New Discoveries
Conclusion
Captain Kathryn Janeway of the USS Voyager had been abducted. There was no trace of her or her comm signal, and no one other than Seven of Nine could identify the exact location of the guild house to where the Captain had beamed. Presently Seven of Nine was in sickbay on a biobed under sedation along with First Officer, Commander Chakotay. Once Lieutenant Tuvok realized the comm link had been severed despite his best efforts at preventing such an occurrence, the alarm had gone out.
Dolamon was a large enough city that without her comm badge, finding Captain Janeway would be difficult. Efforts to scan for her bio-signs had failed because the sensors continued to lack 100% reliability. The crew directly responsible to Tuvok was thankful he was Vulcan and therefore, not one to express emotion, especially anger. Everyone made certain they were busy repairing sensor arrays, transporter buffers, plasma manifolds and anything else they could find in order to stay out of Tuvok’s way. He was barking orders in an efficient but icy tone and it was obvious to everyone but himself, he was vexed by the current situation.
“Mr. Kim, have you been able to locate the Captain’s life signs yet?”
“Working on it,” Kim said quickly not bothering to look in Tuvok’s direction.
“You will need to work faster and more efficiently. We must locate the Captain and arrange a rescue,” Tuvok reminded him in a matter of fact tone.
“Understood. The transporter pattern buffers have retained an imprint of her molecular image. But, I’m having trouble re-creating the image because of the shadows within the transporter buffer matrix.”
“Enhance the residual matter stream into a singular pattern lock. I will assist you.”
The two men worked side by side, their fingers flying across the computer console making algorithmic alterations and corrections in the blink of an eye. For a moment it seemed the shadow of a grimace crossed Tuvok’s face, but was quickly replaced by determination. If one could have listened in on Tuvok’s thoughts, one might have heard fleeting recriminations. As it was, he took his role as security officer quite seriously and bent to the task of finding the Captain. The work was agonizingly slow and more than once, Ensign Kim stopped and let out a long sigh.
At least, he thought, I know I’m worried about the Captain. Tuvok doesn’t have the luxury of expressing any emotions but I’d bet a month’s rations he’s more than ‘concerned’.
It was Tuvok who finally expressed the inevitable. While the computer was continuing to give false images, shadows and echoes, the transporter pattern lock was simply unreliable. Voyager maintained everyone’s molecular information within the transporter interface but finding the Captain using this system was futile, as Seven might be heard to say. Even Tuvok admitted they were wasting precious time and resources at this point and bid Harry to return to his earlier duties in Engineering with Ensign Vorik.
“What now, Tuvok?” Lieutenant Paris asked turning in his chair and looking directly at the First Officer.
“We must organize a search party, Lieutenant,” Tuvok replied in a toneless voice.
“Sure…and the only person aboard who may know where the Captain is lays on a biobed in a coma. This is a big planet, Tuvok,” Tom remarked, cynicism lacing his voice.
“I will access the Captain’s logs. She is meticulous in recording away missions and I shall glean whatever information is required. Once I have ascertained a general location of where she may have gone, I will notify you to organize a search party. In the meantime, Lieutenant, may I suggest you return to your duties as ship’s pilot and keep us in a satisfactory orbit.”
Tom thought he heard sarcasm and a note of admonishment in Tuvok’s voice before realizing he was only imagining it. Tuvok was being his usual non-emoting self…nothing more, nothing less. Tom heard the doors whoosh open to the Captain’s ready room. What Tom and none of the rest of the crew knew was that Tuvok would stop at nothing to override whatever security commands kept the Captain’s personal logs private. While Tuvok, despite protests to the contrary, may have had concern for the Captain, he was well aware she was the binding force of this crew. Tuvok had served with her longer than anyone else aboard and knew she would stop at nothing to rescue a crewmember. He could do no less for her.
When Tuvok failed to mention he would need to access the Captain’s personal logs, he was shouldering the responsibilities of a breach of protocol extending beyond his scope as acting First Officer. There were minimal precedents dating back to when Commander Spock had been Captain Kirk’s First Officer, but even then, Star Fleet had frowned upon such breach of privacy. Tuvok and the Captain shared a special bond few could ever attain and he would deem it more honorable to break the security codes to her personal logs than face the remote possibility of returning to Earth without her. The latter was simply not an option.
Tuvok finished scanning the recent away mission logs and sat in the Captain’s chair with hands clasped; forefingers pointed like an arrow. His gaze was intense, determined, so focused was Tuvok’s concentration. He had obtained much needed information but not what he was really searching for…the answer to the question of why the Captain would beam to the planet without so much as a security escort. Her behavior was not logical and certainly not within her normal behavioral parameters. Tuvok leaned forward and began entering encryption codes.
Being the ship’s pilot had its advantages; so much occurred around him and within earshot that Tom Paris always kept his ears alert for everything and anything, which could be useful later on. He checked his instruments and felt assured all was well. Voyager was at maximal orbit station keeping and there was little else for Tom to do at the moment. He rose and asked permission to enter the Captain’s ready room.
“Tuvok, perhaps I can help you,” he offered without fanfare.
Tuvok, without bothering to look in Tom’s direction, continued to make attempts to access the Captain’s personal logs. He tried repeatedly to break the code the Captain used to protect her personal entries and despite his attempts, Tuvok was unsuccessful.
“I’m offering my assistance. I did spend some time in the penal colony and after all, being the sociable fellow I am, found ways to learn a few things.”
“I cannot order you to break the Captain’s security commands in order to access her personal logs, Lieutenant.”
“You don’t have to order me, Tuvok. I’m telling you I’d be glad to help and besides, I believe I can do it,” Tom insisted.
“Then may I suggest you commence with your assistance and not waste any more time,” Tuvok replied.
Tuvok watched as Lieutenant Paris began with a few encryptions. Each time he changed the code slightly and each time the computer denied access. He scratched behind his ear and stared at the screen before bending to the task once again. After a few minutes he realized he was going about this backwards. Paris figured Tuvok would have tried all of the more conventional methods of breaking through the Captain’s security codes. He had to think outside the norm; he sat back and looked out the port window watching the planet below.
Suddenly a flash of insight came to him and he sat forward eagerly and tapped a few keys. Again the computer denied access. Paris tried a few variations on the same idea and was met with the same frustrating results. He knew the Captain would never allow anything too obvious but he knew, too, most people kept access codes relatively simple. The Captain committed much to memory and a personal log security code would be something basic, familiar, yet something no one would think of because of its simplicity. At least that was what his cellmate had taught him. He sat back and thought about the Captain, thought about what she might deem important in her life. Paris scratched his ear again before bending to the task. This time the screen sprang to life and a smile crept across the Lieutenant’s face. He realized all those endless nights of listening to his cell block buddy brag about breaking personal codes and what to look for had not been wasted nights after all.
“That will be all, Lieutenant. Return to your station on the bridge and speak to no one of this,” Tuvok said matter-of-factly. “I suggest, also, that you immediately forget how you accessed this computer station or I shall…”
“Tuvok, we are in this together. Threatening me with the brig or telling the Captain won’t do either one of us any good. I have no intention of telling anyone about this and don’t worry about the codes. They are already forgotten. I want the Captain back on board as much as you. A simple thank you was the only response necessary,” Tom replied as he exited the ready room.
Tuvok sat in the Captain’s chair and began to read. He had surmised a change in the Captain’s demeanor of late, but had no idea the extent of her feelings towards a crewmember. She had somehow found new meaning in her life and if Tuvok could have expressed any feeling, it would have been one of happiness for the Captain. She had shouldered the responsibilities of getting her crew home and had risen to her duties better than many captains he had known. To deny her the simple pleasures of companionship was not within Tuvok’s frame of reference. He read about the guild house and the women Captain Janeway had met and come to admire and respect. He realized she had returned to the planet with an agenda of finding some answers for herself. At least now he knew why she had been so stubborn about returning to the planet without a security detail.
Tuvok continued examining the logs where she had meticulously described her away mission with Seven. He once again reminded himself of his trespassing activities, but he was looking for any clue revealing the whereabouts of the guild house. Tuvok continued to peruse until he found a reference to the muoline ore exchange in the tavern, the conversation with Larick and his friends, and Seven’s unease with Kyra. He stopped reading, closed the logs and touched the comm link to Engineering. The tavern was the most logical place to start the search for the Captain. Mr. Kim had been to that tavern, he remembered from earlier readings. Someone there would know about the guild house and its location.
“Mr. Kim.”
“Kim here.”
“I believe I have sufficient information to begin a search for the Captain. You will accompany me to the planet,” Tuvok informed Ensign Kim.
“Uh, well, I’m not trying to disagree with you, Commander, but I think your presence will be rather obvious,” Kim responded rather hesitantly. “And, Vorik and I are working on the transporter array pattern buffers…we think we have found the problem and are working to correct it.”
“Report to sickbay, Mr. Kim.”
“But……”
“I would prefer not to repeat myself. You will meet me in sickbay, Mr. Kim. That is an order.”
“Yes sir.”
When he became lost in thought as he was now, Tuvok could stride with his head slightly lowered, his gaze only a few meters in front of him, and an intense expression on his face. On more than one occasion, the Captain had remarked how he appeared like a man on a mission with black clouds circling about him. He dispelled any thought of black clouds but it was true, he was a man on a mission. He was certain he had the right plan in mind but the key would be retrieving much needed information from Seven of Nine and to do that, the Doctor had to have her awake and functioning. As he strode into sickbay he inquired as to the condition of both patients.
“Little has changed. B’Elanna and I are focused on inverting the molecular structure of a possible vaccine using a sampling of the converted ore and bombarding it with photonic electrons. We have exhausted almost everything else, Tuvok. However, I plan to use some of Seven’s nanoprobes to make certain the bombardment process completes the cycling of the inversion.”
“When will you be ready to begin the process?”
“Within the hour I should think. I want to begin with Seven first even though Chakotay has been affected for a much longer time. I believe her nanoprobes will assist the process much quicker and if this works, then we can harvest a few of her nanoprobes and see if they can positively affect Chakotay,” the Doctor explained.
“Why photonic electrons?” inquired Ensign Kim, suddenly appearing at Torre’s elbow.
Lieutenant Torres chimed in, “Because everything else we have used so far hasn’t worked and we figured using a holoemitter to create the photonic electrons might at least have a better than even chance of succeeding. Our early trials have been promising.”
“I don’t know why we didn’t think of that before….we might even try it with the sensor arrays and some of the buffers,” Kim added.
“One thing at a time, Ensign,” Tuvok interjected. “Doctor, I need to have my ears transformed in order to blend in more easily with the local inhabitants of the planet. Mr. Kim and I will be transporting to the surface in a short while and your assistance is necessary to the success of this operation.”
“I can do that for you, Mr. Tuvok, but it will require precious time I do not believe I have at the moment. Modifying your ears is not an easy request nor is it a priority for me at the moment.”
“Rescuing the Captain is the highest priority, Doctor,” Tuvok insisted.
“Not at the expense of this ship or its crew, Commander. Lieutenant Torres and I are at a point in our work where we cannot simply stop and attend to this request of yours. I will not cease my work,” the Doctor hissed.
“Must I give you a direct order, Doctor?”
The Doctor stopped fiddling with his scanner, placing it carefully beside the biobed and turning towards Tuvok, his gaze meeting the other man squarely in the eye. He let a few moments pass before he began.
“Let me see if I understand you, Commander. You want me to stop searching for a vaccine, a vaccine the Captain told me was her highest priority, and begin making alterations on your ears taking precious time away from my endeavors here. This is all in the name of rescuing the Captain because you need to be on the planet’s surface. However, if I can effect this vaccine and it becomes a viable option for Engineering personnel to remedy this ship’s host of bio-neural problems, we will have the personnel we need, specifically Seven of Nine, to help in this rescue process. Did I understand you correctly, Commander?”
The silence in sickbay was deafening. No one spoke for several moments. B’Elanna rested her fingers on the biobed’s cool surface steadying herself and watching Tuvok closely. Harry’s cheeks had flushed a warm crimson shade despite the fact the Doctor’s diatribe had not been directed at him. He studied a spot on the floor and wondered briefly if it was a piece of dirt.
“You are correct Doctor. Your logic is impeccable and I applaud your steadfastness to the task at hand. I shall return to the bridge. Please inform me of your progress. Mr. Kim, please return to Engineering.”
Saying nothing more, Tuvok turned on his heel and left sickbay, the doors whooshing closed with certain finality. Still, no one spoke for the moment. No one moved. Then, as though a switch had been turned on, each person bent to their task or moved in the direction of the doors, but no one said anything further about what had just transpired.
Captain Kathryn Janeway was aware of little except the thudding sensation in her head. It was as though a thousand asteroids were whirling and colliding inside her skull; the pain was that excruciating. Starfleet training had given her the instinct to remain quiet, keeping her eyes closed and using her other senses to determine her whereabouts. She heard a woman’s voice whispering to her, beckoning her to awaken. Kathryn did not want whoever was behind that voice to realize she was becoming more conscious with every breath. She steadied her breathing and concentrated on minimizing the asteroids, which she believed had taken up permanent residence in her head. She realized she had been kidnapped and thought back to what she had been doing.
I was heading in the general direction of the tavern, wanting to meet Keth and Doria. I remember the strength behind whoever abducted me.
Even now Kathryn could feel the slight swelling in her cheek where fingers had pressed so roughly. She did not think she had been injured otherwise and took stock of herself closely. Without being able to move, Kathryn was limited in her self-assessment, but she was unwilling to alert her assailants as to her level of consciousness. She hoped her comm link remained hidden within the folds of her clothing. Since it was protocol for anyone on away missions to periodically check in with Voyager and since she had not, Tuvok would have tried to contact her. Anyone within earshot would have heard the signal. She was counting on the fact the link was damaged somehow but ruefully realized that also meant she was truly on her own. Once again she chided herself at her foolishness for leaving Voyager alone.
The voice had stopped whispering and the only sound breaking the eerie silence was a steady tap-tap-tapping sound, something Kathryn could not discern without opening her eyes. It sounded slightly metallic against wood. She would need to move soon as cramps were beginning in her legs and lower back. She realized her legs were bound but not her hands, something she thought odd.
Kathryn used every ounce of self-control, opening her eyes to the size of minute slits. She surveyed what she could and saw no one near her or across from where she lay. She opened them further and managed to examine her surroundings to the best of her ability. She was lying on her side on rough plank flooring, dust tickling her nose. Across from her were sacks containing something unrecognizable by the printing on the cloth. She thought she was in a warehouse by the number of sacks piled high. She took notice of hooks suspended from the ceiling where some had crates hanging from them. There was limited light filtering in from outside, she thought, although she was not certain in her assessment about that. She knew someone was behind her, but she dared not roll over. Whoever it was did not check on her condition closely, so Kathryn concentrated on learning more about her surroundings.
She surmised her original assessment was correct; she was in a warehouse and Kathryn was relatively certain that only one person was guarding her. She heard no conversation and there was not the usual bumping and scraping of chairs when people shifted their weight. Kathryn brought her attention back to herself and tried to assess if she were bleeding anywhere. Her cheeks hurt terribly, but she could see no blood staining the front of her clothing. The pounding in her head had abated only a little. She felt relatively certain she was in one piece and this gave her increased confidence. If she could manage a way to unbind her legs without being discovered, she would be able to fight her way out of this mess. The cramps were not subsiding and she would soon have to do something to relax them. She remembered an exercise Tuvok had taught to assist with minimizing a cramp in her leg after a session of hoverball with Seven on the holodeck. She closed her eyes briefly remembering Seven’s touch and the softness of her lips. Then she banished such thoughts from her mind and concentrated on Tuvok’s meditation.
Slowly, the cramp eased and even more slowly, Kathryn moved her legs a millimeter. The binding would not allow much further but at least she had shifted her position enough to ease the ache in her lower back. She wanted to turn over and survey the other side of this large room yet, her senses dictated otherwise. She smelled something burning, not an unpleasant smell, but a burning odor nonetheless. Kathryn would not allow panic to rise; instead she focused on the odor and tried to assess its origin. She thought she could hear whoever was guarding her inhale deeply and finally recognized the burning odor for what it was…her jailer was smoking.
Suddenly a door opened and banged shut; heavy, halting footsteps could be heard coming closer. The second person made slight grunting sounds and Kathryn heard a chair scrape across the floor.
A deep voice asked, “Has she wakened yet?”
“No…she sleeps the sleep of the dead. Raju, you should let me kill this one,” a hard feminine voice answered.
“You enjoy killing too much, Aren. Waken her. It is time for answers.”
Kathryn knew she had to appear relaxed as though in a state of deep sleep, but the shock of a boot contacting the small of her back sent spasms of pain throughout her body. She roused herself slowly. Another kick in the space between her shoulder blades caused her to “waken” more fully.
“Wake up, Woman.”
Kathryn moaned and stirred and tried to turn over but discovered to her surprise her legs were not only bound to themselves, they were bound to a heavy iron ring set in the floor. The deeper voice instructed the woman to untie her legs and bring Kathryn to the table. She was roughly dragged to her feet and unceremoniously dragged to the table and dumped into a waiting chair. Kathryn was impressed by the woman’s strength.
“You are known by what name?” Raju asked.
“I am called Kathryn. And you?”
“I am Raju and this is Aren. She would enjoy killing you so I would suggest you answer my questions and not be foolish. When we are finished here, we will escort you to a detention center and the security guild will be pleased to see to your future…if you have one,” he finished with a mirthless snicker.
“I have done nothing, committed no crime. What do you want from me?” Kathryn asked coolly, keeping her voice low and level. She eyed the scars lining his face and realized they made him appear equally as dangerous as his partner.
“You know a man known as Larick. We want him. We want you to tell us where we can find him,” Raju said simply, his dark eyes watching her closely.
Kathryn said nothing at first, gauging how much she could share without giving anything away. She glanced at Aren who stood to one side smoking a cigarillo. Aren held in her hand a strap attached to a metal rod and she was slapping the palm of her hand with it. It made a familiar sound and Kathryn felt a shudder crawl its way into her belly.
“Larick…Larick. Oh yes, the man from the tavern. I met him only the other day. A nice enough fellow,” she replied in the same low voice and turning back to Raju.
“Don’t be stupid,” Raju hissed as Kathryn felt a fist collide with her left cheek, knocking her off her chair. She never saw it coming and realized it was Aren who had cold cocked her. Aren dragged Kathryn back onto her chair showing her the wickedest of smirks. It sent a momentary wave of fear through Kathryn and she realized how dangerous this woman could be.
“I will ask you again. Where can we find him?”
“I don’t know. I met him the other day and was hoping he could help me find a reasonable vendor. I am here to trade for woolens,” Kathryn replied touching her cheek with the back of her hand. The skin was terribly bruised and she could feel swelling beneath her fingers. She eyed Aren briefly with a look of contempt. She returned her attention to Raju; at least she needed him to control this monstrous female and Kathryn knew to not antagonize him further.
“Your story lacks plausibility although I do not doubt your sincerity in trying to appease me. We know Larick is working with an underground cell. We know he has many contacts and we know he is a ringleader of a movement to stop our people from accomplishing our goals. We just do not know where he is but,” Raju paused for effect, “I believe you do know….or….you know of those who know his whereabouts. We believe you are working with him. He gave you an illegal sample of the ore and you promised him something in return. I want to know what that was.”
“I think you believe me to be part of his crowd and I can assure you that I met him only a few days ago,” Kathryn insisted keeping her head turned towards Aren so she would not be surprised a second time. “As for any kind of trade, he gave me nothing.”
“You lie!” Raju roared and once again Aren’s fist collided with Kathryn’s cheek sending her spinning off the chair. She had no opportunity to duck from Aren’s blow. Kathryn could not remember feeling so much power and force behind such a punch. This time Aren left Kathryn on the floor a moment longer before dragging her and dumping her into her chair.
“You are so foolish,” Raju spoke shaking his head. “And I have warned you about my companion here. She would like nothing more than to kill you. And I may have to give her such pleasure. But first, you will help me find him.”
“How can I do that?”
“By finding the guild women who know him and they will lead you to him. They did it before and they will do so again. I will be with you and you will introduce me to them. Of course they, too, will be arrested as co-conspirators as will you.”
Kathryn’s cheek lay open and she could taste the familiar coppery flavor of her blood as it pooled in her mouth. She watched Aren with an openly hostile glare but the woman simply gave her the same defiant smirk as before. It was clear to her that not only was Aren dangerous and unpredictable, Raju had no intentions of controlling her. Her stories had to lend some credence or he would let this woman beat her to death. Kathryn knew truth laced with falsehoods might protect her a little while longer.
“I was on my way to meet them when she intercepted me,” Kathryn said pointing at Aren. “I have no idea how long I have been here and they may not have waited for me.”
“Where were you to meet them?” Raju asked, drumming his fingers on the table.
“The same tavern where I first met Larick. May I have some water please?”
Ignoring her request, Raju turned to Aren and inquired as to how long Kathryn had been unconscious. She mumbled an answer, which infuriated him. Kathryn thought he might strike out at her but he kept his hands still. Then his fingers began the drumming again and he brought his gaze back to Kathryn. She realized the scarring made him look even more hideous in this light but she was resolved not to show revulsion. He was the only person at the moment that truly held her life in the balance and she needed him.
“You will return to the guild house then. You will fashion some excuse for not meeting with them at the tavern. We will accompany you and you will introduce us as friends. Then, I want you to request them to contact Larick and make arrangements for another meeting. Do you understand this?”
Kathryn realized the mistake Raju was making but she nodded in agreement. It was obvious he did not know she was new to the city and introducing him to anyone was the flaw in his plan. She would use it to her advantage and let him think what he may. Keth and Doria were intelligent enough to understand anyone she might return with had no business being at the guild house.
Kathryn realized, too, the only person who could have given him the information he did have was Kyra and that only confirmed Seven’s suspicions and the suspicions of the women she had come to trust. She felt the familiar but momentary pang of loss at Seven not being at her side. Kathryn stood, straightening her shoulders before addressing Raju.
“Keep this woman away from me and I will do as you ask,” Kathryn muttered.
“No, Aren is excellent incentive for you to do as you are told. She will be with us at all times, and,” he turned towards Aren, “you will use discretion. Do you understand?”
Aren sullenly shook her head and stood back from the table. She wanted so much to smash this woman’s face and kill her with her bare hands. It had been some time since she had done that and yes, she enjoyed killing. She would enjoy watching this one suffer. She would enjoy killing this one.
The Doctor had been working feverishly with B’Elanna ever since Tuvok had left sickbay. Neither of them had mentioned the incident so intent were they on using the photonic electrons to bombard the inverted molecular structure of the converted ore. Their repeated attempts had finally found success. The Doctor had carefully extracted a few of Seven’s nanoprobes and almost immediately the nanoprobes had reconfigured the inverted molecules to begin repairing some of the damage. Each trial was repeated exactly as before and the results were the same. It was working!
“Sickbay to the Bridge.”
“Tuvok here.”
“I think we’ve done it. I am injecting Seven now with the converted nanoprobes. Do you want to be here when she wakes up?” the Doctor asked excitedly.
“On my way. Mr. Paris, you have the bridge.”
The Doctor injected Seven with her own converted nanoprobes and had only a few minutes to wait before her eyes fluttered open and she looked around with dismay crossing her face. She tried to sit up but the Doctor gently restrained her.
“Why am I here?”
The Doctor reassured her with a smile and a hand on her arm before telling her how she had become infected by the same viral spore as Chakotay. He regaled her with his untiring and dauntless efforts until Tuvok stepped in and stopped him. The Doctor stepped away from the biobed with a perturbed expression on his face.
“Seven, your assistance is required,” Tuvok began.
“Explain.”
“Captain Janeway is missing and our scans are not detecting her biosigns with any validity,” Tuvok replied.
“I am well enough,” Seven responded as she tried to rise. A pained expression creased her brow and the Doctor interceded, pressing a hand to her shoulder and forcing her back on the biobed.
“She is still my patient and I have not released her to go anywhere, Tuvok.” To Seven he asked, “Seven, what is it?”
“I do…not know. Something is different. Nanoprobe technology. Crude but effective, Doctor.”
“I injected you with converted nanoprobes.”
“Understood. But…but they are altering my…..” her voice trailed as she lost consciousness.
“Doctor.” Tuvok spoke.
“One moment, Commander.” The Doctor took his medical tricorder and placed it near the injection point to watch as figures scrolled across the small screen. A small frown played across his brow before he took a second hypospray and pressed it quickly below Seven’s cortical implant and injected a second set of converted nanoprobes. Everyone in sickbay waited until Seven’s eyes fluttered open.
“Doctor.”
“You lost consciousness, Seven, but I do not think it will happen again. Can you tell me what you experienced?’
“Do you remember when we found the converted ore?”
The Doctor shook his head in affirmation.
“Do you remember I told you something felt familiar?”
Again the Doctor shook his head.
“The Borg visited this planet a long time ago, found it unremarkable but left its mark.”
“Yes, Seven.”
“It left nanoprobes in a stage of infantile dormancy. They became activated once the people on this planet began to mine the ore and use it for energy. These nanoprobes will not grow to become Borg but they will activate a signal to bring the Borg here. They must be destroyed. Otherwise this planet and its people will be assimilated.” Her matter of fact tone of voice stopped suddenly leaving a massive silence in the room.
“You know this to be a fact?” Tuvok asked finally breaking the silence.
“It is part of my memory now. I did not remember it before because the nanoprobes on this planet are altered, flawed. They will destroy this planet and everything on it if they are not destroyed.”
“Will they not destroy you, Seven?” B’Elanna asked with some concern. She and Seven were not the best of friends, perhaps not even friends, but B’Elanna had come to respect this woman for her capabilities.
“My own nanoprobes have neutralized them. I am ready to assist in finding the Captain.”
“It is imperative we find Captain Janeway. Our scans are unreliable. The ship is maintaining orbit but unless we can alter the effects of this viral invasion, the orbit will begin to decay in eighteen point four five hours. Now that your condition has dramatically improved, you can assist with the search. You are the only person aboard ship who knows the exact location of the guild house where you both remained overnight. Do you feel well enough to transport to the planet and assist in the search?” Tuvok asked without emotion, a mask of non-expression splayed across his face.
“I want to make certain your nanoprobes do not malfunction,” the Doctor interrupted while using his medical tricorder to scan.
“There is no malfunction, Doctor. While Commander Tuvok has explained the current situation, I have been scanning for any residual effects. There are none and I am fully recovered. You must use the converted nanoprobes to combat the virus spores. I will assist because I know how to locate the Captain,” she asserted as she sat up swinging her legs over the side of the bed.
“That’s what I like about you, Seven,” B’Elanna ventured, “After being unconscious for over a day, you wake up and are ready to fight the battles. Typical Borg,” she muttered shaking her head. “I’m needed in Engineering and I think Harry is probably ready for some of these converted nanoprobes. I think we may be able to get this ship fixed….finally.” She gathered a tray of samples and headed towards the door when Tuvok stopped her.
“Lieutenant, it is imperative we get the gel packs isolated and clear of any spores. That must be your first priority. Please pay close attention to each subsequent system in the order of its priority.”
“I know my job, Tuvok, which is why I want Ensign Kim’s assistance. My first priority it to get these samples back to Engineering,” Torres replied rather icily as she quickly exited sickbay.
Tuvok refocused his attention once again on Seven of Nine.
“I believe the Captain may have returned to the surface to visit with the women from the guild house on personal business. You have spent time amongst these people, Seven. However, I would prefer to send a security officer with you.”
“That is not necessary and it would be an inefficient use of personnel. Is the comm link working satisfactorily?”
“Yes, but the Captain’s link is not. It is either damaged or it has been taken from her. Either way, we cannot communicate and it is unknown if she has been harmed. Your link will suffice to maintain communications. I will give you three hours, Seven, before I send down additional personnel.”
“That amount of time may not be sufficient. However, I will report in every hour and offer a progress report.”
“Three hours is all I shall grant,” Tuvok reiterated with narrowed eyes. “Ensign Alejandro could accompany you. He is familiar enough with the culture.”
“Men are not allowed within the walls of the guild house, Commander. It would only arouse further suspicion for me to appear with a man at my side. I was there with Captain Janeway and the women of this house will recognize me as being a friend of hers. They will assist me.” She kept her voice steady despite feeling the stirrings of anxiety about the Captain’s whereabouts.
“Agreed. Be careful. Find the Captain as quickly as you can and return to the ship.”
Seven remained with the Doctor long enough for him to be satisfied she was fit for this assignment. She had withdrawn within herself, thinking about Kathryn and how she was faring. Seven knew the Captain could take care of herself; she was strong and quite capable of self-defense. Seven’s eyes grew dark at the thought of the Captain being hurt because whoever had harmed her would suffer recriminations. Seven realized what she was feeling now was revenge and she knew she would have to control herself, lest she fail her mission.
She warmed with thoughts of Kathryn. Failure was not an option. She would find her and together they would return to the ship.
Ensign Kim enabled Seven to beam down to the same coordinates not far from the tavern where he had beamed back to the ship two days earlier. Night had fallen and the cold penetrated Seven’s cloak as she wrapped it about her shoulders more tightly. She drew the hood closer but not before glancing about to see if anyone might have seen her sudden appearance. The only other person on the street was hurrying in the opposite direction; Seven felt assured she had not been observed. She crossed the street and entered the tavern.
The scene before her was familiar…people were eating, drinking and conversing in hushed voices. Women carrying trays of food made their way among tables. No one paid much attention as Seven headed towards the rear of the establishment. She watched carefully for anyone she might recognize but her efforts were futile. Neither Keth nor Doria were anywhere about and no one resembling Larick or the man he had brought to the tavern to meet with Kathryn was present. She returned to the street and began walking in the general direction of Doria's guildhouse.
Because of her Borg physiology, Seven was capable of making excellent progress. The wind had risen even more and with it the promise of more snow. Seven concerned herself with none of these matters. Her attention was focused on finding Kathryn and making certain she was unharmed. Because of her incredible memory for details and direction, Seven had no difficulty locating the guild house in a short amount of time. She waited and watched to make certain she had not been followed by anyone from the security guild. Seven chose to make her way around the house and its environs carefully before knocking at the front door. A woman greeted her whom she had met previously at the dinner table the night she and Kathryn arrived.
“Why hello again,” the woman said.
“Good evening, Hora,” Seven answered. “I am hoping to find my friend, Kathryn.”
“Come in, come in….the weather is turning so nasty tonight and you look frozen, dear. I think another storm is brewing. This is the only the beginning, though. From now on we’ll only have snow and ice and ice and snow. Maybe some rain, but always the bitter cold wind.”
Seven waited a moment before asking if Kathryn was in the guildhouse. She began to feel impatient with the woman’s chatter.
“You know, I can’t remember if I saw her at dinner and that’s odd.”
“Why?”
“Well, I thought you both returned to your village yesterday. But, I know I heard her voice earlier today and here you stand,” she remarked with a smile broadening her face.
Seven did well to keep her frustration in check. She inquired as to the whereabouts of Keth and Doria but the woman could only shrug and point upstairs.
“They have cloistered themselves in Doria’s study for most of the evening. You might think they were conspiring about something,” the woman twittered. “Go on up. The study is the second door on the left. Are they expecting you?”
“I do not believe so. Thank you for your assistance,” Seven remarked anxious to get away from this woman.
She mounted the stairs, restraining herself from taking them two at a time. She passed the first door and heard giggling and frowned. She saw little benefit to some of the antics of these women residing in this guild house. She knocked quietly on the second door and heard a diminutive voice beckon. As she pushed the door open she saw Doria sitting with a book on her lap and Keth reclining next to the fire grate. Doria uttered an exclamation causing Keth’s head to turn.
“Seven! Thank goodness you’re here. Kathryn is missing and we are certain she has been abducted by the security guild.”
“She was supposed to meet us at the tavern, Seven, but she never arrived.” Keth interjected in a voice showing restraint and calmness. “We contacted Larick at her insistence, but when Kathryn didn’t appear, he became quite agitated and left. His success at developing a system of communication and trust has relied upon discretion and secrecy. He has been very wary of strangers but we assured him you were both trustworthy. When Kathryn did not appear in a timely fashion, we waited as long as we could. Neither of us knew how to find you.”
“Kathryn and I returned to our … vessel, and I became ill. Why was Kathryn not with you when you met Larick?”
“We thought it would be safer but now, oh Seven…” Doria’s voice trailed as she twisted her hands in her lap.
“Seven, you must understand,” Keth interrupted. “These have been uncertain times and well, we thought Kathryn was so self-reliant. When it was obvious something must have happened to her, we returned here hoping she might come here too. We meant no harm by separating. We sent her by a passageway we knew was safe from prying eyes.”
“I must find Kathryn. You will assist me.”
“What can we do to help? Your people are far more advanced technologically than we are. How can we possibly help you?” Doria asked with almost a whine in her voice.
“No one was watching your house when I arrived. I have already been to the tavern and no one was there whom I recognized. I will ask again. Where do you think they could have taken Kathryn?”
Both women looked at each other with blank expressions on their faces. It was obvious to Seven they had no idea as to the Captain’s whereabouts nor were they adept or knowledgeable about techniques involved in espionage or subterfuge. However, she required their assistance. They would know enough about the security guild and their techniques to assist her with not being caught by them. She needed her freedom to roam and ferret out additional information leading to the discovery of Kathryn’s whereabouts.
After an interminable silence, “Will you assist me in finding Kathryn?” Seven asked both women.
“Of course, Seven. But I think we need Larick’s assistance too. Let me contact him,” Doria offered.
As Doria rose to leave the room, they heard a boisterous commotion downstairs. Voices were raised in anger and the loudest was a man’s voice. Doria strode out of her study with Keth on her heels. Seven felt a momentary pang of anger that Tuvok had not respected her wishes and had beamed Ensign Alejandro down to follow her. She hurried after both women. Doria held up her hand and whispered to Keth for she and Seven to remain on the landing, just out of sight. Keth held herself in check and kept Seven from venturing further down the stairs.
“You cannot enter here…. this guild house is solely for the purpose of housing women. It is a travesty how you have barged in here like this. Kathryn, you know better than to bring this brute into this house with you,” a woman shrieked.
“Where are Doria and Keth? I must speak with them,” Kathryn replied quietly, doing her best to calm a most difficult situation. “My..my friends need their assistance.”
Doria appeared in the hallway, relieved to see Kathryn but very concerned about the man and woman with her. He looked dangerous and the scar crossing his cheek gave him an even more menacing expression. No man was allowed to step foot inside a women’s guild house and she was certain Kathryn was quite aware of this. Yet, here she stood with a man at her side and she referred to him as a friend. The woman looked equally dangerous and there was something else, a glimmer of physical power held in check. Something was wrong, terribly wrong.
“Hora, it is all right,” Doria acknowledged to the woman blocking the doorway as she stepped past her. She resisted the urge to stare at the man’s face, the hideous scar that made him look so intimidating. His dark eyes watched her carefully and a chill graced her neck like cold breath.
“Kathryn,” she chided gently, “You know the protocols of a guild house. Men are not allowed within these walls and yet, you bring this stranger amongst us. Surely you have a legitimate reason. Please, follow me to the outer room,” Doria said quietly, keeping her voice moderated and soft. She turned away from Kathryn and the strangers and walked towards the small outer room, which could only seat two persons. She could feel them watching her and a shiver ran the length of her spine. She beckoned for Kathryn to sit as she took her own seat facing her, thus ignoring the intruders. She noted the bruising and swelling on Kathryn’s face and inwardly winced, knowing one of these two had harmed Kathryn.
She spoke only to Kathryn. “Explain.”
“This is my friend, Raju and his … companion. He requires your assistance,” Kathryn spoke quietly and yet, within those two simple sentences Doria realized how much she was in trouble.
“How can I help?” Again, she did not direct her question to this dangerous stranger.
“He needs to contact Larick. We were hoping you might know where he is.”
“I do not.” Doria was unwilling to offer any additional information.
“Perhaps you could help by contacting him and arranging a meeting,” Kathryn spoke almost woodenly.
“May I inquire as to the nature of this meeting?”
“You may not!” Raju spoke for the first time with a certain level of vehemence in his voice. He was growing impatient with these two women. He wanted answers and he wanted them quickly.
Doria chose to ignore him. She continued to watch Kathryn carefully, noting the slight twinge of pain cross her face from time to time. She wanted to reach out and let her know that all would be well, that Keth and Seven just needed a few more minutes to position themselves.
“Kathryn, Larick is a careful man as you know. He will not be eager to meet with someone simply because I request it. I can contact him, but only if you can offer me some assurances.”
“I understand,” Kathryn replied. “Raju is here to warn him. He believes Larick is in danger and can help.”
“I see. And the nature of this danger?” Doria asked.
“Kyra is working with the security guild,” Kathryn answered.
“You were to meet us at the tavern. When you did not show, Larick became suspicious and left. I do not know where he is at the moment,” Doria offered trying to make her voice sound doubtful.
“I was detained. Raju met me, offered me dinner, and I agreed to bring him here to meet you. Can you help?”
“And you will vouch for him?” Doria asked with some trepidation.
“Of course.”
“Then I need you to come with me,” Doria beckoned for Kathryn to follow her.
When Raju stepped between them, she turned, drawing herself to her full height and spoke so quietly and yet with such conviction and defiance, Kathryn wondered if she had heard this woman correctly. She had always thought of Doria as being happy and carefree, certainly not demanding nor dictatorial.
“You will remain here. You may not enter my house any further and to do so requires that I report you to the security guild. I will make certain the proper authorities arrest you and you will be sanctioned. Do I make myself clear?”
Raju stared at Doria and while she realized this man was dangerous and quite capable of killing her here in her outer room, she stood her ground. She returned his stare with open defiance knowing she had full jurisdiction in her house. Raju mumbled something offensive before seating himself on one of the chairs.
“Aren, you will accompany Kathryn and this … pugnacious woman!” he spat the words.
Aren obediently followed the two women out of the room. She had only been in one other guild house and this one made her feel equally as uncomfortable as the other had. She had no taste for living with women … or men … she was most comfortable keeping her own company. The one called Doria turned left and began ascending a set a stairs. As they arrived on the second floor, Doria and Kathryn made their way to the second door on the left and pushed open the door. Aren was instantly on her guard; she abhorred close quarters. As she followed the two women into the room, a hand reached around the doorframe and grabbed her by the neck with tremendous force. Her breath was interrupted and despite her best efforts, she was unable to loosen the hold. Her vision dimmed and panic rose in her throat. Before she lost consciousness, she relaxed her body and slid to the floor. A face with metallic looking decorations loomed in front of Aren, a face that openly held not only anger, but also arrogant hostility. The hand clamped around her neck was strong, incredibly strong and for the first time in a very long time, Aren felt fear. The woman before her had long blond hair and clear icy blue eyes staring at her with such intensity, Aren thought they might burst into flame. She let her hand drift from her neck to her side where a weapon was concealed within the folds of her outer garment.
Keth noted the movement and restrained Aren’s hand in a decisively firm grip while she rifled through the garment to find a knife hidden in a leather sheath strapped against her hip. Aren was not going anywhere nor was she about to unleash the fury of her bloodlust on any of these women. Aren found herself restrained for the moment and despite her rising ire chose not to fight back. She would bide her time and find an opening and then make her attack.
“Well, well, well, Aren. The shoe is on the other foot now, isn’t it?” Kathryn began as she leaned closer to Aren’s face.
Aren responded by spitting in Kathryn’s face. Seven tightened her grip on the woman’s neck, feeling the cervical ligaments tighten and blood pulse through her veins. The mesh covering Seven’s right hand bore her heritage as part Borg and part Human but it was her Human side that thirsted for revenge. Seven’s strength actually lifted Aren from the floor enough to cause Aren to once again grip Seven’s wrists in an attempt to break free.
“Seven,” Kathryn spoke quietly, letting the sound of the name of the woman she loved, hang in the air momentarily. “Release her.”
Seven slowly released her grip on Aren’s neck and let the woman sink to her knees in a spasm of coughing. Keth, however, did not release her grasp. She knew not to trust anyone who would enter a guild house carrying a weapon. Aren had broken a sacred trust amongst all women everywhere.
“I see you have recovered nicely from the virus,” Kathryn offered, a shy smile spreading across her face, making her wince from the pain previously inflicted. “How is Voyager?”
“Recovering as well. B’Elanna and Harry are making repairs and the work is progressing. You have been out of contact. You are damaged, Kathryn.” Seven leveled a steady and concerned gaze upon the woman she loved.
“Indeed I have been. I will be all right, Seven.”
“Did this creature inflict this damage?” Seven’s eyes seemed to glow like the fiery heart of a diamond. She softly and gently touched her hand to Kathryn’s cheek.
“I’ll be fine,” Kathryn answered as she smiled warmly at Seven. “Now, how shall we deal with these two? We must still contact Larick.”
Doria was the first to offer the suggestion of keeping them confined in the cellar where root vegetables were stored. Keth readily agreed. Doria explained they could be locked in an area where no one could hear them even if they shouted or screamed. Escape was impossible.
“The walls are the foundation of this guild house and made of stone blocks at least a foot thick. The section of the cellar where they can be restrained is cool and dry and has a heavy door no one could break down,” Doria explained. “I will ask one of my more trusted tenants to stand guard. We can contact Larick and make certain you can share whatever information you have.”
“Agreed,” replied Kathryn. She turned to Seven and asked her to help Keth “escort” Raju. Seven hesitated a moment and Kathryn assured her that Doria and she would make certain Aren did not give them any trouble. Doria was already finding suitable material to bind Aren’s hands behind her back. They would bring her downstairs after a short time to allow Seven and Keth the time they needed.
Subduing Raju was even easier considering he faced two women bent on restraining him and Seven not of a mind to allow him to argue. Once their prisoners were confined in the cellar room despite outcries of rage and threats of retaliation, Keth contacted Larick and arrangements were made to meet at a safe place. They agreed to another location, not the tavern previously used. Doria was convinced that location was no longer safe and Keth agreed. Before leaving the guild house, Keth and Seven made certain the immediate area was secured while Kathryn contacted her ship. She would have sworn Tuvok’s voice held the slightest hint of relief. She let Tuvok know of her plans and assured him of her safety. She promised to return to the ship after meeting with Larick.
As they headed towards the center of Dolamon, Kathryn, sitting with Seven in the rear of the vehicle, grasped her hand and held it firmly between her own. It was enough to know Seven had recovered but it was even more gratifying to realize how good it felt to feel her closeness. She had not realized until the moment she saw Seven just how much she had missed her, how much she had missed her touch. Even now in the pale glow from the interior lights of the vehicle, she marveled at Seven’s strong chin and pale, smooth skin. She let out a sigh of contentment.
Seven explained to Kathryn what she had discovered in the process of her recovery. Kathryn was aghast at the implications of this information. The Borg, in its earliest development, had planted seeds on this planet; seeds which when cultivated, could signal far more technologically advanced Borg ships to return and assimilate this planet. Seven affirmed her worst fears…the cultivation process occurred during the transformation of the muoline. She asked if Seven’s memories included any other planets the Borg may have seeded.
“Yes.”
Kathryn let that one word answer settle itself firmly in her mind.
Larick was waiting as promised in the rear of a clothing shop he had previously used on a few occasions when it was necessary to hide friends from prying eyes of the security guild. He and Gegor, the proprietor, had known each other for several years and Larick trusted him implicitly. Even now, Gegor waited at the front door, watching for anything out of the ordinary. The hour was late and it was not unusual for him to be working in his shop taking inventory or rearranging his stock. It was the reason Larick had chosen his shop and Gegor felt a sense of pride at being able to help in small ways. He was a man of peace but knew only too well how his homeland had become maligned by random and vicious atrocities. Times were uncertain and so, he kept a watchful lookout.
The women entered the store quickly, greeted Gregor with a nod, and found Larick sitting at a table drinking a cup of hot broth. He eyed the four women whose cheeks were flushed from the cold. Doria quickly told everything she knew about Raju and Aren; Kathryn filled in the details about her abduction. Seven stood quietly in a corner, clenching and unclenching her fists. She had no idea of the amount of pain Kathryn had endured while in the custody of those two nefarious creatures. Larick assured them he would send friends to get them out of Doria’s guild house and keep them in a secured location until arrangements could be made.
Seven heard a whimpering sound from beyond a closed doorway. She took a step in the direction of the sound before Larick stopped her. She eyed him with arched eyebrow.
“I discovered how much of our organizational plans and operations were compromised and I knew who had betrayed me. After you contacted me confirming my suppositions,” he nodded to Doria, “I found Kyra making plans to further betray you both and I could not allow that to happen. She will no longer make any trouble.”
“What have you done, Larick?” Keth asked with a note of concern in her voice, but her gaze was hardened.
“I have not killed her if that’s what you’re inferring. At the moment, she is bound and gagged and not in the mood to be social. We will transport her later to one of our outlying community houses where she will be given choices to make. Despite my better judgement, I will not torture her, although she would not stoop to do worse to any of you. Have you brought any news?” he asked Kathryn with some impatience, looking directly at her and pointedly avoiding Keth’s gaze.
“Yes. The conversion process must be stopped. This world is in grave danger unless the transformations cease,” Kathryn replied, her voice laced with gravity. “When your science guild converts the muoline ore, energy waves are being directed outwards. These energy waves are like communications to other places, other people. It is only a matter of time before these people discover the source of these energy waves and come here. They mean to harm everyone on this world. I only hope we are not too late.”
Kathryn chose her words carefully already having decided these people had at least a right to know the possibility of their fate. She knew, too, she was once again bending Star Fleet’s prime directive. Silence enveloped the small shop and even the proprietor standing by the door was dumbstruck.
“So, it is not only our people here who intend to do us harm but other people we know nothing about. Is there not anything we can do?” Larick asked with arms spread in resignation.
“Perhaps,” Seven interceded from the corner. “Kathryn, our…” her voice trailed as she searched for the most appropriate word. “Our healer may be able to synthesize an antidote such as the one used to help me.”
“Is this true,” Larick inquired looking first at Seven, then Kathryn.
“Perhaps,” Seven replied. “The process may be complicated.”
“Seven?” Kathryn asked without venturing further.
“The process is complicated and we will require some time and privacy, but I believe it can be done,” Seven replied looking only at Kathryn.
“Please help us,” a voice spoke from the behind. “I am an old man and not overly courageous about fighting these people you speak of. I have only my shop, my family, my friends,” he said nodding at Larick, “but I also have my pride. I do not understand why we cannot all simply live together peacefully. I have seen hard times descend upon this city. I remember a time when commerce was very successful and there was plenty for everyone. It is so different now. People fear one another. We hide in our homes and dare not disagree too openly for fear of being arrested and sent to the work details. This is not what our ancestors intended for us, I don’t believe. We no longer live; we exist. You must help us.”
Captain Janeway said nothing for a few moments. The air hung thick with anticipation. She looked at Keth and Doria and noticed how Doria had placed her arm around Keth’s shoulders as a sign of … protectiveness? Or was it simply a gesture of affection? A part her felt momentary envy at their open display of devotion to one another. She watched the old man who had risked allowing them to meet here in his shop return to stand by the doorway. This was how he stood his ground with courage by being watchful for his friends. She looked at Larick and met his gaze, realizing she could not stand by and allow these people to be assimilated by the Borg. It was one thing to allow them to work out their cultural and civil problems as a people, but quite another for aliens, such as the Borg, to destroy any chance at their own destiny. She realized he would be a good leader if given the opportunity.
“Seven and I know of others who can help us help you. I have demonstrated good faith in providing a filter mask to stop your people from becoming ill during the mining process. You must trust again that we will stop the energy waves.” Kathryn stood, drawing herself to her full height and extending her hand to Larick. “That is the best we can do for you. I am not allowed to enter into any civil conflict, but I can help you maintain your own destiny.”
“You speak with strange words, Kathryn, and yet, I know you to be honorable and trustworthy. The masks you gave us have helped prevent people from becoming ill and that has meant more as a sign of good faith than anything else has that I could imagine. We are making more each day to help others. I am humbled when I say we welcome any assistance you can offer.”
“You’re welcome, Larick, and we are pleased to offer what we can. I have come to respect you and what you are trying to create here. Do not cease in your efforts,” Kathryn replied warmly.
“I sense you will not return to Dolamon again.”
“It is doubtful.” Kathryn turned to Keth and Doria who by now were standing. “You took us in when we needed shelter. You have shown us hospitality and a very special friendship. I will not ever forget your kindness.”
“You really are leaving aren’t you? Heading for your home. Kathryn, I hope you reach it safely and,” Keth’s voice faltered a moment, “I hope you have found what you have been searching for,” she said quietly.
“I believe I have and I have you to thank,” Kathryn replied with a smile. She reached with open arms to embrace both women, tears forming in the corner of her eyes. These were special women and Kathryn would never forget them. They had taught her that while accepting love was not wrong, she would still be the captain of Voyager. It was up to her as to how her crew accepted it.
Doria could not control herself. “You don’t have to leave you know,” she pleaded. “There will always be room for both of you at our table and our hearth.”
“Thank you,” Seven asserted allowing Doria and Keth to embrace her. While it felt awkward to be hugged, there was a stirring in Seven she would always remember and associate with the concept of friendship.
Captain Janeway sat in her ready room entering the final details of her report. Already her crew had worked round the clock and repairs to the ship were progressing faster now that they knew what had to be done. She sat back and watched the planet slowly revolve and thought about how much she would miss Keth and Doria. Her personal log contained an accounting of her feelings for Seven and how Keth and Doria played a part in helping her realize her good fortune. She thought, too, about how her relationship with Seven would be perceived by the senior staff. It was up to her to set the precedent.
Tuvok asked for permission to enter. He gave her an update on how Chakotay was faring in sickbay and how soon they would be ready to attempt her plan of helping the inhabitants of this planet. She had known Tuvok for many years and realized he was reticent about something. When she inquired, he said nothing for several minutes.
“I do not know how to tell you, Captain.”
“Tell me what, Tuvok?”
“When you were missing and our equipment could not locate you, I believed I had no choice.”
“No choice to do what?”
“I believed I had no choice but to attempt to glean facts from your personal logs.”
There was silence while Captain Janeway digested this information. She knew Tuvok well enough to know his breach of protocol and her privacy was something he would have loathed and he would have only done this had he seen no other way.
“I see, Tuvok. And you believe you had no other recourse than to access my personal logs.”
“That is correct, Captain,” he replied while standing with hands linked behind his back, his posture absolutely perfect.
“This is a serious breach of protocol, Lieutenant.”
“Agreed, Captain.”
“One that cannot go unnoted in the logs.”
“Agreed, Captain.”
“It would be setting a precedence for the Security Officer to break the Captain’s code lock and access personal logs for any information.”
“Yes, Captain.”
“And you say you had no other recourse?”
“I believed I did not. There was insufficient information in the ship’s logs to ascertain a location of your whereabouts and you were not within comm link.”
“I see. This is a serious offense, Tuvok.”
“Yes, Captain.”
“One that is punishable, I believe.”
“Star Fleet regulations Part 212 Section A-3, Paragraph 4 states…”
“I know the regulation, Tuvok. I don’t need you to quote chapter and verse. I am surprised, however, and concerned you were able to access my personal logs by breaking my code so easily.”
“It was not easy, Captain. It was most challenging.”
A satisfied expression crossed her face momentarily. At least she had developed a locking mechanism, which challenged her security officer and trusted friend. That in and of itself was a major feat. Here he was openly admitting his transgression and all she could feel was amusement.
“I am gratified to know I gave you a challenge then.”
“I am further vexed because it was unnecessary to access your logs, Captain. The Doctor managed to revive Seven of Nine and it was she who effected your rescue. Also, my behavior with the Doctor was unprofessional and argumentative. Prior to Seven’s recuperation, I acted in such a way as was unbecoming an officer. I am prepared for whatever punishment you deem necessary and appropriate.”
“I see. Tuvok, how much of my logs did you peruse?” She asked herself if she was purposefully trying to ignore his confession.
“As you are aware, Captain, I read with alacrity. I read its entirety beginning with your first away mission to this planet.”
Janeway’s face blushed but she held herself steady. Well, she had decided to throw caution to the wind and inform her senior staff about her relationship with Seven and she could not think of anyone more appropriate to inform first than Tuvok. Despite his transgression, in some ways she felt relief. He was a trusted friend and would have acted with the utmost discretion. Tuvok would have no feelings positively or negatively, but would offer counsel as to how the crew might react if he perceived her actions to be counter to the greater good.
She did not have the heart to fully discipline him despite the fact that Captain’s personal logs were to be kept sacrosanct. His motivation and intentions were without malice. Here was another situation she had faced in the Delta Quadrant where bending Star Fleet regulations was warranted. She let the silence continue for a moment longer.
“Tuvok, I am surprised by your behaviors. I am equally surprised by the fact that, at the time, you believed you were acting appropriately when challenging the Doctor. He was correct to continue his work.”
Tuvok remained silent and Janeway continued.
“And I have read the logs containing both his and your account of the matter and I believe he was acting in the best interests of this ship. What surprised me most was that you were acting on the needs of the one rather than the needs of the many. That was most illogical.”
Janeway watched Tuvok with a twinkle in her eye. She had already decided to play along for a bit more with her disciplinary action.
“Agreed, Captain.”
“Therefore, I should think you might wish to entertain the notion of reviewing basic Vulcan edicts regarding logic and its application in these situations for future use. As much as I can appreciate your desire to find and rescue me, the Doctor was correct in his assertions.”
“Yes, Captain.”
“And Tuvok, next time you feel the need to breach protocol regarding my personal logs, please remember this conversation. You are my oldest friend aboard and I know how painful your decision must have been. I appreciate your discretion.”
“Captain, may I say something?”
“Go on.”
“You have maintained your authority aboard Voyager under the precepts of Star Fleet protocol. You have been correct in asserting we adhere to these protocols throughout our journey home. I do not believe you have overstepped your boundaries, Captain, and in fact, I believe this is a logical and appropriate match.”
Captain Janeway realized Tuvok had offered his tactful approval when she heard the words “logical and appropriate match”. After he left her ready room she sat at her desk silently reflecting on Tuvok’s words and they warmed her heart. She hoped the remainder of the senior staff would feel the same. When the Doctor notified her from sickbay that Commander Chakotay was awake, alert and ready to return to duty, she replied she was on her way.
“He has been one of my better patients these last few days. Of course he has been unconscious,” the Doctor said as he attempted to make a joke.
“How do you feel, Chakotay?” the Captain asked as she placed a hand on his arm.
“Strange but okay. The Doctor has been filling me in on his progress and how Voyager is faring. Who would have thought Borg technology would be the cure? I’m ready and anxious to return to duty, Captain,” he said as he slid from the biobed to stand before her.
“Is he really ready, Doctor?”
“I don’t see why not. I have given him the same converted nanoprobes and the reversal of his symptoms has been complete. I will want to see him again in a few days just to make certain there are no lingering side effects.”
“Excellent, Doctor. Chakotay, before going on duty, let’s take a walk first.”
As they meandered through the corridors, Janeway every once in a while let her fingers trail along the walls. Chakotay watched her out of the corners of his eyes, wondering if she were all right. He knew not to press her for information; she would share it soon enough. They walked for a few more minutes before they came to an alcove where there was seating and a view port.
“Sometimes, when I really need to think, I come down here for a different perspective,” Captain Janeway said quietly as she took a seat.
“That’s funny…in the years we’ve been together aboard this ship, I don’t think I ever knew that. I figured you stayed in your ready room to puzzle out a dilemma,” he replied.
“You think I’m in a dilemma?”
“Aren’t you?”
“Yes. I want to share something with you before I tell the rest of the senior staff.”
Janeway took a moment to collect her thoughts and decide how she wanted to begin. She had rehearsed so many variations in her mind of late and now, when faced with the reality of telling Chakotay, she was suddenly unsure. Was she doing the right thing after all, trying to have a personal life aboard a starship when the crew depended upon her to get them home? Shouldn’t she and Seven wait until that time and if they felt the same towards one another, well, then they could let their relationship develop.
“NO!” was the resounding answer in her mind.
She took a deep breath. “While Seven and I were planet side, well, we … we developed a relationship that transcended Captain and crewmember. I believe I overstepped my boundaries with her but I must confess I don’t regret my actions. It is my intention to pursue this relationship if she feels the same towards me, which I believe she does,” she added quickly.
Chakotay said nothing for a few moments. He knew there would never be anything more than a deep abiding friendship with this woman. They had reached an easy-going relationship ever since they had spent time on that planet a few years before. He had tried to let her know how he felt then and she had made it clear she could not return anything more than friendship. Although he loved her and probably always would, her happiness was more important to him.
“I think it’s wonderful, Kathryn. You deserve to be happy and to have someone to love and who will love you,” he replied quietly taking her hand.
She squeezed his hand in return and a smile broke across her face. She had been right to follow her instincts. She had a damned fine crew and somehow, she knew they would embrace this relationship just as they had embraced others. A momentary doubt crossed her mind.
“You think the crew will tolerated their Captain in a relationship?”
“Kathryn, many wondered why you did not pursue something more … uh … more tangible than Michael.”
Her mind flew back to the Fair Haven holoprogram with Michael, the barkeep. Her cheeks colored and she looked away. Even now she still felt embarrassed at how she had manipulated the controls to make him more to her liking. How foolish she had been to think a hologram could possibly give her what Seven had. Seven’s flesh was real and warm.
“Let’s get this ship back on course for home, Chakotay,” she declared as she stood.
“Aye, aye, Captain,” Chakotay replied with a wink.
Lieutenant Torres contacted the Bridge with news that the ship was ready for warp. Seven was in Astrometrics when the call came from Captain Janeway that she was needed for an away mission with the Doctor. She had not recycled her away mission clothing and changed quickly. Ensign Kim and Tuvok had rigged a time delay viral antibody using more sophisticated nanoprobes which when activated, would make the converted ore incapable of sending further signals into space. At least for now, the inhabitants of this planet would remain safe from the intrusive qualities of the Borg. They would still be free to explore the realm of space at their own pace and civil unrest on the planet would probably continue over this and other issues.
Captain Janeway had listened to the discussions of her senior crew and realized they had developed the best method of limited interference while still maintaining the credence of the Prime Directive. Kathryn hoped this planet had a chance of becoming more technologically sophisticated once the energy emissions ceased. It had been decided that Seven and the Doctor would beam down to the same coordinates as before, inside the compound. They would plant the device with the disrupting signals, the Doctor would inject the converted nanoprobes, and they would quickly return to Voyager.
She gave the order to energize and for a moment, wishing she were with Seven instead of the Doctor. She wished she could return to the guild house and see those wonderful women just once more. She reflected momentarily on their lives and once again realized her life was here in space being an explorer and adventurer. She knew, too, the greatest adventure for her was yet to unfold. She had only to wait for Seven’s return from the planet’s surface for it to begin. Somehow, she realized with a smile, this adventure would never end.
Her comm badge beeped and the Doctor relayed the message that everything had gone smoothly. Both he and Seven were back aboard and Captain Janeway allowed a brief sigh to escape her lips.
“Telemetry from the planet, Captain,” Ensign Kim said. “Sensors indicate the device is operating and emissions are ceasing.”
“Agreed,” chimed Tuvok. “It would appear our plan has been successful, Captain.”
“Excellent,” replied Captain Janeway. She looked about at her bridge crew who awaited orders.
“Mr. Paris, resume a course for the Alpha Quadrant. It’s time we headed home.”
“Aye, aye, Captain. Course laid in.”
“Engage, full impulse. Commander,” she offered looking directly at Chakotay, “You have the bridge.
“Aye, aye, Captain. Any standing orders?”
“Only one. For the next few hours, I do not wish to be disturbed.”
“Understood.”
Kathryn Janeway took the turbolift, knowing there was only one place she wished to be at that moment. She tapped her comm badge and instructed Seven of Nine, Tertiary Adjunct to Unimatrix Zero, but also fondly known as Annika Hansen to immediately report to the Captain’s quarters. Kathryn had already prepared a welcome home celebration and she could trust Chakotay to not allow anything short of red alert to disturb them. As she entered her quarters, strong arms and a loving embrace enveloped her. She was home again.