
BASIC EMOTIONS
<o:p> </o:p>
SUMMARY:<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom and B'Elanna's friends convince them to go on the
honeymoon they never had, but they encounter an old enemy.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Will
they make it back to Voyager and to their children?
<o:p> </o:p>
DISCLAIMER: <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Paramount owns Voyager and its characters. We've only
borrowed the characters to satisfy our own creative urges.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Alera
Lerise and a few assorted other minor characters though are ours
and ours alone (that is unless someone else wants to borrow them
and give us credit).<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Archiving is okay, just e-mail us. Please
keep disclaimer and our names attached.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
RECOGNITION OF APPRECIATION:<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>A very special thanks goes out to
our beta reader Phyllis J. Sutherland for beta reading our text
and to Donna Thelen who had so graciously allowed us to use her
chat page while writing this story.
<o:p> </o:p>
BASIC EMOTIONS
<o:p> </o:p>
9/98
<o:p> </o:p>
by<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>PJ in NH (kelhapam@lr.net)
<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Marleena (blakjak@juno.com)
<o:p> </o:p>
Rated R
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna's head rested against Tom's shoulder as he effortlessly
piloted the shuttle through
space--their destination a little
planet two days away.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Finally the two would be able to go on
their honeymoon, but they were going on it kicking and screaming.
When Voyager discovered the planet three days ago, their friends
and crew mates had insisted that the two take this time away,
saying that if anyone deserved as little rest and relaxation they
did.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>But all Tom and B'Elanna could think about was how much
they were going to miss their two little boys back on Voyager.
<o:p> </o:p>
\*
<o:p> </o:p>
Eight months ago.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Keep on breathing, B'Elanna, that's it," Tom coached, "breathe
in and out, in and out . . ."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Do you think I'm a Telkan cubcat, Tom Paris!?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I know how to . .
. " B'Elanna snarled as another contraction occurred causing her
to stop growling at her husband so that she could try and cope
with the pain.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"It won't be long now B'Elanna, the contractions are only two
minutes apart and you are almost fully dilated." her husband told
her.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"You know
Tom Paris this is all your fault!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>If you had just had
your birth control checked after you became a lizard, then I
wouldn't be lying here right now in pain!" she yelled her eyes
flashing with anger as her hand tightly gripped his.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Easy there, B'Elanna.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I think I'm going to need that hand,"
Tom said trying to cope with the additional pressure that
B'Elanna was exerting on it, praying that she wouldn't break any
bones.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Lt. Torres, please concentrate on the breathing exercises that
you learned in class," the Doctor admonished as another
contraction was about ready to peak.
<o:p> </o:p>
"And you!!" she spat focusing her anger at the EMH.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"You should
have thought to have him checked.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>And you call yourself a Doct .
. . aaaggghh!!!" she screamed as this contraction was even more
powerful than those before.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"So help me if I live through this,
I'll get you both.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You'll never have a moments rest," she
promised.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
The EMH and the expectant father looked at each other and shook
their heads in amazement, since when had B'Elanna Torres allowed
anyone a moments rest, in particular lately?
<o:p> </o:p>
Not long after, the Doctor was happy to report that a head was
visible and extolled her to push.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"It's time, B'Elanna, now you
can push, twin number one is in position."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Come on love," Tom said from his position behind her.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Push."
<o:p> </o:p>
"I--am--pushing--I am---uhhhh---oohmp!" she grimaced as she
supported herself on her elbows and rivulets of sweat poured down
her face.
<o:p> </o:p>
Despite the agony that B'Elanna was going through, the Doctor was
glowing.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It wasn't often that there was a birth on Voyager, and
this time was even more special with twins.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>In fact, this would
only be the second and third children born on the ship since they
entered the Delta Quadrant.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>With another push the first twin
slipped into the hands of the Doctor.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"The first one is a boy,
B'Elanna," the EMT announced as he held the crying infant up for
the mother to see.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Mr.
Paris, if you'd like to come around to
laser-sever the cord, we can get ready for twin number two."
<o:p> </o:p>
A very proud Tom Paris gave his wife a kiss and left her side
briefly as he performed the service.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>After he helped the Doctor
wipe the little boy off, he held him up again for the new mother
to see.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Look B'Elanna one healthy boy, and look at his hair,"
Tom commented with a huge grin on his face.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The baby had a faint
impression on his forehead of the inherited Klingon ridges and a
stock of dark hair.
<o:p> </o:p>
But before B'Elanna could even hold the little tike, another
strong contraction hit.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Well, Lieutenant, it looks like the
other twin is ready," the EMH informed her.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Give me another
push."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna, though she possessed the strength of her Klingon side,
was very weak after having already endured nearly thirty-six
hours of labor, tried in vain to push.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"You have to do better than that, B'Elanna.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I said PUSH!"<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>the
Doctor demanded.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom having put the
first baby in the previously prepared bassinet
knelt down beside his wife.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Come on B'Elanna concentrate and
push, you know I'd do it for you if I could."
<o:p> </o:p>
His wife nodded her head, she knew that was true and it spurred
her into being able to give one final mighty push and twin number
two made its appearance.
<o:p> </o:p>
"That's great. Lieutenants you have another boy," the Doctor said
as Tom joined him again to cut the second umbilical cord.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Now
you can relax a bit. Tom can now give you something for your
discomfort."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Can I see him, Tom?" B'Elanna asked as she collapsed back down
upon the bed.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The new father held up twin number two before he
placed him in a similar bassinet.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The little boy had the same
faint forehead ridges as the first but this one had just wisps of
pale blonde hair.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"They are just beautiful, B'Elanna," he pronounced as he bestowed
several kisses on his smiling wife's face.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Can I hold them?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"Sure you can, just
let the Doctor scan them, and then you can
hold your little miracles.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Okay?"
<o:p> </o:p>
A tired B'Elanna nodded her head and before long each arm held
one of the twins, both of the boys were squalling but it didn't
matter to her, to her they were just perfect.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She kissed the
tops of both heads, one dark and one blonde, as tears of
happiness trickled down her face.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Looking up at her husband she
saw a similar expression mirrored on his face.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"B'Elanna they're beautiful, just like their mother."
<o:p> </o:p>
"I was going to say that they were handsome, just like their
Dad."
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
Four days after the birth.
<o:p> </o:p>
A very proud father and mother brought their babies to the
Captain's quarters for their formal introduction to the highest
ranking Starfleet officer in the Delta Quadrant.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Each holding
one of the children, they entered Janeway's cabin.
<o:p> </o:p>
Kathryn Janeway happily welcomed the family into her living area
and requested that they all sit down.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Tom, B'Elanna, they are beautiful, may
I hold them?" the Captain
asked.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>B'Elanna nodded and motioned for her husband to go first.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Captain, I'd like you to meet Kyle D'Trem Torres-Paris," Tom
announced as he passed Kathryn Janeway the blond-haired,
dark-eyed baby.
<o:p> </o:p>
"And this is our other son," B'Elanna spoke up proudly holding up
the dark-haired boy with the blue eyes, "Lucas K'Lar
Torres-Paris."
<o:p> </o:p>
"They are absolutely gorgeous," the Captain gushed as she ran a
fingertip over Kyle's nose and laughed.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"I'm glad to see that
they have both human and Klingon names."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Well that took a little effort," Tom admitted as he took Kyle
back into his arms and looked at his wife.
<o:p> </o:p>
"But Tom convinced me that it was the 'honorable' thing to do."
B'Elanna smiled handing little Lucas over for the Captain to
hold.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She remembered the argument they had yesterday regarding
the names.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He had convinced her that the Klingon side shouldn't
be ignored, in fact he insisted that it was something to
celebrate.
<o:p> </o:p>
She also reminded him that she would tell the boys about their
heritage, but it was up to them how much of their lineage and
traditions they wanted to explore and follow.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>B'Elanna was not
about to follow her mother's example and have her sons force-fed
all the Klingon rites and ceremonies.
<o:p> </o:p>
It would be something that the four of them would discuss
together, when the time came.
<o:p> </o:p>
Little Lucas grabbed a hold of the Captain's little finger with a
tight grip.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"B'Elanna you've got one strong son here." she said
as the tried to pull her finger away from the little baby's grip.
<o:p> </o:p>
"And the other one is just as strong," Tom boasted.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"I keep
telling her it's the Klingon genes, but she swears the strength
comes from the <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Paris side."
<o:p> </o:p>
"I sure it's a combination of the two," Janeway said
diplomatically with a smile at little Lucas.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She glanced up to
see two of the happiest and proudest people she had ever seen.
If anyone of the ship deserved to be happy, it was this pair, she
thought.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I hope I can keep them all safe and sound until we get
home.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
A great deal of time and energy was expended daily taking care of
the twins.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Planning ahead of time, even before the babies were
born, Tom and B'Elanna had decided to work different shifts in
order to watch their sons.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Both had admitted that they were
reluctant to allow anyone else to care for them, except when it
was absolutely necessary.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
The typical day usually entailed Tom rising early, changing the
boys, and preparing bottles, while B'Elanna took the opportunity
to shower and change, before Tom had to report to duty.
<o:p> </o:p>
Later in the morning after Tom left for the Bridge, B'Elanna
would happily look after the two rambunctious boys.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She'd play
with them, feed them, and settle them down for naps in the
afternoon.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>One of her favorite activities was taking them for
long walks on the holodeck or around the ship using the beautiful
stroller that the Captain and Chakotay had given them.
<o:p> </o:p>
Late in the afternoon
when Tom was finished with his shift, he'd
rush to the mess hall eat quickly and hurry back to their cabin
so B'Elanna could report to Engineering.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>By <st1:time minute="0" hour="0" w:st="on">midnight</st1:time>, B'Elanna
would quietly enter the cabin, usually to find that her three men
were already asleep.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It wasn't unusual though, especially during
the first few months, that she'd come home and see her husband
rocking both of his sons while he sang them to sleep.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Those were
special little moments she would always remember, it made her
reflect back over their relationship and back to a time when Tom
was in such despair that he had tried to end his life, not once.
but twice.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It now seemed such a long time ago when she watched
him with his boys, or his little Flyboys as he liked to call
them.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They were a happy family -- tired -- but happy.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
"...and then Alera turned to me and said 'Harry I'm the one with
the telepathic capabilities, so how do you always know what I'm
thinking?'"<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Harry finished the story with a laugh and Joe Carey
joined him
until Joe's attention was diverted by a familiar tall
figure sprinting out of the Mess Hall.
<o:p> </o:p>
"There he goes again," the Joe remarked.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Looks like he's
running late."
<o:p> </o:p>
Harry didn't even need to be told who Joe was talking about.
"You know, I can't remember the last time I've had a meal with
either Tom or B'Elanna.
<o:p> </o:p>
All they ever do is rush here and there, they never have anytime
for anything but work and the boys," Harry shook his head sadly,
he missed his friends.
<o:p> </o:p>
Alera and the Captain, noticing the two men at the table, made
their way over to join them.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"So what are you two talking
about?" the Captain asked, as she sat down next to Carey and
Alera took a seat next to her fiance.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Oh about Tom and B'Elanna how they never seem to have any time
for each other.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The twins certainly require a lot of attention."
Joe informed the ladies.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"It's a wonder that they don't fall asleep on their feet," Harry
added after he gave Alera, a kiss on
her cheek.
<o:p> </o:p>
Joe leaned forward so that only the group could hear what he was
about to say.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Well, actually I caught B'Elanna asleep on her
desk last week. I don't ever remember seeing her so tired."
<o:p> </o:p>
Janeway chewed her first forkful of the colorful meal on her
plate in contemplation before she responded.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Thankfully Tom
hasn't fallen asleep but he certainly looks exhausted.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I wish
there was something we could do."
<o:p> </o:p>
Alera being somewhat shy was a little hesitant to speak up, in
particular in front of the Captain, but Harry could tell that
there was something on her mind.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"What is it, Alera?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Do you
have something to say?"
<o:p> </o:p>
The half-Betazoid blessed him with a little embarrassed smile
that he just adored.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"I keep on telling you, Harry, I'm the
telepath.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>How do you always know what I'm thinking?"<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Harry chuckled remembering his previous conversation with Joe.
"I guess I was right again, so what were you going to say?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"Well just that the
two of them have been married, oh about a
year, and they still haven't taken a honeymoon. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It would be nice if
they could have some time to themselves without the babies.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Just
so they could get some rest and enjoy each other without having
to worry about whether the boys needed changing or feeding."
<o:p> </o:p>
Janeway's eyes twinkled with enthusiasm. "What a wonderful idea."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Do you think they'd go for it?" Joe asked. "They hate to ask
anyone to look after Lucas and Kyle."
<o:p> </o:p>
"But they are such good little boys, never any trouble," Janeway
told the group.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Just two weeks ago Chakotay and I looked after
them and they were just little angels--never a fuss."
<o:p> </o:p>
"That's true," Joe said smiling. "Tom and B'Elanna's little
Flyboys are great kids, they even went through teething without
much of a fuss--must be the Klingon genes.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Samantha and I looked
after them, oh about a month ago when Tom had to assist B'Elanna
in Engineering, they even went to bed without
an argument.
They're great kids, don't you think so Harry?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"Sure, but I haven't had the opportunity to look after them, I'm
always either on B'Elanna's shift or Tom's, but I'm sure I'll, or
we," the ensign said looking at Ensign Lerise," will look after
them sooner or later."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Well why not sooner?" the Captain suggested, grasping the
opportunity that was presented.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"I'd be willing to give both of
you some time off to look after the boys, that is if we could get
the parents to take a few days for themselves.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Now it seems to
me between the four of us could come up with a holoprogram that
would be appropriate," she added with a glimmer in her eye.
<o:p> </o:p>
"That is if we could keep them in it," Alera added.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"I think
you'd have to put a security lock on the holodeck to keep
them inside, if you wanted to make them take a honeymoon on
Voyager."
<o:p> </o:p>
Harry's face lit up.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Captain, I think I might have an idea."
<o:p> </o:p>
"I'm listening, Ensign."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Yesterday
when we were searching for more galacite, before we
found that asteroid field that had a wealth of the mineral, we
came across a group of planets about eight light years away.
While they weren't any use to us after we found the asteroids,
there were a couple of M-class planets that might be ideal for a
little vacation."
<o:p> </o:p>
"That's a wonderful idea Harry, while we mine for minerals on the
asteroids, B'Elanna and Tom can take a shuttle down to one of the
planets and have a little time for themselves," the Captain
remarked. "And you and Alera can babysit."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Well--I--uh," Harry stammered.
<o:p> </o:p>
Janeway laughed at the young man's expression, it was as if some
one told him he had to look after a Kazon warrior for a week not
two little babies.
<o:p> </o:p>
"You'll do fine, Harry.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You two are the perfect choice.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>While
we are mining the asteroid, you two would have had little to do
anyway. And besides, if you two need any help, there are a lot of
people on Voyager willing to give you a hand."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Sounds
like we have a plan, Captain," Carey concurred, "but how
can we convince them to go?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"Just leave that to me, Joe.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I think I know just how to get them
to go.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>And if my idea doesn't work, I can just pull rank and
order them to go."
<o:p> </o:p>
The four dissolved into loud laughter which caused the other
occupants of the mess hall to wonder what was going on.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom holding Lucas and B'Elanna holding Kyle sat side by side on a
biobed in Sickbay as the Doctor scanned all four of them with the
medical tricorder.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Occasionally, the Doctor would shake his head
or say just 'ah huh, ah huh' as he reviewed the information being
processed by the hand-held device.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna took notice of the Doctor's actions and with each
passing moment looked more and more worried and frustrated.
"Doctor, quit saying 'ah huh, ah huh' and tell us what's wrong
with the boys." she demanded clearly having reached the limit of
what little patience she possessed.
<o:p> </o:p>
The Doctor looked up at
the family with a look of incredulousness
on his face.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Why nothing is wrong with Kyle and Lucas.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They
are perfectly healthy."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Then why were we asked to come down here?" Tom asked reflecting
his wife's impatience.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Actually, the Captain asked you to come down.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She's been
concerned about you and B'Elanna and she's not alone.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I've had a
number of people comment to me during the last few months about
how tired you appear to be and how you two never have any time
for yourselves," the EMH explained as he sat down on the chair in
front of the four and clasped his hands in front of himself
resting his elbows on his knees.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"And it was a good thing she
did too."
<o:p> </o:p>
"What do you mean?" Tom asked as he looked from the Doctor to his
wife.
<o:p> </o:p>
"What I mean is you two are clearly showing signs of exhaustion
in fact . . ." the EMH started to say but was interrupted when
Harry Kim barged into the Sickbay rubbing his forehead.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Mr. Kim
is there something I
can do for you?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"Just a headache, Doc.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I came down to get a analgesic," he
explained as he headed over to the cabinet that contained the
routine first aid supplies and finding the medicine proceeded to
take it.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Go ahead, Doctor," B'Elanna insisted not wanting to wait,
"anything you can say to us, you can say in front of Harry."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom
nodded his head agreeing with his wife's statement.
<o:p> </o:p>
"All right, I was going to ask you when was the last time either
of you slept for more than five hours? Or when was the last time
you two have been together, not counting work, without your
children."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom and B'Elanna shared a knowing look before Tom responded.
"Well I...you know we've. . ."
<o:p> </o:p>
Harry piped up behind them.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"They haven't.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I believe that's
what he's trying to say." B'Elanna shot Harry a death glare that
usually struck fear in her staff, but Harry was too interested in
his friends' health to be affected for a change.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Just what
I thought," the EMH said. "I'm going to recommend that
you two take some time off.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I'm prescribing both of you take a
vacation by yourselves away from Voyager without the boys."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Uhh, Doc," Tom whined as he shifted Lucas from his right arm to
his left.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"you've got to be kidding.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We'll be fine."
<o:p> </o:p>
Ensign Kim approached the family his arms crossed over his chest,
trying his best to look formidable. "Tom, it's all set, the
shuttle is prepped and packed all ready for you two to finally
take that honeymoon you've never been on," Harry explained.
<o:p> </o:p>
"What's this, a conspiracy?" B'Elanna asked as she looked at Harry
and then back to the Doctor.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Nope, it's just your friends and crewmates telling you to take
some time off for yourselves before you both collapse," Harry
added.
<o:p> </o:p>
"And who are you, the new Doctor?" the pilot argued.
<o:p> </o:p>
"No he is NOT the new Doctor," the EMH piped up, "but his
prognosis is remarkably accurate
for a layperson.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>According to
the medical scan, it's a wonder you two function as well as you
have been.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Now Mr. Kim here has found a lovely little planet for
you to explore on a honeymoon and before either of you say
anything about not going, I have the authority to order you to go
with the Captain's blessing."
<o:p> </o:p>
"But what about . . . ," B'Elanna started to say.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Alera and I will look after Kyle and Lucas," Harry answered
correctly anticipating her question.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Who better to look after
them than your friend and a Betazoid telepath?"
<o:p> </o:p>
The logic was infallible.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom and B'Elanna knew that this had
been planned most carefully, they had no choice but to take a
honeymoon.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
\*
<o:p> </o:p>
A few hours later Tom and B'Elanna were packing away a few
personal belongings including holopictures of the twins as Uncle
Harry and Aunt Alera sat in the living area playing with their
little honorary nephews.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Even though the parents tried to drag
their feet, eventually the packing was
done and they found
themselves out in their living area taking turns holding the two
boys as they said their goodbyes.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They admonished the boys to be
good for their aunt and uncle and showered them with kisses
before they handed them back over to the two ensigns.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Now you've got our list of instructions?" B'Elanna asked
worriedly.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Yes, it's right here," Harry said as he held up the datapadd
with his free hand.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Remember, Lucas can't stand apple sauce and for some reason we
can't fathom Kyle loves pureed leola root," Tom told them as he
rolled his eyes at the mere mention of the vegetable.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"And they both love to be read to, I left the children's
holobooks right on the table by their cribs," B'Elanna added.
<o:p> </o:p>
"And Alera, don't forget, sometimes to get them to burp you have
to hold them . . .ah I'll show. . ." Tom started to say as he put
his bag down on the floor and reached for Kyle to demonstrate.
<o:p> </o:p>
Harry laughed.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"We'll be fine, Tom.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Don't worry about a thing.
After all what could possibly go wrong? Besides Alera should be able
to tell what's going on inside their little heads."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Is that true?" B'Elanna asked the Betazoid.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Well, yes and no, their little minds aren't processing complex
thoughts yet, but I should be able to pick up on basic emotions,
whether they are happy or sad--things like that," she explained
trying to sound very confident though inside she was a little
unsure of how much she could understand the boys' thoughts as she
had never been around very many babies.
<o:p> </o:p>
Feeling somewhat relieved, Tom and B'Elanna nodded their heads in
agreement and giving their sons one more kiss, hug, and a wave
goodbye, left the cabin.
<o:p> </o:p>
"They'll be okay," Harry said to Alera after the door closed,
when he noticed her concerned expression.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"I'm sure they will be once they get going, but I can sense that
they feel that they are abandoning them," she replied a bit
worriedly.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Come
on, 'Lera, no bad thoughts, Harry said with a grin.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Let's
get their stroller and take these two for a walk on the holodeck,
I created a little program last night that I think they'll like.
It's based on a little park that my mother and father used to
take me to when I was a little kid.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Out in the corridor, Tom and B'Elanna walked hand in hand slowly
toward the nearest turbolift.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"I just hate leaving them, Tom."
B'Elanna said as the turbolift door slid open and they stepped
inside.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Our babies.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We've never left them before," she said in
a soft voice as the lift descended towards the shuttlebay.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom was thinking the same thing and looked over at his beautiful
wife to see that her eyes were becoming heavy with unshed tears
as she bit her lower lip.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Computer halt turbolift," he ordered as he put their bag on the
floor.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Come here, B'Elanna, he said as he opened his arms to
welcome her into his embrace.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He held her as the tears spilled,
stroking her hair, kissing
the top of her head, until she finally
pulled away brushing away the wetness from her cheeks.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"I'm sorry, Tom.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I don't know what's come over me."
<o:p> </o:p>
"I do, you miss our little Flyboys already, I know that's how I
feel," he said soothingly.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Then why do we have to go if we are going to be miserable?"
<o:p> </o:p>
The pilot cupped her face in his hands and gently kissed her on
the lips.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Because we need to get away and rest, and remember for a little
while how it was when it was just us.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Our friends could see that
we needed to get away, but we couldn't.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I don't know, maybe
because we were too close to the situation, but from their
vantage point they could tell.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They care about us and Lucas and
Kyle, B'Elanna, they aren't doing this to be cruel."
<o:p> </o:p>
"I know," she admitted.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"I'm sure when I get back I'll be glad
we went, but now the boys are all I can think of."
<o:p> </o:p>
"So are you ready?" her husband asked.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna nodded and gave him
a small, brave smile.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Computer
resume."
<o:p> </o:p>
And the turbolift descended again towards its destination.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
The door of the turbolift slid behind them as they entered the
corridor. They walked down the hall toward Shuttlebay One.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I can't believe we were ordered to do this," Torres griped as
she walked beside her husband.
<o:p> </o:p>
"You have to admit we do need a break," <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Paris mentioned.
<o:p> </o:p>
Torres shook her head, "We were just fine, Tom. We don't need
this vacation."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom stifled a grin, "I heard you fell asleep in Engineering,
B'Elanna. Most of the ship is talking about it. I almost fell
asleep at the <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Conn</st1:state> yesterday. We definitely could use this
vacation. I do feel apprehensive about leaving the kids, though."
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna stopped then, her eyes wide. Several thoughts ran
through her mind, but one stood apart. A vision of their children
crying and sickly crept into her mind.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Tom, the babies. We have to get back to them!"
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna
spun around and ran back down the hall toward the
turbolift. Tom caught up to her in no time. He grabbed her arms
to stop her.
<o:p> </o:p>
"B'Elanna, they'll be fine. Harry and Alera will take good care
of them. Besides, it will be good practice for them."
<o:p> </o:p>
His wife turned around to see a mischievous grin spread across
<st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Paris' face. She allowed a similar smile to fall on her face as
well.
<o:p> </o:p>
"So you think it would do them some good?" she asked, running her
hands over his chest.
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom nodded, "And this honeymoon will be good for us as well."
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna's smile grew wider and she nodded. The two then
continued down the corridor.
<o:p> </o:p>
They walked toward the shuttlebay. With each step, the two became
more anxious. They kept telling themselves and each other that
they needed this vacation. When the doors to the shuttlebay
opened, they were ready for the trip.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Looks like they finally showed up," Chakotay said with a smirk,
"I was sure they were going to be dragged in here kicking and
screaming."
<o:p> </o:p>
Paris and Torres looked at each other and rolled their eyes.
<o:p> </o:p>
"You weren't far from the truth," Tom said, walking toward the
Commander and Captain, "B'Elanna almost turned back around."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Tom!" B'Elanna growled as she hit him on the arm.
<o:p> </o:p>
Chakotay and Janeway smiled at <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Paris' mock hurt expression.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"I
know you will enjoy your honeymoon," Janeway stated, "We'll meet
up with you in a few days. So enjoy."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom and B'Elanna smiled and embraced their respective commanders.
Chakotay then shook <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Paris' hand as Janeway hugged Torres.
<o:p> </o:p>
"See you two soon," the Captain said, holding back her happy
tears.
<o:p> </o:p>
The two nodded again and went to their shuttle. The door slid
open and the two stepped in. A gasp of surprise was heard from
inside.
<o:p> </o:p>
"It's beautiful," Torres said, staring before her in awe.
<o:p> </o:p>
"We thought you'd like it," Janeway's voice came to them, "Lt.
Carey, Harry, and I worked
quite hard on it. Carey will be eating
Neelix' cooking for months now after using all of his replicator credits."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Thanks," Tom breathed.
<o:p> </o:p>
Before the couple was a large bed for two. The covers were made
of red satin, and the pillows were shaped like hearts. On both
sides of the bed were pink and white candles. It gave the shuttle
a romantic glow. The soft light<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>gave the couple a warm feeling
inside. They stood close together, their arms wrapped around the
other's waist.
<o:p> </o:p>
"You know, I think I'm glad we waited this long to go on our
honeymoon," Tom remarked, stunned at the renovated shuttle
interior.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna said nothing as tears once again rolled down her face.
She had never felt more loved and appreciated in her life.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Let's get on our way," B'Elanna finally said, "I don't want to
leave Joe with my engines for too long."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Get going you two," Janeway said, "Don't worry about your
engines,<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>B'Elanna. I'll make sure Carey doesn't damage them too
much while you're gone."
<o:p> </o:p>
The shuttle's door shut as Tom sat in the pilot's chair. B'Elanna
blew out the candles and sat beside him, staring at the bed in
the back of the craft. Tom watched her from the corner of his eye
as he went through the check list.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Don't worry, B'Elanna," he mentioned, "we'll get to use it
soon."
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna stared at him darkly, but her eyes sparkled, "We better,
Helmboy. I want this honeymoon to be memorable."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom smiled impishly, "Oh, it will. Trust me."
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna rolled her eyes as they exited the shuttlebay and headed
for the planet.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
With B'Elanna's head resting on Tom's shoulder the pair sat at
the helm watching the stars streak by on their way to their
destination.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Do you hear that B'Elanna?" Tom asked in a soft voice after a
while, cocking his head to one side.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna didn't move her head from his shoulder but listened
intently.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"No, I don't.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Why, what is it?"
she asked.
<o:p> </o:p>
"If you listen very, very carefully 'Lanna you'll hear silence,
It's been a long time hasn't it?" he asked as he stroked the
softness of her cheek with his fingertips.
<o:p> </o:p>
"A very long time, Tom.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Actually it is kind of nice.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I'm not
saying I don't miss the boys, but I had forgotten how wonderful
it was to experience peace and quiet and not to have to do
anything."
<o:p> </o:p>
"I know, I feel the same way."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom bent down and kissed her as
his fingers tap danced over the control panel. "I've activated
the scanners, and according to my readings there isn't anybody
but Voyager within scanning range, I'm going to put the scanners
in security mode to alert us if anyone does show up and initiate
the autopilot.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It's time for bed, my dear."
<o:p> </o:p>
That first night they undressed, lit the candles, and slipped in
under the cool satin sheets only to find that under the pillows,
several small packages wrapped in silver paper and tied up with
blue bows had been hidden.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>One contained chocolate truffles from
the Captain, another pictures of the twins from Harry and Alera,
still another massage oil from the Delaney sisters, and the last
one four dermal regenerators and two osteo simulators from the
Doctor with an enclosed message telling them to beware of
increased hormonal activity, but if they couldn't, please to use
these with his compliments.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Everyone has been so kind, Tom," B'Elanna said as she removed
one of the bottles of citrus-scented massage oil from the box and
removed the cap to smell the contents.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom smiled up at her and rolled over on his stomach.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Are you
going to smell that all night, or are you going to use it?" he
asked.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Oh definitely use it," his wife answered with a purr to her
voice.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She dribbled the oil over his back and started to massage
it in with her strong hands.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
The next day started with the two spending a luxurious lazy
morning in bed.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They'd sleep, make love, talk, eat, and then
start all over again.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
That night Tom
re-checked the autopilot and set the alarm to
alert them before they reached orbit.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
<<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
The sound of the alarm woke the groggy pilot and his wife from a
deep sleep. As B'Elanna opened her eyes and stretched, Tom
slipped unintentionally from under the red satin sheets and
landed with a loud thump on the deck of the shuttle.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"That's some exit," B'Elanna commented as she tried to refrain
from giggling.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Are you hurt?"
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom pulled himself up and rubbed the point of contact -- his
bottom.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Just my um pride, vixen."
<o:p> </o:p>
<<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Damn," he muttered as he grabbed his briefs and hurriedly tried
to pull them on as he made his way to the front of the shuttle,
first jumping on one foot and then the other until the shorts
were finally in position and he was finally sitting at the helm.
<o:p> </o:p>
Sitting on the bed with the red sheets wrapped around her
bronzed, nude body, B'Elanna laughed until tears ran down her
cheeks.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Why are you bothering putting those on?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Afraid some
alien might see you in all your glory?
<o:p> </o:p>
"So you thought that was funny, huh?" the pilot finally asked
after he completed the programming so that the shuttle could
achieve orbit.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna could only nod her head, speech was impossible at the
present moment as all she could do was laugh.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Well maybe you think this is funny, he said and he sprang out of
his seat with a wicked grin on his face and threw himself back on
the bed and began to tickle his lovely wife.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Come on love,
let's get dressed and land this shuttle and see what idyllic
piece of paradise Harry found for us?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"Okay, but can't we...ah...\*play\* a little bit first?," she
asked as she approached him on hands and knees, growling.
<o:p> </o:p>
"You read my mind, wife.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Take me I'm yours!"
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna needed no further invitation.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
The sun shining down upon the planet, caused the couple to blink
against the brightness. They shielded their eyes against the
light
when their eyes still hadn't adjusted.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Sure is bright here," Tom stated the obvious.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna just nodded as she looked over the surroundings. The
sky was a pale orange and the grass had a bluish tint. The trees
seemed to go on forever.
<o:p> </o:p>
"It's beautiful, Tom," the half-Klingon breathed, "Harry picked a
wonderful planet for our honeymoon."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom smiled as he wrapped his left arm around his wife. Pulling
her closer to him, he kissed the top of her head.
<o:p> </o:p>
"It sure is, B'Elanna. We should have Harry pick out our vacation
spots more often."
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna giggled as she put her arms around her husband's waist.
She rubbed her cheek against his chest breathing in his familiar
scent.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Do you have anything planned, Tom?" B'Elanna asked, a smile in
her voice.
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom smiled, "I have a picnic planned, but first I want to explore
this place."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Sounds wonderful. When?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"How about now?"
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna looked up at
him to see his blue eyes sparkling with an
excited fire. Their fire excited her as well, she smiled at him
and nodded.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Good. I'll get the food," Tom said, letting her go and entering
the shuttle.
<o:p> </o:p>
Ten minutes later, the couple, dressed in shorts and shirts were
walking through the forest. Bird songs sounded through the air,
bringing a sense of spring to the couple. A slight breeze ruffled
their hair. Tom breathed in the fresh air and smiled.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Nice to be breathing actual air," he remarked.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna nodded, "I bet you're already getting an idea for
another holoprogram."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom chuckled, "You know me so well, B'Elanna."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The two laughed
as they walked arm in arm deeper into the woods.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>A few minutes
later, the couple came across a clearing filled with wildflowers.
The slight breeze caused the flowers to sway as if they were the
waves of an ocean.
<o:p> </o:p>
"It's perfect," <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Paris said enjoying the view. He then turned to
B'Elanna and asked, "Shall we?"
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna
looked at him, smiling. She nodded as she slid her arm
into his. The two then walked into the clearing.
<o:p> </o:p>
"This looks like a good spot," Tom announced, looking around.
They were in the middle of the clearing, surrounded by trees.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna helped her husband spread the blanket on the living
carpet of flowers. Then sat down beside him as he opened the
basket. She watched him as he brought forth a bottle of wine,
French bread, and grapes.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Pretending we're in France, Tom?" Torres asked, smiling.
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom returned the smile, "Why not? Actually, though I don't care
where I am as long as it's with you."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>B'Elanna blushed then
said, "You really do talk too much, <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Paris."
<o:p> </o:p>
"And you never could take a compliment, Torres."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Touche."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom smiled then opened the wine. He poured it into two glasses,
handing one to B'Elanna.
<o:p> </o:p>
"To us," he said, his eyes dark with seriousness.
<o:p> </o:p>
"To us," B'Elanna answered as she touched
his glass to his. She
then added, "And to our future together."
<o:p> </o:p>
"To our future together," Tom agreed.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The two stared into each
other's eyes as they sipped the wine.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom then drew a knife and
brought out two plates. He sliced the bread then placed some
pieces on the two plates.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He picked up a grape and leaned toward
her.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>B'Elanna opened her mouth and took the fruit offering.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She
closed her eyes as she chewed savoring the taste.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom popped a
grape into his mouth as he watched her eat. When she opened her
eyes, he smiled.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Delicious," B'Elanna whispered.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Try the bread," Tom suggested as he picked up a slice. She
followed suit.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Tom," B'Elanna began a moment later, "Why did you take so long
to tell me you loved me? Why didn't you say it when you knew you
did?"
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom put the glass he held down in his lap, and stared at it. \*So
we're back to this, huh?\* He thought.
<o:p> </o:p>
He took a deep breath and looked at her, \*Might as well tell
her.\* "I
thought you wouldn't believe me.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I thought you would
just think of my reputation and believe I wanted only one
thing."
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna looked at her glass. He was right to a point.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She had
known, even before she became attracted to him, that he would
never take advantage of her--that he just liked to flirt and
nothing else.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Tom, you should have at least tried," she mentioned, "I never
believed your reputation. I knew there was more to you than
that."
<o:p> </o:p>
He smiled, "I know.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I'm just glad we're together now.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I love
you so much."
<o:p> </o:p>
"I love you too, Tom."
<o:p> </o:p>
The two gazed at each other, the wind blowing through their
hair.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Then leaning over their food, they kissed passionately.
Their tongues danced a duet as each ran their hands through
the other's hair.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna ran her hands under <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Paris' shirt, running them over his
chest.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Then breaking the kiss, she removed his shirt.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Then
slipped her shirt up and over her head, smiling when Tom
growled.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He's getting pretty good at growling, she mused.
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom embraced her again as he gently pushed her down on the
blanket.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He was glad that she had decided against wearing a bra.
He hated trying to take those things off.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It always seemed to
slow down the passion, though he had to admit not by much.
<o:p> </o:p>
He kissed and nipped his way down her body.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She moaned his name
as she dug her fingers into his unruly hair.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He slowly stripped
her shorts and underwear off then he went back to devouring her
mouth.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna's hands ran up and down his back as she deepened the
kiss.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>When their lips parted she nipped his cheek, then his
neck.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She gasped as his tongue flicked into her left ear.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
"Thomas!" She shouted as he giggled.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Sorry, couldn't resist."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Pig," she teased.
<o:p> </o:p>
"You love me anyway."
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna was about to say something, but he began to suckle her
breasts.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Moaning, she arched her back toward his mouth;
giving more of herself to him.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Tom," she moaned as he went from
one
breast to the other.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She growled after a while, telling him
to quit stalling.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He answered her by spreading her legs apart
and sliding into her.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Making a sound between a moan and a gasp.
She wrapped her legs around his waist and flipped him over,
breaking the connection.
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom stared up at her, his blue eyes dark with arousal.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He placed
his hands on her hips as she bent over him.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She kissed and
nipped his chest, causing him to moan with pleasure.
<o:p> </o:p>
"B'Elanna," he moaned closing his eyes, as she licked his chest.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna rose to a sitting position and smiled at him.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>His eyes
opened, but closed again as she brought herself down over him.
Moaning his name she began to rock forward.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom thrust up
to meet her movements as they found their familiar rhythm.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
Their pace increased as they moaned each other's name.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>B'Elanna
placed her hands on his chest as she furiously rocked her hips
forward.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Her head tilted back as <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Paris' thrusts came faster.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
"Oh, Tom," she breathed as she felt herself
nearing the edge.
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom then sat up and wrapped his arms around her.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Burying his
face in her neck as he thrust deeper inside her.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He heard
B'Elanna growl as she met his movements.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Their breathing became
quicker.
<o:p> </o:p>
Suddenly, B'Elanna cried out, pulling <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Paris' blonde hair as she
deliriously fell over the edge.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom thrust one last time and
released into her.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>His cry was a mixture of both pain and
pleasure.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom fell back onto the blanket, bringing B'Elanna with
him. As she came back down to earth, she noticed the feel of his
warm arms wrapped around her. She snuggled closer to him as she
sighed.
<o:p> </o:p>
"You pulled my hair when you climaxed," Tom mentioned, sleepily.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Sorry," B'Elanna answered, a smile playing on her lips, "It must
of hurt."
<o:p> </o:p>
"I'll live," he said as he yawned. "Want to stay here or go back to the shuttle?"
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna rubbed her cheek against his chest as her right hand
moved down his arm.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She then sat up, and looked at him.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>His
eyes were
clear and bright and wanted an answer.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She smiled and
gave him one.
<o:p> </o:p>
"If you think you can walk, we can go back to the shuttle."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom smiled then sat up.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He wrapped his arms around her as he
kissed her forehead.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I can walk, Lanna.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Just lead the way."
<o:p> </o:p>
She laughed then stood to get dressed.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He followed suit.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>After
picking up the blanket and placing the dishes and food back into
the basket, the couple headed for the shuttle.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
"I've spotted a craft on the surface," Qret informed his leader
as his large hands adjusted a series of knobs.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Excellent!" Lodar exclaimed as he approached the junior officer
from behind.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Show me."
<o:p> </o:p>
Qret fine-tuned the visual display and a small blip appeared on
the screen in front of him.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"By the mass of the vessel, I'd say
it was only equipped to handle a small number--possibly four or
five at the best, depending on the type of species."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Good work.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Prepare to land,"
the Commander announced with a
feral grin to the other two members of his small crew.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Qret,
evaluate the planet for viable options, and make it interesting,
it's been a long time--too long," Lodar ordered with a sinister
laugh.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom and B'Elanna holding hands began their walk back along the
path to the shuttle or their 'honeymoon hotel' as they had
started to call it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>B'Elanna carried the blanket and Tom held
the picnic basket.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They would take turns, one pulling the other
along and vice a versa, occasionally laughing and kissing each
other as they made their way back.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom dropped the basket at one
point, closing his eyes he pulled his wife into an embrace. They
shared a deep kiss, which left them both breathless.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom opened
his eyes but before he could focus he felt himself and B'Elanna
enveloped by a transporter beam.
<o:p> </o:p>
When the beam finally deposited them, they found themselves
standing together in a small bare gray room. Pipes ran along the
ceiling next to small lights that provided only
minimum light.
From some of the larger pipes a type of steam escaped every so
often. Leaking from other smaller pipes was a odoriferous oily
substance which dripped onto the deck where they stood.
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom held on to his wife tightly and she did the same to him.
Neither was about to let go of the other until questions had been
asked.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Tom, what happened?" B'Elanna asked as she looked around at
their surroundings.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I don't know B'Elanna, but I don't have to tell you I don't like
it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>And for some strange reason, something about this place
seems familiar," he said as he looked up and around in the poor
light, trying to determined what is was about this place made him
feel that he had experienced this before.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Well whatever it is," B'Elanna said scrunching her nose. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"This
place sure does stink."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"You can say that again.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>That's it!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>That's what's familiar--the
smell."
<o:p> </o:p>
"The smell?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"Yep, now if only I could remember where it was
I smelled it . .
."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom's sentence was interrupted by the sound of a door
creaking open.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Instinctively, he positioned his wife behind him
for her protection.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>There in the dim light on the other side of
the room, two very tall, large figures approached them.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"We found you again, Voyager," one of the two spoke.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
As they neared the center of the room where the light was
somewhat better. Tom knew why the smell seemed so familiar to
him.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Before them stood two heavily armed Hirogen. The smell
was the same odor he noticed when he had boarded their ship
over a year ago.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It was the smell of the fluid that had filled
that cylinder on their bridge. The fluid that they had been
unable to determine the purpose of. Whether it served to prepare
the relics for display or if it was some type of soup meant for
consumption. The memory accompanied by the smell caused the pilot
to feel slightly nauseous.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Prey, are you ready for the hunt?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"Go to hell!" Tom snarled.
<o:p> </o:p>
"The
Captain made a deal," B'Elanna argued.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"How dare you
hold us against our will.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Let us out of here!"
<o:p> </o:p>
The two Hirogen pointed their weapons at the couple as an even
larger Hirogen entered from behind the first two. Dressed
slightly different and proudly displaying what looked like medals
on his chest.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"I'm Commander Lodar and whether or not you leave here alive is
totally up to you.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>What?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You don't remember me?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"No, we don't," Tom answered for the two of them.
<o:p> </o:p>
"A shame, a real shame.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The holodeck hunts on Voyager were
very enjoyable despite the fact that my superior officer wouldn't
allow us to finish the game.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>But I don't have him looking over
my shoulder any more.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>What you see before you is part of a small
but growing group of Hirogen that refuse to relinquish our old
ways. Hirogen who believe our traditions are not to be ignored.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
Who still seek to be challenged by the hunt for prey.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>And you
two are our prey."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom and B'Elanna looked at each
other trying to digest this
information.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>B'Elanna was the first to speak.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"What did you
mean about leaving here alive is up to us?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"It's quite simple really. If the two of you provide us with
hunts that stimulate and challenge us . I may be convinced to
release you.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>As I said it is totally up to you."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom pulled B'Elanna to him with his right arm.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"I'll do it.
I'll be your prey.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Just let my wife and the mother of my
children go.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I beg you!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You can keep me, but release her."
<o:p> </o:p>
Lodar laughed approaching the pair with his weapon raised
threateningly before him.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"You don't understand.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We hunt for
the pair of you.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Both of you start the hunt at sunrise and both
of you must finish by sunset.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>If you do that, I'll return you to
this ship for you to recover before the next hunt begins."
<o:p> </o:p>
"You're sick," Tom snarled.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Don't you have any honor?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You'd
make my wife endure this hunt?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She has two babies at home that
need a mother?" <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Reaching
down towards the pair, Lodar patted B'Elanna on the
stomach.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Don't you dare touch my wife!" Tom threatened placing himself
between B'Elanna and Lodar.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Come now Voyagers, the last time we met she was ripe with child
and still proved to be an impressive adversary, as did you.
This time you're both in prime health.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It will be a splendid
hunt,"<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Lodar retreated to the door.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Htar, Wotrel see to our
prey.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>See that they are fed and are properly clothed for
tomorrow's hunt."
<o:p> </o:p>
With the creaking and slamming of the metal door Lodar left.
Htar and Wotrel threw the bags they had been carrying on their
backs at the pair. Then they turned and followed their leader
from the cell.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Voyager will come looking for us, Tom," B'Elanna said trying to
sound reassuring.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Of course they will B'Elanna. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><I just hope it's in time.><i><o:p></o:p></i>
<i><o:p> </o:p></i>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Alera!" Harry Kim shouted from the bedroom. He was standing over
the bed with a replicated diaper in his
hands. Staring at the
infant, who stared back with piercing blue eyes.
<o:p> </o:p>
"What is it, Harry?" The half-Betazoid asked from the doorway.
She sensed his frustration as well as saw it in the way he was
standing.
<o:p> </o:p>
Harry looked over at her then turned for her to see his problem.
"Lucas ruined my uniform!" he shouted, gesturing toward the wet
spot just above the crotch. He looked like he was the one who had
wet his pants, not Lucas.
<o:p> </o:p>
Alera tried to hide her laughter to no avail. She laughed out
loud, causing Harry to blush. He looked at Lucas, who was now
playing with his toes. He turned back to Alera, who was still
laughing.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Are you done, yet?" He asked.
<o:p> </o:p>
Alera snickered as she went to him. Taking the diaper from him,
she put it on the infant. Harry watched as the boy cooed and
giggled. Alera then picked up Lucas and smiled at Kim.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I guess you'll just have to change Lucas from now on," he said,
shrugging.
<o:p> </o:p>
Lerise shook her head, "It was an accident,
Harry. I doubt he
will do it again."
<o:p> </o:p>
Harry smiled and nodded, "All right, Alera." He sighed and
looked at his uniform, "I need to change before I go to the
Bridge."
<o:p> </o:p>
Alera nodded, "All right. I'll call you when I have to report for
work. See you later."
<o:p> </o:p>
She then left the bedroom. Entering the main room, Alera placed
Lucas in his crib next to Kyle. She kissed each of them on the
forehead before sitting on the couch to work on her report.
<o:p> </o:p>
Several minutes later, Harry entered the living room wearing a
clean uniform. He went over to Alera, kissed her on the cheek
then left for the Bridge.
<o:p> </o:p>
<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>~~
<o:p> </o:p>
Five hours later, Harry's commbadge chirped.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Lerise to Kim."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Kim here," he answered, knowing what was coming.
<o:p> </o:p>
"It's your turn, Harry. Don't worry, they're asleep."
<o:p> </o:p>
Harry could hear the smile in her voice. He shook his head as he
remembered that morning's event.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I'll be there, Alera. Kim out."
<o:p> </o:p>
Ten
minutes later, Harry stood outside the Torres-Paris' door. He
drew a deep breath then tapped the announcer.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Come in," Alera's voice floated to his ears.
<o:p> </o:p>
The door opened and the ensign stepped inside. Alera was exiting
the bathroom, brushing her dark blonde hair. She smiled at him
and he smiled back.
<o:p> </o:p>
"The babies are asleep," she said kissing him, "They'll wake up
in about an hour to eat. I'll be back in six hours to help you
put them to bed. Have fun."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She kissed him again then left their
friends' quarters.
<o:p> </o:p>
Harry entered the bedroom and saw the large crib at the foot of
the bed. He looked in it and saw Kyle's blond hair.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The baby
looked just like Tom did when the pilot was asleep or
unconscious. He smiled as he envisioned his friend's peaceful
face when he was visiting Tom in Sickbay. He was looking at that
expression now on Kyle.
<o:p> </o:p>
And how many times will you end up in Sickbay, Kyle? Harry
asked silently.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
He looked over to Kyle's right to see piercing
blue eyes staring
at him. They were so intense that he had to look away. Lucas had
not only inherited Tom's blue eyes, but his intense stare as
well.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
How many people will you affect with that gaze of yours, Lucas?
Harry thought, looking back at the baby.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
The blue eyes were calmer and Harry relaxed. It must have been
his imagination. He shook his head as the baby fell back to
sleep. He then went back into the living room to read over his
report.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
An hour later, Harry jumped when he heard a wail coming from the
bedroom. Running into the room and over to the crib. He looked
inside to find Kyle crying.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Shhh, Kyle," Harry whispered as he picked up the infant, "You'll
wake your brother."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Kyle bawled louder and kicked his little feet. Harry raced into
the other room, going right to the replicator.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"A bottle of warm milk, formula Paris Kyle." he shouted over the
cries of the baby. The bottle appeared and Harry grabbed it. He
then went over to
the couch and sat down. Placing Kyle in the
crook of his left arm, he eased the nipple on the bottle into the
baby's mouth. Kyle began feeding almost at once.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Hungry, aren't you?" Harry asked as deep brown eyes stared back
at him. They reminded him of B'Elanna's warm eyes. He smiled at
the baby as Kyle drank.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
A few moments later, Kyle stopped drinking. He stared at Harry,
his dark eyes bright.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Done?" The ensign asked as he took the bottle away and then
looked toward the bathroom.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>\*B'Elanna and Tom said to burp the
babies after they ate,\* he thought, Guess I'll burp him.
Gathering Kyle in his arms and heading toward the bathroom.
Before he got there, a warm sensation ran down his right
shoulder. He stopped and groaned.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>\*Oh no,\* he thought and
hurried into the bathroom.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Moving Kyle to his other shoulder as
he looked into the mirror, he turned so that he could see the
back of his shoulder.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Running down his uniform shoulder was
undigested milk. Kyle had thrown up on him.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Damn. Now, I'm
going to have to change again."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>At that moment, the sound of
crying came from the bedroom.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Lucas was hungry now and wanted to
tell the entire ship. Harry looked back in the mirror at his
reflection and spoke, "You can do this, Harry. They're just
babies."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He then heard crying from beside his ear. Kyle had
joined his brother in crying.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>\*This is going to be a long day,\*
he thought as he went into the bedroom to feed Lucas.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
The next morning, Tom and B'Elanna clothed in loose fitting tan
jumpsuits waited in the cell for the Hirogen to return.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Earlier,
they had explored the walls, the floor, every nook and cranny
but unfortunately they had found no way to escape.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Here, B'Elanna," Tom said as he passed her a circular disk that
resembled a doughnut but looked as it were made out of sawdust.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna grumbled, but took the offered disk from her husband and
breaking it in two began to chew it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She swallowed it along with
a mouthful of what tasted
like sour water from one of the bottles
of liquid they had been given.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"I never thought I'd find something to eat that was worse tasting
than the leola root that Neelix fixes, but I believe this is it."
B'Elanna grumbled.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"But we have to eat something to maintain our strength," Tom
replied as he brought a similar one up to his lips and chewed off
a chunk.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"In fact, we should bring some of these and some of
this . . . ah . . . water with us, you never know."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Tom we have to find a way to get out of here," she roared for
the umpteenth time that morning alone, this time she emphasized
her frustration by kicking at one of the walls with her foot.
"It's too bad that our commbadges don't work over long
distances."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom nodded his head in understanding.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They had been surprised
that their captors hadn't taken the badges, and had counted
themselves lucky.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>During the night, they tried the commbadges
but were not successful, Voyager of course wasn't close enough to
pick up the signal.
<o:p> </o:p>
"We'll find a way out, B'Elanna.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I'm not going to let them keep
us away from our boys."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>His voice trailed off as the door to the
cell noisily slammed opened. Lodar and another Hirogen that
they hadn't seen the night before entered.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I see that the clothing fits you and that you've eaten.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>That's
good.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We wouldn't want the hunt to end too soon would we?" Lodar
said as the other Hirogen warily watched the prisoners.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"The
first hunt will begin very soon.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>As to the type of terrain and
conditions you'll encounter, you'll find out when you arrive.
But I thought that I'd introduce you to Qret," Lodar said as he
nodded to his companion.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"He has been afforded the honor of the
first hunt.
<o:p> </o:p>
"It'll be the last hunt, Commander.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I'll not disappoint you!"
the younger, enthusiastic Hirogen stated adamantly.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Yes, well we shall see if relics hang on your wall.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I've told
you before, Qret, this species may be small but they are very
resourceful,"
Lodar warned as he took the weapon from Qret and
held it up for Tom and B'Elanna to briefly look at before tossing
it back to the smaller man.
<o:p> </o:p>
"This device will be the weapon of choice for the day.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It emits
an energy beam.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>When it hits the prey. it causes the prey to
hallucinate, but if the beam's contact is prolonged, a painful
death will occur.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You two will be beamed to the site of the hunt
very soon.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Qret will follow within fifteen of your minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You
two have until sunset, which is approximately twelve of your
hours.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>At that time, if you both have survived and are
together, we will beam you back to the ship.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>If only one of
you survives or if you are separated when the time comes to beam
you back to our ship, forget ever seeing Voyager or your
precious children again.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The only way you have of even
remotely hoping that you'll return to your ship is if you provide
us with a challenging hunt."
<o:p> </o:p>
Qret withdrew a small jar from his pocket and removed the lid.
He dipped his finger inside the jar.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>His finger was coated with
an orange substance.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Bring his finger up to one of his forehead
ridges the ran the thick paint-like substance along the ridge.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
Qret then walked over to Tom and B'Elanna.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Dipping his finger
inside the jar again, he marked each of them on their foreheads
with the same orange paint.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"This will signify that you are my
prey today," he explained simply before joining his leader.
<o:p> </o:p>
Lodar turned his back to the prey and walked toward the door.
"Let the hunt begin," he ordered and with a wave of his large
hand and he and Qret left the room.
<o:p> </o:p>
\*
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom and B'Elanna quickly found themselves engulfed in the
transporter beam. In an instant they were back down on the
planet, but the scenery was nothing like the idyllic area on the
planet where they had landed their shuttle.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>All around them
stood blocks of rocks and boulders.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The height of the blocks
reached well over their heads.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Too high and sheer for them to
climb up, but the thing that surprised them even more were the
rocks themselves.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Tom, it looks like we are surrounded by mirrors," B'Elanna
observed as they held hands and quickly scurried away from the
landing site down what appeared to be a corridor.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>All around
them, reflections of the pair were visible, it made it look as if
there were hundreds of Toms and B'Elannas running together
towards an unknown destination.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"We've got to keep moving, B'Elanna.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It's our only chance.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We
have to put as much distance as possible between us and Qret."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom pulled his wife along with him as he took a right turn and
then a left down another mirrored corridor.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
At the agreed upon time, Qret brandishing his weapon was beamed
down to the same coordinates that his prey had been beamed to
earlier.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Looking around him, he saw not only his image reflected
in the 'mirrors,' but that of his prey as well. As an
announcement of his arrival he bellowed out a welcome.
<o:p> </o:p>
"THE HUNT BEGINS, PREY--I'M COMING FOR YOU!!!"
<o:p> </o:p>
The echo of his
voice resounded through the network of corridors
until it reached the ears of his prey.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom and B'Elanna looked
around at the 'mirrors' and could see Qret's image appear as it
overlapped their own.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"We have to keep moving Tom," B'Elanna
said as she pulled her husband down the next corridor with her.
"We're no match for his weapon, our only hope is to out distance
him."
<o:p> </o:p>
"I'm right behind you, 'Lanna."
<o:p> </o:p>
A few hours had passed and the tired pair sat down and B'Elanna
searched her pockets for bits of the tasteless 'doughnut' that
she had placed there earlier. Tom examined what was left of the
bottle of liquid they had been given that morning. Opening the
bottle he took a small sip, made a grimace and handed it to his
wife.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Damn this stuff is worse than it was this morning, but
you had better have some.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We still have hours to go before the
sun sets."
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna face made a similar expression of disgust as she
swallowed the water and replaced the cap.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Let's sit for a
little while and then we'll move again."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Okay, but just a little while.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I don't want 'Junior' to find
us," Tom remarked. He looked around at their surroundings and
was satisfied that the only reflection present in the mirrored
faces of the rock were their own.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Qret tramped through one corridor after an other.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He had thought
that this hunt would be easy.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>That by this time their bones
would have been boiling in preparation to become trophies
decorating his wall.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>After all, he had reasoned, the Voyagers
were much smaller than his kind. They should be easy to capture
and kill.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>But he had been proven wrong, they possessed a lot
more stamina than he had anticipated.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He should have listened to
his elders who had encountered them before, on the alien ship,
Qret mused as he continued his hunt through the maze of mirrors.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom and B'Elanna were back on their feet again, first turning
down one corridor, then another.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Tom this one looks familiar," B'Elanna remarked as she looked up
and around.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"They \*all\* look familiar, B'Elanna," her husband grumbled.
"They all look like mirrored corridors.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It's like we are in a
maze of mirrors."
<o:p> </o:p>
"So we might be walking around in circles?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"I'm afraid so . . . oh no!" he said quietly and pulled B'Elanna
down close to the ground.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"There he is."
<o:p> </o:p>
"But where is he?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"That's the problem with these blasted mirrors he could be a
kilometer away or right behind us."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Or maybe I'm right in front of you, prey!!" Qret announced as he
raised his weapon and fired. At the sound of his voice. Tom and
B'Elanna ran down the nearest passageway, but not before B'Elanna
felt a tingling sensation grip her right shoulder. She had been
struck by a discharge from the weapon.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Tom, I've been hit," she said, starting to fall towards the
ground.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Spinning around he grabbed her limp body and put her over his
shoulder.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>There was no time to examine her wound now. What
currently mattered<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>most was that they distance themselves from
the young hunter.
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom ran down one passageway after another with the precious
bundle draped over his shoulder.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Losing count of how many
corridors he had run down, suddenly the ground fell out from
under him and he and B'Elanna slid down a ramp.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They finally
came to a stop in a shallow underground cavern beneath the maze
of mirrors.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom rolled over and reached for his wife.
<o:p> </o:p>
"B'Elanna, can you hear me?" he asked, pulling her towards
him and into a shaft of light that emanated from a crack in the
ceiling of the cave.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna gradually opened her dark eyes and looked up at Tom's
face. However as a result of her wound from the hallucinatory
weapon she didn't see her mate, she saw her fear. That fear was
expressed as the face of Qret, the Hirogen hunter they left
behind on the surface.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"No, No, NO!!!" she yelled as she
struggled beneath Tom's hands.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Let me go, you Hirogen pe'taQ!!"
<o:p> </o:p>
"B'Elanna, it's
me, Tom, snap out of this."
<o:p> </o:p>
With a mighty shove she pushed herself away from her husband and
scrambled away from him.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>B'Elanna looked crazed and
disoriented. Her hair was tangled about her head and sweat
dripped in a steady stream down her face.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"B'Elanna, stop.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You have to stay here!" her husband pleaded
with her.
<o:p> </o:p>
"You--you stay away from me," she threatened as she pointed at
the man before her.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Please, sit down B'Elanna you were struck by that weapon.
You're not thinking clearly," he tried to explain, but it was too
late.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She turned around and began crawling away from him as fast
as she could.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom tried to follow, but being almost 30 centimeters taller than
her, the going was slow. The only blessing was that, if it was
slow for him, for the Hirogen it should be close to
impossible.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
Time passed to a point where he had all but given up hope, his
voice raw from calling her name, when he all but stumbled over
her prone body on the cavern
floor.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Seeing her, he fell to his
knees and turned her over, pulling her onto his lap.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He brushed
her hair away from her face and gently murmured her name.
<o:p> </o:p>
"B'Elanna, wake up it's me, Tom.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Come on, love, let me see your
beautiful eyes."
<o:p> </o:p>
The half-Klingon tentatively half-opened her eyes and saw her
husband before her.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Tom?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"Yes, love, it's me.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"
<o:p> </o:p>
"What happened?" she asked as she looked around.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Where are we?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"We're in a cavern beneath the surface.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You were shot, don't you
remember?" he asked as he tenderly brushed some dirt away from
her puzzled face.
<o:p> </o:p>
"No, no I don't, but my shoulder hurts," she explained.
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom rolled her body away from him to look at the shoulder, but
the dim light made it nearly impossible.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"We've got to get out of here so I can look at it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Can you
move?"
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna flexed her legs and her arms.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"I think I'll be all
right."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Okay, I can see plenty
of light in the distance.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I think we can
get out over there," he explained as he offered her his hand and
they moved on.
<o:p> </o:p>
Nearing the light they could see that it was indeed another entry
point to the surface above.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>From their position below, they
could look up and see the familiar mirrored surfaces of the maze,
and from behind them they could hear the menacing sound of the
hunter approaching.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Quickly, they emerged from the cavern below
and were happy to notice that the sun had nearly set.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Just another hour or so, B'Elanna, then it will be dark," Tom
explained as he held her hand and they sped along one of the
mirrored passageways.
<o:p> </o:p>
"You know, Tom, I'm really sick of seeing these mirrors all over
the place.
<o:p> </o:p>
I wish there was some way we could shatter them, then maybe we
could at least hide until the sun set."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Yeah, if the Doc was down here he could sing an operatic aria
and shatter them all with his perfect pitch," Tom said thinking
back at the times the Doctor attempted
to serenade the pair with
songs from Carmen and Aida.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna came to a full stop which almost caused Tom, who had
been holding her hand, to trip and fall.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"I've got it!" she
exclaimed.
<o:p> </o:p>
"You've got what?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"I think I know of a way to shatter these mirrors, at least quite
a few of them.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Do you still have your commbadge?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"Yeah," he answered as he searched his pockets.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"It's--a--right
here."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom dropped the device into B'Elanna eager hands.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She
immediately got to work.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She pulled one of the two commbadges
apart and extracted a small silver component and placed that into
the other commbadge.
<o:p> </o:p>
"If I combine the audionic tonal enunciator with the harmonic
frequency . . . then . . . there that's it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>One mirror
destroyer," she announced proudly.
<o:p> </o:p>
"But will it work on these 'mirrors'?" Tom asked.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I don't see why not . . . ah there," B'Elanna said as she
pointed the commbadge at the wall at the end of one of the
corridors.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes">
</span>"Here it goes.
<o:p> </o:p>
Watch out. Cover your ears."
<o:p> </o:p>
With a press of the commbadge a high pitched squeal was created.
At first nothing happened, then one by one, the faces of the
stones darkened, cracked, and finally the mirrored veneer surface
flaked off until all that remained where dark blocks of stone.
<o:p> </o:p>
\*
<o:p> </o:p>
The last hour of the day seemed to last forever.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Tom, I've got to sit.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I can't walk any farther," B'Elanna said
as she came to a halt.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Come on, B'Elanna we've got to keep moving," Tom pleaded.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"It
won't be long now, look there is only a sliver of the sun still
showing.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We've made it through today's hunt."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Think again prey!" Qret yelled from down the darkened corridor.
<o:p> </o:p>
"It's over for today, Qret.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The sun has set!" Tom yelled at his
adversary.
<o:p> </o:p>
"It's not over for me," he replied and lowered his weapon just as
the last trace of the sun fell behind the horizon.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>At that very
moment all three were
engulfed in the transporter beam and
brought back to the ship.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
Leaving Qret behind in the transporter room, Tom and B'Elanna
were escorted back to their cell and provided with food and
water.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"B'Elanna, let's take off your top so I can look at that
shoulder." Tom asked.
<o:p> </o:p>
She unfastened the now dirty, soiled garment and painfully pulled
in down from her injured shoulder.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom tenderly touched the area
which elicited a sharp intake of air from his wife.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Obviously,
it was very sore.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"I wish we had a medkit here, then I could help you," he said
sadly.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Maybe I can help you," a voice said from over by the doorway.
"My name is Brizat, I'm the ship's doctor.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Let me see if I can
heal that injury."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Why do you want to help us?" Tom asked suspiciously.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I'm a doctor, it is my duty to not only heal the injured of this
ship, but in this case to ensure that the hunt tomorrow will be
as challenging as today's was.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>For that to be the case, you both
must be as healthy as possible," Brizat explained as he healed
B'Elanna's shoulder with a Hirogen version of a dermal
regenerator.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The shoulder healed though Tom could tell that the
Doctor's device was primitive compared the regenerators that they
used on Voyager.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Um, Doctor, do you know where the shuttle is?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"It's on this ship.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Why?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"Well our regenerators apparently work better on human-type skin.
If I could get one then I could heal the wound."
<o:p> </o:p>
Brizat pocketed his own regenerator and stood up abruptly.
"Don't mistake my coming down here to heal her wound as meaning
that I'd help you escape. This is all the healing that you'll get
and you should be thankful that Lodar is letting me do this much.
Now I suggest that you eat and sleep, tomorrow there is another
hunt that will be even more taxing that today's was."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>At that
last comment, he stormed out of the cell.
<o:p> </o:p>
"How could tomorrow's hunt be more arduous than
today?" B'Elanna
asked her husband.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I don't know, but he is right about one thing.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>For us to even
hope of completing tomorrow's hunt we need nourishment and rest,"
Tom could see that she wasn't thinking about the hunt right now.
"It's okay B'Elanna I think about them too," he said as he pulled
her into his embrace.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"I miss them so much, Tom," she sobbed.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"What if we don't
survive the next hunt, what if they grow up never knowing us.
Never knowing how much we loved them, how much we loved
each other. I don't think I can bear the thought of that."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Ssssh, ssssh.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We'll get back, I know we will."
<o:p> </o:p>
"How?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>How can you know?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"Our love is strong, B'Elanna.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Not only our love for each other
but for our sons.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I can't believe that fate brought us together
just to separate us now.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I can't explain, it but I feel that we
will see Kyle and Lucas again."
<o:p> </o:p>
"I hope you're right."
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom Paris
woke to the feeling of someone stroking his hair. He
opened his eyes, and groaned when he saw the door to the cell.
The stroking stopped at his groan, and B'Elanna's voice came to
his ears.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Are you all right, Tom?"
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom sighed, "I was dreaming about being on Voyager. We were with
our boys and were happy. It was so very real."
<o:p> </o:p>
The stroking began again.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He then felt her lips press against
his temple.
<o:p> </o:p>
"That dream will be a reality, Tom," she reassured.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"We just
have to find a way to escape."
<o:p> </o:p>
The pilot nodded.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Placing his right hand on her left knee that
he was using as a pillow, he squeezed it and said, "I'm just glad
you are here with me.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I don't know what I'd do."
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna ran her hand through his hair as she spoke, "You would
work even harder to get back, Tom."
<o:p> </o:p>
"I'd kill them to get back to you and the twins," Tom said,
deadly serious.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I know you would," B'Elanna said quietly. She knew he would kill
to
be with her. She could see him using any weapon he could get
his hands on to kill his captors. She kissed him again, and she
felt his right hand entangle itself in her dark hair.
<o:p> </o:p>
The door banging open broke the solemn moment. The couple sat up,
startled. They stared as Lodar and another Hirogen entered their
cell.
<o:p> </o:p>
"This is Wotrel," Lodar stated, motioning to the taller Hirogen,
"He will be hunting you today. First though you will eat and
drink. You will also be given clothing to help you survive the
climate."
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna glared at Lodar, "What kind of climate?"
<o:p> </o:p>
Lodar just stared back at her, his eyes narrowed, "You will find
out later. Here is your food."
<o:p> </o:p>
Lodar tossed them some bars of food and two containers of green
liquid. The two Hirogen turned and left the cell.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
"These two are worthy prey, Lodar," Wotrel said as they made
their way down the corridor, "They have survived the first hunt
with no problem."
<o:p> </o:p>
Lodar snarled,
"Only because Qret is an incompetent young fool.
He was too eager for the kill. He needs to learn patience."
<o:p> </o:p>
Wotrel smiled, "That he does. I will make sure this hunt will be
a good one."
<o:p> </o:p>
Lodar stared at the younger hunter, "Make sure you do not get
carried away, Wotrel."
<o:p> </o:p>
"I will not, Leader," Wotrel said, but inside he was smiling. He
was going to make sure these prey gave him a good hunt.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom took a bite of one of the bars. He swallowed, made a face,
and groaned. "Ration bars taste better than this," he said,
trying not to vomit.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna took a drink of the liquid and nearly spat it out.
"Gods, this is awful," she gagged, "It tastes worse than
yesterday's water!"
<o:p> </o:p>
"We have to eat, B'Elanna," <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Paris soothed, "If we don't we will
be unable to survive whatever hunt they have planned."
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna nodded and ate her food bar.
<o:p> </o:p>
Several minutes later, the door opened again to reveal Lodar.
He
was carrying a bulky jacket in each hand. He tossed them to
the couple as he said, "You have until sunset to complete the
hunt. When you are transported to the surface you will have five
of your minutes before Wotrel is transported to you."
<o:p> </o:p>
The couple picked up the jackets and knew where they were going.
<o:p> </o:p>
\*Oh wonderful,\* Tom thought as he remembered the last time they
were in a cold climate together.
<o:p> </o:p>
"You have until sunset," Lodar reminded them. He then turned and
left the room.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I don't like this," B'Elanna said as she put on the jacket.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"I don't either," Tom agreed, zipping up his jacket.
<o:p> </o:p>
A moment later, they felt the sensation of being transported.
When the feeling cleared, the couple instantly felt the biting
wind. They wrapped their arms around themselves as the snow fell
around them.
<o:p> </o:p>
"We materialized in a blizzard!" Tom shouted bitterly.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Let's get out of here!" B'Elanna yelled, "We have only a few
minutes
before that Hirogen shows up."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom nodded as he took her hand, and headed off in an unknown
direction. The two could barely see anything, thanks to the heavy
snowfall. They just hoped the hunter was going to have a rough
time as well.
<o:p> </o:p>
At that moment they heard Wotrel shout, "I am coming for you,
prey!"
<o:p> </o:p>
The couple looked at each other, their faces betraying their
fear. They trod faster through the deep snow. Barely getting
anywhere, yet hoping they wouldn't run into the hunter.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Where are you prey?!" Wotrel's yell came to their ears, "You
can't run forever!"
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom tripped in the deep snow and would have fallen if B'Elanna
hadn't caught him. He whispered his thanks and they continued on.
<o:p> </o:p>
"It's freezing!" B'Elanna growled as her teeth chattered.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Nice of you to notice," Tom answered, his own teeth chattering.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna glared at him, "Shut up, you! Let's keep moving."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom looked at his wife. She appeared to be in
the first stages of
frostbite. His own hands and feet felt very cold as he trod
through the snow. He rubbed his hands together then blew on them.
He looked over at B'Elanna as she blew on her hands.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Feeling any deja vu, yet?" Tom asked, lightly.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna stared at him darkly, "This is worse, <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Paris. We weren't
in a blizzard last time."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom nodded, "I know. We also weren't being chased by a
bloodthirsty hunter, either."
<o:p> </o:p>
"I can smell your fear, prey!" Wotrel's voice came to their ears,
"You will make fine trophies on my wall!"
<o:p> </o:p>
At that, Tom grabbed his wife's hand and took off at a dead run.
He did not want to know where Wotrel was. He wanted to get as far
away from the hunter as possible.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Tom, stop!" B'Elanna said after awhile, "I'm tired! Slow down!"
<o:p> </o:p>
"We can't, B'Elanna," Tom mentioned, "If we do, that Hirogen will
win. There's no telling what he'll do."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Let's at least rest, Tom!"
She pulled him to a stop. The force
of the pull caused him to loose his balance. He fell, splaying
his arms and legs, toward the ground. He stared up into her eyes
filled with concern.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Are you all right?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"Yeah, the landing was soft. Care you help me up?"
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna smiled slightly as she helped him to his feet. The two
then continued on, hoping they weren't heading toward their
pursuer.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
Hours later, Tom couldn't feel his fingers or toes anymore. He
put his hands under his arms to warm them. He began to curse the
Hirogen for not giving them gloves. He looked over at B'Elanna.
Her face was pale and her eyes were drooping. She also had her
hands under her arms.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Want my jacket, Lanna?" Tom asked, concerned that she might be
experiencing hypothermia.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna looked at him. He could see the frost forming on her
eyebrows. He suspected that his face also showed signs of
frostbite. Her expression showed signs of lethargy.
<o:p> </o:p>
She shook her head, "You
need your jacket, Tom."
<o:p> </o:p>
"You need it more than I do, B'Elanna," he said, starting to take
his jacket off.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Tom," she said, stopping to stare at him, "you'll die without
it! I couldn't stand to be alone in this without you. I'm fine
with just my jacket."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom was about to protest, but a dark
glare from her kept him quiet. He nodded and put his arms around
her, just as he did when they were lost in that frozen habitat.
He just wished they could be transported from this habitat as
well. He knew better, though. The only way they would be beamed
away was at sunset. They would also be beamed to their cell
instead of Voyager.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>\*Anywhere is better than here,\* Tom thought
as he led B'Elanna further into the blizzard.
<o:p> </o:p>
Suddenly, he felt B'Elanna go limp. He stopped and stared at her.
He grew alarmed when he saw her eyes closed. He shook her
sharply.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Come on, B'Elanna!" He shouted, "Wake up!"
<o:p> </o:p>
He continued to shake her until her eyes flew open, and she hit
him across the face.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Stop shaking me!" she shouted, ignoring the shocked expression
on his face.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom smiled as he rubbed his cheek, "Welcome back,
B'Elanna. Let's keep moving."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Tom," B'Elanna said, sitting down in the snow, "can we stop for
a bit?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"No, B'Elanna," he said, forcing her back on her feet, "We have
to keep moving. For your sake and our children."
<o:p> </o:p>
The mention of their children sent a new surge of adrenaline
through her body. She nodded, grabbed his hand, and led the way.
<o:p> </o:p>
That's my girl, Tom thought as he felt himself becoming drowsy.
He shook his head, and tried to keep up with the fast moving
engineer.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
The two were now walking arm in arm, trying to share each other's
body heat. B'Elanna was walking slow, her eyes barely open. She
felt light headed and numb all over. Being chilled to the bone,
she barely felt Tom's arm around her.
<o:p> </o:p>
She stumbled several times, nearly bringing Tom down with her.
She
mumbled her apologies each time, though he said nothing.
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom kept looking at B'Elanna ever so often to see if she was
still with him. Her face was extremely pale, her breathing
was shallow. Tom knew he had to keep them moving, and keep her
close to his body.
<o:p> </o:p>
Suddenly, Tom heard a deep growl. Knowing it didn't come from
B'Elanna, he stopped in his tracks, quickly looking around. He
strained eyes and ears, to see or hear what new danger was coming
their way.
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom heard the growl again. Spinning around to face a pair of
glowing yellow eyes glaring at him, the owner of the eyes soon
walked into his view. He gasped in fear at the huge creature that
stood before him.
<o:p> </o:p>
Gods, what is that!?
<o:p> </o:p>
Before him was a huge cat-like creature. It was black with white
stripes. Its fangs protruded from it's mouth like a Prehistoric
Smildon. Its tail was long and thick as a snow leopard's.
<o:p> </o:p>
The creature growled again and took a step toward them. Tom
backed up, keeping his wife behind him. He knew the creature
could
sense her weakened state, and would attack them at any
moment.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Nice kitty," Tom said softly, "Stay right there. That's a good
kitty."
<o:p> </o:p>
The cat hissed, causing Tom to jump. He closed his eyes and
sighed. He then sensed B'Elanna fall to the ground. He spun
around to get to her. At that moment, the creature decided to
pounce. It roared as it launched itself at them.
<o:p> </o:p>
Suddenly, a shriek pierced the calmness of the habitat. Tom
looked up to see the creature fall to the ground dead. He looked
around to search for their savior, but saw nothing. A moment
later, he heard a rumbling. His heart leapt into his
throat as he realized what that was.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
Avalanche! His mind screamed.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Come on, Torres! Get up!" He shouted as he lifted her to her
feet. He then lifted her into his arms, and tried a run for it.
<o:p> </o:p>
Before long, the rolling snow caught him and lifted him off his
feet. It took him and B'Elanna for a ride before it buried them
deep in snow.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom
Paris slowly opened his eyes. He stared at his surroundings
to find himself in the Hirogen's infirmary. He closed his eyes
again and sighed.
<o:p> </o:p>
I never thought that I'd miss Doc and Sickbay, he thought, \*but
I do."
<o:p> </o:p>
"It's a wonder you two survived, if Wotrel hadn't killed that
beast you two would have been his supper.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>But, Wortrel's greed
for relics cost him his own life."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom nodded, thinking that if Wotrel hadn't been so greedy both he
and B'Elanna would probably now be dead.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I healed your wounds, human," the Hirogen doctor continued
gruffly, "I'm having trouble with your companion, though."
<o:p> </o:p>
At that, Tom's eyes grew wide.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He sat up, fear in his eyes. He
ignored the throbbing in his head as he asked, "Where is she?"
<o:p> </o:p>
Brizat moved aside to show B'Elanna lying on a bed across from
him. She was deathly pale and showing signs of extreme frostbite.
The Hirogen stared at Tom.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I can't heal her," he said, "her injuries are too extreme for
our instruments."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Let me go to the shuttle, Doc," Tom said desperately, "There are
instruments there that can heal her. Please, I need her. I love
her!"
<o:p> </o:p>
Brizat stared at him, "Love her?"
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom nodded, "We're mates. We have two children back on Voyager.
They'll never see their mother if you don't let me get the
regenerators!"
<o:p> </o:p>
Brizat looked from Tom to B'Elanna then back again. He nodded and
the pilot sighed in relief.
<o:p> </o:p>
"You will come with me," Brizat said.
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom looked up, shocked, "I'm not leaving her alone."
<o:p> </o:p>
The Doctor saw the desperation in the pilot's eyes, but also the
fear of leaving his mate. Finally, Brizat said, "I don't know
your shuttle. I don't know what your equipment looks like.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You
will have to show me."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom thought for a moment then nodded, "Lead the way," he said as
he jumped off the bed and followed the doctor.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom punched in the access code to the shuttle.
The door hissed
open, and he stepped in followed by Brizat.
<o:p> </o:p>
Once inside, Tom went to work to look for the medkit. In his
search, he went to the bed, and came across the picture of the
boys. He stopped and picked it up. He stared longingly at the
image. He touched each face as he fought back the tears.
<o:p> </o:p>
"What do you have there?" Brizat asked, going to him.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom wiped
a tear off his face. He gave the picture to the Doctor, and
continued his search.
<o:p> </o:p>
Brizat looked at the picture, and saw the two children. They
looked very much alike, except for their hair and eyes. He looked
back at the pilot and said, "They are your offspring?"
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom stopped his search to look at him. He then nodded, "They're
twins. They're only eight months old."
<o:p> </o:p>
Brizat stared at the picture and replied, "Twins are almost
non-existent among Hirogen. You are fortunate."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom nodded as he rejoined the doctor. He held in his right hand a
small rectangular box. He lifted it toward Brizat as he said, "I
found the medkit. Let's go."
<o:p> </o:p>
Brizat didn't move, but stared passed the much shorter human. He
jutted his chin toward the bed.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Do all your shuttles have such beds?"
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom turned around to look at the satin covered bed. Memories came
flooding back to him, and he instantly felt a need to return to
B'Elanna.
<o:p> </o:p>
"No," he answered sadly. "Our crew arranged for this shuttle to
have a special bed. It's for our honeymoon."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Honeymouse?" Brizat asked, cocking his head to one side.
<o:p> </o:p>
The pilot smiled slightly and shook his head, "Honeymoon. It's a
tradition among humans for a mated pair to go on a special
vacation .. ah.. trip to...uh...celebrate their...union with one
another. This planet was supposed to be our honeymoon spot."
<o:p> </o:p>
Brizat looked at the bed then back at the sad human, "I'm sorry."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom stared at him, stunned at this Hirogen's apology. He gave the
doctor a small smile, "Let's get this to B'Elanna."
<o:p> </o:p>
Brizat
nodded and followed Tom out of the shuttle.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
Several minutes later, Tom was telling Brizat about B'Elanna's
past.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Her father left her?" The doctor asked.
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom nodded, "She never knew why. She believed it was because she
was too Klingon."
<o:p> </o:p>
Brizat stared at the engineer as Tom finished healing her. Tom
then scanned her.
<o:p> </o:p>
"She's healed," the pilot announced after a moment.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Lodar should be informed, so she has time to recover."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom smiled and nodded, "Thank you. I'll stay with her if you
don't mind."
<o:p> </o:p>
Brizat agreed, "You can tell me how you became mates."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom blushed and looked at B'Elanna. He then smiled and said,
"This could take awhile."
<o:p> </o:p>
"We have all day."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom nodded, took a deep breath, and began, "It all started with
an engagement party..."
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
The Captain and Chakotay stood outside of Tom and B'Elanna's
quarters and pressed the annunciator
button to announce their
presence.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Alera, will you get that? I'm trying to change Kyle." Harry
asked as he struggled with the easy-one-step diaper.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I hope you remembered to cover his . . ."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Argggh!"
<o:p> </o:p>
Alera shook her head at the sound of Harry's scream as she
reached the door and signaled it to open.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Ahhh, welcome Captain, Commander," Alera said as she bade them
to come in.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Please have a seat, ummm Harry should be along
shortly."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Good evening, Ensign," Janeway said as they walked past Alera
and sat down on the sofa.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"What's Harry up to?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"He's...ah...trying to change Kyle."
<o:p> </o:p>
Harry hearing the commotion from the living area came out with a
giggling Kyle tucked under one arm and a squealing Lucas under
the other.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"What's going to out here Alera. . oh good evening
Captain, Commander."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Harry, it looks like you've got your hands full here why don't
you give me one of the little
angels," Kathryn Janeway offered.
<o:p> </o:p>
"And I'll take the other one," Chakotay spoke up.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Besides, Harry," Janeway added noticing the streak of wetness
that ran from his left shoulder down to a mid-point on his chest.
"I think you might need to change."
<o:p> </o:p>
Harry Kim blushed a deep shade of red as he handed little Lucas
to the Captain and Kyle to her First Officer.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"You're right,
Captain, little Kyle has a deadly aim.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I'll be right back."
Harry retreated back to the back bedroom and changed while the
little boys gurgled and cooed at the senior officers.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
It wasn't long before all four adults were seated in the living
area while the Captain and Chakotay played with the little boys.
<o:p> </o:p>
"You know Harry and Alera, these are two of the best behaved
babies I've ever seen," Janeway said as she tickled Lucas under
the chin which elicited a huge grin which displayed some newly
acquired teeth.
<o:p> </o:p>
Chakotay bounced little Kyle on his knee as he had seen his
father
and uncles do to his little cousins -- all babies seemed
to like to be bounced.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
It had been approximately four hours since the Hirogen had beamed
Tom and B'Elanna back down to a desert area on the surface of the
planet to begin their third hunt.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This time they were clad in
loose tan shorts and tops. They had been allowed to bring some
food this time along with four water bottles which hung on straps
around their shoulders and that was all.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>As the burning
relentless sun beat down upon them, they walked across hard-
packed hot sand peppered with an occasionally desert plant
that resembled a cactus but with extraordinarily long spines.
<o:p> </o:p>
The first couple of hours, before the sun rose higher in the sky
and it got hotter, they had covered a great deal of distance.
Running, then walking and then running again to put as much
distance as was possible between themselves and Htar.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They
stopped every once and a while for a water break, being careful
to save enough water to last the entire day.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
During the
time that followed, their pace slowed and they now had
reached an area where the terrain was more varied than the flat
monotonous area they had first beamed down to.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>All around them
now were large rocks and in the distance they could make out
higher ground and what appeared to be canyons and mesas.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
All along their arduous trek, Tom marveled at the half-Klingon.
She apparently thrived in these type of dry, hot conditions.
B'Elanna effortlessly trotted along through the heat at an
untiring pace<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He only wished he could say the same.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Every hour
that past, he became more and more tired and more and more
sunburned.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The nearer they got to the high ground and mid-
afternoon the hotter it became.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>To the pilot, it felt like
someone had rung the oxygen out of the air, leaving behind just a
occasional dry, dead breeze.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><If only we could sit down and rest, just for a moment, just a . . .> he though just before he
blacked out and plummeted head first into the sand.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna looked back in alarm and saw that her husband had
collapsed.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She went back to him, knelt down beside him and
rolled him over onto his back. Running ahead of him during the
last several kilometers, she hadn't noticed how much he was
suffering from the heat.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Sweat streamed down his red sunburned
face and his clothing was drenched with perspiration as well.
<o:p> </o:p>
She unhooked one of the water bottles from the sling around her
neck and held it up to her husband's parched, cracked lips.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Drink Tom, drink," she pleaded.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Somehow through the haze he heard her call his name and he opened
his parched lips to feel the wet water-like substance flow into
his dry mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"I'm sorry, B'Elanna," he murmured after she removed the bottle.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
B'Elanna tried to position herself between the red sun and her
Tom to try and create as much shade as was possible.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She used
her hands to gently brush his sweat wet hair away from his
forehead.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Ssssh, you have nothing to be sorry about.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Rest for a while and
then we'll get going again," she said
soothingly.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She hated to
insist on moving again so soon, but with Htar coming she had no
choice if they were to live and see the boys again.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I'm sor-ry," he repeated thickly, his dry lips and swollen
tongue making it very difficult to speak clearly.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I think I've got a plan Tom, we just have to walk a few more
kilometers to where the high country begins, then you can rest.
I promise."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Plan?" he asked.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>His head ached and his ears rang, but he
fought to stay conscious.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Nothing for you to worry about, it's a simple plan.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>All you
have to do is to keep moving a little while longer.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Do you think
you can do that?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"For you...anything," he promised.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>With her help, he stood up
again.
<o:p> </o:p>
This time though, B'Elanna didn't run ahead of him but held him
around the waist to support him while they walked together.
Looking back every once in a while in the distance, B'Elanna
could see a small cloud of dust getting closer all the time--Htar
was coming.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Coming for them.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
The last few kilometers seemed to take forever to cross until
finally they both reached the base of the rise of red earth.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"We have to climb now Tom," she ordered. "You can do it, I'll
help you."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Looking up at his beet-red face which had now started
to develop blisters, she saw that he had stopped perspiring.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She
knew that this wasn't a good sign.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It meant that heat stroke was
eminent.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She had to quickly get him to some shade and give him
what water remained if he were to survive until sunset.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>And she
was determined that he would survive if she had anything to say
about it. She vowed that they both would make it back to Voyager.
<o:p> </o:p>
Not saying anything, Tom nodded his head and the two of them made
their slow ascent up the steep slope before them.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They were
about half-way up when she spotted Htar about a kilometer away.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Voyagers!!!" Htar's yelled at them from a distance, his loud
voice could be heard clearly even from that far away.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Face your
fate!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes">
</span>The hunt will end here!"
<o:p> </o:p>
<Not if I can help it> B'Elanna vowed to herself as she helped
Tom crawl upward toward the top.
<o:p> </o:p>
Looking back she could see Htar lowering his weapon.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The weapon
chosen for today was a sophisticated beam-type weapon similar in
appearance to their phaser rifles.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Commander Lodar explained to
them that morning, that the weapon had a great range and that a
shot from it could paralyze a limb or if the beam's target was
the torso, death was almost always the result.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Htar's first shot hit an area several meters below where they
stood on the rise in earth and sprayed dirt and small stones
where it struck.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Come on Tom," she encouraged her husband.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"We have to move
quickly and move now.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Trying his best, using tired muscles but with a profound desire
to see his little Flyboys again, he followed her example and
climbed up with her further up the steep slope.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Finally just
before they reached the top, Htar made his presence known again.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Voyagers,
the hunt has ended," he sanctimoniously proclaimed and
lowered his powerful weapon, took aim and this time found his
target.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Argggh!!!" Tom screamed as a burning sensation enveloped his
right leg.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna acting quickly grabbed her husband by his arm and
pulling him with her scrambled to the top of the rise.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Blessing
her Klingon strength, she reached over the edge and pulled her
husband up over the edge and out of sight from the line of fire.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Looking down at his leg, B'Elanna saw the aftereffects of the
blast.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom's red sunburned leg lay lifeless beside his body
except for a trembling that would start up and fade away
periodically.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Every time the trembling would start she could see
him clench his teeth trying desperately to endure the pain.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
<What can I do now?> she asked herself as she pulled Tom over
towards an outcrop of rocks that provided some shade and
protection from the relentless sun.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Htar was still about a half
a kilometer away and he would still have to transverse the same
slope that they had climbed before he could reach them.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She
opened a bottle of the water and poured some into Tom's parched
mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>There had to be something that she could do she pondered,
taking into account that the only weapons she could use were the
rocks that where presence in abundance all around them, a plan
formed in her mind.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Tom, I'm going to get rid of Htar," she told the pilot.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She
wasn't sure in his condition if he even heard her. He seemed to
drift in and out of consciousness, but she didn't want him to
wake and find her not beside him.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Tom," she tried again.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Lie still, I've got a plan.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I'll be
back."
<o:p> </o:p>
Minutes passed liked seconds, questions streamed through her
brain.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Would she have enough time?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Would this stop Htar?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Would
Tom survive?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Would she?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Would they ever see Kyle and Lucas
again?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The questions only spurred her into action.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She worked
fast and by the time Htar was half-way up the slope, she was
ready for him.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna pulled herself
up to her full diminutive height and
taunted the Hirogen.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Htar, you're getting slow.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I'm over
here!" she yelled.
<o:p> </o:p>
The Hirogen's head jerked up at the sound of her voice and
renewed his efforts toward her direction to reach her.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"You'll never make it Htar, we are too fast for you!" she
continued as she repositioned herself behind the large pile of
stones and rocks she had accumulated.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Voyagers, you barely have enough time to speak to your gods,
soon you'll be relics to adorn the walls of my cabin!" Htar
boasted as he continued to get closer and closer to the top.
<o:p> </o:p>
Seeing that the hunter was in the proper position, B'Elanna
called upon all her Klingon strength and pushed the pile of rocks
with her body, sending the rocks and stones tumbling down the
slope and towards their unsuspecting victim.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
She heard Htar's roar of surprise and peeking over the edge could
see that the rocks had taken care of the hunter.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He had landed
at the bottom of the slope and B'Elanna's
rocks, as well as other
rocks that had been dislodged along the way, almost buried him
and the accursed weapon had been broken in several pieces and lay
in various locations all around the hunter.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Hunt number three
had ended and none too soon.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
Soon they were transported back to the ship.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>B'Elanna took what
was left of the water and let Tom drink his full until he lapsed
into unconsciousness once again.
<o:p> </o:p>
After what seemed like hours, Brizat entered the cell, and found
the man with his head resting on the woman's lap while her back
rested up against one of the walls.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
It took all of B'Elanna's strength not to insult the Doctor when
she saw him and tell him and his whole race to go to hell, but
she stopped herself.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She remembered that he was the only one who
had offered them any type of kindness or relief from pain.
Earlier in the day, Tom had told her what he had done for her
frostbite and hypothermia she had suffered yesterday.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>How the
Hirogen had gone back to their shuttle and retrieved their
medical
supplies as well as the picture of Lucas and Kyle.
Pictures she now held with one hand while the other hand rested
upon Tom's chest so she could feel him breathe.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Both comforted
her.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
But surprisingly, it didn't require any strength at all for her
to ask the alien doctor a favor.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>For herself she never would
have done so, but this was for her loDalwI, her husband.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Doctor, please help him," she begged her dark eyes looked
pleadingly at Brizat.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I'll do what I can, female.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He's severely dehydrated, I can
replenish his fluids easily," he stated as he injected the pilot
with a large ancient looking hypospray.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He reached into his case
and retrieved another similar hypospray and reached across the
man and injected B'Elanna with a dose as well.
<o:p> </o:p>
"There that should help both of you.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>But I can't determine
what's wrong with his skin, it looks like it is burnt?" Brizat
asked in disbelief as he touched his patients red blistered face.
He had never before seen this type of dermal
discoloration on his
Hirogen patients.
<o:p> </o:p>
"It \*is\* burnt--it's a sunburn," she explained.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"A very severe
sunburn.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I've seen him get them before, but never so bad that he
got blisters."
<o:p> </o:p>
"I've never seen such a condition.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Sunburn?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We Hirogen are
apparently immune to this--it appears you are too."
<o:p> </o:p>
"With my skin type I tend to just get darker.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>His skin is very
fair, he burns easily," she explained.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"If we had known of the
conditions before we were beamed down, there were ointments and
lotions we could have applied.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>That is, if we had been allowed,"
she snapped.
<o:p> </o:p>
The Doctor went to take out one of his regenerators, thought
twice, and retrieved one of the Starfleet dermal regenerators and
started to use it on the pilot.
<o:p> </o:p>
Minutes passed, the silence was deafening.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Your mate here, was
very worried about you last night," the Doctor told her, breaking
the quietness.
<o:p> </o:p>
Startled, but not only by his sudden words but the emotion behind
them, B'Elanna
looked up at the doctor.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"And I'm worried about
him today," she said simply in a soft voice.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"He's been through
so much in his life.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We finally . . ." she stopped suddenly
realizing who she was speaking to.
<o:p> </o:p>
"He told me last night that you two were here for some type of
trip--he called it a 'honeymouse'."
<o:p> </o:p>
"A honeymoon," B'Elanna corrected him.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>A small sad smile lit her
face and tears filled her eyes while she continued to stroke
Tom's hair.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The Doctor continued to heal the sunburn, already
having to resort to a second regenerator.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"This trip was suppose
to be our honeymoon, we couldn't take one before because of our
children.
<o:p> </o:p>
"He told me.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He showed me the picture," he said rather softly
for such a large man.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He passed her some salve, and motioned for
her to apply it to Tom's parched lips.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Do you have children, Doctor?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"Yes, four children--two males and two females."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Then maybe you can relate to how Tom
feels, how much he loves
his sons?"
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna took the salve and lovingly spread it over the husband's
dry lips.
<o:p> </o:p>
"You see, he's been very lonely most of his life.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He never
thought that he could be loved.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Actually, he loved me for a long
time before he told me, but it took some time for me to realize
how much I loved him.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We are just starting our lives together
and now it seems like it's going to end, I don't know how he can
possibly be physically ready to participate in the hunt
tomorrow," she said the tears finally fell.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She cursed herself
at being so weak in front of the Hirogen and brusquely wiped them
away with the back of her hand.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I think I know how you feel, Voyager," said the Doctor.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"I too
love my children and my mate, but I haven't seen them in over
four years.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>And now I don't know if I ever will again."
<o:p> </o:p>
"I'm sorry," B'Elanna mumbled, surprised by the Doctor's
admission.
<o:p> </o:p>
"And I can relate to how your mate felt before, for I am lonely
now.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes">
</span>I miss my family and my home.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It's been a long time, too
long," Brizat pushed thoughts of home aside and returned to the
present.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"But for now we have to work to get your mate healed so
he can provide a challenging hunt for tomorrow."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Do you have any idea as to what tomorrow's hunt will entail?"
she asked thinking that she could prepare them better if they had
some idea in advance of what the conditions might be.
<o:p> </o:p>
"No, I don't, they don't tell me, but Commander Lodar will be the
hunter tomorrow and he didn't get to where he is today without
having captured and killed a lot of prey.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>His walls are lined
with a great many relics.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He is envied by many on my planet," he
said with the sound of disgust in his voice that shocked the
half-Klingon.
<o:p> </o:p>
"You don't seem to share their envy?" she asked noticing the look
of revulsion on his face.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I don't, and the more I'm out here the more I hate it, it
doesn't make any sense to me anymore--now I just want to go home.
When I was young I saw it as a great challenge, but now I just
look upon it with disgust.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I can see how much a waste of time
and energy it is, just to decorate your walls and brag to your
friends."
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna stared at Brizat who had turned his face to the far
wall, not believing what he had just admitted the alien female,
and what he had just revealed.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The cell was silent for quite
some time save for the breathing of the three individuals
present.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Finally, Brizat abruptly turned around, strode back
over to the two, and knelt down in front of the half-Klingon.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I'll help you.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I'll help you escape," he said softly so as to
not be overheard by whomever might be monitoring the cell.
<o:p> </o:p>
"You'll help us?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>When?" she whispered.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Had she heard him
correctly?
<o:p> </o:p>
"It can't be tonight, there is too much preparation involved to
accomplish it tonight.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>But if you two can survive the hunt
tomorrow--yes, if you can outwit Lodar, I can help you."
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna was anxious to know what he
was planning.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"How can you
help us?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"I can't go into details now, but be prepared tomorrow, when you
are beamed back to the ship, be prepared to act and act quickly."
<o:p> </o:p>
"But how?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"You'll know what to do, you'll have to trust me," Brizat reached
into the open medical case and extracted the last of the
Starfleet medical supplies and handed them to B'Elanna.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Here
hide these, you might need them tomorrow."
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna just nodded her head as the Doctor closed the case and
exited the cell leaving orders with the guard outside to provide
them with extra food and water.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I think we're going to get out of here Tom," she said very
softly to the still unconscious man.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Rest now my love for you
will need all your strength for tomorrow."
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
It was nearing 1900 hours, and still Alera and Harry couldn't get
the twins to sleep. They had tried just about everything: from
rocking them to reading to them. All to no avail.
<o:p> </o:p>
Suddenly,
Lucas began to wail.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Oh no," Harry groaned, "He probably needs to be changed."
Alera smiled slightly. She patted him on the hand, and stood up,
"I'll change him," she said, "He's more comfortable around me
anyway."
<o:p> </o:p>
Harry rolled his eyes, "Thanks for confirming what I already
know, Lerise."
<o:p> </o:p>
Alera smiled and went into the bedroom.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>While she changed
diapers, Ensign Kim went back to thinking of way to get the twins
to sleep. He suddenly remembered Tom telling him that the
boys loved to fall asleep to music.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Alera," he said, getting up, "I have an idea."
<o:p> </o:p>
The half-Betazoid stepped into the main room. She looked at him
curiously.
<o:p> </o:p>
"What, Harry?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"Tom mentioned to me that the twins liked to fall asleep to
music. Maybe we could try that."
<o:p> </o:p>
Alera nodded, "Good idea. What should we play?"
<o:p> </o:p>
Harry thought for a moment then brightened, "How about this?
Computer, play Harry Music Selection
Beta 4."
<o:p> </o:p>
The computer chirped then music started to play. It was a
soothing duet of a clarinet and a alto sax.
<o:p> </o:p>
"That's lovely," Alera commented, smiling.
<o:p> </o:p>
The two sat on the couch and listened. They then heard wailing
from the other room.
<o:p> </o:p>
"What's wrong now?" Harry asked, getting up.
<o:p> </o:p>
Alera followed. They entered the bedroom to a duet of crying.
Alera picked up Kyle, but his diaper was dry.
<o:p> </o:p>
Harry looked at her as Lucas kicked his tiny feet while the
ensign held him.
<o:p> </o:p>
"They don't seem to like that music," Alera mentioned.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Try
something else."
<o:p> </o:p>
Harry nodded, "Computer, play Harry Music Selection Alpha 6."
<o:p> </o:p>
The computer chirped and soon a soulful sax filled the room. The
put the infants in the crib and almost at once, they began to
cry.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The two of them were so loud, the couple could barely hear
the music.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Harry, they don't like it!" Alera shouted to be heard, "Try
something different. Try what Tom plays!"
<o:p> </o:p>
"I
don't know what he plays for them!" Harry shouted.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Play Tom's favorite music, Harry. Something!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>My teeth are
starting to rattle!"
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom's favorite music! he thought.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He then groaned inwardly.
Tom's favorite music was from the 1960s. Something he called Rock
'n' Roll. It sounded noisy to him.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The songs hardly made sense.
But if it helps them sleep, he thought. Out loud, he said,
"Computer list Lt. Tom Paris' music selections."
<o:p> </o:p>
The computer chirped and listed all the songs that <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Paris had in
his data banks. Harry and Alera shook their heads to clear the
dizziness as the songs scrolled by.
<o:p> </o:p>
"There!" Harry said, pointing to a song, "Computer, play <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Paris
Selection 15."
<o:p> </o:p>
The computer chirped again, and a short guitar cord started
followed by two male voices singing: "It's been a hard day's
night..."
<o:p> </o:p>
The two stared at each other--a hard day's night?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>That didn't
make any sense at all..<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They shook their heads and scrolled the
list again as the
babies wailed on.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Let's try this one," Alera said, hopefully, "Computer, play
<st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Paris Selection 25."
<o:p> </o:p>
Suddenly, a drum beat sounded followed by male voices singing,
"Here we come; walking down the street; we get the funniest looks
from; everyone we meet..."
<o:p> </o:p>
A second later, the drums sounded and the group shouted, "Hey,
hey! We're the Monkees...."
<o:p> </o:p>
The twins cried louder and the couple shook their heads.
<o:p> </o:p>
"I don't even like it," Harry said. The two scrolled again.
"Here," Harry said after a moment. The twins continued to cry,
and he could see it was getting on Alera's strong nerves.
"Computer, play Paris Selection 36."
<o:p> </o:p>
The computer chirped and a familiar song began to play. It was a
song even Harry liked. He smiled and closed his eyes.
<o:p> </o:p>
"What song is this?" Alera asked, confused at Harry's happy
smile.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Tom introduced me to this song once, and I fell in love with it.
It's called 'Start Me Up' by the Rolling
Stones.
<o:p> </o:p>
Alera almost sneered, "It's noisy."
<o:p> </o:p>
Harry nodded, "I know, but it has a nice beat to it."
<o:p> </o:p>
Alera had to agree with that.
<o:p> </o:p>
The twins had quieted down, and the two smiled.
<o:p> </o:p>
Finally, they both thought at the same time.
<o:p> </o:p>
The music stopped, and the next selection played. Almost at once
a guitar cord screamed through the room. The two covered their
ears, and stared at each other.
<o:p> </o:p>
"What the hell is that?!" Alera shouted.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Selection 37?" Harry asked.
<o:p> </o:p>
"It's loud. It'll wake the babies!"
<o:p> </o:p>
"Computer, end selection!"
<o:p> </o:p>
The computer chirped and the noise in the room quieted down. The
two ensigns breathed a sigh of relief. They removed their hands
from their ears, and listened for the cries of the twins.
<o:p> </o:p>
None came.
<o:p> </o:p>
"What was that?" Alera asked again, more calmly.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Computer, name Paris Selection 37."
<o:p> </o:p>
"The name of Paris Selection 37 is 'Rock 'n' Roll All Night.' The
group
is called 'Kiss.'<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They were a rock group from the mid-
1970s to early 1990s."
<o:p> </o:p>
Harry smiled, "Anything to do with the 20th Century. Tom loved
the era.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Sometimes, I think he wishes he lived during that time,
instead of now."
<o:p> </o:p>
Alera returned the smile, "He wouldn't have met B'Elanna."
<o:p> </o:p>
"True, but if he could, he would take her back with him."
<o:p> </o:p>
Alera nodded. The calm moment was broken by one twin then the
other crying.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The Betazoid rolled her eyes.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Computer, play Paris Selection 37 in a loop for sixteen hours,
half volume."
<o:p> </o:p>
The music filled the quarters. Both Alera and Harry covered their
ears as they made themselves comfortable on the couch.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
It was going to be a very long night.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
The following morning the couple awakened and B'Elanna was happy
to note Tom looked much better than the night before. She
silently thanked Brizat for his help and prayed that his promise
of assistance for them to escape would not be forgotten.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>As they
ate the 'doughnuts' that the Hirogen provided, B'Elanna quietly
informed Tom of her conversation with Brizat the night before and
told him that the doctor had given her what was left of the
Starfleet medical supplies.
<o:p> </o:p>
"We just have to get through one more hunt, Tom," B'Elanna
whispered.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Just one more, we have do to it."
<o:p> </o:p>
"We will 'Lanna, we can do anything if it means we can get back
home and to our boys," Tom reassured her and placed a kiss on her
lips. "Come on eat up, we'll need all our strength for this hunt.
Lodar is bound to be the biggest challenge yet."
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna nodded, returned the kiss, and broke off another piece
of the 'doughnut' and ate it.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom and B'Elanna, dressed in the same shorts and shirts as they
had worn the day before, were beamed down once again to the
planet's surface, with the only information provided to them that
the weapon for today's hunt contained a poisonous projectile, and
they were warned that direct contact
with it would surely result
in death.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
As the beam released them, the couple looked around and noted
that the terrain all around them was densely covered with tall
deep green trees and from their branches vines hung.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>All around
the trees ferns and strange exotic flowers grew.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They could hear
the sounds of insects and birds all around them.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Like the last hunt, temperature was hot but was accompanied by a
thick humidity, which made the air very heavy and very difficult
to breathe.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Welcome to paradise," Tom said sarcastically as he slapped away
an insect that lit upon his forearm.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He grabbed his wife by the
hand and led her into the jungle.
<o:p> </o:p>
\*
<o:p> </o:p>
Approximately fifteen minutes later, Lodar beamed down to the
same coordinates, spying the broken fronds of alien fern he was
soon on their trail.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
\*
<o:p> </o:p>
Many kilometers later, Tom pulled his wife up over a fallen tree,
and when they were both on the other side he told her it was time
to take a break and handed
her a bottle of 'water.'<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>B'Elanna
gratefully accepted the fluid and drank a couple of swallows and
handed it to her husband.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"I feel like I'm living in a Equarian steam bath Tom groused as
he too drank from the bottle.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Both Tom and B'Elanna's hair clung
damply to their scalps, their clothing was soaked with
perspiration, and their bodies were peppered with numerous insect
bites.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Thankfully, other than that the bites itched, they didn't
seem to be poisonous.
<o:p> </o:p>
"We have to do something Tom, we just can't keep up this pace
much longer."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>What she really wanted to say was that she doubted
whether Tom could continue much longer.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Even with the Doctor's
ministrations, he still wasn't completely recovered from their
ordeal yesterday.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>B'Elanna could tell that he was weary and on
the verge of collapse.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Maybe we should fight back?" she
suggested.
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom wiped away the sweat from his face with his arm.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"I'm
listening 'Lanna.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Do you have a plan?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"Well there was something
that we used to do in the Maquis.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We
used to booby trap the area around some of our encampments.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We
could set up a trip wire that would fire a projectile -- like an
arrow.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Even if that doesn't kill Lodar, it should slow him down
so we could get further away and buy us some time."
<o:p> </o:p>
"So what do you need, a length of vine and a sharp sick?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"Yeah, I'll get the vine and you can pare down a stick with one
of those rocks over there," she said pointing to a pile of stones
nearby.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Fine, let me give you a boost up that tree, I think if you try
for that thin vine right above your head it might be the easiest
to bring down," Tom suggested.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
Working quickly, soon B'Elanna had the trip vine ready and the
sharpened stick was in position.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Now all the pair had to do
would be to wait for Lodar.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
Long, tense minutes past, until finally a distant noise could be
heard.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"I think I can hear him," B'Elanna whispered from their
position behind a large tree.
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom
nodded his head and peeked out from behind their vantage
point.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Sure enough, the large Hirogen commander was coming their
way, following the path which would lead him right into their
trap.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"I can sense your presence Voyagers!!" Lodar bellowed.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"You
cannot hide from me!!"<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The Hirogen continued toward the pair,
brandishing his weapon .<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
To urge him on further Tom tossed a small stone toward a nearby
bush.
<o:p> </o:p>
Lodar's head snapped towards the direction of the sound.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"I've
got you now!!" Lodar predicted and stepped around a moss covered
tree toward the bush.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Before Lodar reached his target, the large
alien walked into the vine and Tom's 'arrow' was released finding
its mark -- the Hirogen's left thigh.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Lodar screamed in outrage
and pain, dropping to his knees, but never once relinquished the
grip on his weapon.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Quick, B'Elanna, let's get out of here!!!" Tom yelled. With Tom
in the lead, B'Elanna followed him back further into the depths
of the jungle.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Lodar
hearing the pair, immediately raised his weapon and fired
at them twice.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>One shot embedded itself into a nearby tree trunk
but the second nicked B'Elanna's upper right arm.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Tom, I've been hit," B'Elanna informed him.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"But keep moving,
it barely grazed me."
<o:p> </o:p>
Hoping that she did not decide that now was the time to assert
her Klingon half and be stupidly brave, Tom deftly wove his way
amongst the jungle trees and B'Elanna followed.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>After they had
put a few kilometers behind them, they both decided that it was
time to take a water break and rest.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom reached into his pack
and withdrew the second bottle of water and handed it to his
wife.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She grabbed it with her right hand but immediately dropped
it and looked down incredulously at her unresponsive hand.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Let me see where you got hit," Tom insisted.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He helped B'Elanna
pulled off her shirt and saw where the projectile had penetrated
the skin, it was painfully swollen and red.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"We should have
stopped sooner, B'Elanna.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Why didn't you say something?"<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He
searched through B'Elanna's pack and brought out the medical
supplies Brizat had given her and found an antitoxin which he
immediately administered to her.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna looked up at him with those big chocolate brown eyes
that she knew he could never resist.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"B'Elanna, what am I going to do with you?" he asked her.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He
cradled her face with his hands and<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>kissed her tenderly on the
mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Damn it, 'Lanna, you're burning up."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Sorry, I just wanted to get away as far away from Lodar as
possible."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Don't you remember, we BOTH have to finish this hunt to survive.
It was a good thing that Brizat gave you the medical supplies or
you might . . . I don't even want to think about it," he
admitted.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Ssssh, Tom, I'll be fine.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Just let me rest here a few more
minutes, then we will get moving again."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Okay, just a few minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Here lay your head down on my lap and
try and rest while the antitoxin works and I'll
keep an eye out
for that miserable Hirogen.
<o:p> </o:p>
For a change, B'Elanna didn't even argue and laid her head down
upon his lap and immediately went to sleep.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom gave her more than a few minutes before he woke her.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He
hated to wake her. Knowing that she needed to rest even though
the fever had diminished dramatically.
<o:p> </o:p>
"B'Elanna love, wake up," we have to get moving.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Before Lodar
finds us.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Come on."
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna grumbled and rolled over. "It's time already?"
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom nodded and helped her to her feet.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"We still have a few more
hours left before sunset, we have to get moving again," he
explained.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Lead on, husband. You're obedient wife follows," she replied.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Obedient?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Since when?"
<o:p> </o:p>
The laughed quietly at the small joke and Tom and B'Elanna walked
even deeper into the jungle.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
An hour or more had passed, when the pair came across a swamp
which stretched before them as far as they could see.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"What
do we do now?" B'Elanna asked.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Well obviously we can't go around it, or I assume over it, so I
guess we'll just have to go through it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Think of it this way, it
will cover our tracks."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Good idea, but what about the . . . ."
<o:p> </o:p>
"VOYAGERS!!!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I'VE COME FOR YOU!!!!!" bellowed the Hirogen in the
distance.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Damn!! There is no time for 'what-abouts' let's go!!" Tom said.
He grabbed his wife's hand and they waded into the swamp.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
They waded in up to Tom's waist and B'Elanna's chest before they
made a change in course to their right.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They delved deeper into
a half-submerged forest of dangerous looking, dark trees and
strange dark green plants that emitted a noxious smelling purple
mist.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
All around the pair, insects buzzed and dive-bombed them and
birds screeched and flew.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>At first, they tried to swat away the
bugs but finally only bothered if they bugs actually landed on
them and tried to bite.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The birds, which resembled prehistoric
pterodactyls, were
a visual clash of yellows and oranges with red
beaks and talons, would occasionally fly close to the water and
with a swift movement of their vicious talons snatch a fish or
some other type of creature from beneath the surface to eat.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Every once in a while, something resembling a cross between a
snake and a lizard and acting like a playful otter--that Tom had
dubbed a snizzard--would swim past them in the murky water. On
three occasions they had been startled when what they assumed was
a snizzard playfully slithered around their legs beneath the
surface of the water.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Fortunately the snizzards seemed to be
only curious and had not tried to harm them.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>In fact, if
anything, they couldn't help but laugh at their comical antics.
<o:p> </o:p>
\*
<o:p> </o:p>
More time passed and the couple stood clutching each other trying
to catch their breath.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Can you hear him?" B'Elanna asked.
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom held his breath and listened for several moments for Lodar
before responding.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"No, all I can hear are the birds and the
damned
ins . . . .LOOK OUT!!!" Tom screamed as one of the birds,
its talon poised and ready, swooped down at them and he pulled
B'Elanna and himself down under the water.
<o:p> </o:p>
The couple emerged from the swampy water and B'Elanna wiped the
water out of her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Are you okay?" she asked.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"That was
awful close."
<o:p> </o:p>
No answer.
<o:p> </o:p>
The half-Klingon grabbed her husband by his upper arms and looked
into his pain-filled face.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Tom?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>What is it?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"I think one of the bird's claws scratched me."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Turn around, let me look."
<o:p> </o:p>
Across Tom's back she found a mean looking pair of deep
lacerations dripping with blood.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"It's a whole lot more than a
scratch," she pronounced.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Turning around to look again at her
husband, she noted that he was becoming glassy-eyed and his skin
was becoming flushed.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"You don't look so good.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Do you think you
can sit down on the stump over here while I get out the rest of
the medicine that Brizat gave me?"<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom nodded his head and
B'Elanna led him over to the stump and he sat down.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Reaching
into her pack, she extracted the last antitoxin hypospray, and
brought her hand carrying the hypospray up to her husband's neck.
Before she administer it though, Tom collapsed into her arms
knocking the hypospray out of her hand and into the murky waters
of the swamp.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Oh, Kahless!" B'Elanna yelled.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She frantically pulled Tom up to
rest his back against the half-sunken tree trunk.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>While holding
him upright with her left hand so he wouldn't drown, she
frantically searched below the water for the hypospray with the
other hand.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Where had it fallen? she asked herself.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Didn't it fall behind
the trunk or was it to the right? She couldn't recall.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Long
minutes passed and still she hadn't located the precious vial of
antitoxin.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>From beneath her left hand, she could tell that Tom's
breathing was becoming more and more labored, the poison was
working its way into his system.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She had to find that vial soon.
Straining to achieve as great
a reach as possible, finally her
fingers felt the familiar smooth texture of the hypospray and
with one more stretch she was able to clasp the hypospray in her
hand and retrieve it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Bringing it out of the water, she checked
to make sure that the vial was undamaged--and thanking Kahless
that it was still intact--she injected the entire contents into
Tom's neck.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
More tense minutes passed.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Come on, Tom, wake up," B'Elanna
pleaded.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Please let there be enough antitoxin to combat the
poison, she pleaded silently. Grabbing him by he shoulders she
shook him.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Tom, please wake up!"
<o:p> </o:p>
He finally moaned and opened his cerulean eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>B'Elanna sighed
in relief, brushed his hair away from his face, and kissed him.
He was awake, he was alive.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>There was hope.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Hope that they
would survive.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Hope that they would complete the hunt.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>And most
importantly, hope that they would see Kyle and Lucas again.
<o:p> </o:p>
"B'Elanna?" he murmured.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Yes, Tom, it's me.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Do you remember where we are?"
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom's
blurred gaze took in the miserable surroundings, and nodded
his head, he tongue swollen in his mouth he replied with
difficulty, "ummm. . .Lodar. . .the hunt."
<o:p> </o:p>
"That's right, we were attacked by one of those hideous birds."
<o:p> </o:p>
He recalled the attack and could feel the pain in his back.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"I
remember, my back."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Yes.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Apparently their talons not only razor sharp but are also
poisonous.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I've given you the last antitoxin spray, hopefully
you'll be all right now."
<o:p> </o:p>
He nodded his head and tried to get to his feet.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"We have to get
moving, B'Elanna."
<o:p> </o:p>
"We will, but I'm going to help you," she said in a tone of voice
that he knew from experience meant that she wouldn't take 'no'
for an answer and put her arm around Tom's waist to support him.
"I think we only have about another hour before the sunsets."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Okay, let's get going."
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
Lodar trudged through the swamp, pausing every few minutes to
listen for the
sounds of the humans.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>At the conclusion of the
other three hunts, he had surmised that the younger hunters
having not hunted for so long was the reason they had been
unsuccessful.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Now he knew the real reason, the humans were
very worthy adversaries--they provided a significant challenge.
The humans would also provide many, many more hunts he concluded.
After this hunt, if they survived, he would allow them to rest
and recover, as they made their way to another planet. Once there
they would participate in another set of hunts.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He stopped his
musings and listened again.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Surely, that had been a different
sound, he thought.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It sounded like a splash...and surely he had
heard the female's voice.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He turned and waded through the
water towards the sound.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
Gradually the daylight started to dim and sunset was quickly
approaching.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Hurry, Tom," B'Elanna pleaded as she looked behind them.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"We
have to keep moving.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I can see Lodar."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom tried to keep up but the poison was still
in his system.
There hadn't been enough antitoxin to combat the bird's venom.
Every so often he would stumble and thanks to B'Elanna's Klingon
strength, she would pull him back up again and they would
continue to move along.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Finally, though Tom collapsed for one last time.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"I'm sorry,
B'Elanna.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I'm sorry."
<o:p> </o:p>
"You \*should\* be sorry!"<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The deep Hirogen voice yelled in the
from about 30 meters away.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom and B'Elanna looked at each other.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Their eyes saying what
their voices couldn't.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Each expressing their sadness at having
come so close to surviving this last hunt, only to lose in the
end and having forfeited any chance at seeing Kyle and Lucas
again.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"You should be sorry, you didn't provide a better hunt!!" Lodar
bragged, pleased that he would be the one to kill the humans.
True, his plans for future hunts would not happen, but being the
leader, it was only fitting that he be the one to kill the prey.
He brought down his weapon and pointed at the female as he
continued
to close the gap between them.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Quick, B'Elanna run," Tom pleaded.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Maybe you will have a
chance the sun is just about to set."
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna looked at her husband and then Lodar, not knowing what
to do.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She was frozen to the spot.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Then something unexpectedly happened.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Just as the sun was about
to vanish over the horizon and Lodar was about to discharge the
weapon, a pair of frolicking snizzards happily slithered around
the Hirogens waist and dived down and swirled around his legs.
Lodar tried to kick at the creatures to warn them away, but the
two snizzards mistook it for play and only became more
rambunctious until Lodar finally fell face first into the swamp
just as the sun finally disappeared.
<o:p> </o:p>
A familiar tickling sensation washed over Tom and B'Elanna and
they were transported once again back to the Hirogen ship.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
When the beam released them, B'Elanna called out to Brizat. She
looked around the Hirogen sickbay then spotted the biobed. She
half-dragged, half-carried
Tom over to the bed.
<o:p> </o:p>
"What's wrong?!" Brizat's voice came to her ears.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna looked up to see the Hirogen doctor enter the room. He
saw the half-Klingon trying to keep the pilot from falling to the
floor. He hurried over to them, and easily lifted Tom up onto the
bed. He stared at the pilot's face as he scanned him.
<o:p> </o:p>
"He's been poisoned," B'Elanna mentioned. "The antitoxin isn't
working."
<o:p> </o:p>
Brizat shook his head, "From the marks, it appears that your mate
was attacked by a Taik. Their talons are full of poison. I'll try
to help him, but the poison is very strong."
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna nodded. She looked at Tom, who was barely breathing. She
shivered as she remembered the last time he looked like this,
those many months ago when he had taken the drug overdose.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She
lovingly brushed his hair off his face, and prayed that he would
make it.
Brizat used a dermal regenerator to heal the deep cuts on Tom's
back. He then went over to a counter across the room and picked
up a hypospray.
He returned to the biobed and injected the
contents into Tom's neck.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Hopefully, this should help until you get back to your ship.
It's the best I can do."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Thank you Doctor."
<o:p> </o:p>
After awhile, Tom began to cough then open his eyes.
<o:p> </o:p>
"You must hurry, if my plan is going to work.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The shuttlebay
doors have been programed to open in exactly 32.5 seconds,"
Brizat stated,"and Lodar will be returning soon."
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna nodded as she and Brizat helped Tom off the biobed. She
knew that her husband needed rest, but now was not the time.
They had to make their escape now, it was there only chance.
<o:p> </o:p>
Leaving them, Brizat went over to a wall console and tapped in a
few commands. He then waved to the couple as they disappeared
from view.
<o:p> </o:p>
I hope they make it, the Hirogen doctor prayed as he prepared
to make it look as if they had attacked him.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
The transported beam released the couple in the Hirogens'
shuttlebay.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Do you think
you can fly?" B'Elanna asked the pilot.
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom ran a shaky hand through his blond hair. He took a deep
breath and nodded.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Tom felt as though he could do anything if it
meant that he and B'Elanna would see their boys again. Then
leading his wife into their shuttle, he settled in the pilot's
chair as B'Elanna sat next to him.
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom quickly went through the pre-flight check. Wiping his sweaty
forehead he concentrated on the controls. He then looked up to
see the bay doors opening. Gunning the engines, he took the craft
out into space.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna scanned for Voyager, finding the ship three light-years
away from their position. She relayed the coordinates to Tom, and
hoped the Hirogen hadn't noticed their escape. Tom punched in the
coordinates and went to warp two.
<o:p> </o:p>
"We're being hailed!" B'Elanna exclaimed a moment later. "It's
Lodar."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Damn," Tom growled as he shook the cobwebs out of his head, "It
didn't take them long, did it?"
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna looked at Tom. He
was sweating more now, and he was
deathly pale. She was very worried.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Shall we reply?" B'Elanna asked.
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom looked at her and shook his head. He knew what Lodar would
say, and he didn't care to hear it right now. He returned his
attention to the view screen.
<o:p> </o:p>
A moment later, the shuttle was rocked by a blast. The couple
jerked forward and the craft dropped out of warp.
<o:p> </o:p>
"We lost warp engines!" B'Elanna growled between her teeth.
"They're powering up weapons."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Fire something at them," Tom said in desperation as he moved the
craft out of the Hirogens' path.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna fired back on the Hirogen ship, but it barely made a
dent in their shields. The two were jerked forward again as the
shuttle was hit.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"Our shields are at thirty percent. Tom, you
have to do something!"
<o:p> </o:p>
"I'm trying!" Tom shouted. Through his glazed-over eyes, he could
barely see the controls in front of him, and his racing heart
only made the poison act faster. He suddenly
felt light-headed.
Tom shook his head to try to clear his vision, but only made it
worse and he felt like he was going to pass out.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He could barely
think now as he blindly tapped at the controls.
<o:p> </o:p>
The shuttle avoided the next hit. B'Elanna fired back at the
Hirogen and finally was able to cause some damage to their
shields. She then sent out a distress signal to Voyager. "I sent
a distress signal," she told Tom.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"The Hirogens' shields are at
fifty percent."
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom said nothing. He could barely hear her as it took all of his
concentration to fly the craft.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The poison was attacking his
system with a vengeance, and it made him dizzy and sick to his
stomach. He could barely breathe now and he was beginning to
panic. He tried another maneuver and fortunately avoided another
blast from the Hirogen.
<o:p> </o:p>
The next hit though, struck their shuttle and took out their
weapons. A console behind B'Elanna exploded. She jumped to her
feet and tried to put the flames out with an emergency blanket
she found. B'Elanna
turned around after the flames were out and
her eyes opened wide. There before them was Voyager.
<o:p> </o:p>
"They found us!" B'Elanna shouted.
<o:p> </o:p>
When she didn't get an answer she looked at Tom. A chill went up
her spine when she realized that he hadn't heard her and wasn't
moving.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You can't die on me, she thought, you can't!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She tried
to shake him awake, but all he did was mumble. She relaxed a bit,
thankful that he was still alive.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna gently but quickly moved Tom over to the co-pilot's
seat. She knew she wasn't as good a pilot as he was, but she
had o try. The engineer sat down in the pilot's chair
and began to input commands.
<o:p> </o:p>
The shuttle avoided another attack. B'Elanna looked up and saw
the reason why, Voyager was firing on the Hirogen ship. Smiling
in delight she typed in another command to take the shuttle to
the other side of Voyager.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Just keep them at bay long enough for me to get inside,"
B'Elanna whispered as she rounded the ship.
<o:p> </o:p>
A moment later, Voyager hailed her.
<o:p> </o:p>
"B'Elanna here, Captain," she began to explain. "Tom's been hurt.
He needs medical attention immediately."
<o:p> </o:p>
"We'll try to keep the Hirogen at bay, B'Elanna. Get that shuttle
in."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Aye, aye, Captain. Torres out."
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna maneuvered the craft as gently as possible behind
Voyager. All the while, she could see the Hirogen ship being
pounded by phaser fire. It barely fought back, they must be
losing power.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She prayed silently that Brizat would survive the
attack and see his family again.
<o:p> </o:p>
The half-Klingon saw the shuttlebay doors opening for her. She
slowly and cautiously moved the craft toward the doors and held
her breath as she eased the shuttle inside. She only let go of
her breath when she felt the shuttle land on the platform.
<o:p> </o:p>
"We're here," she said to Tom, who only moaned.
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna then saw her husband disappear in a blue beam. Wasting
no time, she quickly left the shuttle and headed toward Sickbay.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
B'Elanna sped through the
corridors of Voyager en route to
Sickbay, her own injuries and exhaustion temporarily forgotten.
Her only thought was to get to Tom as quickly as possible.
<o:p> </o:p>
Entering Sickbay, she saw that the Doctor and Kes were already
working on her husband and the medical arch had been activated.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Is he . . . . all right, . . . Doctor?" B'Elanna blurted out in
between breaths.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She approached the head of the biobed and
brushed her hands lovingly over his hair.
<o:p> </o:p>
The EMH looked up from his patient at the sound of her voice, and
noticed her bedraggled appearance.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"We are just completing the
examination and I've given him a strong dose of antitoxin.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I
think he'll be fine given time, he needs to rest. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>From the looks
of it," the EMH replied looking her over with a discreet eye,
"you should have been beamed into Sickbay as well, Lieutenant.
In fact," he turned to his assistant, "Kes, will you help
B'Elanna up on to the other biobed."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Of course, Doctor," the petite Ocampan
replied.
<o:p> </o:p>
"But Doctor?" the half-Klingon argued.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>No one was going to
separate her from her mate.
<o:p> </o:p>
"No arguments, Lieutenant.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>That's an order!" the Doctor replied
firmly as he grabbed his medical tricorder.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"But Tom?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The children?" she continued to argue but surprisingly
didn't offer any resistance as Kes settled her down on the biobed
next to Tom's.
<o:p> </o:p>
"Mr. Paris needs his rest and so do you.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The boys are doing
fine, I wish I could say the same for Mr. Kim and Ms. Lerise."
Noticing B'Elanna's quizzical expression, he quickly added:
"Let's just say that looking after Kyle and Lucas was a little
bit more challenging than they originally bargained for.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Believe
me, both the boys are just fine and you both can see them as soon
as you wake up."
<o:p> </o:p>
That being said, Kes injected a hypospray into B'Elanna's neck
and the half-Klingon quickly fell asleep.
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
The next morning, there was several people waiting in the hall
outside of Sickbay
to see the two patients.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Harry and Alera tired from another restless night trying to get
the boys to sleep, sat just outside of Sickbay with Kyle and
Lucas.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Each boy commandeered a lap and was eager to see their
parents again.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
The Captain and the First Officer stood on the other side of the
hall talking between themselves, every once in a while the words
'Hirogen,' 'Tom,' and 'B'Elanna' could be heard, they were
obviously talking and making assumptions about what Tom and
B'Elanna had experienced at the hands of the Hirogen.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Even
Neelix and Tuvok had made a brief appearance before they had to
return to their duties, but they promised that they would return.
<o:p> </o:p>
Finally, the Doctor came to the door and bade them all to enter,
but warned them not to stay too long.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>When they walked in, they
saw that a newly healed and well rested Tom and B'Elanna were
both sitting up in bed, in fact the two biobeds had been pushed
together.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Upon waking that morning, both insisted that if they
had to stay in Sickbay for the
day that they be as close as
possible. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The EMH not wanting to upset them for a change
relented and now they sat, both in bed, side by side, eagerly
awaiting the arrival of their guests, but in particular their
boys.
<o:p> </o:p>
Seeing their parents for the first time in what seemed like a
long time both boys squealed with delight. This elicited grins
and laughter from not only Tom and B'Elanna, but from everyone
else too.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Alera passed Lucas to Tom and Harry deposited Kyle
into B'Elanna's eager arms.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>For a while the only conversation of
any kind to be heard were the questions and comments the parents
directed at their children. Which in turn were intermingled with
answering giggles and laughter from the boys.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Obviously all were
thrilled with being reunited.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The on-lookers looked at them and
exchanged knowing looks at each other.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Each deciding on their
own, that their own personal visit with Tom and B'Elanna would
have to wait until the boys were through--and by the looks of
things that could take a while.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Tom, B'Elanna,
we'll come by later for the debriefing" said the
captain, "Chakotay and I are looking forward to hearing what
happened."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
Tom who had just given a giggling Lucas a wet raspberry on his
belly button, acknowledged the Captain with a nod of the head, as
did a smiling B'Elanna who was tweaking Kyle's pert nose.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>With
a wave of her hand the Captain and her First Officer exited
Sickbay.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
"Well, I guess you two--excuse me you four--would like some time
alone." chirped Harry.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"What do you say we come back for the
boys in an hour?"
<o:p> </o:p>
"That'd be fine Harry," B'Elanna said.
<o:p> </o:p>
"And thank you for looking after our little Flyboys," Tom added.
"I understand that they were a handful?"
<o:p> </o:p>
Harry was tempted to tell the two all of the trials and
tribulations that he and Alera had to bear while they were
gone, but suddenly none of it seemed to matter.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"They were no
problem at all, what gave you that idea?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They were good kids."
<o:p> </o:p>
"Little
angels, both of them," Alera said with a sweet smile.
She was glowing inside for she could sense the absolute joy that
flowed from the four on the bed.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She then grabbed Harry by the
hand and led him out of Sickbay.
<o:p> </o:p>
"They look so happy," Harry remarked as the Sickbay door slid
shut behind them.
<o:p> </o:p>
"They sure do.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>By the way, Harry, did I ever tell you that we
have a history of twins on my side of the family?"
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
Finis
<o:p> </o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
E-MAIL REQUEST:<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>
<o:p> </o:p>
The authors of course love to receive e-mail.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Please e-mail us
both:
<o:p> </o:p>
<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Marleena at blacjac@juno.com
<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>PJ in NH at kelhapam@lr.net
<o:p> </o:p>
and let us know if you liked the story.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>

