By Erin_Cale
Disclaimer: See first part.
***
Meanwhile, in another part of the ship, Tom Paris was looking around in awe. �Wow,� he muttered. �This ship is gorgeous.�
�Thank you,� said a voice, seemingly out of nowhere. The whole gang spun in a circle to see who had spoken. However, nobody was in sight.
�Who said that?� B�Elanna asked, taking a defensive posture in front of Tom and their daughter.
�I did.� A hologram appeared out of nowhere, startling all of them except for the doctor.
�Hello. You must be the ship,� the doctor said, exquisitely interested in this sentient ship.
�In holographic form, yes.� The hologram bowed gracefully.
�How are you sentient?� B�Elanna asked.
�It is a long process. You most likely wouldn�t understand the details since it involves technology you�re not familiar with.�
�Try me.� The hologram hesitated, not wanting to reveal anything about her making to these strangers. �Please? I�d like to know.�
�I would tell you, but your companions would be bored.�
�Well, they can go exploring while we talk.�
�Yes, I�d love to do that,� the doctor interrupted. �Could I see your infirmary?�
The others shrugged, willing to let the doctor make the first choice about where to visit. The hologram considered for a moment then said, �All right. Head down that way, take your second right, then go down two decks. It will be at the end of that hallway.�
�Thank you.� The doctor smiled eagerly and hurried ahead while B�Elanna stayed behind with Rommie�s hologram.
B'Elanna didn�t even watch as her husband went around the corner before she continued her conversation with the hologram. �So... You were saying?�
***