The Grove of Siddhi

by Sheena (Micca), 1997

Disclaimer: Star Trek Voyager and its characters is the property of Paramount. No infringement on copyright is intended.

Please do not post or distribute this story without the author's permission.

Sheena's Notes: Thank you to Kath and Brenda for their brilliant editing and thank you to Lor for her encouragement. Thanks Jim for teaching how to use my computer. Siddhi means perfection in Hindi and the rituals are taken from Judaism, Tibetian Buddhism, and the Muslim faith. No disrespect intended. Please send comments to [email protected]

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The reports on long range scans looked promising. A new system with two class-M planets; one inhabited by a pre-warp civilization and a second that did not seem to have any civilization at all. The system seemed so quiet and peaceful that Janeway felt the hair on the back of her neck stand on end. She shook off the thought and returned to her data pads. Systems were all in good shape but as always foodstuffs and shore leave for the crew where important. With the arrival of two new babies on board there was the attraction of planet side for developing muscles and parents rattled nerves. Janeway smiled as she thought of Ensign Wildman's daughter who was a toddler now. She was the apple of everyone's eye and she had a special place in her heart for (of all people) Tuvok. All the children on board seemed drawn to him, he was a father, after all. Janeway halted that train of thought; it always started well enough but often ended in regrets over loved ones back home. The promise of shore leave should not be wasted on regrets. She glanced at her bridge crew and smiled inwardly, if anyone needed a shore leave it was the bridge crew. She and Chakotay included.

Harry Kim looked twice at his console and then a third time to make sure it was not a bad dream, before he brought his discovery to the Captains attention.

"Captain Janeway," his voice broke a little he did not want to delivery any bad news. "The second M-class planet is...." He stuttered to a stop. Janeway looked at him, concerned. It took her only a moment to situate herself behind his station. Chakotay stood on the other side of the console. He leaned forward as he saw the expression on her face.

"What is it? "Chakotay asked quietly.

"A Holocaust," Janeway whispered in disbelief.

"Yellow alert. I want full reports on scanners and anything else you can find out about this mess and who made it. Check with Neelix to see if he knows anything about this. Tuvok check for warp signatures, DNA - anything to tell us who did this and when and whether they are still around to do it to us. You have two hours."

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Janeway sat in her ready room a ball of unfocused anger building up in her gut. Pity the next person who spoke to her they may well get part of the wrath that was building there. The reports that she was reading painted a picture of unspeakable destruction of the planet that they orbited. From some partially damaged archives her crew were starting to piece together a story that was painfully familiar among the history of many races.

The Tranqui were a race that approximately 400 years ago began a cultural spiritual journey. Not unlike the Vulcan race, the Tranqui had developed along technological paths but at some point the culture took a turn, slowed its technological advantages, and concentrated to social and spiritual development. The records at this point started to change and there was some damage. Basically this was a planet and a people who changed their focus and embraced peace and harmony with in there sociality and with their world, then the sky fell in on them. From what was left her team had managed to piece together that a invasion force had come and raped the land. There was some resistance but in the end result was that the communities and, from what the current scans where suggesting, every sentient being on the planet was destroyed.

Janeway's anger was tempered by the sadness that she felt. Whole sections of the settlement had been vaporized, but what was left was very beautiful. Buildings that were more akin to sculpture than to architecture were the rule. The community seemed to be developed from an artistic base where function and artistry were matched. The beauty of the place made the destruction somehow worse.

The door to her ready room buzzed and slid open and Chakotay stepped in. He took one look at the Captain's face and decided to say as little as possible; he had been on the receiving end of that look and never wanted to experience it again.

"Captain?" he questioned.

Janeway let go a long breath and stood up. A little of the anger seamed to smooth away. Had it been anyone but her 1st officer she may have blown him out of the room. He had the ability to help calm and settle her, to take her powerful energy and focus it, just with his presence.

"Anything else to add to this mess Commander?" her voice was suddenly tired. Anger had left her empty.

"We have found a survivor."

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"Status Mr. Tuvok!" Janeway barked as she marched on to the bridge.

"The incident seems to have occurred three standard years ago, Captain. All indicators suggest that the planet was targeted for its rich supply of dilithium. Undoubtably, the attackers required it for warp technology. A vast amount has been mined in an apparent strip mining operation virtually destroying the southern continent. The planet's limited warp fleet was destroyed, but there are indications that two ships may have escaped the planet. At this time we believe that the attackers left the planet two years ago and have not returned. Their origin and species is unknown to us." Tuvoks monotone rolled over the bridge.

Janeway turned to Chakotay.

"Survivor singular?"

"Yes Captain, we have scanned the planet. There are many life signs mostly animals and birds some aquatic mammals but only the one humanoid sign. On the northern continent three hundred kilometres from the nearest settlement. Life signs appear normal as far as we can tell with no standard for comparison. There is no technology of any type signaling at this location."

She turned on her heels and moved towards her ready room with Chakotay following.

"Here's a question for you," she said as the door closed. "Prime directive says we can contact a warp civilization, which this is. We are encouraged to assist civilizations in danger due to hostile threat as long as we do not give superior technology or unfair advantage." She paused holding her hands wide in front of her. "But there is no civilization here. There is no warp technology. In fact, there is no hostile threat. Do we just take what we need and leave or do we offer aid and assistance to one lone person?" Janeway seemed vexed. "My instinct is to save this soul, but from what and where did the other ship go?" Janeway was working herself back into a fury. Chakotay stepped towards her and touched her arm. She startled as if she had forgotten he was present.

"Let's go ask some questions."

Janeway led her away team, Tuvok, Harry Kim, and the E.M.H., to the transporter room. Chakotay had the bridge. Janeway was preparing for a first contact protocol, the strangest of her career. The ensign on the transporter programmed the coordinates for three hundred meters away from the survivor.

The team appeared on the planet and fanned out in a standard formation to proceed towards the life signs. As the away team approached what appeared to be the main structure of the encampment, Janeway slowed them to a crawl. She wanted to assess the meaning of this place. The grounds were circular and each direction of the compass was marked with a gleaming building. The grounds were breathtaking.

"Captain," Tuvok spoke solemnly. "This seems to be some kind of a religious center. There is no technology here of any kind, perhaps that explains why it seems relatively untouched by the destruction. Our survivor is approaching." Tuvok pointed to the edge of the encampment.

A tall man appeared his thick black hair pulled back from a high forehead and broad face. His hair was held in a shoulder length pony tail and wrapped in black cloth. He wore a black ankle length open robe and under it a woven white tunic to just below his knees, belted with a black cloth belt. His appearance was very humanoid. He had the bearing that Janeway attributed to religious leaders.

He had yet to see them. He was walking clockwise around the encampment. He walked within a meter of them and did not react or make eye contact. Two black dogs, or something very similar, walked at his side and both raised their hackles when they saw the away team, but did not approach.

Janeway watched, puzzled and concerned that the trauma of what had happened here had left this young man catatonic. As they watched he stopped and raised his hands over his head, bringing them together lightly, and touched his lips with his fingers. Then slowly he turned and examined the away team. His eyes blinked furiously, as if too much light were in them and then looked at the dogs who lay at his feet. He seemed to be checking to see if they could see what he was seeing. Both dogs growled softly. He touched their heads and they lay perfectly still. Taking one step forward he pulled his hand through his hair trying to make a decision about what to do next. He looked from Janeway to Harry and the Doctor but when his locked eyes with Tuvok he made a choice. He walked briskly forward and raised his left hand palm up then clenched it as he struggled to find words.

"I am Taruk."

"Kathryn Janeway of the federation Star ship Voyager. We have come to help you if we can."

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Janeway paced her ready room concerned about the correct course of action to take. Communication with this man had been slow. She was wondering if perhaps he was mentally delayed or had a hearing problem as he said very little. He was interested in coming aboard Voyager. She wanted the Doctor to do a work up and find out what his physical situation was. As she paced she read the padd that was in her hand.

This planet was amazing even with the strip mining that went on in the southern continent, the planet could produce enough dilithium to last them six months. The possibilities for food and supply were unbelievable. How do you approach a man whose race has been destroyed and ask him you can take more from his planet? The door chimed. Chakotay entered with a smile on his lips and he sat down without invitation. Janeway looked at him in mild surprise.

"Chakotay?" she asked.

"He is a most unusual man." Chakotay watched her move towards him like a fish on a line; he knew just how to strike her interest.

"As you know his name is Taruk and he is a shaman or a priest of some kind. When the Vixmatic attacked the planet he and a small groups of students, religious leaders and some lay people managed to escape the planet in one of their warp class ships. They hid on an M-class planet in the next sector. The other ship joined them and they set out to find somewhere long term to stay until the danger had passed. At that point they planned to return. Taruk refused. He waited three months and then on a small shuttle alone he made his way back to the planet. He keeps saying that he must perform the rites of the dead or all the souls who died during the invasion will not assent to the next life. Kathryn, he needs our help. He believes that without the death rite the souls of his people are left in anguish on this planet forever."

Taruk of the Tranquil paced back and forth in the small guest quarters of the ship Voyager. He was uncertain about the choices that he had made. As yet he had found no pair who could make the ritual of death and celebration of life become a reality. He was feeling as if the time was running out. He had hoped that when he returned home, after the destruction, he would have found survivors performed the ceremony and then rejoined the group who had escaped. There were no survivors. This Voyager was his last hope.

Commander Chakotay and Captain Janeway entered the room, she slightly ahead of him, not touching but their bodies seemed adjusted to each other. Taruk stood up and walked towards them. They watched him carefully as he circled around them. He was almost sure that these people could perform the ritual. Power, control, heightened awareness, peace(this from the man) and compassion. Taruk tentatively placed one hand on Chakotay's shoulder and the other on Janeway's. Yes, he thought this was the pairing required to make such an important ritual.

"Taruk." Chakotay meet his gaze as Taruk stepped back. "The Captain has a few questions." Chakotay's tone was strong and the meter of his voice slow, as if talking with a child.

"I would imagine you have many, Captain Janeway." Taruk's voice sounded clear and confident. Both officers were surprised. "Do not be concerned. I have been in a state of on-going meditation since I returned to the planet almost two years ago. It is difficult to communicate with others when I'm in this state. When I first saw your party on the planet I thought you where a meditative hallucination. I have had them before. My vistas," he glanced down at the animals at his feet, "reaction to you was the only reason I knew you were real. It has been a very long time since I have spoken to another person it will take me some time to acclimatize."

Taruk did not explain that meeting the people who would perform the ceremony had allowed him to remove himself from his prayer state. There was time to explain all this as they learned about one another.

"The Vixmatic, why did they attack your planet?" Janeway sat leaning forward toward Taruk, hands grasped together on her knees, intense.

"My planet has a long and turbulent history but in the last four hundred years we have managed to build a society based on peace, negotiation and pacifism. We are successful diplomats and negotiators. We travel within two or three systems and have found a way to coexist with almost all life forums that we have encountered. In the last fifty years there has been a disturbing change in our political lives. A small but very verbal group of advocates felt that we were being taken advantage of because we refused to become involved in the conflicts among our trading group. The advocates warned that unless we started to make alliances with the more powerful of the trading groups we would be left out of any and all future negotiation. Without governmental approval these advocates began supplying weapons and technology to the larger of the two parties and in the end our government was drawn into a conflict that we could not win. The Vixmatic refused to accept that we had not betrayed our code of ethics and began to raid the planet. The advocate group began to supply frightened people with weapons that they had collected from other sectors. The Vixmatic exterminated the planet. The few of us that escaped had little knowledge of how far the destruction had gone and who was left to perform the rituals. We heard rumors from other travelers that the planet was devoid of life. That was when I knew what I had to do." Taruk stopped. His body had become more and more tense has he had told the story. He took four cleansing breaths to clear his mind and continued his story.

"When I returned to our home I was devastated at the destruction of my world. Every soul on the planet was dead. Some type of weapon that I could not have conceived of liquefied every Tranqui, not plants or animals just people. The southern continent was decimated the dilithium ripped from the ground."

Chakotay looked at the floor thinking that the destruction of his home world was not unlike Taruk's. Kathryn unconsciously reached out and covered Chakotay's hand with her own. In some small way she understood his pain and Taruk's.

"Taruk how can we help you?"

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Day one

Taruk arrived at dawn and lead Chakotay and Captain Janeway to a magnificent grove of trees; green, exotic, lush. Intense was the only word that came to the Captain's mind.

The grove was dark and Taruk led them effortlessly down the narrow and winding paths.. For the first time since she had met this young man, Captain Janeway had seen past the controlled emotions of shock. His tall frame seemed to smooth and his walk became fluid.

His shoulders lost their tension and his arms swung gently the flow of the black and white robes became a whisper. Captain Janeway glanced over at Chakotay noticing that the same transformation had over taken him.

The tense line of his jaw was soft, his breathing was deep and satisfied. Her scientific mind clicked on thinking, *more oxygen from the trees. Must be a stream or running water negatively charging the ions changing the mood.* She wasn't fooling herself, it was this place this amazing beautiful place.

In all her travels Kathryn Janeway had never seem such a place. As they walked, the light stole into the grove and unveiled a place of beauty and peace. A stream wound gently along the base of the trees. The center of the grove was thick with tall green grass and wild flowers in a hundred colours.. Colours seemed more intense here, that word again.

As they came to the middle of the grove a circle of large stones appeared as if they had grown from the ground amongst the grass. Shaped like huge turtle eggs a deep terra cotta red they seemed to reflect warmth. Beyond the rocks was a small pond shaded by a tree reminiscent of a weeping willow. Taruk placed the heavy bag that he carried on the ground and smiled warmly at Janeway and Chakotay.

"Welcome to the grove of Siddhi. You do my people great honour by coming here to perform the most important ritual of our spiritual life. I thank you for this."

His face seemed joyous at such a simple thing Kathryn thought as he disappeared in the trees.

Chakotay looked at his Captain and smiled widely his dimples made her grin back.

"It's like something out of a King Arthur novel. Welcome to Avalon, my lady," he said, bowing deeply.

As the day wore on Kathryn and Chakotay set up for themselves a comfortable camp. There was a good supply of wood for a fire and a large ring of fire stones. Chakotay seemed eager to set up camp and settle into the routine, not unlike the way he had on new Earth.

'Practical,' Kathryn thought, as she puttered around after him trying not to get in his way. She examined the flora and fauna of the grove taking mental notes. Taruk had asked that they bring no technology with them into the grove. Soon the camp was established and dinner could be prepared.

"Cooking another one of my jobs?" Chakotay circled around Kathryn smiling.

"I'll cook, really, if you like." She decided to call his bluff. He winced a little at the thought. "All right, I'll do something else. How about I read the ritual rites while you cook? Safer and, of course, easier on our stomachs."

"Deal. It is in the canvas bag. "

Kathryn dug around in the bag until she found the book. She had never seen a book like this except in a museum. It was bound in soft rich brown leather. She rolled her fingertips loving across the binding a smile lit her face. The feeling was like silk. Forgetting that Chakotay was standing beside her, she released a satisfied breath.

Chakotay glanced over at her in surprise; her sigh was almost erotic. He had no idea that his Captain was so passionate about books. He enjoyed the sound and pretended that he hadn't heard hoping he would have the opportunity to hear it again.

Kathryn sat perched on a rock her legs swing slightly as she scanned the book. The book was written in the language of Taruk's people but before leaving the ship she had had the book translated into basic and each page was matched with illustrations. She turned several pages until she found the section that seemed to apply to their situation. A small wave of sadness overcame her when she remembered all those lives. She tried to focus on Taruk's belief that all those souls were awaiting new life and that was why she and Chakotay were here.

"Kathryn," Chakotay whispered, breaking her musings, "read."

"Sorry, this language is very lovely. It reminds me written Thai." Chakotay raised an eye brow at her. "Okay, the celebration of the death ritual has four parts each in honor of the four directions of the world, north, south, east and west. It also celebrates the basics of all life: fire, earth, wind, and water. The rites must be performed by," Kathryn stopped reading, "I think they mean a man and a woman but the translation is unclear. The rites take place over the course of four days and must be performed in the groves of Siddhi. A "Teacher" must assist in this ceremony but cannot participate."

"On the first day of the ceremony the fire of life must be lit from a central fire and each stone must have a flame upon it. The fire must be allowed to burn itself out and not be extinguished by hand. The eight stones form the circle of life and the participants may not leave the circle. Physical contact between the participants is required, no food may be consumed but ritual wine may be partaken."

"This portion of the ceremony begins the freeing of the souls of the dead from the body and from the bounds of this world."

Kathryn closed the book and looked over at Chakotay. Her expression was solemn with the weight of what this ceremony meant passing between them. Chakotay broke off the look when he burnt his hand on the cooking pot. Kathryn poured water from a glass jug over his hand, cooling the fingers and relieving the pain. She gently held his wrist while she examined the redness on the base of his thumb.

"Maybe you should light the fires," he joked. She released his hand. "Thank you let's eat. Sound like we are going to be busy."

As the sun began to set Chakotay fed the fire in the center ring until its light splashed across the ring of stones. Kathryn took eight large saffron coloured candles from the bag and lined them up on the ground. A length of red cloth had held the candles bound firmly together. Taruk had explained parts of the ceremony while they were on board the ship. The cloth was to be tied around Kathryn's right hand and Chakotay's left from the time the first candle was lit until the last candle had burnt down . Before tying the cloth both officers had removed their jackets. The warm evening had lost its breeze and the fire heated the area still more. Chakotay gently tied their hands together and they lit all eight of the candles moving around the circle clockwise.

"What now?" Kathryn felt awkward, shifting her hand and fingers trying to find a comfortable position. She was all too aware of the proximity of her first officer.

"This kind of weird," he whispered into her ear as he led them over to the southern rock. He had placed pillows and sleeping bags to make them a comfortable nest to watch the firelight. As they sat, he slid her hand into his and entwined their fingers. "Better?" Again his voice was a whisper as he adjusted their bodies until she leaned comfortably into him with her head on his shoulder. A grin graced his face as he watched her turn a pleasing shade of pink

"Captain Janeway, I believe you are blushing." He grinned widely at her.

"Commander, we are here to participate in a ceremony of reverence not an excuse for a cheap thrill." Her voice sounded only half serious but Chakotay turned her face up to his. He caressed the line of her jaw with his fingertips.

"This is a celebration of the passing of the souls to a joyous place and the embracing of life, Kathryn." His free hand pulled the band that held her hair allowing it to spill over his hands. "Just for the next the next four days let's leave the ship and the crew and our responsibilities out in space and just be people. I'm not asking for anything. Let's just be not weighing every word based on the reaction of the crew or the command protocols that dictate our life. Just be Kathryn Janeway; woman." *Amazing, beautiful, and passionate woman* he added to himself.

Kathryn listened in awe to what Chakotay was saying. Her lingering grief over this planet began to dissolve. She felt the beginnings of a peace that she remembered from her childhood. It was a wonderful feeling of belonging in a place or with a person that seemed to start in her toes and spread like warm sunlight throughout her body. They sat that way content watching the fire and the candles. As the fire died down the air around them began to cool and Kathryn was sorry that she had removed her jacket. A chill ran along her arms. His eyes closed, Chakotay ran his hand along her arm.

"Cold?"

His answer was a "hmm." He pulled one of the blankets over them wrapping them in a cocoon of warmth. Again she shivered but not from the cold, as he pulled her into his lap.

"Just keeping my Captain warm," he said, brushing his lips against her ear. Chakotay knew that at some point this was going to have to stop. But until she stopped him or until his arm or other parts of his body screamed at him he was going to enjoy his Captain.

Day Two

At some point during the night Chakotay and Kathryn had repositioned themselves. When they woke they lay face to face bound arms clutched to Chakotay's chest and their free arms wrapped around each other's torso. Chakotay, awakening first, carefully removed his arm from the curve of Kathryn's hip. He studied her face intently. He hadn't slept very well as every time she moved he had to reposition himself to cut down on his obvious arousal. She, however, seemed to sleep deeply and peacefully. He wondered what her reaction would be when she awoke. Her behavior last night, completely proper, was out of character. He knew that the reason for this change in behavior was due to this magical place. He had been to ceremonial places that had a tendency to lessen inhibitions and this was decidedly one of those places.

As he read through the ritual text last night its real purpose became; it was, in fact, a rebirth ceremony. According to the ritual great joy would come if this ceremony was to produce a child, a product of the loss of life. He was positive that Kathryn had know idea of the intention of the ceremony. He smiled slightly. Kathryn Janeway pregnant, what a wonderful thought. Kathryn stirred to wakefulness.

Kathryn opened her eyes slowly, she could feel his breath on her cheek. The whole evening flooded back over her. Embarrassment first, then surprise, and then relief as he smiled at her.

"Good morning, Captain." Chakotay untied their hands and started tidying up the camp. Taruk and his two vistas appeared in the clearing. He was carrying another bag of supplies, including civilian clothing for both of them.

"Captain, Commander." Taruk smiled and started to prepare breakfast.

Taruk stayed with Janeway and Chakotay until the sun began to set. He had brought food and seedlings, glass beads and clay. The three had spent the afternoon on their hands and knees planting small trees. Taruk found fruit trees that had been planted in his childhood and shared the fruit for their lunch.

"These were for my Grandparents, these for my Father. This is a special place for my family. " Taruk was not saddened by the loss, he was joyful of the memory.

"The glass beads are to be placed around the stones buried on the four sides of each. As the sun sets the clay is to be molded into a figure. Don't worry Captain, no one will see your figure; they are to be placed at the base of a tree in the morning."

Kathryn and Chakotay ate a quiet dinner then fueled the fire to have enough light to work with the clay. After half an hour Kathryn had managed to cover her arms, face and hair in clay and had not produced a recognizable figure. Frustrated, she tossed the clay on to the ground.

"I paint, I do not sculpt."

"You just need to stop thinking about the product and start thinking about the process. Just visualize the figure's head." Strong fingers molded her clay into the form. As she watched carefully, he reached out and took her hands, placing one on her clay and the other on his face. "See with your hands not your eyes." She glanced at her hands then his face. "Close your eyes, use both hands." She did as asked and moved her hands from his face to his shoulders, along his chest. "Now try to reproduce that with the clay. Keep your eyes closed."

Her hands seemed to remember the curves of his body and the small piece of clay started to resemble a human form. As her hands moved along the figure she opened her eyes and started to blush. Chakotay kindly and wisely pretended not to notice. He returned to his own figure. When they had finished Kathryn excused herself to clean up in the small pond to the north of their camp.

"Kathryn, I'm not sure if that is wise. Taruk mentioned there were some wild vistas about." Many of the dog like animals had been left to fend for them selves when the planet's residents had died.

"Then you will need to keep your eyes closed, this time, Commander." She smiled and headed to the water. "You can be next I'm afraid my hands were a bit messy."

Chakotay all but tripped over Kathryn's clothing neatly folded on the ground, beside a large towel. He touched the side of his face and arm; he was covered in slightly damp clay.

"Very funny Kathryn," he said softly.

"I heard that. The water's lovely."

As Chakotay's eyes adjusted to the low light he saw Kathryn slip into the water, her hair long down her back. He realized that he had been holding his breath. The fire and moonlight outlined her body and reflecting off her smooth shoulders.

"We haven't explored the pool yet," he said cautiously.

"Don't be such a mother hen, Chakotay." Kathryn turned to look at him stepping back as she turned and lost her balance toppling over with a slight yelp. Chakotay startled and ran into the water, fully clothed.

"Kathryn!" He spun around in a panic trying to locate her.

"I'm right here, Chakotay, what are you doing? I just lost my balance I'm fine." She laughed looking up at his panicked face. The water was quite deep, up to her collarbone. Turning, he stomped out of the water. She followed, grabbing her towel and clothing as she walked. He was obviously annoyed with her. When they reached the camp she moved aside to change.

The time that it took her to change was a good thing. Not only was he angry that she wasn't careful enough but he was aroused at the slight of her in the water. He needed time to get himself under control.

Day three

Chakotay slept better than the previous night but was not as happy upon awaking. Kathryn was already awake. She picked up the two clay figures, as Taruk instructed, and wrapped them in the red cloth that had bound them together the first night. Unaware that Chakotay was watching she gently stroked the figure she had made before she closed the bundle. She walked slowly towards the edge of the woods, watching for any sign of danger. She arrived at a large tree that seemed to be this world's version of an oak.

With her hands and a stone she dug a hole at the base of the tree and buried the two figures. When she returned to the camp Chakotay had breakfast ready.

"I'm sorry, Chakotay." She laid her hand on his arm. He covered her hand with his. Both were at a loss for words.

"I was worried." He pulled her into his arms. She looked surprised but didn't pull back.

"There is something about this place that just makes me feel safe, or it could be I just feel safe with you." She turned her face up to his. Slowly, carefully, he kissed her.

She pulled back slightly but stayed in his arms. Taruk appeared at the edge of the clearing.

Taruk pretended not to notice that the Captain and Commander were in each other's arms. He was relieved. The time that he was spending on the ship was not reassuring as to the nature of the relationship between the two officers. It was more than obvious to him that these two were kindred souls together for many lives. During this lifetime they were in conflict; he prayed that it would not contaminate the ceremony.

As Taruk approached the Captain busied herself with the breakfast Chakotay had prepared. She was still blushing slightly when he reached them.

"Good morning Taruk." Chakotay was in a wonderful mood "What wonders of the Tranquil world do you have for us today?" He smiled widely and took the plate that Kathryn handed him.

"Day three is the day of wind. I hope that you are in the mood for a little physical exertion. Beyond the grove is a bluff. You are to climb to the top of the bluff and release these." Out of his robes Taruk took a small package about the size of a Talaxian tomato. He held it carefully, reverently. "These are the ashes of the dead. When you throw the package off the bluff they will open and spread the ashes throughout the valley. With so many dead unfortunately it is only symbolic." Taruk placed the package into the back pack. "These are the words of a prayer to say as you release them. This is one of the most beautiful parts of the ceremony."

He opened the ritual book and handed it to Chakotay, who read it carefully and packed it away. Taruk explained a bit more about the ceremony and bid them well.

Kathryn and Chakotay walked away from the grove and towards the bluff. Kathryn felt wonderful with her body looking forward to a challenging hike. Chakotay shouldered the heavy pack sack, walking along easily at her side. The clothing that Taruk had brought was perfect for hiking and much more flattering to Kathryn then her uniform. Chakotay smiled slightly when the path narrowed and he was forced to walk behind her.

This gave him the opportunity to play his "Watch the Captain" game. He usually played it on boring days on the bridge but also in the mess hall or at a staff meeting. The game was watch the Captain; her smile, the nape of her neck, the curve of a hip, the roundness of her bottom. This was his favorite time killer. The skill involved was not getting caught by the Captain, or the bridge crew or anyone, even himself. If he lingered too long the possibility of getting too involved in his imagination was very real and embarrassing. Several times he had to remain sitting after a meeting or a meal for a moment or two.

"Chakotay, what are you doing?" Kathryn called back to him. He hadn't noticed that the path had widened. He had been so busy watching the sway of her hips as she walked. She turned to look at him, he was smiling. "You are looking very guilty of something." He smiled broadly and glanced down quickly at her hips, his eyes lingering slightly. She started to blush.

"Do you do that on a regular basis Commander?" He watched her face carefully. She waited for his answer.

"Yes Ma'am," he said trying to hold back a grin. he was worried that she might be angry if he was too pleased with himself.

Kathryn was surprised at what she heard. She had also been guilty of watching him. Reaching out she took his hand and they walked on a little further.

"At least I can see what you're watching." When they reached the top of the bluff both were amazed at how lovely the valley was and how high they were above the grove. They sat side by side in contemplation of what they saw.

"We had better get this part of the ritual finished before it gets to late because I don't want to take that walk down in the dark." Kathryn smiled, respectful of his caution. Chakotay took her hand and raised it to his lips, gently kissing her fingers and then the palm.

"Thank you," he whispered, so softy that he was sure she couldn't hear him but his voice was clear to her, almost as if she heard his words in her mind. She shook off the thought.

There were several dozen packages in the nap sack. Each package was a slightly different colour ranging from indigo to sky blue to saffron to royal purple. They noticed a pair of large birds circling overhead riding on air currents. They threw packages so they were caught in the same currents and started to break open almost immediately. The coloured ashes began to fall. Kathryn shivered a little. Chakotay gathered her in his arms, chanting the words that Taruk had given them They watched in silence as the ashes washed the valley in colour and dissipated.

When they returned to the grove a wonderful meal awaited them as Taruk had been very busy. There was food, wine, a fire and two small incense burners. Chakotay smiled. This looked remarkably like a romantic dinner for the purpose of seduction. He caressed Kathryn's hand with his fingers and was rewarded with a slow smile and that erotic exhale he had wished for days ago.

Sitting down Taruk explained the rest of the third day.

"After your meal it is time to light the incense, they are enhancer. The incense only heightens the effect of the ceremony on the participant." Kathryn was about to react, but Taruk stopped her. "I spoke to your Doctor. This is not a drug, it will have no negative effects on you, it is merely an aid with the same effects as a familiar smell. It may be slightly stronger on humans then on the Tranqui, but have no fear, it is very safe." Chakotay watched her worried face. She turned to him unsure. He touched her face and whispered,

*Don't worry Kathryn.*

It happened again. She couldn't be sure but when he touched her it was as if she could hear his thoughts. Chakotay stared into her eyes so captured by them that he didn't notice that Taruk had left.

"Chakotay I have been having the strangest experience. Every time you touch me I think I can hear what you are thinking." Kathryn spoke very quietly she knew that this would remind him of the experience he had with the Borg. She didn't want to bring up those memories for either of them. Chakotay closed his eyes before she could see the pain in them, he was afraid that she would pull away from him. Instead she took both of his hands in hers and placed them on her face. He seemed to start breathing again as she touched him.

*Don't pull away please.*

Kathryn hadn't said any words but it was clear to Chakotay that he could now* hear* when they were in physical contact.

The incense spread a wonderful fragrance around them. It seemed to engulf them, soothe them, and surround them with peace. All Kathryn wanted to do was swim into those brown eyes. They lay quietly, tired after the long hike, reflecting on the nature of a people who believed so strongly in the spiritual side of their lives. For Chakotay it was the realization of a dream. For Kathryn it was delving into a totally unknown world. She had always battled between her emotional artistic side and her intellectual scientific side.

The concept that the two disciplines could live in symmetry was fascinating.

They had been very careful touching each other for fear of the new connection but the properties of the incense allowed them to feel more comfortable. Cautiously they began to experiment. They sat opposite each other, knees almost but not quite touching. Kathryn put both of her hands out in front of her resting on her knees. Chakotay laid his hands along her arm, fingers brushing the sensitive skin. Kathryn almost jumped at the intensity of the connection. She watched as he stroked up and down her arms his eyes closed, his breath deep, solid almost meditative.

She had a sudden desire to breathe him into her lungs. Moving to hover above him she inhaled what he exhaled. It filled her body with peace and passion. These were two emotions that she had never experienced together. Passion, in her experience, usually made her breath run short and her mind become agitated. This was different, this was a soft, slow luxurious build.

Chakotay felt like he was reading a book, all of Kathryn's impressions formed in his mind. The sensation of her breathing in his exhaled air was profoundly intimate. He remembered something about cultures breathing in baby's breath, so that the parent could touch their child's soul. His soul was not just touched, it was caressed.

"Kathryn." This was a whisper but she felt and heard it on many levels. He pulled her carefully down into his arms turning her so she faced away from him. Her back to his chest, she rested in his arms as he undid her hair. The texture of each strand, the warmth of her skin, the scent from her body engulfed him. They undressed each other, eager to explore the texture of their bodies. The idea of making love suddenly sprung to mind. Extraordinarily, even with the passion they both were feeling, it came as a surprise.

Kathryn pulled back, confused, all the emotions and sensations that they were experiencing were so tightly wrapped together that she wasn't sure whose sensation it was. She suspected that it may have been her own.

Chakotay gave it less thought. He replaced his explorations with his fingers with his mouth and felt Kathryn respond. The peacefulness was now matched by arousal and their breathing, which was in perfect synch, became rapid. Neither gave any thought to the complications that making love would have to the relationship or to their ship. This was a gift in itself. They also knew that tomorrow this would be a wonderful memory and neither would regret the experience. It would be part of this ritual and celebration of the lives of the people of this planet

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Kathryn and Chakotay awoke quite late in the morning wrapped in each others arms and the sleeping bags. Kathryn could not remember feeling so good in the morning since her childhood. She stretched luxuriously feeling the smoothness of his skin along her back. He started to stir as she rose from the nest where they slept. The amazing casualness of waking up together struck both of them and they realized that the effects of the incense had not left them. Dressing slowly, touching each other as often as possible as they did, they were unaware of Taruk's approach. Taruk wisely sensing that he should approach with considerable noise called out to them.

"Captain, Commander, good morning."

********************************************************

"It seems hard to believe this is our last day."

Chakotay watched Kathryn as she put out the food that Taruk had brought for their meal. The sun was low in the sky and the three had spent most of the day watering plants that they had planted. Collecting water from the stream the pond and from a small waterfall that Taruk had shown them. Taruk had left his two large vistas with them after having spotted a small group of the animals circling the camp yesterday. Both vistas had taken a liking to Kathryn and were watching her every move.

Apparently the presence of the two vistas would keep the others away.

"What shall we do tonight? Anymore rituals to perform, bluffs to climb, things to light on fire?" Kathryn lay back in their nest smiling at Chakotay, savoring the luxury their last night. She had never felt this relaxed in her entire life.

"There is one more thing," Chakotay said putting the book away. He paused waiting for her to ask. A mischievous grin moved across his face.

"What?" Kathryn moved to her knees leaning eagerly towards him.

"Ritual bathing," he managed before a huge smile captured his face.

"You're making this up!" she laughed, shaking her head in disbelief.

Chakotay pulled out the book again and sat down beside her.

"I'm not kidding; it's right here. It's open to interpretation however. Though I have a few suggestions about how we should handle it." He grinned at her then referred to the book again. "We are to wash the sweat and the dust from our bodies before our final rest in the grove. The water is to come from the four sources that we have gathered. This is a cleansing that allows us to return to our lives and end the ceremony." He paused. "Have you missed her?" Chakotay lay down on his side hand under his head, looking up at her. She understood exactly what he was asking, about her Voyager.

"No, yes, I'm not sure. It's like I'm separate from her, here and from them." She sounded contemplative but happy "But not worried the way I usually do when I'm away from them."

"You sound like your talking about your children."

"Aren't they our children? " Realizing what she said she fumbled, "I mean, our crews yours and mine..." She decided to stop before she totally embarrassed herself. They sat in silence for a moment. "Chakotay, we only have water from three sources: the stream, the pond, and the waterfall." Her voice was slightly panicked. He reached out and guided her hand into the folds of his shirt. A small stone bottle hung on a leather lace around his neck.

"Rain water from new Earth."

"You saved that all this time?" Her voice was deep with emotion.

"Yes." This time it was Kathryn who initiated the kiss, long and deep and totally satisfying.

Kathryn broke away first. Picking up her towel and the robe that Taruk had brought, she moved toward the three large clay containers. The two vistas walked with her and lay down near where she stood. Out of sight of Chakotay, or so she thought, Kathryn undressed and slowly bathed herself in the warm soft water from the containers. Chakotay, feeling a little ashamed of himself, moved so that he could watch as she bathed herself. He knew that the vistas would protect her from any harm but he was preparing a story in his mind about wanting to make sure she was safe, in case he was caught.

When Kathryn returned to the campfire she felt refreshed but deeply tired. Chakotay took his turn bathing. As he stripped down he wondered if he was being observed in the same way he had observed her. He rejected the thought, she was above such a childish actions. He dressed in the robe and returned to the fire. Lying on their backs side by side they watched the sky. As the moon set the stars became so clear that Chakotay felt that he could reach out and touch them. Their hands entwined, he raised them to his lips and kissed her fingers.

"When we first came to the Delta Quadrant I used to think I should find some planet somewhere and take my crew and start a new life. But then I looked at the sky. I saw those stars and remembered that all my life I longed to be there, traveling through them, being part of them. I thought that I would never be truly happy without them." He rolled over onto his side, facing her, running his free hand along her face. "If you asked me to never sail among them again I would happily give them up to be with you." He kissed her passionately then stood up and walked toward the pond.

"Where are you going?" Kathryn asked in surprise.

"For a quick swim in some hopefully very cold water. We can take this up on board Voyager. I don't want to damage what this ceremony was about because I couldn't control myself." He turned and walked away. One of the vistas trotted after him. The other curled up beside Kathryn its head on her lap.

"He is such an amazing man."

When Chakotay returned from the pond he was much more composed. He joined Kathryn and the two vistas that were curled up in their nest. The sky was crystalline and seemed oddly still. No gentle breeze, even the slight babbling of the stream emptying into the pond seemed to be muted. The sky was as clear as glass and the whole planet seemed stopped, motionless. Chakotay's sense of foreboding sharpened and he watched the vistas carefully, feeling their heightened senses would alert him to danger. Both animals were relaxed and showing no outward signs of distress.

"Kathryn?" Chakotay whispered "We forgot something, the rain water." He raised the small vile to his lips and took a small sip. Handed her the vile he smiled as she sipped the water. As he gently touched the side of her mouth he felt the vibration. It was not jarring like an earthquake or even disturbing like the feeling of large machinery in the distance. At first it seemed like the constant hum that they felt on board Voyager, but it was far more intense. Around them the circle of rocks began to emit a soft radiance as some type of inner light began to grow until soon all the rocks were consumed with light and humming gently.

Kathryn and Chakotay looked at each other in amazement as the ground around them began to glow and the light started to rise. The rising light was the exact colour of the ashes that they had spread across the valley. As they watched in wonder a low sigh filled their ears and the wind picked up. Starting as a gentle breeze it began to spin in wide lazy circles gathering the ashes with its movement. The force of the wind pulled gently on the surface of their skin making both shiver slightly. It felt for all the world like someone caressing them. The wind reached a swirling peak, the humming evolved into a whisper like thousand voices releasing a collective gasp of delight. The sky exploded into a cascade of coloured light.

"Aura Borealis," Kathryn whispered.

"All most as amazing as at home," Chakotay responded putting his arm around her .

"Better," she answered kissing him passionately.

************************************************

In the morning the Captain and Commander transported on to Voyager. The ensign who beamed them aboard was taken with the contentment on their faces, in their body language, in their manner. On the bridge the mood was jubilant. Taruk had given permission for the crew to harvest virtually everything they needed from the planet. Enough dilithium to keep B'Elanna happy and busy for months. Food storage was filled to the overflow limit. Neelix had planned a celebration to avoid wasting the food. Hydroponics had enough plants and seeds to begin a second level of planting.

The single most interesting acquisition had to be a sampling of the Tranquil technology and culture. These two areas of development went hand in hand. Taruk supplied thousands of novels, works of music, philosophy, whole libraries. The possibilities were endless. The rich cultural life of an all but destroyed people now lived with in the computer systems of Voyager. This life would be revisited and savored by a new generation of souls. Taruk felt grateful and proud that he could offer this gift to the ones who had delivered the souls of his people.

Taruk sat quietly in Captain Janeway's ready room. Chakotay and Kathryn looked at him patiently waiting for his answer.

"What would I do on board Captain?" he asked finally.

"At first we thought you might like to help Neelix in the kitchen. Quite frankly your cooking and familiarity with the food stuffs you brought aboard would be a considerable help." She smiled at her first officer. He had been much more direct when they had discussed Taruk's duties on board. "After we have gotten to know one another better, we would like you to consider being in charge of the children on board. Responsible for education and care of them when their parents are not available."

Taruk's expression was unreadable at first.

"Captain I would be deeply honored to join your crew. Thank you." He rose to leave. He flashed a radiant smile at them. "I have a few things to take care of on the planet, with your permission."

"Dismissed." She smiled at him. The vistas that sat at her feet stood up when he rose. "They are both welcome Taruk," she said, saving him the request. He signaled one of the animals to remain with the Captain. The other followed him out.

************************************************

At the party welcoming Taruk aboard, the crew enjoyed themselves but no one more than the Captain and her first officer. They worked the room, meeting and greeting everyone together and separately, but always aware of where the other one was. Quick smiles to one another the occasional light touch kept them in contact with each other as the night wore on. As the last crew exited the program, Chakotay called up an old tune from the holodeck program and smoothly pulled Kathryn into his arms.

"Well, Captain Janeway, having a good time?" he asked, drawing her closer than was proper for a Captain and her first officer.

"That's one of the best times I have ever had," she whispered into his ear with special emphasis on the word one. As the song finished he called for the program to end. They walked back to her cabin arms around each other, thankful the hallways were empty. Outside her door, Kathryn again found herself in his arms; she was a little worried that he would ask to come in. She was not ready to rush this relationship for fear of destroying it.

"Good night Captain," he said as he kissed her intimately, protectively and released her. She watched him walk toward his own quarters

"A truly remarkable man."

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