Disclaimers: Characters owned by Paramount. No harm, no foul.

Series: Star Trek, Voyager

Rating: NC 17 Chakotay/Paris

Date: March 21, 2001

Notes: I'm probably going to catch it hot for some parts of this story, I'm sorry but the Muse kissed me and this is what happened.

 

 

FOR THE HONOR OF MY HOUSE

 

 

"Tom, we have to discuss these things. After all we aren't in

exactly the most secure of positions. Something could happen to

either one of us and our daughter must be provided for."

 

"B'Elanna, I don't want to talk about it! Nothing is going to happen

to us." Tom gathered his wife in his arms trying to reassure her. "I

love you and I never want to lose you. Talking about these things is

difficult."

 

"My mate, you know as well as I that these preparations must be seen

to. We are the start of a new house, albeit one that may never see

the Klingon homeworld. We have to be certain that every ritual

is followed."

 

"What happened to the fiery woman who couldn't accept her Klingon

heritage?"

 

"She became the fiery Kilgon that you married." B'Elanna answered

and kissed him roughly.

 

"B'Elanna I leave it in you capable hands to make the necessary

preparations. I will abide by whatever you dictate. Now please can

we just let the subject drop for now and enjoy being together and off

duty for a change?"

 

"Yes, Tom." She gave him a heated look and growled, leaning close to

bite his neck.

 

 

Later that day in Sickbay.

 

"Computer, activate EMH."

 

The doctor shimmered into view with his standard greeting. "Please

state the nature of the medical emergency."

 

"Doctor there's no emergency, I needed to ask you some questions

however."

 

"Alright Lt. Torres, I assume the questions are pertaining to your

pregnancy?"

 

"No."

 

"What do they pertain to?"

 

"Is it possible for a human male to carry a child?"

 

"Are you planning on letting Mr. Paris carry the baby the final

trimester?"

 

"No Doctor, I wouldn't dream of giving up this time with my

daughter. This is strictly research on a private matter."

 

"Theoretically, yes and artificial womb could be implanted into the

abdominal cavity of a male. The `mother' would be on constant bed

rest, the male body just doesn't have the resilience that a female

body would. I believe that after the second month however for the

good of the `mother' as well as the child that the baby should be

moved into a special chamber and allowed to continue to grow normally

until the end of the gestation period."

 

"Thank you doctor you have been a great help."

 

"I don't even want to know what you're up to do I Lt. Torres?"

 

"Not at the present time Doctor. However I'm sure that I will have

to confide in someone soon. I'm sorry, I have to report to

Engineering."

 

B'Elanna turned and strode from Sickbay and entered the turbo

lift. "Engineering." The lift began its rapid movement.

 

B'Elanna touched her combadge. "Torres to Chakotay."

 

"Go ahead B'Elanna."

 

"Commander, I need to make an appointment with the Captain."

 

"Is something the matter?"

 

"No, I just need to speak with her. I also need to have some time

with you."

 

"Well, I have plenty of time presently. Can I meet you somewhere?"

 

"Could we meet at my quarters say in about 15 minutes? That is if

it's proper for a commanding officer to be seen entering the quarters

of a married crewman."

 

"I'll be there, what about your husband?"

 

"Sorry Chakotay, just me."

 

"Understood. I'll setup a meeting with Capt. Janeway and let you

know about the time then. Chakotay out." The comlink was severed.

 

B'Elanna stopped the turbo lift and ordered it to deposit her on the

deck where her and Tom's quarters were located. As the doors opened

she stepped into the corridor and made her way to her door. The

retinal scanner recognized her and immediately the doors whooshed

open. She walked in and made her way to the replicator.

 

"Computer, chamomile tea, hot."

 

The replicator made and humming and a steaming cup of herbal tea

materialized on the tiny platform. She took the cup and sat down on

one of the chairs at the table. This was going to be a long

conversation and she would need her wits about her.

 

The door chime sounded, pulling her out of her thoughts.

 

"Enter." As she said the word the doors again opened allowing her

former Marquis captain entrance to the standard suite of rooms.

 

"Glad you could make it, Commander."

 

"B'Elanna please we're in private."

 

"Thank you for coming Chakotay. I need to talk to you about some

plans."

 

"Plans concerning what?"

 

"Either Tom's or my death."

 

Chakotay's face took on a pained expression as he took his seat.

 

 

"B'Elanna, this is all a great shock, I'll need some time to consider

it. Meanwhile you're appointment with the Captain is waiting. If

fact you've got just enough time to make it."

 

"Damn!" B'Elanna hit her combadge, "Torres to Captain."

 

"Janeway here go ahead."

 

"Captain, I'm sorry I'm on my way for our appointment."

 

"Don't worry about it B'Elanna. Where are you?"

 

"I'm in my quarters."

 

"If I'm not being to forward, would it be alright if I come there? I

really need a break from the bridge."

 

B'Elanna's eyes grew wide. The Captain was coming here, to her

quarters.

 

"Certainly Captain, should I have a pot of coffee waiting?"

 

"That sounds wonderful, I'm on the way. Janeway out."

 

The trip to her and tom's quarters only took a few minutes from the

Bridge. B'Elanna ordered the replicator to produce a pot of the

Captain favorite blend of rigillian coffee and a mug. She took these

and set them on the table. Then went to the bedroom and retrieved an

ancient hidebound tome. This she also placed on the table within

arms reach, she'd probably have to show Janeway the scriptures that

made up the laws that she wanted to be followed in the event

something happened either to her or her husband.

 

The chimes rang announcing her visitor's arrival.

 

"Enter." The doors opened and the Captain entered smiling at her

Chief of Engineering.

 

"Well B'Elanna, what did you wish to discuss with me?"

 

"Please Captain have a seat, this will probably take a while."

 

Janeway moved to the table and poured herself a mug of coffee. Then

moved back to the sofa and seated herself facing B'Elanna.

 

"Captain, as members of Voyager's command staff both Tom and I are

sometimes in danger. In the event that something should ever happen

to one of us I need to be certain that specific Klingon rituals and

laws are observed."

 

"Can I ask why? I mean the young woman I met seven years ago was

battling her Klingon half. Why now do you feel the need to follow

the precepts of the Klingon book of Law?

 

"Captain, Tom and I are the beginning of a new house. I know this

may be hard for you to understand, I know it was for Tom, but this is

very important to me. Also the welfare of our child depends on this."

 

"Your child is a member of this crew. Her welfare would be taken

care of just as with the child of any of my crew."

 

"Captain, one day we will return to the Alpha Quadrant, and ever

since we helped the group of Klingons here I have felt a pull back to

my heritage. If my daughter is ever to be accepted in the Klingon

hierarchy there are laws that must be followed and documented."

 

"Alright, what specifically?" Asked the Captain her interest piqued.

 

 

 

Later that evening after her duty shift B'Elanna made her way to the

holodeck. She had booked one hour that should be enough time for

what she needed to do. The massive doors parted and she entered.

 

"Computer engage privacy lock; code Torres gamma delta beta."

 

"Privacy lock engaged." Came the automated response.

 

"Begin recording on my mark. Capture my appearance and overlay

Klingon battle armor. Mark…"

 

 

"Tom what do you feel like for dinner?"

 

"How about roast beef?" Tom asked hopefully. He still had trouble

eating some Klingon cuisine.

 

B'Elanna smiled and turned to the replicator. "Computer roast beef

with mashed potatoes and gravy with peas and carrots two meals." The

machine began to hum and two plates containing the specified meal

materialized on the platform. B'Elanna took placed the plates on the

table and she and her husband sat down to a leisurely meal.

 

About half way through dinner her combadge chirped. "Chakotay to

Torres."

 

"Torres here go ahead." She replied.

 

"B'Elanna, I've thought about what we talked about today and I would

be honored to accept."

 

"Thank you Commander."

 

"You're welcome. Chakotay out."

 

"What was that all about?" Tom asked perplexed.

 

"Nothing I just asked Chakotay if he'd oversee the next level 4

diagnostic of the warp engines. You know we have this pilot who is

so fussy, if the harmonics aren't perfect he just isn't happy."

 

"Hey! Now I don't bring work home with me. But if you're opening up

to floor…" His sentence was cut off short by the look in his wife's

eyes and the growl that escaped her lips.

 

"Watch it Starfleet! I might take you as prisoner."

 

"Please do." He said softly batting his long lashes at her. "It's

been so long."

 

 

 

Over the next few days, B'Elanna had numerous meetings with the

ship's doctor, Chakotay, and Captain Janeway. She had to make sure

that all contingencies were covered. There were so many details that

would have to be worked out in the event that either she or Tom met

with untimely deaths.

 

Finally everything was setup and all the plans had been made, with

just a few additions required by the First Officer. She entered the

holodeck and began the process of creating a program. The entire

ship would be witness to this event should it be necessary and all of

them could stand before the Klingon High Council should a challenge

to the rites be issued.

 

"Computer, save program as Torres Omega. File this under the ship's

EMH database and recognize only his code key to access. End Program."

 

"Program is filed, access restricted." Replied the female voice of

Voyager's computer.

 

The holodeck reverted to its unadorned state. B'Elanna signed deeply

feeling that finally this arduous task was completed and she could

get back to the business of running the most efficient Engineering

section that Starfleet would ever have the honor of claiming.

 

She exited the room and made her way to her quarters. The main room

was dark when she entered. Tom was in the shower from the sound of

things. He had become a fan of Klingon opera since their marriage,

and was singing at the top of his lungs in the shower. B'Elanna

didn't have the heart to tell him that he was totally butchering the

piece of music.

 

"Honey! I'm home!" B'Elanna exclaimed. What the hell, tonight

she'd play on of his little games.

 

"B'Elanna!" Tom leaned out of the shower a huge smile splitting his

face. "How was your day, Darling?"

 

Before B'Elanna could answer the red alert klaxon sounded throughout

the ship.

 

"Damn! It never fails!" Tom swore, turning and quickly rinsing and

then stepping out of the shower. As he began quickly drying off his

wife quickly leaned in and gave him a deep kiss."

 

"What's that for?"

 

"Just in case. Tom, I love you." B'Elanna turned and quickly left

for her Engineering section. If it were going to be shook apart she

would be there to pick up the pieces.

 

Tom quickly put on his uniform and ran to the turbo lift.

 

"Bridge!"

The lift began its rapid assent and deposited him on the ship's

bridge. Tom quickly made his way to his console. The ensign manning

the post moved aside allowing Tom to seat himself at the controls.

When Tom finally let himself look at the view screen he was taken

aback by the view.

 

"Mr. Paris, turn the ship in the wave! Keep the nose up!" Captain

Janeway's order snapped him out of it. His hands flew over this

control panel immediately making the necessary adjustments to the

ships position.

 

"All hands brace for impact!" Janeway's order was transmitted over

com system throughout the entire ship.

 

What happened next was devastating. Voyager was tossed like a toy.

The inertial dampeners couldn't compensate for the sudden strain and

the members of the crew were thrown around inside the ship like tiny

snowflakes inside of a child's snow globe.

 

Janeway pulled herself to her feet near the door to the turbo lift.

She almost called for a report but noticed Tuvok was out cold near

the door to her ready room. She made her way to the tactical

station. Oh god, systems were out everywhere. Life support was

stable, some sections had only emergency lighting some had none.

 

"Is everyone alright?" She asked her bridge staff.

 

There were numerous affirmative answers from around the room as her

staff made their way back to their stations. Tuvok who had recovered

moved to take over at tactical.

 

"Tuvok, are you alright?" Janeway asked her voice was a whisper.

 

"Yes, Captain." The Vulcan replied.

 

"Report!"

 

"Damage to the primary hull, primary and secondary systems down, warp

engines offline, impulse engines offline. Repair teams are being

dispatched. Numerous casualties all over the ship."

 

"Bridge to Engineering."

 

"Engineering go ahead, Captain." it was Vorick, B'Elanna's assistant

chief engineer.

 

"Lt. Vorick, how badly were the engines damaged?" Janeway held her

breath.

 

"All damage is repairable Captain Janeway. It will take sometime to

get both impulse and warp engines back online however."

 

"Very good Lieutenant. Where is Lt Torres?" `Probably babying those

engines.' Janeway mused to herself.

"Captain Janeway, Lt. Torres was beamed to sickbay." The Vulcan's

reply was as cool as if he'd just delivered a weather report.

 

Janeway almost commed the doctor then reconsidered.

 

"Chakotay you have the con, Mr. Paris you're with me." The turbo

lift opened.

 

"Tom, I'm sure she's fine. Probably just got shook up."

 

"I hope so Captain." It was the only response that he could muster.

 

Just then his combadge chirped. He slapped it.

 

"Sickbay to Lt. Paris."

 

"Doc is she alright?"

 

"Get here now Mr. Paris."

 

"The Captain and I are on the way." He answered and touched his

badge again closing the channel.

 

Tom swallowed hard and forgot that Janeway was beside him and broke

into a full run heading down the corridor towards Sickbay. Janeway

was right behind him, a worried look on her face.

 

Tom flew through the door and was stopped immediately by the sight of

his wife lying prone on a biobed. The monitor above her was at a

steady flat line. Beside her was what looked like a borg maturation

chamber.

 

"Tom, I'm sorry." Started the holographic doctor.

 

Tom pushed past him and made his way to his wife. Tears rolling

freely down his face he did the one thing that he knew to do.

Holding open her eyelids he threw his head back and roared at the top

of his lungs.

 

"Rarrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!"

 

A female voice joined his.

 

"Rarrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!"

 

"Be warned, Kahless! There comes a great warrior! She has fought

enemies that no other Klingon has ever seen!"

 

Tom released her eyelids and turned away. It was then, after

performing the Klingon equivalent to a burial that the sobs started.

 

Kathryn reached out taking the young pilot in her arms. His head

cradled on her shoulder.

 

"Tom, I'm so sorry." The tears were flowing down her cheeks. How

could this happen?

 

Tom couldn't answer he just held on and cried and cried. Finally, he

was able to compose himself enough to walk to the doctor's office.

 

"Doctor, what happened?" Janeway asked the hologram?

 

"From what I've been able to find out, she was on the upper deck in

engineering when the wave hit. B'Elanna was tossed over the railing

and fell to the deck below. Her neck was snapped, she died

instantly."

 

"The baby?"

 

"Luckily Seven had been working on a maturation chamber and I was

able to transfer the child into it using the surgical transporters."

 

"Now we've got a grief-stricken man on our hands."

 

"I suggest that you contact Commander Chakotay, he has been acting as

ships councilor and possibly will be able to help Mr. Paris."

 

"Good idea, but I'm here now."

 

Janeway made her way to Tom. He looked like hell, one look told her

that it was only with a will made of steel and he was able to hold

the grief in check.

 

"Tom."

 

"Yes Captain."

 

"No, it's Kathryn. I'm not here as a commanding officer right now. I'm

here as a friend."

 

"Kathryn, what do I do now?" The damn almost broke. However he

managed to push back the flood.

 

"First, you're going to come with me, I'm going to take you to your

quarters. Then we'll take it minute by minute, alright?"

 

The blonde man nodded his head. Kathryn reached out and took his hand

and led him out of Sickbay. They made their way to the turbolift and

Kathryn ordered the level that Tom's quarters were on.

 

"Tom, I'm putting you on leave starting immediately. Also Commander

Chakotay will be staying with you for a while. I don't think you

need to be alone right now."

 

Tom just nodded. It was all the response that he was capable of

right now.

 

Kathryn led him to his door, thankfully the doors were automatic and

opened at Tom's approach she took him inside and seated him on the

sofa.

 

"Do you need anything?"

 

"No Kathryn, not right now."

 

Janeway touched her combadge. "Janeway to Chakotay."

 

"Yes, Captain?"

 

"Chakotay, you're needed here please meet me at the Paris quarters."

 

"On my way."

 

 Chakotay closed the com channel and turned to Tuvok.

 

"Mr. Tuvok you have the con."

 

Then he turned and left the bridge. Something must be wrong. Oh

Great Spirit not B'Elanna.

 

As the turbolift disgorged him on the appropriate level, Chakotay

wondered what it would take to calm the grieving young man.

 

~*~

Kathryn was sitting beside Tom on the sofa she held a box of tissue

that she had replicated. Tom just sat there silently tears flowing.

It was almost more than she could bear.

 

The door chime rang. Kathryn walked over to the door and pressed the

button to open it. Chakotay walked in.

 

Tom sprang to his feet and ran to Chakotay, burying his head in the

big man's shoulder. Chakotay held Tom tightly and he too began to cry.

Minutes passed by; finally Tom was able to allow Chakotay to seat him

back on the sofa.

 

"Chakotay, it seems he's more at ease with you." Janeway said

quietly.

 

"Kathryn, I don't know why."

 

"Just help him Chakotay, you're both off duty until further notice."

She shifted her gaze to the younger man, "Tom, if you need anything,

you're to call me. Understand."

 

"Yes, Ma'am."

 

"I'm going to the leave now, but Chakotay is staying. Is that

alright or do you need to be alone?"

 

"NO! Please don't."

 

"It's ok Tom, I'm not going anywhere. The doctor prescribed a

tranquilizer, I'm going to give you one and I think you'll need to

sleep. Is that alright?"

 

Tom nodded.

 

"Kathryn, we'll be ok."

 

Janeway turned and left to go back to the bridge.

 

Chakotay stood up and moved closer to Tom and pressed the hypospray

against his neck. The instrument made a brief hiss as it injected

the medicine into the man's bloodstream.

 

"Ok Tom, let's get you in bed." Chakotay said as he gently helped he

to his feet and led him into the sleeping room.

 

"I'm about to fall down,"

 

"It's a strong tranquilizer Tom, you sit on the bed and I'll get that

uniform off."

 

Tom did as he was told and Chakotay helped him out of the confining

uniform. He found a baggy shirt and a pair of sleep pants in a

drawer.

 

"Do you want these?" He asked Tom and turned to find that the he had

already slid down on the bed and was asleep. Chakotay put a pillow

under his head and drew the light cover over the sleeping form. He

took a moment to brush the light blonde hair out of Tom's eyes and

sighed.

 

"Oh, Tom, I wish I could have spared you this."

 

Chakotay walked back out to the living room and sat on the sofa.

He'd need some things from his cabin if he was going to stay here and

look after Tom.

 

"Chakotay to Neelix"

 

"Neelix here. What can I do for you commander?"

 

"Neelix I need some clothes from my cabin, I'm staying with Tom for

awhile. I suppose you've heard about…"

 

"Yes, commander, say no more, just make a list of what you need and

download it to my padd along with your door code and I'll drop off

whatever you need."

 

"Thank you Neelix, I was afraid I might have to leave and I didn't

want Tom to wake up without someone here."

 

"How is Tom? Is there anything that I can do?"

 

"Neelix, Tom's going to be ok but it will take time, and

unfortunately there's not a whole lot that anyone can do for him

right now."

 

"What a tragedy, with the baby and all. I was told that she'd be

fine though, thanks to Seven and her maturation chamber."

 

"Yes, that's a blessing, and this young man needs every blessing he

can get right now."

 

"If you'll just make that list commander I'll see to it you get

everything you need."

 

"Thanks again Neelix, Chakotay out." He closed the com channel.

 

Chakotay looked around and saw a padd lying on the counter separating

the sitting area from the dining table. He picked it up and opened a

new document and began to compile the list of things that he thought

would be necessary for the next couple of days. When the list was

completed he addressed the document to Neelix and sent it.

 

He yawned and noticed the time on the clock sitting on the table. He

curled up on the sofa and slept.

 

~*~

 

The doctor had his instructions from B'Elanna. He had hoped that he

would never have to activate this portion of his program but the

orders were specific.

 

"Computer activate program Torres alpha."

A holographic representation of the young woman appeared beside him.

 

"Doctor, since you have opened this file I apparently have died. The

plans that were made between you, Captain Janeway, Commander

Chakotay, and me are outlined within this text. These have to be

followed to the letter any deviation will invalidate the charter of

the family that Tom and I have founded within the auspices of the

Klingon Empire."

 

As the plans were laid out the doctor wished even more that B'Elanna

had found someone else to oversee these rituals. Would Tom be able

to follow these postmortem wishes? Would he be able to do so during

the proper timetable?

 

"Computer send computer file B'Elanna beta to the communications

terminal of Mr. Paris. Mark this urgent and to the attention of Mr.

Paris and Commander Chakotay."

 

"Message sent."

 

"Computer send computer file B'Elanna Charlie to the communications

terminal of Captain Janeway. Mark this urgent and to the attention

of the Captain only."

 

"Message sent."

 

Now the doctor had to wait for all three of the participants to

reply. He deactivated the hologram of B'Elanna and turned his mind

back to the other task at hand. Using an antigravity gurney he took

the body from the biobed and placed it in the storage unit. There

would be a proper burial when the time was right.

 

~*~

 

Janeway had just entered her cabin when the communications terminal

beeped.

 

"Computer play message."

 

B'Elanna's image was displayed on the small screen. Kathryn was

immediately drawn to the terminal.

 

"Captain, since the Doctor has sent this message to you, I'm

obviously gone. What I need to give you is the timetable for the

rituals over the next few days. I know that this is going to be

difficult for Tom. Please help him through this. It is imperative

that these plans be carried out to the letter. Otherwise our

daughter will never be accepted in the Klingon Empire."

 

"Did you know B'Elanna? Could you have known that something was

going to happen?" Janeway let the tears again flow down her face.

 

At the end of the message a text file was displayed. Janeway

downloaded it into a padd. She would have to go and see Tom and

Chakotay in the morning. There were arrangements to be made.

 

~*~

 

Chakotay was awake, the sofa that he fell asleep on was lumpy and he

needed a drink. As he made his way quietly to the replicator he

passed by the door that led to Tom's bedroom. Looking inside he saw

in the starlight that Tom was awake.

 

"Where ya going?"

 

"I needed a glass of water, can I get one for you too?"

 

"I'd like something a little stronger." Tom sat up and ordered the

lights up. His eyes were bloodshot for all the crying he'd done. He

walked over to Chakotay and smiled a soft sad smile.

 

"What is it Tom?"

 

"Just that I wish you were here under different circumstances."

 

"Why else would you want me here?"

 

"Come on let's get a drink and sit down. They say confession is good

for the soul and right now I need to talk. The only thing is after

I've spilled my guts to you; well you might spill some of my blood."

 

"Computer,"

 

Tom cut off the command with a wave of his hand. I was saving this

for a special occasion, but I think I need it now. He reached into a

cabinet and pulled out a bottle of pale blue liquid.

 

"Romulan ale?" Chakotay was stunned. "How in all the worlds of the

Federation did you get that?"

 

"I smuggled it aboard when I was beamed in from New Zealand.

My `friends' there had a supplier and I always kept a bottle with me,

for medicinal purposes mind you."

 

"Medicinal purposes?"

 

"Yeah, mostly snakebites, of course I always carried a snake with me."

 

"Tom you're insane."

 

"Not yet. Grab a couple of those glasses."

 

The two men sat down at the table and the younger man poured two

generous glasses of the pale blue liquid.

 

"To B'Elanna, may she keep Kahless out of as much trouble as she has

me."

 

Tom and Chakotay clinked their glasses and drank deeply.

 

"Chakotay, I'm impressed most seasoned drinkers can't really down

this stuff that easily."

 

"Tom, I'm not like most men. Now what did you have to tell me."

 

"It's difficult to say but here goes. Chakotay, I've been in love

with you ever since we met in the Marquis and B'Elanna knew that when

she married me." Whew he'd succeeded in getting it all out in one

breath. Now he waited for Chakotay to either storm out in a rage or

to begin beating him to a bloody pulp. He kept waiting and nothing

happened, in fact Chakotay was smiling at him.

 

"What's the matter Tom? Did you expect me to get violent? I already

knew that, the truth is that I have loved you as well. It killed me

when Seska tampered with the ship that I assigned to you for that

last mission. When I'd found out about her sabotage it was too late."

 

"Hold the com a minute! You knew? How? More to the point if you

felt the same way why didn't you ever tell me?"

 

"How? Come on Tom you were as obvious as the sun. Everyone could

tell that the smart-ass attitude was a way of covering up what was

going on. And the reason I never said anything was because if we'd

tried to make a go of it Seska would have killed you. I couldn't

live with that. Then when she'd defected and you went after her I

was angry the deception. By the time I came to terms with that you a

B'Elanna were an item and I couldn't tell you. Next thing I know you

two were getting married."

 

"Chakotay do you know that twice, not once but twice I called your

name out while B'Elanna and I were making love. I thought that she'd

kill me, but she just ignored it and we went at it harder than ever."

 

"She told me that in your sleep that you called out to me from time

to time."

 

"Really? I didn't know that."

 

"Tom, did you know why B'Elanna was having all the meetings lately

with the Captain, the Doctor and me?"

 

"No, I know that it had something to do with one of us dieing and I

couldn't bring myself to discuss it. I told her to make the

arrangements and I would follow her wishes."

 

"Do you intend to? Without knowing what's ahead?"

 

"She asked the same question and I told her that one thing I learned

from being married to a Klingon was that honor and one's word was the

most important thing in the galaxy. I will honor my wife's wishes."

 

They sat in silence, just comfortable being together. Finally when

the bottom of the bottle was reached Tom looked over to Chakotay and

spoke.

 

"I think I can sleep now. It's a big bed."

 

"I'll stay on the sofa."

 

"You're kidding, that damn thing is so lumpy. I won't try anything

if that's what you're worried about."

 

"You talk like you know from experience how bad the sofa sleeps."

 

"I do, man I pissed her off on night and had to sleep on that damn

thing, my back hurt for a week. Please Chakotay, just sleep in

there, I need to feel another person near me right now."

 

"Tom, I'm not afraid of you trying something. I'm afraid that I

might and it's too soon."

 

Tom took Chakotay by the hand and led him to the bedroom. He pushed

him down on the bed and then walked over to the other side and lie

down. Chakotay gave in to the inevitable and turning toward the

blonde man's back sighed deeply and slept.

~*~

Janeway woke to the alarm blasting through the speakers in the

headboard of her bed.

 

"Damn! Girl you have to get a good night sleep soon." She said to

herself.

 

Sitting up she pulled on her light robe, more out of habit than any

need for modesty. Then she stumbled to the replicator.

 

"Coffee." She growled.

 

The computer long ago having been programmed to understand that tone;

immediately produced a large mug of the dark steaming beverage.

Kathryn took it and gratefully sipped it as she walked over to her

chair. She needed a little time to collect her thoughts before she

called on the grieving widower. This situation would have to be

handled delicately.

 

Finally, as the last of the coffee was drained from the cup she

decided that she was awake enough to get dressed. She went to the

bathroom and took a sonic shower. Ugh she hated these things, but

they were a necessary evil onboard a starship. Next she retrieved her

uniform from the `fresher and put it on. Looking in the mirror there

to quickly run a brush though her shoulder length hair. Now, there

stood The Captain, ready to face the day. Not really, but she'd suck

it up and keep on going.

 

Janeway touched her combadge, "Janeway to Paris."

 

There was a brief pause like someone trying to stifle a yawn. "Yes

Captain?" Came the sleepy response.

 

"Tom, I'm sorry to bother you this early, but there are some things

that need to be discussed."

 

"It's alright, where do you want me to report to?"

 

"Tom you're off duty, so how about inviting me to join you and

Chakotay for breakfast?"

 

"Kathryn, would you like to come here for breakfast?" Tom didn't

miss a beat as he turned the suggestion into an invitation.

 

"I'd like that, I'll give you; say 45 minutes. Janeway out." She

touched the badge again. Shaking her head and smiling. "Coffee." She

ordered again.

~*~

Tom had be awoke by the com and was surprised to find that he and

Chakotay were lying spooned together, the big man's arm around his

narrow waist. After his conversation with Kathryn he turned to look

and his bedmate.

 

Chakotay looked so sweet when he slept. All the tension was smoothed

from his face and even though he was several years Tom's senior he

still had striking good looks. Tom wondered if anything would happen

between the two of them. Well we'd better get up.

 

"Chakotay." Tom said gently and laid a hand on the man's shoulder.

 

Yawning, Chakotay stretched briefly then his arm again settled around

Tom's waist. It seemed natural for it to be there.

 

"Good morning, Tom." Chakotay said looking into the beautiful blue

eyes and smiling.

 

"Morning, we're going to have company for breakfast. Kathryn is

going to be here in 45 minutes."

 

"What?"

 

"Right like you don't have breakfast every morning with her."

"Tom, I have my dehydrated oatmeal in the privacy of my quarters.

She and I don't spend every second together."

 

"Sorry, Chak."

 

"What did you just call me?"

 

"Chak."

 

"I like it but on the bridge, ok?"

 

"I wouldn't dream of it." Tom said smiling broadly.

 

"Look here paleface, if you do I'll scalp you!"

 

"Oh really, you'll have to catch me first!" Tom jumped out of bed,

and made for the door. Chakotay was right behind him. Tom's forward

motion was abruptly stopped when a large dark hand grabbed the

waistband of his underwear.

 

"Gotcha!"

 

"Curses! Foiled again."

 

Chakotay spun him around and without thinking pressed his lips to

Tom's perfect mouth. Tom's lips parted inviting the older man to

plumb the depths of his mouth. Chakotay realized what he was doing

and tried to pull back, but Tom had wrapped his arms around the

larger man's neck holding him. The kiss was deep and loving and full

of promise. Then Tom released him and Chakotay pulled back.

 

"Tom, I sorry."

 

"Why Chakotay, didn't you like it?"

 

"Of course I did but—"

 

"But me no butts, I don't want any regrets, understand? I know

what's happened and I know I an in mourning according to human

practices, but my wife was Klingon and once the warning is given

that's supposed to be it. She's gone and I miss her, but I think

she'd understand this. I mean it's not like we're jumping in bed

together."

 

"No that was last night."

 

"We slept! Now who's being a smart ass?"

 

"Who me? I had a good teacher."

 

"The best," Tom said and leaned in and gave Chakotay a  little pop kiss on the lips.

 

"We'd best get ready and have breakfast waiting on the Captain."

 

"You're right of course. You want the sonic shower first?"

 

"I need to see if my stuff's on the way first."

 

"Moving in already?"

 

"Cute Tommy boy. Remember I'm here to help you through this."

 

"I know Chak. Thank you, no one has ever cared about me before."

 

"Well I do, and a certain Captain does, and she's on the way go get

ready, and remember off duty clothing."

 

"Yes Sir!" Tom snapped a salute. He looked so cute doing it in his

underwear. Chakotay laughed as the blonde man dashed to the bathroom

and he heard the sonic shower start up.

 

Chakotay opened the door and was met by two standard Starfleet issue

packs. He'd have to thank Neelix later. Taking the packs inside he

chose his clothes for the day and waiting on Tom.

 

A few minutes later Tom appeared dressed in tight black trousers, and

a black button down long sleeved shirt.

 

"You're turn." Tom said with a grin as he began to comb his blonde

hair into a presentable state.

 

"Thanks."

 

While Chak was showering Tom sat down and looked over the quarters.

He'd have to move. There were too many memories here, memories of

B'Elanna. Thoughts of the baby came to mind. Oh god the baby.

 

Tom hit his combadge. "Paris to the Doctor."

 

"Sickbay, go ahead Mr. Paris."

 

"Doc how's the baby?"

 

"She's doing well. The maturation chamber will simulate the womb and

we're letting her develop at the normal rate."

 

"Meaning she'll be in there three months."

 

"That is correct. I've talked with Seven and we both believe that

this will be the best thing, for all involved. Speeding up your

daughter's development could be risky, and this way you'll have time

to get adjusted before you have to devote all your time to her care."

 

"Thanks Doc. I'll stop by later to see her."

 

"Mr. Paris, you're welcome to come by but she won't know you're

there."

 

"I'll know Doc."

 

"Understood, Sickbay out."

 

Tom felt a little better; at least he had some time to get settled

before the baby would be arriving.

 

Chakotay came out of the bathroom and what a sight he was. He was

dressed in white linen trousers and a matching shirt with a nehru

collar.

 

"Tom I hope that it's alright in my culture white not black is the

color of mourning."

 

"I like it Chak. It's fine and you look very handsome wearing it."

 

"Kathryn will be here any minute, let's surprise her." Chakotay said

with a smile and walked over to the replicator. He began issuing

orders, this would eat away at his replicator rations, but it would

be worth it.

~*~

Kathryn walked up to the door to Tom's quarters and pressed the

chime. Almost immediately the door whooshed open.

 

"Kathryn, please come in." Tom welcomed her.

 

"Thank you, Tom." Kathryn came inside and was also greeted by her

first officer.

 

"Kathryn, breakfast is waiting." He took her by the arm and led her

to the table.

 

"Eggs Benedict? Chakotay you shouldn't have."

 

"Well, we thought that we all deserved a treat."

 

"Coffee Kathryn?"

 

"Please, you both know me to well."

 

"Let's enjoy our breakfast, we can talk about we need to discuss

afterwards."

They began eating with relish, the breakfast was one of the best that

they'd had since coming to the delta quadrant. In between bites they

chatted about the regular happenings onboard ship.

 

"Chakotay, Tom that was wonderful. Thank you."

 

"Our pleasure Captain. Who knows maybe we'll have to start doing it

more often."

 

"Tom, we may just need to do that. Unfortunately, we need to get

down to the business that brought me here."

 

"Well let's talk. What plans was B'Elanna making with you and the

rest of the command staff?"

 

"Tom in the last communiqué from the alpha quadrant B'Elanna's mother

sent her an instructions on the founding of a new Klingon house."

 

"But B'Elanna's gone, there's no way a new house could be founded."

 

"Yes, there is. It's an archaic law within the Klingon cannon that

allows for a founding through proxy in the event that either the

matriarch or patriarch is killed. The main requirement has been met.

The first offspring has to be of the original pair, your daughter is

doing wonderfully well and the birth will occur on schedule. So

there is nothing to stand in the way of you completing the founding

by proxy."

 

"Great if I remember correctly that means that there has to be a male

heir also. So I have to marry someone and get her pregnant."

 

"Well that is covered in the cannon of laws as well. The mate who

has die must specify who the proxy will be."

 

"And I take it that B'Elanna has."

 

"Yes."

 

"Who?"

 

"Chakotay." Kathryn fought to say it with a straight face. And lost

miserably a huge grin split her face from ear to ear.

 

"You're kidding."

 

"No, she said that you had to be happy and her choice would make you

happy. She conferred with the Doctor and he can and will perform the

role of "DNA mixer" then the zygote will be placed in the maturation

chamber and the pregnancy will go at a normal rate."

"So, this means that Chak and I…"

 

"Tom, I can't make you do this." Kathryn was afraid that all

B'Elanna's plans would be for nothing.

 

"Chak are you ok with this? I mean if memory serves you'd be looked

upon within the Klingon hierarchy as my."

 

"Wife or mate. Yes, B'Elanna came to me and spoke on your behalf. I

know that this is a shock but after our talk last night I'm convinced

that you are the one that I want to spend my life with. So on top of

being founders of a the Klingon house Torres, we will also become a

mated pair within my culture."

 

"Wait, so we're going to be the leaders of a new Klingon house,

without a Klingon among us, except my daughter who's only a quarter

Klingon and also members of a Native American Tribe who migrated to

another planet centuries ago. I'm confused, you're going to end up

making me my own grandfather."

 

Kathryn and Chakotay both laughed.

 

"Tom you have the chance of a lifetime. The only reason that this

house could be founded is because you child was the "Kuvah'Magh".

When word reached the Klingon Empire about the situation with the new

colony we helped establish the first thing asked was what house was

responsible for this child. When the Council was told the situation

your mother-in-law was called in and given a directive to instruct

her daughter on the proper founding of a house for the "Kuvah'Magh".

You are a human who will be patriarch of a glorious Klingon house."

 

"Yeah, dad would be proud." Tom's words had a make of sarcasm.

 

"I have one other thing to show you. Chakotay could you play the

message for Tom."

 

Chakotay walked over to the com station and entered a command into

the keypad. Immediately the Federation emblem was displayed. The

next picture caused Tom's mouth to drop open. It was Admiral Paris.

 

"Son, first of all I'd like to congratulate you and my new daughter.

Hurry up and get my grandchild back here. Secondly the Klingon

emperor has contacted me; he wishes to send his greetings to your

family. Your child, the "Kuvah'Magh" is responsible for cementing the

fragile peace that the Federation and the Klingon Empire have enjoyed

for all these years. You see we haven't released new of it yet but

up until this happened all talks with the Klingons had broken down.

It was a matter of time until war would be declared. However, you my

son and your wife and child averted that war. By being human and

producing their savior as told in sacred texts in essence our two

races are now one in their eyes.

 

I have been instructed by my superiors to ask my son to carry forward

with all haste the forming of House Torres. Upon your return to the

alpha quadrant your house will hold an exalted seat on the Klingon

High council, as well as in the United Federation of Planets. Son, I

can't stress enough that whatever is necessary to complete this house

must be done.

 

I know Tom that I made a lot of mistakes with you. I hope you

learned from mine and don't make the same ones. I love you Son,

please hurry home. Also remember I'm very proud of you, not just

because of your role in the Klingon peace. I've always been proud

you are the finest pilot in the Fleet and the most honorable Klingon

patriarch to ever found a house.

 

One more thing, upon your return you will find that there is no penal

record of Tom Paris. This is a gift to you from the Federated

Council. You have saved millions of lives and proven that sometimes

rules are made to be broken. I have to go, give your wife a kiss for

me; and my granddaughter when she makes her debut. Starfleet out."

 

As the message closed Kathryn saw the tears falling from Tom's eyes.

Chakotay had moved closer and wrapped an arm around his fiancé.

Offering support both physical and emotional.

 

"Dad never ever has said that he was proud of me." Tom managed to

get out.

 

"Tom, he's not the only one proud of you." Kathryn walked to the

blonde man and gently wiped the tears from his face. "You are

personally responsible for saving this ship on so many occasions that

I've quite given up counting. You are a valuable member of my crew

and now you are my friend. I know a little about your childhood with

the Admiral. I know that you had a tough time of growing up under

his thumb, but Tom you have become one Hell of a Man. Your Father

should be proud!"

 

Chakotay then turned Tom to face him. "I too am proud of you. The

sacrifice you made of your freedom to ensure that Starfleet didn't

capture our resistance cell was known, without you and your

selflessness we all would have been rotting in a Starfleet prison.

Now you have been exonerated from all wrongdoing. We of the Marquis

owe you our freedom and our loyalty. I must agree with Kathryn

you've become quite a man. The type of man your father will never

be. Moreover I am honored that you will take me to be your mate. I

will try to live up to your standards, my future husband."

 

"Chakotay, where do you think I learned these standards? You were my

role model."

 

"Tom, learn to accept praise. Something tells me that you will be up

to your neck in it when we get home. After all how many humans are

in the Klingon High Council?"

 

Tom wiped away the tears that had again found their way down his

face. Then turning to face Kathryn he asked with a touch of his

impish humor.

 

"So Katie, when is the wedding planned for. If I know my wife she

probably set it up for this afternoon."

 

"No quite, tomorrow morning. In fact tomorrow is going to be a rest

day, we'll be running on a skeleton crew. The festivities will begin

at 1000 sharp."

 

"Ok tell me all about it."

 

"No, only what you need to know. Be at the holodeck at 1000 sharp

and wear your Klingon Armor."

 

"You're kidding me. That was just replicated for me as a joke."

 

"Well consider it your tuxedo from now on as well as a dress uniform."

 

"Oh my gods. Well what about Chak, doesn't he need a set?"

 

"No, his costume has been prepared. Now Gentlemen, if you'll excuse

me I have a ship to run and you have things to…discuss I'm sure."

 

"We'll see you tomorrow morning, Katie."

 

"Tom, if you ever call me Katie on the bridge, I throw you out an

airlock without a pressure suite."

 

"I wouldn't dream of it, Captain." Tom's look was one of seriousness

as he made this statement.

 

Kathryn smiled and touched his cheek, "Always remember Tom, I'm so

proud of you." Then she turned to her first officer, "Chakotay, I'm

upset."

 

"What about Kathryn?"

 

"Well half my crew has been placing wagers in the betting pool was to

when we would get together, and I've been upstaged. Two of most

handsome men onboard and you're both getting married. To each other,

there will be a lot of wet pillows tomorrow night."

 

With those words she turned and left their quarters. Leaving the two

men alone.

 

Tom turned to face his fiancé. So Chak, we're going to be a Klingon

family, and we're both men so I have one question."

 

"Which is?"

 

"Which one of us throws the heavy objects and which one recites the

love poetry?"

 

Chakotay smiled, "You're incorrigible. And I love you." Then he

lifted the smaller man in his big arms, his lips locking on to Tom's

and carried him to the bedroom.

 

Tom broke the kiss and said, "So my mate, do I get a sample of what's

to come?"

 

"Thomas Eugene Paris, I'll sample you."

 

"Please do." Tom replied and kissed his new mate deeply then found

that he was airborne, have been thrown on the bed.

 

"Hey, I bruise easily."

 

"Oh really, well I'm not a Klingon, but I know a little about Klingon

sex and you best get really to rumble." Then Chakotay launched

himself at Tom and seized the day!

 

The growls and snarls that came from the bedroom sounded more like a

bar brawl than a romantic interlude.

 

"Tom, oh-h-h-h yes that feels so good." Chakotay was practically

purring.

 

Tom was between the big beefy thighs licking the large stiff rod

there like it was a lollipop. Taking it between his lips he began

soaking it getting it good and wet then like he calmly took every

inch of the cock down his throat.

 

"Awwwww ohhhhhhhh BabBBBBy! Yeahhhhhhh!" Chakotay was fighting the

instinct to buck his hips. He didn't want to hurt his new mate, at

least nothing serious.

 

Tom began working the muscles in his throat. The reaction pleased

him; Chakotay involuntary lifted his ass off the mattress pushing his

cock deeper.

 

"Tommmmmmmmmmmmmmm. Please I want you inside me!"

 

Tom wasn't ready to relinquish his newfound control over his lover

yet. He brought Chakotay to the brink, and succeeded in keeping him

there until the man was practically begging. His hands balled into

fists clutching the sheet under him his whole body trembling.

 

"Tom! You're killing me! Please!"

 

Enough was enough Tom tightened his muscles and set fast rhythm, as

Chakotay began to groan he inserted a well lubed finger into the

darker mans most intimate regions. It pushed Chakotay past the

limit.

 

"AHhhhhhHHHh! GoddddddddddSssssssssss! Awwwwwwww! Ohhhhhhh!

Ughhhhhhh!" Chakotay's moans began more and more guttural as his

orgasm progressed. His balls tightened and his seed was shot with

violent force down Tom's eager throat. As the climax began to ease

and then ended Tom slid up Chakotay's body and embraced his man. He

leaned in to kiss him, but giving him the chance to pull away.

 

Chakotay's mouth claimed his. The Indian's tongue delving deep to

taste his essence in his lovers mouth, on his lovers tongue. The

kiss went on deeper and deeper until Tom thought that his tonsils

would be sore from the exploration.

 

Chakotay pushed Tom back on the bed and began to explore the younger

man's body. His tongue licking, and delving, his hands lightly

caressing until he reached the flat plane of Tom's stomach. He

gently probed Tom's bellybutton.

 

"Chak, that tickles."

 

He continued down until he reached the object of his desire, and

passed it by. Tom moaned in disappointment. Chakotay took first one

and then both of Tom's balls into his mouth. He gently rolled them

in his mouth using his tongue to tease and stimulate the organs.

 

"Awwwwwwhhhhhhhhhh! That's wonderful!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

 

Gently removing Tom's balls from his mouth, the Indian then crossed

Tom's legs and succeeded in flipping his fiancé onto his stomach.

Pulling Tom to his knees, Chakotay then gently pried apart the two

pale while globes that formed the perfect ass. Driving his tongue

into the tight puckered hole that was hidden there.

 

"Fuckkkkk! Chak, no one's ever done that."

 

Chakotay came up for air. "Tom if you don't like something please

tell me and I'll stop."

 

"Don't quit on me now!" Was the response.

 

Chakotay dove back down, working his tongue over the tight ring of

muscles expertly. When they had relaxed he took the tube of

lubricant and prepared three fingers. First he gently penetrated Tom

with one.

 

"OHHHHHHHH!"

 

Chakotay smiled, "relax Tom, and trust me. I won't hurt you, I want

this to feel so good."

 

Gently he moved the finger in and out. Finally reaching in he made

contact with Tom's prostate. Electric fire shot up the blonde's

spine.

 

"Chak! What did you do?"

 

"Did you like it?"

 

"Do it again!"

 

Chakotay obliged, and was rewarded with a series of moans, as well as

the loosening of Tom's anal muscles. He gently inserted a second

finger and continued to massage the channel. Making it ready for

what he had planned next.

 

"Chakotay, please I want you in me. Take out these fingers! Give me

your cock, make me yours!" Tom begged.

 

"Wait Tom, I'm not going to hurt you. This has to be done." Chakotay

said in a soothing voice.

 

He inserted another finger making a total of three. Deeper and

deeper he probed; Tom had begun to push back on his hand. Pushing

the fingers as deep into him as possible. Chakotay pulled out the

fingers and gently turned Tom back over. Lifting Tom's legs he

placed a couple of pillows under him for support.

 

Tom felt like his ass was the size of a power coupling. Chakotay

moved closer and the head of his cock was pushed against Tom's anus.

Even after being stretched it was big. Chakotay pressed forward

slowly. The head of his cock and a couple of inches slid inside.

 

"Godssss!"

 

"Tom, I'll go slow. I promise it may hurt a little but not for long."

 

"Chak! I love you!"

 

"I love you too Tom!"

 

Chakotay felt the muscles loosen and he pushed in a little further.

His forward progress was slow but finally his came to rest against

Tom's body.

 

"It's all in baby. I'm going to hold still until you get used to me

being in there."

 

"Chak, I'm gonna explode! Damn, I feel it in my stomach!"

 

"Give it a little time, think sexy thoughts Tom."

 

"Who can think?"

 

After a few minutes the muscles loosened and Tom was ready. Chakotay

could feel the tight channel adjust to his cock.

 

"Tom," Chakotay started, then paused and slowly, gently bucked his

hips. "Does it hurt?"

 

"Chak! Oh Godsssssssss! No it feels good!" Tom moaned, looking up at

the Indian.

 

Chakotay looked into Tom's blue eyes and saw them brimming over with

lust and love. He began thrusting into the man at first with tight

control. However as Tom's ecstasy became more and more apparent

Chakotay eventually lost all control and began pulling out and

slamming all the way home. Faster and harder he moved, Tom's legs

wrapped around his waist and pulled him in helping him to reach

deeper.

 

"Chak! I'mI gonna cum!"

 

"Wait for me baby. I'm almost there!"

 

OHHHHHhh GOOOOOOOODDDDDDDDDD!" Tom began the muscles in his ass

becoming impossibly tight on the hard cock inside. The sensation

drove Chakotay over the brink.

 

"Tooooooooommmmmmmmm! Ohhhhhhhhhhh! Awwwwwwwww!" Chakotay's orgasm

was almost violent, a torrent of seed rushed out of his cock filling

the man beneath him.

 

Tom's seed splattered on their chests.

 

Slowly the tremors subsided. As the last waves of pleasure flowed

over Chakotay gently pulled out of Tom.

 

Tom whimpered at the loss, however his man pulled him into his arms

and gently stroked his body. Whispering loving words into his ear.

 

Tom was almost asleep when he felt a warm cloth cleansing him.

Chakotay had gotten up and was taking care of him. When everything

was washed and gently dried Chakotay got back into bed and wrapped

himself around Tom.

 

"Love you Chak."

 

"Love you Tom." With those words they both drifted off to sleep.

~*~

 

The next morning they were both startled by the alarm going off in

the cabin.

 

"Tom, did you set the alarm?"

 

"No, I thought that you set it."

 

"Computer, who set the alarm in this cabin?"

 

"Alarm was set remotely by Captain Janeway." Came the computer's

reply.

 

"Well what do you know? I guess she figured that we'd be too busy to

remember to set it."

 

"Tom, remind me to get the quarters checked for spy eyes."

 

"You don't think...."

 

"You never know. It's awfully funny she seems to know everything

going on this ship."

 

Tom shook his head. Janeway a voyeur? Ridiculous; couldn't happen.

 

"Who's first in the shower?" Tom asked his fiancé'.

 

"You go ahead, I've got a few things to do. We don't want to be late

for the ritual."

 

Tom nodded and disappeared into the bathroom. A few minutes later

the harsh vocals to a Klingon opera were added to the noise of

rushing water.

 

"Gods, what a thing to wake up to in the mornings. Maybe I can get

Tom interested in some of the tribal chants, or even some old earth

rock and roll."

 

Chakotay turned and walked out the communications terminal. He

contacted the doctor.

 

"Sickbay here, go ahead."

 

"Doctor, good morning."

 

"If you say so. I take it that you are checking on the modifications

to the dermal regenerator you requested."

 

"Yes, I wanted to be sure that it would be ready in time."

 

"Against my better judgment it is ready. I cannot understand why any

intelligent species would want to inject ink into their skin for the

sake of adornment."

 

"Doctor, it's a tribal tradition. I honor my ancestors with my

tattoo, and Tom will honor me with his."

 

"Wouldn't a wedding band work?"

 

"No, the reason behind marriage tattoos was to help ensure fidelity.

You can take off a wedding band but not a tattoo."

 

"I beg to differ, with an unmodified dermal regenerator you can

remove the tattoo, easily and painlessly."

 

"Doctor, this is something that I was raised with and my mate will

have to bear my mark."

 

"Have you informed Mr. Paris? It seems to me that he would have some

say in this. After all it is his skin that you're going to

disfigure."

 

"I'm going to speak with Tom in a moment. Chakotay out." The

connection was severed.

 

"So, I have to bear your mark?"

 

Chakotay almost jumped out of his skin.

 

"Tom, I didn't hear you. I was going to tell you earlier but we were

otherwise occupied."

 

"Just who is going to put this tattoo on me and what will it be?"

 

"The marriage tattoo is identical to mine except that it will be over

the opposite brow. And tradition requires that I apply the tattoo.

That's why I wanted a modified regenerator, so once it was applied

the skin could be healed over and it wouldn't ruin you wedding day."

 

Tom strode up to Chakotay, staring the man square in the eye,

scowling.

 

"It's little enough to ask, as long as you're in my life." Tom's

face shifted into a smile and he kissed the older man.

 

"Don't scare me like that Tom, I thought that you were going to tell

me to fuck off and call everything off."

 

"For the honor of my house, and the honor of my wife, but mostly for

the love of my husband, Chakotay I'll always do anything in my power

to make you happy. Now your turn go get ready, I've got to get you

to the chapel on time." Chakotay missed the reference to the old

earth song. Tom didn't expect him to get it, he'd learn.

 

Now Tom had a little request to make of the Captain while Chakotay

was otherwise occupied. He opened a channel to Janeway.

 

"Yes Tom, are you almost ready for the ceremony?"

 

"Yes Captain, we both are but there's one question is there any way

we canl insert a song into the program without it being too out of

place?"

 

"Tom this is the most unconventional ceremony that I have ever

performed, that song?"

 

"I'll want to sign something special for Chak. Here is the

replicator code for a CD it is track 5 the original artist was an

earth man named..."

 

"Randy Travis, I have a copy here, I'll personally see to the

arrangements for you Tom."

 

"I never thought you'd be one for old country music, Kathryn."

 

"You learn something new everyday my friend. Just be sure and get to

the chapel on time." Janeway smiled and closed the channel.

 

Tom almost laughed out loud. It seems that he and Kathryn both

shared an affinity for a more simple way of life.

~*~

Well the old chrono on his desk showed that it was 0930, he needed to

get to the holodeck and get things ready.

 

"Computer transfer EMH to mobile emitter."

 

"Transfer complete."

 

The doctor picked up the tiny device and attaching it to his

shoulder 'felt' the transition to the little futuristic device.

 

"Computer transfer all programs in EMH database labeled Torres to

holodeck one."

 

"Transfer complete."

 

The doctor strode out of sickbay and made his way through the ship to

the main holodeck.

 

Upon entering he gave the commands necessary to engage the privacy

lock and began issuing orders to the computer. Before he was done he

was standing on a plateau overlooking the Great Capital city on the

Klingon homeworld of Coronus.

 

This has to be the most depressing planet imaginable. The Doctor

thought to himself. The sky overhead was awash with stars brightly

shining in a blue-black sky. The ground was bare and had been

compacted in a large circle. Even the trees and the scenery were

violent looking. No wonder with a homeworld like this that Klingons

were so ill tempered and violent.

 

Finally when all the programs were running or ready to run the doctor

checked the time it was 0945.

 

"Computer disengage privacy lock and allow all to enter."

 

"Privacy lock deactivated."

 

The Captain had made an announcement yesterday to all hands that

there would be a special event taking place in the holodeck this

morning. All would probably attend, after all being confined on a

starship for years with little diversion left everyone ready for a

party.

 

Slowly people began to filter in taking up positions around the

perimeter of the flattened area. As the hour approached 1000 he

noticed the Captain make her entrance, along with Mr. Paris who was

wearing authentic Klingon battle armor, Commander Chakotay was also

there wearing an authentic costume of Native American style, it

consisted of buckskin moccasins, a loin cloth and beaded breastplate,

to top it off was a feathered war bonnet. Many of the women on the

crew and a few of the men were leering at the heavily muscled body of

the Commander.

 

The doctor stood by the captain and waited for her order.

 

"I think that's about everyone doctor, if you would..."

"Gladly. Computer call the ceremony to order."

 

On his command there was a deafening clash of thunder followed by a

lighting strike in the forest behind the crowd.

 

"Ladies, and Gentlemen, we are here today to celebrate several

events, first the life of our chief engineer, B'Elanna Torres. She

has left a message for her crewmates, as well as her husband, Tom."

 

"Computer run program Torres Echo."

 

Immediately there was a shimmering as a raised dais was constructed,

perched atop of it, in Klingon armor was an image of B'Elanna.

 

"I'm leaving this message for all my crewmates and friends so you

will understand what is about to happen. My life has ended otherwise

you wouldn't be here. First do not grieve for me I am in Sto-Vo-

Kor. Thanks to Voyager and our adventures I am certain of my place

among the honored dead. Please remember me with kindness and a

smile. If you cannot remember me without tears then don't remember

me at all. My husband Tom has been the light of my life. He has

been everything to me since before we were married. It is because of

this that I have taken my right as founding matriarch of House Torres-

Paris and selected his new mate. I know that arranged marriages are

not the norm on Federation worlds, however on Cronous it is normal

for a founding member of a new house to select a mate to take his or

her place.

 

My choice was based on many things; the most important was who would

make my husband happy. That was one question that I could answer

easily. Tom's heart belonged to another long before it did me. At

night I would listen as he called to this person in his dreams. The

decision was made with the other party's consent, it seems that there

was unrequited love on that end as well. My Tom's new mate is to be

Chakotay!"

 

At this point the recording paused. B'Elanna seemed to know that

there would be shock running though the crowd.

 

The people turned to each other and surprised murmurs were heard.

The surprise registered on all the faces in the crowd, but no hatred

or animosity. That was a blessing thought Janeway.

 

Finally the murmuring died down and it was Harry Kim who started the

applause. Louder and louder it grew until it was almost as deafening

as the earlier thunder.

 

Janeway stood up and motioned for silence. The crew complied.

 

"Ladies and Gentlemen, I'm sure that Tom and Chakotay both appreciate

your support. I thought that you might like to know also that the

founding of house Torres-Paris has cemented the peace between the

Federation and the Klingon Empire. It seems that our two

civilizations were on the brink of war when the Klingon High Council

received word of the events out here in the Delta quadrant,

concerning the Klingon Colony and B'Elanna's unborn daughter. There

is to be lasting peace between our two peoples. With Tom and his

house will have an exalted place on the Klingon High Council as well

as become the Klingon Ambassadors to the United Federated Council."

 

The applause started again. Tears were running down the faces of

many of the young women.

 

As the applause died down the doctor ordered the computer to run the

acceptance segment for B'Elanna's speech.

 

"I am proud that you as my friends and crewmates are supportive of my

choice. Please look after my Tom and his new mate. Treat them with

honor and respect, just as you would me."

 

At this point the holographic image jumped down from the dais and

stepped over to Tom.

 

"Tom, I hope you'll forgive me for outing you to the entire ship. I

love you and wanted you to be happy and Chakotay is the only one that

I know can make you happy. This union has my blessing and may

Chakotay bear you many strong sons. Farewell my husband, I await you

in Sto-Vo-Kor."

 

B'Elanna's image then turned to Chakotay.

 

"Chakotay, my old friend, your acceptance of this proposal honors

me. I know you for a kind and loving man, please help Tom through my

passing with all your patience and love. He will be a fine husband

for you, trust me I know. Tom is a misunderstood person; he is full

of insecurities and self-doubt. Never take him for granted for

inside is a precious person who loves sparingly but deeply. I bless

your union and may you bear many strong sons in the name of the house

of Torres-Paris.

 

B'Elanna turned once more to face the crowd.

 

"This rite has been witnessed by all present. My blessing has been

made in the presence of the naked stars that forget nothing."

 

"If there are gods, they do not help, and justice belongs to the

strong: but know that all things done before the naked stars are

remembered." Tom recited the line in a loud harsh voice, one worthy

of a Klingon warrior.

 

The next thing to happen was a highly emotional experience. In the

center of the clearing a photon casing materialized. It was

B'Elanna's coffin. Janeway moved to the center of the clearing. Her

eyes were shining with unshed tears.

 

"Ladies and Gentlemen, when serving on a vessel of any kind, there is

one thing that is inevitable. Bonds of friendship will be formed; in

many cases these bonds are as strong as the bonds shared by members

of a family. When one of our crew is killed, whether it is in battle

or a tragic accident; we all feel the loss. This time is no

exception; seven years ago I met a fiery young woman. She had yet to

come to terms with the two parts of her heritage. Over the past

seven years I watched her grow to become an officer, with whom I

proudly served, and a woman who I gladly called friend. It is now

with a heavy heart that I consign her remains to space."

 

"Captain, please wait…" Tom came forward, "I'd like to say a few

words if I may."

 

"Of course Tom."

 

"Many of you I know thought that B'Elanna had lost her mind when she

married me. Maybe you were right."

 

A few low chuckles were heard though the crowd.

 

"I just want everyone to know this. I loved this woman with

everything I had. She was my world, and she will always have a piece

of my heart with her." Tears were flowing down his face.

 

Chakotay moved forward and in a deep baritone voice he began to

recite.

 

And though the cold brittles the flesh,

The chain of duty cannot be broken,

For the chain is forged in the heart's own fire

Which cold cannot extinguish

 

Yet if my line should die,

It dies with its teeth in the enemy's throat,

It dies with its name on the enemy's tongue.

For just as mere life is not victory,

Mere death is not defeat;

And in the next world I shall kill the foe a thousand times,

Laughing,

Undefeated.

 

Chakotay placed his arm around Tom's shoulders and led the younger

man away from the clearing.

 

Janeway signaled the transporter chief and the coffin was beamed into

space.

 

"Ladies and Gentlemen, we will be taking a short break to allow

everyone to compose themselves." Janeway turned and followed after

Tom and Chakotay.

 

"Tom, we don't have to do this today. We can wait until later."

Chakotay said with a heartbroken look on his face. It was killing

him that he couldn't take Tom's grief away.

 

"Chakotay, I don't want to wait. Just give me a couple of minutes.

I really make a lousy Klingon, let's get changed for our ceremony."

 

"Are you sure?"

 

"I've never been more sure of anything. Last time I waited too long

and I'm not going to make that same mistake again. I've got you here

and we're getting married. And that's an order Commander!"

 

"Aye sir!" Chakotay smiled and snapped a salute to the junior

officer.

 

"Tom, Chakotay are we still going to have the marriage ritual?"

Janeway had just caught up with the two.

 

"Yes Ma'am, just give me a minute and let both of us get changed."

 

"What and deprive the crew of the site of Chakotay's exquisite, Ahh

costume?"

 

"That's the main reason we're changing. That and I look like a kid

in this armor, no we're both going to be joined wearing our own

clothes and not these costumes. If you'll excuse us."

 

"Certainly, take your time."

 

Tom and Chak moved behind a hidden screen. Janeway almost laughed as

pieces of both costumes began to be flung out from behind the

screen. It was obvious that neither man liked the clothing. Within

a few minutes the quick change was complete and Tom and Chakotay both

reappeared from behind the screen.

 

Tom was dressed in black form fitting trousers with a white linen

shirt. Chakotay was in white trousers with a black linen shirt. It

was so sweet they were mirror images of each other. Tom with his

pales skin and blonde hair, Chakotay with his Native American

coloring and black hair.

"Well, I must say that is a definite improvement over those

costumes."

 

"We thought so." Chakotay replied.

 

"Come on, pet we're getting hitched." Tom said and pulling Chakotay

by the hand led the way back to the clearing.

~*~

 

"Ladies and Gentlemen, as is required of Klingon law the remaining

founder of the new house and his new mate must be married immediately

following the interment of the departed mate. This will be a Klingon

ceremony, afterwards, I will officiate a human ceremony to make it

legal on both worlds."

 

Tom and Chakotay walked out into the middle of the clearing.

 

Tom began speaking in Klingon, ""I take you Chakotay for my mate for

life I shall honor and love you".

 

Chakotay looking into Tom's eyes answered in Klingon, "I accept you

Tom to be my mate for life and death I join to your honor."

 

Tom and Chakotay joined hands and stretched out their arms to press

together their chests. As the contact was made both of they yelled

out in "victory" as was custom and then kissed.

 

Tom then placed on Chakotay's middle left finger a bronze ring that

bore Tom's name. Chakotay placed a ring on Tom's middle finger that

was inscribed with the name Chakotay.

 

"Computer, active program Chakotay 134." As soon as Chakotay spoke

the words a chair materialized next to Tom. Chakotay took Tom by the

arm and seated him. Tom looked worried.

 

Chakotay reached into his pocket and removed a sheet of paper. It

was a transfer of his tattoo. He placed the transfer on Tom's right

brow and activated the self-inking paper. While this was taking

place the doctor stepped up and handed Chakotay two items. One was a

primitive tattoo gun, the other the special dermal regenerator.

 

"Trust me?" Chakotay whispered to Tom.

 

"With my life."

 

Chakotay gently kissed his new mate and removing the paper began the

tattooing process. Occasionally during the process he would stop and

use the regenerator to heal the skin over the tattoo. He didn't want

Tom to bleed to death before he was done, and normally a marriage

tattoo was spaced out months from beginning to completion. Finally,

the tattoo was complete. Giving the adornment once over with the

dermal regenerator, to be sure that it was completely healed Chakotay

asked the computer for a mirror. It materialized in his hand.

 

"Are you ready to look?" He asked Tom.

 

"As ready as I'll ever be." Tom took the mirror and breathing deeply

looked at his new tattoo. "I like it, I didn't think that I would

but I do."

 

"I'm glad."

 

"You do good work." Tom kissed Chakotay. "I love you Chak."

 

"I love you Tom, I always have." Chakotay took Tom by the hand and

pulled him from the chair, which immediately disappeared. Tom turned

and the crew got its first look and his new tattoo.

 

The applause was thunderous. On and on it went, finally Captain

Janeway had to motion for silence.

 

"Ladies and Gentlemen, since the very first ocean going ships, it has

always been the Captain's privilege and responsibility to perform

weddings on board their ships. I am honored to be able to perform

this one. Tom, Chakotay please join hands."

 

Tom smiled at Janeway.

 

"Tom you have something special, please proceed."

 

Tom turned and looking deeply into Chakotay's eyes waited for the

music to begin. As it did he began to sing, the title of the song

was Forever and ever, by Randy Travis. It was an ancient song,

originally recorded in the 1990's on earth, however the words fit

perfectly with Tom's emotions.

 

As Tom's voice beautifully performed the music, Chakotay's eye's

filled with tears, soon everyone within the sound of Tom's voice had

tears flowing down their faces, even Captain Janeway. Finally Tom

brought the song to a close.

 

"That was beautiful Tom." Chakotay whispered, Tom reached over and wiped away

Chak's tears.

 

Janeway struggling for control then led the couple though the

standard vows, and pronounced them married.

 

"You may kiss each other." She instructed.

 

Tom and Chakotay kissed each other deeply. Whistles and catcalls

sounded all over the holodeck.

"Computer, end program," The doctor ordered. Immediately the

holodeck powered down. "Computer run Program Chakotay-Paris

reception."

 

The holodeck became a huge reception hall. Neelix stepped in, "I

need help with the food. Since the ship is on a skeleton crew would

some of you be so kind." A small army of crewmen moved to lend a

hand.

 

"No! Chakotay, tell me Neelix didn't do the cooking! Everything will

be full of leola root."

 

"No he didn't, in fact our Captain of many talents shoved him aside

and took over when it looked like he was going start adding spices."

 

"Kathryn did this?"

 

"Yes, she's a marvel that woman. Come on let's take our places."

Chakotay and Tom moved to the head table and waited on Janeway to

take her place.

 

"Ladies and Gentlemen, I propose a toast, to House Paris-Torres-

Chakotay, may your life together be long on love and short on strife,

may your sons be strong and your daughters beautiful!" Janeway

brought her glass to her lips and drank, as did the rest of the party.

 

Just then Janeway's communicator chirped.

 

"This better be good, Janeway here."

 

"Captain Janeway, we've just received a DataStream from the

federation, I took the liberty of forwarding a vid of the ceremony to

Admiral Paris, as well as Chakotay's father Kolopak."

 

"Very good, is that all Tuvok?"

 

"No Captain within minutes another micro wormhole opened and the

Admiral informed us to standby, that within the hour he would contact

us again."

 

"Oh, god!" Tom was stunned, what was his father going to do.

 

"Calm down, love. We're out here in the delta quadrant and he's in

the alpha quadrant, what can he do?"

 

"Nothing I hope."

 

"Tuvok, alert me immediately upon the contact. Connect the

transmission to the arch's com board. I'll have a word with the

admiral first."

 

"Yes, Captain. Tuvok out."

 

"Alright people, we're going to have a guest via long range

communications, very long range. Until then enjoy, the cook worked

very hard on this meal."

 

The wedding party began to eat with delight, it wasn't often that

they were presented with a meal that wasn't improved upon by their

over enthused cook.

 

Tom was barely able to eat anything, in spite of his mate's words he

worried at what his father could be up to.

 

Finally, Janeway was signaled.

 

"If you'll all excuse me, Computer Arch," The arch control panel

appeared and she moved to it.

 

"Captain Janeway, it's good to finally see you."

 

"Admiral Paris, always a pleasure. To what do we owe this long

distance call?"

 

"Kathryn, I was appalled to hear about my daughter-in-law's passing.

How is Tom taking it, I mean, I saw the wedding that was going on to

make it possible for the new Klingon house. Is this what he wanted?"

 

"I assure you Admiral, his is happy with the arrangement, however,

his new spouse was chosen by B'Elanna before her death."

 

"How will Chakotay bear Tom many sons? I mean he's a male, isn't he?"

 

Janeway smiled, "Yes, Chakotay is very much a male. Let me bring in

our resident expert on the subject. Doctor, please come here."

 

The Doctor strode over to the arch, "Yes Captain?"

 

"Please explain to the Admiral how Chakotay will bear children for

House Paris-Torres."

 

"Admiral, B'Elanna donated her eggs to this endeavor and using

genetic material from both fathers, I will  mix the genetic

material and stimulate the formation of the human zygotes. Then the

zygote will by placed within a borg maturation chamber and be allowed

to grow and mature at the normal rate of a nine month gestation

period."

 

"Amazing, how many children are Tom and Chakotay planning on having?"

 

"Why don't you ask him yourself Admiral? Tom, Chakotay, please come

here."

 

"Well, it can't be too bad, Kathryn is smiling. Let's go see him."

Chakotay took Tom's hand and practically pulled him to the archway.

 

"Tom, Chakotay let me say first and foremost congratulations! I wish

your union to be a fruitful one."

 

"Oh it will be, we stopped by sickbay last night."

 

"So you did, and just the ceremony your second child took up

residence in the maturation chamber."

 

"So soon?" Asked Janeway.

 

"We both want a big family Kathryn."

 

"Yes, we decided on seven boys and seven girls."

 

"FOURTEEN KIDS!" Janeway was stunned.

 

"Not all at once Kathryn. We'll have them over time."

 

The Admiral was grinning from ear to ear. "I have some good news,

the Klingon High Council has just responded to the ceremony vid, they

are sending their top scientists to work with ours on a way to get

you home. Also I have a surprise, Captain which of your cargo bays

are empty?"

 

"Take your pick except for cargo bay 12."

 

"Are we ready? Energize." The Admiral was addressing someone off

screen.

 

Janeway's combadge chirped, "Janeway go ahead."

 

"Captain all cargo holds onboard have been filled. Preliminary scans

show everything from dilitem crystals to some more esoteric food

items."

 

"We've been working on this for sometime Captain. Unfortunately, we

can only transport material otherwise we'd bring you home now. I

hope the supplies help, maybe you can stop such strict rationing."

 

"Thank you Admiral." Tears were flowing down Janeway's face. "This

will be a great help."

 

"Yes, I know, damn it bill me for it! Energize the transporter. Tom

here is my wedding gift to you and Chakotay. First all the Marquis

aboard have been pardoned, and granted the ranks that Captain Janeway

awarded as field commissions. Tom you have been promoted to Lt.

Commander."

 

"Dad, I mean Admiral,"

 

"I like the first one better, son."

 

"Dad, thank you."

 

"I'm not done yet. You will find that a box should have been

transported to the center of the room; inside you'll find the rest of

your wedding present. I have to close the energy expended is immense

and these tech heads are threatening to make me pay the power bill.

I love you Tom, Chakotay, remember you are a part of our family, I'll

have a your father here at the next DataStream. Until then, carry

on."

 

The transmission ended. Tom was stunned, as was Chakotay. "We're

all Starfleet now!"

 

Janeway touched her combadge "Ship wide PA, This is The Captain, I

have just been informed by Starfleet command that all Marquis

personnel onboard Voyager have hereby been pardoned, and granted the

rank which you were granted by way of field commission.

Congratulations to you all. We'll handle the paperwork once we get

back to Earth."

 

As the announcement ended, a huge "hurray" went up from the crowd in

the holodeck.

 

"Let's see what we have in the box," Tom said turning to face

it. "Whoa! Dad what have you done?" The box was four meters tall

and about 8 meters wide.

 

"Help me with the lid Tommy, let's see what Pop sent us." Chakotay

and Tom both took hold of the lid and opened it.

 

"Tomato soup and crackers! Chakotay, look he sent mushroom soup for

you!" There were cases of soup inside the box, enough to last Tom and

Chakotay a year easily.

 

"Tom look at these, Chakotay opened two boxes inside were gold bands

bearing their names."

 

"Looks like dad didn't bother to brush up on his Klingon etiquette.

I like the gold better though. Look clothes, vids, books, ya know we

could have replicated all of this."

 

"Tom where are we going to put all this stuff?"

 

"I can answer that Commander and Lt. Commander, orders just came in.

It seems you two are the new Klingon ambassadors to the delta

quadrant. We are to take three sets of quarters and convert them to

ambassadors quarters." Janeway was laughing, it seems that your new

government was insulted at the size of your personnel quarters.

 

"Captain, I ah, I'm sorry."

 

"Tom, stow that, after everything you've been though you deserve it.

However until you new quarters are ready we can store this, well no

we can't either. I forgot that all the cargo bays are full."

 

"Captain, we can store it in my old quarters, I'll be moving in with

Lt Commander Paris now."

 

"Good idea, I'll tell you what. I'll get the wedding party to help

move this stuff, you two go on, after it is your wedding night."

 

"Thank you Captain."

 

"I'll expect both of you, Ambassadors to be on duty in two days,

bright eyed and bushy tailed. Imagine, my pilot a Klingon

ambassador." Janeway was shaking her head as she walked over to the

rest of the crew and asked for volunteers to help move the wedding

gifts to storage.

~*~

 

The End

 

 

 

 

Hosted by www.Geocities.ws

1 1 1 1