Omega: Jaded III

 by Psylocke and Songbirde

The Captain was pacing back and forth like a caged lion, enraged and conflicted with overwhelming emotions.  She did not particularly like the timing of her interruption; aware of the setting she left at Tannia’s suite, knowing any disturbance would be unwelcomed.   Then immediately shook her head to shake unwanted thoughts that came to mind.  Her heart ached at the very thought of Seven being with someone else. 

Janeway was distraught at the turn of events.  No matter how many scenarios she imagined, it came up a disappointing conclusion.  It is going to be impossible to completely protect Seven from the truth.  That the V’ordackians, had a hidden agenda to keep Voyager here all along, and whether Ambassador Tannia may have possibly known about this is, is yet unclear, but either way, Seven will be hurt.

Nevertheless, she was certain that Seven, at the very least, deserved to hear it in person, and not through any crew’s insensitive remarks or, ship’s gossip, especially, not during a staff emergency meeting with the alpha crew, staring at her reaction to this distressing news.  It was still a private matter for Seven and, she wanted her to have a moment to gather her self and give her an opportunity to come to terms with what it meant. 

Then there are the unresolved feelings she has for Seven.  She hoped that these feelings she admitted and revealed to Tannia earlier today did not reach Seven’s ears, because that would make this much more difficult for her.  Seven should remain impartial to what she was going to tell her, not why. 

Saddened by Seven’s situation, her affairs of the heart being so new to her, and love complicated as it is, she was concerned with how Seven will take this.  “No matter what, I will be there for Seven.”  Janeway thought aloud as she paced an imaginary hole in the carpet.  

The ready room’s door opened, giving Seven a direct view of the Captain’s desk and chair, but no Captain.   “It is good to know that you will Captain.  Is there a reason you would say that at this time?”  Seven said quizzically as she stood at the doorway, looking for Captain Janeway. 

Other thoughts just occurred to the Captain.  Can she trust Seven not to reveal Voyager’s findings to Tannia for the sake of her feelings?  What exactly would Seven know about this?  “God.  This is going to be more difficult then I thought.  I should have stayed in my quarters.”

Captain Janeway  relaxed herself on the sofa, looking out one of three large bay windows overlooking the stars, then signaled Seven, to come over and sit beside her on the comfortable couch, her legs crossed.

“Would you like coffee, tea?”  Janeway offered, putting her own mug of coffee down on the small table in front of her.

“I do not require any refreshment at this time, thank you,” Seven said, remembering her social etiquette lessons with the Doctor.

Just as easily, as Captain Janeway motioned to get up, Janeway relaxed herself back into the couch.  Janeway's eyes watched Seven's every movement, studying the young woman’s face, searching for the right words.  It was then, that Janeway noticed the Borg's darkened blonde hair; and realized it was damp and then remembered seeing Tannia with damp hair just a while ago.  Seven stood in front of the Captain for a few seconds, before deciding to sit beside the woman, who appeared to be bothered by something.    Seven noticed a shadow fall on Janeway's features, "Captain, is there a reason why you summoned me to your ready room?"

Janeway looked away for a few seconds, took in a deep breath, exhaling slowly, criss-crossed her fingers creating a teepee.  “It’s best to be direct about Voyager's current situation.” She though to herself.  After another long exhale, Janeway began to inform Seven of current events. Janeway did not falter until she reached the next logical succession of the predicament, Ambassador Tannia.

Seven remained composed, motionless and silent the entire time the Captain spoke.  When Janeway finally paused to get Seven’s reaction, Seven stood and spoke evenly.  "I only see that you are not convinced that Tannia had prior knowledge of her government's intentions.  The rest of the command crew, are they aware of your suspicions?"

“Yes…” Janeway lowered her eyes momentarily

Seven paused.  "You are mistaken, if you believe Tannia failed to act without the utmost integrity.  She would never allow this to happen!" Seven's voice grew louder with her last words.

Silence echoed through the room for what seemed like an eternity.  Janeway stood up, straightening her uniform.  She slowly walked over and gently placed her hand on Seven's shoulder, softly calling out.  "Seven," Kathryn grew more concerned when she thought she heard Seven sniffle.  "Seven, please, let us talk about this." 

"Talk about this?  There is nothing more to say.  You believe she may have some part in this diabolical scheme and you expect me to talk about this.  Tannia would not have deceived me.  She would not!"  Seven was distraught and shrugged her shoulder away from Janeway's hand. 

"Seven I never said she would have deceived you intentionally.  I am sure there is a perfectly sound explanation for this.  True, we are not certain if she was even made aware of her government's plan to keep Voyager for its technology, but it cannot be completely ruled out for now."  Janeway hesitated, searching for the right words, deciding to tone it down. 

Then the most appalling thought occurred to Janeway, Seven's Borg technology is superior.  Any doubt she had about Tannia's innocence vanished.  What better way to get the Borg technology, but to have Seven become involved, fall in love, then remain behind of her own accord.  The Captain remained levelheaded as she proceeded in engaging Seven in a productive discussion. 

"Really Seven, how well do you know Tannia?  You have not known her all that long.  Can you be so certain of her innocence, or are you allowing your heart to lead you?"  Janeway took a step closer. 

"I want to be wrong about her, but she cannot be told what we know until we are prepared and find out more."   Janeway inhaled deeply, waiting for any response. 

"I want to talk to her.  I need to see her and find the truth."  Seven demanded her fisted hands at her sides.

"No, you cannot, not now, perhaps later.  I think you should take some time for yourself. Know that I am here for you Seven, that you are not alone.  I need you to understand what is at stake here and that there will be opportunity for your request when it is appropriate,” Janeway replied with all the compassion and insistence she could muster.  

Seven of Nine turned her head to one side, her face in deep contemplation.  Suddenly the taller, younger woman turned to face the Captain, in perfect Borg-stone manner, void of all emotion, except for the hidden sadness Janeway could detect in her eyes.  Seven nodded and quickly exited the ready room.   

Janeway was exhausted, exasperated but expecting to engage the enemy at all cost.   In her best command stance, she stepped out onto the Bridge to greet her crew back from shore leave, and vowed to herself Voyager would soon be on its way back to the Alpha Quadrant. 

The alpha crew officers occupied the conference room, buzzing with small banter recounting pleasurable experiences on planet V'ordack.  At the conference table, Chief Engineer Lt. B'Elanna Torres sat next to Tom Paris, the ship's Helmsman, followed by Ensign Harry Kim.  On the other side sat a Talaxian, native to the Delta Quadrant, Neelix, and Voyager's sentient hologram medical officer, The Doctor.  Commander Tuvok, head of Security, and First Officer Chakotay sat opposite each other on either side of the Captain's empty chair located at the head of the table.  The chair directly across from the Captain's was absent of its usual occupant, the former Borg drone, Seven of Nine. 

"Does anyone know why shore leave was suddenly suspended without notice?  Are we going to be able to return to the surface soon?  I have one very special lady waiting for me and I felt miserable having to leave her side."  Harry asked in wonder and regret. 

"Everyone will know soon enough, Harry.  Be patient.  The Captain will be here shortly."  Chakotay quickly answered in an insistent tone. 

Chakotay turned his attention to Tuvok who had remained relatively quiet throughout the bubbly conversation. 

Almost instantly, the chatter hushed with the sound of the door hissing open.  Captain Janeway, an attractive, petite, auburn-haired woman, possessed an appearance larger than life, a distinct command presence carried in every fiber of her being.  She swiftly walked to her seat and placed on the table an aluminum cylinder filled with her beverage of choice, hot coffee.  It was apparent that she was in a foul mood, her jaw clenched and her brows furrowed.  Kathryn was careful not to displace her emotions on her crew and began speaking in a manner opposite her demeanor.  

"Welcome back.  I hope you all enjoyed your much deserved and well-earned leave, " she said, forcing a small smile. "Commander Tuvok and his security team have uncovered some disturbing information. Tuvok and Commander Chakotay will brief you on current developments.  We have a grave situation here and I need your utmost attention to detail.  We have more questions than answers."  

Tuvok summarize the recent intelligence gathered, including his analysis preceding this meeting.  The crew seemed a bit surprised and troubled by the account, fidgeting in their chairs and sharing odd looks with each other.  

Then Chakotay began. "This is our present status: All crew is aboard Voyager, safe and accounted for.  With shore leave suddenly suspended, the crew are asking a lot of questions and there is much speculation," He glanced at Harry before continuing. 

"The V'ordackian government is currently unaware of our findings, giving us a marginal edge, but things could get ugly if they suspect we know.  In that event, we will have a level-four force field up to protect Voyager from an attack."  He looked around the room and stopped at B'Elanna.  

"Oh come on.  You can't be serious about this.  The V'ordackians have been nothing but kind and pleasant."  Harry protested shaking his head negatively. 

"I have to agree.  This is a little absurd, if not border-line paranoia."  Tom added, supporting his friend's objections.

The Captain stood halfway up from her seat, leaned forward and placed her knuckle, closed-fisted hands on the table.  She spoke in a low, slow and cool tone.  "No, it is not!  What we do know is what they want and why the want it.  The V'ordackian government wants Voyager for its technology.  What we do not know are the particulars: when and how.  For all we know, this was their intention from the beginning. Since we are scheduled to leave in a few days, these deliberate sabotages were the only indication alerting us to the deception.  It does not leave us much time; they were ready to make their move soon, and can at anytime.  For us to mistake kindness for incorruptibility would be a critical miscalculation."  Janeway sat back down.  "Chakotay proceed."    

"One vital factor we cannot ignore is that Ambassador Tannia could be part of the ploy.  The other, which is highly unlikely, is that the Ambassador is unaware of their intentions.  She assisted Seven with the Jeta project and is familiar with our technology, and has given her government periodic updates on their progress and completion."  Chakotay stated. 

B'Elanna cautiously interrupted.  "So the Jeta project is complete?" 

"Yes, done ahead of schedule."  Chakotay answered. 

"So why can't we just jettison V'ordack and Jeta the hell outta here."  Tom added intolerantly. 

"Hmm.  It's just not that simple Tom.  The holodeck simulations may have worked, but it is not a guarantee that Voyager will take-off and jump-start its estimated 10,000 light years."  B'Elanna added, looked at Janeway and continued to speak, understanding the situation, "Besides, we are not certain about the Ambassador, and she had access to Voyager's systems."  

"Yeah.  If they found out we know, then we are still in danger.  If they decide to strike with their inferior weaponry, we are still significantly out-numbered.  The force field will hold, but eventually..." Harry's voice faded and his face grew dark.  "This is so hard to believe.  How could they think they could even take-on Voyager?"

Janeway answered sympathetically, knowing Harry, a trusting fellow, was having a difficult time accepting the possible truth. But, the Captain did not know about the serious relationship Harry had developed with a V'ordackian woman, nor that he was contemplating staying behind.  "Harry, they will not get Voyager, not without a fight!  The question is not how they could even conceive it but how they will attempt to succeed."  

Chakotay interjected his tattoo above his eye crinkling.  "Captain, there is the matter of the crew's restlessness.  Although we want to keep this under wraps for as long as possible, the crew is going to want some answers, not to mention, the Ambassador will be here at 1800 hours.  She is certain to be requesting why the entire Voyager crew has been called back indefinitely."   

"It should not be a problem for my crew accept these orders, especially after an extended shore leave.  Strangely, it apparently is,” Janeway said aloud as she looked pensively, rubbing her chin with her fingers. 

"Tell the crew not to over-react.  We will be conducting drills and preliminary medical examinations as policy before departures on extended stays.  Chakotay, come up with a few procedures, and Doctor I'm sure you can arrange some basic tests to buy us time."

The doctor crossed his arms and with a sour face, huffed before responding.  "Yes Captain.  Would I be including you in my roster of patients? "   

Janeway gave him a quick glare and ignored him. 

"Captain Janeway, I could put together a quick post-departure get-together to ease the crew's concerns.  Neelix offered. 

"A nice distraction Neelix, but don't over-do it.  Keep it simple."  The Captain smiled. 

Janeway paused.  "Now, I am sure we can all agree that Ambassador Tannia is in some way the key to this.  I will talk to her when she arrives and broach the matter with her without jeopardizing our position.  I don't have to remind you all that this meeting and any further investigations is on a need-to-know basis." 

The Captain sighed before barking orders to her officers.   

"B'Elanna conduct a ship-wide systems check, Harry assist her.  Voyager's systems may have been tampered with or comprised; a systems check may expose clues to their attempts.  Tom study, the best trajectory course out of this system in case we need to make a quick getaway, and familiarize yourself with the Jeta Project.  Seven will work with you.   Tuvok continue intelligence operations and see what else you can dig up.  People we need a viable plan.  I want everyone back with answers in exactly 24 hours.  Got it! Dismissed!"       

The alpha crew vacated the conference room immediately, with the exception of Tuvok who stood beside the door waiting patiently for the room to clear.  "Permission to speak freely Captain?"

"Yes Tuvok.  What is it?"  Janeway responded half-heartedly. 

"Are you alright Captain?  I noticed that during negotiations you seemed distracted.  Is there something more we should know about Ambassador Tannia?"  Tuvok asked calmly.     

Janeway was not surprised that the Vulcan was so perceptive of her behavior, noticing she was slightly of her mark during negotiations, but still she was stunned at how well his deduction lead to the source and heart of the problem, Ambassador Tannia.  With Tuvok, there was very little that went unnoticed, and even less, when it came to getting to the point. 

She sighed.  "I am fi..." Then she decided not to try to cover it up.  "I've been better old friend."  She stood and walked over to him.  "I see that my emotions have become too transparent lately.  I hope that it hasn't been that obvious."

"No, on the contrary, other than Chakotay suspecting something is not right, I believe your secret is safe."  Tuvok said unmoved by Janeway's sudden reaction. 

"My secret?  There is no need to exaggerate.  I do not believe the situation or my concern about the Ambassador is a secret."  Almost in defeat, she blurts out, "Tannia is going to ask Seven to stay with her on V'ordack, and is certain that Seven will accept her offer."  Janeway plopped down on her sofa and stared out at the stars. 

"I see.  Are you certain that Seven may not reconsider, taking into account the discovered developments? There is also the question of Tannia's innocence.  I would not worry so much about Seven or Harry wanting to remain behind due to their recent relationships with the V'ordackians."  Tuvok offered rationally. 

"Harry?"  Janeway asked interestedly. 

"Yes, Harry approached me about how he should discuss the matter with you.  In fact, I told him that his actions might be premature, when examining Voyager's prospect of shaving 10 years of our return to the Alpha Quadrant with the Jetta project enhancing our propulsion systems on initial departure.   We would only be 26 years away from home."  Tuvok almost seemed moved by the word home and the hope it inspired.     

"God.  I can't believe I don't even know what the hell is going on with my crew.  Who else is thinking of jumping ship?"   Janeway asked, irate with her own blindness to events. 

"It appears that there is a significant number of crew members who have developed a bond with V'ordackians.  Based solely on observation, it is not known to what extent and of their intent,” Tuvok answered. 

Janeway, clearly upset, placed her hand on her head, her arm rested on the back of the sofa.  "Well find out.  That is highly unusual behavior among the crew."  Janeway shook her head.  "I take it this is why some of the crew is anxious about the canceled shore leave."

"It seems a logical assumption." Tuvok stated. 

"I noticed Seven was not present at the meeting.  Will Seven reveal our findings to the Ambassador, Captain?"  Tuvok asked.  

Janeway stood up.  "I explained everything to her. She understands she is not to talk to Tannia until further notice." 

Tuvok raised his brows, then lifted his head and nodded before exiting the conference room.   

The Cargo bay was dim, only the green glow of the Borg alcoves illuminated while Seven regenerated. 

Seven had decided to regenerate after her meeting with the Captain left her feeling emotionally, and physically fatigued with all that had happened during the day.  Seven wanted desperately to run into Tannia's arms and forget all that had be said, all that had been implicated, and all that was now threatened.  The had all but directly forbid her to see Tannia.  She could not speak with Tannia until Voyager was in a position to do so.  Anger, hurt and resentment welled up inside her when she thought the Captain did not trust her or her judgment of Tannia.  How harsh to think that Tannia could be capable of such deceit.  She needed to regenerate to restore order before she could decide what to do next. 

The monotone, female computer voice filled the cargo bay.  "Regeneration cycle is now complete." 

The former Borg drone's blue eyes fluttered open and she stepped out off the alcove, over to the Borg-console.  Quickly her hands raced across the console, inputting commands as she searched the data banks, reviewing logs from the first day Ambassador Tannia arrived, as well as any information gathered on the V'ordackians.      

She could not find information regarding the meeting she had not attended.  Seven was not surprised since it would most likely be classified information and decisively omitted, if only temporarily.  Seven deduced the information was being withheld to ensure it remained classified, in the event Voyager's systems were tampered with or exposed.    

She easily found the status of the ship; the crew was undergoing a series of mandated, senseless exercises and suspicious medical tests.  Seven decided to begin her quest for the truth.  In spite of the Captain's orders, she would prove to her that she was wrong about Tannia.  But before then, there were a few things she needed to do. 

Seven noted that Tannia would be arriving on the ship at 1800 hours. Seven received a message from her to meet in the mess hall after her meeting with the Captain.  Seven returned her message, promising to meet her and that she missed her dearly. 

The Borg turned and exited the cargo bay.  Her face defiant, her walk determined, Seven stepped into the turbo lift and headed for sickbay. 

"Mmm.  You seem as fit as a fiddle, Ensign Ayala.   I am pleased you are following the regime I designed for you.  Keep it up."  The Doctor smiled as he closed one of the smaller medical tricorders.   "You can go now."  The Ensign quickly jumped off the bio-bed, as the Doctor turned around to check on his next patient. 

He began to scan Ensign Wildman, his expression went from a thin smile to a serious look, and his eyes grew concerned and confused.  The doctor's reaction went unnoticed by Samantha Wildman as she daydreamed of her new companion while they are holding hands along the V'ordackian shore. 

The Doctor thought that these were rather strange readings, and it had not been the only crewmember experiencing the same odd conditions.  On the contrary, she was been the fiftieth patient to show accelerated heart rate, temperature, perspiration, and influxes of hormonal activity.  Other than that, they were all in perfect health; bright eye, rosy cheeks, an inner glow.   Also peculiar was how they also all had the most inane expression on their face, almost as if they were off somewhere a million light years away. 

"Ensign Wildman, did you happen to run a marathon before stepping into my sick bay?" 

"No Doctor.  Is there anything wrong?"  Samantha Wildman said, concerned. 

"I thought not."  He paused.  "Nothing to be alarmed about really, just slight elevation in some areas." 

"Well, that is unusual, isn't it?"  Wildman asked. 

The doctor smiled weakly. "I would not make too much out of it.  You are safe to leave," and he winked at her.  "I will keep you inform of any findings you should worry about.  Other than that, you are as healthy as a horse."  The doctor enjoyed using old English idioms.   

"Alright."  The Ensign replied, walking to the doors, when Seven and her forbidding posture suddenly startled her.  

Seven greeted her with a short nod of head and proceeded directly toward the doctor. "Doctor, I need to speak with you."  She stopped and clasped her hands behind her back.  

"Yes Seven, how can I help you?  Are you functioning well?"

"I do not require an examination.  I only wish to speak to you about a..." Seven was interrupted by the pesky, persistent chief medical officer. 

"Well I am busy right now, can't this wait? Besides, everyone is required to receive a full check-up and a clear bill of health from moi, so hop on."  He stated matter-of-factly, as he patted the bio-bed. 

Seven was not amused, but thought that if all she had to do was cooperate in order to get his attention then she would go along.  "I will comply."  She said grudgingly. 

"Excellent.  Now this won't hurt a bit, Seven." and the doctor began his examination while Seven resumed talking. 

"I seek your advice on a private matter"

"Ohh," The doctor said curiously, deciding there wasn't much he could do to prevent Seven from talking about what was on her mind.  

"Do you recall when I came to you about my pursuing a relationship?  I am pleased to inform you that it has been quite successful.  I have developed deep and serious feelings for this person."  Seven announced as she sat up in perfect posture.

"I'm sure Janeway will understand this could not be helped He thought to himself.    Perhaps she wouldn't mind it so much that Seven sought his advice, even after he messed up with his first attempt to assist her in her romantic endeavors, because of that nasty bet he agreed to with Tom Paris.

"Well, I think congratulations are in order.  That is absolutely wonderful news, and who may I ask who is this lucky person?"    The doctor stopped to read his scan and narrowed his eyes for a moment. 

"It is Ambassador Tannia." Seven revealed. 

"Ah" He said with surprise, his brows arched upward.  "I see… and exactly how serious are you about her, Seven?"  He was careful not to sound worried or disappointed considering the circumstances surrounding the Ambassador now. He resumed his tests. 

"We have been prepared to bond for sometime and for the first time since my being severed from the collective, I am contemplating remaining behind on V'ordack when Voyager is set to leave."  Seven ended. 

The Doctor didn't know whether to concentrate on his readings or on Seven's disquieting revelation.  He remained composed and carefully probed deeper. 

"This is serious, how certain are you really, of your feelings for her?  I mean, the whole concept of love is a new area for you.  This is an important decision you are making.  Are you prepared to leave Voyager, the crew, and your friends, and the Captain behind, and remain here in the Delta Quadrant?  What of your family waiting for you on Earth, where you can finally be with other humans?" The doctor searched desperately for anything to sway Seven's current consideration. 

"I will never belong on Earth, not as long as I am part Borg.  Tannia will be my new family where we will build a life together.  I love her and everything I feel when I am with her says that it is love, that it is right."  Seven retorted.

"And what is love, Seven?" The doctor asked.   

"Love is what I feel when I am with her, in her arms.  I ache and have a longing to be with her when I am away.  Her absence is unbearable.  When I sense her presence, the pain I feel subsides and I am overwhelmed, flooded with emotions that are so erratic and yet incredible. My body reacts instantly, instinctively to the sight of her.  My heart pounds and my pupils' dilate.   I feel warm, flush and begin to excrete moisture."  Seven described to him. 

The doctor was staring at his medical tricorder and looked up at Seven in disbelief.  "Seven how do you feel when you are separated from her for a long period of time?" 

"I feel incomplete, empty, confused, drained, almost as if withdrawing from a euphoric state."  Seven answered, then added.  "But I become better once in close proximity of her again." 

"That's it!  I think I got it!  Thank you Seven."  The doctor seemed animated. 

"For what?"  Seven sounded confused. 

"For...your description... of love.  A most interesting definition, but I suggest you give your plans some more thought.  It may prove to be premature.  The funny thing about love is it is better when you let it run its course,” He paused, his face growing concerned.  "Just know that there are people aboard Voyager who care for you, depend on you, and will miss you terribly." 

"And what do you think of Ambassador Tannia?  Seven asked watching the doctor's reaction. 

"I think she is a catch.  However, I do not believe we have known her long enough to really say,” The Doctor answered honestly. 

"Well are you finished with the examination?"  Seven asked. 

"Yes, almost."

"Very well, thank you for your time doctor.  You have brought some interesting points to light."  Seven said as she stood up "How did the meeting go earlier today Doctor?"

"It was interesting really.  You missed a lot of... well, now that I think about it, it was not at all that interesting."  He remembered that the crew was not at liberty to discuss the particulars of the meeting and quickly stopped himself, then felt for the Borg as he realized she was fishing for answers.  She almost got him, too. 

"You can go know Seven, and please, think about what I said."  He wondered if Seven knew the Captain was questioning Tannia.  The Doctor was annoyed with himself but then brightened up when he realized there was no harm done and he might have found an answer to the trillion-latinum question of the century. 

The Doctor quickly went to his office to run analysis. 

Ambassador Tannia stood outside of Janeway's door awaiting entry.  "Come"

The door hissed opened and the Ambassador smiled elegantly, walking over to the Captain who stood up behind the desk of her ready room and extended her hand in greeting. 

"Welcome.  Please have a seat." Janeway stayed put, although she would have preferred to sit at the sofa.  She reminded herself that this meeting was to be as professional as possible. 

"Thank you, Captain, for agreeing to see me on such short notice."  Tannia said politely.

Janeway waved her hand in the air.  "Not a problem."

Janeway remembered baring her sole to this woman, how safe and comfortable it had been to speak with her.  She was furious with the Vor'Dackian government and had to suspect Tannia, regardless of how difficult it was to believe she could be capable of the deception.  In spite of everything this female represented, The Captain could not help being drawn to her in some strange way.  It was disconcerting, but she stayed focused. 

"What is the important matter you need to discuss with me, Ambassador?"

Tannia had a brilliant smile and her jade colored eyes sparkled magnificently.  It's no wonder Seven fell deeply for Tannia.  "My government wanted me to inquire as to your sudden decision to suspend shore leave and refuse your crew to return to the surface.  They are naturally concerned that we may have offended you in some way."

"Tell your heads of state there is no reason for concern.  My decision is purely procedure for extended stays.  I hope you understand, I do not warrant the need or make it a habit to explain my actions to anyone, including your government.  However, if it will ease their concerns, you may tell them that I want my crew to go through their exercises and reacquaint themselves with their daily routines and duties.  It is more gratifying to be assured my crew is running at optimum efficiency when we are prepared to leave from here."  

"I see.  I knew it was nothing.  I cannot explain or understand why my government was so upset about your crew returning to their ship.  I thank you for your courtesy.  I cannot agree with you more that there was no need for your explanation.  You are quite kind, Captain Janeway." 

"Your government has been wonderfully generous in its hospitality and its ingenuity.  I should be the one extending thanks to V'ordack,” Janeway began to draw out the Ambassador. 

"Ingenuity, Captain? You are the ones who have the superior technology.  Our contribution was just an examination of all your capabilities and ours."   

Yes, that worked out quite nicely, the Jeta Project.  It was amazing how your scientists derived this incredible idea of enhancing our propulsion system from your existing Hyper jetty.  It would not have been possible otherwise.  I was also pleased that you and Seven were able to finish it ahead of schedule.  But I am curious about something,” The Captain paused, planning her approach. 

"I reviewed the report on the project and found the simulations were successful, but did you and Seven outfit the Delta Flyer with the Jeta system?"   The Captain walked around from her desk and leaned against the hull, staring out at the stars. 

"Yes, as a matter of fact we did."  Tannia answered.

"Excellent!  I want to send it out with a team to check whether it will work on take off.  I wasn't prepared to take a chance before because of the separation between the flyer and the ship.  But the more I think about, the more I believe it to be the best idea."  The Captain waited for any reaction from her. 

"Great!  I was hoping you would give authorization on an actual flight so we could be certain.  When would you like to schedule it?"  The Ambassador was excited at the prospect.  She had the biggest smile and her cat-like eyes danced as she walked over to the Captain.    

It was not at all the reaction the Captain was looking for; she was confused at how genuine Tannia' enthusiasm was.  Perhaps, like any scientists at heart, they would love the opportunity to know how well a project turned out.  The Captain had not realized she was staring at the Ambassador's reflection on the window.  Tannia's outfit was a deep red long, loose fitting gown worn over black pants.  With her strawberry-blonde hair, swept up in the front and hanging loose from behind, and her green eyes, she looked too good to be true.  

"Captain?  Captain?"  Tannia called out to get her attention. 

"I will want to test run the Delta Flyer in the next few days, as soon as I decide the crew and it's preparation."  The Captain stood up and faced Tannia, deciding to take another approach.  "Ambassador, there is so much I don't know about you, your family.  You have never discussed them,” The Captain spoke in a friendly manner. 

Tannia's face grew pensive, "My parents have passed on.  I have an older sister I rarely see because she married into the technology sect. The situation is difficult to explain.  My sister was originally from the ruling sect, but also has an interest in the sciences..."

"Like you, she has a flair for science and technology."  Janeway smiled.

"Yes.  However, when she met her husband she decided to remain with the Sect permanently, so I hardly see her.  All Sects are quite competitive and that makes it difficult with one side not completely trusting the other.  Each one is always looking for an edge.  The Sects do not always see eye-to-eye; I feel that it holds us back from accomplishing more.  I should not really be telling you this, it does not portray a pretty picture of my planet and its people."  Tannia said in shame and sadness. 

"That's okay.  God knows Earth has had its moments; it has not always been a glory.  I had no idea you had a sister.  I have a younger sister back on Earth where we were raised on a farming community in Indiana.  My Father died in an accident and it's just my mother Gretchen and my sister Phoebe and me.   I miss them so much; I cannot wait to see them.  Going home is so important to this crew, I can't let them down, and I won't."  The Captain walked back over to her desk. 

Ambassador Tannia listened and smiled at the Captain.  "I can see you care deeply about your crew.  I believe you will get them home Captain, and you will see your family again,” She paused.  "Seven has family back on Earth and she has not expressed an eagerness to see them."

"Seven was assimilated at six years old, along with her parents.  Seven has never been to Earth and has never met her family.  They know she is alive and doing well.   I'm sure they are waiting to see her return.... but then she may stay behind after all."  The Captain looked down at her desk and caught sight of the vase with the small yellow bloom. 

"I have not asked her yet.  I was hoping to later today.  I hope she accepts, but then a part of me feels as though she would be missing a whole part of her life with her family if she stays.  I would make her very happy."  She hesitated to continue than asked, "Why did you call Seven to meet you at your ready room?"  Tannia asked as she took a seat on the chair across from Janeway. 

Janeway, caught off guard with the question, wondered when she lost control of the conversation.  "That is confidential, official ship business.   As for Seven and her family, that is her decision to make."

"Why do you feel your people do not work better together, and that it prevents your planet from accomplishing more?  Your planet developed the Jeta project.  Look at the technology you do possess.    So how is it that your ideologies interfere with your technology advances?  How is it they are able to have come this far in spite of it?  Maybe you should give them more credit for getting this far." Janeway leaned back in her chair and waited optimistically.

"I suppose I should but my sister and I have seen how opposing sides can a hindrance.  As far as the technology, I believe we have been lucky."  Tannia admitted. 

"Lucky?" Janeway pushed gently.

"Yes.  We have been lucky with a number of incidents of travelers who have come to our planet have decided to stay on V'ordack permanently."  Tannia answered. 

"Your planet is lovely and your people are so wonderful.  How does V'ordack feel about travelers making a home here?"  The Captain asked.

"Travelers are most welcomed, their technology contributions even more so.  All that they have to offer is incorporated, and in that sense, we have been fortunate.  Interestingly enough, some V'ordackians are known for they ability to love and bond successfully.  In a sense we are blessed in that way too."  Tannia smiled at the Captain as her face grew soft thinking about Seven.  "I hope Seven will want to stay with me, even if we have not completely bonded.  Will any of your crew be staying on V'ordack?"  Tannia asked.

"I have a ship filled with people who want to go home and has been through much to get this far.  My crew will not stop now, not when we have traveled this far together.  I don't believe any will really stay, not with the prospect the Jeta project brings."  Janeway crossed her arms, her gut telling her that she was opening up to much to this woman, and yet couldn't help herself.  Something was wrong, Janeway thought to herself, frustrated but feeling a need to continue the conversation to not give anything away to this woman, who she was not sure was friend or foe.

"You feel so strongly about your crew's determination and ability to make it home.  Why do you think they will stop?  Is there something you need to say?"  The Ambassador finally said. 

"Is there?  What are you not saying?"  Janeway pushed 

"What are you implying Captain?"  Tannia was losing her calm, realizing something was wrong but not quite sure of what.  

"I'm not implying anything.  I did not mean to make you uncomfortable about my conviction to get my crew home.  You agreed that my crew will make it and I appreciate your encouragement." 

"I believe you are an example of the kind of leadership my government lacks.  I do not envy your position, but admire your faith in your crew to get home,” Tannia added sincerely. 

"Thank you Ambassador."

"And thank you once again for meeting with me.  Be assured I will inform the sovereignty of what you said.  They will be pleased to know they have no concern for worry,” Tannia nodded and left. 

        Next Chapter: Omega Senses