The BLTS Archive - Just A Guy by Zorrorojo (zorrorojo@my-dejanews.com) --- Disclaimer: Let's see, Star Trek Belongs to Viacom and Paramount (did I forget anyone). Highlander Belongs to Rysher and Panzler/Davis. All the characters you recognize are theirs. I think that would be all of them. Warnings: If you haven't figured it out yet, this is a slash story. Well actually it isn't. It's an Action/Adventure Character based story where the main characters are involved in a M/M relationship. Turn back now if that bothers you. The warnings on this one should be taken very seriously. Violence, Bad Language, torture, just about anything that could go wrong does. Hey its a long story :>) Proceed at your own risk. I mean it! --- Commander Chakotay walked into Sandrine's at 2200 hours and saw Tom Paris sitting alone in a booth nursing a beer. He ordered a synthehol for himself and approached the Lt.'s table. "Hey Tom, why are you hiding in the corner?" Chakotay felt the depression emanating from the younger man and hesitated before he sat down. "Do you mind if I sit with you?" "No, Commander, I don't mind, but I'm not going to be very good company tonight. I just came in here to sit quietly and have a drink." The Commander looked at the younger man taking in the sandy blond hair in need of a cut and the circles under the bright blue eyes. But the blue eyes weren't so bright tonight. Tom was dressed in black jeans and a black sweater which only highlighted his black mood. "Tom, are you having a hard time over your breakup with B'Elanna?" "Chakotay, that was two months ago. Besides it was mutual. We're still good friends." "Then why are you sitting here alone? I hardly ever see you with Harry anymore, and I haven't seen B'Elanna anywhere except engineering for two weeks." Tom sighed before he answered. Chakotay thought his heart was going to melt when he heard the loneliness in the young man's voice, "Harry is spending all of his time with Seven. Since we've been in this void with nothing to do, no planets, hardy any stars, they've been inseparable. I'm happy for him, I really am. I miss him and feel like a selfish asshole because he's happy and I'm jealous. Same story with B'Elanna, since she started seeing Henley, I haven't had anyone to just do stuff with. Not that there's anything to do anyway. I spend my days on the bridge with nothing to do. I don't really have to navigate in this void, straight and steady she goes. After my shifts, I've been going to sickbay just to have pass the time, then I come here and sit by myself. Our holodeck time has been cut because everyone's stir crazy and everyone is using all of their scheduled time." Tom was wallowing in self-pity now, and feeling guilty because he was begrudging his friends' happiness. When Chakotay looked at Tom, he thought he could see tears shining in the younger man's eyes. He's really lonely. The thought blindsided him. Tom Paris has lots of friends, why would he be lonely? "Tom you have other friends, why don't you play pool with someone? I thought you liked having a crowd in Sandrine's." "Chakotay, it's not the same as with Harry and B'Elanna, they know me. I can be just Tom around them. Listen to me, putting all my shit onto you, I'm sorry. But hey, I warned you I wouldn't be a good conversationalist tonight. I'm going to bed, good night Commander." "Night Tom." After the pilot left, Chakotay was lost in his own troubles. The Captain had been distant lately. She spent most of her free time, what of it she had, in her DaVinci program. He missed their dinners together and their conversations. He knew he wasn't in love with Kathryn anymore, too many years being held at arms length convinced him there would never be anything there. Tom's words only served to make Chakotay feel his own loneliness. He hadn't been spending much time with others lately either. He had been spending most of his own time meditating, exercising and enjoying his own limited holodeck time. An idea sprang into mind, but could he really spend that much time with Tom? Looking back, Tom Paris was not the same man who came aboard Voyager four and a half years ago. That Tom Paris had been a boy, not a man. Maybe he wasn't a boy in age, but in attitude and in maturity, he sure as hell was. Over the years, their relationship had evolved into mutual respect and they were finally comfortable with each other. It took a long time, but that is one thing they had out here. Voyager was feeling more and more like its own community everyday. People were pairing off, thinking about children, and settling into life in the Delta Quadrant. Solid friendships were being forged that would last long after they got home. Even if that day came tomorrow. The more time passed, the less division there was between Maquis and Starfleet. They were one crew, a village aboard a tiny ship. There were squabbles as in any tiny community, but nothing serious, and nothing that lasted beyond a few days. Tom's not the only one who's stir crazy, thought the Commander as he got up to leave. I'll talk to him tomorrow. --- Another boring day in the Delta Quadrant, thought Tom as he checked the chronometer on his navigation station. Paris it's five minutes after the last time you checked. Where's a piece of old fashioned tape when you needed one? He found himself drifting back to his days in the Academy and his boring ancient history class taught by a man that fit into Tom's young mind as ancient history himself. In actuality, the man was no older than eighty, but to Tom's sixteen, eighty was unimaginable. By the fifth day of class, Tom was checking the chronometer built into his workstation at least every five minutes. The damn numbers caught his eye over everything else. Seconds ticking away one by one as the old man droned on. It became a form of torture for the young Tom Paris. Two hours every day in a required class he couldn't get out of, that damn clock seemingly winking at him. One day, he brought an old fashioned roll of what had been known as Duct Tape to class with him. He had been watching a 20th century vid about some men in the military and was caught by the mention of everything held together on prayers and duct tape. That one sentence gave Tom an idea. He replicated some of the gray sticky stuff and brought it to class with him the next day. Within a week, every chronometer in the class was covered by the stuff. The class still sucked, but at least he didn't have a damn chronometer mocking him any more. --- When Tom came back from lunch, he had a roll of gray tape with him that Chakotay had never seen before. After about an hour, the Commander couldn't wait any longer. He walked down to helm control and looked over Tom's shoulder. He started to laugh out loud when he saw the covering over Tom's chronometer and whispered into Tom's ear. "Lt. you don't happen to have an extra piece of that do you? What is that stuff?" "It's old fashioned tape Commander, I couldn't stand that clock taunting me anymore, so I replicated it. It's an old trick I used to get through an ancient history class in the academy. Want to cover yours too?" He had expected to be reprimanded for his actions, and couldn't help flinching when the Commander had bent down to whisper to him. When Tom finally realized what Chakotay had said, he looked up at Chakotay, his unbelievably blue eyes were filled with laughter. Chakotay caught the full force of that bright smile and thought his heart was going to stop beating right then. He wanted that smile all to himself. Where did that come from you old fool. He's smiling because he thought you were going to put him on report and he's just relieved. Then Tom winked at him like a co-conspirator and handed him a piece of tape. "Commander if they capture you, you can't talk. I don't care how you're tortured. This goes to the grave. Promise?" "Yes Lt. I promise" Chakotay was trying to keep a straight face as Tom handed him the piece of tape. Tom's own face was as serious as Chakotay had ever seen it. How the hell does he do that? How can you ever know what someone is feeling and thinking if they could control their expressions so well? You ask was the answer he gave himself. --- "Commander Chakotay to Lt. Paris" "Yes Commander" "Are you busy in an hour Lt.? I have something I'd like to talk to you about." Chakotay held his breath as he waited for the Lt. to respond. Chakotay, what do you really want out of this. Are you trying to help a friend out of depression, or are you going to hit on him? He had to admit that didn't know. "No Commander, I'm done in sickbay for the day. Do you want me to come by your quarters?" "No Tom, meet me outside of holodeck one, It's my night. I have it for three hours. " "Okay Chakotay, see your there. What should I wear?" Chakotay couldn't believe his ears, not only was Tom coming, but he had actually called him by name instead of rank. Maybe this will end up being a good idea. "Wear shorts and a T-shirt Tom, I think you'll like this." --- When they met outside of holodeck one an hour later, Chakotay wasn't so sure of his plan anymore. When he saw Tom in his short running shorts and tank top T- shirt, he realized he wasn't just helping a depressed friend. He looked at the long slim legs with the dusting of light hair on them. Impossibly long legs thought the commander. While he was almost as tall as Tom, his legs were a good two inches shorter. He suddenly felt like an oaf next to the graceful young man. "So Chakotay, what's going on? Where are we going?" "Tom, when you were talking about limited holodeck time yesterday, you gave me an idea. If we shared our holodeck time, we would have twice as much as if we used ours alone. Think of today as a trial run. You won't be obligated to share your next turn with me. What do you think?" Tom looked at the man standing next to him and tried to figure out what he wanted. While the plan sounded good, Tom was used to using his holodeck time to get away from people, not to share with others. Then he thought about how much of his off duty time had been spent alone lately and wondered if he really wanted his holodeck time to himself also. "Chakotay, I think that's a great idea." He finally answered. "So what are we going to do? Your time, your choice." "We're going river rafting. I have a great program that I've had since the Academy. A good friend wrote it for me and we used to go together. It's the Arkansas river through the Rocky Mountains in Colorado in the spring. There's lots of canyons and a hiking subroutine. I have about five different rivers programmed, but this is my favorite. Have you ever been whitewater rafting before Tom?" "No I can't say that I have, It sounds fun though. Just remember to keep the safeties on, I don't feel like drowning today." Chakotay couldn't help but laugh at Tom as he finished setting up the program. "Of course I'll keep the safeties on, and we'll only run it at class two's and three's for now. If you like it, we'll take it up to another level. I also have a kayaking subroutine, but we'll wait until you can handle a paddle boat first." "Lead on Chakotay" --- Tom mashed his pillow down for the countless time since he had gone to bed an hour earlier. I can't fucking sleep, usually I have no problem falling asleep, just staying that way. Well, Tom look at the bright side, you can't have nightmares if you can't fall asleep. What exactly had happened today? After his depressing show last night, Tom didn't think the Commander, no not Commander---- Chakotay, would want to be near anyone as depressing as himself. First that little scene on the bridge and then the holodeck. He and Chakotay had spent the entire three hours rafting the river, totally lost in time. They weren't on Voyager, they were back on Earth taming a river. It was exhilarating and he couldn't believe he'd never been white water rafting before. The new sport made it to the top of Tom's list of personal favorites. He couldn't remember the last time he had felt so comfortable with another person besides Harry. Even with B'Elanna, he wasn't that comfortable. Happy yes, comfortable no. He was always afraid he would do or say the wrong thing. He still felt that way with Chakotay, but he knew Chakotay wouldn't throw things at him or refuse to speak to him for days just because he sometimes had problems controlling his sarcasm. When that happened with Chakotay, the Commander would just give him a funny look like he was trying to figure Tom out. Why was he thinking about this so much? It was just a shared time on the holodeck, not a date. Not a date? Where the hell did that come from? Of course it wasn't a date, just two guys hanging out together. Then why can't you sleep Tom? Maybe this shared holodeck time isn't such a good idea after all. He felt the way he did after his first date with Susie Crabtree. Only this time he knew the person he shared his evening with didn't feel the same way. The question is Tommy, Do you want to repeat the experience? Chakotay was having a hard time falling asleep himself. When did his feelings towards Tom Paris change? Last week, last month, tonight? After meditating to help himself find sleep, he realized that his feelings hadn't changed overnight, they had evolved over four and a half years. He hoped Tom would never find out how he felt. He didn't want to lose the man's friendship now after all they had been through. The man was still infuriating sometimes, but he realized he had begun to enjoy the teasing over the years. He no longer thought Tom was doing it because he didn't like the commander, but because he did like him. It was just Tom's way. And I like it. --- The next few days passed very much like the past two months, nothing exciting during his shift, nothing to do when he finished, dinner in the mess hall and then on to Sandrine's. Except for one difference, Chakotay went to the bar every night. He and Tom would play pool for hours, beating all challengers and keeping the table all night. Some crew members were shocked to find the easy camaraderie between the two men. Captain Janeway was not surprised at all when she saw the way they interacted. She just wondered how soon it would be before they realized what was happening. Both men came over and joined her at her table, pleading tiredness to get out of another round of pool. "Captain, It's nice to see you here. You've been hiding yourself away the past few weeks. Chakotay and I have been playing for the past four hours. I'm exhausted. Chakotay, tomorrow, holodeck two 2100 hours, dress warm." Tom left the two of them with a wave and walked out the door. "Chakotay, I've missed a few things in the past week. When did you and Tom become so close?" "What do you mean Captain?" Chakotay was trying to decided if the Captain knew how he felt about the young pilot before continuing. "Tom and I have become friends over the years. We've just been spending more time together lately." "Come on Chakotay, I'm not naive. I know that look in your eye. It was once directed at me remember?" Chakotay did remember, and having the Captain bring up the past again did not hurt the way he thought it would. "Yes, Kathryn, I remember. Are you saying I'm looking at Tom like that now? To be honest, I don't know how I feel about him. All I know is that I'm enjoying our time together too much to tell him how I'm starting to feel. I'd rather keep him as my friend. We're just getting to really know each other. Where has this Tom Paris that I've been seeing been lately been hiding these past four years?" "In plain sight Chakotay, you just didn't see him. I hope you both get what you want." --- After three weeks of shared holodeck time and nights at Sandrine's, Chakotay was almost sure Tom returned his feelings. How to find out though? This uncertainty was making him miserable. Chakotay knew he wasn't a masochistic person, but he had been torturing himself about Tom for weeks. Tonight he'd say something, he vowed. He was too old to play any kind of game. Denying his real feelings was a game just as any other. Getting Tom to spend time with him under false pretenses was just going to hurt both of them in the long run. Tonight was Tom's official holodeck time and Chakotay wondered what they would be doing tonight. So far they had gone rafting three times finally switching to kayaks the last time. They had gone snow skiing twice, water-skiing once, hiking the Pacific Crest trail, and rock climbing in the desert. At least I'm in the best shape I've been in years, and I'm much better at pool than I've ever been. He walked into the holodeck and was pleasantly surprised by what he saw. Tom had programmed a full carnival. He walked onto the midway looking for Tom in the crowd of families. Tom was playing a game where he had to throw rings over some pegs and talking with a holographic character. He walked up to Tom in the crowd and Tom met his eyes with that heart wrenching full smile of his. "I used to want to run away and join the carnival when I was a kid. It's so alive. Everybody's having fun and forgetting about real life. I used to wish I could be part of it forever. Chakotay, do you like it?" Tom shyly asked him . He had taken a chance showing Chakotay this program, he didn't want to be thought of as a kid, but he did want to share this place with his friend. "Of course I made the games a little more fair to play. In the real carnival, you don't win much." When he saw the Commander's look, he continued, "Of course I didn't make them too easy, that's half the fun Chak." "Tom, I love it. Are there any rides?" "Yeah, come on let's go, there's one over here that makes me puke every time I ride it. I love it!!!" "Tom, can we skip the puke ride please?" "Oh, you're no fun Chakotay. OK let's go on the rollercoaster. I programmed it to be made of wood just like the original one . It's a great ride." --- After three hours of riding rides and eating holographic carnival food, Chakotay thought he was the one that was going to lose his holographic dinner, but he held it in and followed Tom from ride to ride. One of the details Tom put in was that there would be no line when they got to a ride. Chakotay knew he had to talk to Tom before the night was over. He couldn't take this much longer. Just seeing Tom having some much fun and utterly relaxed made the Commander want to pull him into his arms and kiss him. He was afraid he was going to do exactly that. He had to talk to Tom tonight. "Tom, let's go sit on a bench, I want to talk to you." "Sure Chak, aren't you having fun, you look awfully serious." As Chakotay watched, Tom schooled his face into a blank slate. "Tom, I don't think our experiment of shared holodeck time is working." Of course he said exactly the wrong thing he realized when he saw Tom's back stiffen and the younger man put a little distance between them on the bench. "Tom I didn't mean it like that." He took Tom's chin into his hand and gently forced the pilot to look at him. "Tom, I'm afraid that If we keep doing this, I am going to do this. He pulled Tom in close and gently brushed the younger man's lips with his own. A soft, sweet, chaste closed mouth kiss, or that was what he intended to do. When he found Tom kissing him back, opening his lips with his tongue, putting his arms around the older man, Chakotay found himself too stunned to respond. Tom stopped and pulled just away. Chakotay could feel the air leave Tom's lips and fan over his own as the he spoke. "Chak, I've wanted to do that for weeks. I just didn't know if I could kiss a man like that." Something in Tom's voice made Chakotay look the younger man in the eye. When Chakotay spoke to the man still in his arms, he spoke as softly as he would to a spooked horse. "Why not Tom?" "Chakotay, " Tom said pulling away from the older man and wrapping his arms around himself. "the only experiences I've had with other men were in prison. Don't look at me like that Chakotay, I wasn't raped, but I learned that I could use my body to get what I wanted. It made me feel like such a piece of shit. I was a whore and I knew it. Have you ever hated yourself Chak? No, I guess you haven't. I hated myself for a long time after that. Actually, I'm just starting to like myself again. Do you understand what I'm saying?" Tom was sitting on the far side of the bench with his arms drawn around his pulled up knees, playing with his shoelaces. How can a thirty year old man look so much like a lost little boy? Chakotay moved to be closer to Tom and started speaking to him in soft tones again, "Tom, you did what you had to survive. You're a different person now Tom, it doesn't matter anymore." "Chakotay, that's just it, I didn't have to do it. It's not like they were going to kill me. I did it so my life would be easier. Guards, trustees, hell I even sucked off the vice-warden to get moved to a nicer cell block. At the time I didn't care. I was going to be stuck there for ten years, what did it matter. I was still having nightmares from the crash, and I still hurt from being thrown out of my family. I just didn't care what I did. Now I'm ashamed. So ashamed I don't know if I can ever be with another man again. The thing is Chak, I really like you. I enjoy our time together, and I'm attracted to you. I just don't think you want what I really am. So, I haven't told you what I really am. Now that you know, do you still want to be my friend?" "Tom, I want to be more than your friend. I want to be your confidant, I want to be your lover, I want to wake up in the mornings with you and I want your beautiful face to be the last thing I see when I fall asleep at night. I want to talk to you over dinner, I want to watch your silly twentieth century vids with you. I'll even put up with your horrible taste in music. Maybe I'm being selfish, I'm just happier when you're around then when you're not." The Commander looked down at the blond head on his shoulder and thought about the man he held in his arms. He couldn't believe how things were turning out. "Chak, I'm afraid that when you get sick of me, I'll hurt worse than I do now. I don't want to go through that again." Sick of him? This man needs counseling, how could he automatically assume that I'm going to get sick of him? He still doesn't like himself very much. It seemed to never occur to Tom that he would be the one to end a relationship and leave the other person hurting. "Tom, let's deal with that if it happens, I'm afraid you're going to get sick of this old man and dump me. You have to talk to me when your feeling insecure though, Tom. Especially since you're so good at hiding what's really going on inside that head of yours." "Great, I go from a woman who's idea of working things out is to throw things at each other and then fuck like wild animals, to falling for a touchy feely, lets talk about our feelings man. Hey Chak?" Tom had turned his face up to look the man who was holding him. He had that patented Tom Paris 'I'm going to say something funny' look on his face. "Yeah Tom?" "Did I ever tell you I have a very old and rare disease that's been stamped out of mankind except for the last few of us holdouts who love the masochism of our affliction?" "And what would that be, Tom" "Well, look at my behavior patterns... I am a closet manic depressive who refuses his medicine.... " Chakotay had no clue what Tom was talking about. He was really going to have to watch old vids with him to figure out what he meant half the time. So he just laughed and went along with the joke he didn't get. He made a mental note to ask the doctor what manic depressive was and if there really was a medicine Tom should be taking. "Hey Tom?" "Yeah, I have Gamma shift tonight I have to be on the bridge in half an hour. You have Alpha Shift in sickbay tomorrow and I have beta on the bridge, so I won't see you again until the day after, dinner in my quarters, then?" "Yeah Chak, but I really want to take things slow, is that Okay with you?" This time when Tom looked at him, he let Chakotay see the worry in his eyes. "Yeah, Poocuh it's OK with me. As slow as you want." --- It had been a quiet day on the alpha shift for the bridge crew of Voyager, and with only fifteen minutes of his work day remaining, Ensign Harry Kim was at his Ops station thinking about what he was going to do for the next two days. He had been bored for the past few months as Voyager traveled through a section of the Delta quadrant that was devoid of planets and stars. No one on board had ever seen anything like it with the exception of Seven. It was a safe section of space but everyone was starting to go a little stir crazy. There had been no planets for months and it looked like it could be another month before they passed through this emptiness. He couldn't believe that he finally had two days off in a row. It only happened once every six weeks in the current duty rotation. He was daydreaming about sleeping in the following morning and about which holodeck program he would run first, when a readout on his Ops panel barely caught his attention. "Commander", he addressed Chakotay in the Captain's chair, "I'm picking up some type of small ship on long range scans. We're too far away for details but it seems to be adrift." "Are you picking up any lifesigns?" Commander Chakotay asked. "No, we're too far away for details yet." "On our present course how close will we come to the vessel?" "We'll pass within one light year, Commander." "Okay Harry, tell your relief to keep an eye on it and when we are close enough to get more conclusive readings to let me know. Oh, and Harry, have a nice 'weekend'." "Th... th... thanks Commander", Harry barely stammered out as he passed over his duties to his replacement. --- When Harry entered the mess hall at 18:30 he saw Lt. Tom Paris sitting by himself. He waved to his friend and grabbed a tray. He quickly made his way through the serving line and sat down next to him. "Tom, you are not going to believe this. You know I have the next two days off, right?" When Tom nodded in response Harry continued, "When my bridge shift ended Commander Chakotay told me to have a nice 'Weekend'!! What have you done to him, Tom?" Harry asked with a laugh. "Harry, I have no idea what you're talking about," Tom denied as he gave Harry the most innocent looking smile in his collection. "Come on Tom, this is me, Harry here. I know all about you two 'seeing' each other over the past couple of weeks, and I know you had a date last night. The Commander was acting less uptight on the bridge today. I'm not stupid Tom , I can put two and two together." "Yeah, Harry, and you came up with five." Tom gave his crooked little smile and continued. "Harry, you've known me long enough now to know that I don't kiss and tell." "Aha, so you at least kissed!" Harry was beaming at this point and Tom wanted to take some of the wind out of his sails. "Harry, come on, you know it's just an old expression." "Not where you're concerned Paris." Harry retorted. "Well, anyway, I don't care what happened. I just think it's about time you two realized that you're perfect for each other." "What are you talking about, Harry? What makes you think we're perfect for each other? I thought you said four months ago when B'Elanna and I stopped seeing each other that I was making a big mistake. What changed your mind?" "Well, at first I couldn't believe it when you and B'Elanna called it off. After almost two years of dancing around each other, and then finally getting together, I thought you would end up married. Then after seeing how you and the Commander have changed in the past month, I couldn't believe how no one ever suspected that you two compliment each other so well." "Harry, we've been over this too many times. How many times do I have to tell you that B'Elanna and I still love each other..." "Yeah, Tom I know. Like brother and sister." "And what makes you think Chakotay and I compliment each other? I think we're exact opposites. That's part of what makes this whole thing so much fun." "Tom, you and Chakotay are not complete opposites, you're alike in a lot of ways. But you also compliment each other. You relax him and he grounds you." "Grounds me, Harry? He's not old enough to be my father." Tom said with a slight smirk, "But I'll tell him you think so." "You always do have to make a joke, don't you." "Hey Harry, do me and Chak a favor, and keep this little revelation to yourself OK? I'd like to keep things quiet for awhile. You know how it is when something is new don't you? Hey Har, I can't eat this stuff. Let's go to my quarters and replicate something." --- When Tom arrived at the staff meeting the following morning he could feel the tension in the air. "What did I miss while I was stuck in sickbay yesterday Commander?" He asked as he sat down between Chakotay and B'Elanna. Captain Janeway walked in just as he finished his question and before Chakotay could answer, she started speaking. "Good morning everyone. Well, after five months in a very dull section of the Delta quadrant, I think we might have a little diversion to keep us busy. Yesterday at the end of Alpha Shift Harry picked up a small ship on long range scans. Until this morning we were too far away to learn anything conclusive, but the ship appears to be from the Alpha quadrant." Open mouths and sharp intakes of air were the only response as Captain Janeway grinned at her senior staff. "I know, we've had many disappointments over the past four and a half years but since we will be passing this ship within a light year on our present course and since we are all a little bored, we will investigate. Commander Tuvok, what have we learned so far?" "As the Captain has already stated the ship does appear to be from the Alpha quadrant. But, there are no life signs aboard, and none of the ship's systems are functioning. There is no sign of a distress signal. The ship is ancient. Our estimation from long range scans indicate that it is a twenty third century ship. In summation, nothing we have learned so far would indicate that it may help us shorten our journey but it should prove interesting to investigate." "Is it still in one piece?" Tom asked. The Vulcan security chief turned to Tom as he answered, "We have found no indication of a hull breach. It appears as if the ship lost power years ago and has continued on its course under Newton's law." "A body in motion tends to stay in motion, until acted on by outside forces." B'Elanna joined in. "But how could it have avoided obstacles for so many years? You can't just travel in a straight line for a hundred years and not hit something. Just because we can't read any life signs doesn't mean there isn't someone or something onboard that ship." The Captain turned to answer B'Elanna, "That's why we are going to send a shuttle over to investigate. From all outward appearances it seems perfectly benign. But," Captain Janeway laughed as she continued, "we have learned not to take things at face value in the Delta Quadrant. We'll take Voyager out of weapons range plus some maneuvering room from a ship that size. An away team will head over in a shuttle and then transport onto the ship if everything is as it seems. Commander, as much as I would like to go, you will be leading the away team and I would like you to choose two people to take along." All eyes in the room immediately went to the Commander. B'Elanna was thinking about how bored she had been for the past month. Her engineering staff had taken apart and refit the warp core too many times since they entered this part of space out of sheer boredom alone. Voyager was in the best shape it had been in two years and she could not come up with busy work fast enough to keep her crew busy let alone herself. This could be an interesting diversion. She tried to catch the commander's eye to give him a silent plea. Commander Chakotay looked around the table and couldn't suppress a smile as three sets of puppy dog eyes were staring at him. Only Tuvok looked unaffected. Neelix, Tom and B'Elanna were all trying to silently convince him to choose them. "B'Elanna, I would like you to come along, and Captain, I would like to assign Ensign Kim to the away team. I know he has the day off tomorrow, but, he is the one who found the ship. Besides, It would be nice to have an Ops officer and an engineer to see if we can't get that ship working again." As Commander Chakotay turned away from the Captain and faced the rest of the senior staff, Neelix looked disappointed, Tuvok was wearing his normal expression, and he couldn't tell if Tom looked hurt, angry, or both. "Uh Oh" The Commander said to himself. "Very well Commander. Dismissed everyone. Chakotay, you have the bridge. I'll be in my ready room." --- It was a tense morning on the bridge, thought ensign Davis as he worked Harry's Ops console. He hardly ever worked the Alpha shift but always enjoyed it when he did. Usually Lt. Paris livened things up and even the Captain responded to his little jokes. The normal camaraderie was not present today. He almost always looked forward to his brief stints with the senior staff, but today he wished he hadn't been scheduled. "Commander, hold the lift," Tom called out just as the doors were about to close on Chakotay. As he stepped in and the door slid shut behind him Chakotay ordered, "Deck two" "Computer halt turbolift." Tom snapped. "OK Chakotay, what was that all about?!" "What are you talking about Tom?", Chakotay asked, his voice even. He had been expecting this confrontation from Tom, just not quite so soon. "Cut the shit Chakotay. If seeing you means I get left out on away missions, maybe we should just go our separate ways now before we get in too deep. There is no way I am letting you control me like that. God Dammit! This isn't even a dangerous mission. It's a goddamn walk in the park and your cutting me out." "Are you done Lt.? From the look on your face, your not, but just close your mouth and listen to me. I am not 'cutting you out'. You are not needed on this mission. I chose the people who have the expertise to do the job. Only three people are going to fit onto that ship. There is already a pilot assigned to the away team. Harry and B'Elanna are the best people for the job. Period. And, if seeing you means you are going to get upset every time you do not get assigned to an away team, maybe you're right, we should stop now before we get in too deep. This is one of the reasons for the Starfleet fraternization policy. I am your commanding officer. On duty, that is who I am. Can you handle that Lieutenant? Tom Paris, speechless, I don't believe it. This little argument was almost worth it." "Chakotay, look, I'm sorry if I jumped to the wrong conclusions. I just thought you were being overprotective. I've never dated a commanding officer before, Chak. It takes some getting used to." "Computer resume turbolift. Tom are you sure this is what you want. It's going to be difficult to separate our personal lives from our professional ones. I'm willing to make the effort if you are. I can see our relationship progressing to more than what we have now. It's not hard for me to imagine a future together. If someone had told me that even six months ago, I would have thought they were insane. The past few weeks we've spent together have been incredible. Can we work through our 'work' difficulties?" "Chak, the old Tom Paris would have just walked away from you after that briefing and not confronted you about this. He would have just stewed about it, made his decision without talking to you about it and assumed the worst. I am making the effort. I'm sorry I jumped to the wrong conclusion. But, do me a favor, when you pick away teams, make sure you don't 'accidentally' overlook me, even for the dangerous ones. I know it might be hard for you, but its part of the package. Okay Chak?" "Deal. Tom, did we just pass some kind of test here?" "I don't know Chak. Do you still want me to come to dinner tonight?" "Only if we're going to make up. Isn't that what you do after a fight." The commander was grinning at Tom like the Cheshire cat and slowly moving towards the Lt. "Have I told you yet today how beautiful you are?" he asked as he looked Tom up and down. "Not since yesterday big guy. Remember, I was almost late for the briefing this morning. So I haven't seen you since the holodeck." "As a matter of fact I do remember your being late now. Meet me in my quarters at 2100 hours Lt. For 'extra' duties." "You're changing the subject. You look like a tiger about to pounce, and I do like that look, but let's not start something we can't finish. I'm going to skip lunch and go talk to Harry. See you tonight?" "See you tonight, Tom." Chakotay purred back as he stepped of the turbolift. As Tom waited for the lift to resume he felt a shiver run up and down his spine and said to himself, "Definitely see you tonight." Commander Tuvok noticed the change in the mood on the bridge when the crew returned from their lunch breaks. He made a mental note of the change in bridge dynamics and told himself he would need to speak to the captain about it. He was sure it had something to do with the looks Lt. Paris and Commander Chakotay kept giving one another. There was an undercurrent he couldn't quite figure out. It would make sense to keep an eye on any interpersonal difficulties that would interfere with bridge efficiency. --- At exactly 2100 hours, Tom stood outside Chakotay's door and rang the chime. Chakotay answered the door himself rather than just shouting enter. He looked Tom up and down before letting him in. "Very nice Lt." he said as he took in Tom's dark maroon shirt and loose fitting faded button down jeans. "You look pretty nice yourself Chakotay. I knew you would look good in earth tones. They're just so you." Chakotay was wearing a forest green pullover sweater and dark brown soft cotton pants. Tom noticed Chakotay's bare feet next, "I didn't know you like to run around barefoot Chak." "Come on Tom, take your shoes off, it feels good to be barefoot, even on a starship." "Okay, you're just lucky I don't have a problem with foot odor." "Tom, that's not a very romantic image." "Oh, is this dinner just a setup to seduce me Chak?" "Well, the last time we saw each other wasn't very romantic, it was fun, but I want tonight to be special. Pour yourself some wine and I'll put dinner on the table." "What are we having for dinner, it smells good." "We're going to start of with gazpacho and then we're going to have king salmon over wild rice and asparagus and for desert we are having berries and cream. Does that sound good to you?" "Can't you hear my stomach from there, I skipped lunch, remember?" "Good, let's eat. Everything's ready." After dinner Tom stood up from the table and stretched, with Chakotay watching every move. "What are you thinking about Chief" Tom asked when he saw Chakotay's expression. "Tom, I was just thinking how gorgeous you are. When you were stretching you reminded me of a cat I had as a child." Tom moved to the couch and brought the bottle of wine. Chakotay sat next to him and held out his glass. Tom refilled both of their glasses, put his feet onto Chakotay's lap and reclined back on the arm of the couch. "Chak, you sure do know how to play host, nice dinner, nice conversation, and unsolicited compliments. What did I ever do to deserve this?" "I' m just making up for lost time Tom. I can't believe how long it took me to see you, the real you, not the Tom Paris you show the world. You would think the first officer would be better at reading his junior officers." Chakotay put his glass down and started to gently massage Tom's feet. "We all have masks Chak, it took me a long time to see past that stoic Indian routine of yours, remember? When I used to look at you, all I saw was disapproval, even when you had nothing but neutrality on your face. When I thought I saw you looking at me like you hated me, it was really me hating me. That's part of the reason I had my shields up so high around you. Remember how I used to try to push all of your buttons?" "Tom, what exactly do you mean by used to?" Chakotay was laughing as spoke and moved his massage up to Tom's calves. "Oh, come on Chak, I'm the one who is being serious for once. Is that hard for you to accept?" "No Tom, its not. I like the serious side of you. Tom, will you promise me something?" "What, I can't promise until I know what I'm promising." "Whenever you feel that self-doubt creep in, or any insecurities about us, come talk to me. I'll tell you about the person that I see." "What will you tell me Chak?" Chakotay leaned forward, took the glass out of Tom's hand, grasped his shoulders and pulled him face to face. He looked into deep into Tom's eyes thinking that he could get lost in their blue depths. He wanted to this man to know the truth behind his words, "I see a beautiful soul, who wants to love and be loved, but who is afraid of being hurt. I see a man with honor, compassion, and integrity. I see a boy who has become a man over the past four years. I see a man finding his place in the world, and I see you, Thomas Eugene Paris." "Chakotay" "Yeah" "Kiss me before I embarrass myself." Chakotay pulled Tom into his arms and kissed him softly on the lips. He kissed him on each eyelid and on his forehead before he pulled him back in and kissed him on the mouth again. Such sweet soft lips. Tom parted his lips and let Chakotay explore his mouth with his tongue. The kiss became more intense and Tom began kissing back in earnest. So passionate, so yielding, yet not submissive. Chakotay opened his eyes only to see Tom staring back at him. Tom pulled away and barely whispered, "You are the beautiful one, strong, compassionate, forgiving. Harry was right you know, you ground me . I feel like I can be me when I'm with you. Chakotay, let's go into the bedroom. I know I said I wanted to take it slow, but I'm ready. Are you?" They practically carried each other into the bedroom, and still didn't make it past the doorway. Tom wrapped his arms around the commander and cradled his ass in his hands pulling Chakotay in for a kiss. There was no chaste kissing this time, it was a powerful kiss signaling need and lust. Chakotay felt Tom's erection rock hard against his own through the thin fabric of his cotton trousers. Tom was still holding onto his cheeks pulling him against him as if he were trying to merge them into one. Chakotay pulled Tom's shirt out of his jeans, he didn't care if he ripped the shirt, he had to touch that flawless pale skin now. He had been dreaming of touching that naked back since the first time he saw it. He felt Tom's muscles bunching and shifting under his fingertips. He pulled himself away from the kiss long enough to strip off both their shirts. Tom had managed to get his hands into the drawstring waist of Chakotay's pants and was now caressing him through his briefs. He had to pull back, slow down, he wanted their first time to be beautiful. This was lust, need, animalistic. He slowly pulled himself away from Tom and gently maneuvered the younger man onto the bed. He could see Tom's naked chest rising and falling in the starlight making his skin seem translucent in the darkened room. He bent over his lover and kissed him softly on the lips and then moved to nuzzle his neck as he undid the buttons on Tom's jeans one by one. He could feel the heat radiating off of Tom as he undressed him. He had to remind himself to breath as he slid Tom's jeans over slim hips. He could see his young lover's hardened cock pointing upward and held against his body by his briefs. He bent over and licked him through his underwear and was almost bucked of the bed. He started to trail kisses up the flat plane of Tom's stomach until he got to Tom's nipples, little buds jutting out of his lightly furred chest. The whole time he was worshipping the pale body beneath his own, his lover was writhing and moaning. Good, I like my lovers to let me know I'm giving them pleasure was his last coherent thought before Tom couldn't be passive any longer. He flipped Chakotay onto his back with a feral sound between a growl and a groan and began the same ministrations his lover had just begun, only this time in reverse. Tom was gently nipping and biting Chakotay's neck while he lay on top of the bigger man grinding their groins together. Chakotay was the one voicing his pleasure now. Tom began to kiss down the Commander's beautifully sculpted torso, nipping, licking, sucking until the man was writhing beneath him in sweet, sweet agony. Tom stuck his tongue into the older man's navel as he slid off the cotton trousers. Chakotay was barely coherent enough to understand to lift his hips, but as soon as Tom feathered Chak's erection through his briefs with his fingertips, Chakotay lost all control. He took the initiative again, pulling his young lover up to his chest cradling him still grinding pelvis to pelvis, shaft to shaft. He rolled over with Tom in his arms and held him down with his own body. He reached down and pulled the younger man's briefs off with one hand and continued to hold his lover against him. Once again he met those sweet yielding lips with his own. They were bruising each others lips and savaging each other's mouths when Chakotay reached down to grasp Tom's hardened flesh. He stroked him softly and then began to trail kisses down Tom's body once more, not stopping until he had Tom's shaft in his mouth. He licked the tip, tasting the salty precum already there. He knew how close his lover was to release so reluctantly left the tantalizing shaft to nuzzle wrinkled balls. He first took one and then the other, then both into his mouth rolling them with his tongue. He held onto Tom's hips so he wouldn't be bucked across the room and took the full hardened length deep into his throat. Tom was screaming with need and Chakotay could hear a choked out shout of "Chak" in-between the unintelligible moaning. He could deny Tom's release no longer. He was licking the tip of Tom's cock, then swallowing him whole, licking, sucking, swallowing until he heard the beginnings of a scream and took him deep inside his mouth again sucking as hard as he could. He felt Tom pulse into his mouth as the scream from his lover rose higher and higher. He sucked in all Tom had to give, swallowing his lover's life as Tom shuddered and was still. Chakotay laid himself alongside Tom and kissed him full on the mouth mixing his own saliva with the taste of Tom in his mouth. Tom felt like a limp ragdoll as he held the pilot in his arms. When the army of bees buzzing in Tom's ears were silent enough for him to recognize anything but his own pleasure, he captured Chakotay's mouth in his own. He looked into the brown eyes of his lover and said "Chakotay, I want you to fuck me. I want you pumping into me until we both scream so loud they can hear us on the bridge. Will you do that for me?" "Tom, are you sure your ready?" "Chak, I want you now." "I don't have any lubricant, let me go replicate some." Chakotay was starting to rise off the bed and Tom pulled him back down, growling, "I said now, not in five minutes." "Tom, I don't want to hurt you." "Chakotay, you couldn't hurt me if you tried." Tom began kissing the length of the bigger man's torso once more. He wrapped his lips around his lovers swollen, weeping cock leaving as much saliva as he could on his lover's body. Chakotay was having trouble holding back and Tom felt his lovers need for release. He rolled over pulling Chakotay with him, raised his legs, and draped his ankles over the kneeling commander's shoulders, positioning his opening in front of the commanders engorged erection. As all coherent thought left the bigger man's mind, he grabbed Tom's slim hips and pulled him closer. Tom was bracing himself with his arms and as soon as the Commander began his slow entry, Tom began pushing himself against his lover. Chakotay lost all intentions of being gentle with that one move from the younger man, and buried himself to the hilt. Tom threw his head back and screamed Chakotay's name, exposing his throat to the older man. Chak was using his hands on Tom's hips to pull the younger man closer, then pushing him away, sliding himself in and out of the beautiful man giving himself so completely. Tom was rock hard again and the sight of his lovers obvious arousal only made Chak loose control over and over again. He was screaming "Tom, oh Tom" and Tom was screaming his name like a mantra. Chakotay, felt the familiar sensation, balls tightening, room fading away, only the connection between two bodies remaining. He thrust once, twice, and erupted into his lovers body screaming louder than he had ever in his life. With the last two hard thrusts and his scream, Tom came all over both of them. Chakotay collapsed onto his lover's sticky chest, head buried in the young man's neck, trying to remember how to breath and not hyperventilate. He stayed there attempting to reconnect his mind and body, for how long he didn't know. He could feel both their hearts racing as if one, Tom not moving under him. Finally, Tom whispered to his lover, "You know, I didn't really want them to hear us on the bridge." They dozed off for a time, until Tom again whispered into his ear, "I could sleep all night with you laying on top of me Chak, but we're going to end up stuck together if we don't move soon. I'm going to go clean up. You stay here and sleep some more." When Tom went into the bathroom and raised the lighting, he saw dark bruises forming on his hips. He smiled at himself in the mirror and stepped into the warm spray of the shower. When he saw the water darkened by blood, he winced and began to wash himself. He felt the familiar soreness and hoped Chakotay didn't feel guilty when he realized he had drawn blood. He knew his lover would not understand his enjoyment of rough sex and he didn't feel like having a counseling session with the empathetic Indian tonight. He dried himself off and made sure his soreness didn't show when he walked back into the bedroom. He felt Chak's eyes on him as he climbed back into bed and said, "Your turn, I'll throw these sheets in the 'fresher while you're in the shower." "Tom, don't leave while I'm in the shower stay here tonight, please?" "OK, but I can't promise I'll be awake when you get out." When Chakotay climbed into bed beside Tom, the younger man was indeed asleep. Chakotay was thinking about what they had done. It was incredible how their lovemaking had left him feeling, but he promised himself he wouldn't let Tom steer them into violence again. He had seen Tom's blood running off of his own body while he was in the shower. They needed to talk, but it could wait until morning. --- Chakotay woke at 0600 to find Tom curled up on his stomach next to him, and an arm thrown over his chest. Tom was still asleep and had a little smile in the corner of his mouth. When Chakotay began to move, Tom opened his eyes and smiled so brightly at the Commander, Chakotay began to doubt that there was anything wrong. Well, he enjoys rough sex, not much wrong with that as long as things didn't get out of hand. When Tom got out of bed to go into the bathroom, Chakotay winced when he saw the bruises on Tom's hips. Tom climbed back into bed beside his lover and knew there was a problem immediately. "What's 'amatter Chak? Didn't you have fun last night?" "From looking at you, I had too much fun. I'm sorry I hurt you. Do you want to go to sickbay?" "Sickbay? What are you talking about, Chakotay?" "Tom, you have bruises all over you and I had blood on me when I took a shower last night. Your blood." While Chakotay was talking, Tom had pulled his hands to his hips and put them over the bruises, lining each finger up with its ghost from the night before. "You mean these?" Tom asked. "Now I have your hands on me all the time, I like them. As for the blood, I'm sorry. There wasn't much and it didn't hurt. I'll let you use lube next time if you're worried about hurting me. Are you sorry about what we did last night?" When Tom asked his last question, his face was carefully blank. Chakotay was learning each of Tom's blank looks and knew exactly what to say. "Of course I'm not sorry Tom. It was incredible, I almost passed out." Tom beamed at him and said, "Ah, Chakotay, you did pass out, and you're heavy. I was starting to not be able to breath after awhile with you passed out on top of me. Come on, let's have breakfast. I have be on the bridge in an hour, and you've got an away mission." "Tom, you're not a morning person. You never seem to get out of bed until right before your shift begins." "That's because I've never woken up in bed with you before, let's just say I like the company." Tom kissed him and got out of bed, not bothering with a robe and got them breakfast from the replicator. He brought their breakfast to bed, and climbed back in. "So, Chak, what do you think you're going to find on that ship?" "It's probably just space junk, but it will give us something to keep us occupied for awhile." --- "Commander, are you in visual range of the vessel yet?" "Yes, Captain. Visual contact now. The ship is definitely federation design, and it looks old. Are you scanning it Captain. The hull says its the USS Darius. NC12034-1." "Yes, we're still not reading any life signs. When are you beaming over?" "As soon as we suit up in our EVAC suits. We'll be in audio contact at all times once we beam over Captain. Chakotay out." "I wonder how that ship got here?" the Captain asked no one in particular. "Chakotay to Voyager" "Voyager here Commander" "We're heading over now Captain." "Understood, Voyager out." "Captain, we seem to be in the main section of the ship. It's about the size of a runabout. B'Elanna, what can you tell about the ship's systems?" "Everything's dead Chakotay, total power drain. Other than that, everything looks fine. Though, I do have to say I'm no expert on ancient machinery. But, a warp core is a warp core." "I'm going to check the crew quarters, I'll report from there. Harry, you're with me." "Captain, we just found two bodies in the crew quarters." "Human, Chakotay?" "Yes Captain. Two men. Neither one of them is wearing a uniform or rank insignia. Captain, we're headed back to the main cabin and see what we need to do to get this ship operational. Chakotay out." "B'Elanna?" the Captain asked "Here Captain, I'm in engineering, I heard what Chakotay said, the only way to get this old girl going again is transfer power from Voyager. She doesn't need much dilithium to run so I'm pretty sure we have the spare to get her going again. I don't want to try until we go through every system. She's been out here a long time." "B'Elanna, can you get any information out of their computer?" "Not without power Captain" "Understood. Cmndr., do you think it will hold up to a tractor beam?" "Yes Captain, I do. Are you bringing Voyager in?" "Expect us in fifteen minutes, Janeway out." "Chakotay to Voyager" "Voyager here Commander, is there a problem?" "Captain, could you have the doctor come up to the bridge? I'm sending you a visual. There is something disturbing about these bodies. I 'd like his opinion." "I'm here Commander, I don't know how much help a visual of two corpses will be, but send it through." "Doctor, do you notice anything strange about the corpses?" "Well, they are perfectly preserved. That is to be expected in the vacuum of space though Commander." "Doctor, we are not in the vacuum of space. The hull integrity was not compromised. Take a closer look Doctor." Chakotay lifted the arm of the smaller corpse and bent it at the elbow. Then he lifted a leg and bent it at the knee. "Very strange, no rigor mortis. Beam the two bodies directly to sickbay, I will autopsy them. Give me time to set up a containment field first." "Doctor?" asked the Captain, "could they be in suspended animation from the cold?" "That is a possibility, but their limbs would not bend if that were the case. I will investigate further and let you know when I have answers." "Tom, how long until we're in tractor beam range?" "Five minutes captain." "Tractor it in when you can Tuvok." "Chakotay, B'Elanna, Harry, meet me in my ready room when you get back." "Mr. Tuvok you have the con. You and Mr. Paris come in with the others." --- "Well, any ideas?" Captain Janeway asked her assembled officers. Commander Tuvok began his report. "Our records show the USS Darius as having left Deep Space Six in 2293. They were on a supply mission to a deep space colony and never returned. They made their scheduled delivery and were headed back to Deep Space Six when they were reported missing somewhere near the Romulan border. The crew manifest was not listed in our computer." "Captain" began B'Elanna, "I think I can have her powered up and we can get her computer data in three hours." "Do it. Keep me informed, they may have some information on the Delta Quadrant. Harry, go with B'Elanna and see what you can do to get that ship operational." "EMH to the captain" "Yes Doctor, what can you tell us about the corpses." "Well, for one, they aren't corpses. Perhaps you would like to meet our visitors." "That's not possible Doctor!" "I assure you Mr. Chakotay, they are alive, and are not happy." "Doctor, are they contained?" "Yes Captain, I initiated a level three forcefield before beaming them over. It is standard procedure." "Tuvok, Chakotay, you're with me. Have a security team meet us there. Mr. Paris, you have the con." --- "Where the bloody hell are we!?" "Now just calm down, you've suffered a trauma and I need to treat you." The doctor said in his best patient interaction tone as he stepped through the forcefield and into the taller patient's containment field. He pointed a tricorder at the man and started mumbling to himself. "This can't be right. " The doctor stepped back through the containment field, got a new tricorder and walked through the other containment field as if it were not there. Patient number 2 tried to walk through, and instantly bounced off with a yelp. "Dammit! that hurt. Where are we and who are you. I see you are Starfleet medical. Are we prisoners here? " "Hello" Both men and the holographic doctor turned and looked at the Captain. She was closely followed by Chakotay and Tuvok. "I am Captain Janeway and you are on the Starship Voyager." "Are we back in the Alpha Quadrant then?" asked patient number one. As Janeway took in the two very human looking men, their expressions changed from their earlier outbursts at the doctor. She could read these two no better than she could a Vulcan. "No, I'm sorry, we aren't in the Alpha Quadrant. We are in the Delta Quadrant. We found your ship drifting in space. You've been out here quite awhile." Janeway turned her attention away from the two men and addressed the Doctor. "I would like to see you in your office Doctor. Chakotay, Tuvok, you're with me. Have the security team stay in sickbay with our guests." As soon as the four officers entered the doctor's office Janeway began, "Doctor, what happened, and what are they?" "Captain, within five minutes after beaming over, they both re-animated, for lack of a better word. They gasped for air as if they were in pain and then sat up. Once they realized they were not where they expected themselves to be, both of them were immediately off their biobeds, standing in defensive postures, and appeared to be looking for weapons. As for what they are, they are human. All the right organs, all the right lifesigns, the right features, even the correct number of chromosomes. There are some differences, but I will need to conduct more detailed tests to be sure. All indications point to them being human. The odd thing is that they seem to have antibodies to diseases that no longer exist. I am not willing to let them out of containment fields until I know they pose no health threat to the crew." "Doctor, are you sure they were dead?" "Yes, Commander Tuvok, they were dead. They had zero brain activity, zero. They've been in space for eight-five years, on a ship with no life support, how could they not be dead?" "How indeed?" was the Vulcan's answer. "I think its time to question our 'guests'. I would like to hear their explanation." From the set of Captain Janeway's shoulders as she walked out of the office and into sickbay, Chakotay was glad he was not going to be on the receiving end of this interrogation. As the two patients saw the group of officers coming towards them, they both stood up inside their containment fields. "Ah, so the inquisition begins. But first Captain, could you please tell us how long we have been 'Lost In Space'?" It was the shorter of the two men who asked the question, but the Captain addressed her answer to both men. "Around eighty-five years. And now that I've answered your question, you will answer some of mine. How are you alive?" "I don't know that I am, I'm not feeling well right now." said patient number two who immediately laid down on his biobed and closed his eyes. "Ach, me neither" said patient number one and he laid back down and closed his eyes. "Gentleman, you will answer my questions. Doctor, how are they?" "They're fine Captain. I don't understand it. They are both undernourished and dehydrated, but otherwise, they are in perfect health." "Let's start with something simple. What are your names?" "I don't remember anything Captain Janeway." Answered patient number two. His face gave away nothing. If she thought Tom Paris was adept at erasing his face into a blank slate, this man was the master. Not even the shock of finding that he had been drifting in space for eighty five years was enough to change that countenance. "Occhh, me neither" answered the first patient in a thick Scottish brogue. This man looked a little more shaken, maybe he would answer her questions more readily. She turned her attention to him. "I am not in the mood for games! Are you human?" "Yes" they answered together. "Born and raised on Earth," continued patient number one. "Oh, an answer to one of my questions. Very well next question, what is the last thing you remember?" "I remember leaving Deep Space Six to deliver medical supplies." Answered the taller of the two men. "After that, everything is blank." "And you?" "That's the last thing I remember, Captain. " "So Starfleet made it to the Delta Quadrant in the past eighty five years? I thought it would take them much longer." Patient number one said, looking at Janeway. She couldn't help but notice how attractive the man addressing her was. Tall, with a lean frame, and an aura of self-assuredness that couldn't be mistaken for arrogance. "How much longer until we return to the Alpha Quadrant Captain? " She stared into his liquid brown eyes, straining to see some type of reaction in their depths as she answered his question. " It should be about sixty-five years give or take a few months." "Why would Starfleet send a crew on a lifelong mission? Has the Federation really changed that much in the past eighty-five years? Are you the second generation of the original crew?" "We were not sent here, it was an accident and we're making our way back. It looks like you've just signed on board. I don't think your ship will be traveling under its own power anytime soon. Now if you don't want to spend the next sixty-five years in the brig, you will answer my questions, instead of asking questions. You haven't explained how you managed to survive so long in a dead ship. Forgive my bluntness gentlemen, but we have met too many dishonest travelers to settle for anything less than the truth from you." The two patients looked at each other and seemed to share a silent communication. The first patient stood up and looked at Janeway. "Could you please ask your junior officers to leave. No one without security clearance can hear this." Captain Janeway was a little startled to realize the man was about to share something important. Could these two possibly be working for Starfleet? "Everyone out but Chakotay and Tuvok. Security, stand guard outside the door." "Continue please, your names first, I like to know who I'm talking to." The Captain softened her tone with them once she knew she would hear an explanation from the two men. It wasn't quite what she was expecting. The taller patient straightened himself to his full height and proclaimed in a rich baritone and a hint of a brogue, "I am Duncan MacLeod Of The Clan MacLeod." Patient number two stayed on his bed and simply stated, "I am Methos, not as impressive a name as his, but it works for me." "Now for the tough one, how are you two alive and well?" "Methos, do you want to answer this one?" Duncan asked his friend. "Thanks MacLeod." The intense looking man with the gold-green eyes and pale skin focused his attention on the Captain and took a deep breath before continuing. "Captain, have you ever heard of immortal humans?" "Immortals figure prominently in fairy tales gentlemen. My grandmother told me the stories when I was young." "Ah, but they are not fairytales Captain. How else would you explain us?" The one called Duncan replied. "Captain, what did your grandmother tell you of immortals? Maybe we should start there." It was Methos who addressed her this time. He got up his bed and stared at her as if he could make her believe with his eyes alone. She took in the sinewy young man who looked no older than a twenty six year old human. "Mr. Methos---" Methos waved his hand and interrupted the Captain, "Just Methos, Captain, I only have the one name." "Okay then, Methos, my grandmother used to tell me bedtime stories of people who couldn't die. She said they were a race of men living separate from, yet within human society, not changing from one generation to the next while those around them grew old and died. She told the story as a tragedy, but it wasn't until I was older that I stopped thinking of the stories as anything but romantic." "Aye Captain, is no romantic to die over an' over again from cold, hunger, and suffocation when you are on a dead ship wit no pw'r for eighty-five years." this was from Duncan who had paled considerably under his olive complexion. "No, I don't suppose it is Mr. MacLeod. My grandmother used to say that the immortals were tragic figures doomed to fight each other to the death over the centuries. She never told me how they could fight to the death if they couldn't die though. You surely don't expect us to believe that you two are immortals." "Captain," interrupted the Doctor, "I would like to run some more conclusive tests on the patients with your permission." "No!!" Methos was practically shouting, his outward calm shaken to the core, "You do not have my permission Doctor, I am not a lab rat. Men like you have wanted to study us for hundreds of years. Some are truly curious, but most want to become immortal themselves. Some have even wanted to breed armies of immortals for their own cause. The perfect soldier. Captain doesn't the Federation have laws about medical testing on sentient beings? We wish to be treated according to standard prisoner laws." "First of all, gentlemen, you are not prisoners, you are guests. Secondly, the Doctor did not mean 'experimentation' when he spoke of running tests, and most importantly, the Doctor is already immortal. He is a sentient hologram, not a living human. So you have no need to worry about him dissecting you for his own gain. We are also a long way from Starfleet and the Alpha Quadrant, what we learn goes no further than Voyager. Is that clear?" Neither man had relaxed his suddenly defensive posture even with the Captain's forceful declaration that no harm would come to them. "Thank you Captain, that was exactly what I was about to say. I would like to classify all findings under Chief Medical Officer Eyes only. " "Doctor, I as Captain, Chakotay as first officer, and Tuvok as head of security will be added to that eyes only list. Sorry, gentlemen, that is the most I can do. For now, you will remain in sickbay inside containment fields until we figure out what to do with you. The doctor is concerned that you could infect the crew with antibodies you carry. Until we learn more, sickbay will be your temporary quarters. Make yourselves comfortable. A meal will be delivered shortly. Doctor, please inform me when you have more information about our guests." --- In the turbolift, each officer was lost in his own thoughts. Tuvok, being a Vulcan, was trying to logically reconcile the patients' condition and assertions with his knowledge of human history. As the Chief security officer he was wary of them and tried to visualize scenarios where they would be a threat to Voyager and what he could do to stop them. The first thing is he decided was to keep a full security detail outside sickbay. Secondly, he would check all information the computer had on the oxymoron 'immortal humans'. "Captain?" Captain Janeway was lost in her own thoughts of the two men and their improbable story. she wondered, To remain young forever, imagine the possibilities. On a more somber note she thought, imagine the pain to see those you love grow old and die. To have to constantly be on the move so no one could see you remain the same as the years passed. To know that your family was long dead. To have no place to call home. "Yes Commander?" The Captain asked, jarred out of her thoughts by the Vulcan's question. "I doubt their explanation. I will be running a full background check on both men. I may need higher security clearances to access all of the information we may have. However, without access to all of the Federation databases, I do not know if my inquiries will yield any substantial information. I do believe we will find some information, otherwise they would not have requested that non security authorized personnel leave the sickbay. I will keep you informed of my progress." After Tuvok left the lift the Captain turned her eyes to Chakotay to find him lost in thought. "What are you thinking about Commander?" asked the Captain when she saw him staring at the walls. "Excuse me Captain? I didn't hear you." "I thought so Chakotay, I asked what you're thinking about." "Old legends and myths, stories I've heard, that sort of thing. We have legends of immortals in my culture as well Captain. But our legends are not the stuff of children's bedtime stories. Our legends are a little more sinister. They talk of games these immortals played with each other, trapping mortals in between them. Our legends were about the evil of most immortals and the purity of few. They talk of these people as great warriors, single men able to kill whole villages and war parties." "Well, Chakotay, if your legends are more accurate than mine, let's hope that we stumbled across two of the few. Do you remember any stories about how they actually can die?" "Captain, are you saying that you believe their story?" "Chakotay, let's just say that as Captain, I have to keep an open mind." As the turbolift opened onto the bridge, she continued, "You have the bridge, I'll be in my ready room doing my own research. Notify me as soon as B'Elanna and Harry report their findings from our visitors ship." --- "Duncan, I'm going to take your head for this one." Methos was glaring at Duncan from behind his containment field. The two men had finished eating and Duncan was pacing inside his 'cell', while Methos was sitting on his bunk. "Of all the harebrained ideas in all of the galaxies, I knew we wouldn't get anywhere near Ithax IV. So thanks to you, we spend eighty five years in space dying over and over again and ending up in the damned Delta Quadrant! When am I going to learn not to be led around by a mere child." Duncan stood up to get as close to Methos as possible within their respective containment fields, "Methos, when are you going to stop calling me a child? It's getting old. Hell, I'm getting old. You can't possibly blame this on me. You're the one who decided we should get out of the game, not me. I only picked the location for our retirement. You wanted somewhere out of the way, and I agreed. Ithax IV would have been the perfect place to remain obscure for centuries." "Well, guess what Duncan, we're out of the game. I wonder if we're the only ones left?" "Methos, you of all people, know how long its been going on, I doubt eighty five years will make that much of a difference. Nor the sixty five years it's going to take us to get back." "Maybe we shouldn't go back. How many of us could there be in the Delta Quadrant? This could be a good place to stay, think of the exploring we could do. Maybe the nice Captain will give us a shuttle, and send us on our way." Methos was grinning widely at Duncan by this time and had the mischievous look in his eye that Duncan both loved and dreaded. Duncan turned to his partner and gave Methos a look that melted his soul, "For now, I'd just be happy if she would put us in the same containment field, It's been too long since we've touched. Methos, that was the closest to Hell I've ever come. I knew it had been a long time, but eighty five years? I just want to hold you and celebrate being alive. The only thing that kept it from being unadulterated Hell was seeing you in a different place each time I revived. I knew you were still with me." "Couldn't have said it better myself old friend." Methos was sprawled on his bunk looking as if he couldn't keep his eyes open another second if his head depended on it. "Duncan, how much do you think the galaxy has changed in the past century?" When Duncan turned to his friend to reply, he saw a clearly exhausted and almost completely asleep Methos. "Probably not enough." He whispered. "Rest old man, I'll watch your back." --- Could they possibly be telling the truth? Captain Janeway wondered as she stared at the walls of her ready room. It would explain their being alive. What other possible explanation is there for them to be walking around her sickbay after what they had been through? The question is, what is she going to do with them? B'Elanna and Harry were still unable to access the computer of the old ship. Even if they were able to access the ship's records, she wasn't expecting to learn much about the men themselves. It could corroborate part of the tale, but not answer all of the questions she had. It had been six hours and still no success. She had received neither conformation nor negation of their story. Her research in Voyager's computer bank was no help either. She had found no record of either man, but Starfleet did not fill a Starship's computer records with every human in the Alpha Quadrant. Even bionueral circuitry could not contain that much information. Perhaps their best hope lay with the Doctor's findings. "Janeway to sickbay." "Yes, Captain?" came the immediate reply. "How are our guests?" "Suspicious, Captain. They are taking turns sleeping and watching me. They have been fed again and seem to have suffered no damage from their ordeal. I have made some interesting discoveries and will be ready to report in one hour. Would you like to meet here in sickbay or in your ready room." "Chakotay, Tuvok and I will be there in one hour. Janeway out." The Captain walked onto the bridge of Voyager and noticed the increased alertness. It had been a long five months of not much to keep everyone's interest. There seemed to be an air of expectancy on the bridge. She wondered what the rumor mills were churning out today? "Commander Chakotay, please join me in my ready room when Commander Tuvok arrives." --- "Captain, I have found information that may be relevant to our guests." Tuvok began fifteen minutes later in the Captain's office. "In the late 21st century, the first confirmation of an 'immortal' was found. Fairy Tales and legends of Immortals had been told for millennia, but it wasn't until 2097 that medical science confirmed the existence of a man with amazing recuperative powers. This man's body would heal itself of any injury, including severed limbs, if they were in direct contact with the body. Healing was almost instantaneous. He would revive from clinical death within an hour with no medical treatment. Tricorders were a new technology, and based on the readings of primitive tricorders, this man's body emitted an electrical current far higher than normal for humans. We still have records of the energy signature to compare with our guests." "Was there only one man Commander? Maybe he was a genetic anomaly, or a leftover from the Eugenics wars. If I remember my early Federation history correctly, most records from before the last World War were lost." "Captain, it was confirmed that he was not genetically engineered. And, so far as the records show, he was the only person ever medically confirmed to have these abilities. He also told the researchers under duress almost the same story that our guests have told us. That is all the information I have access to Captain. Everything else has security clearances at the Federation Council level only." "And how were his healing powers confirmed, Commander Tuvok?" Chakotay looked angry at the implications the Vulcan had made. "Commander, this man was held at a military medical research facility for forty two years and never aged a day. No confirmation of his actual age was ever made. Yearly digital images were made of him and he never changed from the twenty-five year old he appeared to be when first confined to the facility." "They used that man as a research subject for forty-two years?!?" Captain Janeway had gone white at this revelation from her security chief. "And what experiments were conducted Commander?" "Severed limbs, electrocution, bloodletting, burning, gunshot wounds, stab wounds, drowning, asphyxiation...." "That's enough Commander, I understand. That is absolutely barbaric! When did the 'research' on this man end?" "In the year 2139 of the old Earth calendar. Captain, there are more facts you need to know. In the years that this man was held, the facility was attacked more than once. Whole armies fell to very few raiders. In the year 2112 thirty seven army generals and 41 army physicians were assassinated. Not all of them were connected to this facility. The week after the man escaped, seventeen different heads of state around the world were found beheaded. I don't believe it was coincidence. It appears to have been a secret war. Governments fell at a rate twice the normal for Earth history. This secret war seems to have been a prominent factor in Earth finally having one planetwide rule from the United Nations of Earth. No mention has been made since of immortals in official records. . And there has never been another confirmed government run 'research study'. Captain, the most disturbing information I found are the pictures of the man used in the research. The pictures are of the man calling himself Methos. He called himself Adam Kelly then, but it is the same man. There was a stunned silence before anyone spoke. Captain Janeway fought for control over the involuntary muscles of her stomach not to give up the lunch she had just eaten. Commander Chakotay looked as if a storm were brewing on his normally calm features. Only the Vulcan security chief looked non-pulsed at the news. He, after all, was the one who delivered it. "How could this have remained hidden all of these years? You say the experiments stopped in 2139? That was less than 250 years ago, and only 175 years ago to our guests. Recent history depending on their ages. No wonder they're suspicious of the Doctor. When I last spoke to him he said they were alternating watches on him. I wonder how old they are? If they lived through this secret war, Gods, that would make them at least 300 years old." "Captain, we should release these men from sickbay immediately. Confine them to quarters, keep a security detail on them, whatever it takes. I don't think it's necessary to keep them confined to sickbay. Assign them temporary quarters. Locked from the outside if you see them as a threat." Commander Chakotay was vehement, practically slamming his fists on the table as he spoke. "Can you blame them for being suspicious of us? The first thing we do is order tests on them." "We have a meeting with the Doctor in ten minutes. I'll meet you both in sickbay." After the senior officers left her ready room, Captain Janeway had the privacy to let herself imagine what that poor man's life had been like as, what had he said, a lab rat. She sometimes couldn't believe the barbarism that her species was determined to inflict on its own. She understood that times were different, but such base cruelty to a sentient being, she could never understand. I wonder what's in those Federation Council Eyes Only reports? Could the two men in her sickbay tell her? More importantly, --- As Commander Chakotay walked through the bridge on his way to the turbolift, Tom Paris tried to catch his lover's eye from his position at the helm. Whatever is going on, it's something big. He had been on the bridge when the Doctor's initial report came in. How could those two guys be alive? Tom couldn't believe that he actually wished that today had been his duty shift in sickbay rather than yesterday. Of all the luck. It was the first time he had ever wished to have been in sickbay rather than piloting his ship. He would give up six months worth of replicator rations to be there right now. Maybe he could stage a little accident? All he knew was that he wanted, no needed to be in sickbay right now. He needed to talk to those two men. He felt it to his core. He had never scored very high on the PSI scale when he took the tests, but he swore that he was having premonitions about the two men in sickbay. Just as the turbolift closed on his lover, he caught Chakotay's eye. The Commander's face looked as if a hurricane of emotions were passing through his mind. Tom was comforted by the thought that secrets were never kept on a ship this size. He would find out. Maybe Harry knew something. "Mr. Paris... Mr. Paris... LIEUTENANT" Tom nearly jumped out of his seat when the Captain yelled at him from less than five feet away, "Yes Captain?" "Lt. Paris, you have the Conn. pay attention while you do. And Lieutenant that is an order!" After the Captain stormed off the bridge, all Tom could think was that this was bigger than something his usually fertile imagination could ever consider. What the hell is going on down there? --- As Captain Janeway walked into sickbay, she saw Commanders Tuvok and Chakotay in the Doctor's office. Both patients were standing at the foot of their beds inside of their respective containment fields. Both had schooled their features to reveal nothing to her as she passed them. "Captain," MacLeod called to her across the room, "don't 'ya think 'ya should be havin' yer meetin' out here? It is after all about ar' lives ain't it?" "Yes, Mr. MacLeod, we should and we will." Captain Janeway couldn't help but think about the way the man's accent seemed to broaden when he was stressed or confrontational. A small chink in his armor to be sure, but still there. Maybe he would be easier to talk to than Methos. Something to keep in the back of her mind. --- "So Captain Janeway," this time it was Methos addressing her. "Have you checked us out? Have you learned anything interesting?" This man had a way to him that made every nerve ending in her tingle. She imagined he could see through her with those odd gold-green eyes of his. Not quite hazel, not quite green, but a melding of the two. Kathryn, snap out of it she told herself. How can you be thinking about the man's eyes? She immediately knew that he knew the answer to his own question. "Gentlemen, I think you know what we have learned. We were able to access some of the files, but most, unfortunately, are unavailable to us. We do not have security clearance. After what we have found, I am not sure I want to see the rest." "They kept him in that place, killing him over and over again. Torturing him day after day. Burning, stabbing, dissecting. They were driving him insane. I got him out of there. It took me twenty years to be accepted into that facility. All that time in the military, all that time planning. After I knew he was safe, I killed every person responsible for what they did to him. What do you think of your guest now Captain? " Methos turned to face his friend and spoke in a soft voice, "Duncan, you did what needed to be done. Dammed brooding Scot. How many times have I told you what's done is done. You are an honorable man Duncan MacLeod. Without you, how long do you think it would have taken for those stupid, blind, territorial men to have formed their world government. You are the reason there even is a Federation. Stop torturing yourself Duncan MacLeod. If it were my choice, the open warfare between mortal and immortal would have continued to the bloody end. If I were in any state to have done anything about it, they would ALL be dead!!!" Methos was shouting at his friend by this time and had thrown himself into the containment field in an attempt to get to him. He was swearing in a language the Universal translators couldn't identify and couldn't translate based on a few shouted obscenities. He didn't seem to be physically harmed by the field, just reacted as if stung. Duncan was not his friend, the Captain realized. Not his friend--- his lover, his soulmate, his conscience. She felt as if she were intruding into a very private and very old argument between the two. "Doctor, are they a health threat to the crew?" "No Captain, I was going to explain... "Drop the containment fields." She interrupted. "Mr. MacLeod, Methos, join us in the doctor's office." The Doctor's office seemed very crowded to the Captain as she handed the men drinks. The Scotsman seemed to take up much more space than his size would indicate, but his friend seemed to melt into the walls. Duncan would be a match for Chakotay the Captain couldn't help but think, but Methos would be no match for Tuvok. If either of them got violent, the Doctor could sedate them. She understood some of the dynamics of the relationship, but who was mentor and who was student? From physical presence alone, she would have said Duncan was the mentor, but the Captain knew firsthand how deceiving physical appearance could be. There was something about the other that disturbed her. He was the one to be wary of. The thought came to her from somewhere too far inside her mind to recognize. "Captain, would you like my report on their medical condition now?" "Yes Doctor, please begin." "When beamed aboard, both men were clinically dead. From the condition of their bodies, they had been dead for less than two hours. They were not in sickbay five minutes before reviving. Medical scans show cause of death as hypothermia and asphyxiation." "Repeatedly" Methos interrupted. "That's what has been happening to us for the past eight-five years. Revive and die, revive and die. Over and Over again. We would revive and be able to move maybe a foot, maybe ten until death would come again. That's how we were able to avoid hitting anything. We had manually operated the navigation by sight alone. We could never stay alive long enough to do anything about our overall problem however until we ran into you." Commander Chakotay had been silent since the meeting in the briefing room. He was having a hard time assimilating all of the information he'd had thrown at him since this improbable series of events began. Could it have only been this morning? Gods, what had these two men been through in the past eighty five years? He couldn't let his mind even linger on thoughts of what it must have been like for them. And then to be rescued and have the specter of medical tests thrown at them. No wonder Methos seemed hostile. Duncan just seemed resigned. He had no idea that this was a reversal of their usual roles. He too, had Duncan figured as the teacher, the older of the two. He wanted to know how old they were. He had to know. It took all of his strength not to just blurt out the question. Gods, could they be 300 or 400 years old, or even older? He had just the normal interest in history, not a passion for it, but if these two men had been around at the beginning of the Federation....had they been there for first contact? These men had so much to share with the world, yet couldn't and wouldn't. Maybe it was better for them to be in the Delta Quadrant where no one would even know how unusual they were. Chakotay was drawn out of his reverie as the Doctor began his report. "All of the antibodies in your bodies are benign, they can't be spread to the crew. And if they could, we would make vaccines from the antibodies in you. Your physiology is completely human. There is no doubt about it. On the microcellular level, you are human. I have not examined your gene sequences to find out what makes you immortal. I won't do that, I believe that my decision falls under the bioengineering treaties in effect in the Federation." "What bioengineering treaties Doctor?" Methos was the one to ask the question. The Captain answered him "All bioengineering of humans has been outlawed on Earth for generations Methos. . I agree with the doctor that trying to find a gene or combination of genes that cause your condition would fall under this treaty. Continue with your findings Doctor." "Well, under the circumstances, that is all I have to report. They are both healthy, and human. Their physiology confirms they were born and raised on Earth. Their bodies' optimal gravity point is the same as the Earth's gravity. It is the simplest test to determine if they are who they say they are. That was the question wasn't it Captain, are they who they say they are?" " Mr. MacLeod, Methos," Tuvok began, "If I may ask, how old are you?" "Are you asking that as the chief of security or out of curiosity, Vulcan?" Methos asked Tuvok. "Vulcans are not curious, Methos" was the only answer. Duncan began before Methos could respond to the Vulcan. "I was born In the Highlands of Scotland on the winter solstice in the year 1592. I was born Duncan MacLeod of the Clan MacLeod. I suffered my first death in battle against the Sassenach Englishmen thirty years later. I have remained the same since that day." Duncan's speech had reverted to that of the Highlands of his birth. When Duncan finished speaking, there wasn't a sound in the room. All eyes were on him, not quite believing what they heard. Could they have misunderstood? It was hard to imagine that the man sitting in front of them was almost 800 years old. "Doctor, is there any way to determine if that is the truth?" "Do 'ya question ma honor Vulcan? Duncan MacLeod doesna' lie." For the first time, the officers on Voyager saw the fire beneath the surface of the man. They had only seen the calm, the resignation, the regrets, but not the fire. Tuvok, Chakotay, and Janeway all reminded themselves not to ever underestimate their guests. To have survived for eight hundred years was inconceivable to them. Most of Duncan's life was lived in a time when Earth was a brutal place. It would be good to remember that in the future. "As a matter of fact Commander, there is a way to verify what he has said. As I said earlier, both men carry pathogens that no longer exist in the human race. From that evidence alone, I can confirm that Mr. MacLeod was born no later than 1750. If I were to conduct a detailed cellular workup I could tell you the year of his birth within fifty years. Human genetics change with each generation. It would be fairly simple for me to extrapolate to the generation he was born in, then I would average......” "That won't be necessary Doctor. Mr. MacLeod has already told us when he was born." The Captain could tell she had interrupted the Doctor at the point of his lecture in which he expected every person in the room to be hanging onto his every word. She didn't care. The man sitting next to her represented almost the entire last millennium of human history. "Mr. MacLeod" "Please, call me Duncan, Captain" "Duncan, are there others as old as you? Other men who have seen as much, been there through so much history as you? " Suffered through the lose of so many friends, she thought but didn't say. "Aye Captain there are. I don't know how many or who is still alive though, Methos and I have been gone a long time. I am not old for my kind, Captain. Some still call me child." Only Tuvok caught the hint of a smile in Duncan's eye when he said child and looked directly at Methos. "And you, Methos, how old are you?" Tuvok wanted to know. "Commander Tuvok, I don't see how my age would represent any security threat to Voyager and her crew." "That is not your decision to make Methos." Tuvok leveled his eyes at Methos and dared him not to answer. "Methos, you don't have to give us your exact age, but I am curious. If you don't mind telling us, I would like to know. Not because of Voyager's security, but because of human curiosity. Are you older than Duncan?" This was the first time Chakotay had asked either man a direct question and that was not lost on either Duncan or Methos. "Yes, Commander Chakotay," Methos said with a sigh. "I am older than the young pup here." "Do you call him child?" Chakotay could not suppress a grin when he saw the look his question placed on Duncan's face. "Commander, I have called him many things, but yes, child is among them." Methos wanted to tell them his age, he really did, but centuries, no millennia, of letting no one know who he really was made it difficult for him to continue. He looked at Duncan, his soulmate, his lover, his sword to his own shield. Duncan did not miss Methos' unasked question and gave a nod to the older man. Duncan knew Methos was asking if Duncan thought they could be trusted and Duncan did. He remembered the last conversation they had before the Ion storm nearly ruined their small craft. Methos had been complaining to Duncan that all of Starfleet were boyscouts just like Duncan and that Duncan should sign up for Starfleet. He had complained that Earth was now boring, too hard to keep identities going, too hard to live the way they had forever. They had to leave, explore the galaxy. It might feel liberating to tell them the truth. He also thought it might be fun to really shock them. Maybe he would even share some of his journals with them. Edited versions, of course. He knew who and what he had been and he knew that these people could not accept parts of their own race's history. Duncan, his love, his soulmate could not accept some of what he had been, these people would never understand. "I am so old, you wouldn't believe me if I told you. I am older than Jesus Christ, I knew Helen of Troy, I am older than the Buddha . I am older than some of the mountain ranges on Earth. I predate bronze. I feasted with the Pharaohs, I was born before the written word, I am that old. As well as I can figure, I am at least five thousand, five hundred years old. I don't know my exact age, we didn't exactly keep track of births back then. I am the oldest human anywhere, period. I don't know when my first death occurred, I don't know who my parents were or exactly where I was born. Oh yeah, and I'm tired. Where are we sleeping tonight? I'm hungry too." Mac couldn't help rolling his eyes at his friend before he began "Methos, did ya hafta be so melodramatic? "Sorry Mac, I couldn't help myself. They wanted to know. Do you think they're OK? I didn't give anyone a heart attack did I? Ah, at least we're already in sickbay. " Methos sat in his chair looking at the faces around him. They all seemed to be in shock. The only one still moving was the Doctor. He was standing next to Methos running a tricorder over him not even bothering to hide his excitement over his patient. "Hey Duncan, its been five minutes and still not a word from any of them, do you think they're in shock? Remind me to do this more often, I like the reaction." "Shut up Methos. Captain? Commanders? Are 'ya goin' to say anything at all?" "Mr. Tuvok, assign our guests quarters and have a security team escort them there. Shared quarters for the two will be fine." And the Captain said nothing more untlil the two men had left the room. --- "Doctor", the Captain began a few minutes later, "was Methos telling the truth? I would like you to run those extrapolations you mentioned earlier." "Captain, I already have. Methos is indeed telling the truth about his age, as far as he knows. I don't know if he was telling the truth about being the oldest of the immortals. It would not be hard to believe that he is. Captain, Mr. Methos is not five thousand, five hundred years old, he is over six thousand years old. Do you know what this means?" "Doctor, I am well aware of the implications. Now, what do we do about it?" The Captain looked at her three officers sitting around her. Commander Chakotay looked the most disturbed by recent events. Kathryn laughed to herself, I've probably got the same look on my face. "None of this goes any further than this room. Their being alive will be credited to personal stasis fields that we were not aware of. Understood?" "Understood Captain", began Chakotay, "Methos is a link to the whole of history of the human race. We can't let anything happen to him. Do we ask them to join us? What are we going to do with them? That man is a living treasure." "Captain, I have to point out that those men lived through brutal and bloody times, they may not have the same ideals and principals that modern humans hold. I still view them to be a security risk. There were weapons found in the belongings on board their ship. Two very old phasers, and a collection of ancient swords. I have the weapons locked down in the security offices, the rest of their things will be sent to their quarters." "For now, gentlemen, we will treat them as civilian guests. They are going to need help adjusting to this century. Chakotay, see they get access to the historical databases. I would like you and Tom Paris to help them adjust. You both have the next two days off to help our guests. It's ultimately their decision to stay with us or not. I rather hope they do. Their ship will not be going anywhere for some time according to B'Elanna, so for now it doesn't matter. Let's give them some time to adjust." --- When the senior officers returned to the bridge, Alpha shift was just being relieved by Beta shift. Tom couldn't wait to get Chakotay alone and pump him for information, and a little more he thought. Tommy get your mind out of the gutter for once. There's something going on and it's big. He watched as the Captain went into her ready room and Tuvok to his security station. He left the first officer's chair as Chakotay came down to greet him. Tom still didn't feel comfortable sitting in the Captain's chair even if he did have the Conn for a whole shift. "Tom, the Captain would like to see you and me in her ready room. Mr. Tuvok, you have the Conn." He followed Chakotay into the Captain's office and sat down. >There's no way finding out about these two guys was going to be so easy>, he thought. "Tom, Chakotay, you two are officially off duty for the next two days. Our guests are going to need help finding their way around the ship, and adjusting to life on Voyager. Chakotay, fill Tom in on what he needs to know. Keep me informed. Tom, how much longer until we reach inhabited space again?" "Captain, it looks like another two weeks, three at the most." "Well, our little side trip didn't take us too far off our schedule. Supplies should hold up just fine until then. We still have a large store of Leola root left. Dismissed gentlemen, enjoy yourselves. And Tom, don't teach our new friends any bad habits." --- "Chakotay, what are those guys?" "Tom, they're humans, they've been in stasis for the past eight-five years, so they're going to need some time to adjust. Don't pester them with too many questions." Chakotay wondered why the Captain assigned he and Tom to help them. He was sure it had to do with them seeing each other, but how did she know? Last night was their first time together. "They weren't in stasis chambers Chak." "They had personal stasis devices we didn't know about. If anyone asks you, you can tell them that, no more. Everything else about them will be classified until we know more about them. OK?" Chakotay understood now why the Captain wanted Tom in on this, he was tuned into the ship's information network. Within hours the personal stasis story would be accepted as fact. "Go get changed, we're having dinner with our guests in my quarters. 2100 hours. Tomorrow, we'll show them the ship." Tom got off the lift on his own deck and Chakotay continued on to Duncan and Methos' quarters. He stood outside their door to compose himself before ringing the chimes. "Commander Chakotay, come in, what can we do for you? Methos is sleeping in the bedroom. Have a seat." Duncan answered the door wearing a pair of shorts he must have gotten from his things, and nothing else. Chakotay couldn't help admiring the man's body. Skin almost as dark as his own, nicely muscled torso, but not bulky. Long, dark wavy hair still damp from a shower, loose from its binding of earlier. Brown eyes, beautiful face, and full lips. Chakotay, get a hold of yourself, his lover is in the other room and yours is getting ready for dinner with you. "Mr. MacLeod, I'm here to invite you and Methos to dinner with myself and the ship's pilot. We've been assigned by the Captain to show you around Voyager. Tom and I will be the only ones there tonight, and tomorrow we'll show you around the ship. She thought you should start becoming familiar with Voyager. You'll be welcome here as long as you want to stay. Dinner will be at 2100 hours. If you're too tired, we can meet at breakfast instead." Chakotay was hoping they wouldn't be too tired tonight, he wanted them to meet Tom and he wanted to get to know them himself. "Well, Chakotay, since we don't know how to make our own dinner yet, we'd be delighted to join you." "Here, let me show you how to use the com system and the computer. The security detail will show you to my quarters. I'm sorry they're assigned to you. Within the next few days I'm sure Mr. Tuvok will reassign them." "Chakotay, it's common sense to assign a security detail to people you know nothing about, don't worry about it. Where are we going to dinner tonight? I missed that part." Methos looked like he was still half asleep when he addressed Chakotay from the doorway of the sleeping room. "In my quarters with my friend Lt. Tom Paris. We won't make you brave the messhall yet. I've been given extra rations by the Captain for the next two days to help you two settle in." "Voyager is under rations? How long have you been in the Delta quadrant, Commander?" Methos was beginning to think that they had no idea what they had gotten themselves into. "Since you're both up, why don't we have dinner here and Tom and I will explain everything over dinner. Chakotay to Lt. Paris... Chakotay to Paris" "Ah Chak, I've got soap in my eyes, what's up big guy? I was in the shower." "Tom, I'm in our guests' quarters. Change in plans, we're going to have dinner here as soon as you get here." "Whoops, OK Commander. Lt. Paris out." "Friend huh." was all Methos said after that display from Lt. Paris. "Yeah, close friend, you could say. Here I'll show you how things work in here while we wait for him. He's usually pretty quick." Methos was watching the commander watch him. Why does every person who finds out about my age insist on examining me under a microscope? OK so I'm old, but I'm still a person. "Commander Chakotay," Methos looked at their visitor, "I'm just a guy. No matter where I've been, how long I've lived, or what I've done, I'm still Just. A. Guy. Got it?" "I'm sorry I was staring Methos. You have to understand how hard it is to look at you and not wonder what you've seen. You have all of human history inside you. It's hard to forget that.' "I'm going to go change out of my uniform, I should be back before Tom gets here, my quarters are right next door. If he gets here first, com me and I'll hurry." --- "Well Duncan, what do you think of our hosts so far?" Methos was getting dressed in the bedroom to meet their dinner guests , but wanted to know Mac's opinion. He came out into the living area half dressed and dripping wet from his shower. "I think we've run out of water rations for today. If you want a shower it's going to have to be sonic. Sorry." "I knew better than to let you have the first shower Methos, I showered while you slept. So far, we've only met the Captain, Chakotay and Tuvok. I like the Captain, she seems honorable. Chakotay I also like. Tuvok, I'm not so sure about. I've never been fond of Vulcans. I prefer old hedonists like you." Duncan was across the room and had Methos in his arms before he finished his sentence. "Have I told you today that I love you?" "Every ten minutes Mac, you can keep saying it though, I rather enjoy it. How much time do you think we have before they get here?" "Not long enough for that," but he didn't stop the older man's kissing his neck. "besides, we're out of water remember." "They'll understand Mac, you heard the Commander, he and this Tom Paris are 'more then friends'. " "Duncan, Do you feel that?" Even before the older man had finished his question, Duncan was spinning for the door. "Where'd they put our bloody swords?! We're defenseless locked up in this room." "Relax Mac, its a pre-immortal, probably walking past in the corridor. Imagine that, running into a pre-immortal out here in the god-forsaken Delta quadrant of all places. We'll find out who it is later. There's no way he or she could know what they are." "He's not walking by Methos, he's still there." The door chimed as Mac finished his sentence. "Maybe it's the security team changing shifts. I'll get the door, stand out of sight Mac." Mac could see Methos' expression when the door opened. Methos looked to be in shock. He heard a voice and stepped out from next to the door to get a better look. He found himself looking at a taller version of Richie Ryan. No wonder Methos was shocked. Richie had been dead for almost 400 years killed by Mac's own sword. The man extended his hand to Methos first and said, "Hi I'm Lt. Tom Paris. Is Chakotay here? He told me to meet him here." "Methos, and this is Duncan MacLeod. The Commander went next door to change. Would you like to wait here for him?" Duncan couldn't understand how Methos' hand wasn't shaking and how he could talk to the young man so calmly. Richie had been Methos' lover when Duncan took his head. It took 150 years for Duncan to forgive himself, if he ever had. He had never discussed it with Methos. Some things were best left in the past. "Nah, I'll go get him, sometimes he takes forever to get ready, and I'm starved. We'll be right back." After the young man left the door, both immortals were lost in their own thoughts of the past. Finally, Duncan broke the silence. "So, Methos, do we tell them?" "And what would we say, sorry to break this to you commander, but your young lover is a pre-immortal who is a dead ringer for my former lover who was killed when Mac accidentally took his head fighting millennia evil spirits? How do you think that will go over Mac? We say nothing. I think we should let them show us around for the next two days, and then avoid them." --- "Lt. Paris, Commander Chakotay tells us you're the pilot of this ship." Methos began after the four men finished dinner. "I'm a pilot myself, though I've never piloted anything quite like Voyager." "Please, we've been through this already, call me Tom. If you'd like Methos, I'll show you the flight sims I've written for the holodeck." "Holodeck?" "You've never seen a holodeck before?, Oh, of course not, they just became standard on Starfleet ships ten years ago, I forgot, sorry." Duncan was rummaging around in the bedroom as the other three men were talking over coffee in the living area. They could hear things being shuffled around and finally, they heard a triumphant shout. Duncan entered the living room with a small crate, "I've found some Scotch that seems to have survived our little trip. It should still be very nice." "Mac, to tell you the truth, I'm dying for a beer, " but Methos continued for the benefit of the Starfleet officers, "it really is good scotch, you should try it." "Are you kidding, one hundred year old real Scotch? I'd love some. We haven't had real alcohol on Voyager since the first year we were in the Delta Quadrant." Tom couldn't hide his excitement as he got up and replicated two glasses for the treat. "Commander, would you like some?" Duncan was a little surprised when Tom only handed him the two glasses. "Nah," Tom answered for him, "Chakotay only drinks synthehol, right Chak? You didn't want any did you?" Tom was a little worried that he had spoken for the Commander, but Chakotay didn't seem to mind. "Actually, If you two aren't too tired, we could go to Sandrine's. Tom programmed his favorite French bar into the holodeck and it runs every night for a few hours as a community gathering place. We could play pool and you could meet some more of the crew. It shouldn't be too overwhelming at this time of night." Chakotay was hoping the two men would say yes. It had been a pleasant evening. He had forgotten exactly what the two men were and was just enjoying their company. Methos spoke for them, "I'm not too tired, I had a pretty long nap. Mac, are you up to going out?" "As long as I can bring my Scotch." Duncan said as he finished his drink. --- When the four men stepped into the Holodeck, they found themselves standing outside of Sandrine's. Tom led them into the tavern and was walking towards the bar when he saw the other two men were still standing in the doorway. Chakotay turned around when he noticed the two visitors were no longer next to him. "Methos, Duncan, is there something wrong? Most of the people are holocharacters, they're part of the program. There's only about eight or nine actual crew members here." Chakotay was beginning to think he had pushed the men too far for their first night on board. They were still standing in the doorway looking around the room. Tom was at the bar ordering drinks for Chakotay and Methos. Chakotay called the men over to a quiet booth in the back of the bar. "Sorry Chakotay, It just looks so real, we knew this bar as Joe's. It was a long time ago and Joe's been gone many years. He was a good friend." When Duncan had finished speaking, both men sat looking around the room thinking about the man that had brought them together. Joe had known Methos as Adam Pierson, a member of the Watcher Society, who was supposed to be a researcher working on The Methos Chronicles. Mac had known right away who Adam Pierson really was, later the three men became close friends. It was amazing how much the bar resembled Joe's Place. "I can't believe this place is still standing. Tom used to come here?" "Yeah, he's been through some rough times and Sandrine, that's her over there, the woman he's talking to, helped him through them. I wish he hadn't used alcohol as a crutch but that's in the past. He has a much higher tolerance for alcohol than I do, but I still worry when he drinks." Chakotay found the two men, especially Duncan, easy to talk to, and was telling them things about he and Tom that he didn't even know he felt. He had to get up before he found himself volunteering even more intimate details with them. "I'll go add us to the waiting list for the pool table. Will you two be all right here?" "Go ahead, we'll be fine." After the Commander left the table there was a pause before Methos began. "Mac, I was wrong, we shouldn't avoid them, I like them. Chakotay reminds me quite a bit of someone I know very well." "Oh and who would that be Methos? You surely cannot mean me? I see no resemblance." Mac was teasing Methos, and he knew it, "However, Tom Paris reminds me of someone I know and its not Richie. In fact, the more I get to know him, he doesn't even look like Richie to me anymore. But, he does remind me of you." "Mac, are you thinking of trading me in for a younger model?" Methos was practically laughing at his lover now. Two could play this game, "I know you like to play teacher and protector Mac, but that's taking things a little far don't you think? If I didn't know you better, I would think you were preparing to rob a cradle." "Don't start Methos, he's allot closer to my age than I am to yours. Besides, I like older men, well not all of them, but definitely one. How long do you think we have to stay here before we can politely say our goodnights?" Mac had moved over to Methos' side of the booth and was running his hand along his lover's thigh, clearly demonstrating what he meant by 'goodnights'. "You know how lucky you are that I let you sleep the afternoon away instead of waking you up don't you? How are you feeling?" "Not lucky that you let me sleep, that's for sure. Mac, I'm fine. Honest. I think we're going to have to stay for at least one round of pool. Don't worry, if they're really good, we'll let them win so it doesn't get drawn out, and if they're really bad, it'll be just as quick. MacLeod, get your hands in your own lap, they're coming back. Damned horny pup. I'm not going to be able to leave this table for a while." "Hi guys, do you like the bar?" Tom walked up to the table with a woman in tow. Duncan and Methos were laughing at something, but Tom continued anyway, figuring it was a private joke, "B'Elanna, I'd like you to meet Duncan MacLeod and Methos. This is our chief engineer Lt. B'Elanna Torres. She's working on your ship." Both men were staring at B'Elanna. Never one to hold back her thoughts, B'Elanna was bristling as she watched the two men stare at her. "Is there something wrong?", she finally asked, looking back at them, daring them to answer. "I apologize for our rudeness, Lt. Torres," Duncan began as he stood up until B'Elanna seated herself. When he sat back down, he continued, "It's just that last time we were in the Alpha Quadrant, the Federation and the Klingon Empire were at war. It's a bit of a shock to us to meet a Klingon on Voyager. Especially a clearly half-human Klingon who's also a Starfleet Lt. and chief engineer. I'm happy the war ended with the Klingons and the Federation allied. I've always liked your people." "Call me B'Elanna, and my 'people' are the crew of Voyager. It's OK, I was staring too, I can't imagine going into stasis and coming out eighty-five years later. If we hadn't found you, you could have ended up in Borg space, believe me, you are incredibly lucky Harry spotted your ship." "The Borg? I don't think I've ever heard of them. Are they particularly aggressive?" Duncan was again realizing their lives had been complicated when Voyager found them. For the first time he understood just how alone Voyager was in the Delta Quadrant. He had been too preoccupied with his own predicament to actually consider Voyager's situation. They had been found, welcomed aboard the ship, given food and a place to stay. Until now, that was enough. Tom interrupted the conversation. He didn't want to talk about the threats to Voyager tonight. "All the information is in the computer. Hardly any of it's classified, so you can catch up on your twenty fourth century history tomorrow. We're way beyond their territory anyway. Right now the only threat to Voyager's crew is boredom." B'Elanna continued, ignoring Tom's interruption, "The space we're in now doesn't seem to have anything in it, but on the other side of this void are some very aggressive races. You're lucky you ran into us and not the Borg, the Hirogen, the Vidiians, or the Kazon." Commander Chakotay approached their table as B'Elanna was finishing her sentence and couldn't help joining the conversation, "B'Elanna, you've just raised an interesting point. If they made it this far, maybe the Delta Quadrant on the other side of this void is a much friendlier place than where we've been. I'll talk about it to the Captain in the morning. Are you having any luck accessing the sensor logs on their ship? They'll probably have some useful information on the Delta Quadrant." "Maybe from where they first entered the Quadrant, Commander, but that ship's been dead a long time. We'll know for sure when I get her powered up, but I'm not expecting to find anything." B'Elanna didn't mention her frustration with their outdated technology. Methos addressed B'Elanna for the first time since she joined them, "Are you trying to get our shuttle working again Lt.?" Methos wanted to know. If their ship wasn't repairable they were going to have to decide whether to stay on Voyager, assuming they were welcome, or ask to be left on a planet. "I have some very personal files, my diary actually, in the main computer core. I would appreciate it if you wouldn't access them." Seeing the engineer growing insulted, he continued "They're not marked personal so if you ran across them, you wouldn't know. I'm not suggesting you would read my diaries, I just wanted to let you know they're there. The entries are the only encrypted files in the computer so they should be easy to spot." Once B'Elanna realized her integrity was not being questioned, she relaxed. "Actually, Harry and I are having a Hell of a time even getting anything to work again. Almost all the shuttle's systems are shot. We spent twelve hours trying to get power to your ship before we finally gave up for the day. We're going to try again tomorrow. Could one of you help us in the shuttlebay in the morning?" "How about in the afternoon, B'Elanna, they've had a long day and they still need to adjust to being on Voyager. Their shuttle can wait a while longer," the Commander answered for their guests. He was sure MacLeod would feel obligated to do whatever was asked of him in return for their rescue, but it really could wait, and he wanted Duncan to know he wasn't needed immediately. "Chakotay, I've been thinking." "Oh, Oh, Helmboy's going to hurt himself" B'Elanna elbowed Tom in the ribs so he would know she was teasing him. Even though they were no longer intimate, she still enjoyed his company, and always liked it when she could one-up Voyager's resident trickster. "Come on B'Elanna, I'm serious. They've been out here for eighty-five years right?" Tom was looking around the table for confirmation before he began and when he saw the nodding heads, he continued, "They were only traveling at impulse speed, if its going to take us 65 years at warp 7 to get home, how did they get here so fast?" There was a stunned silence around the table before B'Elanna practically shouted, "Tom Paris, You. Are. A. Genius! Why didn't I think of that?!? What do you think Chakotay? Wormhole? I've got to get that ship powered up, I'm going back to work, see you guys tomorrow afternoon. I'll let you know if I come up with anything before then." The chief engineer was up, out of her seat, and out the door before the men could even process what she had said. "Tom Paris, she's right you are a genius, how could we have missed something so simple?! I'm going to help her tomorrow, can you give the tour by yourself? I'm going to go to my quarters to comm the Captain. You guys stay here and finish your drinks, Tom, come to my quarters when your done?" Chakotay was looking at his young lover and waiting for an answer. "Yeah Chak, I'll be there. Can you guys take a rain check on our pool game?" --- Tom was eyeing his new friends until Duncan answered. "No problem, we're kind of tired ourselves." Duncan knew the implication in his tone was not lost on the young pilot. "We have plenty of time to beat you at pool. See you tomorrow, Commander?" Duncan called the Commander back before he could get very far, "Chakotay, could you come and get me before you go to the shuttlebay tomorrow morning? I want to help. I practically built that ship so I'm probably the most qualified to get it going again. Tom can show Methos around tomorrow while we work. If that's okay with you of course." Duncan didn't know if he was pushing the limits with the Commander or not, so he was relieved when Chakotay looked pleased with his offer. "Tom, do you mind? With Duncan's help, I think we can get that ship powered up much faster." "Of course I don't mind Chak, I'll see you in your quarters in half an hour all right?" When Chakotay got up to leave the table, Tom grabbed his hand and gave him an intimate, light squeeze. Chakotay almost forgot why he was leaving without his lover. "Tom, I'll comm you after I've spoken to the Captain. Come over then. Goodnight gentlemen, Duncan, I'll come by your quarters at 0730. " --- "Finally alone and you don't have to be anywhere for seven hours at least." The two men were sitting on the couch with their feet up on the coffee table. Methos had stripped down to his boxers, but Duncan was still fully clothed. "Methos, are you sure you're all right, you still look pale." Methos leaned against his lover and stretched out to his full length pulling his legs onto the couch and putting his head in the Scotsman's lap, "Duncan, I always look pale, I feel fine, you lived through the same thing I did. How do you feel? Stop worrying so much. Mmmmm.... don't stop what you're doing though." Duncan continued to massage his lover's scalp, lightly pressing into the older man's temples before moving on to the sides of his neck. He found a few knots in the corded muscles and began gently kneading them out. Methos was beginning to relax under his hands and Duncan needed to know if his lover was being totally honest. "I'm not talking about that Methos, I want to know how you feel in here" Duncan was running his hands along Methos' skull again, but stopped when he finished his question. "Maybe the doctor can help. Medical technology really has changed in the past century. He's a hologram, a computer program. He won't betray doctor/patient confidentiality, I don't think he could, it's probably in his programming." Duncan continued his massage, letting Methos absorb his suggestion. "I'm worried about you, will you do it for me, if not for yourself?" "Mac, I feel better than I have in centuries. I can't explain it, maybe I was allergic to the Alpha Quadrant. Would you consider exploring the Delta Quadrant with me for say, oh, I don't know, the next millennia........or two? I still can't believe we can stop looking over our shoulders, I keep expecting to feel an immortal's signature, and then I remember where we are. It's starting to sink in though. When we were on Earth, I felt like a had a target on my back. Between my age and your enemies, I could never completely relax. I don't care if we ever go back to the Alpha Quadrant... Hey, I thought I told you not to stop." "Come on let's move to the bed, I'll give you a full massage." Massages were their favorite way to touch each other, and Duncan couldn't wait to be reacquainted with every inch of Methos' body. They moved into the bedroom and Methos climbed onto the bed face up, still wearing his boxers. "Uh, Uh, turn over, and take those off. I said a massage, and that's what you're getting." Duncan stripped to his briefs and walked over to the replicator, not sure exactly how to work the machine. He stood in front of it for a minute trying to figure out how to operate it. Methos saw him standing there and couldn't help laughing at him, "Just ask it for what you want. Everything on this ship seems to be voice activated, hurry up, I'm getting cold." Methos settled himself back onto his stomach as Mac began his massage. When Mac poured the warm massage oil onto the older immortal's back, Methos couldn't help the shudder that coursed through his body. "You like that huh?" Mac commented as he began to massage his lover. At first, he took it slowly, running long smooth strokes from shoulder to hip, distributing the oil over his lover's body, warming chilled skin with his touch and the warm liquid. Mac lost his worries over the older man while he concentrated on Methos' body. He could feel Methos melting under his hands. Long smooth strokes soon became a gentle kneading of tense muscles. Mac was once again awed by his lovers body. Methos was not a large man and didn't have a spare ounce of fat on him, rock hard muscles covered only by satin skin. Mac could see every muscle defined on his lover's back. Mac's own muscles were softened by very little extra flesh, but he was able to put a little more bulk on his frame than was Methos. Methos was not skinny, but lithe. Mac found himself wondering for perhaps the thousandth time if Methos was the model for more than one classical sculpture. He was loosing himself in Methos' body and powerful strokes meant to be healing were becoming soft caresses. He moved himself lower, settling his body between his partner's knees, cupping smooth, rounded buttocks in his hands. His hands lingered, his breath growing shorter as he caressed his lover. "Mac," Methos began dreamily, "have you grown an extra hand? I can feel two on my backside and one on my thigh." Methos rolled himself over, Mac still kneeling between his legs and looked into his lovers face, only to be met with darkened eyes and a look of wonder. "I've forgotten how beautiful you are, what happens between us. Can you feel the quickening?" Every time Mac touched his lover, the slight buzz of their shared immortality thrummed at the point of their connection. He had his hands on his lover's thighs, slowly moving upward, until he was cupping his erection in his hands. Methos arched his hips to meet his lover, until Mac broke the connection. "We're not finished with your massage yet." He ran his hands up his lover's chest, being careful not to torment his ticklish partner. He knew from long experience that Methos could abruptly change from wanton desire to fits of giggling if tickled. As Mac settled himself higher between Methos' legs, groins connecting through only a thin layer of soft cotton, he began to finger Methos' broad chest. One hand on each breast, he found little nubs standing to attention. He lingered, flicking each nipple with a thumb and then moved to wide shoulders, never once letting his eyes leave the gold-green gaze returning his own. He knew he was tormenting his partner, but trust built over centuries allowed him to continue at his own pace. As he kneaded the muscles of Methos' shoulders, Mac could hear his lover purring. That soft sound coming from Methos' throat was enough to convince Mac to end his slow, sweet torture. He gently lowered himself onto his lover's body and captured Methos' mouth in his own. He reacquainted himself with the once familiar lips, not reigning in his passion for even a moment. Methos returned the hungry kisses while arching his back, connecting every inch of their bodies. Duncan continued to grind his hips into Methos' loins, bringing himself closer and closer to the edge of release only through kissing and the melding of partially clothed bodies. "Methos," he finally breathed, pulling away from their kiss, "It's been too long, I'm not going to last." He pulled away to calm himself and eyed the body beneath him. Before Methos could reply, Duncan had crawled down Methos' body and turned, face to groin with his lover. Methos pulled Duncan's hips to his own face. "Hey Mac, do me a favor, let go when you're about to come, remember the unfortunate accident last time we tried this? Ohhhh, never mind." Mac had swallowed Methos whole while he was talking, knowing he wouldn't be coherent enough to talk much longer. Methos quickly stripped Mac's briefs from his body, getting hit in the face with his lovers cock for his trouble as it sprung from its binding. When he wrapped his hands around MacLeod's hips and began licking the length of his partner, Mac quickened the pace of his suckling on Methos' shaft. Mac couldn't help himself from pumping into Methos' mouth as his lover's ministrations became more and more forceful. He needn't have worried, Methos was himself fucking Mac's own mouth. Both men had long ago learned the technique the other preferred. Methos licking, nibbling, feathering his tongue along the underside of Mac, alternating taking in the length of him with suckling just the tip, running his tongue over the small slit he found. Mac was taking his lover as deep as he could, opening his throat while Methos drove himself further and further into MacLeod's mouth. Mac let go of Methos' hips, reaching around his lover to grasp his rear, parting the halves, feeling for the tiny opening. When he pressed a finger into the tight channel, Methos arched himself even further into his lover's mouth. Duncan was surprised to no longer feel Methos' mouth working its wonder on him, until he felt the tremors rushing through the older man's body. He could hear the soft moans coming from the other man, growing in intensity until they became shouts. Methos had wrapped his hands around his partner's waist, burying his face into Mac's groin. With one last thrust, Methos' emptied his seed into his lover, his screams muffled as his face was buried in Mac's groin. As he was swallowing MacLeod felt his own orgasm rushing to the surface. Between Methos' shouts vibrating along the length of him and the face nuzzling his balls, still licking, he erupted with a shout, shooting his load over his own belly and onto his partner. They lay wrapped around each other, recovering from the force of their coupling until Mac squirmed back to the top of the bed. Methos still looked dazed as Mac began licking his own cum from his lover's body. When Methos could finally move, he returned the favor, then settled into his lover's arms. --- "So Tom, what do you think of them?" Chakotay asked as soon as the pilot walked into the room. Chakotay had really enjoyed the two men's company, but Tom had seemed unusually quiet all night. He needed to know nothing was wrong. Tom began stripping out of his clothing immediately and went into the bathroom. "Chak, I like them. Especially Methos. I have a weird feeling about them though, it's something I can't describe. I don't even know if there are words for it. I need another shower, be right back." Tom hadn't bothered shutting the bathroom door, so Chakotay settled in to watch his lover's routine. Tom was standing at the sink, clad only in his Starfleet issue gray underwear. He watched as Tom first brushed his teeth and then picked up Chakotay's sonic shaver. Tom met his eye, lifting the razor, silently asking Chakotay's permission. As Chakotay nodded to the younger man, he was thinking about just how easily Tom seemed to fit into his life. Had it only been a month since their first date? Chakotay had never become intimately involved with someone he had know for so long before. , he mused. He turned his attention back to Tom who was fiddling with the temperature controls in the shower. The young man stripped off the last of his clothing and stood with his back to his lover for a moment. Chakotay knew Tom was enjoying displaying himself, so he didn't take his eyes off him. Tom slowly turned around, and stared at the Commander, totally comfortable with his nudity. Chakotay let his eyes roam down the slim body slowly, taking in the visual feast piece by piece. He lingered on the semi-erect shaft, peeking out of the nest of dark curls before continuing his gaze down the long legs before repeating his study in reverse. "You know, I think there's room in here for two." Tom was still standing outside the shower, waiting for Chakotay to respond. "I thought you'd never ask. I didn't think you really needed another shower, Tom." Chakotay was in the bathroom and had stripped off all of his clothes in an instant. "I didn't know you were an exhibitionist, I like it." "And I didn't know you were a voyeur Chak. I like you watching me, but I like you touching me even more." And Tom stepped into the shower without looking at his lover again. "Come on in here Chak, you can wash my back. Then I'll wash you." --- "Hey Duncan?", Methos was still wrapped in his lover's arms. MacLeod was falling asleep, but Methos wanted to talk about something that had been bothering him all evening. When Mac grunted in response, Methos took his lover's grunt as an invitation to continue. "I think we should tell Paris what we are." When Duncan looked down at him in surprise, Methos continued, "I don't mean tell him what he is, but we should tell him about us. Everything, the game, how long we've been alive, how we can be killed, everything." Duncan sat up against the wall at the head of the bed and looked at his lover. "Just a few hours ago, you thought we should avoid him, what brought this on Methos? I'm not saying I disagree with you, I just want to know why." "I've been spending too much bloody time with you that's why! Before, I would have said keep him in the dark. That way, if we do end up spending the next sixty years on this ship with him, he won't know anything, and won't be tempted to take our heads. There is no Holy Ground on Voyager that I know of." Methos was staring intently at his lover trying to see if Duncan was following his reasoning. "Exactly. That's why I agreed with you earlier. Why did you change your mind?" Mac thought he knew the answer, but he wanted to hear Methos' explanation. "When I started having doubts, I thought it was because he's a nice kid. Then I started thinking about it, and it's the only fair thing to do. If he knows about us, he won't be so surprised when he has his first death. It's what you did with Richie. It's what I wished had been done for me." He was hopping that Duncan knew what he was trying to say without having to say the rest out loud. Duncan had an idea of the hell that Methos' first two centuries of immortality had been, and he knew Methos would not want to go into it again. "When Voyager returns to the Alpha Quadrant, he will have to deal with other immortals. The sooner we start teaching him the better." "Are you saying you want to take the man on as a student Methos? You haven't had a student in almost five hundred years," since Byron was the part left unsaid, "It could be years before his first death. Are you really willing to stay here that long?" "I don't know Duncan, I'd like to get to know him first, find out more about him and the crew of this ship before I decide anything. What do you think?" "I think for a man who wanted to escape the game and retire, you're putting yourself back into it for someone you don't even know. Is it because of Richie?" Mac knew he was cutting too close to the quick on this one, but he had to make Methos really think about what he was suggesting. "Would you believe me if I said no? It's the truth, Mac you know I have no problem letting the past be the past. I'd like to tell him tomorrow, if I think he can handle it. Are you okay with that? Do you want to be there?" "No Methos, I'll let you make the decision. Tread lightly. Please don't kill yourself to prove it to him. If he doesn't believe you, no dramatic demonstrations, Promise?" "Mac, I'm not the one who does foolish things like that. Goodnight, try not to wake me when you get up, I plan on sleeping in." And with that parting shot, Methos put his head on Mac's chest and tried to sleep. Sleep finally claimed him when he heard his lover's even breathing and light snore. --- When Commander Chakotay stepped outside his quarters at 0730 the following morning, he found Duncan outside his own quarters talking with the security detail. "Good morning Commander, I thought I'd wait outside for you, Methos is still sleeping, and he is not a morning person. " "Neither is Tom, I can relate." Chakotay turned to address the security detail, "Mr. MacLeod will be with me the rest of the day. If Methos gets up before Lt. Paris comes by, ask him to wait for the Lt. Once Methos is with the Lt., you're dismissed." He turned to Duncan with a huge grin on his face. "Duncan, we're going to brave Neelix's cooking this morning, I hope you're ready." As they walked into the mess hall, Chakotay caught the Captain's eye and steered Duncan toward the serving line. "Let's join the Captain for breakfast, I'm sure she'll have some questions for us." When they made their way through the Mess Hall, Duncan could feel most of the diners watching him. "Good morning Duncan, Chakotay, I heard you put in an appearance at Sandrine's last night. How are you adjusting to Voyager so far?" the Captain once again couldn't help but notice how attractive the man sitting across from her was. Not many people knew about the Commander and the Lt. yet either. That new relationship probably wouldn't be too popular either. "Very well so far, Captain. But, I must admit, this breakfast crowd is a little unnerving." Duncan looked around the room again only to find many sets of eyes on him. Captain Janeway saw him looking around and tried to explain. "I'm sorry Mr. MacLeod, new people are not an everyday occurrence on Voyager and the crew is intrigued with your adventure. Everyone will get used to you soon enough. Do you think you'll be able to get your ship powered up today?" Captain Janeway had found herself tossing all night long, unable to sleep after speaking to the Commander. If these men had come through a wormhole that allowed them to reach this far into the Delta Quadrant in only eighty-five years at impulse power, they could be home sooner than she had dared hope. The crew had their share of disappointments in the past four years, but this felt like the real thing. It wasn't the Holy Grail of an instant return home that they had been seeking, but it would cut their trip at least in half if Tom's theory panned out. "Commander, where are Lt. Paris and Methos?" "They're sleeping in Captain, Duncan has offered to help with their ship, and Tom is going to give Methos a tour once they're both up." "That was awfully generous of the two of you. Knowing Mr. Paris, the tour will start after lunch." Duncan was laughing with the Captain, "Knowing Methos, it will be more like dinnertime. You know, the two of them really seem to be getting along well. Methos is usually pretty reserved, actually shy, when he first meets people. Tom seems to be drawing him out. Maybe it's because they're both pilots." "Captain, maybe Tom could give Methos flight instruction on our shuttles, we could always use another pilot." Chakotay figured it would be safest to assume the men would be staying aboard Voyager. "Captain, Commander, I wanted to talk to you about that. I was going to wait a few more days. But, since you've brought it up, maybe its best to talk now. I want to thank you for making us welcome, but, we cannot continue to stay on this ship without contributing. I know Voyager is under rationing, and if this breakfast is any indication, good food is hard to find in the Delta Quadrant. You don't need two extra mouths to feed. I don't know what we can offer you, but we are both willing to work." Captain Janeway was surprised by Duncan's offer. The two men were not twenty- four hours past a nightmarish ordeal and he was volunteering to be put to work. "Duncan, I really appreciate the offer, but right now, there's not much to be done. Wouldn't you like to rest and recover before we try to find work for you?" "Captain, I am fully recovered. I am not an idle man, I think I'll go crazy pretty quickly if I don't have something to do. I'm sure we'll access our flight logs today, and then I'll be ready to be assigned somewhere. I understand this is a Starfleet ship, and I have not gone through Starfleet Academy, but I have been in various armies over my lifetime. Methos is another story. You don't happen to need a language teacher or an historian aboard Voyager do you?" Duncan knew Methos was more than either of those things, but he also knew the older immortal would not agree to putting on the Starfleet uniform. Maybe his own contribution would be enough for the two of them. If they were going to stay on board Voyager they would have to contribute and MacLeod knew it. "Duncan, I want to thank you for your offer, I'll schedule a meeting with Commander Tuvok for you. He'll assign you somewhere. Did you also say you're an engineer?" "Aye, but on technology that is very outdated, I don't know how much help I'd be there. I can fix my own ship, but I'm not sure about anything beyond that." "Well, for now, that's your assignment, we'll worry about the rest later. We'll let Tom teach Methos to fly our shuttles. How long has Methos been a pilot?" "He was at Kittyhawk in the early twentieth century, so I'd say he's been a pilot as long as people have been flying. He really is quite a good pilot Captain, I think he'd enjoy learning to fly your shuttles. The only obstacle is that he won't wear a uniform. He has been in armies in his lifetime, but he swore he'd never do it again." Duncan felt he could tell the Captain and the Commander no more without betraying a confidence he held dear. "I think we could handle that, Duncan. Captain, could we take Tom off bridge duty for the rest of our time in this void? He really isn't needed there. He can evaluate Methos' performance and we can decide then." Chakotay knew Tom would be thrilled to run sims all day rather than fidgeting through his bridge shift for the next three weeks, so he felt comfortable making the offer for his lover. "I'll take him off the bridge, but we'll still need him in sickbay. The Doctor needs more and more down time lately. I'm beginning to worry about the degradation in his program again. I don't know what we'll do if we loose him, I've ordered him to only activate for emergencies until B'Elanna can come up with a way to keep him going. He's not thrilled, but he understands the situation." , the Captain couldn't help but wonder. She was sure the Doctor's problems were connected to when the Hirogen had control of Voyager, but until B'Elanna found a solution, he needed to be reserved for life threatening emergencies only. "Captain, I think I just found a job for Methos. And it wouldn't involve his having to be in the military. He has been a doctor you know. Actually three times." Duncan couldn't help but wonder if Tom and Methos had been fated to meet. He didn't usually believe in fate, but he had seen too many coincidences in his long life to totally discount the idea. "The last time he was a doctor was in the twenty-third century, so it might take him some time to adjust. He enjoys the work and he has a solid base of knowledge." "Well if he agrees, I have no problem with assigning him to sickbay. He and Lt. Paris can study together. Now, if you'll excuse me I have to get to the bridge. Contact me as soon as you can access your ships sensor logs." --- Tom and Methos actually ended up sleeping only until 1100 hours or so, leaving them plenty of time to eat lunch and then tour Voyager. Tom showed Methos all of his favorite places including the Airponics bay, Nav forward, stellar cartography, and the bridge. Captain Janeway was surprised to see them on the bridge right after lunch and used the opportunity to ask them both if they were comfortable with the positions assigned them at breakfast. Methos was pleased to be able to contribute and was looking forward to learning how to pilot Voyager's shuttlecraft. Tom didn't seem to mind the idea of spending whole shifts in sickbay if Methos was going to be there running interference between him and the Doctor. With that settled they were on their way to the next stop on the tour. Tom had gotten permission from the Captain to use the holodeck even though it wasn't his scheduled time. He enjoyed showing his new friend some of the programs he had made. Methos was suitably impressed with the holodeck technology and couldn't help noticing Tom's programming skills. Their next stop was to visit Seven in cargo bay two. Tom wanted Methos to meet the ex- Borg, and he was happy the visit went well. As they finished their tour, Tom informed Methos they would be eating dinner in the mess hall. They had skipped breakfast, and had replicated sandwiches for lunch. It would be Methos' first sample of Neelix's cooking and Tom couldn't wait to see the look on his new friend's face when he got a taste of Delta Quadrant food. Chakotay and Duncan were still hard at work on the ancient shuttle, and decided to work through dinner. Tom commed Harry and asked if he would meet them for dinner. They agreed to meet in the mess hall at 1800 hours, Harry telling Tom he needed to talk to him. When Tom and Methos entered the mess hall, Harry was already there and saving seats for them. They made it through the line quickly, with Tom choosing the blue entree and Methos the green quivering one. "Are you sure this is food Tom?" Methos didn't look exactly thrilled with the quivering mass of green goo on his plate. "It looks more like waste from the warp core than dinner." Harry started laughing at Methos, finally choking out "Whatever you do, don't look at it, and drink lots of coffee to wash it down. Welcome to Voyager. If you weren't sure you were lost in the Delta Quadrant before, Neelix's cooking will probably have you convinced." "I don't think I can eat this, what do you do when you run out of replicator rations?" If this was an example of the food they were expected to eat, staying on Voyager might not be such a good idea after all. "Tom here plays pool for ration points, stealing them from his shipmates. I just hoard mine and eat this food for as long as I can stand. Then, when I think I'd die if I ate even one more bite of this stuff, I splurge on good old- fashioned Earth food. Everyone finds their own way to cope, you'll adjust." "I just hope I adjust before I starve to death." Methos was looking down his nose at the food on his plate, pushing it around with his fork. "This 'food' looks like snail slime. What is it?" Harry didn't trust Tom not to tell Methos that it really wasn't animal excretions, so he tried to reassure him, "It's some kind of sea plant we found on our last food gathering trip. It really is nutritious if you can manage to eat it." The table was silent for a few minutes as each man played with his food. Methos finally took a bite of his meal and ungraciously spit it back out onto his plate. "I'm sorry," he muttered in apology, "reflex reaction." "You know, you have the same look on your face that Tom gets when he looks at his dinner. Tom, maybe it wasn't such a good idea for you to be the tour guide. He's already picking up your manners. Next thing we know, he'll be challenging people to friendly games of pool, and winning ration points" Tom managed to look insulted "I do not spit food onto my plate, and I do not steal replicator rations from my shipmates, I win them fair and square. You're just jealous that I always win, and you always loose. I thought you were a good sport Har," Tom knew he was laying it on a bit thick, but he and Harry had always been able to tease each other without either of them actually getting insulted. Harry decided to do a little teasing of his own, "So Tom, what were you doing coming out of the Commander's quarters three hours after he left this morning? It's all over the ship you know." Harry wasn't expecting to be showered with a mouthful of Tom's coffee and didn't manage to duck in time. Tom was still choking on the small amount he swallowed the wrong way, and Methos was clapping him on the back. The three made quite a scene in their corner of the mess hall before they were able to get themselves under control. "Hey!!!! I thought you just said you don't spit at the dinner table." "It's your own fault for ambushing me, you could have found a better time to bring it up. What's the reaction been like?" Tom wasn't as upset he thought he'd be when the news came, just surprised. He didn't really care what everybody else thought about his relationship, but he was curious. "Actually, people are talking more about Methos and Duncan than they are you and the Commander. Sorry, but you're not the most exciting news on Voyager today. New people aboard are allot more interesting than you finally getting together with Chakotay. I wonder who won the pool. I lost after you're first date." Harry had a gleam in his eye as he told Tom about the fictitious betting pool. "Betting Pool!!!! Harry I thought you were my friend, how could you?!" He thought he'd let Tom stew a bit before letting him know there wasn't actually a pool. It was always fun to needle Tom, and Harry thought he had the upper hand for once. "Come on Tom, everyone's bored, think of crew moral, don't be so selfish. Everyone just needed a little diversion." "Well Harry, I think the next diversion is going to be a pool involving you and a certain ex-Borg I know." Harry had gone white under his normally tan complexion, looking as if he would faint. So much for the momentary advantage. Tom wouldn't do that to him, would he? "Tom, there is no betting pool about you and Chakotay, really, I promise. Until this morning, no one had any idea." "That doesn't matter Har, you've given me a great idea. Mm, I wonder how many people would want in?" Methos jumped into the conversation "Harry, I'm impressed, you and Seven? Count me in Tom. I'll have to see them together before I can make my wager though." "Tom, come on it was just a joke. Methos, don't let him drag you into this, please." Harry had begun to sweat and was squirming in his seat, clearly believing the two men were about to initiate a betting pool based on his sex- life. What had he gotten himself into? Methos took pity on the young ensign before Tom could needle him any more "Harry, I wouldn't do that to Seven, I met her earlier in the day, and I don't believe she'd understand the joke. We'll just have to think of something else, right Thomas?" What was the Captain thinking assigning Tom to guide Methos. Harry looked across the table to the two of them. They had identical grins on their faces. "You two aren't going to gang up on me are you?" Harry looked genuinely worried as he waited for an answer from Tom, "We've been friends a long time Tom, I know how you operate, and you're even worse with encouragement." "Even though you've been ignoring me lately, Har, you're still my best friend. We've been assigned to sickbay full time starting the day after tomorrow, and I know a certain doctor who needs loosening up. Don't worry, you're safe. For now." The three men finally were able to choke down their dinner and decided to meet later in the holodeck for a 'friendly' game of pool. Methos was determined to garner more ration points for himself. He found out that even the Captain played pool for rations, so it must be allowed. He was going to have to take it easy on everyone at first so that people would actually play with him. If he destroyed the competition, his newfound way to more edible food would soon be lost. When he and Tom parted company after dinner, they agreed to meet at Sandrine's at 2100 hours. Methos was pleased that Tom was a night owl as well. They didn't have to report for duty in sick bay until the day after the next, so they planned to make it a late night. Methos was happy to get a chance to learn more about Tom during the few hours they were apart. He liked what he had seen of the young man so far, but decided to check into his background a little further before entrusting him with any more knowledge about Duncan and himself. --- Duncan walked into his temporary quarters knowing Methos would be there when he saw the security team at the door before he felt his lover's unique presence. He found his partner of the past four hundred years rooted in front of the computer terminal. Duncan wished for once that they couldn't feel each other coming. He wanted to surprise his lover with his presence once in a while. Methos was never distracted enough for Duncan to sneak in a surprise embrace. Without even looking up from his terminal, Methos started talking, "I thought you'd never call it a day. You've been at it for twelve hours. Were you able to get the Darius running again?" "No, we weren't. We've gone through every system, and managed to repair most of the damage. We're starting on the warp core tomorrow morning. How was your day? Did you learn anything interesting?" "Actually I have. Did you know we've missed a couple of wars while we were out of it? Lt. Torres was right, I'm glad Voyager found us before we got any further into the Delta Quadrant. Could you imagine being assimilated by the Borg and living forever? Did Chakotay fill you in on what Voyager has been through in the past four years?" "He started from the beginning and told me everything, he's quite the storyteller. Methos, do you want to stay on Voyager? I don't think the Darius will be space worthy even after we manage to get her powered up. Maybe we can settle on a planet somewhere?" "I'd like to stay Mac, if you do. I like it here. I like Tom, and I've decided to fill him in tonight. We're meeting in Sandrine's at 2100 hours. I've been digging into his background, Chakotay was right, he has had some rough spots. Did you know this crew is not totally Starfleet?" "Yeah, Chakotay told me everything. I'm impressed with how they've managed to integrate. I had no idea they used to be separate crews. That alone tells me of the honor and commitment these people have for each other. I'd like to stay too, I'm glad you agree." "Oh, and Mac, thanks for volunteering my services to the Captain." "You're not mad are you? I knew if we decided to stay, we had to work. " Duncan had joined Methos at the computer terminal and began to rub his shoulders, attempting to convey his sincerity through his touch . "If you don't want to work in sickbay, I'd understand. I knew you'd want to fly though, maybe that will be enough to make you useful." "I've been thinking about what you said last night. If I'm working in sickbay, maybe I can do a little research on myself. I'm not really worried, but I'd like some answers." Methos felt Mac bend over and was a little surprised by the kiss planted on his head. "Thank you, I wasn't sure if you'd agree to become part of the medical staff." "Why not, I don't think the Captain would appreciate some of my other skills." "Oh, and which of your other skills would you be referring to, old man?" Methos spun his chair around, reached up and pulled Mac into his lap, claiming his mouth. When he released the captured lips he was smiling at his partner. "Oh, I don't know, something like that?" "I think she would appreciate that skill Methos, but please, reserve it for me." "Hey Mac?" "Hmmmm?" "You stink." "Thanks, I've been working all day while you've been socializing. I'm going to take a shower and try to get some sleep. Do you need me to come with you tonight?" "No, I can handle it. I want to finish going through his records though, there's some pretty interesting stuff in there. Do you remember Admiral Paris?" "Methos, how could I forget William Paris. He's the one who sent us on the fools errand that brought us here." "Well, he's Tom's great-grandfather, or was. He died not long after we left." "Are you going to share that with him too?" "Probably not, I've found no mention of our mission, so I guess it's still classified. I don't think anyone needs to know we weren't just running medical equipment to the colonies. Relations with the Romulans have stabilized in the past century. I don't think anyone needs to know that a high ranking Starfleet Admiral was sending arms shipments to the Neutral Zone, do you?" "Good point. What about the Captain, I don't think she would appreciate finding out through another source. What if they find something on the Darius?" "Isn't that why you've offered to help fix it? I've taught you a thing or two about subterfuge over the years haven't I?" "Yes, but I still think we should tell her. It might make her feel better about us to know we've once worked for Starfleet." "OK, I'll handle Tom, you handle the Captain, but Duncan......be careful. She just might not appreciate having two former spies on her ship." While Duncan was showering, Methos continued to go over Tom's service record. He was a little disconcerted to find out about Tom's ejection from Starfleet and prison stay after the Maquis, but was reassured after reading his service record aboard Voyager. Methos understood that most people had made wrong choices in their lives, and he was more concerned with the type of man Tom was now. He knew he was the last person who should judge a man by what he had been. By the time Methos was finished reviewing Tom's service record, Duncan had gone to bed. Before he left, he went to his lover and kissed him goodnight, stopping to grab a bottle out of Duncan's Scotch reserve for the evening. He knew he'd need it. --- Tom and Methos ran the pool table the entire evening. Sandrine's was crowded and Methos was meeting allot of the crew. It seemed as if every person in Sandrine's challenged them at pool that night just to be able to meet the enigmatic new man. Most of the women and some of the men were fighting to flirt with him. After the seventh or eighth round of pool, Tom saw the Captain come into the bar. Harry saw her also and couldn't help but challenge the two men, "My new partner has just arrived. Prepare to loose the table." "You think so Ensign? And who would this partner be?" Methos had missed the Captain's entrance and wondered who Harry was talking about. "You'll know in a minute." Harry walked off, only to return with the Captain in tow a moment later. "Hi Captain, the young Ensign here is convinced you'll be his salvation tonight, care for a wager?" "Methos, I don't wager unless I know something about the competition. Harry what do you think?" "He's about as good as Tom, the two of them together are very good. But, not as good as you. They've been cleaning up tonight and have won enough rations to last a couple of weeks. They're getting pretty smug. I think we should liberate some of those rations for ourselves." Tom took his partner aside before Methos decided to wager all the rations they had earned and informed him of the Captain's pool shark status. But Methos just laughed him off, "Don't worry Tom, just watch and learn." "Captain, let's play for three out of five so you get a chance to warm up. Tom and I seem to be pretty flush right now, so how about we settle on a full week's worth of rations as the wager?" Tom decided Methos was crazy, "Come on Methos, let's just play for one day's worth each," he was pretty happy with the status of his ration account and did not plan on losing what he had won. Before Methos could retract the wager, the Captain stepped in, "Tom, I think Methos has the right idea, a week's worth it is." The first round was evenly matched with Captain Janeway breaking and quickly sinking three of her and Harry's striped balls. Tom was next and quickly sank two balls before he lost his turn to Harry, who didn't manage to keep his turn past one shot. "Sorry Captain," he apologized. Methos was next and took two of he and Tom's easier shots off the table before he missed his third shot by a hairsbreadth. The table went to the Captain and she was not pleased to be behind by a ball. She cleared the table of all but one of her balls before finally losing her turn on a tricky bank maneuver. Tom was in rare form and managed to clear all but two of his own solids off the table, unfortunately leaving Harry with a clear shot on the only striped ball left. Harry easily made the shot, but missed the eight ball entirely. He managed to look suitably embarrassed before Methos began. Methos easily sank his and Tom's remaining stripes and set up his shot on the eight ball. Tom couldn't believe he was finally going to beat the Captain, maybe Methos was right after all. He was daydreaming about what he would eat for the next week, and missed watching Methos fail to sink the eight ball on a very easy shot. He could only stand there and watch as Captain Janeway calmly sank the eight ball into a side pocket. "Well gentlemen, that was invigorating, ready for the next round?" "Captain, I believe you're gloating." Tom moaned at his Captain as she chalked up her cue and Harry racked the balls. The second round went much the same as the first, but Tom and Methos barely eked out a victory. "I'm going to get drinks for everyone before we start the next game. Tom do you mind if I break?" Methos was looking so sure of himself that Tom agreed. By the time Methos returned with drinks for all of the players, there was a large crowd gathered around the table, word of the wager and the closeness of the first two rounds having spread through the bar. The Captain was smiling as she watched Methos get ready to break. She wasn't smiling after he sank the fourth solid ball in a row. She watched him transform from the slouched over, unassuming man that started the game and into the lithe graceful man who was clearing her table. When he sank the six and seventh ball in a row on a combination shot, she was seething. Everyone else watching was standing there mouths agape, taking in their unbeatable Captain being best by someone who wasn't even a member of their crew. Methos took a long sip of his bear in what Harry was sure was a dramatic pause before going back to the table. Methos sank the eight ball on a double bank shot, avoiding all of the striped balls on the table, bowing at the crowd as the black ball slid quietly into a corner pocket. Captain Janeway was the first to speak, "It looks like I've been had." She resigned herself to eating in the mess hall for the next week and took a seat at the closest table. Tom looked to be seething at his partner. "Why did you do that?" "What are you angry about, we just saved ourselves from the mess hall for a week?" Methos was surprised by Tom's outburst until he began to understand. "From the look on your face, I see you get it now. We could have saved ourselves from the mess hall for months, now no one will ever play with us. A little finesse would have been nice Methos." "Sorry, I got carried away. Duncan says I have a flair for the dramatic. Will you go get us another round, I'd like to talk to the Captain for a moment." Tom walked away muttering about Methos ruining a good thing while Methos went to join the Captain at her table. "Methos, I should have known better than to play pool with you after you suggested a week's worth of rations as the wager. I can usually smell a con a light year away. How did you get so good at pool?" "Captain, let's just say I've had a lot of time for practice and leave it at that. Tom's pretty upset, he thinks we could have had people going for months." "He's right. I'm glad you didn't though. Are you starting to feel comfortable on Voyager? Chakotay says Duncan is a godsend, they could never have gotten as far as they have on repairs to your ship without him." "Ah yes, Duncan MacLeod, the universe's oldest living Boyscout." "Boyscout?" "Just an old expression. Captain, I am going to tell Lt. Paris about me and Duncan." "Why Methos? He doesn't have security clearance." "He doesn't need security clearance to be told about immortals Captain, just about the war. I won't tell him any of that. We don't even tell most of our own kind about the war, especially the young ones." "You still haven't told me why you want to tell him anything." "We're going to be working quite closely, and I don't want him to be surprised if anything should happen. Can you imagine what he'd think if he saw a cut heal on me before his eyes? Duncan and I discussed it, and he would like to tell Harry and B'Elanna as well. All of your senior staff will be aware of our 'condition'. We would like to be on away teams in the future, and it would be best for the senior staff to know. We wanted to ask you before we told them. Is that acceptable?" "It's fine with me. I think it's a good idea to let the senior staff know, I was going to ask your permission to tell them in a few weeks if you decided to stay on Voyager." I'm going to tell Tom tonight Captain, and I'll tell Duncan he can let B'Elanna and Harry know tomorrow. Thanks for the game, you're a good sport." "Just don't expect me to play with you again unless you're giving me lessons. I like my rations in my account, thank you. Is Duncan as good a pool player as you?" "No he's horrible, just don't play darts with him." "Thanks for the tip, I'm calling it a night. Try not to shock Tom too much when you tell him." "Night Captain." Methos picked up his bottle of Scotch and went to find Tom. --- Tom sat by himself in his quarters after Methos left, not quite believing what he had been told. How could Chakotay have kept this from him? He didn't believe Methos in the beginning, then when he pointed out that no one could have actually survived 'stasis' without a stasis tube for 85 years, Tom felt pretty stupid. How could he have been so dumb to believe that story. Probably because anything else was unimaginable he consoled himself. Then to find out Duncan was eight hundred years old. Chopping off people's heads with swords?! What a way to live. Tom stopped himself from asking Methos what he would do if he and Duncan were the only two left at the end. He really didn't want to know. Methos had saved the best for last. Tom didn't believe him, and made a joke about Methos not looking a day over 25 when he found out Methos was 6000 years old. Methos knew Tom didn't believe him when he began to tell his story, but the more he told, the more the young pilot began to believe. Methos knew Tom wanted to believe, but just couldn't bring himself to that point. So Methos broke his promise to Duncan. Well, not exactly his promise. He didn't kill himself, but he did cut his arm. Tom couldn't believe it when Methos pulled out a knife and cut himself. He thought he was going to pass out from the shock when he saw the blue energy surge around the cut, healing the wound in front of his eyes. He couldn't talk for a few minutes, just managed to gulp down his drink in silence. Methos was sitting across from him grinning Methos had finally left him alone with his thoughts after an hour and promised to meet him in the morning. It was past two when Tom could stand it no longer and went to Chakotay's quarters. He hoped the Commander would not be angry with him for coming over in the middle of the night, but he really needed to discuss Methos' revelation with someone. Methos had told him that the Captain, Tuvok, Chakotay, and the Doctor all knew about he and Duncan, but had to keep it to themselves. Tom wasn't angry with Chakotay for not telling him. He was, however, impressed with the big man's ability to keep a secret. He knew he couldn't have done it. He needed to talk to Chakotay now, it couldn't wait. He grabbed a fresh uniform, and a few toiletries before heading to the Commander's quarters. When he arrive on the Commander's deck, he remembered the security guard watching Methos and Duncan who unfortunately were in the quarters next door to Chakotay. But it was too late he'd been seen. Luckily the detail had been reduced to one man. "Sooooo, Lt. what brings you here at this hour?" Jamison was practically leering at Tom when he confronted him. Tom knew immediately who had been spreading the gossip, "None of your business asshole. I really appreciate you spreading my personal life around the ship. If I were you I'd keep an eye on tomorrow's postings to the ship's message boards, Lt. You just might find your name there." "At least it won't say I'm fucking a commanding officer. . Are you trying to get promoted? I've heard you're pretty talented in the bedroom, trying to capitalize on all your assets huh? Once you had your fun with the Jr. staff, you just moved on to bigger game? I just never figured the Commander for a fag, what's ammatter, Paris, the Captain turn you down?" Tom knew Jamison was just trying to upset him and it was working. He got right in the Lt.'s face before responding. Tom could feel his temper getting out of control and was barely restraining himself from pounding the smile off of the man's face. "One more word and you are on report for insubordination." "I don't think so Lt. Jr. grade Paris. I outrank you." The last thing Tom remembered before finding himself rubbing his knuckles and looking at the man on the ground was Jamison laughing at him. He didn't have much time to think about his memory lapse before the yellow shirted Lt. threw him into the wall, and began to pound him in the abdomen. Tom head butted the other man, then threw him to the ground, pouncing on top of him. --- Methos was still awake when he heard voices in the corridor. He could feel Tom's weak pre-immortal signature and went outside to meet him. He figured the Lt. wanted to ask him more questions and the security guard was keeping him out. He wanted to let Tom know he could come by anytime if he needed to, so he went outside to tell the guard it was all right. When the door to his quarters opened he saw Tom straddling the security guard, pounding the man's head into the deck. Methos ran over to the two men, now rolling around the corridor and tried to pull Tom off the other man. Methos had Tom off the security guard, but the other man wasn't quite done yet and sucker punched Tom in the face while his arms were pinned. Methos let Tom go, and he fell to the ground. Methos wasn't thinking too straight himself by now and punched the guard in the jaw, knocking him backward, but not out. The corridors began to fill with sleepy crewmembers who had heard the noise. When Duncan stepped into the corridor, he couldn't believe it was Methos that was fighting. Chakotay stepped out a moment later, saw Tom on the ground and went to him. Duncan was trying to get Methos' attention, knowing better to approach the man from behind. Jamison ran at Methos, but was deflected with an ancient judo move and ended up on his ass. Three more security guards came running into the corridor and before Methos could jump on Jamison again, they stunned him. Duncan didn't know Methos was only stunned and began to move towards him but before he took his second step he found three phasers turned on him. He didn't take another step. Tom and the security guard were getting to their feet, looking to go another round, but were also stopped by phasers trained on them. Duncan was barely controlling his own rage as he looked at Methos sprawled bonelessly on the floor. "Why'd you shoot him?!? Take your phasers off me, I'm just going to check on him." None of the security personnel were listening to him though. Chakotay finally motioned for them to drop their phasers and Duncan went over to check on Methos. The older man was looking up at him, eyes tiny slits. He whispered up to Duncan, "Shit that hurt." "Quiet, act like you've been stunned," Duncan kneeled down to Methos on the ground and pretended to check his pulse. "Commander, can I take him into our quarters, and put him in bed until he comes out of it?" Chakotay was still half asleep, and was trying to figure out what the Hell was going on. "Lt.'s," he said addressing the two combatants, "I want you in there too, security as well." He addressed the security guards while gesturing at the two Lt.'s "If they make another move for each other, stun them." Tom's very sore jaw dropped open when his lover told the security detail to shoot him. He followed the rest of the crowd into the guest's quarters and sat on the couch. He wasn't seated a minute before he ran into the bathroom and vomited everywhere. He sat there for a moment in his own vomit before anyone came to look for him. It was Tuvok who found him slumped against the wall in a pool of his own blood and surrounded by vomit. The next thing he knew he was in sickbay looking up at the Doctor. "Ah Mr. Paris, you're awake." "How long have I been out, and what truck hit me?" Chakotay stepped into his field of vision, followed closely by Tuvok. The Vulcan addressed him first, "Lt. Paris, Lt. Jamison has stated him that you attacked him without provocation and when he tried to defend himself, Methos joined the fight. Do you have anything to add?" "It's not true. He did provoke me. I hit him first. I lost it, and I shouldn't have. Methos tried to break us up and when he had my arms held behind me, Jamison hit me in the face. That's all I remember." "Methos," Tuvok called to the figure on the next biobed, "is that true?" "I didn't see the first part of the fight, but the rest is true. He," Methos was pointing at Jamison, "hit Tom when I had him under control. I got really pissed off that he would do that and I acted without thinking. I apologize." "Tom," Chakotay was being much nicer than Tom deserved and Tom began to feel even more guilty about the brawl he started, "how did Lt. Jamison provoke you?" "I can't tell you." "Lt. Jamison, what did you say to Lt. Paris before he hit you?" "I'd rather not say Commander Chakotay." Lt. Jamison was a stark contrast to the other two participants in the brawl. He did not look the least bit repentent. "You two do not seem to understand, answering my question is not a request, it's an order." Silence met the Commander's demand as he looked at the three participants. "Fine, all three of you will spend the next twelve hours in the brig for fighting, and you two, " Chakotay was pointing at the two Lt.'s again, "will spend an additional twelve hours in the brig for insubordination. I will ask you again every twelve hours what started the fight. You will not be released until you answer." Chakotay turned his attention to the EMH, "Doctor, call security as soon as the three of them are released from sickbay." "They can be released now Commander." "Fine. Security, get them out of my sight." Chakotay stormed out of the room without a backward glance at his stunned lover lying on the biobed. --- Tom was pacing back and forth in the cell he was sharing with Methos. Every fourth step was punctuated with a shout of, "Shit," and accompanied with a slam of a fist into the wall. Methos was sitting on the bunk staring at him. "Tom, do you want to talk about it?" "No! I don't, why the fuck did they put us in the same cell, I just want to be alone." "Tom, there are only two cells, and I don't really care to be bunking with Jamison, do you?" Methos was laughing and Tom nearly lost control again. "Will you just shut up! ... Aw Shit, I'm sorry Methos, I know you're just trying to help." "Come over here and sit down before you break a knuckle, I want to talk to you. I just want to know what started the fight. I'm not going to judge you Tom." "I don't want to talk about it." "It was about you and Chakotay wasn't it? Come on you need to talk about it. Strict confidence, I promise." --- Two hours later, Tom was sleeping with his head on Methos' lap, having told the whole story, including why those particular words had hurt so badly, and ended up crying into Methos' arms. Methos didn't know who he was more pissed off at, Chakotay or Jamison. He knew Tom wouldn't tell Chakotay what had started the fight and he knew Jamison wouldn't either. He had to do something before Tom ended up spending the next month in the brig. --- After he was released, he was escorted back to his quarters, only to be met by an irate Duncan MacLeod. "Methos, you shouldn't have gotten involved." "Don't start MacLeod. You would have done the same thing if Jamison sucker punched Tom while you were holding Tom's arms. Where's Chakotay? I need to talk to him." "Don't get involved any further Methos, it isn't your fight, and Dammit Methos, you don't even get involved in your own fights." "The hell it isn't MacLeod!!! " Methos couldn't go into the circumstances without telling Duncan everything, so he didn't. Methos was talking to himself outside the Commander's door. There were three security guards watching him now instead of just the one. He finally rang and was admitted into the Commander's quarters. Chakotay called him into the living area and offered him a seat. "Methos, you are not one of my favorite people at this moment, so make it quick." "Tom was provoked you know. " "I figured as much, but I need to hear it from him, not you. Don't get involved, it's not your concern." "I just heard almost the exact same words from MacLeod, Chakotay, and I'll answer you the same way I answered him. I am already involved, and it does concern me. Do you know I spent the night crammed onto a single bunk, holding your lover in my arms while he cried his eyes out over you?" He had finally gotten the Commander's attention. "He's protecting you you fool!! Fucking children, two days on this ship and I'm caught in an argument between a couple of babies. I care about Tom, Chakotay, Gods help me. I've only just met the man. What the hell am I thinking.?!?" Chakotay was becoming angry and covered himself by answering in a deceptively calm tone, "I don't know what you're thinking Methos. Why don't you tell me. Why don't you start with why my lover was crying into your arms all night." "Oh, don't start getting jealous on me, I promised him I wouldn't tell you, but I'm going to break my promise. Don't make me regret it Commander." Methos had slipped back into his quiet detached demeanor again, not sure he could continue if Chakotay started acting like Duncan. "I'm listening Methos." "I don't care how you solve this, but on your honor Commander, you don't let Tom know I've told you. Until you swear it, I'm not saying a word." "I swear it." Methos began in an unexpected way, "You know he thinks he's not good enough for you, don't you?" --- Methos was cataloging medical supplies two days later when Tom entered sickbay. "Hey, when did they let you out? They did let you out right? You're not an escapee are you?" "Yeah good to see you too Methos. Not only do I have to work full shifts in sickbay, and teach you how to fly, but I have to help Neelix for four hours a day for the next week. Not to mention having my replicator rations taken away for two weeks. The only consolation is that prick Jamison got the same punishment." "You know Chakotay would have gone allot easier on you if you told him the whole story." "Yeah Methos I know, but I couldn't. Please don't ask me to." "Tom, you really should tell him. It concerns him too you know. He's bound to hear the gossip sooner or later." Methos didn't know how much farther he could push Tom without pushing him away, so he resolved not to mention the incident again. "I'll handle that if it happens. Do you know the real reason I can't tell him?" "You're afraid he'd believe it aren't you? It's not true, and you think he might believe it is." "Methos, Chakotay used to hate me. We knew each other in the Maquis, but he didn't hate me there. He didn't respect me, but he didn't hate me. Then he thought I betrayed him and the cause, and he hated me for it. I didn't live up to his code of honor. It took almost four years for him to forgive and trust me. I don't think I could stand it if he didn't trust me. If he even thought there was a shred of truth in what Jamison said, I think I'd die. I'm not the same person I used to be Methos, not everyone is ready to believe that yet. You can't understand." "Can't I? You're forgetting how old I am Thomas. I have been many things in my lifetime, not all of them good. I believe people change, how could I not and still live with myself.?" "Methos, do you want to talk about it? Talking to you really helped me, maybe I can help you." "I doubt it Tom, this is something that only I can handle." "Well, I want to thank you for visiting me in the brig, and for just listening." "What are friends for, are you ready to start working now?" "Friends, yeah, we are aren't we? Hey Methos?" Methos didn't think he was ready for another big emotional scene, but prepared himself for it anyway, "Yeah Tom?" "You get to do all of the dangerous work." "Right." --- "Tom, do we have to go out tonight?" Chakotay was well aware he sounded like a whiny two-year old. Tom had been off report for two weeks and he still never saw the man. Well, that wasn't true. He saw him right before they went to sleep, usually having some pretty wild sex beforehand, and when they first woke up in the morning. Chakotay enjoyed the morning sex more. Tom tended to like gentle cuddling and slow sex when he first woke up, and that suited Chakotay just fine. Tom had been spending all of his time in sickbay and on holodeck shuttle simulations. Of course he was spending all of that time with Methos. Chakotay couldn't help it, he was jealous. He had to keep reminding himself that Methos had a lover that he had been with for four hundred years. That had to count for something. He also had to remind himself that he was the one that assigned the two men to sickbay and shuttle training. He didn't have to like it though. "Chakotay, you know we have to go, it's the finals!" Tom was running around Chakotay's quarters in his underwear looking for something to wear. In the past month and a half, he had practically moved in with the Commander. His clothes were strewn about the room, dominating the space. He liked to wear Chakotay's clothes, and was going through Chakotay's closet for something to wear, having discarded most of his own clothing as inappropriate for the occasion. He picked up a blue button down denim shirt and held it up to the black denim jeans he had planned to wear. "What do you think Chak?" "I think it's unfair that you fit into my clothes and I don't fit into yours." "Don't be a baby Chak, I'll replicate any new clothes a size too big, then you can wear mine too. I'm taking a quick shower, we're running late, but we should just make it. Are you ready?" "Yes." "Don't get in the shower with me, we don't have time. And don't look at me like that." While Tom was showering, Chakotay took the opportunity to com Duncan. The Scot answered immediately and the Commander could hear loud music in the background. "What is that noise?" "Oh hi Chakotay, Methos likes to get ready to loud music. It's a band from the late twentieth century. He says it helps him relax. They're called Nirvana or something like that. It's driving me up the wall." Chakotay could make out a nude figure dart across the background of the viewscreen. "I see Methos isn't ready either, are you? Tom's in the shower, but I'm ready now. Do you want to go with me and meet them there?" "Yeah, I'll meet you outside, it would serve them right if they were late. I'm tired of being Methos' timekeeper and personal valet service. I don't know how they make it to sickbay on time every day." "Funny, I was just thinking the same thing." When Tom got out of the shower he was surprised to find Chakotay already gone. He commed Methos to see if Chak was there. He was even more surprised to learn that both Duncan and Chakotay had gone ahead without them. Tom and Methos stepped into the turbolift and had only minutes to be at the holodeck on time. “I told you we were going to be late, how many times do you have to change? All you own are sweaters and blue jeans, how hard is it to pick a color?" Tom had to admit to himself that Methos looked good, he was wearing a cream colored cable knit sweater and faded jeans. Tom found himself admiring his friends looks more and more lately. "You don't think they went on ahead because they're annoyed with us do you?" Methos was aware that Duncan was getting annoyed with all the time he had been spending with Tom lately, but Dammit, he was the one who suggested they work together in the first place! "No, they probably just got bored. I don't understand how I'm always late. I take shorter showers than Chakotay and get dressed faster, but he always seems to be ready first. I just don't get it." "It's called a short attention span Tom. Here we are, you ready to kick some ass?" "The Captain's spent all of her free time practicing, she never even runs her DaVinci program anymore. She knows we haven't had time to practice. I think she's trying to keep us busy so we can't get any better. Why else would she assign us so many medical classes at one time?" "Tom, you're being paranoid. She's trying to get me up to speed in sickbay because you only have limited time before you have to be back on the bridge for full shifts. You go back tomorrow right?" "Yeah, right. You know the old saying about being paranoid don't you?" "Tom, I started that saying." Methos walked into the holodeck and left Tom standing in the doorway for a second wondering whether to believe him or not. Sometimes he just couldn't tell when the oldest immortal was pulling his leg. He hurried to catch up with his partner. They walked towards the table their lovers were at, but before they could get there they were steered to the pool table. The Captain and her partner Seven were waiting for them. "You two are lucky. We were giving you five more minutes and then were going to call a forfeit. Punctuality counts gentlemen." The Captain was glowing and gorgeous in a silk pants ensemble. She also looked very confident. Tom did not have a good feeling. Harry was officiating the finals since he and Jenny Delaney had been eliminated in the first round. He had wanted to be Tom's partner, but Tom had asked Methos first. Harry really didn't blame him, but it still hurt a little. He felt they were growing apart, but wasn't that part of growing up? You settle down with a partner, and begin to lose your friends from when you were single. Tom had Chakotay, and he had Seven. But at least on Voyager they couldn't lose touch completely. And Tom was coming back to the bridge the next day. Harry had really missed his presence the past three weeks, the bridge was boring enough in this uninhabited space with Tom there. Without Tom, Harry thought he'd die of boredom. Well at least Chakotay had loosened up. Now if he could only find a way to get Tuvok to relax. Harry's thoughts were pulled back to Sandrine's as Seven was calling his name. "Harry, are you going to toss the coin?" "Uh, yeah, Ladies call." "Mr. Kim," Oh Oh the Captain was using her command voice, "don't you think that's a little archaic. You call." "Right, Captain, you and Seven have heads." Captain Janeway and Seven won the coin toss and Seven broke. She ran the entire table and everyone took a break for drinks. Methos broke on the next round and he ran the table in under fifteen minutes. They all took another break, joining the Commander and MacLeod at their table. "This final isn't very exciting, it's almost anticlimactic. Captain are you going to clear the table next. Poor Tom isn't even going to get a chance, "Chakotay was secretly pleased with the quickness of the game. Maybe he and Tom would get to spend some time together tonight after all. "Now Chakotay, I know what you're trying to do, and it's not going to work. I am solid as a rock, not a nerve in me. You just watch sit back and watch." And with that the players got up and began the final round. "Chakotay," Duncan wasn't paying attention to the game, he wanted to talk to the Commander. "Look at them, don't they look like they belong together?" Chakotay knew exactly who MacLeod was talking about without a name mentioned. "Are you jealous Duncan?" "Only about as much as you are." Duncan couldn't help chuckling as he spoke, "Come on Chakotay, confess. They're spending all of their time together. I'm working in engineering and teaching hand to hand combat class, you're spending all your time on the bridge and on crew reports. They work together in sickbay all day, probably blasting loud music and playing vid games. Then they go to the holodeck and fly half the night. I am a tolerant man, but I do have my limits." "Do you think there's something there?" "Yeah Chakotay, I do, I just don't think they realize it yet." "Duncan, you and Methos have been together for four hundred years, he's not going to leave you for Tom." "No Chakotay, he won't leave me forever, but one of the reasons we've lasted so long is that we give each other space. Or at least I give him space. He has a hard time staying in one place for very long. I let him go and he comes back. It's worked for this long." "What's the longest he's ever been gone?" "You're not going to like this," Duncan warned the commander before he told him, "around thirty-five years." "Thirty-five years?! How could he do that to you?" "Chakotay, you're forgetting how old he is. Thirty five years to him is like a week to you, or a year to me. I don't like it, but I know he needs to do it. Every minute he's out of my sight I worry about him. The only reason I don't follow him is because I can always feel him no matter how far apart we are. Sometimes he's almost safer without me. He hides from conflict and he accuses me of inviting it. He might be right. I just wanted to warn you before either of them realizes what's happening between them." "What are you suggesting Duncan?" "That we let it run its course. They really are too much alike to have any kind of a lasting relationship beyond friendship. They'd kill each other." "I'm not too sure about that Duncan, they're alike in a good way, they never fight, both of them avoid conflict like the plague, and neither one can hold onto anger for very long." "Yeah, and both of them let things fester inside them and never confront their demons. It's not healthy, we get them to face things, they may not like it, but they need it. I think they both know it." Their conversation was interrupted by a loud whoop from the pool table, and they got up to see what was happening with the game. Seven was standing back from the table looking very surprised. "I do not understand. I calculated the trajectory precisely, the ball should have gone into the pocket. I am sorry Captain." "Don't worry Seven, it's not over yet. They have to sink the last three of their stripes, and then the eight ball. We only have the eight ball left. If I get another turn we will win." Methos and Tom were standing off to the side of the table discussing strategy. They had their heads together and were so involved with their conversation they didn't notice their lovers watching them. Chakotay was really starting to worry Duncan was right. Methos walked up to the table and quickly dispatched the rest of the striped balls. He wasted no time lining up his shot and neatly sunk the eight ball. Tom was in his arms in a flash, the two men hugging with all of Sandrine's watching. After everyone settled down, the four combatants, Harry, B'Elanna, Chakotay and MacLeod all sat down together. It wasn't lost on Chakotay or Duncan that Tom and Methos choose to sit next to each other. They failed to notice the other men were surreptitiously looking at them sitting together whenever they got the chance. "Well played Tom, Methos, I guess we owe you a round of drinks." The Captain was actually thinking how nice it would have been to have the forty day's rations credits. The entry fee for the tournament was a day's rations, and over a quarter of the crew had entered. Tom and Methos were going to be eating well for the next three weeks. "I'm just glad we had the side bet Captain, I wouldn't want to have to dip into my rations too soon." Tom loved teasing his Captain, and he knew she loved to be teased. He was getting Methos into the act though, and he wasn't sure if the Captain was going to appreciate it. "So Methos," Tom and Methos had this planned for weeks, but he still sounded nonchalant when he began his inquiry, "where did you learn to play pool." Tom thought about Methos' timing as he watched everyone lift their drinks to their mouths. Methos looked like he was thinking about an answer, but he was actually waiting to achieve the maximum effect. "Well," he began, "I didn't actually learn how to play pool... I invented the game." Tom thought he was going to die laughing. Their carefully planned and perfectly executed statement had exactly the effect they had hoped. Jaws dropped, drinks were spilled, and laughter followed. The Captain could finally speak, "Methos, don't you think it would have been more fair to mention this little fact before you entered the tournament?" "But it was so much more fun this way Captain." "Maybe we should void the whole tournament and you should return the rations you won." "But Captain, you had Seven on your team, that isn't exactly fair either," Tom actually believed the Captain wasn't going to let them keep their winnings and couldn't help sounding whiny. "Relax, mister, it was a joke." Everyone at the table was laughing at Tom now. The tables were turned on him, but he didn't mind, he could take it as well as serve it. Tom motioned for Methos to follow as he got up from the table to buy a round of drinks. When they got to the bar, he whispered to Methos, "Are you seeing what I'm seeing?" "Yes, I know exactly what you mean." "Well, what are we going to do? You don't think they would actually get together do you?" "I don't know Tom, they are so much alike it scares me. Duncan has very high standards, and Chakotay actually meets them." "Yeah, I know, that's what worries me. I know he cares for me, but I see the way he and Duncan look at each other." "Look on the bright side, if they leave us, we can help each other through it." "Yeah, I know that, but I'd rather it didn't happen. Come on grab those drinks, we've got to get back." Their whispered conversation was not lost on the two sets of brown eyes watching them. The words weren't loud enough to be heard, but the secretive delivery was all too clear. --- "Chak, can you hear them?" "What do you think?" "Well, its making me horny again." "We've had sex three times already tonight Tom, turn on some music so you can't hear them, I'm an old man and I need sleep, I'm on duty in four hours. Can't we just lay here and relax for awhile?" Tom pulled Chakotay's hand from his chest and rearranged it around his semi- erect penis. He used Chakotay's hand to masturbate himself to full hardness and then began to rub himself up and down his lover's body. He could feel heat from the friction begin to envelope him and leaned over to nuzzle Chak's neck, slowly working his way downward. He rolled over covering the bigger man's body and began rubbing against him in earnest. "Chak, I can feel that, something's waking up down there. Only your brain's old , not your body. Three times in two hours, I am impressed." "Tom, aren't you sore?" "Hell no, I'm just getting warmed up," he handed Chakotay the tube of oil and continued, "You're turn." "Okay Tom, but you aren't getting another turn tonight, I am sore." Between kisses Tom managed to breathe out "Told you you had it in you." Tom didn't get off the older man which really surprised him . Instead he sat up in the Commander's lap, continuing to stroke him, now using his hand instead of his full body. When he had brought Chak's cock to full hardness, he wasted no time impaling himself on the thick shaft. He let out a muffled sigh and pulled his lover into a sitting position, never letting him loose. He wrapped his arms around his back and pulled him in for a full kiss. "Don't move Chak. Just relax and let me do this, OK?" Chakotay took a few short panting breaths before he could even think about responding. He had never felt anything like it before. Tom was kissing him deep, thrusting in and out of his mouth with his tongue and where their bodies were joined, Tom was literally using his own weight to draw Chakotay inside himself as far as humanly possible. He had had sex with women sitting on his lap before, but never with another man. Tom took that moment to decide to start clenching his ass muscles. "What are you doing to me Tom, never mind, whatever it is don't stop, please, just don't stoooppp... uhhhhhh... ahhhhhhh... Tom, Tom, ahhhhhh... Tom... Oh Yeah, don't stop..." Chakotay had no idea he was shouting at the top of his lungs. --- "Duncan, do you hear that?" "What do you think Methos?" "Are you ready for another round?" Methos wasn't waiting for an answer when the answer could be no. So he attached himself to Duncan's dick with his mouth like a little sucker fish. After very few minutes of practiced manipulation he had the younger man ready to go again. "Your turn Duncan, " "I'm too tired to move." "You don't exactly look to tired from down here Mac." Methos continued to suckle his partner until he felt the moist droplets escaping through the tiny slit on the younger man's dick. He gave two hard sucks, enveloping him completely and abruptly stopped, leaving his partner right on the edge. "What are you doing Methos?" "If you want any more you have to move. I told you, its your turn" "You're the one who started this not me....Uhhh Uhhhh Uhhhh... Methos... why'd you stop again?" "I'm just going to keep doing this until either your balls are blue or you've fucked me, your choice Duncan." And he kept his word. Mac held out until about the sixth time Methos brought him to the edge and refused to go beyond. Duncan had had enough. He jumped up with a growl, grabbed the smaller man by the hips, threw him to the edge of the bed face down, pulled his knees to the floor so his upper body was on the bed and his ass on the edge. "You wanted me to fuck you, well get ready Methos." Without even pausing he pushed himself into the yielding man beneath him, burying himself until he could feel Methos' firm ass against his body. It didn't take either man more than five minutes to reach a climax, both men once again shouting at the top of their lungs. Methos was the first to move, crawling back onto the bed and collapsing face down. It didn't take long for Mac to follow him. There was silence for a minute until Mac finally spoke, "Methos love, please don't take this the wrong way, but lay a finger on my dick again tonight and I'll take your head. Computer, music, 18th century chamber music one quarter volume. Good night, love" --- Chakotay saw Duncan at breakfast falling asleep into his plate. "Rough night Mac?" "You don't look so rested yourself Chakotay, do you have any idea what you did to me last night?" "You? Every time Tom heard you two through the damn thin walls, he wanted to fuck again. Can't you guys turn on some music or keep it down a little." "Us? Yeah right. Every time Methos heard the two of you, he latched onto my dick so tight, I thought he was going to emasculate me. "What do you think? Earplugs for them?" "Either that or really loud music. That's how I finally got him to sleep last night. I put on some chamber music to drown you two out." "Well, if it's any consolation, Tom's having some trouble getting out of bed this morning. I can't wait to watch him try to sit through his first shift back on the bridge today. Is Methos up yet?" "Are you kidding? He'll stumble out of bed ten minutes before his shift starts." "Chakotay to Paris"... "Commander Chakotay to Lt. Paris" "I'm up, I'm up" "You don't sound up Tom, if you're late for your shift you're on report. You have fifteen minutes. And Tom, you better shower." As soon as Chakotay turned off the com link he and Mac burst into laughter. "Mac, I've got to get to the bridge, I don't want to miss Tom's entrance." "Chakotay, wait a minute... MacLeod to Methos... Methos Answer Me... MacLeod to Methos..." "What the fuck do you want at this hour?!?" "Now is that any way to speak over an open com link Methos? Aren't you supposed to be in sickbay in ten minutes?" Chakotay could hear a stream of cursing, or what he assumed was cursing through MacLeod's combadge, "Mac, what language is that." "It's Gaelic, he choose it because he knows I'll understand what he's saying." "Well, what's he saying." "His disparaging my ancestry, let's leave it at that." --- Duncan, Chakotay, Tom, and Methos were enjoying a rare day off together. The four men had been put to work in various departments since the shuttle had been repaired three weeks previously and did not usually have time to laze around the holodeck together. In addition to his part time engineering work, Commander Tuvok had found a position for MacLeod in the Vulcan's mini Starfleet academy. The Maquis crewmembers who were interested were being taught a curriculum very similar to the academy's own. Duncan was the new survivalist training instructor, as well as the hand to hand combat instructor. He had neither asked for, nor received a commission from the Captain yet, and wasn't sure if he wanted one. Methos had completed the nursing program the Doctor had originally made for Kes, and then Lt. Paris. He was now Voyager's official nurse, providing Tom with plenty of ammunition to tease his friend. He was continuing his medical studies and would be a qualified doctor once again within the year. The principles of medicine, and of course, the human body hadn't changed very much in one the one hundred and fifty years since he was last a physician. Only the tools had changed and Methos was quickly learning their use. Tom had been released from his sickbay shifts, but he and Methos were still practicing flight sims almost daily. Of the four men, they were able to spend the most time together and had become good friends and friendly flying competitors. Chakotay had the least free time, his duties as first officer keeping him on duty for twelve hours a day for more days then he would like to count. Voyager was once again in a populated section of space with no idea what lay beyond their long range sensors. This rare day the four of them were enjoying together was a needed respite. Even though they had not met up with any hostile natives, the tension level on the ship was back to its normal level. The holoprogram they were enjoying was a masterpiece. The four of them were at the beach in Monterey on a sunny, but not too bright day. Tom had worked on the program for over a month to get it just right. It was worth the work. The sky was a blue only the late summer days of California seemed capable of producing and a scattering of fluffy white clouds only enhanced the view. Duncan and Chakotay were relaxing over a game of old fashioned chess on the deck of the beachhouse while Methos and Tom were windsurfing. The two men were over a kilometer offshore, catching the biggest waves and swells Duncan had ever seen. Duncan took a break from the game to watch the two far away figures skimming across the swells. "Chakotay, I've been to Monterey before and the waves were never this big, you don't think Tom put a surprise storm in this program do you?." Duncan had gotten to know the young pilot over the past two months and knew him to be capable of adding just that sort of surprise into an otherwise idyllic program. When they had been hit by an unexpected blizzard while skiing the week before, the only excuse Tom offered was that random disasters made holodecks seem more like the real thing. Duncan was not amused, but Methos had loved it. Especially the luxury cabins they had ended up in. Maybe the storm wasn't so random Duncan mused. Chakotay's answering his forgotten question snapped him back to the present. "Do you even have to ask? Tom designed the program, remember? He's even made the waves as high as possible and still be surfable. He also put them one after the other so he won't have to wait for the perfect swell, they're all perfect." "I see." There was a pause while he watched the two men float across the waves. Methos choose that moment to throw in an aerial trick, spinning 360 degrees before executing a perfect landing into the trough of the next wave. "I can't believe Methos is out there, never mind that he knows how to windsurf. He hates water, especially the ocean." "It's a hologram Duncan. Tom probably programmed the water to be 70 degrees and taste like beer." "Good point. So where are the naked dancing girls? " "They're probably in a subroutine the two of them play when we aren't here." They turned their attention back to the game, and within a few minutes Duncan had captured Chakotay's king. They moved to the sand bringing their pitcher of iced tea with them. The two men sprawled onto the blanket and stared into the impossibly blue sky, both thinking of a planet that lay beyond their reach. Chakotay had never called Earth home, and Duncan was in no hurry to return, yet neither could help being reminded they were far removed from everything they had ever known. Duncan rolled onto his stomach and turned his head to face the man lying next to him. Both were stretched full out, enjoying the re-created sun. It wasn't the same as real sunshine, but Voyager hadn't stopped on any planets recently so it would have to do. Mac turned his thoughts to the ship they had finally restored power to. "Chakotay, has Astrometrics found the wormhole we came through yet?" The sensors on the shuttle had malfunctioned as the ship exited the wormhole, leaving only a slim chance of finding it. Their records provided no clues to the Delta Quadrant beyond the existence of the wormhole. Seven had been trying to find it for two weeks without any luck until just hours ago. Chakotay had forgotten about the report he had received right before he went to the holodeck. Duncan's question prompted his memory, "Actually, they think they have. We just aren't sure if it's still stable or not. You came through 85 years ago and we still have another 35 years to get there. If we go and it's not stable, it's going to add two years onto our trip to get back on course. The Captain is going to make her decision soon." "Two years isn't too much to risk if the reward is 35 years less travel time." "That seems to be the consensus." --- "Chakotay, when Voyager makes it to the wormhole, we won't be going back to the Alpha Quadrant with you." Chakotay was a little surprised by the announcement. He thought it was a possibility, but really didn't believe it would happen. "You've become part of the crew over the past two months. I thought you were making lives for yourselves on Voyager. You both seem happy. " "That's exactly why we won't be going with you. I have known Methos for four hundred years Duncan, and I have never seen him act this way." "What way?" "Relaxed." "Chakotay, immortals have something called a quickening. It's the energy within our bodies. The younger an immortal, the weaker the quickening. If an immortal is old, or has taken many heads, the quickening is very strong." "Taken many heads?" Chakotay wasn't sure if he really wanted to hear this, but morbid curiosity had him rooted to his seat. "That's how we die. There's something that we call the Game. When two immortals meet each other, they usually end up fighting to the death. When you kill your opponent you absorb their quickening, making yours stronger. " Chakotay didn't know what to say so he let the silence stretch out. But he couldn't help himself, he wanted to know more, "Are you saying that when you win a challenge with another immortal, you absorb their spirit?" "Spirit, energy, life force, whatever you want to call it. Methos has lived a very long time Chakotay, imagine he faced one challenge a year in his lifetime. Now add all of those quickenings in with his own life experiences." Duncan hoped Chakotay would figure things out on his own. He felt like he was betraying Methos' confidence with the little information he had given. "No one knows how much storage capacity the human brain actually has. One reason Methos is the only one of his age, is that Immortals tend to go insane before they reach 3000. I don't know how he's managed." "Duncan, you're not suggesting he's dangerous are you?" "No, but he can't handle any more quickenings. I almost lost him the last time he had to take a head. People who know who he is want to challenge him because of the power of his quickening. Most immortals don't even know he exists. Methos is a legend to all but a handful. Most immortals know him as Adam Pierson and think he was born in the twentieth century. Some know he lives, but not very many." "So doesn't that make him safe?" "No it doesn't. I'm the problem. Methos can mute his quickening making him seem much younger than he is. He's the only one I've ever heard of with the talent. He doesn't even know how he does it so he can't teach me. I have a very strong quickening and a reputation. I'm almost 1000 and I have taken many heads, some of them belonging to some very old and powerful people. Others have preyed on him to get to me. It's usually the catalyst when he decides he needs his space. I don't go looking for challenges Chakotay, they find me. Sometimes they find Adam, and try to use him to get to me. We have a very close connection, it's almost as if we share our quickenings. When I win a challenge, the quickening still affects him. Every time I face a challenge I risk losing him. When we went on our supply run, we were not planning on coming back. We were getting out of the game for as long as we could." "What's the point to the game?" "There can be only one." "What exactly does that mean?" "At some point there is going to be a Gathering, and the remaining immortals will fight to the death. The winner gets the prize. No one knows exactly what the prize is. It could be great power, it could be to become mortal again. We don't know. I suppose it will be a biological calling when the time comes. If we are far enough away from Earth, we might not feel the Gathering, and might not fight each other. It's all maybes, but Chakotay, I couldn't live with myself if I killed him at the gathering because of a biological imperative. No matter what the prize is, it wouldn't be enough. Methos thinks I am the most likely to win. When we first met, he offered me his head to defeat an immortal he didn't think I could defeat without his quickening behind me. He offered me his head so that man couldn't take it. Chakotay, if someone takes Methos' head, they will be unstoppable." "If he's that powerful, why doesn't he think he should be the one in the end?." "I've never asked him. I don't even know if he'd tell me the truth if I did. Methos has great depth to him that I don't think I could understand even if I lived to be his age." Chakotay was having a difficult time absorbing all he had been told. He decided to focus on the individual he now called his friend rather than the big picture. "How is Methos different now from when he was in the Alpha Quadrant?" "He's happy, he doesn't have to watch his back or sleep with a sword. He only has nightmares every so often now instead of two or three times a night. He's the man I could always glimpse under the surface, but could never seem to bring out. He used to be very sarcastic, and surround himself with walls so high there was no breaching them. He almost seemed tired of living at times. He's told me over and over again how I brought him back into the world when he was to tired to face another day. There's a real person under there that hasn't been heard from in thousands of years. I'm not going to ask him to give that up. We have to stay in the Delta Quadrant." "Duncan, if we make it to that wormhole, and if the wormhole is still stable, it won't be for another thirty-five years." How could Duncan explain that thirty five years is not very much time. For Chakotay, thirty five years represented a third of his life. Duncan was beginning to understand Methos' concept of the big picture. Duncan was learning to think in fifty year plans, he had no idea how long the big picture was to Methos. "Duncan?" "Yeah?" "I can't reconcile what you've told me with the man I've seen. He looks younger than Tom, and acts younger half the time. The two of them make me feel like an old man. I don't look at him and see a six thousand year old man." "You've already heard his favorite line." "I have?" "The first day you met him he told you 'I'm just a guy', remember? "I think I was still in shock at that point. Is it a line?" "Yeah, it is. He's not just a guy but don't tell him I told you, he'd kill me." "Do you think you'll stay on Voyager until we get to the wormhole?" "I don't know, you said it yourself, it's still thirty-five years away." They lapsed into silence and slowly drifted off to sleep, only to be hit with a cascade of water half an hour later. Both men jumped to their feet looking for the culprit but there was no one in sight. They stood drenched and dripping on their blanket which was in no better condition. Chakotay was the first to figure out what had happened. "I'm going to kill him." He stated in a very quiet, almost menacing tone. "Tom Paris, I know you can hear me. Are you declaring war? Yes? Well, get ready, you can run, but you can't hide." Duncan still couldn't figure out exactly how he had gotten soaked. He definitely would have felt Methos, and he was pretty sure he would have felt Tom's weak pre-immortal signature. He was soaked and there was no one in sight. He looked at Chakotay standing next to him and witnessed the huge grin spreading across the usually unreadable face of the Commander. "Computer, initiate privacy lock on holodeck 2. Lock out Lt. Tom Paris from voice control and open the door on my voice command only. Authorization Chakotay epsilon gamma 473." Chakotay motioned to Duncan indicating him to follow, and headed back to the deck. "Tom programmed that little waterfall. I've locked him out of holodeck controls. It looks like they want a friendly war. You ready?" Oh, this could be fun. "What's the plan?" "Mac, do you know how to track someone?" "I lived with the Lakota for almost half a century, I'm a fair hand at tracking." Chakotay filed away the tidbit of information for later reflection before he filled Duncan in on his plan. "You go after Tom, I'll get Methos. He can't feel me coming so it will be easier for me to sneak up on him. When you capture Tom, meet back here. We'll check in every half hour." "Computer, replicator at my location." --- Tom and Methos were behind a dune 500 meters away from their companions. They had a clear view of their handiwork, and could easily hear Chakotay's declaration of war. "Shit! Chakotay locked me out of the computer." "You knew he would. We've already got everything we need. That waterfall was ingenious, I don't think I could have done it better myself." As they planned the battle they made one fatal mistake. Methos assumed Duncan would hunt him down, so he didn't worry about finding a defensible position. He knew he would feel the other immortal before he could get close enough to capture him. He started his own hunt unaware Chakotay was about to start tracking him. Tom thought Chakotay would be the one after him and he had no clue that MacLeod could feel his presence. He didn't try very hard to avoid Chakotay. The point to the whole adventure was to be captured, but he had to add some fun to the chase. The hunt lasted little more than hour. Tom was the first to be caught. He was making his way around a large dune and toward the road where he thought he could hide in the trees. He didn't see the man who took him down. In an instant he found himself face down in the sand with a body on top of him. "OK Chak, you got me. Now what are you going to do with me?" He was pinned to the ground , but could still squirm in the soft sand. His struggle wasn't really a struggle and he raised his hips to grind his buttocks into the groin of the man straddling him. The innuendo in the young man's voice was not lost on Mac, "Och, 'ya young rogue, is no yer Chakotay who captured yew," Duncan was surprised to find the blonde beneath him pushing himself into his groin. Surprised and aroused. "'Yer not goin' ta get away wit 'yer little prank so easily young Thomas. I am no the Commander. If yer lucky, we'll agree to a prisoner exchange once he catches the old man." "And if I'm not lucky?" Tom didn't need a verbal answer. He felt the handcuffs Chakotay had replicated and knew what they were without having to look. Gentle hands reached down to his ankles and tied them together as well. "Well, yer trussed up like the Thanksgiving Turkey, yer lucky I dinna want ta have my way with yew. Hasna Methos taught ya anything in the past two months, man?" "I was expecting Chakotay. Now what are you going to do with me?" Without answering, Mac picked the taller man up and threw him over his shoulders in the classic fireman's carry and headed back to the beach house to wait for his teammate. Methos was faring no better. He kept searching for Mac's presence but couldn't find him. He was making no effort to cover his own tracks, assuming he would have ample warning before Mac could get too close. He could feel the adrenaline coursing through his blood, enjoying the familiar sensation. He silently complimented Tom for his game and went back to work hunting Mac. He was planning what he was going to do to his willing captive when he suddenly found himself on the ground looking up at the blue sky. He didn't feel the lasso that had been thrown around his shoulders and had yanked him backward until he was already off of his feet. Before he could register his surprise, he was set upon and trussed up much like his co-conspirator had been. When he looked up at the man towering over him all he could manage was a groan of "No Fair." Chakotay threw his prisoner over his shoulder and headed back to the beach house. He wasn't surprised to find Mac sitting on the deck nursing a beer. He knew the Scotsman would have no problem tracking Tom down. Chakotay was also aware that the only way he was able to capture his prey so easily was because Methos had been expecting Mac to hunt him. He threw Methos down onto the wet blanket next to Tom and went to join the younger immortal on the deck. Chakotay raised his bottle to Mac in a silent toast to their successful mission. "So Mac, what are we going to do with them?" Chakotay knew what he was going to do with the pilot, but was loving the anticipation and planned to drag this out as long as possible. "Commander, would you be amenable to a prisoner exchange. I'm getting the worst end of the bargain so I'd like additional compensation. Your prisoner is a scrawny little thing with too many years on him to count. My prisoner, however is a strapping young lad with a bright future ahead of him." "Maybe we should just keep the ones we captured. I don't think they're that unevenly matched. Your prisoner has years of knowledge that offset his age. Maybe I'd like to keep him for awhile. Does he posses any special skills?" "No, he only knows how to make messes and not clean up after himself. How about that one?" he queried while pointing his beer at Tom. "Much the same, I'm afraid." Mac and Chakotay were finding it difficult to keep straight faces as the two tied up prizes were staring up at them in shock. Tom Paris couldn't believe the turn of events. Maybe he could talk his way out of it. "You two looked too serious for a day at the beach so we decided to have a little fun. You did have fun didn't you?" Chakotay and Duncan were looking at the two delectable morsels laid out on the beach in front of them. Neither man could drag this out any further and quickly agreed to swap prisoners. Just as things were about to get very interesting, the beach shimmered out of existence to be replaced by the black and yellow grid of the holodeck. The captives were freed when their holographic bonds disappeared. "Awe shit, wouldn't you know, just as things are starting to look good. Do you guys want to continue this game next week?" Tom was genuinely disappointed he didn't get to complete his role as willing servant to the victor. Chakotay didn't want the game to end either. All four men had the rest of the night off and Chakotay was feeling devious, "No, I don't think we have to wait until next week. You're our prisoners. That didn't change when our holodeck time ran out. You can serve us for the rest of the night. Right MacLeod?" "I like the way ye think man. Do we let them put the rest of their clothes back on?" "I'm afraid we have to. I don't think the Captain would appreciate them running around the decks of Voyager half naked." Chakotay couldn't keep the visual out of his head as the said bodies were covering up. --- Captain Janeway walked into her living area after a long soak in the tub and nearly jumped out of her skin when she saw Q sitting at her desk. Q had not paid Voyager a visit in almost two years and she was more than a little surprised to see him. She took a moment to settle herself, leveled her eyes at him, and addressed him in her most intimidating command tone, "Q, you know you are not welcome in my personal quarters. " "Kathy, Kathy, Kathy, here I am trying to help you and you greet me in that tone? Hostility does not become you Kathy. I'm only here to help you this time. I want nothing from you or your crew." Q drew himself up to his full height, and continued in an ominous voice, "I'm here to warn you." Q had gotten her attention. Q did not usually concern himself with the safety of Voyager and her crew. He did not show up to warn her when Voyager had faced any of a myriad of Delta Quadrant natives. His warning made her quite nervous. "Q, what do you really want? You've never come to warn me before, and believe me I would have welcomed a warning from you about the Hirogen before we met them." "I didn't need to warn you about the Hirogen, you knew what they were before you entered their territory. Kathy, you have no idea exactly what you have welcomed aboard your ship." Q seemed deadly serious in his tone and posture. "Q if you are referring to Duncan and Methos, I know what they are. They explained everything their first day aboard, and the doctor confirmed what they told us. In fact they have made themselves useful since then and are part of my crew now. You should know that though, what do you really want?" Captain Janeway had never gotten over her suspicions of the omniscient Q and his use of humans in his games. The last time they met up with Q, they were caught up in a civil war they couldn't begin to comprehend, barely escaping intact. "I know you know of their immortality Kathy, but you don't know who that man is. I'm here to tell you you've allowed a monster, a killer, a mass murderer onto your ship. He is not what he appears to be. You have to listen to me, he shouldn't be here. He is an abomination!" Q was practically shouting by the time he spat out the word abomination, clearly believing his own dire pronouncement. "Q, I am well aware of Mr. MacLeod's role in Earth history. He told us everything. He admitted to the assassination of heads of state and military leaders. I don't condone his behavior, but it was a war..no matter how secret that war has been kept over the centuries." "Kathy, you don't understand! I know all that. I know everything you know, I'm here to tell you what you don't know. MacLeod is not my concern The man is even more honorable than Jean-Luc if that's possible. I just don't understand how he accepts that monster called Methos. I'm here to take care of something MacLeod should have done four centuries ago. I'm taking his head and he will die. He's deserved it for a long time Kathy, don't try to stop me." Q had reverted to his normal calm continence as he spoke of his plans to execute one of the newest members of her crew. "Q, you have to know I won't allow you to do that. If what he did happened over four hundred years ago, you are a little late to be meting out justice. You have no right to be judge, jury and executioner for a member of my crew." "Captain, his crimes were committed over three thousand years ago, there is no one left to do it. When I first met humans, Jean-Luc convinced me the human race had changed from its barbaric past. The past is the present while that man lives. If I had used Methos as exhibit A instead of Ghengis Khan, the outcome of that trial would have been vastly different. He will be punished." "For something that happened three thousand years ago, Q?" "Kathy, there is no statute of limitations for genocide. I'm the only one left who knows what that man is capable of, therefore, I will be the one to see him pay. If you support that man, you are condoning his actions." "Q, I won't let you just take him and execute him, that is not justice." "You can't stop me Kathy, but I knew you'd react this way. When I present you with the evidence, you will change your mind. We're going to have a trial. We start in the morning. You, Chakotay, and Tuvok will be on the the tribunal. I'm the prosecutor, and Mr. MacLeod will be the defense. Try to sleep, you're going to need the rest." And with a wave of his hand, Q vanished, leaving Captain Janeway alone in her quarters. Q couldn't have the right man she assured herself. The Methos she knew was a quiet unassuming man who was a pleasure to share time with. He was well educated, well read, willing to work, and a good doctor. He had a manner with the patients in sickbay that was starting to rub off on the Holodoc. Q must be mistaken. But, Q doesn't make mistakes, does he? --- She let her thoughts drift back to the previous night in Sandrine's where she sat with the two couples. Tom and Methos had obviously lost some wager to the Commander and MacLeod. The losers were serving the victors as if they were slaves and the others their masters. Tom was blushing the whole time, but Methos was acting as if his behavior were the most natural thing in the world. She lost it when Chakotay made Tom follow two paces behind him the whole evening. MacLeod preferred to keep Methos at his side going so far as to make him kneel on the floor next to him when all four seats at the table were occupied. When the Commander made Tom sit on his lap and feed him dinner, she had to excuse herself. Her dreams that night were filled with visions of the four men in various positions. In her mind's eye she saw Tom engulfing the Commander's manhood in his mouth. She didn't really know what either man looked like naked, but she was having vivid dreams nonetheless. Chakotay's body was larger than Tom's and his penis was an impressive tool. She saw him throw his head back in ecstasy as the blonde head bobbed up and down on his shaft. The scream she heard had to have been in her dream, but it sounded so real. Tom lapped up every drop of the offering Chakotay made him and continued to lick the bronze body. She saw him flip the bigger man over and begin licking his back. He ran his tongue down the outside of Chakotay's hips and begin to move in towards his target. She heard the Commander's moans as if the two men were right there in the in the bed with her. Tom didn't stop his ministrations on the Commander's backside, continuing to tongue the area between his rounded, muscular, tan buttocks. Chakotay was writhing beneath him and Tom had to hold his hips with both hands to keep him steady. He tongued the puckered opening, leaving it to lick the space between balls and rear. Finally, he ended his torture, pulling himself to his knees between the Commander's parted thighs. In her dream, Tom's body was a work of art. Smooth, pale skin, chest lightly furred, and long, long legs. He also sported an impressive erection and was moving his hips toward the bigger man's bottom, preparing to bury himself in the other man. Slow steady thrusts became pounding slams as Tom buried himself in the the older man. She could hear the slap of heavy balls into flesh as the two men united their bodies. Then she woke up. She was close to orgasm and hadn't even touched herself. She forced herself out of bed and made herbal tea. She finished the whole pot before climbing back into bed, her mind still cluttered with visions of two of her senior officers making mad passionate love. When she drifted back into slumber, her subconscious did not reconjure her visions. This time she dreamt of the two men who were part of her crew, yet were not. Both immortals were extremely attractive, a fact she hadn't missed over the past two months. The creatures in her dreams were exquisite. They were splayed out on their bed as if for her inspection alone. Both men had fully engorged, rock hard, very impressive shafts. She stood at the foot of their bed studying the nude bodies. Methos was spare, but she could see the outline of every well defined muscle under his milky white skin. He had no chest hair and just a hint of hair on the rest of his body except for the full thatch that defined and outlined his penis. She could see the rise and fall of his chest as he breathed evenly and deeply. His legs were long and lean, somewhat like Tom's. She turned her attention to the olive skinned Adonis lying next to him. If Methos was lean with not a hint of roundness or a millimeter of extra flesh to spare, his bed partner was all voluptuous fullness. His muscles were well defined and well developed. She couldn't tear her eyes from the juncture of his lower abdomen and hips, every muscle defined so clearly she could name each of them if only she had a better knowledge of anatomy. His chest was no different, well developed pectoral muscles interrupting yet enhancing the smooth line of his body. She knew if she reached out to caress his nipples, she would feel the hardness of a well developed frame. He had a patch of hair on his chest and she ran her eyes down the tapering line pointing toward his groin like an arrow. She pulled her eyes back to his face and lost herself in the full lips. His face was rounder than the sharp planes that defined Methos' expression. He was simply beautiful. His head was framed by a long flowing slightly wavy mane of gorgeous chestnut hair. She willed them to move to each and they didn't disappoint her. It was her dream after all. Duncan rolled over and covered the smaller man with his body and initiated a deep soul searing kiss that was returned with all of its passion. Kathryn didn't think she could watch any longer without diving between them when the kiss suddenly ended. She heard whispered endearments between the two as Mac pulled Methos' legs to his chest. He hitched his partner's ankles over his shoulders while at the same time reaching down and stroking the length of the oldest man's erection. All she could feel from the men was a tenderness that spoke volumes of their love and commitment to each other. MacLeod began his slow entry into the tight channel of Methos' body, claiming his lips once again in a kiss. She imagined their tongues intertwining and dueling as the Scotsman kept up his slow steady rhythm in and out of his lover's body. She felt her own chest heaving as the two men approached a simultaneous climax. She woke up in her own bed, the sheets wrapped around her writhing form as the last vestiges of her dream induced orgasm wracked her body. She didn't realize she had such an active imagination or a voyeuristic fascination with the sexual activities of her crew. Her slumber was not interrupted again that night. She wasn't sure she if she was disappointed or not. --- She spent most of the next day in her ready room going over reports. Every time she saw either of the star players in her fantasy she couldn't suppress a creeping blush. The day passed in uneventful routine and towards the end of the shift she had reconciled herself with her dreams. She would just have to find an outlet for her own sexual tension. When she first saw Q in her quarters, she was immediately suspicious he had pried into her subconscious and had decided he could help her. She was still in shock from his visit when she called a late night meeting of the senior staff. --- It was twenty three hundred hours before the senior staff and the two newcomers assembled in her ready room. She had no trouble facing the objects of her dream without embarrassment. This was business. "It's late, let me get right to the point. I have just received an unwelcome visitor in my quarters. Q has decided to grace us with his company again." She paused to be sure she had everyone's attention. "He has leveled some very serious charges against Methos." Kathryn could swear she saw Methos transform in front of her eyes. His expression became rock hard as his body relaxed further into his chair. His eyes suddenly made him look all of his years. If she hadn't seen the shift herself she wouldn't have thought it possible. A darkness descended over his features before he spoke. "And Captain, what exactly is a Q?" "Q is a member of a race of omniscient beings we have met over the years. After the meeting look up all the information we have on Q. That doesn't matter right now, Methos. I am more concerned with his wanting to execute you." The Captain knew the effect her words would have on the assembles officers. She needed to get their attention and she did. Duncan was out of his seat shouting before anyone else could recover, "I'll no allow it Captain. If this Q wants a challenge, he'll have one." The Captain couldn't let things get out of hand. They needed to have a plan and Duncan needed to get ready if he were going to defend his lover in Q's farce of a trial. "Duncan sit down. I just said Q is omniscient. He is a non-corporal entity that assumes corporal form when dealing with humans. Whatever he decides to do we can't stop him. He doesn't exist at a single point in time. He exists in all points in time. We really have no understanding of what Q actually is." Methos seemed to have lost all emotion after Duncan's outburst. He was sitting in his chair with his hands in his lap. "When is he coming for me?" "Methos, I haven't even told you what he's charged you with. Aren't you even curious?" Methos' attitude did not bode well. If he capitulated this easily, was there some truth to what Q has charged? Or did he just see the futility in resistance? "It doesn't matter Captain. If an omnipotent being wants me dead and there is no way to defend against him, I am dead. I'm really sorry you've been involved Captain. Please do not allow him to kill me on Voyager. He must take me to a planet, preferably an empty one, to execute me." "Are ye mad Methos? Aren't you going to fight?" Duncan looked close to tears as he was yelling at his friend. "Captain," Commander Tuvok addressed Janeway, "If I may ask, what are the charges against Methos?" "Q has accused him of genocide." "Captain, that's not possible. What proof has Q offered?" Commander Chakotay refused to believe there was even a shred of truth in the charges. Methos was not capable of mass murder. More importantly, MacLeod would have killed the man himself if it were true. Duncan had a code of honor that would not allow him to be lovers with a slaughterer of innocent lives. Chakotay knew he was right, but what could they do about it? "It doesn't matter Captain, he will do with me what he will. Is that it then? I'll be in my quarters." Methos stood up to leave and was walking by the Captain when she reached out to grab his arm. She could feel the tension in his whole body as she clasped his wrist. "Methos, please sit back down, there's more." Tom had been silent throughout the meeting. He was startled to receive the Captain's hail at 2200 hours calling an emergency meeting of the senior staff. The whole conference seemed just too surreal for him to actually accept what was happening. He wasn't sure if he wanted to hear what more meant. The Captain waited until everyone was paying attention before continuing, "He's planned a trial starting tomorrow. Chakotay, Tuvok and I will comprise the tribunal. Q plans to prosecute and he wants Duncan to defend you. Methos listen to me. Q is an arrogant overbearing meddler in human affairs, but he respects our judicial system. This trial may be your only hope." "I don't plan on going through with this farce Captain. If he wants me, he can have me." Q appeared in the Captain's ready room in a shimmer of light. "No Methos, Kathy is right. You will get a trial. Kathy I didn't know you thought so highly of me, I'm touched. Arrogant and overbearing. If I didn't know you as well as I do I would have thought you were insulting me. However, I know you admire those qualities so I'll let it slide. I've decided to hold the trial beginning now. You know what they say, No time like the present." Q waved his hand and the Captain, Chakotay, Tuvok, and MacLeod all disappeared. --- "B'Elanna, you know Q will bring them back. He likes the Captain. He may not be fond of the Commanders, but he will bring them back. We just have to survive without them until he does." Tom was getting impatient with B'Elanna's outbursts. She was in full Klingon mode, raging at everything and nothing. She was barely restraining herself from tearing the ready room apart. He understood it was her way of dealing with situations that were out of her control, but Dammit they didn't have time for this! There was no way they could find Q or the rest of the senior staff. They needed to concentrate on what they could do. Right now they had to figure out who was in command of Voyager. They had been arguing for the past half an hour, but still hadn't come to any kind of consensus. Usually in a situation like this the Captain would have left someone in charge. The only three people on Voyager ranked higher than Lt. had disappeared and it was wreaking havoc with the command structure. They couldn't just sit dead in space waiting for the officers' return. They needed food and supplies. Tom was beginning to get annoyed with his crewmates and he was starting to worry about Methos. No one had heard from him since he had stormed out of the ready room immediately following Q's kidnapping of Voyager's three most senior officers. "Harry, do you know who is in command in a situation like this?" "Actually Tom, I was just going through the regulations to figure it out." "Well?" "The highest ranking officer with the most seniority is in command. I haven't gone through the crew records to figure out who it is yet. We have over ten full Lts. on board. I'm going to have to go through all of their records to find out when each was commissioned." "Just fucking great! That means we get the person who's been stuck at the rank of Lt. the longest. Who the fuck decided putting the most incompetent officer on board in command was a good idea?!?" "Tom, it's Starfleet regulation. I don't think this situation happens very often. We're just going to have to deal with it. Usually there's more than two Commanders on board each ship. A truly incompetent officer doesn't make the rank of Commander. We're in a unique situation here Tom, but I shouldn't have to be telling you that." Harry was always the last to lose his temper, but he was about to go over the edge as well. Seven had been unusually quite during the emotionally charged staff meeting. She could not understand the logic behind this unexpected twist in Voyager's command structure. "Ensign Kim, can we not assign someone from the senior staff?" "Seven none of us has the authority to assign someone to the Captain's position. We have to go by regulations. They're all we have." "It is not logical to put someone with no command experience in the Captain's chair. Since we are, as you say, in a unique situation, should we not have a unique solution?" "Seven it doesn't work that way." Harry was really starting to become agitated and only the beep of his console prevented him from losing his temper with his friends. The list of Lts. on Voyager was displayed to him in order of seniority. Tom, B'Elanna, and Seven all saw the Ensign's expression as he scrolled down the list naming Voyager's temporary Captain. B'Elanna broke the tension, "OK Harry, who is it, we need to know." "Tom Paris was the first Lt. on board Voyager to have been commissioned by Starfleet. Tom, you received your commission eight years ago." "Yeah, Har, and I got kicked out in the meantime. I don't think my time spent in the Maquis and prison counts as service to Starfleet. Who's next on the list?" "Lt. Brad Jamison received his commission the week after you, Lt. Joe Carey was commissioned the following day, and Lt. Sue Nicoletti the next week." Tom was sure he was going to loose his partially digested dinner all over the ready room. "Harry, no way, check again. The only way that asshole is going to be acting Captain is over my dead body!!!" "Sorry Tom, he's it. Do you want me to com him?" Everyone was looking to Tom to make the decision. He was the most senior officer left from the bridge staff. If they were going to break regulations it would have to be his call. Would they go along with him though? What would the Captain think when she returned and he had thumbed his nose at every regulation in the book? --- Methos was pacing in his quarters The three most senior members of Voyager's crew had disappeared with Q from the Captain's ready room two hours before. Everyone had assumed his 'trial' would be held on Voyager. No one expected the officers of Voyager to be kidnapped by Q. The remaining senior staff had no warning the Captain and Commanders were going to disappear and were still deciding who would command Voyager until they returned. He had to do something now. He wouldn't wait for Q to come back and execute him on the ship. His quickening would tear it apart. He had to get away from Voyager before they came back. Within minutes of the Captain, First Officer and Commander Tuvok's disappearance, he was back in his quarters packing everything he thought he'd need. He decided to steal a shuttle and ask Q to return it after he was dead. Methos harbored no illusions about the outcome of his trial. Q wanted him dead and Q always got what he wanted. Methos had spent the last hour going over Voyager's records on Q. He had held a trial the first time he encountered humans but the Captain of the Enterprise had convinced the omnipotent being that mankind had changed. They were no longer the barbarians killing for pleasure and possessions that had defined humankind's early history. One sentence from the previous trial had stuck out in Methos' mind. Captain Picard had told Q that all of those men lie dead and buried in the past. The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse made the men of Q's exhibits look like wayward children. The Horsemen had ridden for a thousand years reigning terror over two continents. Hell, they even got a mention in the Bible. There was no reason to believe he would survive this one. Fate is a fickle creature he laughed to himself. Over the past two months he was the happiest he had been in his entire six millennia. He could be Methos, the sometimes goofy, sometimes charming, very lovable, normal guy that he pretended he was. Fate had never been kind to him. No, that wasn't true. All three of the fates smiled on him the day he met the highland barbarian Duncan MacLeod. It was good while it lasted. Four hundred years was many times longer than he had expected to have with Duncan. With Duncan he could pretend he was a good man, the nightmares that defined his life somehow left him behind. He knew Duncan could never forgive what he had been, but the Highlander was willing to accept who he was now. The man's innate goodness and sense of morality seemed to be contagious. Methos had absorbed some of the other man's values and convictions in the intervening four centuries. He still couldn't believe he, Methos, had convictions. Survival had always been his bottom line. Nothing else was important. After he met Duncan he began to believe there were more important things than his continued existence. He knew his life was over the minute the Captain announced Q's charges. He could at least make sure his last moments didn't destroy his new friends. He picked up his things, including his three swords and two daggers and headed for the shuttlebay. He didn't plan on saying any good-byes. --- Commander Chakotay oriented himself to his new surroundings, not quite understanding where he was at first. He was not the only one in the room. Captain Janeway, Commander Tuvok, Duncan MacLeod, and Q were all there. The room itself measured about 700 square feet, was richly appointed and had a podium at the front. Chakotay found himself on the dais with the Captain and Tuvok. MacLeod was sitting at the table to his right facing the podium and Q was at the left hand table. Q was wearing a white wig and a black robe. Everyone else was still wearing the clothes they had worn on Voyager. After a moment's reflection, Chakotay was smart enough to figure out the trial was about to begin. Captain Janeway found herself sitting in the center seat on top of the dais, behind the podium, and was livid she was no longer on Voyager. What was going on with her crew while Q insisted on continuing this farce? She also noticed the other occupants of the room and grew even angrier, "Q, you've given us no time to prepare. Where is Methos? We will not try a man who is not here to defend himself." "Captain, he can't be here. He can't occupy the same space in the same point in time. You see, I am not going to tell you what his crimes are, I am going to show you." "Are we on the holodeck?" Chakotay did not understand what Q was getting at. This was not the way trials were conducted in the Federation. The accused stands before the prosecutor and is allowed to defend himself. "No, Commander Chuckles, you'll see soon enough. Kathy, I am going to make my case and then MacLeod here will be allowed to make his. That is, if he still wants to defend that monster when I am through with my prosecution." "Persecution is more like it. What is this place?" Duncan had never met a Q before and had no idea how he had ended up in this room. He didn't like it one bit. "Patience please. This is the first, and it will also be the last stop on our journey. I am going to take you on a tour of Methos' life so you can see him action. MacLeod, when I am through, you will have the same opportunity and exactly the same amount of time I used to present my case, to make yours. When we are both through, we will come back here to make our closing statements. Then you will all be returned to Voyager and Methos will be executed. Simple isn't it?" Q raised his hand to wave them on to the next stop on their journey, and in a flash of light they found themselves on Earth. --- Tom was on his way to Methos' quarters when he saw him walk out his door carrying a bag and head down the hallway. Paris shouted to his friend, but Methos quickened his pace and kept moving. Tom saw the security guards approach from the opposite end of the corridor with their phasers drawn and he hurried to the other end of the hallway hoping no one would shoot before he could intervene. "Methos, stop!! They will shoot you. Give me your bag, and let's go into your quarters, we need to talk." Tom believed his silent plea affected the older man when his words had not. He put his arm around his friend's shoulder and led him into his quarters, shooting a look of disgust at the security detail positioning themselves outside the door. "OK Lt. what's happening?" Methos had his arms folded across his chest, his back to the wall, and was glaring at Tom. "So it's Lt. again is it? Don't try to push me away Methos. Your looking at the master of that little trick. Besides, it's not Lt. anymore." Tom had thrown the bag Methos had been carrying onto the floor and backed him into the wall. "You can forget about going anywhere. You've been confined to quarters until Q returns our crew." "So they made you acting Captain did they?" Tom couldn't help snorting in disgust, "Yeah right! That fucking imbecile Jamison is the acting Captain. He ordered the security detail to shoot you if you resisted." "So. They can't hurt me." "Methos he ordered them to set their phasers on full. I don't think even you could survive your atoms being vaporized. His first plan was to kill you, thinking your death would prompt Q to return the Captain. When I 'diplomatically' opposed that plan, he removed me from duty and ordered me to quarters. I'm just glad I got to you before the security team did." Not an hour before, Tom had been in the Captain's ready room briefing the senior Lts. Jamison was more than happy to become acting Captain even though the man had no command experience. He decided killing Methos was the most prudent plan, and Tom went after him before anyone could stop him. The pilot threatened to kill the acting Captain if he tried to carry out his moronic plan. Tom mused. He had been stripped of his rank and ordered to his quarters and locked in. Tom knew how to get out of a locked room and had taken off his comm badge before he left so he wouldn't be detected sneaking through the corridors of Voyager. Harry picked that moment to enter Methos' quarters without ringing the chime. He was flanked by two security guards, but motioned them back into the corridor before they could follow him in. "Tom, Methos, I'm sorry." "Not your fault Harry. So what did Captain Stupid decide?" Tom figured he couldn't be insubordinate if he didn't have a rank. Harry looked from one man to the other, not sure how to answer. "He's ordered us to resume course. He knows Q can find us so we don't have to wait here for them." "Well, that's not so bad Har, what's the rest?" Tom had known Harry long enough to realize when he friend was not telling the whole story. "He's pretty upset you left your quarters and came here Tom. He ordered me to take both of you to the brig. I refused, and pointed out you weren't going anywhere. Seven and B'Elanna backed me up, and he backed down. So for now, you're both going to stay here. He thought it would be easier to watch you if you were together. He's really mad at you Tom, I don't know what you did to him, but he's pissed." "Isn't kicking the shit out of him in front of the bridge crew enough Har? And don't forget about our fight a couple of months ago. What are you holding back? I can tell Harry, out with it." "His next brilliant plan is to kill Methos if the senior staff isn't returned within a week." "Great!" Methos hadn't uttered a word since Harry came into his quarters but he had finally had enough, "Stuck on a ship with Bloody Fucking Captain Bligh. Don't tear this ship apart because of me, Ensign. Come on roomy," he continued throwing an arm around Tom's shoulder, "Let's go have my wake while I can enjoy it. There's a whole case of Scotch in here somewhere. Ensign Kim, get the door on your way out." After Harry had left and the two men silently downed their first two drinks, Methos outlined his plan to Tom. --- The first stop in Methos' past came as a surprise to Duncan MacLeod. He figured their trip down memory lane would begin and end with the Four Horseman. They had arrived in the bustling city of Babylon, though none of them knew it until Q filled them in. "To simplify matters, when we first arrive somewhere I will tell you where and when we are. Dates will be adjusted to reflect the Gregorian calendar, sorry but stardates are a stupid way to date time. No one can see us, feel free to wander around. I'll center us on Methos whenever we arrive somewhere new. We are now in the city of Babylon, the year is 1730 Before Common Era, from here on referred to as BCE. Our star player is over there. Just watch. One more rule, no discussion amongst the tribunal until you begin your deliberations. You can ask me direct questions unless I object, Kathy decides if I have to answer or not. That is the way these things work isn't it Kathy?" "Q, if you are so concerned with following the rules, you will refer to me as either Captain Janeway or just plain Captain." Kathryn despised feeling out of control, and Q's kidnapping of them and forcing them to decide whether Methos would live or die definitely qualified as being out of her control. She knew it didn't matter what he called her, but she needed to retain what little authority she could over the proceedings. Chakotay felt like a ghost walking among the living in the crowded city, but who were the ghosts and who were the living? He already had a headache from their trip into Earth's history, and knew it would only get worse. He followed the away team into a Palace and up to the front of the Great Hall where two figures were seated on a platform. One of the men was Methos, but Chakotay had no clue as to the other's identity. Captain Janeway was the first to ask Q a question, "Who is the man Methos is talking to Q?" "Captain, you don't really need to know, all you have to do is watch Methos. However, I'll satisfy your curiosity this time. That," he said pointing at the olive skinned dark haired man sitting on the throne, "is Hammurabi. Methos is his advisor. Now be quiet and watch, today is judgment day." Chakotay didn't know what judgment day was, but he was intent on watching the proceedings. About thirty people filed to the front of the great hall and the audience with the King began. The first man to bring his case described a problem he had with a slave. The slave had run away twice from the man's land and he wanted his property punished. Chakotay was surprised when the King allowed Methos to pass judgment. He was even more surprised when Methos carried out the punishment himself. The slave was quickly tied to a post and Methos pulled a long bullwhip out from behind the podium and approached the slave. The great hall was deathly silent as Methos began administering the lashes. He administered them with brutal efficiency. By the tenth strike of the whip the man's back was crisscrossed with deep bloody lash marks. The hapless man began to howl bloodcurdling screams of agony, the likes of which Chakotay hadn't heard since the Cardassian war. He had wished to never hear sounds like that again, but it was not to be. The screaming continued as the lash struck bloody flesh over and over again. The punishment ended after fifty lashes, but luckily for the slave he was unconscious for the last ten. He was untied and carried away. Methos calmly resumed his place next to the King and readied himself to hear the next case. Before the end of the day, three thieves had their hands chopped off and then cauterized with a glowing iron rod to stop the bleeding, twelve slaves were whipped, and one woman was executed for adultery. Methos had been the one to exact the punishment in every case. The trough built into the floor in front of the dais was covered in blood and three of the whipping victims were dead before their punishment was over. After the last case was heard and punishment administered, servants poured buckets of water to wash the blood and bits of flesh including severed hands into the trough to run out into the courtyard pit that led to the river. The long table along the side of the hall was set for dinner and a great feast was served. No one seemed to have any trouble eating even after having witnessed the bloodletting just before. Chakotay didn't understand what Q was up to. He didn't have enough knowledge of ancient Earth history to know if this were justice or not. So far he had seen nothing to confirm Q's charges of genocide against Methos. Yes, the punishment meted out was brutal, especially the beheading of the young woman accused and convicted of adultery with no proof other than the word of her husband, but this was a court of law. Maybe that was why Q had brought them to this time and place first? He didn't know. The away team followed Q outside as the feast began. They walked down the main thoroughfare and found themselves in a slave market. Chakotay had no intention of watching people sold as if they were animals so he headed over to a column with writing on it. He couldn't read what the tablets said, but felt Q move next to him. He looked back to the tablets and was surprised to see them written in Federation Standard. Most of the tablets stated the laws of the land, but it was the one inscribed into the base of a statue representing Hammurabi that caught his eye. It was inscribed with the words, "Let the oppressed man who has a cause Come into the presence of my statue And read carefully my inscribed steele." Chakotay immediately understood the tablets were there to let the citizens become familiar with the laws of the land, and of the consequences of breaking those laws. This tablet only absolved Methos of guilt, the citizens knew the laws and the punishments. So far he had seen nothing that would incriminate Methos. Maybe Q was just shocked by early man's brutal society. He had seen nothing that indicated Methos was no better or worse than his contemporaries. MacLeod must have been reading Chakotay's mind for when he questioned Q, he asked the question Chakotay wanted answered. "Q, that was a court and everyone knew the laws and the punishments. It was brutal, but it is their law. Why did you bring us here?" "Bright boy MacLeod, but let me spell it out for you. Your Methos has no problem meting out punishment to the guilty. He was judge, jury and executioner today. I expect you three," he swept his hand toward the Starfleet officers that composed the tribunal in front of him, "to do no less. Hammurabi's court was the first place the code of an eye for an eye appeared in human history. It's ironic isn't it? The code that is going to end Methos' six millennia all began right here and he invented it." Q was waving his hand in the air again and Chakotay braced himself for the disorienting jump through time. The last thing he heard before the city winked out was Q's voice saying, "Next stop, Rome." --- "Look Tom, it's the only way!!!!!" Methos was pacing again. The two men had already consumed one bottle of Scotch and were hard at work demolishing the second. Tom was so drunk he could barely move, but Methos seemed to not be affected by the large quantity of alcohol he had drunk. Methos was getting annoyed with the inebriated pilot. He had to admit his annoyance stemmed more from jealousy of the other man's ability to become blotto, than from anything the young pre-immortal had done. Methos picked up the bottle of Scotch and upended it into his mouth. "Tom listen to me. You saw the energy that comes out of my body when it's injured, that was nothing compared to what would happen if my head is separated from my shoulders. Voyager will go up like a super-nova, killing everyone on board. The same thing will happen if that idiot Jamison orders me executed. Who knows what will happen if he vaporizes me, and I am not sticking around to find out. I have to get off this ship before either he or Q can execute me. I am not trying to run away Tom, I understand the futility in that, but I can't let him kill me here." "Methos, why are you so sure you're going to lose? Mac is going to defend you, and Chak is on the tribunal," all of a sudden the blond man was laughing out loud at the inadvertent joke he had made, and Methos was not in the mood. "You're drunk Tom, and you're laughing hysterically. I'm glad you find my death and the imminent destruction of Voyager so amusing." "No, no, that's not what I'm laughing at, Mac and Chak, get it? It rhymes! Where was I? Oh yeah, Chak will not find you guilty for something you supposedly did three thousand years ago. Only two months ago he said to me and I quote, 'Tom, you did what you had to survive. You're a different person now Tom, it doesn't matter anymore.' I was a total fuck-up only four years ago and he said it didn't matter anymore, there's no way he'll convict you for something that happened three millennia ago." "Tom, you're slurring, and you can't even sit up. I'm putting you to bed. We'll talk about this tomorrow." Methos helped the younger man to the bed, undressed him and put him under the covers. He sat alone drinking Scotch for another hour before he joined Tom in bed. He lay there next to his friend thinking about what the young man had said. He didn't believe a word of it for a minute. Having been Death on a horse was not his only sin, and he sure didn't do it to survive. Tom just had no idea and even though he was only trying to help, he only made Methos feel worse. Methos felt arms come around him from behind and didn't fight to move away. He would take comfort from anywhere he could right now. He didn't care if the pilot probably thought he was Chakotay, the arms around him felt good. His life was over, so he would accept the small measure of comfort another human body brought to him. Even if he were not executed by Q, the Captain, Chakotay, and Tuvok would know he was a monster. He was going to have to leave Voyager no matter the outcome of his trial. The question is, would Mac come with him? Tom woke up to the sound of screaming from his bedmate. He was disoriented and confused. Chakotay never had nightmares. Every so often when Tom woke up screaming, Chakotay would get really worried about him and insist he talk about it. Chakotay told him normal people did not have terrifying nightmare's almost every night of their lives. If that were true, why was the big man screaming? He moved closer to the man laying next to him and gently shook him awake. He was surprised Methos was the one in bed with him but then the evening's events returned to his alcohol fogged brain. Suddenly gold green eyes were staring into his own blue ones. He wasn't sure if Methos recognized him at first and then saw comprehension course over his friend's features. "Do you want to talk about it?" "No, Tom, I don't." "It helps you know, I have nightmares every so often. I used to have them every night, but it's gotten better over time. I thought I was crazy when I first started having night visits from the three people I'd killed." "Tom, I've killed many more than three people in six thousand years, talking about it now isn't going to help any. Will you put your arms around me again? It would help much more than talking." "Sure Methos." they lay wrapped in each other's arms, both men being visited by personal demons from their past. Tom made his decision and hoped his friend would agree. "Methos, I'm going to help you steal a shuttle and leave Voyager. But, we're going to do it my way. Q won't execute you here and destroy Voyager in the process. Jamison is the one we have to worry about. If the Captain isn't back in six days time, we'll go. Before you say anything, I'm coming with you or I won't help. If Q decides to go through with the execution, he'll send me and the shuttle back here, I know he will. If they decide you're not going to be executed, we'll come back on our own. You can't do it without my help so that's the way it's going to be, understood?" "Let's talk about it tomorrow. Good night Thomas." --- "OK kids, welcome to Rome, we're skipping around in time a bit because I plan to use Methos' own flair for the dramatic to make my case. Start small and build. It's 95 AD and that' s the Coliseum. Follow me." Q led the small group through the crowds until they were in Methos' box high above the arena. Q had outfitted himself in the clothing of the time and he would have passed as a Roman centurion if anyone could actually have seen him. "Come on, sit down you don't want to miss the show." Chakotay was actually beginning to enjoy himself. They were seeing the ancient wonders of Earth in all their glory. His enjoyment didn't last long. The field began to fill with gladiators all wearing different colors. The box they were sitting in was festooned in indigo bunting and Chakotay could see some of the combatants on the field wearing the same color tunics. The first contest was a one on one fight between a man in a maroon tunic and one of Methos' gladiators. It was quick and bloody. The man in maroon was on his knees and the victor looked up at his patron for direction. All eyes in the house turned to Methos and with an evil grin he raised his arm in front of him with his palm down. His grin became even wider as he slowly made his hand into a fist with his thumb out to the side. He held it there for a dramatic pause and suddenly turned his hand so his thumb was pointing downward. The crowd roared and his blue-clad gladiator decapitated the man kneeling before him. The crowd was ecstatic as the blood spouted from the man's neck. The severed head head rolled a few feet before coming to rest. A young page impaled the head on a long spike and then stood the spike upright into the ground. Without pause, Methos' gladiator turned to fight his next match. He won three more matches and Methos spared none of the other contestants. The fourth match found Methos' champion on the loosing side of the battle and he was not spared either. The bloodletting continued for hours, without even a break for lunch. The spectators ate in their boxes while heads flew from bodies on the field. Methos was hand fed his lunch by a young slave woman, no more than a girl, dressed in a skimpy tunic. Intermission began soon after lunch was put away. Lions were loosed onto the field and soon people were thrown into the arena. It was over in minutes leaving half eaten bodies strewn about the field. Once again young pages were sent in to clean up and the afternoon's entertainment began. This time it was teams of gladiators fighting each other. Methos' blue team was the first on the field, facing an even numbered team of olive clad men. The battle took half an hour and the blue team was victorious. Once again, Methos did not spare a man. His own team had taken heavy casualties, leaving only two of his gladiators uninjured. They left the field to allow other contestants to take up arms. Three more battles waged, but no other teams were slaughtered by the victors. Two of the earlier successful teams reentered the field and fought to the death, leaving the maroon team victorious. Methos' blue clad team came back onto the field bolstered by replacements to again make their number five. They faced a team of green outfitted gladiators and made short work of them. Once again all the losers were put to death. Another intermission began, and again the entertainment consisted of feeding unarmed people to lions. The crowd roared as the lions decimated the humans on the field. Soon the last round of fighting began, pitting the blue tunic wearing men against the maroon. This time there were ten men of each team on the field. The battle raged for over an hour, finally leaving only four combatants standing. All four men still on their feet belonged to Methos and the crowd gave them a standing ovation. While the spectators were still going wild, Methos left his box. Q motioned the away team to follow him as he made his way down to the staging area. Methos went to his team and threw gold coins to the four men still on their feet. He quickly checked over each injured man he owned, motioning one of his guards to his side. He pointed to three of his injured and ordered the guard to kill them. He didn't stay to watch. Q waved his hand and they found themselves inside Methos' house. It was a palatial home built of marble, decorated with mosaics and statuary and filled with slaves. The main dining room was where they found themselves and it was filled with guests. The head table was occupied by Methos and five other men, gorging themselves on the banquet laid out in front of them. They were served by slave girls and boys who were wearing so little clothing they were practically nude. Q walked over to the head table and beckoned the others to follow him. Chairs appeared out of nowhere and Q sat down in the one closest to the conversation that was going on in front of them. "Methos", a man who was obviously a Roman Senator addressed the victor of the days bloody match, "what crawled up your ass today? Hmm.... You didn't spare a man, usually you leave us guessing." "I was bored. These games are getting dull, there's no drama left to the matches. And the lions, what fun is watching unarmed people fighting the beasts? We know what the outcome will be before it even begins." Methos picked up his goblet, found it empty and grabbed the nearest serving girl by the wrist, "My glass is empty wench, where is my wine?" He backhanded the shaking girl across the face, knocking her to the floor. Another girl came scurrying up to the table to refill his empty goblet, backing out of his reach before he could inflict the same punishment on her. "Mark my words Antonius, Rome is in decline, and I do not plan to watch her fall. The decline of popular culture into the lowest form of entertainment has always marked the fall of Empires." He looked around the room as the feast was turning into an orgy and gestured towards the crowds, "Look at them, and remember when Rome falls, you heard it here first . The barbarians moving across the northern reaches of the Empire are not soft like the men of Rome." "Ah, Methos, you are in a foul mood tonight, while you brood, I will feast for the both of us." The Senator laughed at his dinner companion, but Methos was not in a laughing mood. He grabbed the slave girl closest to him, pulled her onto his lap and began to savage her mouth with his lips. He just as suddenly threw her to her knees in front of his chair and lifted the hem of his tunic, baring himself in her face. He grabbed the back of her head and she knew what was expected of her. She engulfed his flaccid penis in her mouth and began to suckle him. Captain Janeway could not watch any longer, she stormed out of the dining hall, with her two officers right behind her. MacLeod was rooted to the spot. His lover was growing hard and forcing himself further into the girl's mouth, the brutality of the act forcing Mac into action. He reached for Methos to pull him away from the girl, but his hand just passed through his lover's form. With a disgusted snort he turned on his heels and joined the others outside. Q followed them to the patio and studied the faces staring back at him. "We're spending the night here, and we'll follow him around the city tomorrow." "Q, I've seen quite enough, get us out of here." Captain Janeway was angrier than she could ever remember being in her life. Q could not expect them to continue to watch Methos murder and rape and do nothing about it. "Oh, no Kathy, the best is yet to come. You wanted this trial, remember that over the next few days. I would have spared you this, but you insisted. We continue to the end. MacLeod, don't try to interfere again. You can do nothing about what is happening. These events are part of history, and you are just an observer." --- The crew of Voyager spent the night at Methos' estate, sleeping in an empty room. Q provided them with food they could eat, and they settled in for the night. Not one of them slept very well. Kathryn dreamed of lions tearing into her flesh, waking her from a sound sleep every hour. Chakotay was visited by visions of heads flying off bodies over and over again like a broken vid loop. He didn't wake from his dreams, suffering all night with his surreal visions. Duncan never even made it to sleep. He knew Methos had a checkered past, but this he wasn't expecting. The nonchalant brutality of the man he was seeing overtook the picture of his lover in his mind. He was surprised to find Q next to him when he went to sit on the patio to get some fresh air. "MacLeod, you are the one who wanted to know about his past. You're dying from curiosity to find out about the man you've spent the past four hundred years with, but you can't face his demons. Why do you think he never answers your questions? Good luck defending him." Q left him alone and he finally fell asleep under the stars that blanketed the night sky of ancient Rome. --- The next day found them following Methos through the city. His first stop was in the slave markets, purchasing new stock to replenish his gladiator force. He examined the slaves in intimate detail, picking and paying for six of the strongest looking young men in the market. He visited the female market next, but didn't find anything he wished to purchase. They followed him to the Roman Senate where he slept through the day as arguments raged around him. He looked utterly bored as he visited with acquaintances over lunch and then returned to the senate to sleep through another session. Dinner progressed much as the evening before, but Q made the officers follow Methos to his bedchambers afterward. He wouldn't let them leave as Methos raped one of his new gladiators, a youth of no more than nineteen. Methos only managed to look bored while he pleasured himself on the young man's body. He went through the motions, handed the slave a gold coin for his troubles and kicked him out of his room. The second night of the trial was spent in the same room as the first, but this night no one would sleep. Captain Janeway curled up in a corner, lost in her own thoughts, unable to look the other members of the away team in the eye. Commander Chakotay was attempting to meditate, but could find no peace. Tuvok was deep into his own meditations and would stay that way until their next destination. Duncan was sitting on the porch again, quietly mourning the man he thought he knew. He had to keep reminding himself that his Methos and the monster they were witnessing were not the same man. If he couldn't make the distinction, he would never be able to defend the oldest living immortal when his turn came. The thought that Q was building up to the worst of the man's past came suddenly into his mind and he began to think he could not bear to continue to watch his lover's history. He wondered when they would get to the horsemen. Day three of the trial dawned with the away team still in ancient Rome. Q provided food once again and sat thinking about where to take them next. No one could find any words so they sat in silence until Q decided their next destination. "Hurry up and eat, we're about to move on. I think two or three more days should finish my case and then it will be MacLeod's turn. That is, if he still wants to defend the man. Remember, the worst is yet to come." --- They spent the morning of day three in the waning years of the third millennia BCE, watching Methos rape and pillage his way through society. He owned slaves in every city they saw him in, always playing the master. He was inevitably cruel to his possessions. This was the prosecution's presentation, Kathryn reminded herself. The prosecution always got to present their evidence first and it was the defense's job to refute it. The law presumed innocence until guilt was proven. Maybe having the defense's evidence as the last thing they saw was the way of evening the odds. There was no way the man she witnessed over the past three days and the man she had grown to know and like over the past two months were one and the same. It just wasn't possible! She had to remind herself that these events transpired anywhere from three to five thousand years before, but the realization was no comfort to her troubled soul. Duncan was the only member of the away team who noticed Methos' slaves were always well fed, and carried no disfiguring marks on their bodies. Most of the other slaves seemed undernourished and had varying degrees of disfigurement to their persons. It was a small consolation in the face of the man's actions, but one he would remember. It was in the city of Uruk that they saw Methos pretend to be a God. He lived in a Ziggurat and called himself Enki, God of wisdom and giver of life. The small party arrived in Uruk at noon on the fourth day of their travels through human history. Q informed them they were in the year 3250 BCE, then left them in silence to observe. Chakotay interrupted the silence with his first question since they had left the courtroom. "Q, I'd like to know how old he is right now. What year was Methos born?" "I'm surprised Commander, what an intelligent question. The answer is he is old enough to know better than to pretend to be a God. He was born in 3637 BCE, so if you did the math you would realize he is almost 400 years old. Any other questions? No? Good, now watch." A crowd was gathering in front of the temple of Enki, the water God and giver of life, known to the invisible observers only as Methos. All of the attendees at the ritual were carrying offerings to him, placing them on the ground at the foot of his temple, continuing through the circular procession until they were back in their original places. The procession held over a thousand worshippers offering payment to their God. Scribes were recording, in the first written language used by man, the offerings of grain, animal skins, and children. It was the sight of children being lined up to be sacrificed that finally pushed Captain Janeway over the edge. She demanded Q remove them from this place before the sacrifices began. He refused. They stood rooted to the ground as acolytes of the God slit throat after throat of non-resisting child in the name of their Lord Enki. Blood was collected in a miniature moat around the sacrificial stone, but for what purpose, Kathryn could only imagine. Her imagination could not conjure a scene as horrific as the one her eyes witnessed after the last of the children was sacrificed to the God, the bodies tossed onto a pyre to be burned later. A second God, this one calling himself Enlil, the creator of all things, including the lesser God Enki, stepped to the podium from the shadows of the monolith. He motioned for Enki to join him, then slit his throat from ear to ear, mixing the immortals blood with the blood in the moat. He laid Methos out on top of the bloodied sacrificial stone and began to chant over him. Methos revived moments later to the hushed awe of the crowd. Enlil had risen Enki from the dead, and the circular procession began anew. This time the crowd was not making offerings, but dipping their fingers into the blood surrounding the stone. The horrified away team watched as the people brought their bloodied fingers to their mouths and licked the red liquid from their digits, devouring every last drop. When the last of the blood was consumed, the festivities began. The Gods retired to the temple leaving their followers to their revelry. The away team had just witnessed the worshipping of the first God ever created by man, but were not aware of the significance of the ceremony. They wouldn't have cared even if they knew. The only two members of the small party not regurgitating their lunches were Q and Tuvok. The fourth night was also spent in the city of Uruk, but they had once again jumped forward in time. --- Q informed them they were now in the year 2014 BCE. Methos was no longer pretending to be a God in this most ancient of all cities. He was now a general in the army of Gilgamesh, the first great leader of recorded human history. They spent the day watching Methos lead the charge into village after village, capturing slaves and raiding communities. The whole of the known ancient world was being united under Gilgamesh and Methos was leading the army. When they first arrived in Uruk, the King was a young man of perhaps five and twenty, but over the next few hours, as Q advanced them through time, the King becoming an old man before their eyes. Only Methos remained the same. Kathryn Janeway considered herself to be a student of history and literature and knew the epic of Gilgamesh from her readings of the classical world. She had a question for Q as she ran a passage of the first known epic through her head. She recited the passage to the away team from memory: "The heroes, the wise men, like the new moon have their waxing and waning. Men will say 'Who has ever ruled with might and power like him?' As in the dark month, the month of shadows, so without him there is no light. O Gilgamesh, this was the meaning of your dream. you were given the kingship, such was your destiny; everlasting life was not your destiny." "Q, did Methos write that?" "Captain, the answer to that question is not necessary for you to determine the guilt or the innocence of the man you must judge. We are going to a place of luxury to sleep tonight, for tomorrow, I begin the final argument of my case. I think two days in the life of the man called Death should suffice. I hope you all know how to ride a horse. I am warning you now, it won't be a pleasant experience." --- Tom was at the desk in the quarters he was sharing with Methos, hard at work putting the finishing touches on his plan for their escape from Voyager. He had to work through his entire plan in his head before he could start working at the computer terminal. He spent the past four days perfecting his ideas and he was ready to begin the implementation phase of his plan. His computer hacking skills hadn't gotten much practice since the time he went undercover on Seska's ship, but he knew he could pull it off. It would take hours for Voyager's crew to repair the cascade failure he planned for the warp drive and sensor systems. He had briefly considered disabling Voyager's weapons as well, but couldn't bring himself to leave the ship defenseless, even if it would only be for a few hours. Now, he just had to work on the transporters so they could actually get from their quarters to the shuttle. He thought he had overcome the last obstacle and decided to start hacking his way into the main computer core when Methos broke his concentration. "Tom, you know we have to go tomorrow don't you? We can't wait until the last minute." The immortal hadn't said much in the past five days and of course he would pick this moment to interrupt Tom's work. Actually, Methos hadn't done much of anything since the night they had gotten drunk together. He had only left the bed to use the facilities and allow Tom to change the sheets. He was not sure Methos would have even fed himself if the task was left up to him. "Yeah, I know. I think it's going to take me six hours or so to hack into the computer. I thought it would take allot less time, but I can't risk leaving any trace. I don't want to even start until I'm sure it will work and we're ready to go. The best time to leave will be at the changing of beta and gamma shifts. We have about twelve hours before we have to go, I'm going to try to get some sleep before I start hacking. Do you want to leave a message for Duncan explaining why we left?" "Are you leaving a message for Chakotay?" "Yeah, and one for the Captain too, I have to let her know how to find us. I've got both of them already written. You can add to the one to the Captain if you'd like." "Tom, I'm probably not going to be on her good side when she comes back, no matter the outcome. Just tell her I'm sorry." --- The first thing Kathryn Janeway saw when she found herself in the middle of a primitive Earth village was smoke. Her previous memory was of the room Q had provided her with the night before. She woke to find herself crouched on the ground surrounded by fire and smoke with no warning. She could make out human figures running all around her, but couldn't see the rest of her away team. She heard the screams of the villagers, smelled the smoke in the air, and felt the ground shaking under her feet. The screams of terror were the worst of all. Intellectually, she knew she could not be harmed by the events unfolding in front of her, but the fear overtaking her mind was based in a much more primitive place than her intellect. She had to find her crew! She began crawling across the ground, hoping to find them, when she saw the raiders responsible for the terror in the village. There were men on horseback riding through the camp, swinging weapons at any villager they could reach. Men, women, children, armed, unarmed, running, standing, kneeling; it did not matter. They were all cut down without prejudice. The rider closest to her rode his horse through her body to mow down a group of women running away from the center of the camp. She hadn't seen them until the raider went after them. Her reflexes reacted without direction from her brain and she found herself splayed out flat on the ground once again. The man began swinging an ax in an arc over his head, separating heads from bodies as he rode his horse through the crowds. He looked more beast than man. Above the noise made by the shrieking of the dying she could hear him laughing. He was having fun. He beheaded the last of the four women running away from him, turned back to the center of the village and searched for more targets. The noise around her was dying down as was the smoke. She finally saw Chakotay. He was across the camp from her putting his own body in front of a group a children on the outskirts of the camp. She could only stand and watch as a second raider rode through the Commander's ghostly form and ran every one of the youngsters through with a sword. This man was not Methos either. He was a giant of a man, with blond hair, riding a black horse. His hair flew out behind him as he rode his horse to the next group of villagers in his bloody path. His face was painted the same color as his horse's mane. She made her way through the smoke to Chakotay, now kneeling on the ground, his face in his hands. Where were MacLeod and Tuvok? Chaos still reigned over the camp and she could not find them. She became Captain Janeway again and pulled Chakotay to his feet. She shook him until he recognized her and then pulled him toward the center of the village. There were bodies everywhere, yet the raid continued. Another rider swept past them headed to the center of the tiny village where the few armed men of the tribe were making their final stand. Tuvok and MacLeod were standing side by side, rooted to the ground watching Methos and the fourth horseman battling the men. It was a one sided fight, the mounted men had a deadly advantage over the underarmed peasants. The last of the men was cut down within minutes of the start of the massacre. The Four Horseman rode around the camp, making sure there were no survivors. They circled the huts for a few minutes yelling battle cries, then rode off. The absolute silence that descended over the camp would have convinced the Captain she had dreamt the whole sequence were it not for the grisly aftermath laid out in front of her. Duncan MacLeod of the Clan MacLeod was powerless to halt the slaughter around him. His hands were reaching over and over again for a sword that was not there. He was a ghost in this time and place and could only watch as the people around him were massacred by his lover. The only person who could see him was Tuvok and the Vulcan was just standing there watching the carnage unfold. Methos and Caspian were butchering the few men who even tried to stand against them. It didn't matter, run or fight all of the villagers were going to die. This group of eight men were at least dying as men and not beasts led to slaughter. It didn't matter, they were dead just the same. Duncan still couldn't move even after he watched the Horsemen leave the camp. He saw movement out of the corner of his eye and spun around hoping it was survivors, but it was Captain Janeway and Chakotay. The four officers met in the middle of the camp, no one saying a word. Commander Chakotay stood in shock, surveying the carnage around him. He couldn't shake the picture of the horseman riding through his body to slaughter the children he unconsciously tried to protect. He heard screams in the unnaturally quiet camp, but realized they were echoes in his mind of the bloodbath that was now over. He did the only thing he could. He began the ancient wail of lament that had been passed down to him through his people over the centuries. He was unaware of his surroundings until a second mourning cry joined his own. It was in a language he didn't recognize, but he knew the mourner was Duncan. The Captain and Tuvok allowed them to continue to the end of their song. There was still no sign of Q. --- Again, without warning, the away team found themselves in a new place. They had been left in the decimated village for over an hour waiting for Q to appear, but he never did. They met up with him again in the camp of the four horsemen. Q had set up a campsite for the Voyager crew next to Methos' tent. He had coffee and food waiting for them, but none of the away team would even look at him, never mind accept his offerings. He waited for them to talk to him, growing irritable as the minutes passed without their acknowledging him. He could stand it no longer, "Welcome to the campsite of the Four Horseman Of The Apocalypse. The year is 692 BCE and they have already been raiding together for over 200 years." "Q," Captain Janeway couldn't control her anger with the omniscient being any longer. "The Four Horseman are a Biblical legend, they didn't exist. Where are we really?" "They didn't exist Captain? You just saw some of their handiwork with your own eyes. The rode together over two continents for almost a full millennia. Right now we are on the plains surrounding the Black Sea, and the Myth has its base in fact. MacLeod already knew the horseman were real, and he knew Methos was one of them. He himself killed two of the others. If he had killed Methos when he judged the man's accomplices guilty, none of you would be subject to any of this right now." "Q, I did not judge them for who they had been two thousand years before I was born, they died because of what they were trying to do in the twentieth century. Methos has changed. The man he was has been gone for three millennia now." "Then why do you hide your weapons and lock him in your quarters every night?" Duncan was opening his mouth to answer Q, but Tuvok intervened, "This is not the time for debate. You are supposed to be presenting evidence Q, not making closing arguments. Unless you are done? Does the prosecution rest?" "Oh, no Tuvok, we've only just begun here. We will be spending the next two days following these animals through time. Then MacLeod will get his turn. --- "Methos, wake up, it's time to go." Tom shook the oldest immortal awake and handed him his clothes. They were already packed, and were ready to beam aboard their waiting shuttle. They were going to have to have perfect timing to be successful. The away team had been gone for six days and Jamison was planning on following through with his plan to execute Methos the following day. Tom was sure he had sabotaged the main computer core enough so they could escape, but everything now relied on a little luck. It was the middle of shift change, and they were about to transport directly into the shuttle. Tom had programmed the shuttle to power up at the same instant their transport began. The cascade failures in all systems were supposed to begin simultaneously with the opening of the shuttle bay door. He took one last look at his companion. Methos was pale and looked thin, but also looked determined to carry out his role in the plan. Tom would continue to manipulate the computer until they were actually out of the shuttlebay and Methos' job was to fly the shuttle. They had each packed enough clothes and rations for three weeks. If they were gone longer, they were going to have to find supplies. Methos had packed his armaments as well as his clothes. He had left a long message for Duncan, but he hadn't told Tom what was in it. In the end he had ended up leaving a message for the Captain, but Tom couldn't understand why Methos was leaving the Captain some books and the access codes to his diaries still in the main computer of his original ship. Methos had also insisted Tom bring along his bat'leth. Tom was getting very good with the Klingon version of a sword, his practices with B'Elanna paying off through his ability to impress Methos with his skill. Tom packed two phasers, a med kit, and two EVAC suits as well. All in all, he was happy with his preparations. He never lost faith that his friend would be found innocent and they would be back on Voyager before too long. He made sure he was prepared for anything just in case. It couldn't hurt. "Ready Methos?" "Yeah, let's go." Tom tapped a few controls on his computer terminal and began the transport. The next ten minutes would forever be foggy in his memory. Everything had gone according to plan until their shuttle was outside of Voyager. The tractor beam had been disabled and so had the warp drive. Voyager was left with impulse power, shields, life support, and weapons. The main sensor array would be down for at least six hours, letting them get out of long range scanning range long enough for Voyager to lose them. Just as their shuttle was about to jump into warp, Voyager fired its weapons. The first blast from the phaser banks missed them completely. Voyager was visually targeting the shuttle because sensors were down. Methos entered the command to send them into warp just as Voyager reacquired its target. The second phaser blast hit the small shuttle as Methos engaged the warp drive. Tom couldn't believe his shipmates had actually fired on him. When he found out who it was that gave the order, he would take care of it. After all, he would be back on Voyager within the next couple of weeks. --- On the bridge of Voyager the red alert Klaxons were still sounding. Tom didn't know Jamison was on beta shift that night. Tom didn't think anyone on Voyager would fire at their shuttle, but he was wrong. Jamison manned the weapons controls himself when he realized exactly who was aboard the fleeing shuttlecraft. By the time Harry and B'Elanna stumbled onto the bridge, the shuttle was gone. There was a message from Tom on every console on the bridge and after Harry read his friend's words, he wanted to kill the acting Captain. "Jamison, did you read this before you fired on Tom's shuttle?" The young Ensign didn't care if he was being insubordinate, he was ready to kill. "Ensign you are out of line." "I am? I don't think so. You're under arrest." "You can't arrest me." Jamison looked around the bridge for support from the crew, but found none. Harry Kim, Mr. Regulation, had a phaser pointed at him and was committing mutiny! --- Dinner around the Voyager's campfire in the Horseman's basecamp was as quiet as lunch had been. They had advanced fifty years in time every hour, and were now in the third century BCE. They had watched the Horseman bring destruction across southern Europe without mercy. Chakotay was trying to eat his dinner, but couldn't bring himself to eat anything. He kept seeing Methos holding down a young man while Caspian cut his heart out and then ate it while it was practically still beating. Chakotay had been becoming numb to the horror he was witnessing. Q realized all of them were no longer losing their meals when they watched his evidence. He made sure the last thing the officers saw that evening was the act of cannibalism. Methos had captured a young woman in the same village, killed her and brought her to camp. The woman must have been an immortal because she revived soon after arriving in camp. She seemed to not know what she was and Methos was taking great pleasure in killing her every time she disobeyed him. Each time she thought she was going to die, she would revive with him laughing in her face. MacLeod had known who she was the minute he saw her, calling her Cassandra. She was Methos' new toy. He would sometimes bring young men or women back to camp and keep them until he got sick of them and he killed them. He looked like he planned to keep Cassandra for a long time. They could hear her screaming from Methos' tent, and once in awhile they could hear him laughing. Kronos, the leader of the horseman, went to Methos' tent but paused before entering. He stood at the doorway for a few minutes before turning around and leaving. Kronos was a frequent nighttime visitor to Methos' tent, but the away team never heard anything to give away what was going on within. They could have easily went to see, but none of them ever did. --- The next morning found them again advancing through time. The Horseman had moved on to the steppes of western Asia, hitting camp after camp of the nomadic peoples who lived there. In the first raid the away team witnessed that day, Methos was struck in the chest by an arrow shot by a young boy of about ten. Before he died he told Kronos not to kill the child until he revived. When Methos revived, the child was staked out on the ground waiting for him. Chakotay knew whatever what was about to happen wasn't going to be pleasant. "Are you the young pup who shot me?" Methos was standing over the frightened child, leering at him. The boy was shaking and had wet himself. "Do you know who I am child? Did you think you could actually kill me?" Methos bent down and grabbed the boy by the hair. He took his knife from his belt and began to stroke the boy's face, holding his knife to the suntanned throat. With a quickness Chakotay hadn't expected, Methos plunged his knife into the boy's heart. He was dead in minutes. Methos sat on the ground next to the boy and waited. It took about half an hour for the child to revive and when he did Methos was ready. All he said was, "You'll be joining your family now." He slit the boy's throat through to his spine, snapped the bones in his neck, and continued slicing until his head was separated from his body. Energy shot out from the body and enveloped Methos. The energy amounted to little more than static cling, but Chakotay realized he had seen a quickening. The other three horseman had watched the whole incident. When Methos was through, Caspian picked up the head and punted it across the clearing. They left the body tied up where it was. Kronos pulled Methos to him and said, "Well done brother, we'll have one less to worry about now." It had seemed to Chakotay as if they spared some of the people in the villages they came across, but he realized they were picking out immortals who hadn't had their first death, killing them and then beheading them. Duncan had come to the same conclusion and was sickened by the realization. He knew Methos didn't always play by the rules, but to hunt down pre-immortals and kill them as children? Was that the purpose of the Horseman's raiding, or just a perk? He would have to ask Methos if he ever spoke to him again. He was going to defend his lover in this trial. His honor would let him do no less, but he wasn't sure if he was ever going to be able to look at the man again. He would deal with that problem when the time came. Right now, he didn't think the old man had a prayer in hell of escaping Q's sentence. All Duncan had to do is look at the faces of the three members of the tribunal to know how they felt about his lover. They were going to side with Q. He could see it in their expressions every time they were forced to watch Methos in action. The only one he couldn't read was Tuvok. Maybe he had a chance with the Vulcan. He knew this was the last day of Q's presentation and he had a plan for when his turn would begin. He didn't think it was going to work, but it was the only one he could think of. He was sickened by what he had seen, but he had seen messy death before. Mac wasn't sure if the people from the twenty fourth century had ever witnessed this level of up close and personal violence in their lives. Shooting people with phasers and fighting space battles was not the same as the brutality of face to face killing. After they had stopped for lunch, not that anyone ate, Q addressed them again. "We have three more visits to make with Methos and I'll be done. We'll rest for the night in the continuum, and MacLeod will begin his defense tomorrow morning. Next stop, 229 BCE." --- Tom and Methos were in trouble. Their shuttle had been hit by phaser fire from Voyager, but they hadn't noticed until they had been at warp five for six hours. The first hint of trouble was the shuttle abruptly dropping out of warp. The damage had been minor, just a tiny crack in the structural integrity of the starboard nacelle, but they were forced to eject the warp core before they lost the warp containment field. "Oh, Oh, the Captain's going to kill me, we can't afford to lose another shuttle." "Ask Q to fix it for you. He should be here soon enough." Methos was letting Tom pilot the shuttle and had moved to the single bunk in the back of the small craft. "Are you hungry?" "No, but I am tired, I haven't slept much in the past two days." "Well come on back here, I think we'll both fit." Methos noticed Tom's reluctance to join him in the single bunk, but didn't say anything. He watched the pilot have an internal argument before he made up his mind and joined his friend on the bunk. He moved around to get comfortable, but got back up after only five minutes. Methos sat up on the bunk and motioned for Tom to sit next to him. "What's wrong Tom?" "Nothing." "Tom, what's wrong?" "I can't sleep in this bed with you." "Why not?" Methos knew why, but pretended not to. He would let Tom lead the way. "I love Chakotay." "And?" "I think I love you too, and I can't handle the temptation anymore. We've been sharing a bed for a week. Do you know how hard it's been for me not to touch you? I can't do that to Chak." Methos let out a long sigh while he thought about how to handle the situation. He sincerely believed he was going to die. He had an idea of what the tribunal would think of him and didn't think they would try to stop Q from killing him. People that were born and raised in the twenty fourth century would look at his life from their perspective. He had killed so many people over the course of his six millennia that he couldn't even begin to guess how many had actually died by his hand. Q would tell them what he had been. What to do about the young man in front of him though? If he was going to die, he didn't want to have any regrets. But which would be the regret, taking comfort from the pre- immortal, or not acting on his desires? "Tom, I'm going to be dead anytime now. I think Chakotay would understand. I know Duncan would. Just lay down, I promise I won't do anything." "Methos, I trust you, it's me I don't trust." "What I mean is, I've been getting turned on by holding you while you sleep. I'm surprised you haven't noticed. It's weird Methos, I feel like you understand me. You don't judge me and I never feel like I'm not living up to your standards." How to explain this without calling his character into question? Methos saw all the shades of gray in the world just like Tom did. Chakotay tended to think in absolutes. Something was either right or wrong, there was no in between for him. Chakotay wouldn't understand if he acted on his impulses towards Methos. "I'm not saying you don't have standards or ethics Methos, I'm saying you don't think in black and white. Chakotay tends to think in binary terms. you know 0 or 1, on or off, right or wrong. Being faithful or cheating." "Duncan's the same way Tom. But he understands that I am not exactly like him and he accepts me for it. Chakotay accepts you the way you are. You need to realize that Tom, or the two of you won't have a future together no matter what happens between us. Did you ever tell him the reason for your fight with Jamison?" "No, I didn't." Tom saw the look of pure exasperation on Methos' face and had to qualify himself, "It's not that I don't trust him, it's more like I don't want to tell him everything about me. I'm afraid he won't like what he hears. Pretty stupid huh?" "No Tom, it's not stupid. There's allot of things I never told Duncan about my past either. You need to trust Chakotay the way he trusts you. When Duncan and I first became lovers, I tended to not trust him. He believed in me even though I gave him no reason to, but I never returned that trust. I have seen too many things in my lifetime to ever totally have confidence that another person won't take advantage of me. I trust him not to kill me, or hurt me physically, but there should be more to it than that." "I've already lied to him, I can't tell him the truth now." "What did you lie to him about Tom?" "I don't want to talk about it." "OK fine, can we share the bed?" Tom nodded, and stripped down to his underwear before getting into the bed with Methos. He probably should talk about what was bothering him. He wasn't lying when he told Methos he thought the older man understood him. He knew Methos wasn't asleep yet, "Methos, I've not only lied to him, but I've withheld information. He asked me why I thought I was a bad person and I told him I didn't know. I do know. The therapist in prison helped me to figure it out. It sucked having to talk to someone I didn't know, but it sometimes made it easier to talk about. Do you remember your mother Methos?" Oh, this boy cuts right to the quick of things doesn't he? "No, Tom, I don't. Do you remember yours?" "Most of the time no, she died when I was three. She was the only person who ever loved me until Chakotay." "You don't really believe that do you?" "Methos, I'm pretty unlovable. I'm cocky, I have an uncanny ability to lie, I manipulate my friends, and I don't really have any ethics. I made a lot of mistakes before I finally started learning from them. How could anyone love a man like that." Methos turned his back to the pilot and stared at the wall. Tom had just described Methos, and he was really hurt by the last question. Tom didn't know what he had done. One minute his friend was talking to him, the next minute it was as if he didn't exist. "I'm sorry Methos, I don't know what I did wrong, but please talk to me. If you let me know what I did, I won't do it again, I promise." "Tom you didn't do anything wrong, all you did was tell the truth, and the truth sometimes hurts." "Methos, I don't want to lose you. I'm just getting to know you. Why won't you defend yourself against Q?" "Because there is no defense for the man I was. The only thing I can say is that man no longer exists. Not much of an excuse, so I won't offer it." Tom snuggled up to his companion and drifted off to sleep thinking about his own past. --- "Is everyone ready for our last stop with the Horsemen? You don't look ready, but too bad. It's now 45 BCE and the Horsemen are about to split up, but first, they have a little more damage to do." Chakotay really was getting numb to the slaughter he was witnessing. Seeing heads fly from bodies, women being raped, children being killed didn't affect him the way it had three days ago. He knew what was going to happen, and tried not to watch too closely. He had to remind himself that all the people he was seeing were long dead. All except one. Methos led the charge into the village himself on this day. After the usual bloodbath, Silas was looking around the camp. The Horseman usually didn't take anything with them after a raid. They would once in a while take prisoners, but they were nomads and didn't let their camp swell to a size that would make it hard for them to keep moving. They had conducted their usual raid, setting everything in their path on fire and killing everything that moved. Silas liked to take in animals after all the people had been killed, so that was probably what he was looking for. What he found was a hole dug behind one of the dwellings. There were people hiding in it, no not people, children and babies. There were five of them. Chakotay would live with their faces imprinted in his mind for the rest of his life. Caspian came over to see what his blood brother had found, and helped Silas drag the children into the middle of the square. There was a young girl, no more than eight or nine carrying an infant and holding the hands of a toddler. She wasn't crying, but the younger children were. The screams of the infant must have annoyed Caspian because he grabbed the baby from the girl's arms and threw it into the nearest burning dwelling. If he meant to stop the screeching of the baby, it didn't work. The dying child's screams were seared into Chakotay's memory forever. Methos killed the toddler with his sword while the infant still screamed. Kronos claimed the young girl as his. The other two children that had been hiding were already dead, killed by Silas. The away team stood watching as the horseman rode out of yet another ruined village. No on said a word. Kathryn was crying, Tuvok was lost in meditation, and Duncan had left to wander down to the stream, Chakotay followed him. He found him sitting on the bank of the small river with his arms wrapped around his body. Kathryn wasn't the only one crying. Chakotay went to sit next to his friend to offer what little comfort he could. "Chakotay, I don't think I'll ever be able to look at him again and not see all of this." Duncan swept his hand across the horizon to show what he meant. "I knew about the Horsemen, but knowing about them and seeing them in action are not one and the same. How am I going to defend him?" "Duncan, I'm on the tribunal, so I shouldn't be talking to you about this. All I can say, is you have to try and show the man you know. You have to know some good things about him. Remember why you fell in love with him and take it from there." Q popped in between the two men, cutting off their conversation. "Touching sentiment Chuckles, but nothing overrides this butchery, and he knows it. You'll have six days to make you're case MacLeod. I'm taking the rest of the troupe to an outing to the twentieth century now, and you're not invited. You were there so you can't come with us. We're going to Seacover." They arrived at their next destination only minutes after witnessing the last horror. Kathryn realized at once they were no longer in the bronze age and was grateful. She wondered where she was this time until Q started speaking. "We are in North America at the end of the 20th century. We just have to listen to one conversation and then I'm done. Here they come." The first person they saw was Methos. He was dressed in jeans and wearing a sweater much like the one they had seen him wearing on Voyager. He was carrying a bag and went to a car, he loaded his things into it and was about to get in when Duncan MacLeod caught up to him. He spun the smaller man around until they were face to face. The three members of the tribunal moved in closer so they could hear the conversation, Duncan spoke first. "Is it true Methos?" "The times were different, MacLeod. I was different. The whole bloody world was different, okay?" "Did you kill all those people?" "Yes. Is that what you want to hear?" Pauses. "Killing was all I knew. Is that what you want to hear?" "It's enough." Duncan started to walk away, but Methos garbed him and threw him against the truck. "No. It's not enough. I killed, but I didn't just kill 50, I didn't kill a hundred . . . I killed a thousand. I killed tens of thousands! And I was good at it." He began to smile and changed his tone, talking as if he were enjoying the conversation, "And it wasn't for vengeance. It wasn't for greed. It was because I liked it." He let MacLeod go, and chuckled to himself, "Do you know who I was? I was Death." He was still laughing as Duncan grabbed him and pushed him against the car. "Death. Death on horse. When mothers warned their children that the monster would get them, that monster was me. I was the nightmare that kept them awake at night. Is that what you want to hear?" The answer is yes. Ooh, yes. It was me." Without warning, the away team found themselves back in the courtroom they started in, Duncan already waiting for them. Q stood up and addressed the officers, "The prosecution rests, the defense starts tomorrow." --- Methos woke up to the sound of quiet sobbing coming from the man sharing the bunk with him. He opened his eyes expecting Tom to be awake and was surprised to find him still sleeping. He lay there quietly, letting the younger man's dream run its course but ready to return the comfort that had been given to him when he experienced his own night terrors. Tom stopped crying and started thrashing around the bunk, inadvertently kicking his bed partner. He started moaning, "No! No!, Please Stop, Please!" and just as suddenly went back to softly crying and chanting "no, no ,no," under his breath. Methos knew better than to wake up a man in the midst of a nightmare. He had struck out at Mac while still in his own dreams often enough to know how dangerous it was to disturb a man in the grip of one. He couldn't stand it any longer, and had to do something. He didn't touch the man next to him, just started softly calling his name until he was released from his terror. Tom blinked his eyes open, but still took a moment to figure out where he was. Methos stared back at him, waiting for the younger man to speak. "Sorry I woke you up." Methos' tone was much softer than his words when he spoke, "Shut up, you fool. I've been waking you up every night for days now. What brought this on, Tom?" "I don't know," he lied. "Well I do. It was our conversation from earlier wasn't it? I know what you lied to Chakotay about, Tom. Do you want to talk about it?" "I'm nobody's victim, Methos." "Tom, I understand that more than you could possibly imagine." They lay there in silence for a few minutes, Methos pulling the younger man into his arms, cradling the blond head between his collarbone and chin. "It happened the second night I was there. They caught me in the rec. room and I had no idea what was about to happen, I guess I was pretty naive. I couldn't even imagine people still did that to each other. It was a Federation penal colony for God's sake, it wasn't supposed to be like that. When they were done, they left me laying there in my own blood. The day after I was released from the infirmary I started selling myself. They were going to take what they wanted anyway, so I might as well have gotten something out of it. I couldn't tell Chakotay because I didn't want him thinking of me as helpless. He would picture me broken and bloody, unable to protect myself. It was easier to pretend it was my idea." Tom was no longer crying, but he refused to look at Methos. " It's bad enough to be known as a whore, but I refuse to let anyone see me as a victim. They'd never look at me again without picturing me like that . It was a long time ago Methos, it really doesn't matter any more." "You're right, it doesn't matter, but that doesn't mean you'll ever forget. Thank you for trusting me with part of yourself." He cupped his hand around the man in his arms chin, and pulled his face up to look him in the eye. "You're not damaged goods, and I don't think you are a whore. Sometimes the only way to get through an unpleasant experience is to shut yourself off until it's over, then put it behind you and go on with your life. " He was not going to kiss the man he was trying to comfort. He ached to kiss the man in his arms, but wouldn't. Tom had only hours ago confided his attraction to Methos and his resulting guilt for feeling that attraction. Methos wouldn't force the issue, no matter how badly he wanted his own comforting from his friend. He didn't have to force the issue. Tom had obviously made some kind of decision, because he snuck in a gentle kiss while Methos was still trying to control his own desire for the man in his arms. Methos had to end this. He couldn't let Tom's momentary emotional neediness force him to do something the Lt. would later regret. He pulled away from Tom before he spoke again, "Tom, I don't think this is a good idea. Just a few hours ago you were telling me you couldn't do this to Chakotay." "I won't lie to him if he asks, but I can't regret not having had this with you. I think Chak will understand, and if he doesn't I'll find a way to make him. Don't you want me?" Methos' only response was to pull Tom against his body so he could feel the evidence of the immortal's desire for himself. "I've been hard since you got into bed with me. I've been laying here feeling like an ass because while you were telling me about being raped, I had a raging hard-on for you. Of course I want you Tom. Now, what are we going to do about it?" Tom felt as if a heavy weight had been lifted from his soul. He had never told anyone what had happened to him his first week in prison and the confession was cathartic. Methos wasn't disgusted with him, hell he even still wanted him, "Well, let's review the situation, I want you, you want me, and we're on a shuttle alone together for who knows how long. Is that about it?" "No, you forgot the part about us both having incredibly understanding supportive lovers who most likely won't begrudge us for finding comfort where we can. And if they do, we'll explain that we don't mind if they comfort each other. You know, trade indiscretion for indiscretion." Methos was halfway kidding, but Tom understood. Methos suspected Mac might not want anything to do with him when he returned to Voyager and he was still convinced he would never see his lover again. He didn't think Q would let him say goodbye. With just the slightest twinge of guilt he leaned down to kiss the man next to him. Tom had already decided Chak would understand, so he returned the kiss offered him without regret. He had always considered himself to be an excellent bedpartner and was especially proud of his skills in the kissing department, but he knew he was outclassed as soon as his tongue was in Methos' mouth. He wouldn't have been able to put words to what he was feeling even if he tried. Nothing existed except for the connection of their mouths, he couldn't even feel the body in contact with every inch of his own. He had no idea how long it lasted, the kiss ending only when he reached his climax. Methos was in no better state. They got up and removed their soiled underclothes and climbed back into the bunk together, Methos lazily running his hand up and down Tom's abdomen, seemingly lost in thought. His question, when he asked it, sounded a little odd. "Tom, are you flexible?" "Uhm, yeah, I guess so, why? Methos climbed over Tom who was on the outside of the bunk and made his way to the shuttle's replicator, "Just don't move, I think this will work, I haven't tried it in a long time though." When he climbed back into the bunk, he was grinning from ear to ear. He had a tube of lubricant in one hand and a fluffy pillow in the other. He motioned for Tom to lift his hips, and placed the pillow under his lower back. He sat on the edge of the bed and started stroking Tom's inner thigh. Tom was semi-erect just from the anticipation and the touch on his thigh lit him on fire. Methos continued to pet him, watching him grow harder without touching him where he wanted to be touched most. When Tom was fully erect, Methos bent down as if to examine him. Tom was getting curious, "What are you doing? Do I measure up?" "Yeah, actually I think it will be a perfect fit. Your hips are a little wider than mine, so I'll be on top. Don't move a muscle or I'll stop, OK?," He finally put his hand on Tom's groin, lubricating his cock with the oil, while performing the same task on himself. He readjusted the pillow beneath Tom's hips before climbing back onto the bunk. Tom was leaning on his elbows so he could watch Methos. He was pretty surprised when the older man straddled his hips, but facing in the opposite direction. He was even more surprised when the immortal laid down the length of Tom's body, face down. Tom shifted his weight on his elbows only to be reprimanded, "Ah, Ah I told you not to move, didn't I?" "I can't help it, I'm curious." "Open your legs as wide as you can." Methos settled himself between Tom's spread legs, putting one of his own legs under Tom's body and leaving the other one on top. He wrapped his feet around Tom's chest, lifting his ass in the air. Tom was starting to get the picture, "Uh, Methos, I don't think this is going to work." "I know what I'm doing, now don't move until I tell you to. This takes a little work to get set up, but it's worth it." Methos reached under his own body to take his cock in his hands and aligned himself with Tom's opening. "Oh shit, I forgot to loosen you up." Things were becoming a little too clinical for Tom and he felt himself softening as he waited patiently for Methos to do whatever he was going to do. Until he felt the slippery finger penetrate him, that is. His cock had relaxed to half-mast, but sprung back to attention as the second finger entered him, feeling around for his prostate. He started wriggling around under Methos, but got a nudge with a foot that was wrapped around him, reminding him to stay still. "Hey, Tom, return the favor would you, then don't move." Those were the last words Tom was capable of understanding. Methos entered him just enough to be sure he wouldn't slip out, then reached around to guide Tom into him. Methos adjusted his body so he was directly between Tom's legs, but Tom didn't notice. He was penetrating and being penetrated at the same time. Methos managed to choke out a command not to move before he too became incoherent with lust. He began to rock back and forth, not really moving very much, but the dual sensations didn't require much friction to be mind-blowing. Tom couldn't stay still any longer, not believing Methos could actually stop if he disobeyed and moved. He unconsciously matched the rhythm Methos had set for them, creating even more heat. They were both shouting, their voices echoing off the metal walls of the tiny shuttle as they came one right after the other. Tom felt his orgasm building, then blacked out at the peak of sensation. He regained consciousness only to find Methos still in the same position, still passed out. He lay there panting, waiting for Methos to respond. When he finally did, they untangled themselves, and Methos moved back to the top of the bunk to lay next to the man he had just almost figuratively fucked to death. Neither one of them spoke for ten minutes or more. "Wow Tom, I haven't tried that position in a long time, I forgot exactly how intense it is. Are you still with me?" "I never understood why Chakotay passes out during sex before. Where the fuck did you learn to do that?" "I don't know, I've always known how. I guess I had a good teacher. It only works if the two people are about the same size, that's why I was checking you out. It doesn't work with Duncan, he's too muscle-bound around the abdomen and ass to get that close to each other. Tom, let's not try that again for awhile, I think I pulled a muscle." "You!? I think I'm permanently bowlegged now." They fell asleep taking turns laughing, forgetting for just a little while why they were on the shuttle in the first place. --- Morning found the away team back in the courtroom, Duncan preparing to begin his defense of his lover. He wasn't sure if he knew enough about Methos' life to be able to pick the scenes that would convince the tribunal not to execute him. The only thing he could do was try to refute the evidence Q had submitted. He looked around the room at the assembled officers, and if outward appearances were any indication of their states of mind, he was fighting a loosing battle. Captain Janeway had lost weight in the six days they had been gone and she had black circles under her eyes. Chakotay looked like death warmed over, and even the unflappable Vulcan was showing signs of fatigue. Q just looked smug. Everyone was waiting for Mac to begin, but he wasn't sure how he was going to start. He came up with an idea and was ready. "Q, I would like to see Methos as a child, in the village he was born in." "You're wasting your time MacLeod, the clock is ticking." "Humor me Q, I want to be able to tell him where he was born. He doesn't remember, and I would like to give him that last gift." "Fine, it's your turn now, waste all the time you want." Chakotay braced himself for the disorienting shift in time he knew was coming. He closed his eyes, and didn't open them until he felt a cool breeze kissing his skin. When he opened his eyes to look around, he saw a small village nestled between mountains and the sea. He heard children at play in the shallows of a small cove and turned his attention to them. There were three young boys and four young girls splashing in the water, laughing as they played. He couldn't pick out which one was Methos. All of the children had dark hair and light skin. He couldn't see their eyes, which he considered to be Methos most recognizable feature, well besides that nose . None of the children looked to have that particular characteristic, or maybe they just hadn't grown up enough to see it yet. They all still had the rounded faces of babyhood, and were playing in the water without a care in the world. A woman walked toward the beach and called the children to dinner. There was a peace in the camp that Chakotay hadn't felt since his own boyhood when he had played much like these children were. For a minute he forgot he was in Earth's Stone age, the timelessness of the scene taking over his awareness. He was enjoying the first peace of mind he had found in a week when Q broke the silence. "How long do you want to stay here MacLeod?" You haven't told us where we are yet, you have to do the same as you did when you were presenting your side." "All right, we are in the year 3630 BCE, the naked boy still in the water is Methos and he's seven years old. We are somewhere between the Mediterranean and Black Sea in an Akkadian village too small to have a name." Duncan watched the boy he knew as a man playing in the water until the image was imprinted in his memory. He would ask Tom to help him program this scene into the holodeck when they returned to Voyager. Somehow just seeing Methos as a child renewed his faith in his lover. He would convince the tribunal Methos deserved to live. He knew he could. The only problem was he was going to have to show them things Methos thought no one else knew about his past. Duncan thought back to the double quickening he and Methos had shared when they defeated the last of The Four Horsemen together. For an instant Duncan was Methos and Methos was Duncan. He discovered more than he ever wanted to know about his lover in that brief connection, and had battled for years to subdue some of the man's more traumatic memories. He called up all the images he had denied over the past four hundred years and was ready to start the defense. "Q, I want to see the first time Methos met the man who called himself the God Enlil. This was not going to be pretty, maybe he should warn the others. Methos would probably not speak to him for centuries after the oldest immortal found out Duncan had shown these moments to them, but right now it didn't matter, he wanted the man to live even if it meant losing him for a time. He braced himself for what he thought he was about to see, knowing the reality would be allot more difficult to face then the jumbled fragments of memory he had received from Methos. Methos said he remembered nothing from before he took his first head, but Duncan knew he remembered feelings and emotions, if not specific details. The immortal only known to Mac as Enlil owned the first head Methos had taken and Duncan knew the man had played a pivotal role in Methos' life. Mac's first plan was to try and temper some of what Q had shown them, then try to show the man he knew, rather than the monster they had witnessed. --- "Methos, wake up." Tom was shaking Methos awake, and he didn't look happy. "What's wrong?" "I'm not sure, we're losing power in all systems, I've started looking for a planet to set down on, but I'm not having any luck. You pilot while I scan." It took them almost a whole day to find an M-class planet and in that time, their shuttle systems began to fail one after the other. The planet looked promising, but the star it was orbiting was giving off too much gamma radiation for complete scans. The atmosphere was breathable and they didn't have many options. If there was a civilization on the planet, they would deal with it when they landed. Methos had tried to banish Tom to the back of the shuttle where he would be safer in the impending crash. Tom, of course, had argued, insisting he was the better pilot. Methos won the argument by pointing out he couldn't be permanently killed in a rough landing, so he would pilot the shuttle. Tom couldn't refute that logic, but had forced a compromise from Methos. He would help pilot until they entered the planet's upper atmosphere, then strap himself into the rear of the craft where he would hopefully be safer. The landing was not going well, not only was the shuttle dying, but storms in the upper atmosphere were obscuring Methos' view. He was piloting by sight, the sensors and navigation systems having already failed. Methos thought he was going to be able to set down without ripping the shuttle apart, but he didn't see the mountain in their path until it was too late. The shuttle slammed into a cliff face about 50 meters from the ground before falling to the valley floor. He had been strapped into the pilot's seat, but the pilot's seat was thrown from the shuttle with him still in it. The shuttle split apart between the main cabin and the crew section, and Methos could only hope Tom was all right. The only concern he had for himself was how painful this particular death was going to be. The first injury he felt was his crushed skull when the seat he was still strapped into was hurtled into a very large tree. He hit it head first at fifteen miles per hour and his vision went black. The only thought he had time for was pretty funny considering the circumstances. His body slammed into the tree and he died instantly. Tom was little better off in the back of the shuttle. When the fuselage split apart, his seat belt was torn from its anchor and he was thrown out the gaping hole where the rest of the shuttle had been. Flying through the air was the last thing he remembered. He didn't feel anything when he hit the ground and parts of the shuttle buried him. --- They away team materialized in the courtyard of a large stone house. Duncan didn't know what city he was in, or the year. He had only asked to be taken to the time and place that Methos first met the immortal who called himself Enlil. Q kept his part of the bargain and filled them in on where they were. "Uruk, 3620 BCE." Q sounded petulant, and Duncan had to remind himself that the man was omniscient so probably knew exactly what Duncan was up to. There was a man sitting at a shaded table in the courtyard being served lunch by two slaves. Duncan immediately recognized Methos as one of the servers. He didn't recognize the man eating lunch. He had been able to feel the Horsemen in the camp even though they couldn't see or feel him, so he wasn't surprised when he felt the buzz of another immortal. A young immortal, but one none the less. It wasn't Methos, Duncan had felt Methos' pre-immortal buzz when he first arrived in the courtyard. The man who entered was the man he hoped to see. "Ahh, Lochial, it's you. And how was the Nile?" "Same as always Esrial, how have you been these past years?" The old friends continued with their pleasantries until the one called Esrial beckoned to Methos to serve them more wine. "Esrial, where did you find this one? He is exquisite." "Ah, I acquired him ten years ago when he was no more than eight or nine harvests old. I had another just like him, but the child proved impossible to train so I sent him to the fields. This one has been very profitable for me." "Yes, I can see the customers liking this exotic one. Is he well trained?" "He's very biddable, he doesn't eat much, knows how to scribe and do sums. He has been working in the brothel since before he had hair on his balls. He turns a nice profit, and the older customers seem especially fond of him. Are you interested? I have to warn you though, if you harm him, you will pay for the days he can't work. I remember what you did the last time you were here Lochial." "I'm not interested in renting the boy, I want to buy him." "He isn't for sale at any price. You haven't even sampled him yet, what makes you think you would want him permanently?" During the entire conversation, Methos just stood there pouring the men wine and then serving desert. He didn't seemed concerned that he was being discussed as livestock. He went back to his place in the corner and didn't seem interested in listening to the talk of his services being sold or rented.. "I'll give you ten horses and twenty bushels of grain for him Esrial, even you have to know it's a fair price. He is getting older and won't turn such a handsome profit much longer." "Then he will continue to do sums for me and help with the record keeping. I'm not selling this one to you Lochial, you can forget the idea. He is my favorite." "I will have him even if it means killing you to get him. Take the trade while it is still offered old man." The immortal had risen to his feet and drawn his blade while threatening the other man. "Lochial, relax, is this the way you treat the cousin you haven't seen in ten years? I didn't realize you were so serious. Put down your sword, make it twenty horses and thirty bushels and he is yours." Methos was close enough to hear the whole conversation, but still had no reaction. It was as if he were a deaf mute. The tension at the table was instantly gone, the men had known each other since childhood and knew each other well. Esrial had seen his cousin commit many acts of brutality over the past forty years and knew when he was defeated. He would at least get a handsome price for his favorite possession. "Let me keep him tonight to say good-bye and he can leave with you in the morning. I expect payment within the week cousin." Duncan turned to speak to Q, "I've seen enough here. Show the two hours leading up to his first death." They arrived at a house much like the one they had just been in. Q let them know it was two years later and they were in the city of Ur, a few hundred miles away from Uruk. It was getting dark and the away team made their way into the house following behind Q. He led them to a bedchamber where Lochial and Methos were. Methos was filling a large tub with water for his master. When the tub was filled, Lochial climbed in and Methos began to bath him. Methos was nude as he bathed his master, and there were vivid bruises and scars all over his body. Two years ago when they had seen him last, his flesh was milk white and unmarred. Methos washed his master's hair and then helped him out of the tub, toweling the other man off as he stood unmoving. Duncan couldn't help but be reminded of the times Methos had done the same for him and was upset to realize that his lover had performed the ministrations of a body slave on him. He didn't understand at the time exactly what the pampering represented. He vowed to never let him do it again. Duncan knew what was coming but was still shocked when it happened. Methos was led to a large pillar in the middle of the room and his hands were tied around it. He obediently spread his legs when the master kicked his feet apart, holding his position when the man walked away from him. Lochial came back with a whip and began lightly striking him, not drawing blood. "Methos, I want to hear you scream tonight, no holding back. The louder you scream, the sooner I'll finish. Now don't fake it Little One, I can tell." He began to whip him in earnest, but Methos hadn't started screaming yet. It looked like an old game and Methos knew the rules. But, he didn't scream even when blood began streaming down his back. Lochial was growing hard inflicting pain on the man in front of him. He used Methos own blood to lubricate himself and began pounding into the splayed figure still tied to the post. "I can't hear you Methos, are you defying me?" The words were soft but the tone deadly. "I told you I wanted to hear you tonight, boy." He continued to savage the body beneath him, but Methos remained silent. Lochial began to slam Methos' head into the pillar he was leaning against, battering his face. Duncan could hear the crack from across the room when Methos' nose was broken against the stone pillar. He still did not utter a sound. Lochial stopped fucking him and untied him from the column. His face was a bloody mess to match his back. Lochial had grown soft, needing the terrified sounds of his victim to maintain an erection. He was determined to get what he needed. He left Methos' crumpled body in the spot he had fallen when he was released from the restraints and went over to a table and picked up a knife. "Little one, you are disobeying me? Haven't you learned anything in two years? This would be allot easier on you if you just behaved yourself. What's brought this on tonight? You usually scream so sweetly." His tone as he spoke was deceptively calm, but he brought his knife to Methos' chest and held it between the clearly defined muscles of the still hairless chest. Duncan always wondered why Methos was practically hairless. He couldn't possibly have been only nineteen when he suffered his first death, he looked so much older. Duncan had to remind himself that men born in Methos' time were considered middle aged at twenty five. Nineteen in the stone age was clearly adulthood and it showed on Methos' features. He had missed Lochial cut Methos while he was thinking about his lover's age. Methos was bleeding from a deep wound on his left breast, but he still wasn't making a sound. Lochial was growing angrier by the second. His normally submissive possession was challenging him. He hadn't planned to bring Methos over for a few more years, but he was soon losing all rationality. He began carving lines all over Methos' chest and abdomen just to get a reaction. But it wasn't working. It was as if he had gone somewhere else, his mind unreachable by the man torturing him. Lochial had worked himself into a murderous rage and began pounding the back of Methos' head into the marble floor. He would make him scream or kill him, it didn't matter anymore. If he killed him earlier than he had planned, it would just make it easier to abuse him as the torture would no longer mar his beautiful, but easily marked skin. He stopped what he was doing for a moment and examined the man laying on the floor in a growing pool of blood. He still wasn't making a sound. Lochial picked up his knife again and plunged it to the hilt into Methos stomach. That brought the reaction he had been seeking. Methos yelped as if in shock, but then smiled. He knew what he was doing, he had planned this for weeks. He knew if he pushed his master far enough, Lochial would murder him, releasing him from the torture that had defined his life over the past two years. Lochial stabbed him again and again, but Methos didn't utter another sound. Finally, Lochial stopped, pulling the knife from the heart he had just buried it in. He picked up Methos' still form and dumped him into the tub, then pulled him out and dropped him onto a clean spot on the floor, calmly sitting down to a mug of ale to wait for Methos to revive. It took about twenty minutes for Methos to gasp and sit up to look around him in shock. Lochial walked over to where he lay and smiled at him. "Surprise, you're not dead. You don't get to die until I wish it, and I'm having too much fun with you to let you die just yet, Little One." Methos stared up in awe at the man towering over him. It took him a few moments before he could speak, "You can raise the dead?" "Oh yes Little One, I can raise the dead, you are mine forever. Never forget it! Now where were we? Oh yes, you were going to scream for me, but first, go clean up the mess you made, there's blood everywhere." Duncan made his way to Q who was leaning against a wall looking bored, "Get us out of here now Q. Take us somewhere quiet and peaceful until I decide where we are going next. I don't care where, just get us away from here now." Duncan sat alone in the garden Q had taken them to for what seemed like hours. He knew he was wasting the time he needed to show the Methos he had know for four hundred years. He didn't think he could go through with his original plan. Watching Methos being brutalized was worse than watching him inflict pain on others. How could he continue this farce? What was the Q really after anyway? Was this idea of some type of sick game? Would showing the twenty-fourth century Voyagers more of Methos' life even help? He could feel them becoming immune to the violence. How to reach them? He wasn't trying to absolve Methos from the crimes he had committed, just show he was different now. Would continuing to show his horrible past accomplish that goal? Sitting cross-legged in his favorite yoga position under the spreading leaves of a giant oak for three hours gave him a sense of balance and relaxation he hadn't thought possible. He was ready to continue. He decided to change his plan of attack, but before he could, he had to undo some of the damage Q had already done. He could make it through some more of Methos' unpleasant experiences if he could only show why Methos had become the man he did. He would only visit the places Q had already shown them, giving the bigger picture of those events to the away team. It would have to be enough. He made the decision not to parade any more of Methos' humiliation in front of them if he could help it. But how was he going to ever put the visions of Methos being brutalized and tortured out of his mind? He would worry about that later he decided. He set himself to his task with a sense of purpose he hadn't felt for days and moved over to the glen the rest of the people were resting in. "Q, I'm ready to continue. I believe I still have five days left. I am not going to rest for the night until any of you ask me to. I want to get this over with. For now, I want you to take us to the hour before and the hour after the temple scene you've already shown us. I'll let you know after that where we go next." Chakotay didn't know what Duncan was planning, but he could see the change that had come over his friend after his meditations. He would be surprised if he knew he and Duncan had shared some of the same thoughts. Chakotay couldn't help but feel that Q was using all of them, but had no idea for what or why. He had picked up a smooth stone from the creek he had been wading in while he waited for Duncan to settle himself. He would use it as a worry stone, then make a carving on it for Methos when they got back to Voyager. At least it gave him something to do. He hated this feeling of shuffling through history, they didn't belong here disturbing the graves of the long dead. Dredging up an ancient and rightly buried past was wrong. He consoled himself with the thought that when he figured out what Q was really up to, he would feel much better. He braced himself for the shift in time he was about to experience, locking eyes with Duncan, trying to reassure him. He realized he was drawing strength from Mac instead of the other way around when everything faded out again. --- They reappeared inside the temple and could hear the crowd outside through the thick walls. The inside of the Ziggurat was furnished befitting the home of a God. Methos was chained by one foot to a pillar much like the one they had seen him at just hours before. The difference was that for Methos four hundred years had passed. Four hundred years of serving a cruel, sadistic bastard. He still had no idea what he was and still thought Lochial was a God descended to Earth. Duncan couldn't believe Methos was roughly the same age Duncan had been when the two of them first met. He still seemed like a child. Mac couldn't help but wonder if he was ever released from his bonds except for when he was sacrificed again and again as the symbol of Enlil's divine greatness. He had to shake the thought from his mind. He needed to stay focused and dwelling on Methos' pain was not going to help him achieve his goal. His only purpose right now was to prove that Methos was not the guilty party in this scenario. The human sacrifices in Methos' name had greatly disturbed the tribunal and he planned to show them the whole story instead of the damaging half-truths Q had shown. "Ahh Methos, you're awake, are you ready for the ceremony?" Lochial began rapidly closing the distance between himself and where Methos was tethered as soon as he realized the man was awake. He didn't even give Methos a chance to wipe the sleep from his eyes before he pounced. He savagely kissed the man still chained to the pole, roughly flipped him over and impaled the thin pale form with his rigid cock. Methos didn't even whimper. Mac got the feeling that this was a normal course of events in the lives of the two men. "You're going to be good today aren't you Little One" Lochial was still pounding into the yielding form beneath him as he spoke to the seemingly mute man. He had one hand on the back of Methos' neck to brace himself, and the other on the prone man's hip. He pulled out the ceremonial dagger that he would slit Methos' throat with an hour later, and began to score his back. No wonder the procession honoring Enlil ended with the consumption of blood, the man had a fixation with the vital fluid. After he scored Methos' back with enough thin lines to let the blood flow freely, he bent over the still unmoving form beneath him and licked the droplets of blood coming from the marks. The blue energy surrounding the healing cuts arced into his mouth as he devoured the blood. Not only was the man an immortal, but he was most likely the basis for vampire myths. Duncan began to wonder how he could possibly have detached himself from the scene playing out in front of him enough to wonder how a myth began. A movement in another corner of the temple caught his eye and he saw a young man moving around, setting out robes for the two men still fucking. Mac could feel the young immortal signature of the blond man in the corner and was surprised to discover Lochial had taken on another sacrificial lamb. Lochial finished pleasuring himself on the submissive form beneath him and went to prepare himself to become Enlil. Methos crawled on the floor behind him, only rising to have his robes wrapped around him by the other servant. He got back on his knees and Duncan heard his lover's voice for the first time since he started his defense. He was surprised when he realized Methos had not spoken in any of the scenes he had witnessed so far. Methos was speaking in reverent tones to his Lord and Master. He was on his knees, head bowed to the floor and everyone moved closer to hear what he would say. "My Lord, please, will you allow me to die tonight? I have served you faithfully over the seasons, and Cideo is now trained to serve you. I am begging my Lord, please let me die tonight." "I will consider your impudent request Little One." He walked over to the prostrate form in front of him, yanked him into a sitting position by his hair and looked into his eyes. "I have considered it, and the answer is no. And for daring to ask anything from me, you will be punished tonight after the ceremony. You serve me Methos I do not serve you, you would fare well to remember that. Now go outside and greet the worshippers. You looked bored last week, maybe a little preview of what is to come will make you more interested. After all, who will serve a God who doesn't show any passion." As Lochial was speaking, he went over to a chest and pulled out a marble representation of a male organ. It was at least eight inches long, three inches in diameter and the cold hard marble was gleaming in the candle light. He kicked Methos onto his stomach and pulled up his robes. Without even so much as a word beforehand, he slammed the phallus home. Methos apparently been well trained because even though he winced, he didn't make a move to escape. He was dragged to his feet, the marble cock still buried within him and taken to the door. He was led out onto the altar by Cideo and the ceremony the away team had been witness to almost a week earlier began. The room spun for a moment and Duncan realized Q had done what was asked of him. All three of the immortals were back in the temple, Lochial eating dinner and the two younger immortals serving him. "Methos, go to your bed and wait there for me." Methos crawled over to his pallet at the base of the pillar he had been chained to earlier, and without being told, refastened the chain around his ankle and lay face down on his bed. He had removed his robes before laying down, the black marble still within him plainly visible. Lochial finished his dinner and began moving towards Methos. Before he could get there, Duncan was talking to Q, "Fast forward right now Q, I can't watch this. Just go to where he escapes from here." Duncan was sure Captain Janeway was looking at him in gratitude. He hadn't done it for her, he just couldn't watch any longer. The room spun again, but Methos was still in the same place the last time they saw him. Duncan had no idea how much time had passed, and he wouldn't ask Q. After a few moments of watching Methos sleep, Duncan was able to figure out it was still the same night. Methos was covered in blood, still chained to the pillar. His body had healed, and he was laying with his back to the away team, the same marble phallus still in him. It was deathly silent in the temple, but in the dim light Duncan could see Methos stirring. He couldn't see what he was doing, so he moved closer to get a better view. Tuvok and Chakotay followed him, but Kathryn and Q held back. Duncan was close enough to see what Methos was doing, and he thought he would scream. Methos had removed the phallus left in him by his master, sat up, wrapped his blanket around his leg, and began to beat his own ankle with the marble. The only sound was of bones being shattered, but Duncan knew no one more than twenty feet away could hear the sickening crunch as Methos hit himself again and again. His face was contorted in pain, but he continued on his mission. His entire foot was disfigured before he could get the shackle off of his ankle. He hunched over on his pallet cradling his destroyed ankle, waiting for the pain to go away. Duncan didn't understand what Methos was planning to do. When the familiar energy surrounded his leg, Methos looked as if he would faint from the shock of it. He obviously wasn't expecting his body to heal on its own. He sat on his pallet lost in thought, then made motions to test his ability to use his now-mended leg. His face changed into the countenance he would wear when he became Death. The away team couldn't have known Methos' original plan was to kill himself. He had rationalized that if he died while the master was sleeping, he wouldn't be revived. When he realized his body healed itself with no help from the man still sleeping, he went into a murderous rage. Methos got off his pallet and crept across the temple, watching Lochial the entire time. He made his way to where the ceremonial daggers were kept, grabbed one and crawled to the huge bed his God was sleeping in. He didn't hesitate as he plunged his stolen dagger into the other man's heart. He dragged the body out of the temple and the away team followed him outside. No one knew what he planned and they were surprised when he made his way to the pyre that was still burning the sacrificed remains from earlier that evening. Methos didn't hesitate, he took another dagger from the folds of the robes he had donned and began to hack through the limbs of the dead man laid out in front of him. First he sawed an arm off from the shoulder, then a leg. After he separated the rest of the limbs from the body, he threw them onto the funeral pyre. He then eviscerated the body, pulling out as many internal organs as he could, and added them to the blaze. He had a difficult time removing the head from the shoulders with the small knife he was using but continued to hack away at the neck until he succeeded. Duncan knew what the gathering lightning was, but Methos was blessedly ignorant of what was about to happen to him. The last thing he did before he was hit by the quickening was to kick the head into the funeral pyre and shout "Let's see you raise yourself from the dead Masterl!!!" The quickening took him totally unaware and it was a strong one. Methos' body was battered by the artificial storm, and he didn't move when it was finally, blessedly over. Duncan was sure Methos had a revelation in the memories of the dead man as he received the other's quickening, for a growing look of understanding was passing over his features. He pulled himself off the ground, stood up straight and began to walk down the steps of the temple. He didn't look back as he walked into the dark desert night. Captain Janeway was the first to speak after they watched Methos walk into the desert. She had an unexpected request. "Duncan, I know you are presenting this case, but I have a favor to ask of you if Q will allow it." "Kathy, I know what you're going to ask and it is fine with me. It's MacLeod's decision." "Thank you Q." She looked at her crew and realized they were feeling the same way she was. The sight of silent tears running down Chakotay's face was enough to encourage her to show what she felt was her own weakness. She began to speak in a tone her officers had never heard from her before. "Duncan, I can't watch any more of this. Would you please share some of your pleasant memories of him for the rest of this evening? I know it's an unusual request, but I think I will lose my mind if I am subject to any more of this tonight. Please, will you do that?" Kathryn didn't care if the other members of her crew thought of her as weak for asking this of Duncan. She was not exaggerating when she said she couldn't stand any more scenes of this nature tonight without losing her sanity. "Yes, Captain, I will. I can't be with you though because I was there. I'll tell Q where to take you for the next three hours. Q, will you bring me back to the valley we were in earlier so I can wait for you there?" The next three hours were filled with happiness and light. Methos was smiling, happy and invariably with Duncan. The first place they visited was in the home of a woman friend of the two men. There was also a young girl there and it was Christmastime. Duncan was playing Santa Claus and handing out gifts to everyone. Methos was helping the young girl balance on her new bike. It was an idyllic scene and exactly what the Captain needed to see. The little girl was named Mary and her mother was Anne. There was another man there, a man who walked with a limp and a cane. When the girl went to bed, the adults sat around the fire drinking cider and telling funny stories. This was the man Kathryn knew as Methos, not the man she had been forced to watch over the past week. He and Duncan were obviously not together as a couple yet, Methos was with a young man who resembled Tom, and Duncan was clearly with Anne. The friendship they shared was apparent to anyone who had eyes. He was just a normal man enjoying his friends' company. It was nice to see. Kathryn could have stayed there the entire night and not have been uncomfortable spying on the people in the room, but they only stayed for an hour. Q had given them drinks and food and she almost felt like part of the celebration. She could not reconcile the happiness of the man sitting across from her with either the vicious killer or the helpless victim. Even though seeing him like this rose her spirits, she couldn't fathom how he had ever survived his past to lead a seemingly normal life. The next place she found herself was in a hospital room, Methos crying while he cradled a dead woman in his arms. She felt more guilty seeing his grief than his physical pain. This private moment was never meant to be shared. Somehow she would have vengeance on Q for opening this man's private life to them. They had no right to this part of Methos' soul. What was Q doing? She would never think of him as a harmless amusement again. The last time she had crossed paths with the omniscient being, she began to think of him as a friend. Poor, poor Methos. She had to stop herself in the middle of her pity fest. How in the world could she ever face the man again? The next scene was in a nightclub with Duncan, a woman called Amanda, and the same man she had seen at the Christmas party. The man's name was Joe and it was his seventy-fifth birthday party. The woman Anne was Joe's wife now and the child from the long-ago party was a grown woman. She sat down in a chair and watched the party. Soon after they arrived, Methos got up and went onstage. He sat down at the piano and began to play a song. Kathryn didn't know what it was, but Methos' love for his friend clearly shone through the words he was singing. Not long after the song was finished, they again were hurtled through time. It was extremely disorienting when she found herself on the Moon of all places. New San Francisco was a place she was familiar with. She had been stationed on the moon for a month of training while in the academy. Duncan and a small boy were Methos' companions and they followed him around the city. The child, named Adam, called Methos Da and Duncan Papa. She had no idea the two of them had had a son. She didn't know what year she was in, but it was certainly sometime in the twenty-third century. She realized the little boy the two men obviously loved was long dead and buried. She fought down the unexpected grief that welled within her as she imagined his death. Methos was practicing medicine and was making house calls all over the colony. He had a wonderful manner with his patients, especially the children. They stayed on the lunar colony for over an hour, the longest visit yet. Since Duncan had planned it, she knew the memory was special to him. She needed to thank him when she saw him again. New San Francisco was their last stop for the night, and they were soon back in the valley with Duncan. Q had provided them with a very comfortable small house to spend the night in, but all four members of the away team chose to sleep under the stars. Looking up at the night sky, she realized she was somewhere in the northern hemisphere of Earth. Q had at least done one thing right. She fell asleep under the familiar stars and dreamt of Christmas and a smiling young boy. Duncan was the first one up and he had somehow convinced Q to supply the necessary ingredients to cook an old fashioned campfire breakfast. Kathryn woke up to the smell of, could it be? Yes!, fresh roasted, freshly brewed, coffee. Not just any coffee, but Aged Sumatran coffee. Her personal favorite and a brew she hadn't had in years. What was Q up to now? He couldn't possibly be feeling guilty for what he was putting them through could he? --- Duncan served everyone breakfast in silence and didn't begin speaking until they were all through eating and working on their third cup of coffee each. He opened with an apology "We're going back to the camp of The Four Horseman today. I am sorry, but we have to. I promise after today, I will only show you good memories, but it needs to be done, please forgive me. I promise you, on my honor, I will only show what I have to. I want you to see the man I know and I won't drag any more horror than necessary back to the present." Duncan knew he was repeating himself, but he wasn't feeling very eloquent. He wanted to get this over with and go back to his life with the man he loved. He suddenly had an uneasy feeling about what was happening on Voyager in the present day. Something was wrong. He put his fear to the back of his mind and summoned Q. "Q, take us to the day Methos met Kronos and the rest of the Horsemen." Once again the away team found themselves in the middle of a raid on a tiny village. But in this village, the people were fighting back. All of the men were armed with swords and axes. The women were armed with sharp daggers, and some of them were stringing rope between trees, pulling the rope taut as men on horses rode through the trees. When a man was unseated from his horse, the women descended on him, ripping him to shreds. Methos was leading the defense of the village. The invaders numbered an even dozen and there were over forty armed villagers. It was a good fight, but the advantage of being mounted went to the raiders. It wasn't the slaughter they had witnessed days earlier, but it wasn't pretty. Methos was fighting two invaders when all of a sudden, he turned around to look at the figure riding up behind him. It was Kronos. At the instant their eyes met for the first time, one of the men Methos had been battling ran him through the gut with a broadsword. Kronos rode up to him, grabbed the still form and threw it over his horse. The away team appeared in the raiders' camp at the same time the horsemen returned. Caspian and Silas were at the camp, not having gone on the day's ride. They came out to meet Kronos and Kronos dumped Methos at their feet. He still hadn't revived, but did soon after Kronos pulled a dagger out of his heart. Kronos sounded excited as he related the days events to the two waiting men, "Look what I have found brothers! This scrawny thing was leading a village of mortal peasants against us, and they almost won. He could be nice to keep around. After we break him, that is. What do you think Caspian?" "I think his signature is very strong, have you seen him before?" "No, no, he was hiding in a village full of weaklings, maybe he doesn't participate in the game. It doesn't matter he is ours now. He is pretty isn't he though?" Methos began reviving at that point and Silas stepped onto his chest to hold him in place. Kronos bent down to look him in the face. "Hello there little one, welcome to your new home." Methos spit in his face. "Don't ever call me that again you pig!" Kronos straightened himself up and laughter erupted from deep in his diaphragm, "The little one has spirit, this is going to be fun brothers!" "Just take my head and get it over with swine, I won't play your games." Methos threw his head back and steeled himself for the blow he thought was coming. "No, no, you are our new toy. That was quite an impressive show your villagers put on, did you teach them to fight like that?" Methos didn't respond, he lay there, still baring his neck, daring the other man to take his head. Caspian was still holding him down with his foot, holding a sword to his neck, but Kronos signaled him not to do it. He had plans for this one. "Silas, get the irons and put the pegs into the fire." Kronos moved to peer into Methos' face, liking what he saw. "Caspian, I'm feeling generous, I'll let you choose, mouth or ass?" Caspian was surprised at the unexpected generosity Kronos was showing and quickly chose "I think I will take his ass Kronos, he's awfully skinny, it should be nice and tight. I might have to widen him out first." Kronos pulled Methos to his feet, cut his clothes off and shoved him to his hands and knees. The two men savagely began raping him, knowing any damage they inflicted wouldn't be permanent. Caspian was having trouble gaining entry into the tight channel he was attempting to invade. He solved the problem by using the blade of his dagger to open Methos up further. Kronos obviously approved because he began to laugh. If Methos was screaming, no sound was coming out. His mouth was filled with Kronos' dick, and Kronos was holding his head, brutally forcing himself down his captor's throat, almost suffocating him. They were proving a point to their new prisoner. They could do with him what they would and he could not defend himself. The point of the exercise was not lost on Methos. He let his body go slack and let them do what they would. When they finished with him, Kronos stuck the dagger into his heart again. Methos slipped into oblivion, only to wake up when they were ready for him. Silas had heated an ankle iron until it was glowing red. Methos was still naked and bloody, but his wounds had healed. --- "Kronos, I think this one is older than he seems, did you see how fast he heals?" "What does that matter? Caspian, I do not want his quickening unless he proves not to be useful. I think I can have him broken within the year. And if it takes longer, it will be fun. We could use his help planning raids, you should have seen how well trained his peasants were! Silas are you ready?" Silas answered by bringing the glowing irons and a large mallet over to where Methos was laying on the ground. He didn't look to be in his body, his mind having left for a safer place for awhile. He was quickly pulled back to reality. Kronos sat on his chest and Caspian grabbed his leg. Silas held one of the pins for the irons against his calf with tongs, raised his hammer and drove the glowing iron through Methos' leg until there was an end of the metal sticking out of each side. He attached the ring of the iron to each side of the pin. When the iron cooled it would be merged together as one unit, piercing the bone and flesh of the leg, never quite healing. Methos had started screaming as soon as the searing metal touched his flesh, his screams growing louder and louder as the spike was hammered through his bones. He didn't stop screaming when they were done. The leg iron was attached to a metal pole that was next to Kronos' tent and he was left there, still screaming, while the three horsemen went to find their supper. He was still screaming an hour later when they came back. Silas took pity on him and drove a dagger through his heart and left it there while the men went to bed, leaving him staked out dead under the stars. Duncan was the only one to speak, "Take us forward ten years Q" The scene that met them as they arrived in the future past was almost identical to the one they had just left. They were obviously in a different area, but Methos was still wearing the iron. He was attached to a pole as the horsemen came riding into the camp from another raid. The first thing Kronos did when he returned was rape Methos. At dinner, Methos served the three men, and then was taken into Kronos' tent for the night. Screams they all recognized as coming from Methos were soon heard. No one moved to go near the tent and it was just as well. They really didn't need to see what was happening inside. They already knew. "Q, ten more years." They jumped ahead ten years three more times, every time almost exactly like the one before. The last time they jumped ten years ahead, the scene was slightly different. Methos was still wearing the iron, but he had clothes on. When Kronos rode to where Methos was waiting for him, Kronos had a present for him. He threw the form of a young woman off of his horse and at Methos' feet. He had been in the camp of the horseman for almost fifty years, but still looked the same. "Hello pet, look what I've brought home for you. She's all yours, have fun with her. Methos knew what Kronos wanted him to do and he didn't disappoint him. He raped the crying woman while the rest of the horseman looked on. When he was done, Kronos handed him a knife. It was over quickly, he didn't make her suffer. Kronos was pleased with his performance and allowed him to eat with them that night. He still didn't remove the iron from Methos' leg. He wasn't totally trusted yet. When it was time for bed, Kronos surprised the away team by killing Methos and leaving the dagger in his heart. Fifty years and he was still killed every night. Duncan had a question, "Q, I don't want to see anymore of this, but I have to know. Can you answer three questions so we can leave the Horsemen behind forever?" "What do you want to know?" Of course Q already knew, but he was humoring the Scotsman. "When do they stop killing him every night?" "Twenty-three more years, he'll have been here for 73 years before they trust him enough to let sleep at night instead of killing him. Next question." "When do they take the iron out of his leg?" "Ah, that won't be for another fifty-five years, he lived with that shackle for over a hundred years. You said you had one more question, ask away." "When does Kronos stop raping him?" "The day he walked out of camp to never come back. After the first four hundred years it wasn't really rape anymore, just consensual brutality. He got used to it and even began to enjoy it. Satisfied? Can we go now?" "Yes, but I want to make one more stop before we call it a day." --- When Methos regained consciousness, he found himself upside down, still strapped into the pilot's seat, and at the base of a large tree. His memory soon came back to him and his only thought was for Tom Paris. He got himself out of his restraints as fast as he could and began his search. He almost missed the broken body partly covered in debris, but the sunlight caught a lock of the pilot's blond hair, catching Methos' eye. "Tom, Tom, can you hear me? I'll get you out of there don't worry." Methos didn't know if the pilot was alive or dead. He consoled himself with the knowledge that if he were dead it wouldn't last long. He didn't want Tom to have his first death yet, so was hoping against hope his friend was still alive. He was. Methos managed to get the mangled shuttle parts off of him, but he was still unconscious. He found a medical tricorder in the wreckage and began cataloguing the injuries. Both of his legs had been broken when part of the fuselage had landed on him. The rest of the damage to the young man was minor. No concussion, no internal injuries and only a few of his external injuries were bleeding. He would be bruised and sore, but he would live. The blood loss was minor. Methos began searching the wreckage to salvage anything he could. He found the med kit, but it didn't contain the long bone regenerator he would need to mend Tom's legs. Emergency med kits were just that, and broken bones could usually wait until the patient was back on the ship. He settled for painkillers and injected the younger man with the medicine. He picked up and carried the much larger man away from the crash site and to higher ground. Hopefully he would stay out of it for awhile longer. Methos collected food, clothing, weapons, and as many things he could carry to their new home. He would build a shelter the next day. After he finished his chores he sat down next to his friend and took his head into his lap to wait for him to regain consciousness. Methos had fallen asleep and woke up to Tom trying to sit up. "Tom, lay down, both of your legs are fractured. I didn't find any other injuries so you're going to be OK, it will just take some time." "You OK?" "Tom, I'm fine. remember? I'm indestructible. Are you thirsty?" "Did you die in the crash?" "It doesn't matter, but yes. I slammed into a tree at a pretty high speed. Don't worry about it, it was over too quick to hurt to much. See I was right, you were safer in the back. How's the pain? Do you want another sedative?" Tom, looked at himself for the first time and noticed he wasn't wearing pants and his legs were crudely splinted, "Did you set my legs?" "They didn't need to be set, they're fractured, not broken. You still can't move them though. I had to splint from hip to ankle or they'll never heal. How bad's the pain?" "I'm not going to lie to you, it hurts like hell, but I'll be all right. How long are they going to take to heal without a regenerator?" "You are a child of the 24th century aren't you? Fractures take anywhere from 10 to 14 weeks to heal depending on the patients age and physical condition." "You're joking Methos! I'm can't be flat on my back for that long." "Tom, are you forgetting why we're here? Q will be along any time now." "Not if they find you innocent. Voyager will signal us, and we'll never know. I don't think they'll find us Methos. What do we do now?" "Well, I make camp, build us shelter, find water, make sure we stay alive, and you lay back and watch me. Sound good?" "Methos, I'm serious." "So am I Tom, we can't worry about what we can't change, if by some miracle Q decides not to kill me, the Captain will make him find us. If not for me than for you. Either way we won't be here too long." He saw the injured man try to move and wince in pain for his effort. Methos knew what broken bones felt like, luckily he didn't have to feel them for too long. "How are the legs?" "Just keep the painkillers coming, do we have enough for a few days?" "Enough to get you through the worst of it, don't worry." "Methos, please don't go anywhere without letting me know first. I feel pretty helpless here." "Oh Tom, I wouldn't do that to you. Try to get some sleep, it's getting dark, I'm going to scout the area at first light." Methos lay down next to his friend and began to wonder if it would have been better if Tom had suffered his first death in the crash. It would be hard enough keeping them both alive if he were whole. He was totally helpless and would rely on Methos for everything. He briefly considered killing him, but put the thought out of his mind. They would get through this. Q would be able to find them no matter the outcome of his trial. They just had to survive until then. He slept with a phaser and his sword next to him. Who knows what lived on this planet. He just hoped there weren't any hungry animals lurking out there. --- "Where are we Q?" Duncan had been left behind again, so Chakotay assumed they were going to see some more happy memories. It was a good way to end the night. Chakotay didn't recognize this place. Duncan didn't give them any warning about where they were headed for their last stop of the day, he could only hope it wouldn't involve any more torture for Methos. How the hell was that man still alive? He didn't think he would have survived what Methos had and still be sane. All they were seeing was bits and pieces of his life and it was too much. He couldn't believe he had thought Methos was weak. He had no idea what the man had survived over the millennia. He just wished he were still ignorant, he could have lived without the experiences of the past week. Chakotay looked around him again and the place looked slightly familiar to him, but he still couldn't place it. The curious thing was, it was raining, but he wasn't getting wet. He looked at Q, but the omniscient one just shrugged his shoulders. "I don't feel like getting wet. If we have to stand around in the rain, I don't plan on being in phase with it." As Q had been speaking, two figures came into view on the top of a hill. The place was beautiful. Green, green slopes were dotted with Eucalyptus and Pine trees, rolling hills visible one after the other. Through the light drizzle and fog, Chakotay could see an ocean in the distance. It was gorgeous, the misting rain bringing out light and shadows, enhancing the scene. The two men on the hill began to move down the slope, but about halfway down the larger one lost his footing, fell on his ass, and slid to the bottom. He sat up and his laughter could be heard from where the away team stood watching. Chakotay figured out that the smaller of the two men was Methos, and the larger was Duncan. Methos surprised everyone including the man laughing on the ground by diving into the wet grass and mud of the hillside face first. He slid the 100 yards or so on his belly, continuing on past his companion and coming to a rest at the base of the rise of the next hill. He lay there laughing for a minute, jumped up, ran up the hill, and did it again. He was covered in mud, soaking wet, and having a great time. Methos tired out after five or six turns on his impromptu slip and slide and Duncan took his turn. When he was through, both men collapsed at the bottom of the slope and fell into fits of giggling. It was a comical sight, one man hundreds of years old, and another, thousands, where playing like a couple of puppies. None of the away team was surprised when the men stripped off their sodden clothing and began to make love in the rain. Thankfully Q fast forwarded them before things got to out of hand. They were taking the voyeur thing a little too far already. The men had put their filthy clothing back on and climbed over the next rise, the away team following behind. Kathryn wondered why they were still there, but followed anyway. Duncan and Methos sat at the top of the hill, arm in arm, staring off into the distance. The rain had stopped and the late afternoon sun was peaking out of the clouds. Chakotay had followed them up the hill and realized why the place felt familiar. He sat down next to the men and enjoyed the familiar panoramic view. They were in San Francisco, the old one, not the one on the Moon. He was sitting on a hill that a few hundred years in the future would be home to his dormitory at Starfleet Academy. In this time and place, it was a national park called the Presidio. The Golden Gate Bridge was in the foreground, and the hills of the headlands of Marin County could be seen through the fog. On his left, the Pacific ocean stretched uninterrupted to Japan. He felt like he was home. He could have stayed all night, but Q took them away after only ten minutes. When they returned to their temporary home, Duncan had once again cooked for them. He had a mug of coffee waiting for the Captain. "From the smile on your face Captain, I can tell you enjoyed watching me make a fool of myself, was it entertaining?" "Duncan it was wonderful, I might be able to sleep tonight after all. Thank you for sharing that." "Aye, it's fun watching two grown men act like schoolboys, isn't it. Especially when one of them is five thousand years old. I was dumping mud out of my boots for days afterward. I have hundreds of memories of us acting like fools, do you want to see some more tomorrow?" "I'd like that Duncan." The Captain lost her smile as she stared at Duncan and he started to fidget under her gaze. "What is it Captain?" "I can't put the other memories out of my head, Duncan. How does he go on?" Duncan sighed, got up to stir the stew he was making for dinner, poured himself a glass of Scotch and finally sat back down. "Truthfully? I really don't know. I don't think I could have. It's not fair for to do this to him Captain. He earned the right centuries ago to let these things be buried. Do you have any idea what Q is up to? He almost seemed helpful to me today. He answered my questions even though his answers hurt his case. Captain, what exactly is the Continuum?" "We don't know what they are. And Q won't let us know what he's really doing until he's good and ready. Maybe he's bored and this is how he entertains himself. I just don't see him being so interested in one man's life." Chakotay had been sitting across the fire listening to the conversation not saying much. He had a very disturbing thought and had to share it. "Captain, maybe this isn't about one man. What if he is testing us? What if he is putting the whole human race on trial again?" "An interesting theory Commander." Everyone turned to the Vulcan sitting in the shadows away from the fire. He had not spoken a word in nine days, and the others had almost forgotten he was with them. "Methos has played an important role in early human history, and has been present through the rest. He would be a logical choice as a representation of Man's societal evolution." "Tuvok, I was wondering about that, how could one man play such an important role in history?" "Commander, the answer is simple logic. When Methos was young, human history was also young. Earth was a much smaller place then. Everything noteworthy was happening in one area of the world, he just happened to be there. His long lifespan allowed him to be at pivotal points in human development. If you had not noticed, he has not been a factor in major historical events since around the beginning of the common era. As the world got larger, each individual's role in history got smaller. It is logical." Duncan couldn't listen to this Vulcan's nonsense any longer, "No, you are wrong Tuvok, there was just an increased number of events. None of them more significant than the other. Who are we to assume that one event had more impact than another. You do not have the perspective of time you think you do Tuvok. And anyway, he choose to drop into the background. He buried himself in books for two millennia. We can't keep thinking of Methos as a historical character. He's one man. A living breathing, laughing, loving, hurting, surviving man. Don't reduce him to the big picture." Q appeared in a flash of light, "You are all breaking the rules. You are not supposed to be speaking to each other during the trial. I'm ending this now, but since I'm feeling generous MacLeod, you can have the morning to finish making your case, then after lunch, we make closing statements. I'm separating all of you for the rest of the night. Think long and hard about the last piece of Methos' life you're going to show, MacLeod." --- Neither Tom nor Methos slept very well their first night on the planet. Tom woke up every time he moved, yet refused to take any more painkillers. He had to make them last, so only took enough to take the edge off the pain. Methos woke up each time Tom cried out. Finally, Methos sat against a tree trunk and took Tom's head into his lap. They slept that way for the rest of the night. Morning found both men stiff and sore, but Tom was the worse off. His legs were one giant bruise from hips to just below his knees. Thankfully, they had swelling reducers on hand, so at least his legs were no longer swollen to twice their normal size. Methos got up to scout around, leaving Tom laying in camp. They only had the two phasers, so needed to conserve them. A nearby stream provided plenty of water. Methos spent the entire first day building a lean-to. He was forced to admit to himself they just might be stuck there for awhile. It had been ten days since the away team was kidnapped from Voyager. Surely his trial couldn't be taking that long? He was growing more and more frustrated by the hour and had to fight himself not to take his frustrations out on the injured pilot. It wasn't his fault, none of this was his fault. Methos had to admit the whole thing was his own fault, not Tom's. He would just have to do everything he could to keep his companion comfortable. --- After the third day on the planet, he was seriously considering killing Tom. The man was still in extreme pain and he had just been given the last of the medication. Tom couldn't even go to the bathroom by himself. Methos was just barely holding himself together. As the days passed he had to admit they might not be rescued. Maybe Q decided to leave them here instead of executing him. Would Q do that to Tom though? He didn't know. He decided to talk to Tom. If he asked him, maybe he would agree to Methos' plan. He walked over to their lean-to where Tom was laying on his mattress made of dried out river weeds. Methos was very good at surviving in the wilderness. He had to be, the majority of his life had been lived without modern conveniences. Maybe that's why he liked to pamper himself so much. Electricity was still a fairly new invention to Methos. He was feeling his age and feeling sorry for himself when he started talking to the pilot. "Tom, I need to tell you something. I have a plan to heal your legs, but it's going to take allot of trust on your part." "What Methos, are you going to perform an ancient healing spell on me or something?" Tom had no idea what Methos was up to. He was bored and scared. He felt like an infant. Methos had to carry him anywhere he needed to go and he was no help at all in their survival. If he was completely honest with himself, he would have to admit he was holding Methos back. At least his friend didn't seem resentful yet, he wondered how long that was going to last. The truth be told, Tom was feeling pretty sorry for himself and very edgy. He knew his joke was lame, but it was the best he could do in his current mood. "No Tom, I want to kill you." "Methos you are kidding right? Come on, I know they used to shoot horses with broken legs, but I'm not a horse. If you're getting sick of taking care of me, go do what you want, I'll be fine on my own." Methos didn't look like he was kidding and he was scaring Tom. What brought this on? Methos wouldn't really kill him would he? "Tom, I'm not getting sick of you, I'm worried about you. I'm beginning to think Q is planning on leaving us marooned on this planet. It's going to be a long time before you can even stand up, and I can't go very far to find food and leave you here totally helpless." The phaser that was normally by Tom's side had been left outside, he didn't think he'd need it while he napped so he had left it out with the other weapons. He vowed it wouldn't happen again if he could talk Methos out of his planned mercy killing. "Tom, I can't stand to see you suffer like this for much longer. You're body is going to waste away as time goes on. You're going to be flat on your back for three months. Three Months Tom!! It's been three days and you're already going crazy. Tom, you're one of us. You're like me and Mac, only you haven't had your first death yet. If I kill you, you'll revive in perfect health." "I don't believe you. I think you're the one who's going crazy, not me." "Tom, do you really think I'd lie to you about this? Do you really trust me that little? You think I would kill you just so I didn't have to take care of you? That really hurts Tom. It really hurts." Methos was not exaggerating. He had expected resistance to his plan, but for a different reason. He didn't expect his friend to accuse him of being so selfish. Methos had to get away for a little while. He left camp and walked down to the stream. He could deal with Tom's suspicion, it was normal he realized. The man was injured, scared, and depressed. He knew he would be too if he were in his position. He wouldn't mention the plan again. He would let Tom think about it for awhile. He was sure if the other man let his rational mind do his thinking, he would come around in time. Maybe they would be rescued soon. He felt a little better as he made his way back to their campsite. His thoughts were interrupted by shouting coming from the camp. Shit! Tom was unarmed. He hoped he could get back in time. He hadn't seen signs of any large predators on this planet, and he sure hadn't seen signs of civilization. What was going on? He began to run full out towards the camp, it was voices he heard, sentient life, hopefully they were friendly. But it didn't sound like it. The first thing he saw when he entered the camp was Tom face down on the ground with a spear against his back. The creature holding the spear was humanoid, and big. It stood over two and a half meters tall, was wearing armor, and looked like a Hirogen. There were four of them in the camp tearing it apart. He had to get to his phaser. One of the creatures had already picked up Methos' sword, but he knew there was a phaser on the side of the camp he was closest to. He could take them all out if he could just get to that phaser. He was sure he was going to make it when he was hit in the stomach with an arrow. He went down hard and was instantly surrounded by three of the creatures. He was still conscious though, and pulled the arrow out of his gut. These ugly savages would get quite a surprise when they turned their backs on him expecting him to be dead. He pretended to be hurt and let his body heal itself. It didn't take long. But the men had not turned their backs to him. They were tapping him with the tip of their boots, not very hard, almost seeming to be trying to figure out what he was. The universal translator on his combadge kicked in and he could understand what they were saying. "What are they?" The creature had turned his attention back to Tom and had pulled him to his feet him by an arm to get a better look at him, but Tom couldn't support himself on his broken legs and went down in a heap, snapping the splints Methos had put on him. He shrieked in pain and the creature let him drop the rest of the way to the ground. "Whatever they are, they are weak. I've never seen creatures like this before. Do you think they were in the metal that came out of the sky?" "Do you think it speaks?" The man who looked to be in charge walked over to Tom and kicked him, trying to get him to respond. All of the creatures had walked over to Tom, assuming Methos was dead. They were surrounding the injured man, peering down at the oddity they had found when Methos started crawling towards his phaser, which luckily the natives hadn't known was a weapon. He shot two of them in the back before he was hit with another arrow. This one pierced his heart, killing him in seconds. The next thing Methos was aware of was being tied to a pole with his hands tied behind him. His chest hurt like hell. He hadn't been shot with an arrow in five hundred years. It still was a shitty way to die. They had been taken to the creatures' village while he was dead. They must have just pulled the arrow out of him. He knew he didn't stay dead for very long unless what caused his death remained in his body, not allowing him to heal properly. He didn't open his eyes, but started feeling around the air for Tom's signature. He didn't feel it. He hoped it meant they had killed him and left him at camp. Maybe Tom would find a way to rescue him when he revived. He would know the truth of Methos' earlier words then. He felt someone breathing in his face and held his breath, but it was too late. They knew he was alive. Damn, now what? He did the only thing he could, he opened his eyes. The man that had been only inches from his face jumped back in shock. Soon Methos was surrounded by all of the warriors in the camp. The one in charge was wearing Methos' combadge around his neck. The leader of the tribe walked up to Methos and pulled his shirt off of him. He had Methos' dagger in his hand and pointed it at his abdomen. This was a different man than the one who had led the hunting party earlier, and he wanted to see Methos heal for himself. Methos didn't think before he spoke, "What? Do I have a fucking sign on me that says 'hurt me'?" He should have know sarcasm wouldn't be too popular in this camp. His words bought him some time when the people realized this strange creature spoke their language, but not much. The man holding the knife slit his belly open without warning. It didn't hurt too much, a nice clean slice, Methos was happy he kept the knife's blade sharp. He felt the healing energy and watched the reaction of the men around him. They looked curious, not awe-struck, as Methos had expected them to be. Oh well, playing God wouldn't work with them. "Does the other one heal himself as well?" The leader was talking to the war party leader but still looking at Methos. "No, it was injured when we found it and it is still injured. We left it in the pit. This one is much more interesting. They seem so soft, yet do not die. What should we do with them?" "Throw this one in the pit with the other until morning. We will figure out how his armor works, and we will rule the sector if we can adapt it to our use." Methos didn't like the sound of this one bit. He had been skinned alive once and was not about to let it happen again. He was untied and led across the camp, his legs and arms retied, and dumped into a hole in the ground. He landed on top of the still form of Tom Paris. --- "Q, how much time do I have exactly?" "MacLeod, I told you you would have the entire morning. That's what you'll have." "Okay, Q, take us to the morning of May 15 in the year 2097, Seacouver, my loft. After the fist scene, I want to be with you. I wasn't there for the rest. The scene that met the officers of Voyager was one of comforting domesticity. They found themselves in the kitchen of a spacious loft, Methos sitting at the counter, and Duncan cooking breakfast. Methos had his nose buried in a book and was sipping coffee. Both men were totally relaxed, lounging in their underwear in their home. Mac served Methos breakfast, pried the book out of his hands, and stole a kiss. "What are your plans for the day, Methos?" "I'm teaching a morning seminar on ancient Etruscan and then I'm free for the day. Do you want to meet for lunch?" "Sounds good, I only have one class and a faculty meeting. Au Natural at 12:30 sound good to you?" "Duncan, I thought we were meeting for lunch, but you nude, in my arms, sounds like a better plan." Methos pulled Duncan into his lap and began to kiss him, but Duncan had a different agenda. "Methos, I'm going to be late. I'll see you at lunch. Call if you're going to be late." "Come on Duncan, we have time, you don't have class for an hour." "No, I have a faculty meeting in half an hour. Let me go, I can't be late." Duncan put his dishes in the sink and headed toward the bathroom, Methos right behind him. "I'll shower with you." "Methos, I said no. You can wait a few more hours to get your hands on me can't you? Good, can you stop at the bank before you meet me at the restaurant? I don't have time and I really need to pick up some paperwork. I'll call them and they'll have it waiting for you." "Yeah sure Mac, I'll do it even though you don't love me anymore." Methos was pouting, but his eyes were twinkling. "Yeah, I am getting a little bored with you, we may have to try something different after lunch, don't be late or I might change my mind." "Duncan, that's the second time you've told me not to be late, I do know how to tell time." Methos had followed Duncan into the bathroom and was still pestering him. "You may know how to tell it, but you lose track of it pretty easily. Come on get out, I'm running late. Do the dishes while I shower." He complied, complaining loudly the entire time he was washing dishes. When Duncan came out of the bathroom, he was dressed and ready to go. Methos' was up to his elbows in soap suds, but Duncan went over to him to say good-bye. "See you at lunch, don't forget the bank." He kissed the still grumbling Methos on the top of his head and walked out the door. --- The Duncan MacLeod of the future materialized inside the bank the same time the rest of the away team did, and they were a little confused for a moment. He walked over to them and they realized it was the Duncan from the 24th century and not the one they had just seen. Methos walked into the bank a minute later. He headed towards the manager's office and was halfway there when four machine gun toting men stormed into the bank, slamming the door behind them. They sprayed the air with gunfire and all of the occupants dove to the floor. Methos and the manager's secretary were the closest hostages to them, and the leader of the robbers pointed his gun at the secretary. "Open the vault now or I shoot this one. " The manager hesitated and the gunman leveled his weapon at the frightened mortal woman. The rest of the scene played itself out in slow motion to Duncan's eyes. The manager didn't move fast enough and the robber pulled the trigger, Methos managing to cover the screaming woman with his body just as the gun went off. He was shot in the head, blood and brains spattering the woman he was covering. Methos died instantly. The manager opened the vault, the robbers filled their bags, and ran out of the bank as sirens were heard converging on the building. Methos still hadn't revived as a swat team swarmed into the building. The leader of the team went over to the body, but the manager told him Methos was a customer and not one of the robbers. The wound on his head closed as the sergeant was examining him and he revived to a gun pointed at his head, again. "What the fuck are you Mister?!" Was his welcome back to the land of the living. "Oh Shit." was his only response. The away team watched as Methos was handcuffed and surrounded by policeman and led out of the building. "Duncan I'm sorry, " Captain Janeway had wrapped her arms around the crying Highlander trying to comfort him. "Captain, 'ye no understand, I was waitin for him gettin' angrier by the minute. I thought he forgot about our meetin'. I didn't find out what happened to him fer three years. I knew he was in the bank, and I knew he had been shot, but I couldn't find where they took him. It took me twenty years to find out who had him, then another twenty-two to get him out of there. That's where we're going next. You have to see what they did to him." "Duncan, do we have to? I have a pretty good idea already." "Aye Captain, we have to, it's important." --- "Mr. Kelly, Adam, I know you can hear me. look at me." Methos was strapped to a bed in a generic looking hospital room. He was nude, had no covers over him, and tubes were running into various parts of his body. A nurse was shining a light into his eyes, one after the other trying to get a response from him. He had a look on his face the Voyagers had seen before. Methos' mind was not in his body. A doctor entered the room and began poking at the still form on the bed. "How is he today nurse?" He asked after picking up the chart from the end of the bed. "His vital signs are back to normal doctor. It only took fourteen hours for the hydrochloric acid to be replaced with his own blood. I don't understand. He didn't have an ounce of blood in him. He was completely drained. The acid was added through his IV and there is no longer a trace of any of it." "Hmmmm, exactly as I suspected. Do you have the hourly samples?" "Yes, here they are." "Has he spoken today." "Doctor, you've asked me the same question every day for the past ten years, and the answer is still no. He hasn't said a word since the third day he's been here." "Very well, get him ready for the next procedure." "I thought you weren't going to run any more tests for another week. In the past week, we've drained his blood four times, and taken out half his organs, he needs time to recuperate." "You know very well, we are testing his endurance this month. If you are getting emotionally involved with the subject, you will be re-assigned." "No, doctor, I'm not getting emotionally involved. What time is the procedure scheduled?" "Fourteen hundred hours. Try to get him to eat something before then, force feed him if you have to. He isn't absorbing enough nutrients from his feeding tube. He needs to eat something solid." "Yes doctor." The away team stayed in the room as three orderlies dressed in the olive green of the United States army held Methos down and forced food into him. They followed as he was wheeled through the corridors to an operating theater and lined themselves against the walls as the procedure began. He was briefly untied and settled onto the operating table, guns trained on him until he was retied. A team of six doctors came into the room, none wearing masks or gloves. It was an international team, and each doctor was dressed in the uniform of his home country. The first of the assembled doctors to speak was an Indian woman and she looked a little shaken as the procedure was about to begin. "How much anesthesia has he been given?" "None doctor, he doesn't need it, he has an incredible tolerance for pain." "Doctor Langtry, you can not be serious, you can't perform this procedure without anesthetizing the subject." "Dr. Nehra, I understand this is your first time assisting in the research, but do not interfere. He is fine, he has never made a sound during a procedure. Now if you're through we can begin. Is the video camera running? Good, scalpel." Each doctor was working on a different part of Methos' body, methodically removing his skin with a scalpel. When they were finished, they stood back and waited. Within twenty minutes his musculature was covered with new skin. The light show his body displayed while regenerating was an impressive sight. The medical team stood watching as he healed. No one noticed his bonds had been destroyed by the current that had mended his body. Before anyone could react to the suddenness of the movement from the corpse, he was off the operating table, scalpel in hand, on the offensive. He managed to slit the throats of the three closest doctors before he was shot by machine gun fire. His dead body was re-strapped to the gurney he had been on and wheeled out of the room by the military police before order was restored to the operating theater. As Methos' body was wheeled out of the room, Captain Janeway saw the smile on his face frozen in death. "Q, we're going back to Methos' village. The one we visited first. I want to go back to exactly the same scene we started with." They found themselves back in the village Methos had lived in as a child. The children were still playing in the water, the mother who had come to call them to dinner indulging them with more play time. Duncan watched Methos sneak up on and dunk a girl twice his size. She returned the favor and then they had a splashing fight. It was fun to watch and Duncan began to smile reliving memories of children he had raised over the years. He knew what he had to do. "Captain, Chakotay, Tuvok, I don't know what your decision will be, but if you decide he is to be punished, I request that he be killed here and in this time. If you are going to sentence him to die, carry it out before he has to live through his nightmares." Q looked to be in shock, Q had never in all his existence experienced the feeling before, "MacLeod, do you have any idea what you have just done?" "What are you talking about Q? If what he has done in his life is so heinous that he must die for 3 millennia old sins, you surely have the power to kill him before he commits any of them." "MacLeod, you have, with that one request, just created over two million AU's. I can't believe I didn't see that one coming." "And what is an AU?" "Alternate Universes you dolt!!! I've always wondered where some of them came from. I should have known I had something to do with them. Whenever I don't know where something came from, it was always something I had a hand in. The Continuum is not going to like this, and I'm blaming you MacLeod. We're going back to the courtroom for closing arguments, but I need to take a break first. You'll all be sent different places so we don't have a repeat of last night. Just think of somewhere you want to be, not Voyager, and that's where you'll be. I have to go deal with the Continuum, I'll come for you when I'm done." --- When Methos fell onto the body of Tom Paris, Tom didn't move. Methos could sense Tom's pre-immortal signature, so he knew the man wasn't dead. He wished Tom was. It would make things a hell of allot easier. He pulled himself into a sitting position as best he could with his hands and feet bound, and began to examine the unconscious man. Tom's left leg was bent at an unnatural angle, the fractured bone breaking from the additional strain put on it in the past day. Methos wasn't going to be able to set it if he couldn't use his hands. He ran his eyes over the rest of the prone form and could find no other injuries. He really wished he could lay his hands on him to be sure. He nudged the still man with his knee, but got no reaction, so he decided to try to grab some rest while he could. He snuggled up to the warm body, the only heat source in their damp underground cell. Methos was freezing, his captors hadn't returned his shirt to him, so he was barechested and barefooted. He fell asleep planning their escape. He would have to kill Tom, it was the only way. Tom couldn't travel the way he was and Methos surely couldn't carry him. He would kill him now if he thought he could. How though? He had no weapons and he couldn't use his hands. Methos fell asleep dreaming about how he was going to kill his friend. --- Q had no choice but to answer the summons calling him to the Continuum. He was not pleased to have to face the tribunal his actions were now subject to. Ever since the civil war had almost torn apart the Continuum, and the rest of the Universe with it, the Q had to face an oversight committee of their peers. Q had always done exactly what he wanted, and it was difficult for him to be subject to review. He had to remind himself he was the one who wanted change in the Continuum. He didn't have to like it. "Q, Q, Q, I don't understand why you even want a demonstration, especially this demonstration. I have proven their worthiness to you over and over again. This exercise is pointless. They are starting to suspect I have ulterior motives." The three members of Q's oversight board were not the Qs he would have chosen to make his case with if he were given the choice. The opposition leader in the recent civil war was bad enough, as was the only member of the Continuum who hadn't had an original thought in 100,000 years, but the real problem was his partner and mate. She had her own personal reasons for not wanting him to help his humans. She was jealous, the only Q he had ever know to have a jealous streak, and she was sitting on the review board deciding the fate of the very species she was jealous of. The crew of Voyager would have recognized the head of the tribunal as the opposing general in the Q war they had unwillingly participated in two years earlier. He was the was the first to raise objections to Q's operation 'save mankind'. "Q, if they figure out what you are doing, this trial will end immediately. Every corporeal in the universe will be pestering us with their petty troubles if word of what you want to do gets out. You've caused enough problems for the Continuum already Q, your obsession with this species is getting out of hand." "I picked these humans for your evaluation specifically because they are not in contact with the rest of their species. By the time they return to the Alpha Quadrant, the whole matter will have been forgotten. They will never connect the two events." "You seem so sure Q, or are you forgetting the fact you didn't see the small matter of 2,493,104 Alternate Universes being created? How can you be so sure they won't cause a similar incident. You have already brought them to the Continuum, how much more damage can you do while you play with them?" "I am not playing with them! I am saving them!" Q's partner was fed up with her spouse's preoccupation with the humans. "Q, what does one species matter in the course of the Universe? They wouldn't appreciate your help even if they were aware of what you are doing. They are not as evolved as they think they are. We shouldn't be involved." "Q, you're just jealous of Kathy, not to mention Jean-Luc. Put your personal differences aside and keep an open mind for once. As I was saying, if they meet your standards, you will allow me to interfere, correct? "Yes Q, but they will not meet our standards." This was from Q-tip, as Q had taken to calling the only Q who couldn't see past his own nose. If he could just get the two others to agree, this Q would follow along with the crowd as always. "Don't be so sure Q, I think they will." --- Q decided to leave the away team where they were for the night. He genuinely liked the crew of Voyager, the Captain in particular, and wanted to do something nice for them even if they would never know. He went to visit with the Captain of the Enterprise while he still could. If the tribunal wouldn't agree to let him interfere in the Dominion/Federation war, his friend Jean-Luc, and half the humans in the Alpha Quadrant would be dead within the year. The rest would be subjugated by the Dominion and be no more than slaves to the Shapeshifters. His favorite species would be no more. It would never happen if he got his way. --- Chakotay had spent the afternoon and night on Dorvan IV. Q still hadn't summoned them. Chakotay didn't understand, Q could have had his conference with the Continuum without even leaving them. All he had to do was come back moments after he left. Q had no need to act in real time, what was he up to? Chakotay's unconscious mind had thought of home when Q left with instructions to think about where they wanted to spend their free time and that's exactly where he found himself. He was in the house he grew up in surrounded by his parents and older sisters. He remembered Q's saying they couldn't occupy the same time and space, so he supposed he hadn't been born yet. They were all dead now, killed by the Cardassians while Chakotay was away serving in Starfleet. In this time and place, his family was still whole. He loved seeing his parents as young adults just starting their family and his sisters as babies, even if they couldn't see him. For awhile he was content watching them. Then he remembered how they had died. He spent the rest of the night as close to his lost loved ones as he could possibly get, going so far as watching his parents make love. He missed them so much, more lives cut tragically short by yet another war. He put the morbid thoughts aside and made himself sleep. He fell asleep reliving happy times with his family. --- Kathryn spent the night on Earth. She found herself in her grandmother's house attending a long ago Christmas party. She mused that she must still have Christmas on the brain and settled back to enjoy the party. Her father was there, as was her grandfather. They were both Starfleet officers, one just beginning his career, the other ending his. She hadn't seen her family in years and was grateful for the chance to be with them in spirit if not in body. She wondered if they were still alive, hoping they would be waiting when Voyager finally made its way home. She went to sleep after the traditional lighting of the tree and didn't think about what waited for her when Q finally summoned them. --- Tuvok was meditating in the temple he never thought he would see again. He was on Vulcan in the great temple of T'Khut, a monument he had last seen after a ritual journey across the desert. He recited his prayers and remained in meditation the entire time he was there. The temple of T'Khut had special meaning to him and he had never expected to be able to meditate in the familiar surroundings again. No matter how much the rest of the crew believed they would eventually return to the Alpha Quadrant, Tuvok was a pragmatist so he simply enjoyed the gift of time spent in this most holy of places. --- Duncan MacLeod, of course, spent the afternoon and night in the Highlands Of Scotland. He slept outside, enjoying the brisk air of his homeland. He was in the time of his birth, or just before. So much for never being able to go home again. He loved it and found himself feeling grateful to Q. He reminded himself that Q didn't send him here, his own mind did, and settled in to sleep for the night in a bed of heather. The smell brought back pleasant memories and he dreamed of when he was young. The world had seemed so much simpler then. --- Morning found the away team assembled in the old fashioned courtroom in which they had begun their journey. Had it really only been ten days? Each person was in the position they had occupied the first time they were in the room. Duncan was allowed to present his closing arguments first. Q would then present his, then Duncan would get one last chance to speak. It wasn't exactly normal procedure, but it seemed fair to Kathryn, so she agreed. "The first thing I would like to clarify is the scene in Seacouver when I asked Methos if what Cassandra had told me about his past was true. When you saw that scene, you only saw a part of what really happened. Q has been picking and choosing moments without telling the whole story. I have proven that to you already with our second visit to the temple. Methos only said those things to try and protect me. Kronos had reappeared in his life and Methos wanted to keep me out of danger. He didn't know that I already knew Kronos, and had reasons of my own to become involved. He thought by pushing me away, he could keep me out of it. So he said the most hurtful things he could think of. It almost worked, if I hadn't seen a part of Methos during the double quickening he would have preferred to stay hidden, I would have let Cassandra kill him. Once again, parts of Methos' life that should remain his alone are laid out for all to see. Let's get past the unfairness of it all for a minute, the fact remains, he made the right choice when the time came." Methos had other motives as well, but Duncan didn't think he needed to bring those up. Methos had manipulated him, not fully trusting him to help unless he outraged Duncan's sense of justice. He had manipulated Duncan into killing Kronos for him, but Mac didn't think the tribunal needed to know that. "Methos saved Cassandra's life even though he knew she had vowed to kill him. I don't think he cared if he lived or died at that time. He had been a normal man, living as best he could for two thousand years since he left the Horseman. Everything he had worked so hard to put behind him was thrown right back into his face two millennia after it ended. I don't think any of you has the perspective to understand exactly how long two thousand years is. Three hundred years ago, space travel was just beginning, four hundred years ago, man couldn't even fly in his own atmosphere, five hundred years ago, electricity was just invented. One thousand years ago, the Renaissance hadn't happened yet, most of your ancestors were still living in mud shacks, hunting and gathering their food. One thousand five hundred years ago, the Crusades were in full swing. Two thousand years ago, Methos walked away from the Four Horseman for good. When they reappeared in his life after two millennia, the rest of them were ready to be re-united, this time using modern weaponry and a bioengineered plague to kill off half the mortal population. Methos stopped them." Methos would not have stood up to the Horseman if Mac were not there to stand by him. He wouldn't have joined them, but he would have run away. With Mac by his side he was able to confront them. That's all that mattered in the end. Duncan just hoped he had convinced the tribunal. He really wished Q had allowed him to continue, showing them the final battle would have been much more effective than his inadequate words. He didn't realize the effect his words were having on his audience. "I have no explanation for his behavior in Rome, except the old adage 'When in Rome.....Do as the Romans Do', we didn't live there, we only saw bits and pieces. I don't know if any of you noticed, but Methos slaves were unusually well fed and unmarked for that time and place. Slavery was the normal state of affairs for much of human history. It doesn't make it right, but we can't judge him based on our ideas of society. He was just one of many of a bad lot. No better or worse than most of his contemporaries. When we saw him in Rome, he had been away from the Horseman for less than a century. I thought his behavior was a remarkable improvement. He has lived through six thousand years, I don't think ten days out of six thousand years even begins to represent his existence. I have the time if you want a more thorough examination of his life. I know Q has the time, but I don't think you do. I don't think I need to reiterate what the man has lived through in his life, so I won't. I just ask you to consider if you could have survived what he did and still be sane. Q interrupted, looking bored and slightly amused, "MacLeod, you have managed in one sentence to use two of the oldest defenses in the book, perpetrator as victim, and insanity. Sorry to tell you, but both of those excuses went out with the twenty first century." "Q, don't interrupt me, you'll have your chance. Captain, Tuvok, Chakotay, there's one more thing I need to say, and I'll be finished. Q brought something up earlier that I didn't get a chance to address. I do lock Methos in our room every night, but not for the reason you think. He has nightmares almost every night. Now, if I had lived his life and had nightmares, they would be of torture I'd suffered. His nightmare is that he will become Death again. He dreams of all the people he's killed. He hasn't taken a life outside of a challenge in thousands of years. But he still remembers what he was and fears he will become that monster again. How long is he supposed to suffer for what he had been so long ago? He never has nightmares about anything that has been done to him. The real reason is probably because he thinks he deserved it all. He's put his own suffering in the past, but he can't put behind him what he has done. He doesn't wake up from his nightmares out for anyone's blood but his own. The third time I had to stop him from trying to take his own head in the middle of the night, I started locking up the weapons and locking the doors. He has a conscience, and he will never again become the man he was, that man is dead and buried." "Yeah right, " Q snorted in amusement, "that monster is still in there just waiting for an excuse to come out and play. Don't kid yourself MacLeod. I guess love really is blind. How quaint." "Q, if that were true, it would have happened after I broke him out of that research facility, or have you conveniently forgotten those forty-two years of hell he lived through just two hundred and fifty years ago. Where was Death then?" Tuvok couldn't help himself from maintaining proper procedure, "Q, Duncan, you will address the tribunal and not each other." "I'm done, Q your turn." Duncan sat back down in his chair and waited for Q's next move. "The reason Death didn't return after you broke him out was because the man was a basket case, a turnip, a rock, whatever you want to call it. He couldn't even wash himself or feed himself. The man couldn't speak for thirty years, never mind wreak havoc." "Thank you Q, you've just made my point for me. If he were ever to become Death again, it would have been then. Instead he retreated within himself. The last thing I would like to point out is that you have all gotten to know Methos over the past two months, do you believe he has been rehabilitated?" --- They came for Methos at dawn, and Tom had not yet regained consciousness. The pilot returned to awareness to the sound of screams, screams he recognized as coming from a human. Methos was tied to a post again, this one shaped like a t. The whole village had turned out to see the odd pale creature who wore strange armor. The leader was determined to figure out how the creature's magic worked. Methos was stripped naked and examined from head to toe. The knife came out and Methos readied himself. The first test was just a small slit on his chest. It healed within moments, and the Chief was ready for his next experiment. This time he made a deeper cut along Methos' thigh. It wasn't working, every time Methos tried to separate his mind and body, he kept being drawn back to the here and now. "How does your armor work stranger?" "It's not armor, my people heal themselves, it's part of our bodies, it won't work for you." "I do not believe you." The next cut he made was to peel the skin from Methos' shoulder down to his wrist on his left arm. That's when he started screaming, he couldn't help it. He began his age old mantra, but it wasn't working. "Hmmmm, the creature feels pain through the armor, yet repairs itself." The rest of his body was experimented on, but in all places the wounds were healed. Pain to the genitals must be common to males of all species, for the leader spared Methos that agony. Methos thanked Gods long forgotten for the unconscious sympathy all males gave each other's sensitive spots. With that thought he realized the man was not trying to torture him, just figure out how he worked. It didn't make the pain any less. He had given up trying to battle the torment , and just let it course through him, not caring, or even realizing how he sounded. Making noise helped, nothing else did. The man had stopped his experimentation to talk to the leader of the hunting party, "Are you positive it was dead after you shot it?" "Yes, absolutely, it stopped drawing breath and its blood was not flowing." "If this is not armor, why does this one heal and the other does not ? If it is a function of its species, they should both have the ability. You," he was pointing to a youth, "take your mount and go to town and bring back a healer, I want to know what he makes of this strange animal." He turned his attention back to Methos and stared at him for a moment making a decision about what to do next. He put his hand on Methos' abdomen, then moved it around his torso, leaving his hand in each place until he found what he was looking for. He plunged the knife into Methos body, cut out his heart and threw it onto the ground. Methos died from the shock before the blood already in circulation in his body stopped flowing. "Let's see if it recovers from this." Methos revived in twenty minutes to a hushed crowd, he had died from having his heart cut out before. < that's not so bad, a quick painless death once you got past the initial shock. Boiling oil was much worse, as was being put on a pike, being crucified, and burning at the stake, Methos> he told himself The leader cut out his heart three more times before he was convinced a new one would grow back every time. It was noon and they decide to take a lunch break to talk over the strange man's abilities. They left Methos tied where he was. After lunch, it was more of the same. This time Methos made no attempt to keep quiet. His effort to send his mind on an inner journey was a total failure. He had tried to focus on Duncan MacLeod and the good times they shared, but all he saw was the fight he had with Mac four hundred years ago over the Horseman. He would never forget the way his friend had looked at him during that ugly confrontation. Q's resurrecting his past only let him see Duncan judging him. He assumed Mac had learned more of the ugly deeds he had committed and was not allowed the solace of sending his mind to happier times. He could only think about Mac's reaction to what he was learning of his lover's life history. He was stuck in the here and now, with Mac lost to him there was no safe place for his mind to retreat to. --- The members of the tribunal adjourned to their deliberation room and locked themselves in. Rationally, they knew Q could hear them and know what they were doing, but it felt good to lock the door behind them. They spent six hours arguing and bringing forth different points, but in the end their decision was unanimous, it was time to announce the verdict. Captain Janeway was the one to state their position. "Q, Duncan, this has dragged on long enough, let me get straight to the point. We have decided to call a mistrial." She looked at the two advocates sitting in front of her to gage their reaction before continuing. "We did not settle on a mistrial because you have violated every procedure in the legal code Q, that would have been enough, but then you would have had a chance to re-present your case. The reasoning behind our verdict is, we are not qualified to sit in judgment of Methos. When you can fill a tribunal with his peers, then you are welcome to re- try your case. Somehow, I think you might have a problem finding three men or women that qualify as his peers. Now send us back to our ship, and Q, I don't ever want to see you again." Unbeknownst to the tribunal or the defense, Q had returned to the Continuum as soon as the verdict was announced. He was beaming like a proud parent showing off his children as he addressed his peers. "I knew they would come to the right decision. Now that you know they do not to presume to judge what they don't understand, will you let me interfere? I did everything according to your terms, you can't say I wasn't convincing in my role. I have to admit, I was brilliant." Female Q still didn't want her mate becoming further involved. "Q, that wasn't our only consideration for your interference. You know they will not appreciate what you are going to do for them, don't you? Already, they are casting you aside and want nothing to do with you." "You forced me to put them through a traumatic experience, how do you expect them to react. Kathy will forgive me. I have other friends to occupy me until she does. Besides, this species has a history of protecting endangered species on their homeworld. If they ever find out what we have done, we can use their own history of environmental protectionism to justify our actions to them. After all, the entire Universe is our homeworld." The head of the tribunal was the one thought Q would be the hardest to convince, but he surprised Q by giving his approval first. "Q, you may go ahead with your plan, but use subtlety, I am still concerned with setting a precedent in getting involved with corporeals petty squabbles." "Q," Q's spouse still wasn't convinced, "they are not your friends, they are nothing more than pets." She had been resentful of her partner's fascination with the corporeal species she found so dull since he had first become enchanted with them. She had to remind herself that if it weren't for the Captain of Voyager, she would not have her son. That didn't mean she had to allow her mate to continue to be obsessed with the boring, limited creatures. "When she rejects you because of what she thinks you have done to them, are you going to be able to walk away? I will not give my approval unless you agree to do so. I know you want them to like you Q, I don't know why, but I won't witness a Q being harmed by the emotions of mere pets." "Yes Q, if she rejects me, I won't push her, after all as I have already said, I do have other human friends. And you Q?" The last member of the Q tribunal still hadn't given his verdict. The decision needed to be unanimous for him to be allowed to carry out his plan. "Q, I am beginning to understand your fascination with this species. Maybe I will adopt some of them myself. The one called Methos is especially interesting." "Back off Q, the humans are my species. Find your own. I think the Ferengi are available." --- Q returned to the courtroom without any of the people knowing he had left and continued with the conversation where it had left off, "But Kathy, you still need my help, Meth..." "Q, you are not even allowed to say the man's name. What you have done to him is unforgivable. I don't want you near me, my crew, or my ship ever again. And I especially don't want you near Methos again. Do you understand me Q? More importantly, are you going to respect my wishes?" "Kathy, I haven't done anything to him. He doesn't even know what's going on. I spared him the pain of this trial out of the kindness of my soul. If he was acquitted he would not have known anything, and if he was convicted, he didn't need to know. You didn't actually believe that line about not occupying the same time and space did you? I control the dimensions Kathy, or have you forgotten?" "Q, none of your rationalizations will change what you've done. Now return us to our ship, and stay out of my way. I don't know if I can ever forgive you for this." "But Kathy, you don't realize what you're doing, you need my help." "Q, you've caused enough problems. I may forgive you for your sadistic game in time, maybe when hell freezes over!! For now, just return me to my ship and stay away. Would you have really killed Methos if we found him guilty or were you just having fun with us?" "Yes, if you found him guilty, he would have died." Everyone except for Q was surprised when the female Q appeared in the courtroom. "Q, you promised, now leave them. We have things to do. Little Q is wreaking havoc in the Centauri sector, or have you forgotten your son in the midst of this obsession of yours? Captain, I will give you a piece of advice even though you have not asked for it and you will not appreciate it. Do not turn your back on a Q's offer of help again. You cannot know what your pride is costing, but you will soon enough. Oh, and Chuckles, when you see your Helmboy again, tell him Q tried his best." --- They dumped Methos back in the pit at nightfall. This time he didn't land on the body of his friend, but hit the ground with an oomph as the air rushed out of his abused form. Tom was awake and aware, having managed to sit himself up against the wall of the pit a few hours earlier. He had set his own leg, so didn't need any help from Methos. They sat in silence while Tom waited for Methos to speak. He didn't know if his friend wanted to talk about what had happened, so he didn't push the man. The screams that he had heard all day were seared in his mind and he didn't want to disturb him further. After an hour of deathly silence in their shared cell, Tom couldn't keep quiet any longer. "Methos, I am so sorry." "Save your pity, Paris, nothing happened to me that hasn't happened before." Methos was taking his bitterness out on the only person available and six thousand years of betrayal and pain were evident in his tone. "I can't believe this! I'm trying to apologize to you and you lash out at me." "Apologize Thomas? Save your guilt, I don't want it either. Are you forgetting just exactly how we ended up here?" Methos practically spat out the last of his words. He couldn't control the flood of emotions taking over his mind. He didn't want to hurt Tom, but he needed to lash out, to hurt something, anything. He had to get control before he did something he would regret. It was too much, his long buried past being brought back to the forefront of his mind combined with the new trauma, he was losing himself to the blackness and didn't know how to stop it. Tom had had enough as well. Listening to his friend yell in agony all day had destroyed any control he might have managed, "Fucking Idiot! Pay attention, I'm apologizing for not trusting you enough to do what you had to do. If I had trusted you enough to let you kill me, we would never have been captured. If you do it now, we can get out of here tonight. Just get it over with, Methos." "Ohhh, and how exactly do you think I can accomplish that? Hmm? If you hadn't noticed my arms and legs are tied. And if you didn't hear, I haven't had exactly the best day. Kill your fucking self! Infant! " "Methos, listen to me, I'm sorry, I really, really am. What they did to you, it's my fault. I'll get us out of here don't worry. I've never killed myself before Methos, do you have any suggestions?" Tom was trying to lighten the mood, but it wasn't exactly working. "Tom, do you know how tiring it is to die? No, I guess you don't. You're going to find out soon enough. I have a confession to make Tom, you might not want to go through with your plan when you hear it." Methos was using the last of his strength to confess to the young man. He was thirsty, hungry and exhausted. He wasn't exaggerating, dying several times in one day took allot out of a person. "Tom, the truth is, I was being selfish when I suggested killing you. I still believed that Q would come find us and execute me. I had no idea at the time there was any danger from unknown natives. I thought Q would return before anything would happen to us. I wanted to kill you so my quickening wouldn't be lost when Q took my head. Your being whole again was just a side benefit. If there isn't another immortal around when an immortal loses his head, his essence has nowhere to go. If you hadn't suffered your first death before I was executed, I would have ceased to exist. If you were already immortal and able to absorb my quickening, part of me would live on. More than part of me actually. If my quickening was the first one you had experienced, there would be more of me than you in you. Do you understand? Bringing you over was going to be another in a very long line of selfish acts in my life. It was easy to rationalize that I was doing it for your sake. I can make even the most selfish of actions into self-sacrifice in my mind. I've had allot of practice." "It doesn't matter what your reasoning was now, Methos. We don't have a choice anymore. I can't sit through another day of listening to them brutalize you. Who's being selfish now? While I was sitting here listening to you screaming today, I wasn't giving what was happening to you a second thought. Every time they killed you, I was just grateful you stopped making any sound. Now Dammit, tell me a way to kill myself without a weapon. Do you think you might be up to suffocating me? It'll make me shut up." "Sorry Tom, as much as I'd like to shut you up, your body won't give in that easily. I don't even think I could hold you down if I weren't exhausted and didn't have my hands tied behind my back." Methos could feel the darkness that had been threatening his soul begin to recede as he spoke to Tom. He was centering himself in their plan, and his survival instinct was taking over his consciousness. "There is a way, but it will be hard for you to do. I managed it once but it was under extreme circumstances." "Methos, I think this situation qualifies as extreme. What do I do?" "Rip some cloth from your shirt, and tie a strip as tight as you can around each of your forearms." It took Tom a few minutes to manage the task given him, "Done, what now?" "Let your arms go numb, they will after a few minutes." "OK, they're pretty numb, now what?" "Bite through the veins in your wrists. It doesn't matter which one first, just be sure to untie the cloth as soon as you can so the blood can flow. " "You've got to be joking, I can't bite through my own arms, can you do it for me?" "No, I can't Tom, you can't move to get closer to me, and I wouldn't be able to hold you down even if I could get to you, you're going to have to do it yourself. I warned you it was going to be difficult. Do you still want to go through with this?" "If you managed it, so can I. I want the whole story at some point though. I can't even imagine what would make you come up with this." "No, Tom, you don't want the whole story. Hurry up and do it before your arms are too numb to lift to your face. It's going to take you awhile to revive and we need to give ourselves a head start. Hopefully they won't notice we're gone until morning." "OK, here goes. Are you sure this is going to work Methos? What if I really die?" "Tom, trust me." Tom brought his left wrist to his mouth first and tried to bite through the now prominent vein. He briefly wished he had the teeth of a Klingon or even a Ferengi, then set to work. He was able to puncture his skin easily enough, but was having a difficult time getting the vein to stay between his teeth. It kept rolling around in his mouth, so he flexed his bloody wrist a few times to get the vein to stand out more. He was gnawing instead of biting and didn't think it would work. By the time he was able to puncture the vein, his arm looked like ground meat. He did it though and untied the strap he had placed around his arm earlier. The blood started to flow freely out of his arm, and he briefly considered not going through with the other arm. He knew he had to, so set himself to his task. After all, if both arms were bleeding, he would die much faster. He started to wonder what is was going to be like to die as he loosened the binding around his right forearm. He settled himself back against the wall and waited. "Methos, would you talk to me, I'm a little nervous." "What do you want to talk about?" "Will you tell me a story?" "OK, but pay attention to your arms, if they start to clot, you're going to have to re-open the wounds. Keep them beneath the level of your heart and just be sure the blood keeps flowing. What kind of stories do you like?" "Tell me about the Wright brothers, you knew them right?" "It figures you want a flying story. Yeah, I knew them. I first heard what was happening at Kittyhawk while Orvil and Wilbur were still in their initial design stages............." Methos had gotten as far as describing the design of the first airplane and the revolutionary theory of lift when Tom lost consciousness. He decided to finish his story anyway. By the time he had gotten to the point of the first successful flight, Tom was showing signs of reviving. --- The two Q's vanished and the away team found themselves back aboard Voyager in the same positions they had been in almost two weeks earlier. Captain Janeway looked at her crew, and only saw the aftereffects of the past week and a half's worth of stress on their features. "OK people, does anyone have any kind of theory as to what that was all about?" Tuvok was the only one with anything to contribute, "Captain, we will never know Q's motivation for anything he does, I recommend we apply the same logic to Q as we did to Methos. We are not Q, therefore we can not presume to know the reasoning behind his actions." "Not good enough Tuvok, he put us through almost two weeks of hell and we're supposed to say 'Oh well' and move on? I don't think so. He gave in too easily to our decision. He's up to something and I want to find out what. I don't like being used as a gamepiece." Duncan was just relieved to be back on Voyager and have Methos out of danger. "Captain, I don't care why he did it. It's over, it's time to put it behind us."" "Duncan, can you really forget what you've seen so easily?" "No Captain, I can't, but I am going to try. I would appreciate it if you would try as well. if you can't treat Methos the same way you did before the trial, stay away from him. I don't want him knowing what happened. It's..." --- Harry Kim and B'Elanna Torres were on the bridge when the away team returned to Voyager. They had instructed the computer to notify them as soon as the crewmembers were returned. They were in the ready room as soon as they knew everyone was back. B'Elanna practically ran into the ready room and Harry was right on her heels, "Captain, am I glad to see you. Are Tom and Methos with you?" "They're not here? They were never with us." The Captain turned to the rest of the tribunal looking for answers, "You don't think this is the reason Q gave in so easily do you? Why would he take Tom also?" "Captain, Q didn't take them, they left Voyager on a shuttle four days ago. Something about if Methos were killed here Voyager would be destroyed. What happened at the trial? Tom was positive Q would return either both of them or just Tom when the trial was over. They left because Jamison was going to execute Methos if Q didn't return you within a week. He left a message telling us to contact them with a wide-beam polaron burst when it was all clear. We've been hailing them for the past two days, but they haven't responded." "B'Elanna, what's going on? And what does Jamison have to do with any of this? You're speaking in riddles." Harry answered for the babbling chief engineer, "Captain, Tom explained everything in the message he left for you. If Q doesn't have them, something's wrong, we have to find them." When all four of the participants in the trial were up to date on what had happened on Voyager while they were playing Q's game, the Captain was fuming. She began speaking into the air, hoping to contact Q. It was the only way she knew of to contact members of the Continuum. If she felt silly speaking to no one, it didn't show. "Q, I want them returned and I want them returned now. Haven't you done enough damage already?" Tuvok didn't believe the Captain's words would have any effect on the Qs. "Captain I must point out that Q tried to tell us we needed his help to find Methos. I do not believe he will help us now. The female Q made that quite clear when she came to collect him. I do believe we will be able to locate them. The Female Q used the word 'when' not 'if' when she gave the Commander her message." "I remember her phrasing quite clearly, Tuvok. It's the rest of her message that worries me. We're wasting time, they couldn't have gotten too far in the past four days." Commander Chakotay had been reading the personal message Tom had left for him while the conversation was flowing around him. He finished reading as the Captain finished speaking. "Captain, when they left, Tom did a pretty good job of scrambling Voyager's sensors. By the time everything was back on-line, their warp core trail had dissipated. They could be anywhere. I want to take a shuttle to look for them. We can double our search area if we have two ships looking. I'm concerned they haven't responded to the prearranged signal. I think we can assume through Q's warning they've run into some kind of trouble." "No Commander, we only have one shuttle left. We can't risk losing it. We will find them. I suggest we start looking now." Duncan had finally finished the message Methos had left for him, wishing he had read it in private. He had unshed tears in his eyes when he put his hand on the Commander's arm, "Chakotay, let's go to stellar cartography, they'll have the most complete readings on this sector. Chakotay, I can still feel Methos, he's alive. Methos is a survivor, it's what he does best, you should know that now. He'll take care of Tom." "Duncan, Methos has a distinct advantage over Tom in the survival department." Chakotay couldn't help the look of disappointment he sent the Captain as he left the ready room. Female Q was right, Q tried to help them, and Kathryn rejected him because of her pride and anger. Chakotay was too worried about Tom to admit he was guilty as well. --- "Q," the female Q was growing bored with her mate's obsession, "You promised me you would stay out of it. She's still angry with you. She only wants your help to find her crew. She will send you away as soon as you do what she wants. Humans are selfish Q. She isn't giving one thought to what you're experiencing." "Humans aren't the only self-absorbed ones here Q. You're jealousy isn't letting you see anything beyond how this affects you. I'll keep my word, but I think I'm feeling guilt. I'm not sure, I've never felt anything like it before." Q had a look of amazement on his face as he spoke to his partner. "Q, you are doing them a favor, I don't care if they are to stupid to understand. It really is too bad about Methos, he is the only interesting one of their species I've ever observed. Helmboy might become interesting in another four or five thousand years. Who would have imagined that? I'll compromise with you Q, you can help them on their new home planet until Voyager finds them. Nothing too obvious now, you know the restrictions the Continuum put on your plans. You have to promise me to stay away from Janeway though. That woman is nothing but trouble. Now, don't you have a war to win? Tell me your plan. I want to help, this could be amusing." --- Tom revived to the worst headache he had ever felt in his life. He clutched his head between his hands, but it didn't help. It felt like his brain was being pierced by thousands of tiny needles. "Welcome back Tom. Sorry about the headache, that's me you're feeling. I'll try to remember to tone it down. I haven't had to mask my quickening in years so I forgot." "Is this how you recognize other immortals? Is it how you knew I was one of you?" "Yeah, like I said, I'll try to tone it down until you get used to it. You'll only be able to feel me within a certain range, it differs with each of us. You'll figure it out soon enough." "Why didn't you warn me that was going to hurt so much." "Which part, the biting through your own arms like an animal caught in a trap, coming back from the dead, or my overwhelming presence?" Methos was trying to joke with Tom. The seriousness of the situation and the realization of just exactly how much his friend's life had just changed was interfering with his planning abilities. "Tom, right now we have to get out of here. We'll talk about anything you want to once we're safe, OK? Now come over here and untie me." Tom was a little unsteady on his feet when he first got up and checked himself out, gingerly hopping up and down on each leg. "Well, I guess it's official, I'm a freak." "Do you think Duncan and I are freaks Tom?" "No, but you've been this way since I met you, I never thought of you as anything else. I'm just going to have to get used to me being this way is all. Come on let's get out of here. You do have a plan don't you?" "Were you conscious when they brought us here?" Tom had untied Methos and helped him to his feet, giving him his shirt to cover his nakedness. Methos stood looking up at the opening about four feet above his head. "Yeah, they threw me over the back of one of their Zebras. We came from the south, maybe half a days ride at a trot. Are we going back to the shuttle?" "No, but we have to go back to the camp. I took everything we needed from the shuttle already. Your Bat'leth, two of my swords, two daggers and two phasers are still in that camp. They were hidden pretty well. We also need some clothes. Once we've gathered what we need, we run." "Run? Run where? Can't we steal one of their Zebras?" "Tom, those are not Zebras. Zebras don't have fangs. We can't make any noise, and we don't know how to ride those beasts. We're going on foot and we're not stopping until we can't take another step. Then we get up and do it again. We're going as deep into the mountains and as high up as we can possibly get. After this disastrous first contact experience, I plan on hiding. Voyager should be able to find us. I think Q lost the verdict and got pissed off so he didn't tell the Captain where we are. It's been too long for any other explanation. Now, boost me up, and then I'll help you out. The nights are long here, I think we should be at our camp by daybreak." Tom went to Methos to help him climb out of the pit, but pulled him in for a short intense kiss first, "OK, I'm ready to go now, put your foot in my hands. I'll throw you up to the top." "What was that for Tom?" "I don't know, I just felt like it. I think we're going to be busy for the next few days. Let's go we're wasting time." They made it out of the camp without incident and began to trot to the south. Methos recognized the outcropping of cliffs signaling where the shuttle had crashed, so was able to ascertain the general direction their camp had been in. They ran without stopping for anything but water for ten hours. It was the worst ten hours Tom had every experienced in his life. That included shuttle crashes, his court-martial, and even prison. Every time he stopped to catch his breath, Methos would be next to him pulling him to his feet. Maybe surviving wasn't so important if it meant moving his feet one more step. Somehow he made it. Later he wouldn't remember anything from their first run. They were about to start on another, longer, more demanding marathon. Methos let Tom rest while he gathered their things. He went to where Tom was sitting carrying two small bundles. He threw the smaller of the two packs to Tom, "Here, find some way to strap this to yourself. We're going jogging again. This time we're not stopping after ten hours, Tom." "What's in here?" "Your weapon, two pair of shorts, one shirt, and two days worth of emergency rations. I tried to make it as light as possible. " "What about water or a tricorder? How are we going to figure out what's safe to eat and drink." "If you die from it don't eat it again." "Very funny Methos." "I am not trying to be funny. If you want to weigh yourself down with unnecessary equipment, feel free. We are going to run until we drop Tom. I mean it, you have no idea what we are about to do. Let's get out of here, this is the first place they're going to look for us. Daybreak is in about half an hour." They set off on their marathon, Methos leading the way and Tom following. Sixteen hours later, Tom collapsed and Methos wasn't much better off himself. "Methos, I don't think I'll ever move again." "Your body has accelerated recuperative powers now, you'll be fine in a few hours. Eat and drink something and we'll be on the move again. I only need about an hour, but I'll give you three. From what I can tell, we're at about four thousand feet. I want to get to at least eight thousand before we stop. We can't be sure there aren't any settlements until we are at least that high. Try to catch a nap under those bushes, I'm going scouting." "Methos, how can you even move? I think I'm going to die." "If you do, we'll move as soon as you revive, you won't need three hours to recover then." "I don't think I like this cold heartless side of you Methos." "Too bad, my charming self will be back once were safe." --- Tom didn't die, so Methos gave him the full three hours promised to recover. They set off on their run again, this time running as far as they could in a slow moving, wide, shallow river. They were on the move for another eighteen hours, their way being lit by the moon before Methos allowed them to stop again. This time Tom did die. He was fine an hour later and Methos had them on the move again. They ran for the next three days, only stopping when one or the other of them was about to lose consciousness. On the afternoon of the fourth day of their run, they heard the roaring of a large river and headed towards it to slake their thirst. What they found was a waterfall over two hundred feet high. The scene that met them was breathtaking. Tom managed to talk Methos into stopping for a break and he decided to go swimming in one of the shallow pools formed by boulders that had been thrown over the cliff face over the years. The water was cool, they were at a fairly high altitude now. Tom didn't care it was cold as he slunk into the natural pool. The water felt good on his aching body. Methos went to investigate the cliff face and found a tunnel leading behind the waterfall. "Tom, I'm going to follow this tunnel, maybe there's a cave back here we can call home." "You mean we can stop now?" "Maybe, this isn't a very defensible position, but if there's a cave back here it could work." Methos was gone for over an hour before Tom began to worry. He got out of the water and made his way to the cliff face. He entered the tunnel about twenty feet from where the water cascaded into the pool below. He followed the tunnel until it widened out into a massive cavern, but he still didn't see Methos. There was another tunnel at the back of the cavern and he went into it. When he got to the end of the tunnel he immediately realized why Methos hadn't returned. --- "Chakotay, come on, let's go get something to eat. You're going to collapse if you don't take a break." "Duncan, it's been a week and there's still no trace of them. You can still feel Methos right?" "Yes, and I know Tom is still alive too, Chakotay. We will find them." Duncan could not tell Chakotay how he knew Tom was still alive. If Tom had lost his head, Duncan would have felt the young man's quickening through the link he shared with Methos. He didn't know if Tom had had his first death yet, but the longer the two men were gone, the greater the possibility was. He really wanted to tell Chakotay his young lover was an immortal, but it wasn't his place. Tom had to be the one to tell him. Mac just hoped Chakotay wouldn't give up on finding Tom alive. "Duncan, what was in the message Methos left for you? You don't have to tell me if it's too personal. Tom left me a vid message. I'll show it to you if you'd like." "No, I don't mind telling you. Methos left me a vid message too, I've been watching it at least twice a day for the past week. He thinks I might not try to look for him. Actually, he was convinced Q was going to kill him, he added the rest as an afterthought. The fool actually said he would understand if I never came to look for him. When I get him back, he'll regret ever believing that." "Tom reassures me in his message at least ten times that he'll be fine. The more I watch it, the more I believe it. How long will the Captain be willing to stay in this sector searching for them though? We can't stay here indefinitely. If she decides to move on, I want to use your ship to stay behind and keep searching for them. Will you help me?" "Chakotay, I was already working on the same plan. We're going to have to make some modifications to the shields and weapons though. Do you want to start in the morning?" "Yeah, thanks Mac. You know, I've started to get over seeing Methos as anything other than the man I was getting to know before this whole thing with Q started. The week we spent hopping through time is almost a surreal dream now. How are you dealing with it." "I've decided to put it behind me and not look back. It's allot easier to say then do though. Every time I close my eyes I keep seeing him being tortured and it's driving me crazy." "You said almost a month ago that you had lived with Native Americans for half a century, are you familiar with spirit guides?" "Yes, but I haven't visited with mine in almost three centuries." "I have an Akoonah, do you want to make a journey to the spirit world? It might help you to deal with what's in your head. I've been spending all my free time meditating, it really has helped." "Yeah Chakotay, I'd like that." ---- When Tom stepped out of the tunnel that began behind the waterfall, he thought he had died and gone to heaven. It didn't matter that he didn't believe in heaven, this is what it was supposed to look like. Spread out in front of him was a valley for as far as his eye could see. It was surrounded on all sides by a ring of mountains that rose up from the valley floor in sheer cliffs. The mountains were so high they were covered with snow. Only the one behind him was low enough for anyone with enough ambition to climb. There were trees, meadows, rivers, and streams all on the valley floor. After a few minutes, he realized he was inside of the crater of a long dormant volcano. He felt Methos' telltale presence and began scanning the area for him. Methos was sitting on a large boulder overlooking a river about half a mile away. He took his time making his way to where Methos sat, and when he got close enough he could see the huge grin on his face. Tom didn't think he'd ever see that smile again and he realized they had found their new home. "So, what do you think Tom?" "I think we just found the place we're going to wait for Voyager. " "Bright Boy. Let's find a place to make our camp and then find something to eat. We haven't eaten in three days, and I am starving." "Methos, I'm so hungry I could eat this grass." "I think we can find something a little better tasting, come on let's go explore our temporary home." The valley ended up measuring in at about five square miles. In their reconnaissance, they found abundant plant life including fruit and nut bearing trees. Methos was able to recognize some of the plants they found as tubers and dug them up. Both men were relieved the purple tubers tasted nothing like Leola root. The strange color not-withstanding, they tasted like potatoes. At the end of their first day in their new home, they had found a place for their future shelter, found water, food, and security in their hidden retreat. They were quite confident they wouldn't be found by the natives. There was no sign of civilization anywhere nearby, but they were careful and only built fires under the canopy of the forest. Any smoke their fire gave off was diluted by the leaves of the trees. Methos had one other concern before he would let himself relax. He went looking for large animal tracks on his own. Tom was attempting to spear fish in the creek. It was pretty funny, but Methos held his laughter in. By the time he returned to the camp, night was falling, and he felt secure. The largest animal tracks he could find indicated nothing larger than the size of a large dog. They could relax and wait for their rescue. Methos joined Tom at the small fire and leaned against him for warmth. It was a chilly night and neither man was wearing much clothing. "Methos, do you think it's spring or fall?" "I think I'm camping with a city boy." "Why do you always have to make fun of me?" "Ahh Tom, I think the operative word is 'fun'. Does it really bother you?" "No, not really, but it does make me insecure. You are 200 times my age. Sometimes I feel pretty inexperienced around you." "Well, you are. Don't worry, I find you refreshing." Methos snuggled closer to Tom and answered his original question. "It's spring, it shouldn't be getting any colder for months. We should be found by then." "Do you think they're looking for us?" "Yes, even if Duncan decides he never wants to see me again, they'll come looking for you. The Captain, Chakotay, Harry, B'Elan-" "I get the point Methos. I hope it doesn't take them too long to find us. You were right I am a city boy. Right now, I would give anything to feel a Starship beneath my feet and my own bed to sleep in. I would love some tomato soup and a peanut butter and jelly sandwich." "You are quite the gourmet aren't you?" "No, I just like my comfort food. I can't keep my eyes open another second, how do you have so much energy?" "I've been living on adrenaline for the past two weeks Tom, it takes a little while to get back to normal. Good night." He kissed the now half asleep man on the forehead and pulled the slack arms around himself. He sighed to himself, thinking how nice a blanket would be on the chilly night and fell asleep. --- They started on their shelter the next morning. They didn't really need a shelter, but it gave them something to do. Methos couldn't help laughing at Tom's inability to use the rock ax Methos had made them. A full day had passed and they were only able to erect the frame of their lean-to, but they felt as if they had accomplished something. As they were gathering their dinner, Tom informed Methos that he didn't understand why more than half their time was spent gathering food. Methos again found his companion funny. "Welcome to your roots Tom, people didn't always have replicators to supply whatever they needed or wanted. Hell, supermarkets are a fairly new invention. Welcome to the stone age. Around seventy percent of our time will be spent finding enough food to keep us from starving, and another twenty-five percent sleeping and resting from the search for food. Why do you think civilization took so long to grow? It wasn't until the advent of farming and bartering that people were even able to form cities. Once cities began forming, then the exchange of ideas could begin. You're learning firsthand why civilization took so long to develop." "Methos, if I wanted a history of human development, I would have asked for it. I think your equation only adds up to ninety-five percent. I can think of what we should be doing with the five percent we have left over." Tom had moved over to where Methos was digging more of the purple tubers from the ground and wrapped his arms around the smaller man. Methos was a little surprised by Tom's actions. He thought their affair had been a one-time thing, but wasn't going to argue. "Make that ten percent, I'm willing to give up five percent of my allotted sleeping time for what you have in mind." "Are you so sure you know what I have in mind?" Tom picked up Methos and put him over his shoulder as he finished his question. He carried him over to the river and threw him in, then jumped in after him. "You needed a bath, sorry." "And you didn't?" "Hey, I'm in here with you." Methos was starting to feel a little guilty and changed his mind about arguing. He had to explain the entire situation so Tom would at least know what he was getting into. "Tom, we need to talk. I've decided to take you on as a student. When someone first becomes immortal, they need to be taught how to fight and how to adjust to their new way of life. It's wrong for me to continue sleeping with you if you are my student. I'd feel like I was taking advantage of your dependence on me." "Methos, the way I figure it is this. You, me, empty planet, boredom, sex. How hard is it to make a decision? When we get back to Voyager, you have Duncan and I have Chakotay. Sex and friendship works for me, I assumed it would work for you too. Was I wrong? I hope not, I don't really like going without for more than a few days." Tom didn't give Methos a chance to respond before he dove under the water, grabbed his new teacher by the waist and hoisted him into his arms. "I'm a little bored right now Methos, how about you?" "Just as I decide to acquire ethics, I'm corrupted by an embryo. If Duncan is a child, you're not much more than a zygote." Methos was laughing at Tom again and Tom decided to make him stop. "I think I can find better uses for your mouth than your non-stop sarcasm Methos." "Not in the river Tom, I can't hold my breath that long." Methos was still in Tom's arms so he wrapped his legs around the man's hips. He decided he could find a use for his mouth after all and pulled Tom in for a kiss. Tom's hands were occupied cradling Methos' ass, so Methos wrapped his arms around Tom's neck to give himself purchase with the slippery wet man holding him. "Mmmm, very nice Methos," was all Tom could say when his mouth was released. "Where did you learn to kiss like that?" "Like what? This?" He took control of their kiss again, thrusting into Tom's mouth with his tongue. He knew it was all the thrusting he'd be doing this time. "Tom, this water's a little cold, let's go onto the bank." "Uh, Uh, I like the water, cold showers have never worked for me." He adjusted the man in his arms so he would have better access and moved one of his hands around to readjust his hardening member. He wasn't joking when he said cold water didn't have an effect on him, he was hard as a rock within minutes of rubbing himself against Methos own, not quite as hard cock. "Tom, as you can tell, cold water does effect me." "Doesn't matter, you won't be using that until later." Once he had himself in position to enter the man he was still holding, he put both hands back on Methos' hips. Methos helped out with the positioning and as Tom began to enter him, he pulled him further in by wrapping his legs even more tightly around his waist. Poor Tom was loosing his concentration and the two of them fell into the water in a heap, Methos pinned to the bottom by the body above him. They were still meshed together, and Tom used his legs to push against the bottom and propel them towards the shore. They weren't in very deep water, and reached the shallows before either man lost his breath. Luckily they had both felt the coming fall and gulped in air before they were submerged. They ended up in little more than a foot of water and were able to keep their heads above the surface without any thought. Methos had never lost the his grip on the man penetrating him and just wrapped his legs tighter, demanding further stimulation. Tom didn't disappoint him. Tom like to be ridden hard, but he also liked to be the one doing the riding. With Chakotay, he didn't want to lose control when he was the more active partner because he was afraid Chakotay would no longer let him fuck him. He liked it too much to let that happen. With Methos, he instinctively knew he could fuck him as hard as his body demanded without causing damage or pain. Yet another thing they had in common. Tom let himself lose control and pounded into the accepting figure beneath him. Methos just held on as tight as he could. His nails were scratching deep channels into Tom's back, but neither man noticed until later. He clung on for dear life as he was thrust into with a force he loved. . Primal instinct was taking over his rational mind. He lost the last shred of control he had and just held on. Tom's body was stimulating the organ trapped between the rutting men and Methos could feel his pleasure reaching its peak as Tom continued to fuck him mercilessly. His body was screaming towards orgasm and he let his voice go with it. Methos could hear Tom whispering into his ear as he came in the water, mixing his own fluids with the liquid of their river. Tom's words weren't making any sense, "fuck fuck, love ya, tight, hot, fuck, Methosssss Ahhhh," and Tom joined him in his bliss with a shout. Neither man lost consciousness this time and they were able to drag themselves out of the water when they were coherent once more. They flopped onto the sandy bank at the bend of the river side by side on their backs. "Methos, I think I could get used to this." "Tom, you haven't seen anything yet, your body's recuperative powers extend to your sexual recovery time. You have ten minutes before I return the wonderful fuck you just gave me." Methos kept his word and returned the favor in full, plus interest. --- The bridge of Voyager wass not a pleasant place to be any more, Harry had decided. Tom and Methos were still missing, Chakotay and the Captain were barely speaking, and MacLeod was hailing the bridge at least three times a day for a progress report on the search for the two missing men. Harry expected the Captain to reprimand Mac for bothering them so much, but Captain Janeway wasn't in the mood to reprimand anyone. No one had told Harry what had happened while the away team was gone, but he knew whatever had happened had a profound effect on Voyager's senior staff. Even Tuvok was affected. The normally quiet Vulcan had become almost mute over the past month. Harry swore at his console under his breath as he found seventeen more M-Class planets within Tom and Methos' projected area. That brought the total up to sixty-seven planets they had to manually scan in hope of finding the missing crew. In the past month they had managed to scan one planet a day with round the clock staffing. How long would they continue the search? Even after a four and a half weeks the Captain gave no sign of calling it off. Harry couldn't help but wonder if she would spend so much time looking for him if he was the one who disappeared. He was sure the Captain was feeling guilty, but why? Once again, he found himself missing Tom. Tom was his link to Voyager's gossip network. Without Tom to fill him in on the intricacies of relationships, he was left in the dark. He wasn't totally clueless, but the subtly of gesture and motivation was lost on him. Harry never ascribed motives to other people's actions, but Tom did and was usually right on the mark. Harry was having a hard time accepting the two men's deepening relationship, their lovers were missing and could be dead, and they were acting as if they were the lovers. Harry didn't usually assign motives for other people's behavior because he was usually wrong when he tried. He should have remembered that. He left his shift to go to the mess hall and found B'Elanna there when he arrived. "Hi Harry, how was the tomb today?" "You mean the bridge?" "Yeah, like I said the tomb. What's gotten into Chakotay? I haven't heard him say ten words outside of giving orders in the past month. Tuvok hasn't even said that much. I don't know how you make it through the day Harry. I would be throwing things at them just to make sure they weren't dead." Harry had to laugh at the images B'Elanna's words had put into his head, but then sobered when he processed the last word she spoke. "B'Elanna, I'm really worried about Tom. What if we never find them? What if he's already dead?" "Harry, you know Tom has nine lives, we'll find them. I know we will." "I'm glad your so sure B'Elanna, it looks like the Commander and MacLeod have already given up." "You're wrong Harry. They've been spending all of their free time trying to get the Darius spaceworthy just in case the Captain calls off the search. They're going to go looking themselves if Voyager stops looking." "I don't think she'll call off the search even if it takes us a year. She won't stop looking until she knows what happened to them. B'Elanna, did you know Jamison's been in the brig for a month? She didn't even make Suder stay in the brig and he killed someone!" "He's still there?" "Yeah, I feel sorry for the guy. He's an idiot, but he doesn't deserve to be locked in the brig for the next 60 years." "Harry, you wouldn't feel so sorry for him if you knew why he and Tom got in that fight a few months ago." "B'Elanna, I can't follow everything that's going on here. I think I'll just do my job and keep my mouth shut." --- "What are you doing Paris?" Tom walked into their camp covered in mud from the riverbank and wearing a loincloth. He picked up one of the crude spears Methos had made and was about to leave the camp. The sun was just coming up and Methos was still half asleep. "I'm going hunting. I am having steak for dinner tonight. Yesterday while I was exploring I found some hoofprints. If it's got hooves, I'm eating it. I've been living on nothing but fruit, berries, nuts, and grass for who knows how long, and I've decided to catch us some meat." Methos was rolling around on the floor of the shelter hysterical with laughter by the time Tom had finished his declaration. "Oh, it's the great white hunter!!!! Have you ever even eaten real meat Tom? I'm not talking about the replicated stuff, I mean bloody, warm, kill it yourself, cook it and eat it meat?" "Methos, I'll have you know I've been on away missions where we had to kill stuff to eat. I've done it before. I'm going hunting. If your really nice to me I'll let you share." He bent over and kissed the man on the ground before he turned around and headed out of the camp. "Good luck. I'll cook some grass for you while you're gone. You'll be hungry when you get back." Methos didn't think Tom would be able to catch one of the pig-like creatures who made the tracks Tom had found. Methos saw the same tracks the week before and had tried to catch one of the creatures without any luck. If he couldn't catch it there was no way Tom was going to. He got up and started his daily food gathering chore wondering how long Tom would try to catch some meat before he gave up. Tom returned to the camp at dinnertime with a dead animal draped over his shoulders. He was looking awfully proud of himself when he dropped the pig-like creature at Methos' feet. He was covered in blood. It was in his hair, on his back, all over his arms, and his chest was covered in it. He had an 'I told you so' look on his face that Methos was getting really tired of. "I see you bled the animal before it became inedible. Did you have to smear yourself in it?" "You're just upset that I caught dinner. If you skin it and cook it I'll share with you." Tom had moved over to Methos to embrace him, obviously aroused after his primal hunt, but Methos stopped him in his tracks, "Go get in the river or I'm not touching you. You look like something out of Lord Of The Flies." "What? Lord Of The Flies? Wasn't that some kind of twentieth century dance craze? What does hunting have to do with dancing?" "You. Are. An. Ignoramus." Methos had stood up and punctuated every word by stabbing his index finger into Tom's chest. "It's my fault though, I've been neglecting your education. You're getting good with a sword, but you are totally ignorant." "Ignorant? I was educated at the best schools in the galaxy." "Trust me, you're ignorant. Your education starts after dinner. Can you speak any languages other than Federation Standard. I've heard you swear in other languages, but that's not what I'm talking about." "I'll have you know I am fluent in French." "Good, we'll start your Latin lessons after dinner." Tom grumbled about Methos' superiority complex the whole time he bathed and the whole time he ate dinner. He was prepared to resist Methos' efforts to educate him, but then decided to just go with it. It wasn't like they had anything else to do on this planet. When they were through with the lesson they spread themselves out on the ground to look at the night sky. Both men were lost in their own thoughts, but Tom wanted to talk. "Methos, do you think they've given up? How long do you think we've been here?" "I don't know. The days and nights here are pretty long. I think my body is still trying to live on a twenty-four hour cycle, but it's starting to give in. My best guess is we've been here about a month." "I think it's been longer, I still miss Voyager you know. I can't believe they've given up. What exactly have you done that makes you think they would leave you here?" "I guess you have a right to know. I'll start telling you one story a night. It should help your history education, but you still owe me a story for the Kittyhawk tale I told you." "Methos, I was dead for most of that story. Besides, since you are 200 times my age, and you think I need to be educated, I think you should tell at least ten stories for every one of mine. You can start with how you met Duncan MacLeod of the Clan MacLeod. Jeez, that guy needs to lighten up. Does he always introduce himself like that?" "That was a pretty good impression Tom, but Mac's not the only one who needs to lighten up. Chakotay's pretty stiff himself. What do you think they're doing right now?" "Hopefully looking for us. I don't believe Mac's given up on you Methos. I've only known you for a few months and I would never give up on you. He's had 400 years to become obsessed with you." "That's a really nice sentiment Tom, but keep it to yourself until you've heard some of my stories OK?" "Speaking of which, come on give, I want to know how you met Duncan, then I'll tell you how I met Chakotay. I'll bet you grass gathering duties for the next week that mine's worse." "Deal. I was living in Paris at the time. I'm pretty sure it was 1995, or maybe 1996....." "Hey, I was on Earth then!!" "You're delusional Tom." "No seriously, I'll tell you about it after I tell you how I met Chak. I think It will be my turn again in about two weeks. Sorry to interrupt, you were in Paris...., kinda like you have been recently." "Funny, Tom....OK where was I? I was undercover, hiding from other immortals as a Watcher..." --- "Chakotay, you have to talk to her." "Duncan, I'm still upset we haven't found them yet. If she hadn't been so angry with Q, Tom and Methos would be here right now. They've been gone for almost three months now Mac. They could be hurt or they could have been captured by the Delta Quadrant nasty species of the week. They could be anywhere! What if they think we left them? How do you think they feel right now? Tom's insecure enough to believe we've written them off." "I don't believe that Chakotay, and neither do you. Everyone was angry with Q, Chakotay. If she hadn't said something to him, you or I would have. Their being missing is affecting her to, at least we have each other to talk to. We've even got a project to keep us busy. It's bad enough she feels responsible for their disappearance, but you not talking to her is eating her up. Tuvok is pressuring her to move on. He's using his damned Vulcan logic to justify leaving them. He's still stuck on Mrs. Q's using the words 'when we find them'. He thinks if we move on or stay we'll find them. If you don't talk to her, she might just start believing him." "Don't push me Duncan, you talk to her if you're so concerned. After all, you know Methos is still alive. I don't have that same luxury when it comes to Tom. All I can think about is how alone he must be feeling right now." "He's not alone, he's with Methos. And they are fine, I refuse to believe anything else. I'll talk to the Captain tomorrow Chakotay. I wish you would also." "Is his being with Methos supposed to make me feel any better? I don't know why I'm so worried, they're probably holed up on one of the 40 planets we still have to check, having sex three or four times a day, living like Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer." "That's the spirit Chakotay, let's go spar on the holodeck and talk to the Captain tomorrow. You'll feel better afterward. One thing though, I don't think Huck and Tom ever had sex." "Are you trying to take over Tom's position as ship's comedian? If you are, you need allot more practice Mac. I'll talk to Kathryn tomorrow." Chakotay and Mac had had this conversation before. But this time Chakotay decided he'd let go of some of his worries. MacLeod just seemed so sure the two missing men were fine that Chakotay had to believe him. What choice did he have? --- Tom and Methos had spent the day fishing, having sex, hiking, having sex, sparring, having sex, hunting, and then having sex. They settled down to Tom's language lesson after dinner and then it was Methos' turn to tell another story. He told Tom about the time he had been shipwrecked in the South Pacific and spent six months as the only person on an island that was nothing more than an Atoll. Tom got the point to the story and wasn't impressed. "Methos, this is a little different. You were on an island, someone was bound to find you eventually. We may be stuck here for a long time. As near as I can tell, we've been here for over fifty of this planet's days. Before I started counting, you said you thought we'd been here for a month. So we've been here at least three months, maybe four. There's no way Voyager is still in this sector. Let's face it we're stuck here." "If we are, we are. There's nothing we can do about it." "So what do we do? Hide in this valley forever? Methos, I love you and all, but I need a little more stimulation than this." "Look on the bright side, when the indigenous civilization begins space travel, we can leave." "So we're each other's only company for the next 500 years. I don't think I like this living forever thing anymore Methos." "I think it's going to be more like 2000 or maybe 3000 years. I don't think the natives have even invented the wheel yet." Tom sat up and threw the shirt he had been using as a pillow at Methos. "Not funny old man. How are you so calm about this?" "I'm going to give you some of the wisdom of the ages Tom. Usually I don't indulge, but I'll make an exception. I met a wise man while I was traveling in India a few millennia back, you may have heard of him, his name was Buddha. He taught me that true happiness can only come when you live in the present. No looking back, don't look forward further than necessary, and enjoy every moment. It's worked for me." "Methos, how old were you when you learned that little gem?" "I think I was around 3000 or so, why?" "Because for someone so old and wise, you're pretty dense. I learned that particular lesson by the time I was twenty-five years old." Tom was laughing at the clearly insulted man sitting across from him. "You impudent little brat. Pardon me if when I was your age, we had to figure things out for ourselves. We didn't have thousands of years of other people's experiences to base our philosophies on. If you want to know something, all you have to do is talk to a machine. Spoiled 24th century child. See if I ever try to share what I've learned with you again." "Oh, I don't know Methos, I like some of the things you've taught me." Before Methos could respond, Tom was in his lap, removing the older man's shorts. He bent down to take Methos into his mouth and was met with a sigh of pleasure. "Paris, you are insatiable." Tom didn't have a response, his mouth was busy. "You are a good student though, and you seem to enjoy your homework." Tom halted his efforts and looked up at Methos, "If you're still talking, I haven't been studying enough." Methos took Tom's head in his hands and put him right back to work on his studies. "Ummm, Tom?" "Mmmmmm?" "I think I'd like to be in Paris again." --- "What do you think Chakotay and Duncan are doing right now?" Tom was laying in the tall grass of the open meadow while Methos was practicing Tai Chi. Methos ignored his question. "Hey, can you hear me?" "Yes, but I'm trying to concentrate. What made you think of them? You haven't said a word about Voyager in the past three weeks." "I don't know. Sometimes I forget we're waiting to be rescued, and then it all comes back. I miss Chakotay. Do you think they're together yet?" "Tom, I don't think they will ever get together in that way. I thought they would at first, then I realized those two alpha males would never be able to agree who would be the bottom. They'd end up wrestling for dominance every time they tried to have sex. I think they've become pretty close by now, but I don't think their relationship will ever be as much fun as ours. Feel better?" "No, I feel worse. Chakotay's all alone." Tom fell asleep in the grass while Methos continued his exercises. Tom was dreaming of flying Voyager when his pleasant dream became a nightmare. Voyager was being attacked by five larger ships and he couldn't get his ship away from the raiders. He woke up to Chakotay screaming in agony as his console exploded. The yelling wasn't all in his head though. There were five warriors in their valley and they were all attacking Methos. He had left his sword in the grass while he was meditating so he was armed and able to fight back. They hadn't seen Tom sleeping in the grass so he had the advantage of surprise. He joined the fight, he also had his Bat'leth next to him while he slept. Methos had been drilling into his brain the importance of keeping his weapon close. Until now, he had thought it silly, but he was grateful for Methos' insistence. By the time he joined the fight, Methos had killed two of the invaders, leaving only three. He engaged one of them and Methos continued to fight the other two. Within five minutes, the rest were dead. Methos had blood on him from head to foot, but Tom couldn't tell whose blood it was. He ran to where Methos had collapsed and pulled him into his arms. "Methos? Are you OK? Where did they come from?" Methos wasn't responding, so Tom picked him up and carried him into their camp. He set him down by the river and began to clean the blood off of him. Methos still wasn't responding, so he covered him with the fur blanket they had made and went to clean up the mess of the bodies. Tom was digging the graves when Methos finally came back to himself. He sat down on the ground next to the hole Tom was in and apologized, "Sorry, I got lost in the past for a minute there. I haven't been in combat in a couple of hundred years. I started flashing back to other fights and couldn't stop. It happens to me every time I get in a fight. Once the actual combat is over, I go on a little trip through my past. I was running tests on myself when we were on Voyager to figure out why it happens." Tom had stopped digging and sat on the edge of the hole with Methos. "And?" "My memory engrams are pretty full. My synapses start firing and they go haywire. I could do a partial memory wipe on myself to free up some space, but I wouldn't be able to pick and choose what stays and what goes. I wasn't willing to do that, so here I am, doomed to be a wreck after every fight I get into. I don't want to bury the bodies." "Why not, they're going to stink in a few hours. It's pretty hot out." "You'll see, but first, I want to see if we can do something about camouflaging the entrance to the tunnel. " They went to the tunnel that led out of their valley and were surprised by what they saw. "Tom, I don't remember this tunnel ending behind the waterfall, if I remember correctly, it came out about twenty feet to the side." "You're right. This is really odd. I could have sworn it ended over here. How did they find the entrance?" "Luck I guess. Lets clean up their tracks leading in and hope no one comes looking for them. I have a plan if they do though." "Yeah, luck all right, bad luck for them. We're going to have to be more careful now. I think we should move our camp to a place it's harder to see." "That's part of my plan. Come on let's get to work." --- Chakotay was on the bridge for the second half of his double shift. No one forced him to work double shifts three times a week, but he wanted to. He was in charge of the now four and a half month long search operation. They had found so many M-class planets in this sector, Chakotay wished he was back in the void they had found Duncan and Methos in. His relationship with the Captain was no longer strained but he still couldn't spend any time with her. She was so guilt ridden over losing Tom that Chakotay couldn't stand to be around her. Her guilt was totally misplaced. It wasn't her fault, but she didn't see it that way. Duncan still hadn't lost faith, but Chakotay found himself passing hours at a time when he didn't think of Tom. The longest he spent without thinking of him was two full days. Of course they were his off duty days, while he was on duty he was coordinating the scanning efforts. The good news was that with the abundance of M-class planets came every mineral they could ever need, food that was edible, and shore leave for the whole crew. In addition to the months they were able to repair Voyager while in the void, Voyager was functioning as if it just came out of spacedock following a retrofit. Duncan and he had become very close friends, spending almost all of their off duty time together. They had never progressed to a sexual relationship, and Chakotay knew they never would. There just wasn't any spark there. He knew the crew called them the dud brothers behind their backs, but he didn't care. If people thought they were boring, they could just stay away. That would suit Chakotay just fine. Duncan was able to socialize with the Captain, explaining he knew what it was like to brood over a situation nothing could be done about. If he was examining his life he had to admit to himself that Duncan was counseling him as well. They went on spirit journey's together and Duncan was available to talk about Methos' changing life, putting things into a perspective Chakotay never would have found on his own. , Chakotay's stray thought was interrupted by a puzzled, "What the hell?," from Harry at the Ops station. "Commander, I think you should look at this." Chakotay was rapidly covering the distance between their stations as he spoke, "What is it Ensign Kim?" "I was running a preliminary scan on the next solar system we're about to enter and all of a sudden, this showed up on my terminal." Harry gestured to a large red X covering the fifth planet in the system on his screen. "Q." Chakotay tapped his combadge and began issuing orders, "Commander Chakotay to Duncan MacLeod, report to the bridge immediately. Chakotay to Captain Janeway, there's something you should see." As the two summoned crew walked onto the bridge, Chakotay began speaking, "Captain, Mac, take a look at this." Duncan looked at the screen for a minute before he understood, "X marks the spot. Do you think Q did this?" The Captain wasn't convinced, "Why would he do it now. We're less than a week from finding them if they are on that planet. We've been searching for four and a half months and he decides to help us when we are about to find them on our own. Maybe it's a trap the natives of the planet set for unwary travelers." Chakotay just knew it was Q's handiwork, "Captain, I'm convinced it's Q's way of extending the olive branch. But I agree with you why now? We would have found them within the week anyway." Duncan was getting a very bad feeling, "Maybe they don't have a week, they're in trouble." Captain Janeway became all business as soon as she heard Duncan's words and knew them to be the truth, "Batehart, maximum warp to that planet. Duncan, Chakotay, Harry, Tuvok, you're all with me. Meet in the shuttlebay in ten minutes. We're going to get them. Hopefully Q will send us another treasure map." --- On the planet, Tom and Methos were fighting off the fourth wave of attackers in as many days. This time the strike force composed of ten armed and armored invaders. In the two weeks since the first attack, they had built fortifications and also fashioned crude bows and arrows. The second group to find them was a war party out looking for the missing hunting party. They were never sure how their valley was found by the natives. They hadn't lit a fire since the first attack, and they had covered all of the original men's tracks. Maybe the locals knew where the valley was and they knew where their hunting party had gone. They would never know. Methos' plan to fortify their position was a good one and they were able to fight off the second and third raiding parties without too much trouble. But now it was ten against two, and both men were tired from the previous attacks. Tom could only think of Methos' warning as he prepared to fire another arrow. Methos was being surrounded by four of the remaining warriors, and three were coming at Tom. The last thing Methos had told him before they spread out was imprinted in his memory. "Tom, if one of these creatures accidentally takes my head, you need to be prepared. My quickening will find you. When that happens, raise your weapon over your head to slow it down. It will be the worst pain you will have ever felt in your life. Imagine being hit by lightening, then multiply that by a hundred. The only consolation is that it will probably kill the rest of the war party and you should be able to get away. As soon as you recover, run, run, run. I'll be there with you though, actually in you." "Methos, you're worrying me. Will you do the same if they get me?" "Yes, but your quickening won't knock the rest of them out like mine will. Sorry, but I've got about 6000 years behind my quickening. Quickenings tend to build in strength over the years. When you're my age, yours will be impressive too." "If I ever get to be your age." "They've just entered the valley. Maybe they'll just turn around and leave when they see our calling card. No such luck, here they come. Are you ready? You go east, I'll go west. Take as many out from a distance as you can. Love you." Methos pulled Tom in for one last kiss and then disappeared into the brush. Both men had painted their normally pale skin green to help camouflage themselves. If they were to be outnumbered five to one, they needed every advantage they could get. --- Chakotay had piloted the last remaining shuttle out of Voyager's shuttlebay less than twenty minutes after getting Q's message. The Captain herself co- piloted. Harry Kim began his preliminary scans of the planet looking for human lifesigns as soon as they left the shuttlebay. He wasn't having any luck. "Commander, I'm sorry, there's too much gamma radiation being given off by the sun. We're not going to be able to scan until we're inside the upper atmosphere." Captain Janeway didn't mind the breach of protocol Harry had committed by giving his report directly to the Commander. "Chakotay, take us to the planet's equator and we'll start the search pattern there and work outward." She tried to reassure her crew and herself, "Chakotay, Duncan, we'll find them. They'll be on board within the hour, this planet's not very large." The shuttle entered the upper atmosphere as the Captain finished her sentence and Harry and Tuvok began scanning the continents, Harry searching the Northern Hemisphere and Tuvok the Southern. The only sound in the small shuttle was the intermittent beeping of the computer reporting the results of the scans. Duncan had remembered to stop in sickbay to get a copy of Methos' unique electrical signature from the doctor. It should make finding them easier. "Captain, I am reading signs of a primitive culture. We must move higher into the atmosphere or we will be seen by the inhabitants. Their technological level is equivalent to approximately the third millennia BCE of human society." Tuvok had to remind his Captain of the Prime Directive, she seemed to have forgotten about it. "No Commander, we continue on course. Has anyone else noticed how cold it's gotten in here all of a sudden?" Duncan hadn't noticed until the Captain pointed it out. "My panel says the air temperature in this shuttle has dropped by 20 degrees in the past three minutes." "Chakotay, take us back to where we first entered the atmosphere." It took them less than a minute to retrace their steps. "It's getting warmer again. Q? What game are you playing?" Five degrees warmer when they headed south, five more warmer when they headed east, five more when they went inland over a large continent. It was past comfortable in the shuttle when the temperature suddenly dropped twenty degrees as they moved towards the plains. When they headed up into a nearby mountain range, it became unbearably hot for everyone in the shuttle except for Tuvok. Harry was scanning the tallest of the mountains when a large red X again appeared on his viewscreen, covering a point almost at the peak of the very mountain he was scanning. "Captain, Q's sent us another map. Heading 147 degrees 43 minutes latitude, 101 degrees 12 minutes longitude." "Commander, set course, maximum speed. I don't think I need to tell you to watch out for mountainsides." Chakotay wasn't listening, he had already programmed in the coordinates and set the autopilot. He was unstrapping himself when the Captain grabbed his arm. "Where are you going Chakotay?" "I'm jumping out as soon as you land us. I'm going to get the med kit and phasers. Duncan, are you coming?" As they approached the coordinates given them, the Captain had to take over for the autopilot. All four of the men had lined themselves along the two hatches waiting for her to set them down. She was just beginning to make out figures in the valley the coordinates indicated when she realized there was a battle going on. There were two groups of combatants 100 yards apart. She set the shuttle down precisely between the two of them. She made out one human figure in each group, one towheaded, and one dark. She followed Chakotay and Harry towards the blond figure and Tuvok and MacLeod ran to the battle the dark headed man was engaged in. All five members of the away team had their phasers drawn as they ran. Tom had finally engaged the remaining three natives that had pursued him. He had been able to shoot two of them with arrows before they got to close, but he was forced to meet the other three. He felt his body taking over. His senses were heightened, allowing him to almost feel the attackers surrounding him without looking at them. He was fighting for his life, his body knew it on a primordial level and took over for his mind. His daily sparring matches with Methos paid off as he sliced through the man trying to come up from behind. He didn't need to look to know exactly where to strike. He had his Bat'leth back in front of his body before either of the other two attackers could get close to him with their weapons. Their arms were a good half a foot longer than his, but he had the deadlier weapon. The natives had not learned how to make formidable armaments out of metal yet, and that was the only reason Tom was able to hold his own for as long as he was. He was slicing through their armor, cutting into their flesh, and they were barely touching him. They made progress as the battle continued but only because two against one wasn't exactly even odds. He didn't feel the wounds they were inflicting on him, the surge of adrenaline he was experiencing allowed him to fight through the injuries he sustained. He had dispatched the smaller of the two remaining warriors and was facing the third when he heard it. He would recognize that sound anywhere, it was a Starfleet shuttle, and it was landing! He lost his concentration for a split second and was knocked onto his back by his opponent. The last thing he heard as the sword came down was a scream of "Noooooooo" coming from somewhere behind him. Methos had been able to kill one of his five opponents with an arrow before the rest had surrounded him. He killed another with his dagger before the man knew what had happened. Methos' subconscious mind remembered his time in their camp when the camp leader had looked for his heart. The hand that had examined him had gone to the right lower quadrant of his abdomen first. That was where he struck with his dagger. The creature went down without a sound, his heart having been pierced by the unexpected thrust. That was the last thought Methos had. If Tom had experienced his body taking over his mind in a face to face battle to the death for the first time, for Methos, it was a familiar feeling. As he began his skirmish with the three remaining figures, he let his instinct, experience, and body's demand for survival take over. He was a work of art. Methos possessed quickness his opponents had never seen or faced. He was within their defenses, slashing with his dagger, stabbing with his sword, and deflecting most of their blows away from his own body. He suffered cuts, slices and bruises he did not feel. The third of his opponents lost his head when he got too close to Methos' swinging broadsword. The next to fall was the one who came at him attempting to use brute strength alone. The warrior obviously did not realize his smaller foe would be able to sidestep him easily and cut through his back without turning around. The man died instantly and Methos was left with only one adversary. This one was quicker and stronger than the other three had been and went on the offensive immediately. They were fighting a battle of pure instinct and Methos began to lose ground to his opponent's longer reach. He was disarmed and on his knees before he knew how it had happened. The brute of a man above him raised his weapon and swung with all of his might at Methos' neck before Methos even recognized he was in danger of losing his head. He hadn't lost his concentration when the shuttle landed, in fact, he didn't even realize they had company. He felt the blow to his neck at the same time he saw the man swinging the weapon be blasted by obvious phaser fire. As the world went dark he felt Duncan's unmistakable presence. --- Chakotay jumped out of the shuttle before it actually landed, and Harry Kim was right behind him. As soon as the Captain finished landing the shuttle, she followed. Chakotay was only thirty yards away from the fighting when Tom turned his head for a split second and lost his footing, falling onto the ground on his back. The creature he was fighting raised its weapon and plunged it into his body. Time stopped moving for Chakotay as the blade pierced Tom's chest through to the dirt beneath him. The creature pulled his weapon out of the prone body on the ground, pulling the impaled figure off of the ground with it. When his blade was free of the body, he raised it again to thrust once more into the still figure. Chakotay began firing and yelling "Noooooo" over and over again. He paused only to set his phaser to a higher setting and continued to fire at the staggering native. His shots were joined by two others streams of energy as Harry and the Captain joined the shooting. The creature fell and didn't get up. Its chest was a mass of blood and burns. Chakotay had set his phaser to kill in his bloodlust. They would never speak of it, but the Captain and Harry had also taken their phasers off stun when they saw Tom impaled. Chakotay ran the rest of the way to where Tom lay, shouting his name. He gathered the still form into his arms, running his hands through the long, curling blond hair. "Tommy, Tommy, come on sweetie, open your eyes, it's Chak. Come on honey, open your eyes for me. Can you hear me? Tom? Tom?" Harry pulled the medkit off the Commander's shoulder and started examining his friend. He ran the tricorder over the still man and began to cry. Tom was dying and there was nothing they could do for him. Even if the doctor were there, Tom couldn't be saved. Harry shut the tricorder and collapsed onto the ground, rested his elbows on his knees, cradled his head in his hands, and began to cry like a man who had just lost his best friend. Harry's reaction was not lost on the Commander or the Captain. Chakotay shook the man in his arms trying to get a response and began yelling his name. "Tom... Tom... Tom...?" All the Captain could do was put her hands on the grieving man's shoulders. They were too late. Damn Q and his games. Tom Paris couldn't be dying, she had spent the past four months searching for the lost man and he was stolen from them just as they found him. Tom fought death, he didn't know why, his body was screaming to shut itself down, but this time his mind took control. He used the last of his strength to open his eyes and reach his hand out to touch Chakotay's cheek, "Chak, is it you? Really?" He stroked his lover's face, wondering why in the world the man was crying. "Chak, it's OK....." Death claimed Tom Paris as he tried to comfort his lover. "No... Tom... Tom... no... Tommy...", Chakotay hugged the still form to his chest and wrapped his arms around the blood soaked man. Harry picked up the tricorder he had dropped and examined Tom again. They were too late. He was gone. Tom Paris, his best friend and closest confidant over the past five years was dead. Tom who had survived when all the odds said he wouldn't. The charmed life was over. Harry got up and stumbled away. He couldn't share his grief, especially not with the man he was most jealous of in the entire universe. Chakotay had the courage Harry had lacked and it was Chakotay who had enjoyed Tom's love for the past half year. He let his jealousy fall away and mourned for Chakotay as well. Kathryn stood behind the man who had been her closest friend since their journey began. She didn't know what to do for him. She had her own grief to deal with. The young man Chakotay had called her 'personal reclamation project' years earlier was gone. If only she had begun their search in this direction instead of that direction. If only she hadn't lost her temper with Q, if only she had let Chakotay take their last shuttle and work on a second search. She was if onlying herself into madness when she tried to get Chakotay to release the grip he had on Tom's body. Chakotay laid Tom back on the ground and looked at his lover. Tom had blood all over him from head to toe. His body was covered in blue blood mixed with red blood, green body paint, and dirt. He looked like a child playing war, but he wasn't a child, he was a man playing war and he had lost. Chakotay couldn't take his eyes off the man he had searched for for the past four months. Tom was wearing a leather loincloth and his body was in better condition it had ever been in his life. . His normally short blond hair had grown past his collar and was loosely curled around his face. Chakotay kissed the cherub faced angel laid out in front of him. He would clean him off. Tom didn't deserve to look like this. Chakotay picked up his lover's body and carried him to the bank of the river he had seen while they were landing. He laid him down on the bank, took off his own shirt and began his absolutions. The Captain left him to his chore and set off to find Harry. Her grief could wait, she had crew to take care of. She had forgotten about Duncan and Methos in her grief and went looking for Harry, who had taken off in the opposite direction from the second battle. --- When Duncan saw Methos on his knees about to lose his head, he fired at the creature who was in mid swing. He had set his weapon to vaporize while he was running towards the battle, and he hit his target just as the blade connected with Methos' neck. The sword continued on its arc even though its owner had been atomized. It cut into the flesh of Methos' neck, but without direction, it cleaved downward instead of across. It cut a path from Methos' neck through his collarbone and halfway down his chest before it lost its momentum, and buried itself in his body. Methos fell forward and the blade sliced further through his torso, almost cutting him in half from neck to hip. Duncan didn't know if even an immortal could survive such damage, but there was no telltale quickening signaling Methos' final death. He reached Methos just after Tuvok did. Tuvok had not taken the time to atomize the attacker, so arrived at Methos' body first. The Vulcan pulled the sword out of the wound and laid him out flat on his back. Methos, like Tom, was covered in a mixture of red and blue blood, green body paint and dirt. There was more red blood in the mix than anything else. Duncan ran his hands over the wound, trying to feel the healing energy building, but there was nothing. He used his hands to hold the two halves of the upper body together, hoping having them in contact would stimulate the healing. He sat like that, with Tuvok at his side to wait for Methos to revive. Tuvok understood what Duncan was doing so he removed his shirt and began ripping it into strips that were as long as the material allowed. He pulled Duncan away from the body and sat him back a few feet. Mac hadn't moved or spoken a word since they came on the grisly scene. Tuvok didn't give him a thought as he began to lace the strips of his uniform around Methos' chest. He basketwove the strips as tight as he possibly could, taking his time to make sure all of Methos' internal organs were within his body and not on the ground. He held the two halves of the man together while he tucked the organs into place and finished tying the bandages. He sat next to Duncan to join the vigil. They waited another half an hour, but still nothing happened. Captain Janeway followed Harry's tracks towards one of the surrounding mountains. She found him sitting on the ground looking up at the trees. She let her eyes follow his gaze and was revolted by what she saw. There were at least twenty dismembered bodies strewn throughout the trees in front of a tunnel entrance. Four of the bodies were in wooden cages with their own heads tied around their waists. She sunk to the ground next to Harry but couldn't make herself look away from the scene that met her. All of the bodies belonged to natives, and all of them were wearing armor. They were obviously a war party of some sort, but how had Tom and Methos managed to kill so many of them when they were so out numbered. And why were they in cages and strewn around the trees? Harry looked up at his Captain with tears in his eyes, "Do you think Tom and Methos did this Captain? It's so brutal, I can't imagine Tom doing something like this." "Harry, it's obviously a message to stay away. I wished they would have listened." The Captain sat down next to the Ensign and let her tears flow as well. "Captain, he can't be dead. I keep seeing him get stabbed over and over again in my head and all I can think is that if we had been thirty seconds earlier, Tom would be laughing at our timing right now. He would say something stupid like 'Captain, I'm the one who's supposed to ride in at the last minute and save all of you. Think about what you've just done to my reputation.' Captain, I can still hear the last conversation I had with him. I've been going over it in my head for months now. If I had stood up to Jamison sooner, none of this would have happened." "Ensign Kim! None of this is your fault!" The Captain softened her tone when she realized Harry really believed he should have been able to stop Tom. "We can't blame anyone, Harry, sometimes things just happen." "Is Methos OK? I'd like to talk to him about Tom." The Captain was up and heading back toward the battlefield without answering Harry's question. He got up and followed her. "I forgot about Methos. Harry, let's go find the others." They didn't stop at the creek where Chakotay was. Chakotay had pulled Tom's now clean body into his lap and was softly talking to him. They left him his privacy and continued to where Duncan and Tuvok were still holding a vigil over Methos. Methos hadn't moved and it had been over an hour. He was no longer bleeding, but there was still no healing energy. Duncan was becoming worried. The old man was usually totally healed in less than half an hour. He had been cut in half. Mac had never heard of an immortal being cut in half before, so he didn't know what to expect. The Captain sat down beside him and he took his eyes off his lover for the first time since they had found him. He too had pulled his lost mate into his arms, but unlike Chakotay, he thought he was getting his back. "Duncan, how is he?" "Dead Captain, and showing no sign of reviving. I'd like to get him back to Voyager. Are we leaving soon?" "I think Chakotay needs a little more time with Tom first. But if you believe its necessary to get Methos back to the ship immediately, we'll go now." "Captain, don't tell Tom about Methos not reviving until we have to. They've been each other's only company for months now. I don't want to worry him until it's time to worry." Captain Janeway looked at the man sitting across from her holding the still form in his arms. He and Methos were a mirror image of Chakotay and Tom, but he didn't know it. He didn't know Tom was gone. "Duncan, I'm sorry, we were too late to save Tom. He's dead. Chakotay is sitting over there holding him just as you're holding Methos. I wanted to leave him alone for as long as he wanted. If we have to go, we'll go. I don't want to lose both of them." "Chakotay.", Duncan had put Methos into the Captain's lap, covering her in blood in the process. "Captain, if he starts moving, call me immediately. I have to talk to Chakotay." Captain Janeway studied the dead man in her arms. She knew he wasn't really dead, but she still thought of him that way. His hair had grown in the past four months, and it looked like he hadn't cut it once. The paint on his face and body, combined with the blood all over him only reminded her of the Methos Q had shown them all those months ago. In death he looked more like the Methos she had seen murdered by his God. She remembered the vilified corpses in the trees and she could see the Methos who called himself Death On A Horse as well. She had thought she put the trial behind her, but seeing him for the first time since then, in this situation, brought everything back. She motioned for Tuvok to watch over him and she went back to the shuttle to start the pre-flight preparations. She had a suspicion that she would be the one flying them back to Voyager. Duncan walked up to where Chakotay was still cradling Tom in his arms, still talking to him. He was telling him how he had never given up on finding him for the almost five months he had been missing. Duncan had to stop this. "Chakotay, he's not dead." "Duncan, denying the truth doesn't make it go away." "Listen to me, he's not permanently dead. He's an immortal Chakotay." The look on the Commander's face told Duncan his explanation didn't go over very well. Either Chakotay didn't believe him, was incredibly angry with him, or both. "If what you are saying is true, why hasn't he revived yet? It's been over an hour. You yourself said you revive in less than half an hour." "Chakotay, he hadn't suffered his first death yet, immortals are just like everyone else until they die the first time. He's taking a long time to revive because he's young. For all we know, this could have been his first death." "Where's Methos? I want to talk to him." "He hasn't revived yet either, he was cut almost in half. . We need to get him back to Voyager. Can you handle carrying Tom yourself, or do you want someone to help you?" Chakotay got up and laid Tom out on the ground. He stood face to face with Duncan and was clearly angry, "Why didn't you tell me before this MacLeod? I spent almost five months not knowing if he was dead or alive. Of course you were so sure was still alive." Chakotay's voice became suddenly, deceptively soft. "How long have you known? Well?" Chakotay was mere inches from Duncan's face, All of the months of fear for his lover and his horror at having seen him brutally killed in front of him radiating from him. "Answer me. How long?" MacLeod put his hand out to the other man, trying to soothe the Commander. He was truly sorry that he hadn't discovered Tom's "death" sooner. He would have saved his friend this pain. "Since the night that we arrived on Voyager, Chakotay. Methos and I sensed that he was Pre-Immortal when he was standing outside of our quarters, the first night that the two of you came to eat dinner with us" "You Son of a BITCH!!!!" Chakotay swung at the Immortal for all that he was worth. MacLeod sidestepped the blow, then retreated somewhat to put a safe distance between them. He didn't have any desire to cause Chakotay any further reason to be angry with him. Chakotay started to pursue him, but pulled himself up with effort. He looked at Duncan with an expression of disbelief and betrayal. A choked sound reminiscent of a laugh escaped him, "Spirits, I always wondered why you were so damn sure that Tom was still alive. I was feeling guilty I didn't have faith the way you seemed to. You said that you could "feel" Methos. Guess it slipped your mind to mention to me that you could "feel' Tom as well. What the hell were you thinking? I trusted you. I thought that you were my friend. I have endured five months of HELL never knowing if Tom was dead or alive and you never saw fit to mention to me that he was an Immortal?" Chakotay was trembling from the tumult of emotions surging through him. Grief, fear, horror at the memory of the Alien stabbing Tom over and over, unspeakable relief that Tom was Immortal, lingering doubts that MacLeod might be wrong, anger, a sense of betrayal that his "friend" hadn't told him this. A dim part of Chakotay's mind tried to reason with him that MacLeod was his friend and had had a reason for what he did, but the voice of calm was quickly ignored. Chakotay's outburst came to a sudden halt as he flung his back on the Immortal, fists clenched. In another moment, he was quite sure that he would flatten MacLeod. The Highlander drew a deep breath, refusing to allow his emotions to get the best of him. His feelings were dangerously close to the surface as well, but lashing out at this man would help no one. Besides, it just wasn't in his nature to take out his own pain on someone else. Duncan knew that the Star Fleet Officer would calm down soon enough as long as he didn't do anything to further inflame the situation. "Chakotay, believe me, I wanted to tell you. I couldn't. It wasn't my place. It was Tom's decision, I wouldn't be telling you now if he weren't dead. If I did tell you and we got him back before he suffered his first death, what would you have done then? Would you have been able to keep it from him? This isn't the time or place for this argument Chakotay. Do you need help with him or not?" Chakotay reigned his temper in for the moment. "I can handle it on my own. You're right, this isn't the time or place for this discussion. But, make no mistake, we will finish this, Highlander. " Chakotay picked up Tom's body and headed for the shuttlecraft, the rest of the crew joined him and within fifteen minutes they were on their way back to Voyager. Once they were out of the atmosphere and well on their way home, Chakotay called everyone into the back of the shuttlecraft. Tom and Methos had both been laid out on the single bunk, side by side. Duncan was sitting at the foot of the bed, not taking his hands off Methos for a second. Chakotay had stationed himself on the floor at the head of the bed. "Captain, Tuvok, Harry. MacLeod has something he needs to tell you. Mac?" "This really isn't the way this is supposed to happen. It should be Tom's choice to tell you or not, but that choice has been taken away from him. It really is very personal and I hope you can let him decide whether or not anyone else finds out." "Duncan, Tom's beyond any decisions now. Is it really necessary for you to share whatever it is your going to say with us?" Captain Janeway really did not believe it was their place to be talking about the secrets of a dead man. And exactly what secret could MacLeod know about Tom that they all didn't? They had known Tom Paris for five years, he had known the man for two brief months five months before. Tom chose that moment to revive. Well, he didn't exactly choose it, but revive he did. Harry passed out, Janeway understood immediately, and Tuvok just arched an eyebrow - or two. "Ummmm, Hi? Can I have a drink? I'm really thirsty." Tom was looking at his friends staring at him and he was getting a little uncomfortable. He vaguely remembered the last battle he and Methos had been in, and didn't remember dying at all. Chakotay grabbed his hand just to be sure he really was there and alive. No matter what Duncan had said, Chakotay didn't fully believe until he saw it for himself. "Tom, you don't know how glad we are to see you. It's no wonder you're thirsty, you lost most of the fluid in your body. Are you all right?" "You didn't give up. We thought you had given up on us." Tom sounded truly amazed his friends hadn't stopped looking for him. Captain Janeway couldn't hold back her tears. She didn't like to cry in front of her crew. It didn't look good for a Captain to lose control, but these particular people were more than crew to her. Tom, Tuvok, Chakotay, even Harry, they were hers, her responsibility, her friends, her surrogate family. "Oh, Tom, we didn't give up on you for even a minute. We had round the clock staffing on the scanners looking for you. We never should have lost you in the first place, Tom. Lay back down and get some rest. We'll transport you directly to sickbay when we get back." "Captain, you don't understand, I'm fine, I don't need to go to sickbay ever again." He noticed Methos on the bed next to him as he finished talking. He examined the bandages and the deathly pallor of his features and shot Duncan a confused look. "Tom, I don't know what's wrong with him. He's been out for almost two hours." "What happened to him? He usually revives within half an hour." Chakotay realized this hadn't been Tom's first death and the thought scared him. "Usually? Just what have you two been doing?" "Gentlemen, the debriefing can wait. Tom, please humor me and get some rest. I watched you die just two hours ago. You may be used to it, but I'm not. Sit back and enjoy your Captain chauffeuring you. You may never get the opportunity again." He shifted position on the small bunk so he could put Methos' head on his chest. He began to stroke the long silky hair and kissed him on top of the head. "I know you'll be all right now Methos. It will just take some time." Chakotay and Duncan just looked at each other. Everyone had forgotten about Harry on the floor, but he made himself known. "Tom, how long have you known you're one of them?" "Not until a few days after we crashed on the planet. Oh Shit the crash! Sorry I wrecked another shuttle Captain, Chakotay's still up by two though. Since this is the only one left, your record's safe Chak." Tom reached out and tousled the Commander's very short hair, making it stick up in spikes. "Chakotay, do you know how often I dreamed about this? You know, you finding us? We had decided we were stuck there until the natives killed us or discovered space flight. Guess which one we thought would happen first?" Tom couldn't hold back a yawn and the Captain motioned for Harry and Tuvok to return to the front of the shuttle with her. She set up the privacy field and prepared for their return to Voyager. The Captain kept her word and Tom and Methos were transported directly to sickbay. the Doctor could found no sign of life in Methos but decided to try the dermal regenerator anyway. As soon as the energy from the regenerator hit him, he began to revive. The doctor and Tom watched as Methos' body healed itself without any help. "Guess he just needed a jump start, Doc. If you could remember that little trick just in case I need it sometime, I'd appreciate it." "Mr. Paris, what I would appreciate, is if you would put some clothes on. This is a sickbay not a nudist colony." Tom blushed to the roots of his hair and put on a pair of sickbay pajamas. Methos watched the whole scene from his biobed and began laughing at Tom. "I'm glad you're alert enough to enjoy your favorite pastime Methos, but you aren't meeting the dress code either. Not to mention all that blood you still have all over you." The doctor handed Methos a pair of pajamas and pointed towards the shower facilities. "Mr. Paris, you might want to join him, you're not exactly clean yourself." He pulled Tom aside and asked him to make sure Methos was strong enough to shower on his own. He had tried to give the man a hypospray to combat his dehydration, but had been met with a 'don't touch me' look that he recognized all too well. It was the same look Tom had given him earlier. Just wonderful, a Tom Paris who was now convinced he was indestructible. The old Tom Paris already thought he was indestructible, now he was convinced of it. He put the clothes, if you could call them that, the two of them had been wearing into the recycler and began his report on Methos' recovery. The Doctor had grown to like the oldest man when they had worked together and was pleased to have him back. The way he had responded to the regenerator was very odd, and the Holodoc decided to write a research paper on the phenomenon. He decided to look up the exact date the dermal regenerator was invented and wasn't surprised the date coincided with the time Methos had been a research subject. The energy signature emanating from Methos matched the energy from the dermal regenerator exactly. He thought of the report he would write. He knew it would never be seen, but would any of his reports ever be seen? He was still pondering the questions he had raised in his memory banks when all four members of the away team came barreling into his sickbay. "Doctor, where's Methos?" Duncan was worried when he didn't see Methos in the sickbay. "Where's Tom?" Chakotay had allot on his mind and needed to see Tom again to be sure the whole day had actually happened. "They are showering, the two of them had enough blood on their bodies to supply another whole person. Not to mention the dirt, vegetable pigment, and other organisms. They will be done shortly. I'm going to assume you all want to wait for them here?" The doctor was being sarcastic again, he didn't think of his sickbay as a waiting room. "No Doctor, I'll be on the bridge if any of you need me. Harry, why don't you go let B'Elanna know we found them and they're going to be all right. Doctor, I assume since Methos is showering, he's fine?" Harry knew the Captain was trying to give the two couples privacy, so gave no argument. He would talk to Tom later. It was going to be hard not to tell B'Elanna about Tom's condition, but he made a promise to himself not to slip. Harry didn't know how to react to the shock of finding out Tom was one of them. Weird, very weird. He needed to talk to Tom He figured the Commander wouldn't be letting Tom out of his sight for awhile. Maybe the Captain would talk to him about his best friend's new life. He needed to talk to someone. Harry briefly considered telling B'Elanna, but decided he had to wait to talk to her until Tom did. It wasn't going to be easy. Harry left the sickbay before the Doctor finished his report. He needed to think some more before he saw Tom again. --- The Doctor began cleaning up his work area in an obvious attempt to dismiss the healthy visitors. He suspected he was the only one who understood exactly how difficult it was going to be for the two men to be re-integrated into life on Voyager. "They are both in perfect physical health, except for dehydration that neither of them will let me treat. Their mental state has yet to be determined. I am going to keep them overnight, then they will be free to go. And before either of you two," the Doctor pointed at Chakotay and Mac, " ask, the answer is no. You may not sleep in sickbay tonight. You can have fifteen minutes with them and then sickbay is off limits to everyone except for medical emergencies. You may collect them in the morning. Also, they need to come back for some tests. I'm not releasing them to duty until they both pass a complete psyche scan." "Doctor, they have been gone almost five months. I don't think we need to even consider when they will be fit to return to duty for quite some time yet." The Captain left the sickbay and went to her ready room. She made a shipwide announcement announcing their return and asked the crewmembers to give them some time to re-adjust to their lives. She thanked everyone for their understanding and hard work on the search. She allowed herself to completely relax for the first time in months. The nightmare was finally over. She had her crew back and they could go about trying to get to the wormhole everyone had forgotten about in the past five months. She spent the rest of the night in the holodeck visiting with Leonardo, her unofficial counselor. When she went to sleep, she had nightmares for the first time since the week after the trial ended. She was holding a bloody Methos in her arms again, but this time he was headless. She woke up shaking and decided to go over reports rather than go back to sleep. She would talk Duncan or Chakotay in the morning. Between the two men, she felt like she had someone to talk to. --- Tom woke up in the middle of the night on the floor in sickbay with a tongue in his ear and a very hard cock poking him in the hip. He briefly wondered why it was so cold and quiet in their camp. Then he felt the hard deck of the sickbay and remembered they had been rescued. He shook the owner of the tongue awake and reminded him where they were. "Sorry Tom, habit I guess. Is the Doctor activated?" "No, we're the only ones here. How'd we get on the floor? And where are your clothes? This is a public area Methos." "Don't you remember? You dragged me onto the floor a few hours ago. You didn't like the biobed. As for the clothes, how can you wear those pajamas, they must be made out of burlap. Oh, I feel you're not wearing them any more." He ran his hand down Tom's body until he found what he was looking for." I guess I'm not the only one who forgot where we were." He started kissing Tom and stroking his erection until Tom pulled away. "Methos, we can't, I really want to, but we can't. They waited for us and never stopped looking. I can't do this to them. We're back now. That changes everything. Think of Mac. I don't think we should tell them about anything that happened." "Tom they aren't as naive as you are. They already know. Do you think Mac and I have been totally monogamous for four hundred years? Don't look at me like that. We love each other more than you can imagine. You won't understand for a few hundred years, at least. Our relationship includes not smothering each other. They'll both understand what happened between us. We were the only two people on a planet for five months. We thought we'd be there forever." "Ever hear of the term revisionist history Methos? Don't you remember what we did on the shuttle?" "Are you joking, I still dream about it. When are we going to have a repeat performance?" Methos had not stopped fondling his soon to be ex-lover and was rewarded by a moan of pleasure. "Methos, please, you can obviously tell what I want, but I just said everything changes now that we're back." "You're right Tom, but not for the reasons you think you are. Fine, no sex without permission from our boyfriends, you ask Chakotay and I'll ask Duncan. We can invite them to watch." "I never know when you're joking or not Methos." "Tom, I never joke. I'm always serious on some level. You just have to try to figure out which level. Good night." Methos kissed Tom hard, then turned his back to him. Tom spooned up behind him knowing that's what the man really wanted. His body language had gotten easier for Tom to read over the months. If he didn't want to be touched, he would have moved away, not put his back to him and jutted into Tom's hip with his ass. Tom wrapped himself around the familiar figure for what he believed would be the last time. At least Methos respected his wishes. Tom fell asleep and dreamed of blue sky and open spaces. --- They were found curled around each other in the morning by Chakotay and Duncan. The two of them had spent the night continuing the discussion they had begun on the planet. Neither man slept. The objects of their almost five month search were just out of their reach and they were not happy about it. At least they got the chance to talk. Chakotay had been considering what Mac had told him on the planet. It made perfect sense, of course, but he wasn't happy about it. Chakotay was usually a rational man, but Tom's being missing for five months and Duncan knowing he was alive while he didn't, rankled him. He couldn't help it. "All those times we talked, didn't you ever feel guilty you were keeping information from me that would have changed my whole outlook, that would have given me hope? How could you have sat there and talked to me, listened to me drone on and on about how Tom might be dead, and not tell me? I thought I knew you, Duncan." "Chakotay, if you did know me like you think you do, you would know I had no choice. Don't you understand? It wasn't my place to tell you! If you would think about what I'm saying for a few minutes, instead of just letting you're emotions control you, you would understand." "I need some time Duncan, you are right. But right now, it doesn't make me feel any better. Withholding information is the same thing as lying, and I really don't like being lied to." "Can we drop this circular argument for awhile, Chakotay? We aren't getting anywhere. We need to discuss how we're going to help them adapt." "Adapt, what do they need to adapt to? They're home now. Tom will probably be demanding to be piloting again within the week." "Chakotay, they haven't seen another person in five months. They've relied on each other for everything, including their lives." "Do you think we should try to keep them apart?" "Until they've gotten used to being back, yes, I think we should. Nothing too obvious, but they need to accept the fact that the aren't the only two people in the world anymore. It's for their own good." When Chakotay and Duncan entered sickbay and saw the two men curled up like puppies, and totally naked, they thought they had come to the right decision the night before. Before Mac could warn him, Chakotay went to nudge Tom to wake him up. When Chakotay touched Tom he was rewarded with a swinging fist, and Tom jumping to his feet, still half asleep. "Chakotay, you're lucky he wasn't armed." Chakotay ignored Mac's statement of the obvious, "Tom, Methos, don't you think you should put some clothes on, anybody could walk in here." While the two men put their pajamas back on, Duncan pulled Chakotay aside to talk to him. "Chakotay, they've spent the past, who knows how long, fighting for their lives. Rule number one, don't touch him while he's asleep, he might not know it's you." "Duncan, you sound like you've been through this before." "You know I have Chakotay. All I can tell you is that he's going to need time. His life has changed since the last time you saw him." "Don't you think I realize that Duncan?" "I'm just reminding you. We've spent the last five months with one thing on our minds, finding them. Now we have to deal with the reality of their homecoming. From my experience, the reality never measures up to the fantasy." "Thanks for the advice, Mac, but you take care of Methos, and I'll take care of Tom." They made their way back to where the two men had gotten dressed and the four of them stood there looking at each other until Methos broke the silence. "Mac, can we go to our quarters? I'm hungry and tired. Bye Tom, I'll talk to you in a few hours." Methos hugged Tom and kissed him on the cheek and walked out of sickbay, followed by a surprised Duncan MacLeod. "Chak, I'm not walking to my quarters in these pajamas, could you authorize an intership beam out for me? Please?" "Will you come to my quarters instead? They're larger. I don't want to let you out of my sight for awhile Tom, I can't believe you're actually here and alive. You don't know what I went through when I thought I saw you killed. All those months looking for you and then to have you killed in front of my eyes when I found you." Chakotay had pulled Tom into his arms and was hugging him so hard he couldn't breathe. "Chak, I'm sorry, I remember dying now, and the look on your face. I don't think I'll ever forget that look. I tried to explain, but I couldn't. I'm so sorry for what you went through. Of course I'll stay with you. Could we stop by my quarters before we go to yours? I want to get some things." They beamed first to Tom's quarters and then to Chakotay's. Chak was a little worried when Tom refused to walk through the corridors, claiming he was too tired. The Commander had talked to the Doctor before they left sickbay and he knew Tom was fine. He was in better health than he had ever been, so Chakotay knew his claim of physical tiredness was just a cover. He had to remind himself not to push Tom, or to try and protect him. He still hadn't really address his feelings towards Tom's new condition. He could do that later, the important thing right now was that he was home. As soon as they entered their quarters, Chakotay sent Tom to bed. He replicated his favorite foods and brought him a tray in bed. "Chakotay, this isn't necessary. Could you turn up the environmental controls? It's cold in here." "If you would put some clothes on, you wouldn't be cold." Tom changed the subject, "How many rations did you use for this lunch Chak? I hope you didn't set yourself back too much. A sandwich and soup would have been enough." "Tom, the Captain has given you and Methos unlimited rations indefinitely. Take advantage of it while you can, OK? You'll be complaining about the mess hall soon enough." Chakotay sat on the bed next to Tom and stared at him, until the young man became obviously uncomfortable. "What?" "I just can't believe you're here. Can I hold you?" "Do you really need to ask?" "I feel like we need to get to know each other again." "Why, cause I'm a freak now?" "You are not a freak, you're the same person you were before you found out you were like them." "Like them Chakotay? Can't you even say it? I'm immortal. I'm not going to get any older, ever. I won't die unless someone takes my head, and I'll never get sick. How can you say I'm the same? Do you really believe that or are you just trying to make me feel better?" Tom's tone had gotten increasingly bitter as he spoke to his lover. "How long before everyone knows? A couple of weeks, a few months, ten years? What? Am I supposed to pretend to be my own son when we get back to the Alpha Quadrant? Dammit Chakotay, I thought I'd dealt with all of this crap already. When I was on that planet, it was easy to think everything would be OK if only Voyager found us, well it's not. How could I have been so stupid!" Tom slammed his fist into the bulkhead as he said the word stupid and then hit it again for extra emphasis. "Tom, honey, I'm here for you. We'll get through this together. Stop hitting the wall, you're going to hurt yourself." Chakotay realized immediately he had said the wrong thing, again. "Yeah right, hurt myself? Watch this." Tom had picked the knife up off the tray and cut his bare arm before Chakotay could stop him. The healing was slow, but began immediately. "See, I'm a total fucking freak. Turn up the damn environmental controls, it's freezing in here. And no, I'm not putting any clothes on. Everything I own is too restricting. Actually, can I wear a pair of your shorts and a T-shirt?" Chakotay wordlessly went and got Tom some clothes. He knew he was out of his league on this one. He didn't know what to say to his distraught lover, so he just pulled him into his arms. "Tom, we will get through this. Let me help you. Please don't ever hurt yourself again, even if you don't stay hurt." "I'm sorry Chak. Damn, what is that the fourth time I've apologized to you in five minutes? I really did think I had dealt with all this shit already." "At least we're getting it out into the open immediately. I don't think I could handle it if you closed yourself off to me Tom." "Chakotay, I'll try not to, but please try and understand how hard this for me." Tom pulled himself out of Chakotay's embrace and started pacing. He continued to pace in the small living area until Chakotay couldn't take it anymore and grabbed his arm. "Tom, what's wrong?" "I feel caged in here Chakotay, can we go to the holodeck?" "Yes, but we have to walk there." "Nevermind." Tom went over to the console and called Methos. When he didn't get an answer, he instinctively knew why. Tom walked over to where Chakotay was sitting on the couch and flopped down next to him, practically on his lap. "Chak, we haven't properly celebrated my homecoming yet," He began to unbutton Chakotay's pants, but the Commander stopped him. "Tom, we need to talk." "What do you think we've been doing? I don't want to talk anymore, I've missed you. Do you know how often I dreamed of being with you again?" Chakotay took Tom's hands off his genitals and made him look him in the eye. "Tom, did you have an affair with Methos?" "What do you think Chakotay?" Tom was getting angry again, couldn't Chak just accept he was back and leave everything else alone? "I think you did. Am I wrong?" "No, Chakotay, you aren't wrong. We love each other, is that what you want to hear?" Tom had started pacing again. He was feeling trapped, and wasn't used to confined spaces. "Then why are you here with me?" "Chakotay, I love you too, just different than the way I love Methos. I love him as a friend, a good friend, but you are the one I want to spend the rest of my life with. Do you realize that more than half of our conversations while we were on the planet were about you and Duncan?" "Don't you mean you want to spend the rest of my life with me?" "Don't start with that again Chakotay, I'm having a hard enough time as it is. Welcome home Tom, let's grill each other until we can't stand to look at each other. I feel like you're cornering me Chakotay. All I want to do is hold you and make love with you. The rest can wait." "No. Tom, the rest can't wait. You can't run from any of this. Don't you think I want to hold you too? Don't you think that you were on my mind the entire time you were gone? Don't you think I spent the past five months wondering if you were dead or alive? Then I find out MacLeod knew the whole time you were like them." Chakotay was losing control, something he had been doing too much of lately. He didn't want to fight with Tom. He really didn't. Trying to work everything out in one sitting wasn't such a good idea. "I can't say it enough Chakotay, I'm sorry. I am sorry we crashed, I am sorry you were worried, I am sorry you didn't know I was OK. I am sorry for being a freak. I am not sorry I helped Methos leave Voyager. Jamison was going to execute him. I had no choice. I am not sorry I had an affair with Methos. You heard me right, I am not sorry about that. Maybe you should try and think about what the two of us were going through during the past five months. If you're interested, I'll tell you the story later. Right now, I'm exhausted. I can't handle any more arguing Chakotay. I am going to take a nap. If you want me to take it in my own quarters, I will. I would prefer if you would take a nap with me." "Tom, I don't want to use sex to solve our problems." "Dammit Chakotay!!! I don't want to fuck you. I want to hold you and be held by you. Do you understand?" Tom pulled off the small amount of clothing he was wearing and got in bed. --- Chakotay stripped down to his underwear and climbed into bed with him. He wrapped his arms around the shivering man and wished everything could just go back to normal. Chakotay wasn't really tired, but felt he had to lay with Tom to reassure him. Damn Methos! He had taken advantage of Tom's vulnerability and uncertainty. Chakotay fell asleep when he could no longer run scenarios of just how the two of them got together through his mind. He dreamt of Tom and Methos on the planet, laughing and embracing each other, but then his dreams took a surreal twist. He saw himself as a very old man, confined to a wheelchair, unable to take care of himself. They were still on Voyager, and the Captain was an old woman. B'Elanna and Harry were married, and in late middle age. Tom, Methos, and Mac remained the same. Chakotay found himself looking up at Tom from his chair as Tom settled him in and wrapped a blanket around his legs. They were in Tom's beach program and the three still young men were playing volleyball on the beach while he could only sit in his wheelchair and watch them. In his dream, his shaking hands dropped the glass of juice Tom had given him before he went to play with his friends. The sound of breaking glass woke him up, and he expected himself to still be an old and frail man. He looked at his lover laying next to him and realized he had had a subconscious breakthrough. No matter how much he denied it to himself and to Tom, his real problem with the young man was his newfound immortality. The affair with Methos was just an easier place to direct his feelings. Chakotay got out of bed and collected his Akoonah and left for the holodeck. He needed to take a journey to examine his feelings more closely. He kissed the still sleeping man and brushed a stray curl off of his face. Chakotay didn't know how long he would be gone, and it never occurred to him to leave a message for Tom. --- As soon as they were in their quarters, Duncan drew Methos into an embrace, "Methos, you don't know how much I've missed you. I was so afraid the Captain was going to call of the search, I almost told her Tom was immortal. Instead, Chakotay and I worked on the Darius so we could go looking for you ourselves if she called off the search." Methos pulled away to look at Mac, understanding exactly what his lover meant, "You thought if she knew he was alive she'd keep looking?" Mac didn't exactly want to have that conversation right now. "That's part of it Methos, If she knew both of you were alive and possibly stranded forever, she wouldn't give up until we had you back." Methos did want to have at least part of the conversation right then. He needed to know what had happened all those months ago. "What happened at my trial Duncan?" "They did not find you guilty. I don't really want to talk about it now, Methos." Good enough for now. They can get into the rest later if they absolutely had to. "Why Mac? I'm assuming Q told them everything." Methos had pulled himself away and walked to the next room to change his clothes. He took of his sickbay pajamas and put on a pair of his own boxers. He went into the bedroom without saying another word to Mac and laid down on the bed, ostensibly to take a nap. He didn't feel like discussing his trial right now either. A lot had happened since then, and he only hoped the tribunal had already put the experience behind them. MacLeod joined him in the bedroom and sat down on the bed next to him, petting his bare back. "I don't know Methos, let's just leave it be." "Right. I can do that. I've missed you, you know." Methos dropped the subject with MacLeod, he would ask Tom to find out what he could. "I missed you too old man." Duncan was wondering why Methos had given up so easily on that particular line of questioning and had to remind himself to be more careful in the future. His happiness at finding Methos distracted him just enough to almost be dragged into an interrogation he couldn't avoid with the old man. When Methos was determined to gain information, he would do it any way he could. He would need to warn all three of the members of the tribunal again, do not tell Methos anything. Methos rolled over onto his back and looked up at the man above him. He still wasn't sure what had happened at his trial, but it mustn't have been too bad, or they wouldn't have kept looking for him. He pulled himself into a sitting position and draped his arms over Duncan's shoulders. "I love reunions. Why do you think I keep getting lost?" "Funny, funny, old man. I am so glad to have you back. Lay down on the bed and take your clothes off, I'll be right back." Methos did as he was told. It was cold in the sleeping area and any arousal he had felt after being told what to do quickly deserted him. Mac returned with a bottle and a towel. He wouldn't let Methos see the bottle, not that it mattered, replicated bottles did not contain labels, and placed the towel under Methos' hips. He sat down on the bed next to his lover and began to trace light circles around his left nipple. He bent down to kiss the hollow between Methos' collarbone and neck, resting his hand on the perfect juncture of hip and torso. The skin all over Methos' body began to prickle and his earlier arousal returned. Duncan reached down and kissed him on the lips, then sat up, leaving Methos wanting more. He pulled the oil out from behind him and held the bottle just above Methos' semi-aroused cock. Methos managed to breath out in a voice that usually sent Mac over the edge, "Duncan, I hope whatever's in that bottle is warm." "Aye, it is, but not too warm." He drizzled some of the vanilla scented oil onto Methos' groin and was rewarded with a groan and another jump from the ever hardening cock. Mac held the bottle just at the top of Methos' pubic hair, at the juncture of where his cock met his body, tipped it, but didn't let any oil spill over the edge. The expectation of the of the oil pouring over him made his erection rise a little more, wanting the warmth . His hands squeezed into boyish fists at his sides and his face scrunched up with the anticipation. Duncan laughed as he leaned over him, tipping the bottle slightly further, letting a few small drops drizzle onto him. He whispered into Methos ear as he finally let more of the oil drip, "I want you in me Methos," and he poured more of the oil onto Methos' now painfully hard cock. Methos didn't need to be told twice, he sat up and pulled Mac in for a kiss, pulling the bottle out of his hands. Both men were sitting cross-legged facing each other, arms wrapped around each other's bodies until Methos pulled them onto their sides. They were still kissing each other when Methos cupped Duncan's sex in his palm. He massaged the heavy balls, and Mac arched into the touch. Somehow Methos maneuvered Mac so he was facing away, allowing them to spoon together. Methos used the oil still on his body to lubricate Mac, threw a leg over his hips and began his slow entry. He pushed through the first of his lover's body's resistance, pausing to let the other man accept the invader. He knew how Mac liked to be taken. He liked to feel each sensation individually, from the first hint of entry to the final spasming of his body. Methos obliged his lover's preferences and continued his slow, slow entry. He felt the inner ring of muscle in Mac's body give way and buried his full length into his lover. He used their entwined legs for leverage and began his rhythmic ministrations, then reached around to Mac's hard cock and used the oil still on his hands to slicken the shaft. He matched the rhythm of his hand with the one he had set with his hips and took them both to a higher plane. He couldn't help nuzzling Mac's neck, whispering and panting into his ear. He felt himself going over the edge and tried to hold on and wait for his lover. He wasn't successful, but as his hips and hand bucked uncontrollably in the throes of his orgasm, Duncan joined him. He bit into the sensitive skin of Mac's neck as his body was spasming, causing Mac to buck with him. They lost all semblance of rhythm as their pleasure took over. Methos had slipped out of the man he had impaled, and erupted all over both of them, mixing his semen with Mac's. Methos hugged his partner to him as tight as he could and they lay there, heartbeats and breathing in synch. After they both caught their breath, Methos rolled over so he was on top of Mac and began to rain light kisses onto his face and neck. He started tracing Mac's ear with his tongue and running his hands up and down his sides, whispering to him at the same time, "I really have missed you, do want to fuck me?" Methos always got a thrill out of the reactions he could get from Mac with just a few words. When he mixed obscene language with a seductive tone Mac never failed to respond. Methos began to increase the pressure of his strokes on Mac's body, he was trying to raise the intensity of their coupling. As was normal for them, the first union was slow and romantic, now came the raw powerful joining that usually followed. They had a pattern, but it was a nice pattern. The final round usually culminated in mutual oral sex, but Methos was still anticipating round two. He bent down to take Mac's fully erect shaft into his mouth, tasting the vanilla oil when he did so. He didn't torment his partner for too long, and got onto his hands and knees wagging his rear enticingly at his partner. He heard a growl from his Highlander and braced himself for the coming onslaught. As Methos was anticipating the invasion of his body, Mac pulled him off of his knees and into his lap. He began to nip and lick at Methos' shoulders and back, tasting the soft pale skin of his lover. He maneuvered Methos so he was face to face with him and his legs were wrapped around Mac's waist. Mac began kissing his lips, softly stroking his back, gently lowering Methos to the bed and kneeling above him. He obviously wanted another slow romantic coupling. He took his time, kneading Methos muscles, lighting him on fire with every touch. Methos tried to arch into the gentle hands, needing, wanting, demanding more pressure, but he didn't get it. Mac's sensuous touches seemed to go on forever and finally he penetrated Methos with a finger. The oldest man squirmed under the invasion, trying to get more stimulation, but Mac took his time. He stretched Methos with just a finger, then a second, still moving slowly and gently. Methos again tried to get onto his knees, but Mac held him in place. Mac pulled Methos' legs up to and along his own chest, draping the perfect calves over his shoulders. He steadied himself with a hand on Methos hip and the other on his own organ. He began a slow, slow entry and Methos pushed against him. But Mac had put his other hand on Methos' hip, and held him back. He was barely moving, just gently pushing in and out, never burying himself completely, but never pulling completely out off the tight channel. Methos couldn't help himself, he had to meet the thrusts of the man invading him, but Mac wouldn't let him. He began to groan in frustration and thought more talk was in order. "Duncan, pummel me so hard I forget my name, the only existence I want is you fucking me, harder, harder, until we both forget what century we're in. Mac, fuck me." It wasn't working, Duncan was still acting like Methos was a virgin and Duncan needed to be gentle with him. He decided to play the game and just go with him. He clenched his muscles in his ass in time with Mac's smooth strokes and he finally got the reaction he wanted. Mac was still holding back, but he began to quicken his pace. His hands were still on Methos' hips, so Methos began to stroke his own cock. Duncan lost a little more control when the man he was making love to began to masturbate himself. Mac had a clear view when Methos reached his climax and lost it himself when he saw the milky fluid erupt from his lovers body. He came with a shout and collapsed on top of his partner. He was glad he had brought the towel to bed with them earlier, he needed it. Methos tried to clean them off, but Mac grabbed the towel from his hand and took care of the both of them. When he was done, he rolled onto his back and pulled Methos into his arms. He was always sleepy right after sex, so wasn't surprised when he felt himself drift off. Methos was laying in Mac's arms, listening to his deep even breathing, but he was thinking about Tom. He didn't think Chakotay and Tom's reunion had gone as smoothly as his and Mac's. After all, they hadn't had the practice that he and Mac had. But, he was worried about how Duncan seemed to hold back during sex, he didn't know what to make of it. Mac woke from his catnap and interrupted Methos' thoughts, speaking in a sleep muffled voice, “You said you missed me, what did you miss about me?" "Feeling a little insecure Duncan?" "You and Tom were each other's only company for almost five months. I know you had an affair with him, I was just wondering if you could walk away from him so easily." "You Are Duncan MacLeod Of The Clan MacLeod, what other reason do I need to miss you? As for Tom, you know me well enough to know the answer to that Mac. If you don't want it to continue, it won't. End of story. You and I have been together for almost a tenth of my lifetime and for half of yours. I don't understand why you would be insecure at all. Mac, I'm really exhausted, can we talk about this later? It was pretty disorienting to wake up on Voyager yesterday. I need to readjust." "Of course Methos." Mac kissed him again and decided to take a nap as well. He had set the computer into silent mode so they wouldn't be interrupted, and had meant to turn it back on before Methos realized what he had done, but he fell asleep. Methos laid there for awhile after Duncan had fallen asleep, and just stared at his lover. It really was good to be back with MacLeod, but he was worried about Tom. Tom not only had to adjust to being back on a Starship, but also to adjust to his newfound immortality. He got up to com him and saw the screen beeping, indicating waiting messages. Duncan had turned off the computer signal, and Methos didn't know if he was pissed because Duncan was being protective, or grateful that Duncan didn't want their reunion interrupted. He read the waiting message, and it was from Tom. He commed him, typing in his message, so he wouldn't disturb his sleeping partner. Tom didn't look very happy when he answered the hail. It was disorienting for Methos to see Tom's lips move and then words come across the bottom of the screen. They decided to meet in the Airponics bay to talk. Methos left his com badge behind and made his way there. Walking through the corridors of Voyager was difficult for Methos, he felt as if he had met up with half the crew in his short walk. Every time one of them welcomed him back he inwardly cringed. Didn't they realize it was his fault they had added another five months onto their journey.? They didn't have the luxury of time that he did, didn't they know that? Tom was already in the Airponics bay when Methos arrived. He was wearing a pair of shorts at least two sizes too big for him and nothing else. Methos wasn't having the same problem re-adapting to clothing. He wore a pair of Mac's sweats and his own favorite oversized wool sweater. "Did you walk through the halls like that Paris?" "Methos, I'm not in the mood for jokes right now." "I take it the reunion didn't go well?" "Chakotay's mad at me. He had this fantasy that nothing would change when they found us. They would just pick us up and we'd be on our way. It's not going to work like that. He can't get past the fact you and I had an affair. I tried to explain it to him, but he wouldn't listen. Methos, I really thought he'd understand. I don't regret what we've had, but I don't know if it was worth maybe losing Chakotay." Tom didn't wan to hurt Methos' feelings, but Methos was the only one he felt comfortable talking to about Chakotay. "Tom, he's had some pretty big surprises in the past day. For one, he saw you killed without knowing you'd revive. Then he finds out your an immortal. Don't you think he's just focusing on your infidelity because it's the easiest part of this whole mess to deal with?" "I know you're right, but what do I do about it?" "Tom, I've got my own problems right now. Duncan was acting odd while we made up. I need to find out exactly what happened at my trial. Could you see if Chakotay would tell you? I know Mac will never give me the whole story. I don't think he'll ever learn he doesn't need to protect me, but still, I humor him." "Sorry Methos, I'm being my normal selfish, 'my problems are the only ones in the world', self. So you and Duncan made up? He's OK with me? You know, not ready to take my head?" "I already told you it would be fine Tom. When we separate, we don't remain celibate. He's been having an affair with his friend Amanda for the past 700 years. She doesn't live in the next room over from us on a tiny Starship though." "Will that make a difference?" "It shouldn't, just don't expect Mac to be totally relaxed around you until he gets it through his thick skull that we'll each be staying with the correct partner. I hate jealousy, it is one of the most irrational, messiest emotions in the Universe." "Come on Methos, you can't tell me you've never been jealous." "I have been, but it's not a way of life for me. I have to get back, Mac doesn't know I've left. I'm the one who's supposed to be recovering, and I end up helping him deal with his feelings. I'll talk to you later." Methos pulled Tom in for a kiss and headed back to his quarters. --- Chakotay returned from his visit to the spirit world feeling much better for having spoken to his father. He reconciled himself with Tom's infidelity, and understood his anger was misplaced. It wasn't even anger, it was fear and insecurity. He would do everything he could to make it up to Tom. He arrived in his quarters, expecting Tom to be waiting for him, but the rooms were empty. The computer reported Tom was in Chakotay's quarters, but he wasn't there. He found Tom's combadge on the desk next to the communication console, so he checked the logs to see who he had talked to. Technically, it wasn't an invasion of Tom's privacy because it was the Commander's console. In reality, Chakotay knew he was snooping. When he saw who Tom had been talking to before he left, his newfound calm left him in a hurry. He did a location search for Methos and the computer reported that Methos was in his own quarters. Chakotay commed Duncan, trying to think of an excuse for the call and Duncan answered the hail still half asleep. Chakotay told him Tom had left and left his combadge behind, and asked if Methos was there. He wasn't. Tom returned to Chakotay's quarters two hours after Chakotay had arrived. In the intervening two hours, Chakotay had worked himself into a jealous rage. He held his emotions in check as he greeted Tom. "Where were you?" --- Tom nearly jumped out of his skin when Chakotay spoke from the darkness. He recovered and answered the question, "I went to my quarters to get some things and take care of my plants. I brought some of them back. Is that OK with you?" Tom had also come to a decision. He would be as nice to Chakotay as he possibly could, he wouldn't argue, and he wouldn't give Chakotay any reason to get angry with him. He would do his best to be exactly the Tom Paris that had disappeared from Voyager almost five months before. He really believed he could do it. "Why did you leave your combadge here Tom?" Oh, Oh, it was the 'why is your report late' tone that Tom hated so much. "I'm not used to wearing one. Maybe I should string it around my neck until I remember. It would make a nice pendant wouldn't it?" Chakotay wasn't buying what Tom was selling. "Was Methos with you?" Tom had to force himself to tell the truth. His first instinct was to lie, but he really had changed and grown in the past half year. "He wasn't with me in my quarters, no. We did meet up in the Airponics bay, but only because it's the only place on this ship that doesn't make us claustrophobic. Is that all?" "No, the Captain wants to have a welcome back party for you and Methos tomorrow night. Are you OK with that?" Shit. He couldn't face that many people so soon. He just couldn't. "No, Chakotay it's not all right. I don't think I could handle it." "Tom, the whole crew worked round the clock to find you. I think you should try to go through with it. They deserve it." Chakotay was trying to be patient with Tom. He understood it was too soon, but the crew did need closure. "I'll ask her to postpone it for a few days OK?" "Thanks Chak. It should be all right in a few days. Are you hungry? Do you want dinner?" "Let's go to the messhall." "No way. I want to stay here. . I have an appointment with the doctor for my psych exam tomorrow, I'd rather not get stressed before I take it. Understand?" "Fine. We'll stay in. What do you want to do for the rest of the night?" "Anything you want to, as long as it's here. Are you still mad at me? Can we have our reunion now?" "I meditated for most of the day and it helped. What kind of reunion do you want to have?" "This kind." Tom was across the room and had Chakotay in an embrace before he knew what hit him. "I've missed you so much Chak. I love the feel of your arms around me. I love your body, you have the best butt in the Delta Quadrant you know." "I don't know, Tom, you're not so bad yourself in that department." Chakotay ran his fingers through Tom's hair, enjoying the silky feeling of the curls in his fingers, "Are you going to leave your hair long? I like it." "Depends on the Captain. If she lets me, I'll keep it long for you." Tom had moved his hands to the aforementioned perfect ass and had pulled Chakotay in closer to kiss him. He loved being held by the man who was so much broader than him, and he loved the strong lips meeting his own. Chakotay was just so solid, so real. He was sure of himself, and always did what he thought was right. To him there was never a question what was right, if it was honorable, it was right. Tom wished he could be more like the big man. He put his ethical questions out of his head and just went with the moment. He could think about their problems later. For now, he wasn't planning on thinking. Chakotay lowered the illumination to one quarter and pulled Tom into the bedroom, not letting go of him. The Commander had dreamt about this moment for five months. He gently pushed Tom onto the bed and took off the shorts he was still wearing. Tom was slender, even more slender than the last time Chak had seen him, his muscles each clearly defined, and his skin looked so soft Chakotay had to caress every inch of it. Tom lay back with his hands behind his head and let Chakotay do what he would. He was sprawled on the bed, with his cock lolling on his thigh, breathing heavily, anticipating the next touch. "Turn over Tom, I want to touch all of you." Tom rolled over onto his stomach and turned his head to the side, sighing in anticipation. Chakotay began sweeping strokes down Tom's body. Chak's cock began to rise inside his loose pants as he caressed the man laid out in front of him. He grew mesmerized, his hands finally on the body he had dreamed of every night for months. Chakotay was making love with his hands, and Tom began moving his body subtly into them. He let out an occasional sound, and his breath began to quicken again. He was unusually quiet and accepted the touches. Chakotay was exploring every inch of him, the light sheen of sweat on his body making Tom gleam in the low light. Every muscle was traced and kneaded, every curve of his body voluptuously stroked. Each time Chakotay stroked up Tom's thighs and over the muscles of his ass, he brought his hands closer together, coming closer to the cleft between the cheeks. Tom began to squirm in an encouraging way each time the hands neared, raising his ass for more pressure. Chak responded by stroking harder, pulling the cheeks apart each time. Tom let out a real moan, no longer able to hold it in and began to thrust his cock against the bed beneath him. Chakotay stopped him with the pressure of a hand. "Turn over Tom," he said in a low sexual voice that almost made Tom come right there. Tom's cock was hugely hard and jutted up from the flat plane of his body. Chakotay barely managed the self-control not to reach for it, but he teased Tom instead. He stroked up and down the blond man's body, missing his cock each time, but attentive to nipples and belly, until Tom started to buck with desire. A beaded strand of pre-cum gleamed in his downy belly hair like a spider's dewed web, and Chakotay had to keep himself from lapping it up. During the next near brush of his cock, Tom lifted his hand to touch himself in frustration, but he reached for Chak's cock instead. When Tom touched him through his pants, Chakotay had to get out of his clothing. He quickly stepped out of his pants and briefs and turned again to Tom's body. Tom reached out for him again, and Chak's cock leaped and strained at the first touch. Tom began to stroke the hard steel in his hand. He whispered to Chakotay, "Your mouth... I want it... please..." Chakotay moved closer, all semblance of control gone with Tom's request, and stroked Tom's cock a few times, getting the full feel of the once familiar organ in his hands. Then he bent over to run his tongue up and down the length----- Tom started gasping immediately----and then sucked the head into his mouth. Tom thought he was going to come right away, but Chak knew what he was doing. Chakotay remained still until Tom's threatening orgasm ebbed away, and then began sucking his cock in earnest, pulling it all the way down his throat, drawing back to tongue just the tip, keeping a rhythm just uneven enough that Tom could keep from coming. Chak held his lover's balls in one hand and squeezed them, whenever he squeezed, Tom gasped. Tom had begun to murmur "....I want it, I want it....", rhythmically entranced. He was twisting his torso, trying to reach Chakotay's cock with his mouth, trying to suck him in return. Chakotay knelt over Tom on the bed, releasing his cock from his mouth, and flipped him back onto his stomach. He traced the curve of Tom's buttocks until he reached the cleft between the mounds. He invaded the willing body with just a finger and Tom squirmed in protest. He wanted it all, and knew he would get it. Chakotay reached for the lube he had kept within reach of the bed since their first night, and squeezed some onto his fingers. He once again thrust his fingers into the submissive form beneath him, this time using two instead of one. He thrust in and out, grabbing Tom's balls to again keep him from coming. Tom was writhing in agony, and Chakotay couldn't help himself any longer. He liberally slathered his incredibly hard cock with the oil and leaned over Tom. He began his slow entry, but then grabbed Tom's hands and held them over their heads, leaning his whole body weight onto the man beneath him. He buried himself in the willing flesh and started a rhythm Tom matched by raising his hips as Chakotay lowered his. Tom couldn't hold back, the earlier stimulation was just too much. As his body convulsed in orgasm, it clenched Chakotay tighter and tighter. Chak followed him into ecstasy as his cock was squeezed inside his lover's body. He made no move to roll off the still form, as sobs began to wrack Tom's body. "Love you Chak, love you. Don't leave me, never, please, need you." Chakotay wrapped his arms around and under Tom, pulling him as close as he could, dreading the time when their bodies would demand to be separated. Tom basked in the feel of the substantial body pinning him to the bed. How could he ever think there was something wrong? He belonged to Chakotay, heart, body, and soul, didn't the big man know that? Tom fell asleep with Chakotay's softening flesh still inside of him. The emotional and physical toll of the past two weeks had been trying to catch him, and the expression of he and Chakotay's love finally allowed him to give in to the need for complete surrender to his body's demands. Chakotay felt the even breathing of the soundly sleeping man and gently extricated himself. He pulled his lost lover into his arms, kissed him on the temple, and lowered the lights the rest of the way. He too fell asleep believing they would work everything out. Tom and Methos met in sickbay the following morning for their psych exams. Both men were nervous about the tests, but neither of them uttered a complaint. The Captain came in to check on them and to talk to them when they were done. She told them they could have as much time as they needed to get back up to speed, but she wanted them to practice flight sims together. She thought if they did something they enjoyed, they would re-enter Voyager's routine much more easily. Methos noticed the Captain would not meet his eye. First Duncan acting like he would break in half if he wasn't gentle with him, then the Captain avoiding his eyes. Something did happen during the trial, he was sure of it. It wouldn't be any use asking the Vulcan, he wouldn't tell him anything, and trying to get some kind of reaction out of him would be an exercise in futility. He couldn't talk to Chakotay, the Captain wasn't the only one who wouldn't look him in the eye. At least with Chakotay he knew why. After the Captain left, Methos had to ask Tom if he had found anything out. "Sorry Methos, fell asleep really early last night. We were too busy to do much talking after I got back from my quarters." "Good, is everything OK?" "I don't know, I hope so. I'm trying to be good. No flipping out, no running around naked, no mentioning your name every five minutes. No painting myself." Tom was smiling as he related the last rule he had given himself. "Chakotay gets upset whenever I even say your name. He said I hero worship you." The doctor came in and interrupted them in the middle of their conversation, "You two may leave now. Methos, if you would like to study for your eventual return to duty, I made an advanced lesson plan for you while you were gone. It's in the main computer under your name." "Thanks Doc, but I have no idea when that will be." "Did I hear correctly form the ship's network? Is your party postponed until tomorrow? We haven't had a party for a long time. I'll bring my whole family, what would you like for your gifts?" Tom was becoming more and more agitated as the doctor droned on about the party. He hadn't been in a room with more than three people in it since he came back. If he didn't know himself better, he would have thought he had become agoraphobic. "No need to get me anything Doc, I have everything I need. Come on Methos let's go." "Bye Doc." Methos followed Tom who was practically running out of sickbay. "Tom, wait, where are you going?" "To the Airponics bay. I'm stopping in my quarters and leaving my combadge there just in case Chakotay decides to spy on me again. If you come with me, leave your combadge somewhere else." Tom was practically panicking over the thought of the party. He didn't want to face the whole crew. From what the Doctor had said, everyone not on duty would be there. He couldn't look at his friends who knew about his condition, and he couldn't face the ones who didn't. How the hell was he going to tell B'Elanna? He had to admit he wasn't handling it very well even though he had known for months now, but on the planet it was different. Most of the crew didn't even know Immortals existed, nevermind that he was one of them. On Voyager, everyone would notice he wasn't aging. He had spent almost five years getting everyone to like him and to accept him, but now, if anyone found out, he was going to have to do it all over again. Methos decided to follow Tom, leaving his combadge in a Jefferies tube. If anyone looked for him, they would know it was a ruse, but he did what Tom asked. He knew Tom was having a difficult time adjusting and wanted to help. Duncan would just have to deal with his jealousy. They spent the rest of the morning among the plants, trees, and flowers of the Airponics bay. It wasn't as confining and artificial as the rest of the ship and Tom seemed to be able to relax there. Tom made sure to be back in Chakotay's quarters before the Commander finished his half duty shift. They had made progress the night before and he didn't want to move backward. He needed to make sure Chak trusted him. He wasn't doing anything wrong, just spending time with Methos, but Chakotay wouldn't understand. Methos was right something happened during the trial. He would find out for his friend. Chakotay entered his quarters only moments after Tom. He looked relieved to see the young man there and embraced him before going into the sleeping area to change out of his uniform. When he came back into the living are, Tom had his lunch waiting for him. "Chak, I've been wondering about something." "Yes?" "I know Methos was found innocent, or Q would have killed him, but why didn't he tell you where we were?" Tom's question caught Chakotay totally by surprise, "It's a long story Tom, I'm not allowed to talk about it." "But Methos was found innocent right? Or was his punishment being abandoned on the planet and I just got caught in the middle?" "Tom, if Methos were found guilty his punishment would not have been to be abandoned on a planet." "So he's innocent." "Innocent is not a word I would ever use to describe Methos. What did you do today Tom?" "Not much, I spent most of the morning in my quarters." "I went to your quarters and you weren't there Tom, you're combadge was there, but you weren't" "Are you accusing me of lying?" "Were you with Methos again?" "Chakotay, you know I was, why are you even asking me? Are you testing me? Do want to see if I'll lie to you? Methos....." "I am sick of hearing his name from you Tom, every third word out of your mouth is about him." Chakotay found himself becoming irrationally jealous again and his temper was taking over his mouth. "Do you really want to know what happened at the trial Tom? We declared a mistrial. A technicality. Q took us on a history trip through Methos' life. We were there!! He did everything Q accused him of, what do you think of your hero being a mass murderer Tom?" "Shut up Chakotay. I don't want to hear another word from you." Tom walked out of Chakotay's quarters without looking back. He knew what Chakotay said was the truth, Methos had already told him some of the stories about his life. He didn't want to tell Chakotay that he understood how Methos could have done what he did. Methos hadn't told him anything about what he had been through, just what he had done, but Tom understood anyway. He went to his own quarters and used his unlimited replicator rations to drink as much as humanly, no immortally, possible. It wasn't working, every time he got a good buzz going, he sobered up. He switched to the highest percentage alcohol drink he could find and worked on drinking himself into oblivion. --- When Tom woke up in the morning, he realized Chakotay had not tried to contact him the night before. He had expected him to, but there weren't any messages from him. Tom didn't have a hangover and it was odd because he had drunk more than he ever had in his life. Another benefit of immortality he supposed. He was happy to be in his own quarters, at least he could raise the temperature and humidity to match the planet he had called home for five months, and he could walk around naked. He decided to spend the day in his quarters, not really ready to face anyone. He turned off his comm link and set his door to the highest security level he could. He sat down to his favorite twentieth century vid, a movie called Mars Attacks and lost himself in the vid. He could barricade himself in for weeks if he wanted to. He had everything he needed right in his quarters, everything but what he wanted most, open sky and open space. He had grown up on Starships and in cities, and the brief taste of a simpler way of life affected him greatly. Until the natives had started their attacks, he had been quite happy in his temporary home. How could he face Chakotay again? He would have to explain that he understood the man Methos had been so many millennia ago. Chakotay was the only person Tom had ever known who didn't have a dark side. OK maybe Harry doesn't either, he told himself. He didn't know how to make Chak understand how Methos could have given in to his dark side if Chakotay didn't have one. His vid started and he put it all out of his mind. Denial has always worked for him and he wasn't about to stop now. When his mind was ready, he would confront his problems, until then, everything was on hold. Methos came to visit him sometime in the middle of his fourth vid of the day. He didn't really want to talk to him, but he let him in anyway. "What?" "What? That's all you're going to say to me? What happened after I left you yesterday?" "None of your business Methos. I just want to be left alone for a few days. Do you mind?" "Yes, actually, I do mind. Did your asking Chakotay about the trial cause a fight between the two of you?" "Methos, if you want to know about your trial, ask Tuvok. You, as the accused, have a right to see the official transcripts from your trial any time you want to. See, I learned something when I was processed through the penal system. I suggest you ask Tuvok, he has no choice but to tell you. Now please go away, you're interrupting my vid." Tom didn't sound annoyed, just weary. Methos decided to stay and watch the vid with him, "Tom this is a great movie, I went to the premier." Methos picked up the vids Tom had been watching and couldn't help laughing, "At least you're consistent Tom. Mars Attacks, Starship Troopers, Aliens, and now Independence Day. Do you have an obsession with aliens?" Methos plopped himself onto the couch next to Tom and settled in to watch the movie. He really did like it. He had dragged Duncan and Joe to the premier, Methos and Joe had loved the movie, but Duncan thought it was trite. Methos got up to replicate them some beer and popcorn without saying a word. He commed Tuvok to set an appointment for later in the day and settled back down with Tom to watch the vids. The young immortal showed no sign of caring if he was there or not, so he just made himself comfortable and watched the movie. But, in his hurry to check on Tom he had forgotten to take off his combadge . --- Chakotay had regretted what he said to Tom, but decided to give him some time to himself before he tried to apologize. He knew Tom was having a hard time re- adjusting, he had only been home for two days before Chakotay was expecting him to be back to normal. He would just have to grovel and hope Tom forgave him. Tom was a pretty forgiving person, so Chakotay was sure he would be forgiven for his outburst. Chakotay changed his mind after he did a location check and found that Methos and Tom had spent the whole morning and half of the afternoon in Tom's quarters alone together. He wasn't sure if he could forgive Tom. He came to a decision, if Tom chose Methos over him, he wouldn't make a fool of himself. --- Methos had his meeting with Tuvok and demanded to see the transcripts from his trial. Tuvok had to explain the reason there were no transcripts, Methos paling considerably with the explanation. He informed Methos he would write a report and give it to him in the morning. Regulations were clear, Tuvok had no choice but to give him the report. He informed the Captain Methos had requested the report and she had no choice but to add her official report from the trial as well. Captain Janeway had been having trouble sleeping for the past two days. When her only goal was to try and find the two missing men, she could put what she had seen out of her mind. When she saw Methos again, and in the circumstances she saw him in, she could no longer do it. All she could see was his bloodied, painted, dead body. It brought up too many memories of his life she had seen. Seeing the dismembered corpses surrounding the camp only added to the vividness of her recollection of the trial. How was she supposed to make it through that party tonight? Methos returned to Tom's quarters after his meeting with Tuvok, and Tom was still on the couch watching vids. He was obviously trying to get drunk again, and it just as obviously wasn't working. There were empty glasses scattered over the coffee table and Tom was downing another drink as Methos walked in. "It's not going to work Tom. You can get a pretty good buzz, but that's about it. Our party starts in two hours, do you want me to come and get you first?" "I'm not going, I don't feel up to it." "Oh, and I suppose I do! Stop your self-pity fest and get ready. I'll send Harry and B'Elanna to get you if you don't show up within an hour of the start of the party. I'm going home. I've had a shitty day myself Tom. I'm assuming Chakotay told you what happened during the trial. I am going to the party, and I have to face four people who know more about me than anyone has any right to know. All you have to do is face a jealous boyfriend, how hard will it be Tom. Just stay away from each other until your both cooled off OK? I'll see you in a little while." He kissed Tom on the top of his head before he left. He understood a person's wanting to be alone to work through things. He would leave Tom alone. Methos had just enough time to take a shower before the party. He would deal with Duncan after the party. How dare Mac have kept this from him. Mac would have some explaining to do, but Methos believed in having all of the facts before initiating a confrontation. He would wait until he had the full reports from Tuvok before he said anything. Methos could act like there was nothing wrong for one night, hell he could act like there was nothing wrong as long as he needed to. --- Methos arrived at the party in Holodeck one just as it was getting underway. He waited near the door for Tom to arrive, sending Mac to the bar to get him a drink. Methos didn't know if it was his threat to have Tom dragged bodily to the party by a certain half-Klingon Chief Engineer, or just Tom's acceptance of the inevitable, but he arrived just a few minutes after Mac and Methos. Tom had a smile on his face and was wearing clothes. Well at least an improvement, even if the smile was fake and the clothes were two sizes too big. B'Elanna saw Tom come in as well, and she rushed over to greet him. She had only seen him briefly since he had returned from the planet and she had to see him. She hadn't realized exactly how much she had missed him until she saw him enter the holodeck. The crew had decided to have the party in Sandrine's, thinking Tom would want it there. They were right, but not for the reason they thought. Sandrine's was darker than the resort and had corner booths to hide in. That's exactly where Tom headed as soon as he walked in the door. Methos followed him to the booth and sat next to him, and B'Elanna slid in on the other side. Methos observed Tom carefully, knowing he was under immense strain and was extremely nervous about facing the rest of his shipmates for the first time since returning to Voyager. Chakotay walked into Sandrine's with the Captain and Tuvok only moments after Methos, Tom, and B'Elanna settled at their table. Luckily they were at a table for four and Duncan was about to join them. The three senior officers settled into the booth next to the guests of honor, and each table was soon surrounded by welcoming crew members. Harry arrived at the party with Seven but soon afterwards he pulled a chair up to join his best friend's table while Seven joined the senior staff. No one noticed the two tables were not really communicating with each other. There were too many well wishers surrounding both parties for anyone to notice the non-communication. Methos couldn't stop looking at Tom, he could see the young man falling apart as B'Elanna questioned him about his life on their planet. He could feel his leg tapping under the table and a matching hand above the table playing with his napkin, ripping it to shreds. Methos intervened and tried to answer B'Elanna's questions. He told Tom's first time hunting story and actually got a real smile out of the blond man. Chakotay watched their table all evening, not taking his eyes off of Tom and Methos. He was angry, how could MacLeod sit next the two of them practically pressed together in the booth? Chakotay pulled his eyes away and concentrated on the occupants of his own table. Every time he looked back at Tom he could tell the man was falling apart. Why didn't anyone else notice? Well wishers were taking turns visiting the two returned men and Methos did the talking for both of them. Chakotay watched Neelix approach the table and knew the Talaxian's special brand of moral was going to be the proverbial last straw for Tom. Chakotay wanted to run interference, but he knew it wouldn't be appreciated. He could only sit and watch as Tom went over the edge. Neelix had a huge grin on his face as he approached the booth holding his lost friend. He was his normal Neelix self and began chattering away, not pausing to breath between sentences and trains of thought, "Tom!! I am so happy to see you. I must say you've never looked better, your planet must have been a paradise. I've made all your favorite foods for the next few weeks, menu A-La- Paris, everyone else will just have to eat what you like. Tomorrow for break----" "Neelix, thanks, I've gotta go....." Tom jumped out of the booth, crawling over a surprised B'Elanna on his way out. He was practically running as he hit the door to the holodeck and plowed through a group of late arrivals to the party as he exited. Neelix looked hurt and confused, "Was it something I said?" Is Tom not feeling well? I thought the Doctor said he was in perfect health." "Mr. Neelix, Tom's just tired, as am I. You've done a wonderful job with the party and I can't tell you how much the welcoming back from the crew has meant to us. I am going to excuse myself for the night as well. Neelix, don't take it personally, it's been a hectic couple of days for us. OK?" Methos didn't know how he was able to smooth the Talaxian's ruffled feathers, still pay attention to Mac, and keep Torres from following Tom, but he did it. Ahh, The intrigues of the court of Louis XVI have nothing on the Voyager crew. He soon joined Tom in making his excuses, albeit slightly less abruptly, and was about to leave when he noticed Mac staring at him. The Highlander didn't look pleased. "Methos, were you planning on talking to your hosts at all? They're sitting at the next table, the least you could do is be polite. Or have you forgotten there are other people here besides you and Paris?" "No, Mac, I haven't forgotten, I just don't want to talk to them right now." "The Captain is motioning you over to their table, you had better go and be polite. Then we can leave." "Don't order me Highlander." Methos hissed in a dangerous tone so only MacLeod could hear. He knew the correct protocol and he didn't need Mac reminding him. Maybe he could feign a breakdown like Tom's, no it wouldn't work, Mac would know and so would Chakotay. The Commander had been watching him all night and he knew the man was not happy with him. He didn't know if it was because of Tom or because of the trial. He would say goodnight to the senior staff and be on his way. He approached the booth the members of his tribunal sat in and he could swear he felt the air turn icy even if he knew it was only his imagination. The Captain had a smile pasted on her features as she addressed him, "Hello Methos, are you leaving early as well? I can't blame you it has been a stressful few days." She had slipped into informal diplomatic mode, but wasn't meeting his eyes, a rather large breach of her self-imposed decorum. The fact wasn't lost on the nothing if ever observant Methos. He let her keep to the formal proprieties and shifted his attention to Tuvok. Fine let them all know what he was planning. "Commander Tuvok? What time can I pick up that report tomorrow?" MacLeod hadn't heard that Methos was getting an informal transcript of his trial and wanted to know what he was talking about, "What report Methos?" The Vulcan answered for Methos, not letting him slip out of the confrontation he had initiated by telling a half-truth. "Methos has requested a transcript of his trial and under Starfleet regulations we must provide it to him. Methos, it will be ready at 0900 in my office. If you would prefer it sent to the terminal in your quarters instead, I will arrange it." "That's fine Tuvok. I'm tired and am going to bed. Thank you for the party Captain. Commanders, Goodnight." Methos managed to continue his charade of politeness, noticing again that the two humans participants of his trial would not look him in the eye. God Dammit!! What was in that report? Methos thought he had a pretty good idea, but hoped he was wrong. He made a less dramatic exit than Tom had and Mac followed right behind him. The two Immortals returned to their quarters together, Methos pacing, Mac concerned. Methos had to remind himself not to get started on a topic he wasn't ready for yet, but Mac decided he, at least, needed to talk right now. MacLeod was sure Tom had sent Methos to Tuvok to get the report, Methos wouldn't have known he could have done so otherwise. "Methos, please just let it go. Take a page out of your own book. It's over." Methos was becoming more agitated by the moment, caught up in his own horror at the truth he had uncovered. "Over, yeah right MacLeod, the Captain and Chakotay won't look at me, Tuvok is watching me like I could go berserk at any second, and you. You are treating me as if I would break if you breathed on me too hard. Over, right, sure, whatever you say........ I'll tell you what's over, MacLeod. Number one, any chance that the Captain will _ever_ trust me again. The woman cannot even bring herself to look at my face. I don't doubt but that it's because she sees far too much of my face in her dreams." "Number two, you are paying attention here, Highlander? Good, I Don't enjoy repeating myself. Number two, any hope that I might have had of salvaging our, no my, friendship with Chakotay is gone. He is under the impression that I seduced the child he is so fond of. Hardly." Methos had stopped in front of the window and was staring blankly into the stars. "God knows he probably saw me rape enough men and women. I am amazed that he hasn't actually come out and accused me of raping young Thomas as well. Oh well, give him time, I'm sure that it will come to him." Duncan tried to interrupt, but Methos continued on without notice. “Number three," he continued his litany of doom, "Any hope that I had of continuing to help the Doctor is gone. Funny that. I've always enjoyed medicine and in this century, the tools have improved enough that one can actually do some good." The old man's voice started rising and Methos flung himself into motion again. "Somehow I doubt that Captain Janeway will allow DEATH into her sickbay to try and stave off death from a member of her crew. Not that I can blame the woman." A vase suddenly was hurled across the cabin shattering against the far wall. MacLeod winced and lunged forward to grab his lover. "Sshh, Methos, sshhh," he murmured into the hair of the anguished man he held. Methos felt like hardened steel in his arms and Duncan concentrated on calming him. He ran his hands up and down Methos' back murmuring softly into his ear. I have got to stop this, MacLeod thought to himself. He shied away from past memories of other times when Methos' self loathing had almost gotten the better of both of them. He began nibbling enticingly at Methos' neck, hoping to lure his love away from this discussion. Silently damning Q to the lowest part of whatever perdition Q's were subject to, the Highlander focused his whole body on distracting and calming Methos. He breathed a sigh of relief when he felt Methos arch up into his embrace. So great was his anxiety that he didn't question the abrupt shift in Methos' behavior. Methos sought out MacLeod's mouth, capturing it in a bruising, crushing kiss. "Fuck me, Highlander." Methos began backing them towards their bed, "Fuck me hard." Duncan allowed himself to be pushed backwards against the bed and when his knees were against the bed Methos broke their kiss. He quickly stripped himself of his clothes, then tugged off Duncan's pants. "Come on, MacLeod," he urged, "Come on, right now! Hard!" Methos flipped himself onto his stomach, both to facilitate their joining and to conceal his eyes from MacLeod. He hoped he was wrong about this part, but, he didn't think so. He would soon find out. Occasional bouts of very rough sex had been a staple in their relationship for centuries, usually under just these circumstances. Rough sex was much more fun than rough words, and a hell of a lot easier to get over. Methos trembled slightly on the bed. He really _did_ want to be fucked by the Highlander right now. Mind bending sex was on top of his current list of ways to release his emotions. He almost screamed out his fury when he felt Duncan touch him. Not with the touch of a man who intended to fuck his oh-so willing partner, hell no! It was the soothing touch of a man trying to comfort a distraught child, possibly a hurt puppy. Fuck!! Methos surged up off of the bed throwing his clothes back on. "Last, but by no means least, Highlander, you are acting as if I am some fragile idiot that will shatter on contact. Do you remember how many times we have fucked each other? Not made love, not had sex. Fucked! I do, and I enjoyed all of them. I suppose that my memories will have to do, because somehow I think that you won't be sharing that particular bit of fun with me anymore. Pity. You were one hell of a rough ride when you put your mind to it, MacLeod." Methos stormed into the living area to put some distance between them, but Mac wouldn't allow him the sanctuary. He was hurt and upset and it showed in every move he made and every word he spoke. "Methos, Did Paris send you to Tuvok? .......Damn him! He couldn't stay out of this. Oh, no! He has to jump in where he is neither wanted nor needed." "What does that have to do with anything?!? Thank you MacLeod, but I will be the one who decides what I both want and need. This is between you and me. Leave him out of it. You knew I would find out sooner or later. I have an idea what happened at my trial Mac, but when I get the full report from Tuvok in the morning, I will know exactly how much of my life you have paraded in front of them." "Methos, I had no choice. Q was showin' yew as a monster, they were goin' ta find ya' guilty. I had to show them the other side to ya." Methos began speaking in a deceptively calm voice. It was the one he favored when he needed to make a point, but as each word left his lips, his voice got louder and his normal rich baritone became deeper and deeper. "Ohh, and what was that MacLeod? Helpless victim? Thank you so much for painting me as either monster or victim. I feel soooo much better now. What about everything in between? The pieces that make up most of my life? Mac, I don't think I can even stand to look at you right now. I need some air. .....Oh that's right we're on a bloody Starship, there is no fucking air!!!. MacLeod, I am going to have to leave Voyager if that report is as bad as I think it is." Methos' declaration sent Mac over the edge. Everything that had happened since Q had shown up came screaming back to the forefront of his mind. Methos' behavior at the party worried Mac. He knew Methos didn't like to be protected but he couldn't help himself. He didn't want Methos to read the report. He became angrier and angrier, more and more jealous. Tom wasn't at the trial. He hadn't seen what the rest of them had. With Paris, Methos could go back to pretending he was just a guy. And Tom and Chakotay weren't speaking. A frightening realization hit Mac, " Are Yew goin ta take Paris with yew?" Methos pulled up his angry pacing, his already hot temper shooting off of the scale. "Is _that_ your problem, Highlander? Again? You cannot seem to allow me to have one relationship outside of you, can you? Well, fuck you, MacLeod! Fuck you!" Methos considered what would happen if he were to strangle the bull headed Scot standing across from him. It was a good bet that he wouldn't be lowering the opinion the Senior Staff held of him any, and if he was careful, they might never hear what happened. The problem was that he wanted to kill the man slowly, loudly. Several times. Everything always had to be about Duncan MacLeod of the Clan MacLeod. Methos knew somewhere inside himself that wasn't strictly the case, but he resolved to listen to that voice at a later date. After he had strangled Duncan. Methos returned to the fray, "Tom Paris is my friend, my student. We were lovers and yes, I still love him. And you, Duncan MacLeod can get fucked for all that I care." Now MacLeod was trembling with anger. How dare Methos rub his nose in the affair the two men had shared. He had understood, but now it appeared that his compassion was totally unappreciated. Fine, two can play at this little game. Nice to know that living with Methos for four centuries had taught him a few things. Like where the buttons were kept. “Well, I hope ya' taught him more on your little vacation than how to fuck!" Methos knew exactly what to say to cause Duncan the most pain, "He already knew how to fuck, and pretty damn well. Actually, he may have taught me a thing or two. He's very talented for a youngster." "Talented at what, Methos? Hurting you? Is this another young lover who never listens to anyone? Maybe this one will get both of you killed, instead of just himself." Methos thought that time would stop. Never before had he known Duncan to be so cruel. Bringing Richie, however obliquely into this... well the stakes just went up. Way up. Duncan's heart jerked in response to what he saw. Methos was frozen across from him. God, I can't believe I said that. Oh shit, I have to make him think that I meant Byron, not Richie. I cannot believe I said _that_ ! "Damn it, Methos! Do you not remember what you felt when Byron left you? How much that hurt? How about when Byron cost Mike his life? Well maybe this time, you will end up dead as well." There, that should do it. "And I cannot stand by and watch that happen. If you go off with that boy you two will end up just like you were when Voyager found you, fighting for your lives, about to die. And I will not allow that. Do you understand me, Methos? I _will_ not allow it. Whatever I have to do, you and Tom Paris are not going to leave this ship together. I swear it, Methos. Whatever it takes." The room became deathly silent as Methos stared at Mac from across the room. His whole body stilled until Duncan thought he was looking at a statue of the man. When he finally spoke it was in the voice of the man called Death, "If you touch him, no, if you even make him THINK you would hurt him, you will never see me again. He already asked me once if you might challenge him, I guess we have the answer now. Believe me Duncan MacLeod of the clan MacLeod, you touch my student and you will be lucky if I take your head." Duncan knew they were approaching a precipice that if they went over, would be the end of their long relationship. He had to get control of himself, pull back, stop this now. "Methos, I am sorry, I dinna' mean wha' I said. I was angry." Methos yew hafta know I would never do that. I do no' challenge babies. And I would no challenge someone you care so much about." "No, Mac, let's examine your history with my ex-lovers. First, Kronos. You killed him. Second Byron, whom I really did love and who never hurt me. You killed him. Third, Richie, your own student. You killed him. Every one of my immortal lovers you have ever met, you've killed. Not a very trust inspiring track record MacLeod." Methos didn't believe all that he was saying, but his very old instinct to cut deep with his words and then twist the knife into his victim had taken over. Let MacLeod think of him as helpless, he had teeth and would use them. Duncan began speaking in a monotone, not even sure if he could control himself if he even allowed a semblance of emotion into his voice. "Get out. Get out of here right now before we both do something we regret. You're the one who's so good at running, you leave. If you donna' leave right now, I dunno know what I will do Methos." Methos stalked into the sleeping area, retrieved his sword and nothing else and walked out the door without looking back. He didn't know where he would go. If he wanted quarters, he would have to ask Chakotay. He really, really did not want to talk to Chakotay tonight. He liked Chakotay and no matter how much he pretended he didn't care, he wanted the man to like him. Right now, he didn't know if the Commander would even talk to him. --- He found himself in front of Tom's door an hour later. He didn't know it had been an hour, he had been wandering the corridors of Voyager carrying his sword. He didn't even realize when Tuvok began to follow him. Tuvok had his phaser at the ready should the Doctor's warning about Methos' mental health prove true, but Methos was just wandering. Most people were still at the party and Methos stayed away from the holodecks. Tuvok stood out of sight when Methos approached Lt. Paris' quarters, but his Vulcan hearing allowed him to overhear every word. Tom answered the door after a few minutes and stood in the entrance, blocking the way with his body. "Methos, if it were anyone else I wouldn't even have answered the door. What do you want? I was in bed." "In bed with a bottle? You reek of whiskey." "Thanks, now what do you want?" "A place to stay. Duncan kicked me out and I don't feel like facing Chakotay to get assigned my own quarters. Want to be roomies again?" Methos smiled nervously at the man in the door, he knew Tom had his own problems, but they did get along well together. Misery loves company. Tom stood there looking at him for another moment before he stepped aside and allowed Methos access. "Mi casa es su casa." The door slid shut behind the two of them and Tuvok stepped from the shadows. He planned to keep a very close eye on the two extremely volatile crewmembers. He went back to his security office to finish the report he knew Methos would retrieve first thing in the morning, not knowing what the repercussions of the report would be. --- When Tom woke up the following morning there was a familiar body draped over his. Methos had been right, he couldn't seem to get very drunk so he immediately remembered the events of the night before. Shit, Methos and Mac weren't talking. It was bad enough he and Chakotay were having a fight, but Mac and Methos too? This wasn't the way it was supposed to be! He got out of bed without disturbing the still sleeping Methos and went to shower. He settled himself onto his couch and popped in another vid. This time he was watching Attack Of The Killer Tomatoes. He had switched from alien movies to his favorite B movies. He had his whole day of vid watching planned out and he had already replicated two bottles of Scotch for the day. He briefly considered breaking into the Scotsman's quarters to get his hands on some of the real stuff, but prudently slipped the idea aside. Methos got up about halfway through his second movie and didn't seem to want to talk, so Tom left him alone. He showered and made himself breakfast, not a liquid one like Tom was enjoying, but real food. Even the smell of a vegetable omelet wafting across the room was not enough to stimulate Tom's hunger. He stayed sprawled on his couch and watched the other man eat. Methos was tired of being observed and decided he might as well talk to his new, albeit temporary, roommate. "Can I have a report delivered here?" "Yeah, I've already changed the access codes so you can come and go as you please and there's a subdirectory in the terminal for you. Are you getting Tuvok's report today?" "I am. The Captain's report will be added as well." "Methos, I don't think you should read it." "Thomas, if I wanted your advice I would have asked you for it. Not all of us can pretend the world around them doesn't exist." Tom wasn't taking the bait, he too knew Methos well enough to get in a jab, "Funny, from what you've told me, that strategy has worked pretty well for you throughout your life. Why change now?" Tom shot him an impish grin, knowing he had scored a point. "A baby, I'm being bested by a baby, I really have gone soft." Methos went quiet for a minute, deciding whether or not Tom would understand what he was about to say, "Tom, I have to know, and I have to know now. I may have to leave Voyager. I haven't told you everything about me. You know what I've done wrong, but you don't know the other side. Remember on the shuttle when you said you couldn't stand it if anyone saw you as a victim? Well, let's just say that being raped once by three prisoners doesn't even begin to compare with even one of my less grisly memories that they were forced to watch as part of the trial. I can only imagine which of them they actually saw. Duncan is acting as if I am made of china, the Captain alternates between looking at me like I'm a monster and like she's going to cry, and Chakotay's the least of it, he only wants to kill me because he thinks I stole his boyfriend." "He doesn't think that Methos. He knows I fucked up, not you. He's mad at me, maybe if I stay away from him for awhile he'll cool down. It hurts that he hasn't even tried to call me though." "Well, have you tried calling him?" "No." "You are the one who walked out right?" "Yes, but that's not what's important." "Whatever you say Tom. I'm going to use the terminal in the bedroom. Watch your vids and get drunk, I have a feeling I'll be joining you in a few hours. Replicate me some beer would you? Lots of it please." Methos walked back into the living area three hours later, barely able to hold himself upright. Ton had never seen anything affect the old man so badly, not the threat of execution, not being tortured, and not fighting for his life. He didn't know what to say to him so he didn't say anything. Methos went to the replicator and replicated himself another six-pack of beer. It was his second, but Tom didn't feel like he could comment. He was already working on his second bottle of Scotch. They sat in silence, watching the black and white version of The Bad Seed. Both men were thinking it was an appropriate movie. Tom took a chance talking to Methos when the vid ended and soon regretted it, "Methos, what happened? Do you want to talk about it?" "No, and don't say another word about it. What time is it?" "Uhhhmmm, 1900." "I hate the fucking military! Can't you just say 7:00?", Methos spat out. He was pissed and losing it. "Methos, you need to talk. Talk to me, I understand what your going through." Tom knew he and Methos could talk to each other. He had been wondering why he was so concerned about Chakotay. Maybe he should just concentrate on Methos. They seemed to get along better with each other than they did with their respective partners. "YOU UNDERSTAND?!?!?!? Noooo, Thomas, you have no clue what you are talking about. Drop it NOW, or I may get upset." "Methos, stop it. If you don't think I could possibly understand, then make me." "You don't know what your saying, but I'm in a foul mood and you asked for it. Let's see if I can alienate my last friend, shall we?" Methos got out of his chair and walked over to where Tom was sitting on the couch. He sat down next to him and began speaking in a low even voice, "Close your eyes and relax Tom. Listen to my voice." Tom was listening and waiting, but he didn't know what he was waiting for. He closed his eyes tight and let his body relax into the couch. He didn't know it, but the alcohol he had been consuming all day only helped Methos to talk him into a trance more readily. Methos began to speak again, slowly and softly. He hadn't done this in ages but was sure he could, "Tom, picture yourself in New Zealand, you're in a park, enjoying the day. It's your second day in prison and it's not as bad as you thought it would be. You're in a beautiful setting, the chores aren't difficult, the food's not too bad, and no one makes any demands of you." Methos saw Tom relaxing and it was having an effect on him as well. He briefly reconsidered what he was about to do to the young immortal, but he had a need to lash out at someone. He would share his pain and see if Tom really wanted to understand or not. If the man didn't, he really would be losing his last friend. Tom was following along, not knowing he was being set up. Methos' voice had a musical quality to it he had never heard before and he had deepened it to the lowest register he could. Tom was easily falling into the trance Methos was sending him into. "You've just finished your assignment for the day and head back to your cell. You head to the showers and take a shower, then go to dinner. You eat, talk with a few of your fellow prisoners and go back to your room." Methos was taking the long way to the events he was leading up to. It would ensure the man really believed he was there. "You pick up a pad and begin reading it, but it's one you've already read. You look at the chronometer and decide you have enough time to go to the recreation room to pick up a new pad before lock down. You walk down the deserted hallway, most of the other prisoners have already settled in for the night because it's so close to lock down time. You approach the rec. room and see it's empty so you go inside." Methos didn't know all of the details of the event he was describing, but he had been there enough times and knew human nature well enough, so his version would be close enough to the young man's memories to make him positive he was really there. "You're looking through the pads, trying to make a decision when you realize you're not alone in the room anymore. You don't give it a second thought because you're in a public place. Besides, you're in a Starfleet Penal Settlement, what could happen. You've decided on a book and you pick up the pad and head for the door. But, before you can get across the room, someone grabs you from behind and pulls your arms behind your back. You put up a good fight, almost getting away from the person who grabbed you when another person steps in front of you and slams his fist into your stomach. You haven't gotten the point yet that you're outnumbered by three to one. Not only are you outnumbered three to one, but they are three huge, ass-ugly bastards. Another one comes up and pounds you in the jaw, knocking out some teeth and now your bleeding all over yourself." Methos took a deep breath before continuing, this was harder for him than he though it would be. He was angry when he started, now he was only re-telling one of his own many experiences. If he saw the distress coming from the man on the couch, he didn't notice it. He was too far gone into his own memories. His voice was even softer when he continued, but with every word he spoke, his words became more brittle and his tone sharpened. He couldn't stop what he was about to do if he tried. "They take turns hitting you, not because you're still fighting them, but because they like hurting you. Then they start talking to you, letting you know this isn't just a beating. They call you Blondie and Sweet Thing, and Little One. Before you realize it, you're on your hands and knees. The one behind you pulls down your pants and shorts, leaving them around your ankles, while the guy at your head holds you still by your hair. The one standing over your back kicks you in the ribs for good measure. You think your going to die from the pain of the blows, but then you're introduced to what real pain is. The guy at your ass has been busy and he's ready to party. He slams his dick so far up your ass in one thrust that you think you are going to pass out. No lube, no by your leave, no finger to stretch you out. Just a huge dick pounding into your virgin ass. You try to scream, the red hot searing pain having to get out somehow, but the guy at your head has been busy too, his dick is so far down your throat you think you're about to suffocate to death. They're pounding into you from both ends, using you, hurting you, laughing at you. Saying how well you can fuck when all your doing is trying to breath through the dick pounding in and out of your throat. The worst thing is, your own cock is getting hard. You can't possibly like what they're doing to you can you? On top of everything else is the shame, you've got an erection, and they see it. The guy behind you yells when he comes inside your ass and he falls on top of you and you think you can't support his weight, but the one still fucking your mouth holds you up by your head. You thank your favorite gods that the pain to your ass is gone, but the fun is just beginning. The guy who had been patiently waiting his turn pulls you back to your knees and starts fucking you just as the last guy had, but this time it doesn't hurt quite so bad. There's enough blood, your blood, and cum dripping out of your ass to act as a lubricant. He pounds you harder than the last guy, and his dick feels twice as big. By now you're crying, there's nothing else you can do. The guy with his dick tickling your tonsils finally comes and you almost drown on his cum. He pulls out of your mouth, and when he sees you spitting, he slaps a hand over your nose and another over your mouth, you have no choice you swallow all of it, but he still doesn't let you breath. The guy pounding your ass speeds up his pace and as his dick rubs your prostate over and over, you come all over yourself. The guy with his hands over your mouth lets go and you fall to the floor gasping for breath. They kick you in the ribs and stomach a few more times to drive the point home, and start talking about round two. But you're saved by the bell, literally, and they run off leaving you there in a puddle of blood, cum, yours and theirs, and your tears." Methos stopped his long soliloquy to catch his breath, he no longer knew where he was or what he was doing. He just knew he had to finish, to get it over with, then he could worry about his own, and the man he was deliberately torturing, mental states. He took a deep breath and plunged on, "You're laying there wanting to die, convinced you're going to and happy with the prospect, when you look up. You feel someone there and you panic thinking they've come back, you try to get up, to hide, but your body isn't responding. You look up at the people, ready to figure out some way to kill yourself before they can, but you get a closer look at them. The people looking down at you are none other than Captain Kathryn Janeway, Duncan MacLeod, Commander Tuvok and your own Chakotay. They saw the entire episode. Everything from your begging, to your surrender, to your coming all over yourself as three men pound into your body, to the aftermath of your being violently raped. They watched the whole thing!!!! " Methos practically shouted at the entranced man on the couch next to him, "NOW, are you about to stay on this ship?! Do you understand now Thomas?! Isn't that what you said you wanted? To understand? Well now you do." Methos fell to the floor. He hadn't realized he was perched on the edge of the couch as he spoke until he lost his balance and fell to the deck. He put his face in his hands and sat there, unable and unwilling to move. Whatever Tom would do to him now, he knew he deserved it. Tom had curled up in a ball when he came out of the trance Methos had put him in. Violent sobs were wracking his body, tearing him apart. He did understand, he didn't know if he could face the senior staff again and his memories of them watching him were fake. For Methos it was real. He felt the shame and dirtiness he hadn't felt in years and for a minute he though he had imagined the past five years and he was still in prison. He couldn't stop crying or shaking and he curled into a tight a ball as he could, withdrawing into himself. He was caught in the memories of what happened after that day. Methos had opened the floodgate and everything was coming out. He remembered the shame at being a whore. He thought at the time he was lucky to be one of the most wanted men in the prison, but once he got out, he realized just how pathetic he had been. When he first came onto Voyager he was so filled with self-loathing he wondered why he hadn't killed himself. He knew why, the Captain needed him and she had given him a chance when no one else would. He remained curled into a ball for hours, Methos at his side, still with his head in his hands. Tom had cried himself out and fallen asleep when Methos shook him awake. "Tom, do you want to go to the bed? I'll sleep out here, it is your bed. Here," Methos was handing Tom one of his daggers, "Kill me as violently as you want to I deserve it. Eviscerate me if it will make you feel better." "Methos that's enough!! I brought what you did on myself. I'll never know when to keep my big mouth shut. Methos I'd understand if you wanted to leave Voyager. I don't think you should, but I'd understand. Instead of leaving, why don't you hide out in here with me?" "Thomas Eugene Paris, I have failed you as a teacher." "What?" "Child, if you don't stop forgiving people so easily, someone will take your head the day after you return to the Alpha Quadrant. The least I deserve is your anger." "Methos, I practically begged you to do that to me. And it hurt. Bad. But I asked for it. What time is it?" "Three A.M. why?" "I feel like flying, its the only thing that makes me feel better, want to come?" "Now?" "I told you I was planning on hiding out for a few weeks, the Captain authorized us four hours of holodeck time a day to get back up to par on our flying skills. I plan on becoming a night person. I figure if I fly from 0100 until 0500 every night, I'll miss shift changes and never see anyone. I plan on getting drunk all day and then sleeping all afternoon and evening. That's my new schedule, you want in?" "Let's go." --- Duncan MacLeod turned over in his bed and reached for Methos. He ran his hand back and forth looking for the man who had shared his bed for almost four centuries, confused when he was unable to find him. "Methos?, he called quietly, still asleep, where are you?" Duncan sat up in bed and called softly again before he woke up enough to remember why Methos wasn't answering him. Damn it all. Duncan swore quietly and threw himself to his feet. "Computer, lights." Duncan began pacing around their, (his!), room. Why did Methos leave me, he wondered. All I did was try to show him a little compassion. I swore to myself that I would never again allow myself to use him the way others have used him and this is the thanks I get for it. Ungrateful Relic! The Highlander ran his hands through his long hair, becoming more and more upset by the moment. How dare he! MacLeod muttered under his breath. After all of the times that I have come through for him, been there for him... I suppose he would rather spend his time with that wet behind the ears Lt. of his. Tom Paris has _no_ idea who or what Methos is, why on Earth does he hide out with him? Tom can't help him, can't understand what he's going through, can't.... Duncan stopped his mental tirade. Good one, MacLeod. I don't suppose that stupidity is going to work as an excuse in this case, is it? Duncan breathed a long sigh out his nostrils, stupid, stupid, stupid, he castigated himself. Of course Methos is hiding out with Tom Paris. Duncan stopped by their couch and lowered his tired body onto it. Damn it, MacLeod. You know him well enough to understand that pity is the _very_ last thing that he either wants or needs. And yet, you were determined to give him your pity. STUPID!! Duncan cast his mind back to one of his own memories.... 1940's Warsaw... Duncan MacLeod struggled against the bonds his captors had used to bind his ankles and wrists. Whatever it took, he had to escape these pigs. The Nazi approached him and ran his hands through Mac's hair. "How very foolish of you to be helping the Jews try to escape. There is no escape from us, you know. None at all. The tall, blonde officer waived to his troops, signaling them to enter the room where he held his captive. "No escape whatsoever. Perhaps, you need to be reminded of that fact." With that comment had begun a hell that Duncan MacLeod of the Clan MacLeod had only imagined in his worst nightmares. He had been sure that he would die before it was finished, no he had hoped and prayed that he would die. And yet, death had not come, only a feeling of utter despair and self-loathing. It had taken decades, no centuries before MacLeod felt able to review the memories without complete self hatred. He shouldn't have been in that situation. Should have been able to escape...so very many should haves.. Duncan wrenched his mind back to the present, ignoring the still burning pain of those memories. MacLeod, you are an idiot. You were raped once in 8oo years. You cannot begin to fathom, even now, how many times, by how very many different people Methos has been raped. Physically and spiritually! And yet, you wanted to kiss it and make it better! Stupid!! Duncan paced around his quarters, picking up everything and anything that reminded him of Methos. He played Methos' favorite music and a song jumped out at him. Perfect!!! He had a plan now. He would get Paris alone somehow and ask him to help. Chakotay said just a few days ago that Tom would do anything for his friends and Duncan hoped he was right. He went to bed feeling slightly better, he would do something, it might not work, but he had to try. He left the music, music he hated, playing because it reminded him of Methos. Methos was just two decks away on this little ship, but he might have been in the Alpha Quadrant for all Duncan had seen him in the past month. Hopefully that would change soon. --- Tom and Methos spent the next three weeks doing exactly what they had planned. Tom's plan worked so well they never saw another person in that whole time. Methos was getting restless even if Tom was not. He had been thinking of ways to smooth things over with at least two members of his tribunal, the easy two. He knew how he would deal with the Vulcan already, he wouldn't. The Vulcan was the easiest one. Methos knew he wouldn't have to do anything to make up with the man, he could work things out himself, and if he couldn't he wouldn't act any differently. The Captain would be relatively easy also. At least compared to Chakotay and MacLeod. He sat back down at the terminal he had been working on all morning, Tom was still sleeping. He finished his message and sent it, confident she would at least read it. The rest was up to her. Methos was ready to rejoin the world and he planned to pull his reluctant roommate back into it with him. He was in what he liked to call his 'full manipulation mode', but this time it was for a good cause, he just hoped it would work. If it didn't then he would leave Voyager. Tom was used to living on a Starship again and he had at least gotten used to the fact he was an Immortal. He still didn't want anyone to know, but he was becoming more and more comfortable with the idea. Methos wanted him to talk to his friends, if he had to turn Harry Kim and B'Elanna Torres away from their door one more time he thought he'd scream. The two hadn't given up in almost a month. He would start Tom's reintegration there and then work on the tough one, Chakotay. He sent a message to Harry and B'Elanna, asking them to meet him the next day. He hoped they would show up, no he knew they would. --- The next morning, while Tom was still sleeping, Methos slipped out of their quarters during the day for the first time in three weeks. His location check told him the Commander was in his quarters so that's where he headed. He had to do this for Tom. He couldn't believe how the man gave his unconditional friendship once it was earned. It took a long time to earn, but once you had it, it was yours forever. He briefly considered the possibility that their respective relationships couldn't be fixed and if they would go back to a more intimate relationship if that happened. He and Tom hadn't been intimate since the planet. They hadn't discussed it, but Methos knew why and so did Tom. It didn't matter that they wouldn't be believed if they told their lovers the truth, they knew it was the truth. He stood outside of the Commander's door for a minute planning his strategy before he rang the chimes. Chakotay answered the door wearing civilian clothing and almost dropped the pad he was carrying when he saw who his visitor was. He stood there staring at Methos until Methos couldn't stand it any longer. "May I come in?" Chakotay hesitated, then stepped aside. He put his pad down and went to the replicator. "Would you like a drink?" "Fruit juice will be fine." The Commander replicated juice for the both of them and sat down behind his desk. Methos didn't expect the man to be relaxed and informal with him so he took the chair across from the desk. "I'm sure your wondering why I'm here." "Yes, you could say that." Gods! The man was going to be no help whatsoever! "I'm here about Tom, you know Lt. Tom Paris, the man who loves and needs you and the man you've been ignoring for almost a month now." "You've got it wrong Methos. He's been ignoring me. He obviously needs his space and I'm giving it to him." Chakotay was bristling at Methos, he obviously had more to say, but wasn't willing to. "Chakotay, you know that's not true. If you would just talk to the man, you would realize it." "Are you getting tired of him? I can't think of any other reason for you to be playing matchmaker Methos. Have you decided you don't want him anymore so you're giving him back to me?" "Chakotay, be careful. First, I don't think of him as someone to be given or taken. Maybe you should try that. Secondly, the man is my friend and I care about him. He wants you. Not me. I want Duncan, not him. How hard is that for you two bull-headed, uptight, idiots to understand!! I just wanted to come in here and have a friendly conversation with you, to let you know in case you haven't figured it out that he would be amenable to a reconciliation. He's afraid you're going to reject him so he hasn't tried. If you are going to reject him, don't go near him. He'll get over you eventually if you stay away from him." "Is that all Methos?" "No, it's not. Chakotay, I had hoped you and I could be friends again. Maybe I was wrong. I'll be going now." Methos got up and walked out the door leaving a stunned Commander Chakotay sitting behind his desk. Chakotay didn't know what to make of his visitor. He liked Methos if he could only get past his own irrational jealousy. He had been thinking about he and Tom's breakup continuously since it had happened and he realized he was too hard on the man. If he had been in his situation, he didn't know how he would have reacted and he considered himself to be more stable than the younger man. Maybe he was wrong. Chakotay decided he would meditate and try to visit with his spirit guide. Maybe she would help him sort out what he was feeling towards both Methos and Tom. When Methos left his quarters, he didn't know it, but a signal rang in his old quarters alerting Duncan MacLeod he had left. Duncan had been waiting for that signal for two weeks now. Methos and Tom hadn't been separated once in that time and he needed to talk to Paris alone. As soon as the bell chimed he knew what it meant and hurried to the Lt.'s quarters. He didn't know how long he would have before Methos returned so he ran the whole way there. --- Captain Janeway returned to her quarters to find a message marked personal and urgent waiting on her terminal. She made herself a cup of coffee and sat down to read it. It wasn't what she was expecting. When she began the playback Methos' face filled her screen. He looked as nervous as a six thousand year old man possibly could. It was rather charming and she felt herself being drawn to the man on the screen. She settled in to hear what he had to say, hoping it was good news and not an announcement he was leaving Voyager. She didn't want him to go. Her wanting him to stay confused her to no end, she still hadn't reconciled the man she knew with the one Q had shown her. Methos began speaking on her terminal and she gave him her full attention. "Captain Janeway, first I would like to apologize to you for everything that you've been through since you found me. I really didn't want to drag you and your officers through something like this. Believe me, if I could have prevented it, even with my life, I would have. I am even sorrier I cost you five months more travel time. I know how dedicated you are to getting this crew home, preferably while they are still young enough to enjoy it." Methos paused and took a deep breath seemingly trying to compose himself, "Now that that's out of the way, I have a present for you. I asked Tom if you liked history and he said you did, but history that related to scientific discovery and exploration. When we were first found and brought back to Voyager, I noticed you hadn't read any of my journals I left you the access codes to. I wondered about that for awhile but I understand if you were afraid to read anything after you saw parts of my life." Kathryn stopped the vid, not quite understanding him. The reason she hadn't read his journals was because then she would be admitting that he and Tom were never coming back. She couldn't ever let herself think that, not even when she didn't think she could ever look at him again. She didn't spend five months just looking for Tom, she wanted Methos back too! She never guessed he would think it was because she was afraid to read his diaries. . She needed to talk to him, but would hear him out first. There was enough non-communication going on on her ship as it was, she refused to be part of it. She would talk to him. The poor man had been through enough in his lifetime without adding the guilt that belonged solely to Q. She continued the vid and his voice floated into her room again, "I have picked out some entries I thought you would enjoy. I didn't think you'd have time to wade through all of my journals, so I highlighted things I thought you would like. Most of it is pretty boring, so I just tried to find the significant stuff. While you're reading, please remember, I didn't know every person in the history books even though it may seem at times that I did. But I did have the pleasure of knowing one man I think you admire and respect. If you start your reading with the journal covering the Renaissance, and just read all of the marked passages, I think you'll find some interesting reading material. I can keep you occupied for months if you want more. Just let me know which period and I'd be happy to highlight the good parts for you. Captain, I've never let anyone read my journals before, enjoy. One more thing before I go, I am trying to get Tom out of these quarters, but it's been tough. I think he's ready, but he needs a little nudge. You might want to consider cutting off our unlimited replicator rations soon." Captain Janeway was stunned, she had not been expecting any of what Methos had done, especially the last part. Well, if he needed help with Tom, she would give it. She had been monitoring the two men's flight records and knew they were both up to speed. Tom was ready to fly again, but Methos was right, first he needed a little push in the right direction. Methos would get her help too, even though he hadn't asked for it. She would schedule a meeting with MacLeod and Chakotay. Someone had to talk some sense into those two. They had been lowering moral on her ship, skulking through the corridors and hanging out in Sandrine's. Kathryn had heard the term Dour Scot from her grandmother whenever her grandfather started brooding, but her grandfather was no match for the original Dour Scot who was now on her ship. If she didn't know better, she would have thought Chakotay was one too. She commed both of them but neither answered so she left her summons for the meeting the following morning on their terminals. She would take care of this, it had gone on long enough. But first she wanted to read the journal Methos had mentioned. She had a suspicion he had known Leonardo, now she was going to find out for sure. She had until the next morning before she had any duties to attend to and marveled at the man's timing. Surely he couldn't have hacked into the computer to know when she would be free? Could he have? --- When Duncan returned to his quarters after his successful meeting with Paris he found the Captain's summons waiting for him. He had no idea what she wanted, but he had a feeling he was about to be dressed down. It was the set of her shoulders and the thin line of her mouth that gave it away. He wondered what he had done but figured he would find out in the morning. He and Chakotay had been going to Sandrine's each night, sitting in the corner, playing cribbage and telegraphing their wanting to be left alone. Most of the crew gave them a wide berth. Even B'Elanna wasn't willing to try and talk to the two obviously upset men. They were having a guilt fest together and no one else was invited. Chakotay had been right about Tom, as soon as Duncan explained to him what he wanted to do, he agreed to help. He insisted on an odd schedule, but he agreed to the plan. Mac had to do the initial work, but when he was ready for Tom's help, he only needed to ask for it. His terminal signaled an incoming message and it was Chakotay inviting him to dinner. He didn't know why the man bothered, they ate together every night. "Duncan, did you get a message from the Captain today?" When Mac replied with the affirmative, Chakotay continued, "She sounded irritated do you have any idea what it could be about?" "No, but I think might have something to do with our lowering of crew morale. I overheard Harry telling Neelix today that people are afraid to come near us. He actually said people would rather deal with B'Elanna in full Klingon mode than the two of us." "Spirits, I hadn't realized I was that bad. I thought I was covering my feelings well. Methos came to my quarters today, did you get a chance to catch Tom alone?" "Yes and you were right, he agreed to help me. I think you have a chance with him if he was so willing to help me grovel to Methos." "And I think you have a chance with Methos. He came here to play matchmaker for Tom and I. Sometimes I don't understand the two of them Mac. I realized today I would never understand Methos, but I just might be able to understand Tom if I talked to him instead of at him. Do you want to hear about what I did today over dinner tonight?" "Your quarters or mine?" "Yours, I'll be right over." Chakotay was right over and Duncan already had their meal ready. He didn't even have to ask Chakotay anymore what he wanted for dinner, he knew the man well enough to know without being told. They sat down and ate but Duncan wanted to know what Chakotay had been talking about earlier, he was curious what had changed the man's attitude around. "So, are you going to keep me waiting all night? What did you do today that makes you ready to actually listen to Tom?" "Duncan, don't start, I feel like an ass as it is and you are not one to talk. Now, do you want to hear about my day?" "Go ahead." "After Methos left my quarters, I got to thinking about what he had said and I realized he was probably right. So I went to the holodeck to meditate. Usually I do it in my own quarters, but I didn't want any distractions." Duncan was not looking at the Commander and he got a little annoyed, "Are you listening to me?" "Yes, but why did Methos come to your quarters?" "To talk to me about Tom your Poocuh. Listen." "I was listening, you were in the holodeck... continue." "I sat down to meditate, running my Dorvan IV program and planning to meet my spirit guide, but when I entered a meditative state, I was in the jungle somewhere and my father was waiting for me. He explained to me we were on Earth in Central America in the ancestral homelands of our people. He took me to a city and told me we were in Tenochtitlan, the capitol of the Aztec empire. I had never heard of it and he told me it was long gone. The people could see us and we could see them. We wondered around for a few hours and I couldn't figure out what we were doing there. The city was magnificent and the people friendly. After he led me around for a few hours, a war party returned to the city and all the residents greeted them as conquering heroes. It was amazing, the brotherhood, the public spirit, the feeling of belonging. When all of the warriors were back in the city, they led their prisoners of war to the largest of the pyramids and sacrificed them to The Sun God. I couldn't believe it, these gentle people, farmers, astronomers, merchants, they sacrificed their enemy!" Chakotay had stopped speaking and was watching Mac to see what his response would be. He really didn't have one, he didn't know where Chakotay was going on this one. Chakotay watched him for a minute, his dinner totally forgotten, before continuing. "We walked around the city some more and then we ended back up in my favorite woods on Dorvan IV. I sat down and waited for my father to speak to me. Of course he didn't, so I started talking to him. I tried to understand what all this had to do with Tom, but I finally got the point. It wasn't about Tom, it was about Methos. My father took pity on me and got right to the point, 'Chakotay' he said, 'those were your ancestors. If you had been born then, how would you have acted? You would have been a warrior, like all the men of the tribe. If you were given the gift and curse of immortality, what kind of man would you be now? Would you be able to look back on your life and have no regrets?' Duncan he left me then and I continued to meditate for a few more hours. He was right wasn't he? Immortality is both a gift and a curse?" "Chakotay, your father was a wise man, I wish I could have met him. So are you OK with Methos now?" "I was always OK with him, just too stupid to see it. Tom needs me doesn't he? Do you remember what your first few years of immortality were like?" "Yes, and they weren't pleasant. Tom is going to work with me on a program for Methos, I'll try to do what I can, and I especially want to show Methos that I like Tom and would never harm him. Can you believe the wee fool actually accused me of wanting to challenge Paris? Chakotay, you know I would never do that right?" "Of course I know that Duncan, he does too, he was just upset when he said that. If I could take back the words I spoke in anger to Tom, I would. Neither of us can, so we are just going to have to make it up to them." "What do you think the Captain wants with us tomorrow?" "She's probably going to tell us to take it easier on the crew. I'm feeling pretty bad that I'm being compared to a Klingon in a snit. It's not a pretty sight and I am going to owe some apologies. I've been acting like a child." "You aren't the only one Chakotay." "I'm going to bed early, good night, I'll meet you in the mess hall before our meeting. I just hope the Captain doesn't drink too much coffee before we get there. I don't think you've ever experienced the 'Kathryn Janeway, I've had too much coffee and I'm going to tell you just what I think' mode. Believe me, you don't want to." -- "Paris, it's midnight, come on time to get up." Methos threw some clothes at the half-awake man and tried to hurry him along. He had to shower and eat before they went to the holodeck and Methos wanted to use every second allotted them to run the program. Methos had found a program in the computer core that no one had ever accessed and he knew the second he saw it that it had Tom Paris written all over it. Tom did as he was told without question. Methos was excited and Tom knew whatever they were going to be doing tonight would be different than normal, and he knew it would be fun whatever it was. When they stepped onto the holodeck Methos called up the program and a field appeared. At one end of the field was an airplane hanger and at the other end a dirt strip landing area. The buildings were made of wood and Tom could tell the time period was somewhere in the twentieth century. He didn't know when and waited for Methos to tell him. "Tom, I was going through the programs last night and I found this one in a group called antique flying vehicles. There are ten programs in the group, starting with this one continuing on through World War II era planes and then all the way through to the first space shuttles. I though we'd start with this one and work through the whole group. We still have to practice on the bridge sim and on the modern shuttles, the Captain's been checking our progress, but I think if we spent half our time each night practicing she'd be satisfied. Here, put these on and follow me." Methos had thrown Tom a pair of goggles and a scarf and he gamely put them on. He followed Methos to the hanger and there were two Bi-planes waiting for them. Methos already knew how to fly them and ran Tom through the pre-flight checks and a short instruction period. He'd let him figure the rest out himself, they were on a holodeck with the safeties on after all. They didn't end up following their own self-imposed rule and flew the Bi-planes for all but the last half hour of their holodeck time. Tom couldn't remember feeling so free, the old fashioned planes were open to the air and the wind whipped around him as he flew aerial trick after trick. He was a quick learner on the ancient planes and he matched Methos in the acrobatics after a very short time. They ran out of the holodeck still laughing when their time ran out on them. For the first time in almost a month Tom didn't start drinking as soon as he entered his quarters. He was still flying in an old plane and couldn't wait to do it again the next night. He actually started tidying up the place, the first time he had done that too. Methos thought it was because of their holodeck adventure. What he didn't know was that Tom was still pleased with himself for agreeing to help with Duncan's plan. They stayed up talking about the old planes until late afternoon before finally going to sleep. Good, Methos said to himself as he fell asleep, phase one of Operation Reintegrate Paris implemented, phase two starts as soon as the Captain cuts off our rations. --- Captain Janeway spent the entire night immersed in Methos' diaries and she realized he had been wrong, she could never grow bored reading about the man's life. She realized she would never be able to read everything and of course there were things she did not want, or need, to know. The sections he had outlined for her included the two years he spent with Leonardo. The bonuses he had thrown in were his times with Michelangelo and Nicolas Copernicus. It was amazing who the man had known. She looked for a reference to one of her personal heroes, Madame Currie, but she couldn't find one. He had told her after all that he hadn't known everyone. She was still disappointed. She was on her third diary when she realized it was 0400 and she had a meeting with the two most stubborn men on board in four hours. She reluctantly put down the diary she was reading and as she did she saw a reference to her favorite poet, Lord Byron. She would just have to read it another time. She woke feeling refreshed even with only three hours of sleep. She was ready to knock some thick skulls together when her ready room door chimed as she finished her third cup of coffee. She allowed the to apprehensive men to settle into chairs before she lit into them. "Chakotay, Duncan, do you have any idea why I requested this meeting?" The two men shook their heads like schoolboys called into the principal's office. They had an idea, but didn't want to say anything in case they were wrong. There was no need to bring up something the Captain didn't. "Because of the two of you, Voyager is operating without two very valuable members of its crew. We need Tom at the helm, and we need Methos in sickbay." Each man facing her was getting ready to open his mouth, but the Captain waved them both off, "I don't want to hear it. It is your fault. Do you think they would be hiding out if you two were speaking to them? I don't care what state your respective relationships are in. I want my crew on duty where they belong. I don't care if the two of you crawl on your knees begging their forgiveness or sing your hearts out over an open comm line." Chakotay couldn't keep his mouth shut any more, "Captain, you are assuming quite a bit here. You don't even know what's happened." "Chakotay, before you say another word and dig yourself deeper into the hole you're in, listen to me. They were on a planet for five months, alone, together, I am not an innocent schoolgirl. I know what your problem with them is. We picked them up and within two days, Tom falls totally apart. He is facing a change in his life that neither you nor I can comprehend. But what do you do? You give him a difficult time over finding someone to love and be with when he thought he'd be on that planet forever. You do know he hasn't left his quarters except to go to the holodeck for three weeks? Both of them are ordering a lot of alcohol and very little food from the replicator. Now, I want my senior pilot back. He's avoiding you Chakotay, as much as anyone else. If I read Mr. Paris' actions correctly, he's feeling guilty, and your not talking to him is making it worse. As I said, I don't care if you two don't speak except for when your on duty or if you get married tomorrow. Get him out of those quarters and back into his life. Period. End Of Story. Understood?" Chakotay said the only thing he could, "Yes Captain." Both men stood to leave, but the Captain wasn't through. "Sit. I don't recall the word dismissed leaving my lips." She had that 'I'm going to kick some ass' look on her face that Chakotay loved to see whenever they met up with hostile Delta Quadrant natives but he wasn't exactly loving that look right now. "You," the Captain said, pointing her index finger at a very contrite looking Duncan MacLeod, "Are old enough to know better. Methos found out what happened at his trial. Yes, I know none of us wants to get into it again, but he has to live with it. Not you, not me, and not you Chakotay. Now, I am not going to assume to know what happened between the two of you. All I know is you have had this information for four hundred years. I can't even imagine four hundred years Duncan. I would think you would be past it by now. I need that man in my sickbay and I want him there ASAP. Do whatever you have to. He sent me some diaries of his last night and from my readings I can figure out the man really doesn't care what any of us think about him, no that's not true, he cares. But he wouldn't go into hiding over us. You are the one he's worried about, now do something about it." She looked at both men who seemed a little stunned. When neither of them made a move, she decided it was time to let them go. "Chakotay, I really don't like getting involved with members' of my crews personal lives. That's the First Officer's job, but since the first officer doesn't seem willing or able to do his job, I had to step in. I hope both of you realize just how serious I am. Dismissed." Both men scrambled out of their chairs and if Kathryn weren't so stressed about what she just had to do, she would be laughing at the sight of them. She replicated herself another cup of coffee and settled back into her chair sighing to herself, "Kathryn you haven't lost your touch". She silently thanked Admiral Owen Paris for his tutelage in dressing down the troops and went back to her reports. --- Duncan and Chakotay couldn't look at each other as they left the Captain's office. They could finally speak in the turbolift on the way to their own duty assignments, "Chakotay, I haven't had my ears verbally boxed like that in three centuries. I always wondered how this ship survived its first four years out here. With that woman as Captain, its no wonder." "Duncan, I don't think we should tell her were already ready to grovel, let's let her think she made us do it. Are you working on the holodeck tonight? Do you want me to help you? We can have dinner there." "Sounds good. Chakotay?" "Yes?" "Remind me to keep my nose clean OK? I don't think I ever want to face her ire again." "Don't worry, you'll be facing me if anything else happens, remember that Mac." Chakotay left Duncan in the turbolift shooting him a grin as he left. Duncan wasn't sure, but he thought the man was flirting with him. Time enough to think about that later, after they each had their wayward men back. It was an interesting possibility if they all worked everything out. He decided to forget about everything for a little while, he had a combat class to teach in ten minutes. The crew was good, but he would make them better. God help any aliens that tried to board Voyager, they wouldn't stand a chance in a fair fight against this crew. --- Chakotay was sitting in his office one deck below the bridge when the red alerts went off. He was caught totally by surprise. Voyager hadn't seen any other ships in over a month. There were plenty of solar systems and planets but none of the civilizations were warp capable yet. He hurried the one deck to the bridge but when he got to the turbolift he couldn't get one to come. Damned things must be down. He felt another barrage of weapons fire rock Voyager and swore as he pulled himself into the access shaft that would take him to the bridge. When he made it to the bridge there was smoke in the air and he could barely make out the figures in the room. Ensign Kim was at his station calling out reports on the attacking ships, Batehart was at the con, and Tuvok was at his station. Chakotay didn't see the Captain anywhere. Chakotay took over Command of the bridge allowing Tuvok to concentrate on his tactical duties. Chakotay was shouting orders to Batehart based on Harry's readings, but the man was not Tom Paris. He did the best he could, but he didn't have the intuitive skill Tom did. It seemed to take forever to Chakotay for the man to respond to his commands and then enter them into helm control. Voyager was taking heavy damage and Chakotay almost pushed Batehart away from the con and piloted Voyager himself, but regulations made him stay in his position. Where the Hell was the Captain. Harry reported the loss of shields for an instant and the bridge immediately filled with aliens. They were armed with weapons similar to phasers and a firefight broke out on the bridge. Tuvok was able to phaser two of them while still firing at the attacking ships and Chakotay managed to knock one down, but Harry and Batehart had both been hit. Chakotay jumped to the con and began piloting Voyager away from the battle. Tuvok managed to get in a deadly shot and one of the two attacking ships exploded into a zillion pieces scattering into the surrounding space. One down one to go. The warp core was still online and Chakotay ordered maximum warp. The remaining ship couldn't or wouldn't pursue and Voyager made her escape. "Tuvok! Report, how many invaders on board?" "Twenty five Commander, in addition to the five we have already neutralized on the bridge. Security teams converging on them now." "Sickbay, emergency medical beamout from the bridge, lock on to Kim and Batehart, energize." As the two injured crewmembers were beamed away, Chakotay thought of the Captain again. He ran to her ready room and couldn't get the door open. He managed it eventually and found her on the floor with pieces of the bulkhead on top of her. He called for an emergency beamout for her as well, but knew he couldn't go to sickbay with her. There were still five unconscious aliens on the bridge he needed to deal with. "Shit!" the Commander barked as he re-entered the bridge, "Tuvok, where is the rest of the alien boarding party?" "Commander, they are concentrated in the crew quarter section on decks 2-6. They will be neutralized soon." Chakotay immediately wanted to hunt them down himself but knew he couldn't leave the bridge. Tom and Methos were on deck three, right in the middle of the boarding party. He couldn't com them to find out what was going on. Rationally he knew they were two of the relatively safest members of the crew, but he wanted to know they were all right anyway. --- Since the attack was occurring in the middle of the afternoon, Tom and Methos were sleeping when the first shots from the attackers rocked Voyager. Tom was up first and Methos soon followed. The room was dark, the only lights coming from the red alert beacons flashing in their quarters. Methos grabbed his sword and a phaser and headed out the door yelling "Sickbay" as he exited. Tom followed. Sickbay would be where both of them were needed. Tom ached to go to the bridge, but knew since he hadn't flown in awhile, he probably wouldn't be welcome. He knew the middle of a battle was not the place for him to jump back into the con. As they exited their quarters, both men still half dressed, they ran right into the attacking aliens. Tom was livid, "Not my ship" he yelled at them before he began firing his phaser. The Delaneys who had the quarters next to Tom's were coming out of their door when Tom saw Methos shove them back into their rooms. "Stay in there!" he shouted, "we've got it." Of course they didn't know Tom and Methos were immortal and assumed the man was telling them what to do because they were women. They weren't about to let him get away with that. They came back out of their quarters armed with phasers, shooting at the aliens. Tom and Methos had already dispatched four of the ten invaders, but two against ten, again, was not good odds. Tom was hit first, taking out the largest of the alien landing party as he went down. Methos managed to shoot two more before he too was hit. Methos took a full energy burst to the leg and fell to the deck. Jenny Delaney managed to shoot one of the invaders and Megan got the last two. The two sisters each rushed to one of the fallen men to try to get them to sickbay, but Methos was already on his feet. He didn't want Megan to see his leg so waved her off, claiming a flesh wound. Tom was not so lucky, he had been hit in the chest and was dead. Methos tried to get to him before Jenny could, but he didn't. Jenny sat on the floor holding Tom's head in her hands. They had been casual sexual partners for the first three years of their journey until Tom had decided he didn't do casual anymore but she still cared for the man. She didn't believe he was dead. He couldn't be! Methos was suddenly standing above her, "Come on help me get him inside, he'll be fine." Jenny looked up at Methos who was standing on both legs like he hadn't been hit from a full energy burst fifteen minutes before. "He's dead Methos." Methos inwardly cringed, Paris he thought, you have much more talent in the melodrama department than I do. To Jenny he only said, "No, he's just stunned, he'll be fine. Can you two handle this mess? Security should be here soon." "Methos, he is not stunned, he's dead." Jenny was adamant, and angry. The whole ship knew the two of them had left their lovers to live together and she had heard the rumors about Methos' trial. How could he be so crass when his lover was dead! Tom started moving as the two were arguing over his dead body. He was starting to revive a little faster each time he died. This time it only took half an hour. Methos looked at the Delaney sisters with an 'I told you so' grin and dragged Tom to his feet, "Come on we still have to get to sickbay. You're fine, you were just stunned." He said for the benefit of the Delaneys. Methos dragged Tom to the turbolift, but it wasn't working. They were going to have to crawl through Jefferies tubes to get to sickbay. They were both still armed with blades and phasers and were in no mood to run across any other boarding parties. If they did, the meeting would be short. They made it to sickbay unmolested and were met with pandemonium. The corridors outside of sickbay were filled with the less seriously injured and the interior of the sickbay was packed with the severely injured. None of the other medical assistants had managed to crawl to sickbay yet and the doctor was swamped. He was attending to Harry and Batehart simultaneously and the Captain was laying on a biobed with no one attending her. Tom hurried to her side while Methos tried to triage the other eight people in the sickbay. The Captain was seriously hurt and would be better served by Methos, so Tom motioned for him to trade places. If the doctor was treating Harry and Batehart first, they must be critical. Tom couldn't think about his friends, he had to concentrate on the other injured. He rated their conditions and started on the most severely injured. Anyone whose injuries were not life threatening would just have to wait. Methos was operating on the Captain and he didn't have any help, the Doctor was still trying to save two men at once. He managed to stop her internal bleeding almost immediately and began to work on her head wound. He stabilized her and Tom brought him the next of the most severely injured. They worked as a team for three hours, at last clearing the injuries out of the corridors and sickbay. All but the five most critical patients had been sent back to their quarters to recuperate. Tom could finally check on his friends. He checked on Harry first, but he was still unconscious. He brushed a lock out of his hair and moved on to the Captain. She was awake and had been for the past hour. She had watched the two reclusive men take charge of sickbay and do a better job than could have been expected of them. Tom made it to her side as soon as he saw that her eyes were open. "Hi Captain, how are you feeling?" "Like a bulkhead fell on me. How's Harry? How many casualties did we have?" "Twenty seven injured, no deaths. You, Harry, and Batehart were the most severely injured, and you'll all be fine with some rest. Methos operated on you and the Doctor saved Harry and Batehart" "Tom, why is your shirt burnt and full of blood?" "Uhhmmmm, I sorta got shot. I'm fine though see?" He spun around for her so she could see he was indeed fine. It didn't work. "Tom, go talk to the Doctor and send Methos over here please." "But Captain, I'm fine." Tom whined. "Lt. Paris, I know you have been out of the command structure for awhile, but I am still the Captain, even if I am flat on my back." Tom gave her a disheartened "yes Mam'm" and did as he was told. Methos answered her summons immediately. "Hi Captain, how's the head?" "Methos, Tom tells me I have you to thank for my life." "Captain, I wouldn't go quite that far. If your life really were in immediate danger, the Doctor would have moved you to the front of the line." "Methos stop being self-depreciative. I know what you did. Does this mean you're ready to rejoin the living?" "I've been ready for awhile now, I'm just trying to bring a stubborn child with me." "Methos, what happened to Tom today? He looks like he was shot." "We both were, he died, I only got hit in the leg." "He didn't tell me." "He doesn't want you to worry. The silly boy will take the weight of the galaxy onto his shoulders but gets upset if anyone else worries." Methos turned to leave thinking the Captain knew all she needed to and he wasn't sure if he was still persona non-grata or not. She grabbed his arm before he could go and gently held him there until he turned around. "Methos, I want to thank you for sharing your diaries with me. They're special and I appreciate it. You've led an interesting life." "Only for about half of it Captain, the rest was spent blending into the woodwork. I rather enjoy living that way more. Oh Shit!.. sorry Captain." "What is it Methos?" "The Delaney sisters saw me heal and Tom revive. It could set him back." "I'll take care of it Methos. You just keep doing what you're doing. Are you ready to go back to part time shifts in sickbay? You seem ready to me." "Yes Captain, I am. how about full days starting tomorrow and on call whenever you need me?" "That's fine Methos, could you send Tom over when he's through checking on Harry?" "Sure. You rest now, I'll be back in a little while." Methos left the Captain and went to where Tom was talking to Harry, catching the last bit of the conversation, "..saved by the Delaney sisters, then they saw the two resident freaks heal, guess the secret's out, I knew it couldn't last." Methos was surprised Tom didn't sound upset. He stood behind him, tapping him to move aside and let him check on Harry. Tom continued talking so Methos figured it wasn't a private conversation. "Harry I'm sorry I got you hurt today. I should have been at the con, we wouldn't even have taken one hit. Nothing against Batehart, but he isn't even close to the best pilot on board. Will you forgive me?" "Tom, it wasn't your fault, so you don't need to be forgiven. However, you do need to grovel to me for shutting me out for the past month. You can start by fluffing my pillow and getting me a drink." Tom gave his friend a mock salute and followed his orders. As soon as he was through beginning his patching up with Harry, Methos sent him over to the Captain. He wasn't quite so thrilled to have to face the woman he let down. "Captain? You wanted to see me again?" "Tom, I want you out of here. Methos told me what happened and you must be exhausted." "No Captain, I worked through it, I'm fine now. I don't have to be up anytime tomorrow anyway, I'll just sleep in." "I don't think so. You have bridge duty from 1000 until 1500 tomorrow. I'll tell Chakotay." Tom's mouth was hanging open, surprised at the order form his Captain. "But Captain, I haven't been on the bridge in almost six months! We're in hostile territory!" "Lt. Paris, I've been monitoring your nightly flying marathons, if you don't trust yourself, trust my judgment. Now go and get some rest." "Yes Mam'm." Tom stopped on his way out to tell Methos he was leaving. Methos told him not to wait up, he would spend the night with the last of the patients. --- Tom couldn't sleep, Methos wasn't there and he would have to face Chakotay the next day. Damn! He didn't know if he could, but then he re-ran the day's events through his head, he could make it through seven hours on the bridge! He was ready. Now, about Chakotay. He could face him too, he knew how he felt he just hoped the big man felt the same way. But Chakotay hadn't tried to contact him once! He consoled himself with the knowledge the Commander was well aware he wasn't accepting any visitors or communications. By the time he fell asleep he had convinced himself that was the reason why he hadn't heard from the Commander in the past 3 weeks. --- Tom showed up for his bridge shift fifteen minutes early and was surprised the only familiar face on the bridge was the Captain. Davis was at Harry's station, Ayala was at Tuvok's and the Commander was no where to be seen. Tom didn't know it but the Captain had assigned Chakotay to cleanup duty in engineering with MacLeod. His first bridge shift flew by and he was surprised at how easy it was. No one mentioned his absence or his abrupt reappearance. The Captain was again running interference for him without his knowledge. --- As Tom was leaving the bridge, he got a hail from MacLeod asking him to meet him in the holodeck that evening. Tom checked with Methos to find out what his dinner plans would be and when he found out his friend was staying in sickbay again, he agreed to help MacLeod. He wondered where Chakotay was and stopped himself from running a location check. He would help Methos and Duncan and worry about his own relationship later. When he arrived back at his quarters, Methos was already in bed, but not asleep. He climbed into bed and kissed Methos on the forehead, "How did your day go?" "Really well, we kicked out the last of the patients this evening. How was the bridge?" "Surprisingly smooth actually. Is Harry OK?" "He's fine, he'll be off duty for a week, but you can visit him anytime you want to." Tom's scheming portion of his brain was in overdrive.....a week, that should be just enough time to finish Duncan's program. He could get Harry to cover for him. He was particularly pleased with himself as he fell asleep that night. It was nice to sleep with another person even if it wasn't Chakotay. He had gotten used to sharing his bed and felt a little twang of fear that Methos would be gone soon if Mac's plan worked. Oh, well, he'd been lonely before and he would be that way again, he would just have to deal with it. --- The week passed with Tom again working normal shifts on the bridge. Chakotay was assigned to Gamma shift and never came on the bridge until after Tom left. He felt like the Commander was avoiding him and he was right. Chakotay was working on a plan, but it would take some time to implement. Tom had been spending every evening working with Mac on Methos' surprise, Tom told Methos he was visiting Harry, and he was, just not all night. Harry and B'Elanna had grown close while they were plotting ways to get Tom out of his room. B'Elanna sat with Harry while he was recovering and covered for Tom. But, there was no need to cover, Methos wasn't a snooper. He didn't have to be, he could read Tom like an open book. It really wasn't too hard once you got to know the man. Methos was doing some plotting of his own. While Tom was with Mac, Methos was with Chakotay. Methos had been shocked the day after the attack when the Commander had come looking for him. He wasn't sure what he wanted and was surprised that Chakotay had come to him for advice. Methos knew what Tom needed and didn't hesitate to share the knowledge with Chakotay. Their own plan was almost ready for implementation. What Tom and Methos didn't know was that the two other men planned to launch their plots simultaneously. --- They sprung into action the next morning. Chakotay had asked the Captain for the day off for all four of them. He let her pick the day and as soon as the repairs were effected and the captive aliens dropped off on the closest outpost, she picked the day. She was quite pleased with herself as Chakotay and Duncan outlined their plans to her. She didn't think she had time to spend on the romantic quadrangle going on, but she was thrilled that her two personal reclamation projects might actually be happy again. She now considered Methos to be her special project as well as Tom. She had been reading his diaries concerning Lord Byron and the Shellys. Methos had given her the unabridged version and she could picture him wondering what her reaction would be. Sometimes the man really was too much. She couldn't get over the fact that Methos was the inspiration for Mary Shelly's Frankenstein. The man was way too good looking to have been the template for that monster. She went back to reading the of Methos' escapades with the sensuous poet and ordered the two plotting men to fill her in at the end of the day. She told them with a straight face that she didn't want to know the details, just whether the plan worked or not. OK, so she might have wanted to known the details, but she wasn't about to tell them that. Chakotay was the first to implement his plan. Duncan needed Methos alone for his so Chakotay's involved getting Tom out of his quarters. --- Tom was sitting at his table eating breakfast when the vase with the perfect yellow rose beamed into his room. All the thorns had been removed and there was a note tied to the vase. It was in Chakotay's hand and it said 'Follow the clues, your next gift is on deck five. Please?' Chakotay knew Tom well enough to know he couldn't resist and he couldn't. He plucked the rose out of the crystal vase and brought it with him. He was a little nervous as he headed towards deck five. He had wanted to talk to Chakotay for a week now and it had seemed like the big man was avoiding him. If he needed to play a game to see him, he would. Methos impending reconciliation with Mac was scaring him. The two men he loved were going to be out of his reach and he would be alone again after enjoying the love of two men for almost nine months. He didn't think he could take it if that happened. He approached deck five with trepidation, would Chakotay be there? He was standing outside the turbolift when he saw the shimmering of a transporter beam a few yards away. Chakotay must be doing location checks to figure out where Tom was and exactly when he arrived there. Tom was next to his gift before the transported item had fully arrived. It was a bottle of wine. Very good wine that Tom recognized as having come from the Captain's private reserve. It was about the only alcohol left on Voyager. Chakotay must have given up quite a bit to get his hands on it. Tom was beginning to enjoy this game. The note said go to the Airponics bay next and Tom hurried on his way, eagerly anticipating his next gift. Chakotay wasn't mad at him anymore!! He clutched his gifts and couldn't believe Chakotay was being so nice, he didn't deserve it, but he would let Chakotay know just how much he appreciated it. --- Methos watched Tom leave and couldn't help the little smile that took over his features. Tom was almost as romantic as Duncan. It would work on him. He was cleaning their quarters, the two of them took turns. They were used to having someone else pick up after them, but in the past month they got sick of living under piles of things and began to keep house. Duncan would be surprised, Methos mused. If he ever did move back in with Duncan he wouldn't 't let him know that he actually did know how to pick up after himself. He would let Duncan take care of him in that respect. It was, he told himself, the least he could do. He was thinking about Duncan when the door chimed. He went to answer it but there was no one there. He looked down and there was a vid chip on the floor. He hadn't felt any presence so he knew Duncan hadn't left it. His curiosity was piqued so he stopped what he was doing and inserted the chip. Duncan was on his screen real as he could be. Methos hadn't seen the man in a month, but he hadn't changed. Gods how he missed his Highlander. Duncan began speaking and Methos was a little worried about what he would say. He didn't have to wait very long. He heard the first few notes of a song and then the music paused and Duncan began speaking, "Methos, I have missed you so much. I was going through your things just to feel as if you were still here and I came across this song. The music rose again and Duncan fell into the background. The voice of Kurt Cobain could be heard coming through the speakers, the words were familiar to Methos as was the voice. The lyrics started and Mac hummed along, "What Else Should I Be? All Apologies........." As the song went on Mac would sing with the music, stressing the words, "Everything's My Fault......Choking On the Ashes Of A Memory..." He was practically yelling with the chorus of "All Alone is All We Are..." Methos was almost crying. Mac was singing to him, Mac was a horrible singer, so he never did it. Duncan didn't like to do the very few things he wasn't good at, Methos was touched. . As the chorus of "All Alone Is All We Are" faded out into the background Mac was again talking into the screen. "Methos, if 'ya did no hear the pain in me from that version, I have found another, maybe you can hear my sorrow in this one." Once again the same song came on this time song in the melodious and haunting voice of Sinead O'Connor. By the end of the song, Mac was on his knees begging to the crying man over the vid. "Methos, I am invitin 'ya ta holodeck 2 at 600, will 'ya come man? I have something for yew." Methos was stunned, how could Duncan think he wouldn't meet him after that display. All Apologies indeed. He would be there ready to agree to anything Duncan wanted, and then some. --- When Tom arrived in the Airponics bay he was eagerly anticipating his next gift. He didn't have to wait very long. Within a minute of his arrival a small stuffed Teddy Bear wearing the uniform of his favorite Parises Squares team appeared on top of a bed of flowers. Tom plucked it up and hugged it to himself. What in the world was Chakotay up to? A teddy bear? He hadn't had one since he was a child. He surprised himself by loving it immediately. Well, he would have someone to sleep with after all. He took the small note that had been pinned to the bear's chest and read it. It only said 'Mess Hall, as quickly as you can. I'll be waiting for you.' Tom, of course, ran to the mess hall. There was a sign on the door that said 'reserved' and the lights were low. He walked in and the Commander was sitting at a table in the middle of the room. It was between breakfast and lunch, not exactly the time for a romantic meal, but Tom was touched anyway. He hesitantly approached the table the Commander was sitting at and the big man was out of his chair, pulling out Tom's seat for him. There were balloons tied to the two empty chairs and it was a touch Tom loved. What was Chakotay doing? "Tom, honey, I've been an ass." Tom stared at him waiting for the rest, but he didn't say another word. Tom needed to talk too, "Chakotay, I'm the one who should be apologizing. I never should have walked out on you. I'm sorry." "Let's apologize to each other for the next few hours, OK? Will that make us both feel better?" Tom couldn't help but laugh, the Commander did have a point, "Chak, I really mean it. I'm sorry for everything I've said and done. I don't understand how you can stand to look at me." "Tom, you're wrong, I'm sorry. I knew how you were feeling, but I was too pigheaded to accept it. Remember when I said I'd be there for you whenever you doubted yourself? Well, I failed you. I don't know if you'll ever forgive me, but I'd like to make it up to you. Would you consider dating me?" "Dating you? You mean like courting?" "Exactly. We could start with a picnic right now. I have the holodeck for a couple of hours. Would you join me?" "Of course Chak. Thanks for all the gifts, especially teddy." "I didn't know if you'd like that one or not, I'm glad you do." Chakotay got up and pulled Tom's chair out for him, helped him gather his presents, clasped his free hand and walked him to the holodeck. Tom was in shock, this was not at all what he had been suspecting. He could see Methos' hand in this and he needed to thank the man. He just hoped Methos' surprise was going to be as good as his own was. --- Methos was right on time for his meeting with Duncan. In fact he was at the holodeck five minutes early. He waited outside until the appointed time and Duncan opened the door for him. He tried to look around Duncan's body, but couldn't see anything. Instead he looked at Duncan's body. He was wearing a pair of shorts and a white, almost see through, button down linen shirt. He looked delicious. Methos couldn't believe he had deliberately stayed away from the man for a month. He had been kept from him for almost five months and then when he could be with him again, he let his own pride and anger get in the way of their relationship. He felt foolish all of a sudden and only wanted to make up with his Highlander. MacLeod was thinking almost exactly the same thing. Methos was here, his Methos, the man he had been in lust, if not love, with since the day they first laid eyes on each other. The love came later and it has lasted four hundred years. Lord, Duncan loved this man with all his heart. If he tried to figure it out, he couldn't have. Actually he had tried and still didn't know. All he knew was he needed this man warts and all. The two of them stood staring at each other in the entranceway to the holodeck for a moment. Methos was the first able to speak, "What have you cooked up Duncan?" Duncan was happy, at least it was Duncan and not MacLeod. He was also nervous. Would Methos appreciate the gesture or would he only be reminded of his trial. He was about to find out. Mac hesitantly took Methos hand and whispered to him, "Methos close your eyes, I'll lead you." Methos did as he was told and was led into the holodeck. He could feel the ground uneven under his feet and wondered where they were. Seacouver? Paris? Mac's Island? He kept wondering until Mac stopped walking and told him to open his eyes. Methos didn't know where they were. There was a strip of beach in the shadow of a large mountain. He could make out a tiny village in the distance. His gaze was drawn to the beach and he saw a group of children playing in the water. There were four girls and three boys, all dark haired and light skinned. He watched them play a splashing game with the smallest of the boys as the instigator. He managed to evade the larger girl and dove under the water like a little fish. Methos still didn't know where he was. He saw a woman come from the village and call to the children. Methos looked at Mac, comprehension dawning. Mac saw Methos turn to him out of the corner of his eye. He had been enthralled with the scene he had spent so much time on, he hoped Methos would like it. "Mac," Methos was whispering, "are we where I think we are? Is one of those children me?" "Yes, Methos, the little imp splashing everyone is you. And that," Mac pointed at the woman, "is ye ma." Mac let the silence stretch as Methos stood looking at the boy he had been and the family he had forgotten. Mac did this for him. He couldn't find the words to tell Mac what he felt. He fell to the ground sobbing and Mac got worried. "Methos, shhh, it's OK, we can stop the program if you'd like, I only wanted to show this to you because I know ya dinna remember it. It's all right, we'll stop it now." Methos raised his tear streaked face to his love, his eyes were shining and his nose was red, "MacLeod, don't you dare turn it off," but then he started whispering again so that Mac could barely hear him. "Thank you Duncan, I don't know what to say... Thank You." "Then don't say anything, there's a blanket over here, come watch." Mac led his stunned lover to the picnic area he had set up and sat him down. He handed him a beer from the old fashioned ice chest he had replicated and joined him on the blanket. "I didn't make the program interactive, but I can if you would like me to. Actually, Tom will. He helped me make this for you." "I am going to have to reward the child, after I reward you that is. Duncan, you don't know what this means to me. You were there? With Q and the tribunal? This is real?" "Yes Methos, it is. We can stay here as long as you'd like, I made dinner for us and we have the holodeck until midnight." "I don't deserve this Duncan. I hurt you, and I did it deliberately." Methos almost began crying again, but these were not tears of happiness. "Methos, we both said things we regret, can we just put it behind us? I know why you said the things you did now. I was too blind to see it then and stop myself before we escalated to full out warfare. Let's shoulder the blame equally, OK love?" "OK." "Come here," Duncan had his arms out and Methos moved into his embrace. Duncan kissed him gently and then turned him around so he could watch his family. He held him in his arms all day, not letting him go when they ate dinner. Methos even let him feed him. The day was turning out very well. His plan wasn't over yet though. After dinner, Mac again turned him around to watch the children playing. He hadn't actually spent this much time there, but he had programmed enough differences into the program for it to run for twelve hours without repeating itself. He was quite proud of his masterpiece. Methos was falling asleep in his arms and he couldn't help but think that this is the way it should be. The two of them together, where and when didn't matter. They were each other's constant in an ever changing universe. Methos spoke as if still sleeping, "Mac, I was a brat even then wasn't I? It kind of makes me think. I would be the way I am no matter what my life was like. Kind of like you would be Duncan MacLeod Of The Clan MacLeod no matter where you were raised." When Duncan raised an eyebrow at the upturned face looking at him from between his arms, Methos had to clarify, "See, that's just what I mean. I wasn't being literal, of course your name would be different, but you would still be you. And I Love You." "Ahhh, Methos, I was afraid I would never hear those words from your mouth again. Our time's about to run out, we have to go." Duncan got up and began folding their blanket and Methos was gathering their dinner supplies thinking about how much fun the next few hours would be. He didn't know he hadn't seen the rest of Mac's strategy yet. Mac was taking Chakotay's lead and not about to let them jump back into bed together after everything they had been through. They needed to talk some more, regain their trust for one another.. He didn't know if he was going to be able to implement that phase of the plan when he saw Methos' graceful, beautiful, body bending over to pick up their supplies. Everytime the man reached and stretched those long, ever enticing limbs of his, Mac had to stop himself from pouncing on the man right there and then. He recited his Latin verbs to get hold of himself and vowed to show some restraint. He followed Methos out of the holodeck and onto the turbolift, calling for Tom's deck as soon as they entered the lift. Methos gave him a strange look and asked, "Where are we going?" "Methos, I'm walking you home. It is the proper thing to do after a date is it not?" "No, it's not. The proper thing to do after a date is to go and fuck each others brains out." Methos was in the Highlander's arms before MacLeod knew what hit him. The tongue in his mouth came as quite a surprise also. He pulled Methos in closer with hands wrapped around the oldest man's buttocks, but the turbolift came to a halt and announced their destination. Mac was able to pull himself away, barely, and stepped out of the turbolift. He walked the short distance to Methos' and Tom's quarters and pulled him in for another kiss. "I'll see you at breakfast Methos, can we have another date tomorrow night?" "Mac, you don't need to woo me, I'm yours if you'll have me." "Methos, I know that, I just think we should move slowly. We still have a lot to talk about." "I'd rather fuck." "Somehow I knew you would say that. We will, we will, just let's take it slow." Mac couldn't believe the restraint he was showing, but he knew it was for the best. They had many issues to get over and it would take time. He just hoped it wouldn't take too much time. He managed to untangle himself from the man glued to him and hurried down the corridor to the turbolift. As the doors closed on him, the last thing Methos saw was the huge grin spreading across Mac's features. Methos sighed and entered his quarters. Tom had been sitting on the couch, but jumped to his feet as soon as Methos entered, "Well? What happened?" "You know very well what happened. Thank you Tom." "I want to thank you for helping Chakotay, too. I saw your hand in his plans. I am going to kill you for telling him we should wait before sleeping together again though. I thought I was going to explode when he said he wanted to court me and then walked me home. I almost got him to come in, but no such luck." "I didn't come up with that part of their plan Tom, Duncan is doing the same thing. I almost had him in the turbolift, but we got here too soon. Damn! I need a cold shower." "Lucky you, cold showers don't work for me remember?" "What does? I have a feeling you'll be needing something at least once a day." "Mr. Hand. Of course warm showers and Mr. Hand always work better together." Tom ducked as the towel flew out of the bathroom and at his head. He managed to evade the badly aimed, harmless projectile, but fell onto the couch laughing. "Hey, you asked! I am going to make Chakotay pay for making me wait. He's going to be spending a lot of time with his own Mr. hand. I wonder how long do you think he'll hold out?" "I'll make a wager with you. A weeks worth of rations that I get Mac before you get Chakotay." "Done, but Methos, I have to warn you, I'm not pulling any punches on this one. He's mine and I've waited long enough. It won't take me more than three days to get him. Even if I have to talk to do it." "Oh no! The awful T-word. Keep the towel, you're going to need it, I'm showering." Tom started rolling around on the couch, not able to contain his laughter. Chakotay still loved him! What a day! Now, how to get the big man back in his bed? Tom hadn't had sex with anyone but Mr. Hand for over a month and he was determined to get some. He used the towel Methos had thrown him and then went to bed. --- The next week was passed with all four men working their shifts and then meeting for dinner and dates. MacLeod and Chakotay had decided to double team the two frustrated men. The problem was they were just as frustrated. The night in Sandrine's was almost the final straw for MacLeod, Methos had sat in his lap, grinding his butt into Mac's very prominent erection the whole evening. He watched Tom tease Chakotay all night as well, and knew their pact wouldn't last long. Mac had to admit to himself that when Tom leaned over the pool table to make a shot and deliberately lifted his ass in the air at Chakotay and gave a little wiggle before making his shot, his erection jumped in his trousers. Oh no, he wasn't going to make it much longer. Chakotay and Tom were being reminded why they fell in love in the first place and Chak couldn't help but wonder how he had stayed away from the man for so long. He needed him, of that he was sure. They had been able to talk and were no longer awkward in each other's company. Chakotay was going to have the man in his bed soon, he couldn't take much more of Tom's deliberate teasing. As he was thinking of the beautiful body that would be splayed open for him soon, the aforementioned body had plastered itself to his front. Tom was playing for keeps now. He rubbed his body against Chakotay's as he leaned over him to get his beer off the bar and as Chakotay went to wrap his arms around Tom, the man escaped his grasp. Tom had backed into Chakotay when he turned around to look at the other two men and ground his but into the poor Commander's groin. Chakotay though he would come right there, but he managed to get hold of himself. Damn, he would have that man and soon. Methos saw what was happening at the other end of the bar and decided it was time to go. He called to Tom in his best teasing tone, "Come on you little trollop, time to say goodnight." Methos knew he couldn't drag this out much longer, if he were forced to he would have MacLeod on the pool table with all of Sandrine's watching. He flushed and his blood quickened at the thought. He would leave now, or else. He wrapped his hands around Mac's head and pulled him in for a kiss, a crushing, probing, promising kiss. He wiggled his hips just a little for effect and jumped out of the lap he had been in all night. He walked over to Tom by the door, and left arm in arm with him but called back before they left, "Don't forget, the gymnasium 1100 hours for our sparring." Methos' new plan was to get sweaty and physical with Mac, if that didn't work, nothing would. Besides, his student needed the practice, he wasn't only thinking of himself and his frustrated libido. Tom and Methos spent an hour deciding what they would wear to the sparring match. It had to be comfortable, flexible, and most of all sexy. Tom donned a pair of black spandex long shorts and a sleeveless tank top. Methos had settled on loose fitting khaki shorts and a tight white T-shirt. Methos was ready first and asked, "How do I look?" "Good enough to eat, and if Mac doesn't I'm going to. How about me?" "Chakotay won't be able to keep his hands off you let's go, we're late again." They were late, but they were the first ones there. Chakotay and MacLeod knew them well enough that if the meeting was for 1100, they wouldn't have to be there until at least 1115. They too had dressed for the maximum effect and it wasn't lost on their soon to be once again lovers. They all warmed up together, Mac performing the Katas he had used for almost a millennia and Methos leading Tom in Tai Chi. Chakotay stretched himself, but was planning on watching most of the workout so didn't stretch too hard. He felt his blood begin to boil as the three attractive men in the room with him were executing their graceful, sensual warm-up routines. When they were through Mac and Methos faced each other, swords at the ready. Methos motioned for Tom right before the sparring was engaged, "Watch and learn, you're next." Tom and Chakotay settled in to watch the two older immortals square off. Tom made sure to sit close enough to Chakotay so they could feel the heat emanating from each other's bare legs, but weren't actually touching. He knew he would get what he wanted today. MacLeod and Methos squared off and began their mock combat. Both men were skilled with their swords, but had different fighting styles. Methos was all lithe quickness and handled his heavy broadsword as if it were made of light alloys. MacLeod was a picture of grace and flowing lines. He was stronger than Methos and almost as quick, but the old man had his tricks. In a move too fast for the observers to see, Methos had disarmed MacLeod and had the man on his knees. "Submit?" He drawled out in a sensual tone. "Always," Mac replied. Methos pulled him to his feet and walked over to where Tom and Chakotay were, grabbing a towel on the way. "You're turn Tom. And Tom, get your mind on the spar and out of your groin." Tom blushed furiously as he picked up his weapon and approached MacLeod. He looked him up and down, taking in the sweaty disheveled and oh so sexy man. Methos had been training him, but he knew he was no match for the Highlander yet. Methos had taught him other skills as well and he adjusted his shirt before the spar began. MacLeod took it easy on him at first, but when the younger man managed to get in a lucky jab, MacLeod became all business. "I see Methos has been teaching you well. But I'm afraid I have a few years of experience on you Tom." Tom ignored the man's teasing and continued his fight. When they paused for a moment he decided to get in on the act, "True Mac, but if I chose the weapons, we'd be facing off in shuttles and you wouldn't stand a chance. Of course your quickening would be lost, but I'd still be alive." "He's been teaching you more than swords I see." Methos had to join in from the sidelines, "Sorry Mac, I can't take credit for that one. He came with that mouth firmly in place. Maybe you can pin it on the Commander." Chakotay had been mesmerized by the spectacle in front of him. There was just something so sensual in the ancient art of swordfighting and he was lost in the pageantry. He heard the words and did have a comment though. "Sorry, can't take credit for that either, he's been that way for as long as I've known him." Tom feigned insult and went on the offensive in his battle with Mac. The highlander took him seriously and fought his best. Tom was disarmed and on the ground on his back just a few minutes after they had resumed their spar. MacLeod was standing over him, sword at the ready, waiting for him to submit when Tom reached into his waistband and pulled out a phaser. He didn't shoot Mac but said, "Bang. I win." MacLeod turned to Methos, irate. "What have you taught the boy Methos?" "Survival Mac survival. If he had to shoot someone after they had him on the ground I told him he shouldn't take their head, but get the hell out of there. It works for me." Tom was laughing on the floor, he couldn't help it. Methos told him what Mac's reaction would be to the strategy and he had been right on the mark. Tom stood up and retrieved his blade and plopped down on the floor next to Chakotay. "Well Chak? What did you think?" "I think you need to practice. Don't worry, you have years to get better, just don't get either of them mad at you, you wouldn't stand a chance." "Thanks Chakotay, nice to know you have confidence in my abilities." "No, honey, you're very good for your level, but they've been doing this for hundreds of years. Do me a favor and listen to your teacher, OK? Always carry your phaser too." Chakotay reached in and caught the sweaty man in his arms, "You look very primal right now. You're dripping sweat, your skin is flushed, and you're glowing. Want to come to my quarters with me?" Tom was stunned for a second, but jumped to his feet, pulling Chakotay with him. He was hurrying for the door when he remembered his sparring partners, "Uh... bye? Call me later Methos, much later." After the two other men had left Mac raised an eyebrow at Methos. Methos knew exactly what the Highlander was suggesting, and was all for it, "It's about damn time MacLeod, I can taste you just by looking at you. If we don't get out of here now, I'll take you right here." "I think I'll be taking you, let's go now." Mac grabbed Methos' arm and steered him out the door and down the corridor, he didn't trust himself enough not to take the man in the turbolift, so put some distance between them. He ran out the door and to their quarters with Methos right behind him. --- Duncan quickly led Methos into their quarters for the first time in many long weeks. He had thought about this moment for most of the time since he had thrown Methos out, and even more often since their chaste reconciliation. He opened his mouth to speak, but never got the words out. Methos had grabbed him by the T-shirt and flung him up against the wall. Duncan felt his mouth covered by Methos' and he surrendered readily to the passionate kiss. He could do nothing but part his legs when Methos thrust his own leg between Duncan's thighs. Duncan pressed down, rubbing his crotch against Methos' thigh, begging for more.. The Immortals stayed where they were for a few long minutes, until Methos released Duncan's mouth, "Not a word, MacLeod, do you hear me, not one bloody word." Duncan started to murmur his agreement with the old man's terms, but Methos stayed his words. "I don't want to hear anything that isn't a groan or a gasp come out of your mouth for the rest of the afternoon, am I making myself clear here, Highlander?" Duncan captured Methos' gaze then groaned "mmmmm, yesss" in reply. Satisfied, Methos pushed his sweaty Highland Warrior over to the bed. He released Duncan long enough to throw off his own clothing then attacked the younger man. In moments, Duncan was as naked as he. Methos reached up and grabbed two handfuls of the gorgeous dark wavy hair, damp with sweat from their workout. It was time for another workout. He pulled Duncan's head down and breathed deeply, his face buried in the Scot's hair. Gods, he had missed the way this man smelled. The mix of his toiletries and the more primal scent of the sweat of a man who had just had a hard workout, oh he loved it! Duncan smiled at the familiar sight of Methos breathing in his fragrance. He knew what his lover was feeling and, quite truthfully, he was feeling it as well. Tomorrow would be soon enough to deal with their lives, they had been making progress and Mac knew this was a step foreword and not back. Tonight he just wanted them to enjoy each other. And he had a very good idea of exactly what Methos needed to make that enjoyment complete. He needed to feel that Duncan wasn't afraid of hurting him, either physically or emotionally. MacLeod smiled to himself, this was going to be fun! Duncan grabbed Methos by his shoulders without warning and threw him onto the bed. He gave his partner no chance to realize what he was about to do before he landed on top of him. Duncan pressed Methos shoulders into the bed, roughly spreading his legs with his knees. He grabbed both of Methos' wrists with his right hand and raised them above their heads. Then he leaned into Methos' suddenly defenseless body and began to kiss the older man with all of the passion and fury that he could manage. It wasn't hard, MacLeod had been in a constant state of arousal for the past week thanks to Methos' sensual teasing and his own anticipation of just this event. "Gods yes, MacLeod," Methos moaned, he had been so sure that he would never see this side of his lover again, he only hoped that it wasn't a momentary aberration. "Come on, Duncan, come on" MacLeod took him at his word and pressed himself down his lover's body. He grabbed Methos' hard hot cock and ran his finger around the tip, gathering up the liquids there. He spread the moisture and began pumping it, trembling himself at the response he gained from Methos hard lean body. After a few minutes, he leaned over to the side of the bed searching for the lube he had hidden away. Methos voice interrupted his search, "Who cares, MacLeod, I don't. Just fucking do it! I've waited long enough, " MacLeod thought for a moment, then assented, yeah I can do that. He pressed two fingers to Methos' mouth and the lips parted, drawing them in, sucking them. When his fingers were slickened with his lover's saliva, Mac withdrew them and placed them against the opening to his lovers body. A hard push, and both fingers were inside the hot tight channel, pressing it apart, stretching it. Methos arched back against Duncan's hand, trying to press the invading fingers into himself as deeply as possible. "Now, MacLeod, now. What are you waiting for? Will you just bloody do it?" Methos' head thrashed back and forth on the bed. He hadn't needed sexual release like this in centuries, but right now, he was sure that he would die if he didn't feel Duncan's cock inside of him almost immediately. "Fuck me, Highlander, NOW!" And then he didn't have to wait anymore. Duncan had pressed into him with one long painful, wonderful thrust and Methos was sure that it hurt too much to stand and then it didn't hurt at all anymore, it was just wonderful. The burning sensation had given way almost instantly to the pleasant fullness of being possessed. Duncan didn't waste any time either. He immediately began pounding in and out of his ancient lover, seemingly determined to see if he could in fact, shove his cock all of the way up into Methos chest. Methos struggled for a moment to free one of his hands, so that he could attend to his weeping cock trapped between their bodies, but Mac wouldn't release his wrists. "Un huh, Methos, we're doing this my way. Hush and take it." If the old man had thought he was hot before, Duncan's words threatened to send him over the edge. MacLeod was determined to dominate him tonight and Methos was going to have to allow him it. And he couldn't have been happier or hotter as a result of the Scotsman's decision. Methos spared a thought of gratitude that their sex life seemed to be back to normal before all cognizant thought left him. The Highlander had released his wrists, but only so that he could push both of Methos' thighs nearly up to his chin. He bent him almost in half, then with the additional leverage, drove his cock into Methos until the older man was screaming with the pleasure of it all. Methos heard the sound of Duncan's balls slapping up against his ass, saw his Highlander straining out his passion. He reached one hand down to pump his cock in time with Mac's thrusts and with the other reached lower and wrapped his fingers around the base of Duncan's shaft where it was thrusting into his body. He began to squeeze in time with the thrusts and felt Duncan's muscles begin to tighten around and in him. Methos made one last effort to push his back even further down into the mattress, raising his hips even higher as he did so, then began to squeeze Mac's cock with his fingers and with his muscles. He heard the explosive groans from the man above him and allowed himself to begin to come to his own climax. As his cock began to spurt milky fluid onto both of them, the clenching of his muscles threw Duncan headlong in to his own orgasm. Both men collapsed onto each other and lay there, trying to regain control of their breathing and heart rates. When Methos could speak again, he looked up at Duncan and grinned. "Ten minutes, Highlander. No more." Methos smirked at the exhausted man on top of him. "Then, I get to be on top. Next time, too." Duncan raised his head from Methos chest and captured his mouth in a hard kiss, "Humph, Is that a challenge, Methos? It sure sounds like one to me." Methos kissed the Highlander back and replied, "Oh yeah, you bet it is, MacLeod, you bet it is." --- Chakotay followed Tom Paris into his quarters, still not quite sure of where he stood with this gorgeous complicated man. The week had allowed them to get used to each other again, but they had hurt each other so badly in the past few weeks. While Tom said that all was forgiven, and acted that way as well, Chakotay couldn't help but wonder. He was so desperate to make it up to him, perhaps he should begin by trying to show Tom exactly what he meant to him, what he did to him. "Tommy," he began, turning to face the blonde man, "I need to spend tonight showing you how much I've missed you, how much that I love you. Is that OK? I won't do anything that you don't want me to do, I just want to hold you, to make love to you." Chakotay's thoughts were arrested by the sight of his lover's face. Tom had tears streaming down his cheeks. "Shhh, Tommy, what did I say wrong? Shhhh" Chakotay soothed the distraught young Immortal. Tom started to shake his head, "Stop that Chak, everything that has happened has been my fault, stop being so damn nice to me. I can't stand it." Chakotay raised his hands to his lovers face. He placed his hands on either side of Tom's face. "Shhh," he continued, his fingers tracing the outline of Tom's lips. "Tom, I don't want to think about the past right now, but I do want you to be very sure of one thing. We were both at fault for what happened, but as far as I am concerned, none of the past matters at all. Please Tom, let it go. Forgive me the way that I have forgiven you and let's not let it disrupt our lives any more, OK?" Tom couldn't believe what he was hearing. After all that he had done, Chakotay was willing to forgive him, to love him. He now knew why the big man had wanted to wait. If Chakotay had said these same words only a week ago, Tom might not have believed him, "I don't deserve you, big guy, but for you, I would forget my own name." Chakotay laughed softly at the man he held, , "Don't do that, Lt., I'd never be able to chase you down for sick bay duty again" At that, Tom began to laugh quietly, then easier, more naturally. Soon he was holding his sides he was laughing so hard. Chakotay was so relieved to see Tom relaxing that he joined his lover in the mirth. Tom's laughter eased to a soft chuckle and he leaned in to study his lover's eyes. They were so soft, so caring. He leaned forward and kissed each eyelid. Then he began to kiss along Chakotay's brows, nibbling softly as he went. Chakotay put his arms around Tom and started running his hands up and down his spine. Tom shivered and arched into Chakotay's arms. Chakotay moaned and pushed his hips back against the groin that was pressing against his. "Spirits Tom, I have missed you so much." He would have continued, but the Lt. pressed his mouth to his. "Shut up, Chakotay, and kiss me" Chakotay complied and pressed his lips to Tom's, teasing his mouth open with his tongue. When he had gained access to Tom's mouth, he ran his tongue all around the inside, learning his secrets anew. Tom was delirious with the sensations that Chakotay was providing him. He had missed this man so very much. Methos had been a wonderful, very skilled lover, but he hadn't been the man that Tom Paris loved with all of his heart and soul. "Take me to bed, big guy" he demanded, walking them backwards towards the bed. Chakotay stopped when he felt his knees press up against his mattress. He drew Tom into an even more intense kiss and began pulling his shirt off. Tom broke their kiss for a moment and would have begun undressing, but Chakotay took his mouth back into their kiss. He pulled away for long enough to whisper, "Slow down, we have all night," then he recaptured his mouth. Tom was quickly going out of his mind and they had just begun to make love. Chill out, Tommy or you will embarrass yourself, he thought ruefully. It would not do at all to come before he was even undressed. That would call a halt to the proceedings far too soon....or maybe not. I _am_ Immortal now, Tom mused, with all of the benefits. He smiled to himself at the thought of introducing his lover to the comeback power of an Immortal lover. Tom writhed on the bed beneath Chakotay who had pinned him to the mattress. The older man was ecstatic at the effect he was having on his love. At times he had despaired of every being able to make love with Tom Paris again and he intended to make up for lost time. He resisted a moment when he felt Tom's hands pushing him away, but his lovers voice finally penetrated his awareness. "If you don't stop that Chak, we're gonna both be sorry, OK?" All too soon, they were both naked and in each others arms in the bed. Chakotay bent his head to Tom's chest, laving the nipples with his mouth and tongue. He suckled one then the other, then began to nibble his way down his sternum until he reached Tom's bellybutton. He swirled his tongue around it and then dipped his tongue in and out for a few moments. "You taste so good, you're dripping with sweat, I can't get enough of you Tom." When he felt Tom's hands pressing on his head and heard the blonde man murmuring, "Please, Chak, please" he lowered his head and took the hot red cock into his mouth. He teased his lips around the head, thrusting his tongue into the opening. He grabbed the base with one hand and raised it to his mouth. Tom almost exploded when he felt himself fully engulfed in his lovers mouth. This was what he had needed for so long. Nothing could compare with the feeling of being held, being loved by Chakotay. Tom revealed in the sensation for a few long endless minutes, then pushed his lovers head away from his throbbing groin. "Hang on a minute, Chak, or we're going to be in serious trouble here." Tom drew a few deep breaths, then pulled Chak up beside him on the bed. He brought him in for a long intense kiss, trying to convey with his mouth and tongue the depths of his emotions, his love. Chakotay pulled away reluctantly and reached to the nightstand for the lube. "I want to be inside you Tommy, I need you." Tom shivered with anticipation and began to roll over. "No, not that way, I want to see your face, to look into your eyes when you come" Tom drew in a deep shivering breath then lay back. "Oh yeah, I want that too, I want you." Chakotay began rubbing the oil into Tom's groin, smoothing it into his balls, then following the path the oil had taken to rub it around and into his lovers small tight opening. Tom pressed himself back onto Chakotay's fingers as far as he could.Chakotay stretched Tom. making sure that he would feel no pain from their lovemaking. Soon, Tom Paris was sure that he couldn't stand it any more. "That's enough, Chak, I can't wait any more. Please." Chakotay gently removed his fingers and placed the head of his cock at the entrance to Tom's body. He pressed in gently and held himself still until he felt his lover's muscles relax, accepting his invasion. When Tom had had a moment to catch his breath, Chakotay began a slow rhythmic motion in and out. Tom felt like he was on fire from head to toe. He could almost feel Chakotay's heart beating inside of himself. Nothing in his entire life had ever felt this good before. He reached around behind Chak and began to rub his lovers opening with his fingers. Chakotay could only moan and began to thrust harder into the man that he loved. "Yeah, that's it." Tom encouraged. Chakotay responded and was soon pumping in and out as hard as he was able to. He reached between their straining bodies and grasped Tom's cock, pumping it in his hand in time with his thrusts into the accepting man. Tom's hand joined his and together, fingers interlaced they pressed towards their completion. "God, Chak, I am going to come, right now. Hurry!" Tom was unable to hold out any longer and felt his orgasm rip up through his balls, burn along his spine and out onto his and Chakotay's bodies. Chakotay was so close and the sudden clenching of Tom's muscles sent him hurtling headlong over his own abyss. He was coming so hard, and it was lasting so long and he had missed this so.... "Welcome back, big guy" Tom teased. "I did it again, didn't I? Chakotay asked. "Oh yeah, you did definitely do it again. And I want you to do it again and again and.." Chakotay trapped the teasing mouth with his own. "You are impossible, Tom Paris" he chuckled. "Not for you, I'm not" Tom teased again. "Besides who else do you know that always makes you pass out during sex and is ready for the next round fifteen minutes later?" Chakotay looked up in a mild state of confusion. "What do you mean fifteen minutes? I won't be able to move for, oh I don't know, three or four days How come you've got so much stamina left?" Chakotay wasn't worried, just slightly puzzled. For all of Tom's enthusiasm and stamina in bed, this way going a little too far. Chakotay decided that he was being teased and went to roll over, but found his face captured by the young Lt. "Come're Chak and I'll tell you all about what it means to have a self- regenerating Immortal for a lover. Oh and don't worry, I'll just help myself to whatever, and when you feel up to it again, well, you can join me." --- Duncan saw Chakotay at breakfast the next day and was reminded of the day so many months ago when the man had had almost the same look on his face as he did now. The poor man was exhausted. The pre-immortal Tom Paris had worn the man out, what had the Immortal Tom Paris done to him? "Hi Mac." "You look a little ragged around the edges Chakotay." "You could have given me some warning you know." "Nah, you wouldn't have believed me. Where is he?" "He has the day off so he went back to his quarters. Methos?" "Same. I have to thank Tom for helping me. He really is a nice kid." "I have to thank Methos for helping me too. I think we should have a party for them, the last one was a disaster. This time, let's wait until we know they're ready." "Chakotay, red alert, here comes the Captain." Captain Janeway had spotted the two men as soon as she walked into the mess hall, from the looks of them, their plan had gone well. Both of them looked tired and she wondered what the other two looked like. She quickly served herself and hurried to their table, there was no way they were getting away from her. "Good morning, Chakotay, Duncan." Both man answered good morning in unison. Chakotay had to hand it to the Captain, she just sat looking at them. She wouldn't ask but she knew they would tell. Duncan let him off the hook by answering for the both of them, "You already had your doctor and pilot back Captain, but you can be sure they're staying now. In fact, I think they're ready for full duty shifts. Their time off has given them both too much energy." "Too much energy? Good. Chakotay, put them into the duty rotation immediately." the Captain didn't want to pry any further, she knew what she needed to know. Her two breakfast companions left her as soon as was polite and she settled into her seat picturing exactly what too much energy meant. --- Tom walked towards the holodeck, not knowing exactly what to expect. Chakotay had just told him to show up there and what to wear. He couldn't get any information out of anyone else either. Methos had received the same summons and Tom knew whatever they would be doing was going to be fun. The four men had spent the past three months getting to know each other all over again and becoming more and more secure in their respective relationships. Now, whenever they all had time off together they would spend it together. But they were also spending time individually with each other. If Methos couldn't make dinner, Mac would eat with Tom and Chakotay, if two of them were unable to get together, the other two would. Tom was finding it as easy to spend time alone with Duncan as it was to spend time with Chakotay and Methos. Duncan was helping Methos teach him to fight and the man was good. He didn't have as many tricky moves as Methos did, but he had just as many if not more of the more accepted moves. Chakotay was also getting to do things with Methos which had really surprised Tom. It seemed to him that Chakotay was making the duty roster just so he could spend time with the enigmatic old man. Tom couldn't believe the way Chakotay had accepted Methos and couldn't have been happier. They were all becoming even closer than they had been before the debacle with Q. He wondered what was in store for them tonight. He knew they all had the night off, which was rare enough in itself, but to have the holodeck on the same night? Holodeck one where Sandrine's or the resort usually ran every night was for the whole crew. He started thinking along the lines that this was a party and Dammit if he didn't see he was right as soon as the door opened. Chakotay had asked Tom to wear his tight fitting button down black jeans and his indigo silk shirt, but nothing else. Tom was game, so went along with Chakotay's wishes. He didn't know they were going to be in so public a place though. He spied Chakotay as soon as he walked in. Chak was wearing black jeans and a silk shirt too, but his was a deep maroon that set off his complexion. Sandrine's looked a little different to Tom as he walked up to Chakotay. That's it, the chairs and tables had been deleted leaving a huge dance floor. He made his way through the crowd and attacked Chakotay with a bear hug as soon as he was close enough, "Did you do this for me?" "Sure did. Mac helped. Your last party was such a disaster we planned one you would like. We went through you and Methos' musical collections to program the music and we had Harry help us re-program Sandrine's. Do you like it?" "Chakotay I love it!! Where's Mac, I need to thank him." "He and Methos aren't here yet. Do you want to dance with me?" "Yeah, but if I'm the better dancer, I'm leading." "I don't think you'll have to worry about that. Let's go." Methos and Duncan arrived at the party while Tom and Chakotay were still on the dance floor and Methos was just as pleased as Tom. The past months had been incredible. Only Tuvok still eyed him with suspicion every so often. The Captain had even grown comfortable with him again. He was so happy he thought he'd burst, or the walls would come tumbling down again. He couldn't help the stray thought. It wouldn't do to get too relaxed, he was already soft enough as it was. He pulled Duncan out onto the dance floor as soon as they walked in the door. MacLeod had dressed for the occasion in a suit reminiscent of the old style Armani casual suits of the early 21st century. Mac had managed to talk him into dressing up as well and Methos was wearing soft cotton trousers and a tailored green shirt. He was comfortable and he knew the flowing materials set off the lines of his body. He was going to be a tease and a flirt tonight and was looking forward to the experience. He was mentally filling out his dance card when he saw Chakotay and Tom across the room. He pulled Mac in their direction and everyone's thanks was given for the party. Chakotay threw himself into the booth Mac was relaxing in two hours later. Tom had kept him on the dance floor for over an hour, then was reluctantly pulled out of Chakotay's grip by than none other than the Captain. Chakotay was passed from partner to partner until he didn't think he could stand for another second. He saw Mac in the booth and knew he needed a break too. Tom and Methos were still dancing, as the guests of honor, they were in high demand. They didn't disappoint and were passed from one person to the next. They looked to be enjoying themselves so Chakotay didn't worry. He found himself worrying about Tom very little lately. Whenever he sensed the man needed to talk, he would be there for him and Tom would bring things up at his own pace. Chakotay had learned not to push the man and he would ask for help on his own. Trust, that's what it came down to and he had earned it from the unsure young man that owned his heart. Chakotay looked across the table at Duncan watching Methos and realized that two other Immortals men had wormed their way into his heart as well. Duncan got a small smile in the corner of his mouth as he watched the dance floor and Chakotay turned his attention to whomever Mac was staring at. Tom and Methos were dancing together for the first time that night. Chakotay was drawn into their rhythm as Mac had been. The two of them were gorgeous together and were dancing very close. Chakotay waited for the pang of jealousy and hurt he was expecting, but none came. Damn they looked good together! He couldn't tear his eyes off them as they swayed their hips in time to the music. The different planes and angles of Methos' body were clearly visible through his clothes as he shifted positions. The fabric he wore would cling to a different part of his frame each time he moved. Tom was gorgeous in his tight black jeans and silk. Chakotay loved the feel of silk on his skin and just watching Tom move, draped in the material, was making him hot. He noticed Duncan watching him and looked at the Scotsman. "Chakotay, they are gorgeous aren't they?" "You read my mind." "Wasn't too difficult. We were on the same wavelength. This may sound slightly strange to you Chakotay, but I was having visions of them naked in each other's arms." "When they first came back I had the same visions. I've gotten over my jealousy, you will too." "Chakotay, I'm not jealous, I'm turned on." "Ohh" Chakotay turned to watch the two men and could see what Mac meant. He let his mind wander and was soon enjoying the same visions Mac had. The song had changed and they were still dancing, bodies meeting on the crowded dance floor, sweat dripping off of them, the light catching the gold highlights of Tom's hair. They were the center of attention on the dance floor dancing with everyone while still dancing with each other. Duncan was right it was very erotic. "Chakotay, do you think Tom would be open to suggestion? Would you?" "Well, it depends on the suggestion." "Do you want to watch them together? Could you handle it?" "Could you?" "Yeah I could, do you think they'd do it?" "I don't know and I have no idea how to approach them." "How about we just keep doing what we're doing and see if an opportunity comes up? Chakotay I've really grown fond of both you and Tom over the past months. I wouldn't want to make anything awkward, let's just watch them. I think they still want each other." "From watching them out there, I know you're right. Duncan two months ago I would have gotten insanely jealous, but now, I'm intrigued. Especially since Tom wants sex four times a day. The man is insatiable. I'm beginning to believe all he thinks about is sex and flying. Food is even secondary to him. From the looks of you in the mornings, I would have to say Methos is the same. Let's just let them lead OK?" On the dance floor Methos had pulled Tom in for a slower dance, and the two pairs of dark eyes watching them that he couldn't have missed, gave him an idea. "Tom go along OK? I'm trying an experiment. Watch Chakotay and Mac." Methos pulled Tom even closer to him, wrapping his hands around the blond man's hips and cupping his cheeks in his hands. He felt Tom's cock jump against his own and realized it needed to be a quick experiment or he was in trouble. "What are they doing?" "Uhhhmmm, they're kind of licking their lips and shifting around in their seats. Methos are you doing what I think you're doing?" Tom wasn't slow, he remembered their conversation in sickbay when they first returned to Voyager, this could be interesting. "I'm going to let you go before I have a problem, but yeah, let's play around a little and let them get comfortable with the idea before we start something." He looked up at the slightly taller man he was still dancing with before he spoke again, "Tom, you are game for this right? I think I'm reading you correctly, but it never hurts to make sure." "Oh yeah, Methos, I'm coming through loud and clear, what do we do next." "When's your next holodeck time?" "Tomorrow." "OK, we'll run the Monterey program and see what happens. Do you know what the week after next is?" "No, should I?" "The anniversary of Voyager finding me and Duncan. I think we can work out a special surprise by then if we take it easy on them. Come on, we've teased them enough, let's go sit down." --- It was another perfect sunny California day in holodeck two. Methos and Tom had replicated beer and food and were ready to execute their plan. Today was just a test run, but both men were nervous. They hid it well as they waited for their respective lovers together. Tom was afraid Chakotay was going to have to pull extra duty when the big man was late, but he commed him and found out he was on his way. Methos had replicated a plastic dish that looked like a dinner plate with edges and he told Tom it was called a Frisbee. They were playing with it when the latecomers arrived. Chakotay and Duncan were both wearing bathing trunks, but Tom and Methos had stripped to the smallest of speedos. Tom had no idea what the garment was when Methos had handed it to him, but Methos assured him the outfit used to be all the rage on European beaches. He added at least Tom looked good in it, most of the wearers of speedos in the twentieth century didn't look nearly so good. Tom was blushing again, he couldn't help it. He thought about their plan again, what if they had misread the situation? Methos told him again and again that they hadn't but Tom was still a little worried. Well, they had planned to take it slow and work from the cues given them. He lost a little of his worries as Duncan dove for the Frisbee, grabbing it out of Methos' hands at the last second. He whipped it to Chakotay who actually caught the strange disk. He studied it for a moment before flinging it to Tom, but Methos got there just as the Frisbee did and tackled him to get it away from him. They went down in a pile of long alabaster limbs and a flash of blue and red lycra speedos. They stayed on the ground laughing, holding each other a little too close until Duncan darted in and grabbed the Frisbee from Methos' hand. Tom and Methos stayed on the ground where they fell, still laughing. They looked at the two men watching them and started phase one. Rather, Tom started it. He lazily ran his hand up Methos' bare chest stopping to caress his nipples on the way up, Methos turned his head and kissed Tom deep. The suits they were wearing didn't hide a thing, and that was part of the plan. Chakotay and Duncan looked on stunned. They were looking for a way to bring the subject up, but the participants had beaten them to it. Chakotay felt a stirring in his own groin as he watched the two men on the ground becoming more and more passionate. Methos ran his hand down Tom's chest in a mirror imitation of what Tom had just done but he stopped just above the waistband of Tom's now too tight suit and grabbed Tom's hip, pulling him in closer. Duncan's trunks had been loose fitting until the display in front of him started to unfold. Methos was putting on a sensual show for his audience and Duncan couldn't take his eyes off of him. He loved the look of rapture on Methos face, for once getting a chance to study him as it happened. Usually, he was too busy. The men broke off their impromptu kiss to gaze speculatively at their lovers. Both men were looking at them expectantly, without a hint of reproach in their expressions. In fact, they had both lowered themselves to the ground and were sitting on their haunches not ten feet away. Chakotay nodded to Tom first and Tom felt his stomach flutter at what he knew was to come. He and Methos hadn't planned to do more than kiss, but hey, encouragement was encouragement. Duncan took his cue from the Commander and nodded to Methos as well. It was all they needed. Methos rolled over so he was on top of Tom and began to kiss the blond man's throat, nipping and nibbling at the pale skin. Tom was breathing hard and his erection was straining against his shorts. He arched up to meet the matching erection straining to meld with his own. He was running his hands up and down Methos' long smooth back, reveling in the feel of the man. He had forgotten just how good Methos felt to him. He was so different from Chakotay that Tom had no problem separating the two men in his mind. Methos rolled off of Tom and propped himself up on his elbow while lying on his side. He looked the aroused man up and down, deciding how far to take things the first time. Neither Duncan nor Chakotay looked stressed or embarrassed so he decided to continue what he was doing. He could see the outline of Tom's penis through the thin fabric of his shorts and decided to go for subtly. He wanted to stick to their plan of the anniversary gift so clothes would stay on today. He reached down and cupped the full package of Tom's arousal in his hand, lightly running his thumb over the tip of him through the thin fabric of his swim suit. Tom arched up to meet his touch and a sigh of arousal escaped his lips. Ahh, the responsiveness of the boy, Methos loved it. Tom's hands were busy as well, he was tracing patterns on Methos hip while enjoying the touch of the oldest man. Methos felt more blood surge to his groin and let out a low moan. He was rubbing Tom harder now and the man began to writhe. Methos took his hand away for just a second so he could gain control of himself. If he didn't pause, he was sure he'd rip the man's shorts off him and take him right there. No, he told himself, this is just a testing of the waters. Time enough for that later if the test run is successful. He went back to kissing the man he had tottering on the edge of ecstasy, knowing he wasn't far behind. Tom pulled him deeper into his mouth, dueling with their tongues. Their kiss became harder, more insistent and the two men momentarily forgot their audience. Duncan broke the spell the they had been in while reacquainting themselves with each other's bodies. He cleared his throat and was barely able to get his words out, "You two are beautiful intertwined in the sand like that. Your skin is so white it's the color of the sand." Duncan's words were just what Methos needed to pull himself away from completion. He let go of Tom's hard, tantalizing cock and rolled over so he was on his back looking up at Duncan and Chakotay, "I have pure white skin, the boy is pink! It does make him blush prettily though." Tom too had used the interruption to gain better control over himself. He had been about to come when the interruption pulled him back. His cock was so hard and his balls were so tight that he felt like just a touch would set him off. He took a deep breath before he drawled to Methos, "My skin is peaches and cream, yours is sallow. So there." He stuck his tongue out at Methos and wriggled it around for good measure. It was hard enough being younger than Chakotay, he felt like an infant with Methos and Duncan. Fine he could be an infant. It was actually kind of fun. Duncan laughed at the two men and moved the two steps he needed to gather Methos into his arms, "I am going to start calling you old woman instead of old man if you keep arguing with Tom about your skin tone." Methos pulled Duncan's hand off the sand and put it into his own lap, "And I suppose a woman has one of these?" "And what do you plan on doing with that?" Duncan had pulled Methos into his lap, grinding his own swollen cock into Methos' backside letting him know just how much his show had aroused him. He knew the man was perceptive, but to know what he and Chakotay wanted when they could barely say it themselves? The man was special and he was his. He knew Methos would do anything for him, but it was nice to know doing Tom was Methos' idea. What had he done to deserve this brilliant, sensual, gorgeous, understanding man? Now he had two more men he loved. Not he way he loved his Methos, but he still loved them. Chakotay was a man he could respect and relate to and Tom, he was a funny, sweet, endearing, earnest young man with the potential of the galaxy. Methos was good for him and Mac like to think he was good for the young Immortal as well. He stopped his stray thoughts and concentrated on Methos. He picked him up and flung him over his shoulder and headed for the conveniently located cabana. He didn't have to look at the other pair of men on the beach, he knew what they would be doing soon. He had to get Methos naked now! That damn speedo was almost more enticing than the bare flesh he would soon be touching. Chakotay motioned for Tom to move over to him and he scurried over to the Commander's side. "Tom, I love watching your skin flush. Gods honey, that was so erotic. You two don't mind?" "Mind?" Tom pulled Chakotay's hand into his lap, "Does this feel like I mind? Remember? I told you I like you watching me, now you get to touch me. Come on, let's stay outside. There's a dune over there with our name on it. There's a blanket, towels, and I even remembered the lube." Tom pulled Chakotay to his feet and pulled him in the direction of a very large sand dune. Chakotay didn't need much pulling to get him going. --- The Anniversary date was fast approaching and Tom was worried they wouldn't be able to go through with their plan. Voyager had once again met up with aggressive aliens and Tom had to spend all of his time at the con only to be sent to sickbay whenever there were casualties. Methos lived in sickbay, he didn't have a choice. Chakotay never saw his quarters, only catching catnaps in his office before going back on duty. Duncan had been trained in engineering and security and never seemed to have a moment to himself either. Tom refused to be upset, every person on Voyager was making sacrifices and he would too. That's all there was to it. Three days before he and Methos' big gift, Voyager escaped their pursuers. They limped away, hurt, but whole. Tom and Chakotay got to spend some time together as did Methos and Mac. Unbeknownst to the others, Tom had arranged for them all to have eight hours off together. It wasn't much, but he was grateful. He met with Methos in sickbay in the morning and was ready to go through with it, he just hoped Chak and MacLeod appreciated the spirit the gift would be given in. Tom was alone in he and Chakotay's quarters. He thought of them that way know even though he had kept his own quarters. It wasn't official, but they were living together. Methos and Mac would be there soon and Chakotay still wasn't home. He was going to let them pick the menu so he hadn't started dinner. Looking back, he couldn't believe he was hesitant when he first returned to Voyager. On board he could have his dinner ten seconds after he asked for it. No digging up roots and hunting food on the hoof. He would stick to replicators and live in the 24th century. At least he knew now he could feed himself if he ever got stuck on a planet again. Chakotay walked in a few minutes before Mac and Methos were scheduled to arrive. He quickly shed his clothes and showered. He knew Tom was planning something, but didn't know why. He let their guests in and the four men settled down to dinner. It was the first time they had all been in the same room together since the attacks started and they were grateful for the time together, no matter how brief. Tom was the one who had to be on duty in only eight hours, the rest of them had a little more time before they had to go back to work. Chakotay appreciated everything Tom did to make his life easier. The man was always trying to be helpful, Chakotay couldn't believe that only a few years ago he thought the man was selfish. After dinner was finished and the remains cleared away, Methos stood to talk. Tom had gone into the bedroom to make some type of preparation, but neither Mac nor Chakotay had any idea what he was up to. They settled back onto the couch to listen to Methos. As he started speaking, Tom joined everyone in the outer room. "Today is the one year anniversary of Voyager finding the Darius and Mac and I joining the crew. Tom and I thought we would do something special for the two of you since you've gone through so much because of us. Well, because of me actually, but he wants to take some of the blame. Anyway, we thought you might like this," Methos paused to look at Tom and got a nod in return, "Follow us." Methos and Tom walked into the bedroom side by side. Tom had placed two chairs at the foot of the large bed and had taken all the covers off leaving just the sheets. There were two pillows in the middle of the bed and nothing else. Chakotay allowed Tom to seat him in one of the chairs while Methos sat Duncan in the other. Tom addressed the men set up as the audience, "After what happened in the holodeck a couple of weeks ago, we thought you'd like this. We are yours for the evening, we're the actors and you two are the directors. Whatever you want us to do, all you have to do is ask." There, the ball was in their court, thought Methos. They had an out. If they didn't want the two men to perform for them, they wouldn't ask them to. He rather hoped they would. Mac and Chakotay looked stunned, but Chakotay recovered first, "OK, take off your clothes, slowly please, both of you." Tom and Methos didn't know it, but the Commander and MacLeod had discussed this very fantasy just that morning. They were more than willing to accept the gift offered. Tom and Methos didn't need to be told twice. They started stripping simultaneously, Tom hurrying, Methos putting on a show. Tom realized what Methos was up to and he slowed down as well. He got an inspiration and pulled Methos to him. He slowly pulled the sweater Methos was wearing over his head, stripping his torso down to just a T-shirt. He let Methos unbutton his shirt, one button at a time and oh so slow. Methos paused to feel the bare skin he was exposing, running his hands further down Tom's chest as he exposed the man. When Tom was barechested it was Methos' turn again and Tom stepped behind him. He untucked the thin white T-shirt, but didn't pull it off of him immediately. He ran his hands up and down Methos' sides, applying pressure to his ribcage on the way up. He nuzzled the neck of the man who stood in front of him and nipped at an earlobe. He bit just hard enough to get a gasp out of the man he was undressing. As Tom pulled the shirt over Methos' head, he caught Chakotay's eye and could see the fire burning in him. He thought he would come just from the smoldering gaze directed at him, but he turned his attention back to Methos. Methos was already pulling Tom back in front of him, getting ready to strip him of his pants, but first the two men sat on the bed and pulled off their shoes and socks. They were enjoying their sensual striptease and the effect it was having on their audience. Methos stayed seated on the bed and Tom stood in front of him. They were on the side of the bed so the audience would get a good view. Methos unbuttoned the top button of Tom's pants as he moved his head forward and licked his navel, sticking his tongue into the small depression. Shudders passed through three of the men in the room as Methos chuckled to himself about the easy audience. He slipped his hand into the back of Tom's jeans as he finished unfastening the last of the buttons. He used his hand in the back to slowly tug down the pants and as they got hung up on the bulge in the front, Methos used both hands to tug them down. He pulled them off completely and when he bent down to pull them free of Tom's feet, he nipped the head of his cock through his gray briefs. The fabric was straining from the pressure of containing the hugely swollen organ within it's binding. When Methos nipped him, Tom almost pounced on top of him, or at least grabbed his head to demand more stimulation, but he remembered their audience and moved to strip Methos the rest of the way. Methos was still sitting on the bed and Tom knew what he would do. This was a show after all. He pushed Methos onto his back and raised his hips with one of his hands. Methos was wearing loose trousers that he favored and they conveniently had a drawstring waist. Tom bent down and unfastened the tie with his teeth and when they were loose enough, he used his free hand to pull them down and off in one motion. He let Methos' hips sink back onto the bed before he made another move. He was going to have the man naked immediately. He didn't care it was his turn to lose a garment. They each only had one left anyway. Tom put both hands on the band of Methos' boxers and had them off of him in one move. He bent down and planted a kiss on the hard cock that was pointing towards him and waited for further instruction from the directors. He still needed to be undressed though. Methos sat up and looked at the groin at his eye level. He could see Tom's cock against his body, pointing upward, the tip almost to the waistband of his briefs. Methos placed one hand on each side of Tom's hips, hooked his thumbs into his shorts and gave a little tug, lowering them just enough for the tip of his penis to poke out. He could hear heavy breathing in the background as he bent his head to nip at the head looking up at him. He couldn't drag it out much longer, no matter how much he was enjoying himself. Tom had thrown his head back and was becoming unsteady on his feet. He pulled the back of his shorts down, exposing the perfectly formed white buttocks and his hands roamed to the cleft between them. He nipped at the tip of Tom's cock again, parting his cheeks at the same time. Tom's knees buckled under him and his fists were clenched at his sides. He almost couldn't stop himself from grabbing Methos head and plunging that hot mouth onto his shaft. Methos took pity on him and stripped him the rest of the way with one pull on his briefs. Tom quickly stepped out of them and joined Methos on the bed to catch his breath. Tom leaned back on one elbow and raised a folded leg onto the bed. He was showing off and his audience knew it. Methos was showing off as well and he laid himself flat on the bed with his knees bent over the side and his feet on the floor. His erection was breaking the plane of his body, but it only added to the view. He had his legs spread as well and his balls rested on the satiny sheets. He wiggled around a little to feel the smoothness of the satin against his rear and lightly caressing his balls. He wanted instruction and he wasn't above giving Duncan a little nudge through a suggestive move. Duncan had almost forgotten his role in the little drama as all of his blood had drained from his brain and settled in his groin. Methos' writhing reminded him he was supposed to be directing the action. Duncan was getting a little bashful, but he knew they would do what he wanted if he was only able to ask. He tried to speak, but found he couldn't, so cleared his throat and barely managed to whisper, "Will you suck each other. At the same time, I mean?" They didn't need to be told twice. Methos should have known that's what Mac would have wanted, it was one of his favorite sex acts. Methos wanted to stretch their play out so he pulled Tom in for a deep kiss first, fondling him as he explored his mouth. They had enjoyed this position together before so when they moved into place, there was no awkward fumbling of first time bodily arrangement They went with their old favorite position. Methos was laying flat across the bed, his rear just at the edge and Tom was kneeling above him. Tom bent at the waist and felt Methos' hard cock with his hand before he pulled it into his mouth. He braced himself on one hand and used the other to play with Methos' balls. The taste of the man was achingly familiar to him and he silently thanked the two men still watching them. He was grateful for their acceptance and participation. Tom had never performed for an audience of more than one before and he found himself hotter than he ever had been. Methos used his hands to hold onto Tom's hips, guiding him toward his mouth. He didn't need to touch Tom with his hands, gravity pulling on the swollen organ was doing the job for him, he just needed to guide his hips. Tom was suckling, nuzzling and licking Methos until Methos couldn't hold still. Tom changed his tactics and switched to his balls, rolling them in and out of his mouth while he used his free hand to stroke Methos' cock. He concentrated on the sensation coming from his own groin as Methos raised and lowered his hips so he was thrusting in and out of the oldest man's mouth. Tom pulled himself away for just a moment to look at his audience. He held onto the tip of Methos' cock as he turned his head to look at the two men still sitting in their chairs. Both men were clutching the arms of their chairs as a drowning man would cling to a life preserver. Why weren't they touching themselves? Tom wondered. He knew if he were in their positions, he would have probably come twice already. Maybe they needed some encouragement. He thought he would laugh for a second, but then had a better idea. He let Methos' cock slide out of the side of his mouth, leaving a trail of pre cum and saliva on his face, "Do you two want to join us?" He knew they wouldn't refuse. For good measure he started gyrating his hips, arching his ass further into the air while still allowing access to his cock to Methos so he could continue to suck him. Chakotay was afraid he was going to come all over himself inside of his pants if this kept up for a minute longer. He didn't know Tom and Methos had decided the two directors could participate if they wanted to. Chakotay almost jumped out of his seat and slammed his cock home immediately, but then he remembered Duncan. He turned to look at the Scotsman, but he wasn't in his seat. He was just behind his seat, stripping off the last of his clothing. Chakotay got the hint and jumped into the fray. What a surprise! A very pleasant surprise. Chakotay admired Duncan's body as he stripped off the last of his own clothing. He looked back to his lover after he had examined Duncan from head to toe. Tom was still waggling his butt in the air and Chakotay knew what the man wanted. He pulled a tube of lube out of the bedstand and began to liberally slather his already straining erection. He moved behind Tom and grabbed his ass, spreading the cheeks. He could see Methos beneath Tom, sucking the man in completely and letting him go over and over again. He couldn't understand how Tom hadn't already exploded, but then he saw Methos squeezing his balls and then the base of his cock. Methos was keeping him right on the edge, waiting for the rest of the players to join in. Chakotay took his time stretching Tom out, tormenting him with just a finger, plunging it in and out of the tight opening he was about to enter. He kneeled on the bed behind Tom and got ready to position himself. He stopped for a second and listened to the distressed sounds the man was making. He was whimpering and moaning, not able to talk because he was still sucking on Methos. Chakotay glimpsed Duncan over Tom's shoulders and waited for him. Chakotay had never been with more than one partner at once, never mind three at the same time, and he didn't know how he had kept control of himself for so long. He went back to fingering Tom as he waited for Duncan. Duncan was fingering Methos at the same time, and before he could apply oil to himself, Tom let go of Methos and latched onto Duncan. Tom reached down with the hand he wasn't using to support himself and grabbed Methos' balls, squeezing gently to keep him from going over the edge. He sucked Mac in and out of his mouth a few times before switching back to Methos. Tom lost all abilities to plan as Chakotay entered him. He thought he'd scream, he was so crazed. His mouth was full of Methos, his own dick was being sucked by Methos and he was being entered by Chakotay, all at the same time. He sure hoped the big man would come fast because he was about to hit warp ten through the power of his building orgasm. He felt Methos' body begin to move beneath him and realized Mac had made his entry. Tom just held on for the ride and let the two men on the ends set the rhythm. He was being pushed and pulled every time one of the men thrust and Tom couldn't hold back any longer. He let go of Methos and let his head fall next to Methos' hips and onto the mattress. He screamed so loud he was sure they could hear him in the Vacuum of space outside of Voyager. He came into Methos mouth in hot, long spurts until he thought his head would explode. Both of them. When Chakotay felt Tom's muscles clenching around him, shrinking the tight hot channel even further, he couldn't hold back either. Duncan was leaning forward so his face was almost touching Chakotay's and Duncan turned his head so they were face to face. As Chakotay climaxed, Duncan met his lips in a searing kiss. Someone was yelling, no, two someone's were yelling and Chakotay blacked out. He woke up in a tangle of bodies and someone was poking him. He couldn't tell who it was. Then he heard giggling and he knew immediately the sound was coming from Tom. Tom staged whispered to Methos who was pinned beneath a pile of bodies, "See, I told you he passes out. I think we lost Duncan too." Methos was laughing and groaning at the same time, "Tom, make someone move, I'm getting crushed beneath about five hundred pounds of bodies here." Tom only started giggling harder and Chakotay felt his brain functioning again. Duncan was eye to eye with him on top of Tom and they gave each other a huge grin. "Chakotay, do 'ya think we should let them up?" The laughter coming from the bottom of the pile was infectious and Chakotay started laughing as well, "I think we might have to, they'll stick together if we don't , and I personally do not want to explain that one to the Captain when they show up like that on the bridge in a few hours." The four men managed to untangle themselves, towel off and all fit in the bed. They were all sort of stunned. That was incredible and very kinky. They were lined up in the bed, MacLeod on one end, Methos next to him, Tom next, and then Chakotay on the other end. Everyone was still catching their breath when Chakotay felt a hand on his groin. He knew who the hand belonged to without even looking. "Paris, hands to yourself. Or better yet, there's someone on the other side of you who's probably looking for more about now. I need some time here Tom." Tom started whining, "Chakotay, you're always saying that, and then you attack me, I don't know what to believe." "Tom I can't wait untlil I am old and you still look the way you do. I'm looking forward to being called a dirty old man and having a thirty year old looking lover at my beck and call." Duncan piped up from the far end of the bed, "Kotay, don't you mean you're looking forward to have THREE stunning young men at your beck and call?" Four distinct laughs were overlapping and merging until the whole room was filled with the laughter of four giddy satiated men. Methos had been unusually quiet but couldn't keep his mouth shut anymore, "Chakotay?" Chak raised his head to look at Methos, the man sounded serious and Chakotay wanted to show he was listening. "Yes Methos?" "You are the one to talk to get that wall between our quarters taken down aren't you? Think of the space we'll have." --- The End ... for now