Desperate for Seven of Nine to overcome her emotions over her desire to reproduce, Captain Janeway sends the Colonel and Seven of Nine to investigate an anomaly. Voyager meets treachery as the Captain is captured by the Dwarves.
Voyager and characters (except the Colonel) in this story are copyright of Paramount. No resemblance is intended to any person alive or dead.
The story line and the Colonel are my own.
Constructive criticism and comments are welcome on e-mail story@rgower.plus.com.
If like me you like to know why things occur like they do, I would heartily recommend you start with the Colonel
This story is rated PG13
Are you sure you need all this, Seven? B'Elanna Paris sighed, waving her arm expansively at the range of data nodes and equipment Seven of Nine had collected in the Science Lab.
I know the Captain said she would like you to find a way to prevent any child you conceive not to turn out to be a Borg. But this is getting ridiculous! There must be over a hundred data units alone, surely you haven't read them all?
Seven turned slowly from the screen she was examining. She looked tired.
One hundred thirty-two, she agreed. They were necessary for me to fully understand the full implications of the gestation cycle and the possible consequences of cross breeding. Please state the purpose of your visit?
But you won't be cross breeding! B'Elanna exclaimed. You are as human as the Colonel!
Seven regarded her impassively. You are incorrect. Whilst we posses the basic genetic code of humans; the Colonels are different at two points of decimal, because of the generation he is descended from and additional factors such as my assimilation. Also much of my body has been enhanced' by the use of Borg technology, as is the Colonel's to a lesser extent. Those technologies will infect the child. We are uncertain what the overall effects those technologies will have.
Will it matter? B'Elanna demanded. It will be human and yours, even if it does have a few Borg enhancements! What does the Colonel say?
For the first time Seven looked a little uncertain. The only stipulation he has placed is that he does not wish to plug the baby into the mains at night to recharge.
Well there you are then, B'Elanna announced. He isn't worried, why should you be?
He does not understand the full capability of my nano-probes! Seven protested. I do not wish it to suffer from assimilation.
B'Elanna stepped closer to her friend and took her gently by the arm. Perhaps he doesn't, she agreed gently. But perhaps you are putting too much faith in their capability. After all, you have stuffed him full of yours and apart from a touch of thrombosis, they did nothing to him and you had been going at him Hammer and Tongs' for nearly six months. The baby will have some of his as well!
Seven of Nine was not to be deflected as easily as that. When you and Lieutenant Paris conceive, the course of the interaction between your Klingon genes and his human genes has been well documented, she said quietly. The child will inherit features from both of you as his parents. It will maintain your facial features and some other inherent Klingon adaptations, probably your temper traits, it will however be largely human.
The interaction between the Colonel's and my own is not documented. To that must be added the uncertainty of our respective probes to adapt and assimilate different conditions. We know that if my probes are outnumbered by the Colonel's, they are adapted to behave like his. The converse is also true. It is also uncertain what effect the nanoprobes will have on the developing child. I once believed that my Borg enhancements brought me to a level of perfection that humans cannot achieve. Now I have discovered that they do not offer perfection, but rather increase the level of imperfection. I do not wish our child to be so enhanced and disadvantaged. The outcome is uncertain.
Oh, I don't know, B'Elanna commented teasingly. If it hadn't been for your Borg upbringing you wouldn't have the Colonel. He fell for you because of your Borg enhancements!
Besides when you injected a Borg it was re-assimilated. You haven't done that to the Colonel. Doesn't that suggest something? B'Elanna added, pulling Seven towards the door. It does to me!
A worried frown passed across Seven of Nines face as she considered the question. For thirty seconds she considered it, before admitting,
B'Elanna laughed. It means, you couldn't make him Borg if you wanted to. The same will be true of your baby.
Seven of Nine agreed guardedly. The Colonel has also suggested a similar relationship exists. He described it as part of love', the statement lacks logic. My nanoprobes are not affected by emotional sentiment. What are your intentions?
Still grinning, B'Elanna answered, I was going to say I was missing our arguments about efficiency in Engineering. But the truth is, nobody's seen you for a week, because you've shut yourself in here. So I'm taking you to dinner.
Seven pulled back in alarm. I do not wish to go to the Mess! I find the location uncomfortable!
People offering advice, huh? B'Elanna suggested sympathetically. I keep getting advice from people as well!
Seven looked at her quizzically.
Since Tom and I married, the number of people who have asked when we intend to start a family and advice on how to do it, you wouldn't believe! It's as much as I can do not to scream at them! She explained. As it is, we aren't going to the Mess. We are going to Brains'. Just you, me and Sam Wildman.
This was the Colonels suggestion? Seven queried uncertainly. Brains' was a simulation of an Earth night club she had visited with the Colonel as a means of getting him to relax and proving she wanted to interact with him. It had since become a firm favourite with both of them as a venue for when they wanted to remove themselves as far as possible from the crew. What surprised her most was that the Colonel was often the most in need of the break.
Actually it was mine! The Colonel said you had been working too hard. Besides he is on duty! B'Elanna claimed.
Seven of Nine looked back at her terminal. She wanted to get the tests she was carrying out completed. They had been driving her for the last two weeks, almost obsessively, as she strove to find what effect her nano-probes were going to have if she were to attempt to have a child. For the last five days she had even omitted to regenerate in the cargo bay, as more and more tests had proved inconclusive. She was beginning to think there was going to be no positive answer and she would have to trust to luck. Luck was not a solution that her logical mind would accept, even if her husband claimed he believed in it.
Her logical mind had also noted that the Colonel, with the deftness of a card sharp, modified the circumstances he was in so that luck' would be on his side.
With some reluctance she turned her look away. Your proposal is satisfactory.
The Colonel presented himself to the Captain at exactly 21:30, ready to take his shift on the Bridge as commander of the Dog Watch. His presentation had become quite routine and the Captain found she enjoyed the brief, almost comical, ceremony that accompanied it. If he did, or not, she had never managed to work out, but it was his regulations that he followed. It tended to be the highlight of an otherwise dull shift, or a calming influence on a bad one.
He would appear twenty minutes before the remains of his shift gathered, formally stand to attention, salute and request permission to step on the Bridge. This, she would grant, he would then step forward onto the balcony behind her seat, slam to a halt and stand at attention until she had inspected his turn out.
In the seven months since Cathor, she had found fault in his dress twice. One had been a loose button on his tunic, the second had been two long blonde hairs on his back. In Star Fleet, they were faults that meant nothing, but to the Colonel and his regulations they seemed to be major crimes. She was inordinately proud of having found both of them, they were the tiniest details that he stressed on the Dog Watch as being the most important clues as to what was to happen next.
If all went well with the inspection, she would have him stand at ease and could then brief him. Remembering to have him stand at ease was also important, she had forgotten the first week and he had stood stock still at attention and had barked Ma'am!' at her every comment until it seemed that the panelling on the bridge was rattling in sympathy.
When the rest of the Dog Watch assembled for the shift, their was a similar ceremony. This time conducted by the Colonel. The fact that it seemed to work and they seemed to enjoy trying to meet his exacting standards, never failed to amaze her. It seemed so foreign and strict, yet it had had its affect, the members of the Dog Watch were proud of their watch and had learned more tricks in its short existence than she had in over fifteen years in Star Fleet. It had prompted her to give them their promotions two months ago. If only because they were always the neatest crewmen on the ship. Secretly, she suspected, as a team, they could give her prime crew more than a run for their money.
She had also spent much time going over the history files on the computer to find why the Colonel followed such strict procedures. Whatever she might learn in the Delta Quadrant, she would also be an expert on the subject of the British Army.
This evening was no different, the Colonel was as always immaculately turned out, except for a brown hair on his collar. She picked it up with a flourish of victory and some surprise. A blonde hair she could understand, it would be Seven's. A brown one was different. She looked at him in puzzlement.
I'm sorry, Ma'am! He stuttered in embarrassment. I believe it may be Lieutenant Paris B's, Ma'am. She offered to ensure Mrs Nine left the lab tonight. I'm afraid I was a little forward. I am unsure if Lieutenant Paris wishes to press charges.
You kissed her! the Captain accused in merriment. I don't suppose you called her B'Elanna as well did you?
he exclaimed in sheer horror at the idea.
Well I suppose it is a start, she commented, still amused at the idea. Seven is taking the probe problem seriously?
Rather too seriously, I'm afraid, Ma'am. When the shift pattern is over I intend to distract her properly. Then perhaps I can see if this new ejector works. He grinned, then sub-consciously scratched the inside of his left arm where the probe ejection system Seven of Nine had designed to combat her periodic inoculations sat.
I'm still not happy about adding more Borg technology to your system, she confided more seriously. Is it causing you problems?
It itches, Ma'am, be agreed. But it will get better when I'm used to it. It is either that or chain her to the bed post at night. I couldn't have that! Besides when one gets involved with somebody like Mrs Nine, one has to be prepared to take the rough with the smooth.
Her grin of relief was genuine. There shouldn't be any problems tonight, but we will be passing a system with intelligent life. There doesn't seem to be any advanced space capability, but you may need to keep an eye on it. I'll see you tomorrow! She briefed him hurriedly, stifling a yawn as the rest of the watch paraded behind him.
In respect to Seven of Nine and her limited taste for rich food, Samantha Wildman and B'Elanna had persuaded the replicator system to provide The Colonel's Hot Pot', as it had become known aboard the ship; a molasses fortified variation of Lancashire Hot Pot.
Some wags aboard the ship suggested, tongue in cheek, that was why she loved him, others that it was the only meal she could actually prepare from raw ingredients. Neither was true, the Colonel enjoyed cooking, Seven of Nine did not and they each admitted it. Whatever the reasoning it was a meal that Seven of Nine had developed a taste for, when it appeared upon the Mess menu she had been seen to help herself to unusually large portions.
Otherwise the meal went quietly, B'Elanna and Samantha tactfully keeping their conversation away from the subject of reproduction until the end of the meal, when Samantha brought it up.
When are you and Tom going to make the Captain a Godmother? She asked B'Elanna, with a sly grin.
B'Elanna glared at her. What makes you think we are?
Deck 3 isn't the only one that complains about thumps in the night, Samantha Wildman observed. You have been married, she looked questioningly at Seven of Nine.
Seven months, twenty-five days, Seven supplied dutifully, curious at the teasing. Ensign Wildman had been one of only a small handful of the crew that had not offered her advice about how to extend the Samuels' Collective.
She nodded happily. See. High time! I can see him now. Tom's angelic looks and your temper, what more could you want?
Perhaps Lieutenant B'Elanna Paris's intelligence? Seven of Nine added dryly.
They laughed good naturedly at the comment. That also puzzled Seven of Nine, it had been intended as a serious statement.
Of course, he is going to have no chance compared to Seven's! Samantha laughed, turning her teasing on Seven of Nine, who stiffened in anticipation of more useless advice.
She will be as tough and as determined as you two are, just as efficient and yet still seem so helpless everybody will want to look after her. Just like we do with you both! Samantha predicted. Come on, Seven. Call up a couple of copies of your holo-Colonel. I haven't danced in months and as I can't have the real one, perhaps you'll let me dance with a replica?
Uncertainly Seven of Nine complied, though a little selfishly, she only produced the one Colonel and two others from his regiment. B'Elanna and Samantha winked knowingly at each other as Seven took the hologram of her husband in her arms for the first dance. No matter how Seven felt about learning to control her probes, the tall soldier was still guaranteed to take her attention.
They finally escorted her to Cargo Bay 2 and set her in her alcove for regeneration some two hours later, then congratulated each other on a job well done. Seven of Nine had been persuaded to relax, despite her determination to complete her quest. The Colonel would be very grateful.
Six small vessels approaching, Sir! Ensign Carver warned the Colonel from the Tactical Station.
Very good. Hail them! the Colonel ordered calmly from the Commanders seat.
Automatically Carver displayed the alien vessels on the view screen and his fingers ran over the controls to send out a general greeting.
No response, Sir! He advised after a few moments. Each shows a single life form. No weapons powered.
The Colonel was watching the screen intently, the small triangular ships were approaching in vee formation and were starting to spread out.
Shields up. Prepare tractor beams and phasors. Sound red alert, he ordered quickly. They are forming into an attack pattern. Advise when they target and keep sending universal friendship signals.
He touched his communicator. Captain to the Bridge. Immediate!
They are powering weapons, announced Carver almost immediately. But there is no serious power in them. Simple lasers.
The Colonel nodded. Lock the lead vessel with a tractor beam, target his power systems with enough clout to knock him about. No more than that. Make sure they know who we are. I think we are being tested, so keep scanning for something more serious!
There was a slight rock as Voyager was hit by the first laser blasts. It prompted the Colonel to shake his head sadly. Damage the first vessel, please, Ensign, he ordered. Don't kill it yet. We don't want any bodies to explain!
From the upper phasor array a single pale beam lanced out and caught the fighter held in the tractor beam.
Damaged as ordered, Sir! Carver proclaimed proudly, as the ship was again rocked.
Persistent buggers aren't they! the Colonel growled. Open all channels!
This is Lieutenant Colonel Samuels acting on behalf of the Commander of the Federation Starship Voyager to unidentified vessels. Stand to. I may decide to destroy the next ship to fire upon us! he claimed calmly.
Behind him the Captain appeared from the lift, Chakotay hard on her heels. She demanded, irritated at the Colonel's less than mild threat.
Begging pardon, Ma'am, he claimed. Six small single seat vessels have turned up and are intent on using us for target practice. So far they have failed to heed polite notices. I was hoping to persuade them with something a little stronger.
We don't do it like that, Colonel, she reminded him quietly. And by your regulations, you are supposed to ask permission to engage an enemy!
They fired first, Ma'am. We responded with like force. Regulations permit the use of matched force. No serious damage has been done, he commented.
They are talking to us, Sir! Carver warned quickly.
On screen, the Captain spat, stepping forward so that she could take the communication. Ready to apologise for the Colonel's threat, until a small face of a boy appeared on the screen.
It gazed at the Captain uncertainly, taking in the strange uniform. You aren't the target ship? He asked uncertainly.
Taken by surprise the Captain could only shake her head. She voiced after a moments hesitation. I am Kathryn Janeway, Captain of the Federation Starship Voyager. We are peaceful, but defend ourselves if we have to, she glared accusingly at the Colonel, who shrugged. As far as he was concerned his response was adequate for the circumstances.
I should point out we have far more powerful weapons than your vessels. Now who are you and why did you try to attack us? She demanded.
The pilot of the strange vessel blushed, then rallied. I am Flight Lieutenant Vesa of the Imperial Air Force of Komos. We are on a training flight. We thought you were the target ship, his voice trailed of in embarrassment and he looked down.
You were very nearly an ex-lieutenant, the Captain scolded crossly. Weren't you taught to identify an enemy before attacking?
The face looked up. We were told to expect an unusual vessel that would try and deceive us, he explained, going bright red.
You were very lucky, the Captain continued softening her attitude somewhat, feeling compassion for the child on the small ship. The officer in command of the watch responded with unusual restraint. If he hadn't, we would be explaining to your parents why you haven't come home.
I have no parents, he responded quickly. My flight will however guide your ship to Komos. My ship is too badly damaged to keep up.
We will tractor it into our shuttle bay. Just keep your fingers off the fire controls, the Captain announced, glancing around at Ensign Kala at Ops, who was already working the controls to carry out the Captains command.
The Captain turned towards the Colonel. Perhaps you had better meet him? she suggested. Then you can apologise.
He looked puzzled.
Never mind. You can still meet him. He might realise how lucky he is, she breezed.
Lieutenant Vesa sat at the controls of his small fighter, fearful of touching anything incase the alien ship decided to carry out it's threat and destroy his ship. When he and his flight had set off from Komos six hours previously, they had not expected to meet a strange vessel. The regular Air Force usually intercepted strange ships long before they were close enough to the home planet for training squadrons to intercept. He wondered how it would appear on his record. Attacking a seemingly friendly alien vessel would not look too well.
As his craft was gently set onto a landing space, he carefully deactivated his power systems , opened the canopy and scanned his surrounds with interest. The three other vessels in the hold were totally different from each other and his own delta winged fighter, he observed. He wondered if they were all as powerful as the heavy fighters. His eye's then tracked the actions of the others in the bay. There were four in boiler suits, under the watchful gaze of a female with yellow shoulders and bumpy forehead. They were busy watching small handheld devices, obviously scanning his vessel for anything that they thought might prove dangerous. Finally he spotted a tall man in green. He seemed to be examining him as he surveyed his surrounds. His left hand was sitting comfortably on the handle of a sword. It seemed a strange weapon on such an obviously advanced ship, he decided. It prompted him to examine the stranger more closely. He was dressed very differently to the others in the hold, it didn't seem to belong.
The stranger moved towards him, as if impatient for him to vacate the limited safety of his cockpit. Vesa noticed the way he moved, it was smooth, measured and purposeful.
He spoke quietly, but forcefully, like a Centurions. It was a voice that expected to be obeyed, his manner suggested consequences if it wasn't, yet the others in the room did not appear to be concerned by it. Perhaps it was because they were not the target. Lieutenant Vesa. I am Lieutenant Colonel Samuels. I have been requested to take you to the Captain's Ready Room for debriefing. If you would be so good as to follow me?
Devoid of choice Vesa climbed stiffly from his cockpit and tried to come to some form of attention before the imposing human.
He smiled, confidently. You have a long way to go to impress me son, after trying to attack us, he commented gently, eyeing up Vesa's own short body. If we hadn't detected how weak your weapons were you would have been scattered across the Universe by now.
Vesa swallowed uncomfortably. I am sorry, Sir! he stammered quietly.
The smile this time was more friendly. No harm done, Lieutenant. Just remember it for next time. Look before you dive in guns blazing.
The Captain weighed Vesa up carefully, her initial impression he was a child bore up when looking at him in the flesh. Barely 1.2Metres tall, with a shock of mousey brown hair and scruffy clothing, he could easily pass for a human child of about 8.
How old are you? She asked quietly, fearing confirmation of her fears.
Seventeen years, Ma'am, he admitted. I come to full maturity next year.
It was not as bad as she had feared. Why were you out here, without supervision?
We are a cadet training squadron. I was on my last test before being assigned to a defence squadron, he explained.
I have failed the test. We did not find the raider, Vesa added unhappily.
The Captain smiled at him. The best talent for a commander, Lieutenant, she advised, is not to not make mistakes but to extract yourself from them in good order. That is right isn't it Colonel?
The Colonel in his turn smiled, it was a rule he had offered to the Captain months ago. Indubitably, Ma'am! he agreed amiably.
If you want more good advice on the subject, you should ask Colonel Samuels, she whispered conspiratorially. He has taught me!
Vesa eyed the Colonel again, he was still at attention his hand still on the long blade at his side. He suspected the tall man could teach him a lot of things.
In the mean time, I'll have Ensign Kim show you the ship, the Captain announced, calling for Kim to join them in the Ready Room.
He can answer any questions you have about us, she claimed as Ensign Kim appeared in the doorway.
I don't think I am impressed. What are your impressions, Colonel? she quizzed quietly as they disappeared. I know you've formed one.
I don't think we have the key yet, Ma'am, he opined. Even if he was supposed to be in sole charge of a flight. I don't see somebody just letting him fly off without some sort of watch to prevent him getting into trouble.
I agree. When you see Seven see if she knows about the people of Komos. I assume you will be there when she comes out of regeneration?
The Colonel grinned sheepishly. Of course, Ma'am. But if Lieutenant Paris has achieved what she said she would, then Mrs Nine won't be out of regeneration for another couple of hours.
Soon enough. You are relieved, she decreed.
The Colonel slammed to attention, in customary fashion and departed.
Voyager was a marvel to Vesa, he found himself gazing at everything he saw in awe. From the advanced Astro-Navigation suite to the warp drive engines. The Imperial fleet had light drives but they were inferior by far to the system aboard this alien vessel. In comparison they were large, temperamental and potentially lethal. The tiny unit aboard Voyager was producing nearly as much power as a Star Drive on a battleship and the people were milling around it as if there was no danger involved. He wondered how quickly the technology could be used for Komos needs.
In Astrometrics Ensign Kim had patiently explained where Voyager was from and where it had started from in the Delta Quadrant. At first he had been sceptical about how far they had travelled but now appreciated how far people could fly in a vessel like this.
Now he was going over his thoughts in the Mess with Ensign Kim, with Neelix enthusiastically supplying coffee.
But where does the Colonel fit in with your ship? he asked suddenly.
We rescued him from a ship after it was attacked by the Borg, Kim explained. He is also from Earth, but from our past. It is quite a complicated story.
So what does he do?
Kim stiffened uneasily. It was not an easy question to answer, unlike Neelix and Seven, the Colonel still had no explicit role aboard the ship. He try's to make himself useful, he offered lamely, then tried to explain the answer. He does not understand the technology, simply finds ways of using it. Sometimes it makes him look simple, other times gifted. Like the sword. He has tried our weapons, but thinks the ones he uses are more effective.
Are they? Vesa asked innocently.
Again Ensign Kim shifted uncomfortably. In his hands. Yes! He agreed. Then there is his wife.
His wife?
Kim nodded warming to a well worn theme. The most beautiful woman aboard and the most unobtainable. I should know I tried to date her. She was a Borg..
A Borg! Vesa almost shouted in shock, interrupting a well versed litany from the Ensign.
Kim nodded again. We released her from the Collective.
She must not be discovered on Komos, Vesa urged. We have been raided by the Borg for more than one hundred years! She will be arrested and tried if she is discovered.
The young mans sudden revelation alarmed Ensign Kim and he leapt from his seat. We had better see the Captain!
I have been inefficient, Seven of Nine complained as the Colonel offered her a supporting hand to step from her alcove. I have neglected to review the results of my tests in Science Lab 3.
Silently the Colonel offered her two PADDS. Don't understand a word of them, he admitted happily, But I think they are the results you were waiting for.
Silently she scanned the contents before throwing them onto the computer console in frustration. My nano-probes will prevent a child forming. I will not be able to reproduce, she exclaimed in sudden passion.
She reached out for the cold comfort of the console to steady herself as her disappointment hit her harder than she had ever felt emotions before. It was the Colonel that her hand found and he griped it hard, before pulling her to his chest and wrapping his arms around her.
She seemed to give way in his arms unable to support herself.
He heard her sob. It was a sob full of pain and anguish.
I wish to reproduce. I wish to extend the Samuels Collective, she blurted.
He cradled her firmly in his arms. It will be okay, he whispered, kissing her frantically on the forehead. Just let yourself go. I will always be here for you.
That will be ineffective. I cannot maintain the Collective! I am unrepairable, She claimed desperately.
The only Collective we need at the moment is us, he replied, keeping his voice soft despite the alarm he was feeling. The rest will wait.
They stood there for over 20 minutes, the Colonel physically holding Seven of Nine upright as her emotions burnt themselves out on his shoulder.
Janeway to the Colonel. Report to my Ready Room! The Captain voice sounded on his intercom.
He growled in irritation at the interruption and spared a hand to pull the badge from his chest and dropped it on the console behind him.
It did not stop it, it squawked again. Colonel report!
Turning whilst still holding Seven, he brought his fist down hard upon the device. It no longer made a sound.
The last sound that the Captain heard was a crackle over her intercom as the Colonel's badge smashed.
Computer, what was the last location of the Colonel? she demanded in alarm.
Lieutenant Colonel Samuels was last located in Cargo Bay 2.
Identify status of the Colonel's comm badge?
The badge is non-functional.
The Captain was now thoroughly alarmed. Locate Seven of Nine?
Seven of Nine is in Cargo Bay 2, the computer announced impassively.
She turned on Ensign Kim and Vesa. Stay here until I get back! she demanded and darted for the door.
Entering the Bridge at the run, she snapped, Tuvok, you're with me. Kim, secure the Cargo Bays. Tom, delay our approach to Komos.
With that she entered the turbo lift with Tuvok on her heels.
Captain, where are we going? Tuvok asked calmly as he waited for the lift to open.
Cargo Bay 2, she panted. Something is wrong there and I don't know what. Somebody destroyed the Colonel's comm badge.
The doors open and she was running again until she came to the heavy cargo bay door, there she stopped, afraid at what she was going to find inside. She was terrified, what of she did not know. But for the Colonel to lose his comm badge, or not reply, even to say he was going to be delayed for a while, then what ever it was was serious, potentially even lethal.
Tuvok, catching some of his Captains alarm, opened the door for her as soon as he caught up and they both entered phasors in hand. They found the Colonel sitting on a container, cradling Seven of Nine in his arms, her head resting on his shoulder, asleep.
He looked up at them as the darted in, his face full of pain and despair, he whispered. She is asleep!
They stopped and stared at him incredulously. Why didn't you answer my hail? the Captain demanded furiously. Why did you destroy the comm badge? What happened? she added, spotting the remains of the instrument on the console.
He glared at her, his own temper on a short fuse. Because it was inopportune! he hissed coldly. My wifes needs are greater than yours at present. If you will excuse me. Now you have unlocked the doors, I will take her to our quarters!
I'll send the Doctor, the Captain announced quickly. Then I want a report.
The Colonel glared at her again, his face hardening to the point of fury. I will not let him past the door, Ma'am. If you want a report you may accompany me.
She had never seen the Colonel look so angry before. Stunned by the hostility, she simply nodded and stood aside as the Colonel gently carried Seven of Nine out of the bay.
Tell the Doctor, she whispered to Tuvok as the Colonel passed out the door, he may be needed. But I'm not sure who for. Then hurried after the Colonel.
She was allowed to watch him gently lay Seven of Nine on the bed and cover her gently with the duvet, then he bundled her out the room and turned to face her. His face softening as the door close behind him.
I'm sorry, Ma'am! He declared in more neutral tones. I supplied her with her test results. They weren't the ones she wanted!
He turned and slammed his fist into the wall in a sudden bought of frustration, then again as his own emotions caught up with him. Then he leaned against the wall, burying his head in his arm. If I wasn't so thick I would have understood the damned results! he sighed in a broken voice.
She was so counting on them being positive. I don't know what to do next!
The Captain put her arm around him, trying to comfort the soldier. She had seen him like this before and it was terrifying. His devotion to the care of others, particularly Seven of Nine, was about the only thing that could break him. She would have found out, she whispered.
Not if I had understood the results! he wept. I would have done anything to prevent her. Even falsifying them if I had to!
Would you like me to see if there was a flaw in her tests? the Captain asked gently.
He considered the proposal carefully before replying. There is already a flaw in them, Ma'am. She carried them out. I think telling her her tests were flawed would cause more harm, he sighed, then rallied. I will find a way to put her back together again. I think we may ask to leave the ship, at least for a little while. If we can't have the first item on her wish list, the next will be even more important. I intend her to have that whatever it costs!
And what is that? she asked quietly.
To discover the galaxy for herself, Ma'am.
The grin that accompanied the statement was desperate, but the Captain knew what he meant. Seven was fascinated by the physics of the Universe, the life forms that inhabited it were largely an irrelevant inconvenience.
She nodded. How would you survive? she asked quietly.
I'll look after that!
She did not like the answer. She did not doubt that the Colonel meant it and would probably achieve it for a long time, but they needed other things in their life. But it was unlikely she would get him to change his mind if he had set it.
This is not a good place for an ex-Borg to be! She warned. Vesa has told me that any Borg are summarily tried and executed if they are caught. I don't think even you can provide the protection she will need.
If they are as professional as Lieutenant Vesa, I am less than worried, he growled.
Sit with her for as long as you want, she suggested gently. I will not let anybody interfere. I know it looks bad now. Remember, Seven is tougher than you are in these circumstances. She will recover, because you will make sure she does. Just remember there are others aboard the ship who will help put you together as well!
He nodded unhappily. I'm sorry, Ma'am. I have allowed my emotions to take control, he bowed to her and re-entered his quarters.
There he dragged a chair beside the bed and settled uncomfortably into it, grasping Seven of Nine's hand as he waited.
The Captain returned to her Ready Room in deep thought.
She barely noticed Ensign Kim and Lieutenant Vesa still waiting as instructed, until Kim coughed politely.
She turned to them cautiously. I will keep Seven away from Komos! She announced. Harry, look after our guest, until we can return him. Dismissed.
As they left she summoned Chakotay and Tuvok to her room. When they entered she bade them to sit and briefly went over what had transpired between her and the Colonel and Vesa's warning.
The Colonel is desperate for her to forget the problem, she finished. If that means he thinks she needs to leave the ship so that she can do it, then he will take her. I don't know how to stop him!
Do you think there is a possibility Seven made a mistake in her testing? Chakotay asked hopefully.
The Captain glared at him. They were Seven's tests. What do you think?
Basically the Colonel is correct in his assumption, Tuvok commented. Until she met the Colonel, Seven of Nine's interests were entirely in astronomical studies. I will endeavour to find a suitable subject. Perhaps we can keep Seven busy?
The Captain favoured him with a grateful smile. Do it! she urged. I will go through Seven's tests and see if there is a possibility of error. But just remember we are going to have to play this the way the Colonel plays us, with the subtlety of a Ferrengi Grand Negis.
Seven of Nine stirred from her sleep slowly, gently stretching from her curled up position. The Colonel sensing the movement, snapped alert from his own light doze and watched her intently, sliding off his chair and kneeling beside her ready for anything. She still looked a mess from the crying, her eyes red and puffy.
Feeling better? he asked, as her eye's finally opened and fixed upon his worried face.
I experienced emotional overload? she asked cautiously.
His brow crinkled quizzically. I think we could reasonably say you had an emotional overload, he agreed gently. Would you like a cup of tea?
That will assist in the repair?
He shrugged. It has never done any harm and your tolerance to alcohol is too low for a
A
It starts as tea, then is laced with rum. Hence it Was a' cup of tea. Quite fortifying, he explained.
Acceptable. You will provide a she demanded.
Are you sure? He asked quietly. It almost put the Captain on her back when I gave her one!
I am already on my back, she pointed out matter of factly. I am unable to fall further.
He smiled, Seven of Nine was coming back to life, demanding to try things that were outside of her experience. Suit yourself, he agreed turning to the replicator.
She watched cautiously as he poured two mugs of tea, then decanted a small quantity of dark fluid from a bottle he retrieved from a draw. He handed a mug to her and took a swig at his own. With some trepidation she sniffed at her cup. It did smell different beneath the alcohol, slightly richer, she decided, then took a brave sip and coughed as it burnt her mouth, not just from the temperature.
He grabbed the cup from her hand just as she entered into a fit of coughing.
As I said. Your tolerance for alcohol is too low for a Wassa, he claimed as she settled back onto the bed.
The flavour and after effects were unexpected, my tolerance to alcohol is not at question! she exclaimed, her voice slurring a little.
You want to try more? he offered the mug back to her. She shook her head, then regretted it, the Colonel's high powered 120% proof rum was having an effect on it already, it felt loose.
He leaned forward again and kissed her gently on the forehead.
That felt altogether more acceptable, she decided and pulled him down to do repeat the exercise.
I'm still on duty, he whispered, feeling himself give way to her gentle pulling.
She pulled him closer. I do not wish to be alone, she whispered back.
I won't leave you alone, he promised, giving in and taking her in an embrace. I love you too much to do that!
They lay, wrapped in each others arms, for another thirty minutes without speaking, simply finding comfort in each others presence.
Finally Seven broke the peace. I am still be unable to reproduce. Do you wish to maintain our collective?
He took her head and held it, forcing her to look him in the eyes. You have got yourself closer to me and made me happier than anybody in God-only-knows years. I'm not going to let that go, just because we might not have children! He said firmly, locking his eyes on hers. I can only interact with the here and now. What tomorrow will bring I will leave to the Lord and schemers with ambition and deal with it when it arrives. You are my here and now', it is all I need and want!
There was no dispute in the voice, simple, forcefully put and satisfactory, Seven decided. You should return to your duty, she stated. I am sufficiently recovered. I shall resume my testing.
he snapped.
She snapped a surprised look at him.
Just wait for a while. All you are doing is going round in circles, it is making you think you are less than you are! Nothing is worth that much pain. Give them a rest and see what inspiration tomorrow brings? he continued more gently. Besides we may have a chance to get away for a while on Komos.
Seven of Nine repeated, matching the term with her memories. Species 10032. Dwarf race. Technologically inferior. Assimilated occasionally for use as repair drones. Their short stature and strength makes them suitable for duties in parts of vessels not normally accessible. I can not go to Komos, they terminate drones they capture.
You are not a drone, the Colonel pointed out. You are my wife. Termination will not be an option for them!
You should return to your post. Seven pointed out again.
He looked at his watch. Posted duty was completed two minutes ago, he proclaimed happily. I am now at the disposal of the superior officer present. Your instructions, Ma'am?
She looked at him in puzzlement for five seconds as she worked out what he meant, then relaxed. Your orders were to care for me?
Captain was most insistent, Ma'am!
She considered that statement for a moment. Under the circumstances the Colonel probably had not given the Captain much choice.
You will continue to care for me for 1.63 hours! she announced. You may then assist me in my maintenance rounds.
Three hours later Captain Janeway ordered them to attend her Ready Room. She finished reading a PADD at her desk before glancing up and smiling. They could almost be two peas in a pod when they were stood beside each other like that, she decided. Both were ram rod straight, hands clasped firmly behind their backs, legs slightly apart, looking straight ahead.
She was, for her part, slightly nervous about how she was going to present her orders. She had spent nearly thirty minutes in consultation with Chakotay and Tuvok over how to propose the task. The advice she took in the end was Tuvoks; Be blunt.
I have decided we are going to Komos to see if we can gain materials to complete our repairs, She announced. But it could be dangerous for Seven to be found. They have a thing about Borg. So Tuvok has found something slightly better. There is a magnetic anomaly approximately six light years ahead. We don't know what it is, but it is on our flight path. I Want you two to check it out? It will save time and give you something interesting to do, if there is a problem at either end we can collect you on the way.
Seven responded immediately. The Colonel believes I have devoted too much time to my immediate quest and it is impairing my performance.
The Captain glanced at the Colonel questioningly. He nodded imperceptibly.
She opened with another smile. Excellent! You can go as soon as you can load the shuttle.
Seven turned sharply and left, leaving the Colonel behind for a moment. Permission to speak, Ma'am?
She nodded her acceptance.
Thank you, Ma'am! he intoned. But it was put unusually for you?
I was going to try and bluff you into volunteering Seven, she admitted in embarrassment, But Tuvok suggested making it into an order. We could never bluff you into volunteering, if it wasn't dangerous.
I wondered, Ma'am, he admitted with a wry grin. He slammed to attention, saluted then turned on his heal and rapidly followed Seven of Nine.
Six hours and much frantic scrounging from Seven of Nine for any parts she might need, the Colonel's favoured shuttle, the Valorian Starfighter, took to the air with the Colonel at the controls.
The craft itself was a very different ship to how it started life. In the six months Voyager had been in the void, Seven of Nine and B'Elanna Paris, fired by boredom, had systematically stripped the equipment inside and replaced it. Changing it's nature from fighter to small, but competent, exploration ship. In many ways it was now far superior to the Delta Flyer, losing only in outright speed and accommodation, three people aboard was now definitely considered cramped. Seven of Nine was particularly proud of the new science and astro-navigation suite. She had modelled it upon her astro-metrics suite aboard Voyager, smaller and not as powerful, it could still pinpoint its position within a 300 light year radius and possessed a sensor suite that could detect more than thirty million anomalous features', as such it was superior to any sensor suite fitted to a shuttle and more than a few Star Ships.
The Colonel for his part, preferred the small vessel simply because he found the controls more natural to use, preferring the feel of a flight stick, throttle and rudder controls, to the Flyers touch sensitive displays. He also didn't get Lieutenant Paris's accusing stare and worried glances if he was at the controls. The Flyer was the Lieutenant's toy, he worried about the scratches, the Captain had commented in amusement when Tom Paris had inspected it carefully after a particularly fraught training flight with the Colonel at the controls.
Course 300.120Zee35, Warp 3, Seven of Nine instructed settling to her console. Preferred or not, the Colonels take-offs could still be uncomfortable.
Course 300.120Z35, laid in and set. Engaging Warp 3, Ma'am! The Colonel parroted confirmation to his mission commander. Estimated arrival 49 hours.
He turned in his seat to look at her concentrating on her controls. If you've left the gas on in quarters it is now too late to remember, he commented cheerfully.
She glanced at him in puzzlement. There is no gas supply in our quarters.
A turn of phrase, he apologised. People always forget something vital when they go on holiday. The gas, the milk deliveries, the cat, there is always something.
We do not posses any of those things. Nor are we on holiday'. We are performing a scientific expedition, she pointed out. My preparations were efficient. We have forgotten nothing. In the unlikely event we have forgotten something essential the replicator system aboard this vessel is capable of producing it.
Of course it can, he agreed. But it is nice to know we don't have to back again, unless we want to?
She caught the suggestion. You wish to leave Voyager? She demanded quickly.
He shrugged. I go where I'm told to go. Those are my orders. My home is with you.
He smiled and returned to his own instruments, leaving her to make her own conclusion. Seven of Nine had faith in everything technological. Why she put as much faith in her husband was another mystery, he was anything but technological.
Your suggestion has merit, Seven said a few moments later, briefly looking up from her instruments.
I hope they remember they have a home here! the Captain murmured to Chakotay as they watched the small craft disappear. I hope we are doing the right thing!
They will be back, Chakotay assured her. The Colonel left his Colours' with you. Has he ever explained what they mean to you?
Honour, duty, strength. Yes! she sighed. But Seven might mean more.
She turned back to her more immediate concerns. Tom, bring us into Komos.
We are being hailed, Captain, Tuvok announced an hour later.
Put them on screen, she demanded standing up and smoothing her jacket.
The face that appeared on the screen was not dissimilar to Vesa's, she noted. He looked like a young child and just as untidy, his shirt appeared to be done up incorrectly, his hair a mop.
I am Captain Kathryn Janeway, she intoned, Commander of the Federation Star Ship Voyager. We request permission to enter orbit, barter for materials to repair our ship and return a member of your air force to you. A Lieutenant Vesa?
The small figure nodded. I am General Hallock, Captain. I am aware of the circumstances of Lieutenant Vesa's presence aboard your ship. I apologise for his attack upon your vessel. He will be punished. His voice sounded high enough for a child as well.
He caused no damage, the Captain responded hurriedly. We would not have come close enough to make contact otherwise.
I will consider your plea on his behalf Captain, he assured her. I will supply coordinates for landing. You will be permitted to send small party's of your crew for recreational purposes.
Thank you. We will look forward to it, she thanked him. Janeway out.
Two hours later, Captain Janeway in the company of Tuvok, B'Elanna and Vesa beamed to the coordinates supplied. They were met by a contingent of twenty dwarfs, none more than 1.4 metres tall. The Captain recognised the foremost as the one that had identified himself as General Hallock and was still untidy.
He stepped forward. Captain Janeway. Welcome to Komos!
These guards will escort Lieutenant Vesa into custody, he waved to a group of eight Komon's. They were obviously guards of some sort, she decided; they wore uniforms. But the similarity ended there, guards even in Star Fleet managed to keep their tunics done up correctly. For once she was glad the Colonel was not with them. She could almost see the look he would give them, it was bad enough when he glared at security, the glare here would melt them.
She looked down on him with a jaundiced eye. I was hoping you would assign him as our guide? she confided hopefully. We don't want to do anything against your customs and offend people!
The General looked keenly at Vesa. You can face your trial later, he declared. You will be their liaison! Take them to the citadel.
I'm glad the Colonel isn't here, B'Elanna whispered to Tuvok as they were escorted away by their shambling guards. He would have a fit at this lot!
I am in agreement, Tuvok admitted. It might however prevent him attempting to smarten security.
They found themselves in a large comfortably furnished room. Unusually for such a seemingly dwarf race, it bad plenty of head room. It was comforting after having to bow almost double to get through some of the doors they had encountered.
We have some visitors over 3 metres tall, Vesa apologised over the high ceilings. Will you be comfortable here?
I think so, she agreed readily. Will you really be put on a charge?
He nodded. Mistakes are not tolerated. I will lose my place in the air force at least. Thank you for asking for me to be your helper.
He looked as if he would add more, but stopped himself as General Hallock returned with another party. This time they were bearing trays of food and drink.
Please make yourselves comfortable. We always try to make our guests comfortable, he urged, signalling for the trays to be placed on the small coffee tables. He took a small armchair for himself and helped himself from the delicacies piled upon the tray in front of him.
Please, Captain, tell me about your ship and why you are in our space? he asked, spraying crumbs.
The Captain and her Away Team relaxed into chairs and started to enthral the small General with their journey.
You mean you have beaten the Borg every time you have faced them? The General asked at the end. Even captured one of their number?
Captain Janeway considered the questions carefully before replying. I don't think we have ever beaten them, she said carefully. We have simply never been caught. As for Seven of Nine, she joined us. She has some Borg implants still, but otherwise she is much Borg as you are. In fact one of our party married her!
General Hallock grinned. Lieutenant Vesa told you we try then execute any Borg we capture and you are trying to protect the one you have? I will meet it and decide for myself whether that is necessary.
I sent her on a short exploration expedition out of your sector. There is an anomaly some six light years away that we find interesting. We will pick them up again when we leave, the Captain breezed. We are an exploration vessel and it is in our directives not to offend races, if at all possible. But you are welcome to visit our ship. I understand you are attacked periodically by the Borg?
General Hallock nodded. For over three hundred years we have been periodically raided. But we know how to deal with them now. They still try, but they haven't taken many for many years, he explained. May I bring some of my officers to see your vessel, it may help us to devise new defensive measures? We will of course reciprocate for your crew?
Of course.
Also if you can make up a list of what you need for repairs Vesa will try find our equivalents? Now, I suppose you will wish to return to your vessel? You are welcome to visit our planet at anytime.
The Away Team was escorted back to their arrival point. The General waited until they had dematerialised before turning to Vesa. Send vessels to track the Borg and its craft, he demanded.
The shuttle bearing the Colonel and Seven of Nine had an uneventful, but not dull, journey. Characterised by companionable silence and gentle affections, as they took turns to monitor their small ships progress and each other. The Colonel was still worried about Seven of Nine's seemingly obsessive desire to breed. Her recovery also made him ill at ease, it promised problems for the future. As it was not causing problems for the time being he put it aside.
Hoping to keep their quiet mission that way, they approached their target location with some caution. Both were examining their instruments carefully. Seven of Nine trying to ascertain the nature of the fluxes that they had come to investigate, deftly switching between sensor configurations, the Colonel simply trying to avoid anything they might meet.
They both spoke up simultaneously as they both came to a conclusion about their readings, drowning each other out.
Sorry, Ma'am! the Colonel backed down to his mission commander.
The magnetic fluxes we are investigating are not natural, Seven of Nine repeated. They are being amplified.
He grunted an acknowledgement. Wouldn't form some form of pen for a number of broken ships, would it? he asked. I have at least fifty appearing on the screen.
Seven of Nine agreed, rapidly resetting her instruments. We should move closer to investigate.
The Colonel applied power dutifully and allowed their small ship to drift towards the suspect dots that showed on his proximity screen. He felt himself tense as they flew closer, now he was checking through the cockpit windows as often as he was checking the screens, his hands gripping and re- griping the controls, ready for an immediate response to whatever came next. There was something wrong and he did not know what it was, it was a situation he did not like.
I have detected 330 vessels, Seven of Nine reported. Many are of a form I recognise, including a Federation Star Ship, others are unknown.
Why are they there? he asked. Any life signs?
I am unsure, she admitted. You will have to approach closer.
Is there anything there to prevent us getting clear again? he asked before complying.
she decreed. I will track the density of the flux and advise if it increases beyond our engines endurance.
Can we contact Voyager and let them know what we have found so far?
Negative, the flux is affecting our transmissions, she reported after a couple of moments.
Okay, you're the boss! he sighed closing the gap between them and the trapped ships.
There are many vessels displaying low power signatures and life support, she commentated as they closed. I can detect no life signs. Many vessels display the signs of having been attacked.
Space is unfriendly, the Colonel observed as they approached a derelict vessel.
It looked familiar to the Colonel, though he was certain he had never seen it before. A saucer section sat upon a thick neck, the neck in turn was attached to a cylinder, two smaller cylinders were sat upon spindly stems attached to the rear of the cylinder.
Is that the Federation ship? he asked in the end.
Seven of Nine looked up from her instruments. Early Federation Excelsior Class Star Ship, she confirmed. In it's time the most powerful vessel in the Alpha quadrant, now considered almost defunct. Compliment 520. There are no life signs, life support minimal. Power readings suggest the vessel has been deactivated for storage. There is no serious damage apparent.
They continued to close the ancient vessel.
Scorch marks on the top of the saucer, would that be about the Bridge? The Colonel asked.
Affirmative. But the damage is insufficient for abandonment.
He pivoted around the ship and they passed the lower side. Apart from more scorch marks there appeared to be no serious damage.
Can you tell what they could have been hit with? the Colonel asked eventually.
The effects have dissipated, Seven of Nine proclaimed. The scorch marks may be produced by almost any energy based weapon. They may have been trapped by the magnetic fluxes, though that seems unlikely at current levels.
I suppose we could go and have a look? he offered unenthusiastically. His sixth sense was still screaming of danger, but he could not find it.
Life support is adequate. We should investigate, she affirmed.
I'll bring us down just beside the neck' on the saucer, the Colonel announced. I don't want to leave our transport floating around. There is something not quite kosher here.
Seven of Nine beamed them both to Engineering and immediately set about inspecting the control consoles, whilst the Colonel inspected the surrounds.
The ship was powered down systematically, Seven of Nine reported. There is sufficient power to make the vessel operational.
And there was a very brief fire fight, the Colonel added, indicating two faint shadows on the floor. Who ever they were fighting were pretty good, they appear to have come from a direction they weren't expecting. Certainly not through the door.
He looked up and spotted an open ventilation duct displaying more scorch marks and grinned. But perhaps not that good? I think we visit the Mess and the Bridge, in that order. He turned for the door.
I fail to see the logic in going to the Mess, Seven of Nine argued, hurrying after him.
Because it will be on the way and we will get some idea of how quickly they were attacked, the Colonel explained. If the dishes are still in place, the ship was overpowered quickly. If they are across the floor, there was a hell of a fight. If there are none at all they knew what was coming or whoever took it have had a hell of a cleaning spree. Remember how many there are in Neelix's Mess at all hours, there will be more on a ship this size.
The Colonel was correct. The Mess showed signs of having been in use immediately prior to the attack, there were over a dozen plates still on the tables, though there was no food upon them.
Orderly evacuation, he mused. Nobody was in a hurry, so they finished their meals first. Come on, the Bridge. We'll see if you can break into the logs?
The Bridge looked as if there had been a fight, all be it brief. Five small shadows showed the signs of the end of at least five people, attackers or crew it was impossible to tell. Again Seven of Nine settled at a terminal whilst the Colonel investigated everything else, before finally settling into the large armchair that dominated the centre of the derelict bridge. Quietly he slid his hand down the side of the cushion and traced its line and found a small object. He pulled it out, a key, possibly to a strong box. He gazed at it, as if it was going to tell him everything he wanted to know.
I have deciphered the logs, They are damaged but largely recoverable. Seven of Nine interrupted his reverie. The Captain was Captain Mike Hannah, the ship the USS Argonaut. They were captured fifty years ago.
Automatically she played the first from the point she thought most appropriate.
The people of Komos seem remarkably friendly and contrite about their attack upon us, the voice of Hannah played for them. We were well entertained by Lieutenant Vesa and General Hallock and have brought several parties aboard to return the favour. We are almost ready to resume our journey home after recharging our batteries.
All's well so far, if a little familiar. I wonder of Vesa is a common name? But you have more to play? the Colonel suggested.
Commander Morris and his party have disappeared on shore leave. He has not been happy with our progress for sometime. I wonder if he has decided to remain with our beneficent hosts rather than take on what still remains a long and possibly fruitless voyage.
Did he?
Seven of Nine raised an eye-brow at him and played the next part.
Commander Adamskov has discovered a number of stowaways from Komos led by Lieutenant Vesa. I am having them brought to the Bridge to find out why, before we leave. We still have not found Morris and his party. General Hallock has advised us that they have asked to stay. He has accepted their request.
That was the last recording, Seven reported.
Tuvok would describe that as vague and circumstantial, the Colonel mused. What do you think?
I think Voyager is in danger, Seven of Nine responded immediately.
So do I, the Colonel agreed, still looking at the key in his hand. But I think Hannah was careless. Fortunately Captain Janeway is more careful than he was, she would never lose the key for the destruct switch. And she is confident enough to realise that missing crew is not abandonment. Let us hope that they think she is like him. Shall we go?
Fifteen minutes later the Colonel was launching their ship from the underside of the old Star Ship.
There is another vessel moving! Seven of Nine warned. It appears of similar construction to the Komos fighter.
The Colonel responded immediately, bringing their ship back into close proximity with the larger vessel. Have they detected us? he asked quickly.
Negative. We are being masked by the Argonaut, Seven of Nine affirmed. I will advise on a suitable evasion course as their course becomes clear.
There will be more about, he warned.
I will keep an eye open for them as well, she promised.
Thirty minutes later Seven of Nine piped up again. Another small vessel has entered the area, six other vessels are taking station around the anomaly. We will not be able to escape undetected.
Can we out run them? he asked quickly.
Again she checked her instruments. We would be faster, but we would be within weapons range for 10.3 minutes. We may not survive the engagement.
We had better ask them to move then, he suggested mildly.
You intend to ask them to move? Seven of Nine queried, the eyebrow moving.
Asking might be a little simplistic. But yes!
He did not answer immediately, but sat and thought. Could we get this tub moving? he asked quietly, pointing at the Argonaut.
You are intending to use the ship as a decoy? Seven asked, considering the question. It would require several hours, we would be detected.
Actually I was going to blow a hole through them, he claimed, waving the key he had found. How about if I gave them the run-around?
I would require assistance. It is not as automated as Voyager.
Bugger! Is there anything more manageable here?
I will check. You need to take course 39.24Z13. One quarter impulse to avoid detection.
Roger, Ma'am, he agreed launching their craft again. Out the corner of his eye he saw the stern of a small fighter nosing its way past another of the derelicts.
There is a Hirogen ship 300Km on the port bow. The engines are still powered, Seven volunteered. I believe I can guide you there without being detected?
Lead on, the Colonel agreed.
An hour later the shuttle was in close contact with the Hirogen and Seven of Nine was studying her readouts closely. Some damage to the port engine, the control room has been significantly damaged. No life signs. It will be adequate.
Do you need help? the Colonel asked.
She considered the prospect carefully, the Colonel's protection would be a benefit, his technical expertise would not. Assistance to redirect controls will not be required, she decided. You will need to keep our ship masked.
Go armed then, he suggested.
She nodded at him, clipped her belt around her waist, followed by a tricorder and phasor and beamed out. The Colonel redirected his screens to the task of tracking the ships that were searching for them.
Seven of Nine scanned her beam down site carefully. The instruments aboard the Valorian shuttle had claimed there were no dangers aboard, but she had learnt some of the Colonel's caution in these circumstances. Satisfied that there was no immediate danger she made her way towards the engineering section.
The room, like the rest of the ship, was devoid of signs of life. Several consoles were damaged, but they did not appear to be critical. She set to work. The longest and most difficult operation was to gain navigation control from engineering. It was there she started, accessing the inside of several control panels and performing rapid reprogramming.
Twenty minutes later, she felt the familiar itching of the Colonel contacting her using their implants. He must have moved the shuttle, she decided. The Borg implant inserted in the back of his head had a very short range, less than 50 Metres normally, unless they were both attempting to concentrate.
They have got their act together. They are now running a coordinated search, he advised. You have about fifteen minutes.
I will need thirty, she thought back.
Roger. I will keep an eye on them and turn everything off, if they look as if they might see us.
She returned her concentration to her reconfiguration tasks. Gaining final control of navigation was proving more difficult than she anticipated.
She left engineering, her tricorder in hand and headed towards the control room. Scanning the course of the various circuits as she walked. She found a likely junction box and examined the circuits before confidently resuming her reworking.
A short while later she felt a new signal. She stopped for a moment to consider it. It was a type she had not received for many months and it sent a chill through her. A Borg vessel was approaching.
The realisation left her uncertain as to how to proceed. If she used her implant to warn the Colonel, the Brog would detect it. If she used her communicator, the Korans would. She returned to her task with renewed vigour, hoping that the Colonel would detect the presence of something new.
She completed her tasks with three minutes to spare and settled to wait nervously for the Colonel's next instruction, still not daring to try and transmit a warning.
The Colonel had reviewed his position carefully. Unlike the larger Argonaut, the Hirogen ship was largely devoid of nooks and ledges to hide a large shuttle in or behind. It meant that the Valorian shuttle was hidden purely by the virtue of being a black ship attached to a black hull, in silhouette it would show, even if he turned the power off. The realisation forced him to slide into Seven of Nine's station and investigate the other local options. He was by no means an expert on the advanced sensor suite, but he could manage the imaging equipment.
He used it to examine the three nearest vessels in detail. The first he examined looked like a huge breeze' block. He estimated it was well over half mile tall, perhaps two long. His analogy with a breeze block proved accurate. There was a large hole in the side. Quickly he identified it's position and course, then slipped back to his seat to check on the progress of the other vessels.
They were not in sight.
Quickly he extended the sensor range to find them. They were sailing away, even the stray sensor signals from the guard ships were thin enough not to detect the stealthy Valorian fighter. He sighed with relief, and slowly applied power to launch his craft at the hole he had found. Too much power and the movement would be detected, not enough and he would not reach his target before the enemy returned. It was a fine balancing act, that had him controlling direction, thrust and the antics of the enemy with full concentration. He did not pick up the signals Seven of Nine had identified.
What he did pick up was the Koran fighters turn to begin their return search and he applied a little more power to hit the gap in the block shaped vessel before he was detected, finally slipping in just before they came in range of their sensors.
The gap proved to be a large hold, with exits at both sides of the vessel. A number of large containers were still located inside and he brought his craft to rest beside one of those. Nobody would be able to detect his ship, unless they physically came inside, yet he could see most of what was happening outside. He checked his watch, it would be another 10 minutes at least before Seven of Nine's estimate expired.
He was about to emerge from his hiding place again, when he spotted the Koran fighters heading directly for his hiding place. Quickly he brought the ship to a halt and waited for the indicator that would prove that he had been detected, hands held over the weapons controls.
They streaked past less than 100 miles away without detecting him. In fact, apart from high exhaust emissions, the Colonel picked up no transmissions of any sort from the two ships as they sped past.
Puzzled, he slid forward again to confirm the readings. There was still nothing. Cautiously he slid the craft clear of its hiding place. It was there that he was hit by the sound of a million voices rattling inside his head. Mentally he reeled from the impact, as his own voices added to the chaos in his head. The analytical one calmly pointed out the danger from a Borg vessel. A more excited one shouted yelled at him to collect Seven of Nine and scram. A desperate one screamed for him to stop the noise. None were helpful.
With a supreme effort he examined the screens in front of him, trying to focus enough to find the Borg ship as his head swam from the noise. He picked up a fuzzy reading about 5000 miles away. He hoped it would be far enough away for him not to be detected and slid the shuttle towards the Hirogen ship with Seven of Nine aboard. At the same time he risked a communicator message to Seven.
If you didn't know already. We have Borg company, three ships, I think. The Komans have buggered off. I'm coming to collect. Why are they so noisy and how do I stop it?
Seven of Nine's response was thankful. She had also been alarmed at the level of overriding confusion that was being transmitted from the invading ships. Affirmative. The vessels must be badly damaged for such extremes of transmission.
In the large locker behind my station there are neural suppressors, they may be sufficient to dampen the interference, she continued calmly. Imagination was still not her strong point, but from the level of confusion she could feel, she knew how the Colonel, unused to the collective mind and the continuous murmur it induced, must be struggling to control himself.
The Colonel reached for the locker Seven of Nine had identified and found the two devices she had described, found the switch on one and clamped it beside the implant on his neck. Immediately the noise was reduced to a level he could concentrate.
He inspected the screens again and picked up the course the three vessels were taking.
Seven, they are coming to have a look at the derelicts. Lay low, he ordered.
He turned everything he could off to cut his own transmissions and allowed his vessel to drift silently towards the Hirogen ship hiding Seven of Nine. Finally bringing it into contact with the vessel with a loud clang. The noise shook them both as it echoed around their respective ships, but it was not so hard it would be picked up by the Borg vessels.
They waited nervously, not daring to operate scanners or communicate with each other, for fear of the transmissions being picked up. Nor even being able to see their prospective foe. The only indication either of them had that the Borg were still in the area were the transmissions that they were both receiving and trying hard to ignore.
Captain Janeway and Commander Chakotay dutifully bade farewell to one party, then welcomed yet another from Komos. General Hallock seemed to have a desire for everybody to inspect the foreign vessel. In the last three days over sixty dignitaries had appeared, been escorted around then sent home again with good wishes from the Captain. In addition the transporter logs had shown nearly 600 others had come aboard on other pretexts, science, cultural, noseyness. The Captain had left the task of controlling their activities to Tuvok, though the ineluctable Vulcan was now uncertain how many had come aboard and how many had departed. The transporter logs suggested that several more had left than had arrived, a situation that was impossible and he had been forced to carry out a physical head count in the transporter room every time parties came and went.
Nor had the hospitality been one way, nearly half the crew had had the opportunity to visit Komos and B'Elanna Paris had nearly all the materials she needed to finish repairs to the ship. Satisfied that all was now ready, the Captain was now anxious to set off on the journey home again and collect Seven of Nine and the Colonel, if they had not decided to branch off on their own.
You must come to the formal ball! General Hallock insisted. When she told him of her decision.
You and your senior officers. We do not get many friendly visitors, he added enthusiastically.
She smiled and agreed good naturedly.
Thus it was she, Commander Tuvok, Lieutenants Vorick and Tom Paris and Neelix beamed down to Komos to attend the last function before they set off again. B'Elanna had elected to stay behind to finish her preparations in Engineering, Kim had volunteered to assist.
They were escorted to the reception room in which they had first been shown to on arrival. Only this time the comfortable furniture had been removed in favour of a large clear area and a table to seat fifty of the dwarf Komon's plus their guests.
Seven of Nine felt the chaos in her mind slacken and relaxed a little as she recognised new commands amongst the melee. The Borg were pulling out and they had not detected the two humans. She risked a brief communicator message to the Colonel to translate the new orders and was relieved by his instant reply. It had been a lonely twenty hours with out his comforting presence, while the Borg had been investigating the stockpile of old ships.
Aboard the shuttle the Colonel immediately set to work. He initiated a quick sensor sweep that located the three Borg vessels and their course. It had him cursing and contacting Seven of Nine.
Seven, get that ship moving. Do it slowly, he demanded. The Borg are heading for Komos, or too close for comfort. We have to get a message through to Voyager before they sail straight into them!
We will not be able to use communicators until the Borg reach Komos, Seven of Nine pointed out, not to spoil the Colonel's intentions, more to inspire him into some form of solution.
Just get it moving with a constant acceleration. Set a course that is almost parallel to them but converging. If there are shields bring them up. When you are happy, shout and I will lift you out. We'll worry about signalling Voyager later.
I am ready! Seven of Nine reported fifteen minutes later. I have configured the shields to initiate when the vessel has been detected.
Even better! The Colonel agreed, activating the transporter to return her to the shuttle.
He met her as she expected, with open arms and a passionate kiss. She accepted and appreciated both. A quick glance around the cabin showed what the Colonel had been doing during their enforced idleness.
He had systematically emptied his pack, removing anything not required in battle, then repacked. He had also changed into full battle dress from his usual bottle-green suit. She guessed that the rest of the time he had used to clean and sharpen his weapons.
You are expecting to fight? she asked mildly.
It is a possibility, he agreed.
One other item came to her notice. A small casket sat beside her console, curiously she opened it.
Why are these here? She demanded in alarm as the Cathor Crystals glimmered at her.
He shrugged. I was asked to put them somewhere safe. The Captain was not entirely happy about them being in the armoury and for obvious reasons she didn't want them in her safe. I forgot to find another hiding place when I packed for this jaunt.
They are a danger to us, she snapped. If not directly, then if the Borg find them.
They aren't supposed to be a problem while they are together and I think our ugly friends may be in more danger from them than we are. Simply because before they take them, I will break them apart again and throw them into the deepest and darkest corners of the cube I can find. he vowed.
A warning light appeared on Seven of Nine's console dragging her attention back to more immediate problems.
The cube has detected the Hirogen vessel. Shields have activated, She announced.
Keep track of what they are doing. Will they shoot or capture it?
They are trying to capture it, Seven responded. The Hirogen ship is captured in a tractor beam. We should disengage now.
Not yet. We would be sitting ducks. How long does it take to refocus the tractor beam?
15 seconds, Seven answered automatically.
Say ten to notice we are there, the Colonel mused aloud.
Tell me when we are twelve seconds from being dragged in, he said.
We will be captured when we try to escape, Seven of Nine protested.
We aren't going to escape. We are hitching a ride. You said yourself before we can make contact with Voyager these ships will make the warning pointless. So I intend to attach us to the cube until we can make contact. We should be able to escape with the wreckage when they leave again, the Colonel claimed confidently.
Seven of Nine considered the Colonel's confidence as she watched her screens. It did not seem appropriate, but accepted the need to contact Voyager. It would be their two lives against the 150 aboard Voyager. It seemed a fair trade. She did not believe the Colonel would allow them to be taken and she was glad of that. She liked what she had too much to allow herself to become a drone again.
Twelve seconds, she announced.
Immediately he released the docking magnets and powered the engines, slipping their small craft away from the Hirogen ship that had provided a surrogate home for them and out along the side of the cube.
Fortunately the Borg are not big in windows, he commented softly as he skimmed over the cube looking for a safe landing spot. That will do! He pointed at a crevice between two towers and brought them to a safe landing.
Did they detect us? He asked immediately they landed.
Seven admitted. We are in too close for detection.
He grinned at her. As soon as you can send a burst message to Voyager, then shut everything down. Are you hungry?
I do not require nourishment at this time, Seven announced bluntly. The cubes are going into transwarp now! Signal will be sent in one hour. Cube arrival in twenty. Voyager will have four hours to react.
So what would you like to do for nineteen hours? The Colonel asked mildly an hour later, turning his seat around to face her. Their message had been despatched and they had still not been detected.
It was one of the two questions that Seven of Nine had posed to her herself at frequent intervals over the previous hour. The other was the probability of escape from the Borg when the journey was complete. The second looked exceptionally poor, even with the Colonel's fabled survival instincts. It rather answered the first. She slipped from her seat and onto the Colonel's lap.
I wish to be assimilated by you, she said quietly, then kissed him hard. I may not get the opportunity again!
The duty communications ensign picked up the burst transmission, noted that the sender was Seven of Nine and coded for the Captain and forwarded it. Seven and the Colonel were at least two days away. She did not remember it again for another hour when Chakotay came on the Bridge.
Anything to report? Anything from the Captain and the ball? He asked quietly.
Nothing but a report for the Captain from Seven of Nine, Commander.
I wasn't expecting anything from them for a couple more days. What did she say? He asked mildly.
I didn't decode it, the ensign admitted, then thought. It did seem unusual. It was a burst transmission.
Chakotay looked up sharply. Decode it quickly. They may be in trouble.
She did so as quickly as she could, her embarrassment making her fumble, while Chakotay started to pace. Finally she completed the task, blanched and read off the message.
There are three Borg cubes enroute to Komos. Arrival estimated 21:00, She read.
Chakotay checked the chronometer. Less than three hours! He exclaimed in alarm. Contact the Captain. Bring her back now!
He hit his communicator. All stations Red Alert. Ensign Kim to the Bridge!
He thought for another moment, half the prime deck crew were on the planet, it left him short of pilot, tactical officer and Captain. Dog Watch to the Bridge, he added. They were the best and the most inventive team aboard the ship, they may need to be inventive.
I can't raise the Captain, Sir! The ensign reported.
He could sense the panic forming in her voice.
Contact Seven of Nine and keep trying for the Captain.
Kim appeared from the turbo lift, rapidly followed by the Dog Watch. They were immediately turned on by Chakotay.
Harry long range scans, look for a transwarp conduit or Borg vessels. Kala assist him and find the Captain, Chakotay demanded. Winston, take the Conn. Carver, take Ops. I want the Captain and Seven of Nine.
I've got the Colonel, Sir! Carver reported a few minutes later. Still trying to raise the Captain.
Chakotay shot the ensign a grateful look and started to speak. Status report, Colonel?
The Colonel's voice broke in. We and our hosts will be over Komos in a about two hours, Sir. I intend to switch hosts when they have finished. You can come and collect us then.
Where are you? Chakotay put in quickly.
Attached to the lead cube. Look, can we keep this short. They haven't found us yet I want it to stay that way!
We can't get hold of the Captain! A stunned Chakotay blurted. We can't even detect her!
There was a pause, long enough for Chakotay to query,
It figures. Your hosts aren't all they claim. Get out of there Captain and watch your backs. Seven of Nine and I will find Captain Janeway. Ensign Carver, you play that tune again. I will break your neck! Out!
Get him back! Chakotay shouted.
Sorry, Sir. The Colonel has terminated the communications, Carver responded.
I've found the conduit, Sir. Details passed to Conn. Still no trace of the Captain, Ensign Kala reported.
Evasion course plotted and laid in, Ensign Winston advised a moment later. We require 65 minutes to avoid detection.
Gives us twenty-five minutes before we need to break orbit, Sir! Carver reported. Increasing scan rates to accommodate.
In bewilderment Chakotay looked around at the Dog Watch crew. As was always the case they had predicted the commands that would arise and were ready to execute them without question. All he needed was to give the command. He remembered the advice he had given to Harry Kim when he had commanded this watch, It could either be the easiest or the hardest watch you'll ever command.' he had predicted. This was going to be the hardest he had ever taken, they were keeping him on track to make the right decision, even though it was going to be the hardest.
Keep scanning until the last minute, he commanded, then settled into his chair for an uncomfortable wait.
What was the tune you played to get the Colonel's attention? He asked suddenly of Carver.
The Ensign smiled knowingly. The British Grenadier, Sir. It irritates the Colonel immensely. Guaranteed to get a response.
When the communications system had started to play The Grenadier', the Colonel was busy ejecting Seven of Nines probes, from his blood stream into a specimen jar. The previous twelve hours had revealed a side of Seven of Nine he had never realised existed. One that was desperate to experience human feelings of love and pleasure and magnified by the fear of being forced to rejoin the Borg. He was exhausted, he didn't think she was in much better state. Certainly not by the probe count in the jar.
He collapsed in his chair and considered the next move. Up until now he had been reasonably confident they could escape the activities of the Borg over Komos. Now they had a new task, one that would bring them into direct contact with the enemy.
Seven of Nine dressed then joined him, sitting upon his lap and draping her slender arms around him.
I think we may be biting off more than we can chew, he commented, kissing her tenderly. We have to rescue the Captain on a planet, I know nothing about, while keeping out of sight of not just the locals but the Borg as well! Any bright ideas?
Seven of Nine smiled at him, a rare event. I have observed your performance is superior when the circumstances become difficult. The degree of difficulty in this scenario is sufficient for you to be inspirational! she declared.
My greatest fan, he grinned. We have a couple of hours. Let's see what we can come up with. First can we acquire some sort of map of Komos. Perhaps we can reduce the number of targets we have to cover?
Captain Janeway, with General Hallock standing beside her, found that she had become the centre of attention of a small gathering of the diminutive Komon's. It had been like that for nearly three hours. It was a group she had been hoping to lose so that the away team could return to Voyager. But every time she brought the subject of a diplomatic exit more of the dwarves appeared and a new discussion was started.
An orderly slipped up beside them both and the General turned to face him.
They are here, General! The orderly reported cryptically.
The General nodded. And the other thing?
All is in place, Sir.
It was a happy General that turned back to the Captain. Now I'm sure you wish to get underway, Captain Janeway! He announced breezily. We cannot detain you further. I have other duties to deal with. Lieutenant Vesa will escort you to your landing point.
He left, almost hurriedly, the Captain thought in puzzlement. She chose to ignore any possible implications in favour of a quick exit, calling her party together and heading for the door.
Why do they wish to dispose of us so quickly, Captain? Tuvok asked quietly as a party of twenty Komos Soldiers fell in around them. Until now they seemed to have a desire to detain us.
I don't know, the Captain admitted. I think something has come up. I'm not complaining. I've been trying to get away for hours. I'm starting to hate diplomacy!
They arrived at their beam down point and were surprised by another group of armed soldiers appearing around them.
What is happening? Tom Paris demanded in alarm as the company of soldiers levelled weapons at them.
We have three Borg vessels orbiting the planet, Vesa announced nervously. We have come to an arrangement with them. You are the arrangement. Captain, remove your communications devices and order the rest of your crew to do the same.
The Borg do not honour agreements! Captain Janeway protested in horror.
Vesa shrugged, but he was still nervous. They have done so for nearly a hundred years, Captain. We provide technology and people they are interested in and they do not take more than a few dozen of our people. They seem to be very interested in you and your ship. They responded as soon as we signalled them. They do not seem to want any of our people at all this time! Now please remove you communications devices, we will render you unconscious and take them if necessary.
I have detected the Captain! Seven of Nine announced from her station. They are in the company of at least twenty others, proceeding to point 113.456. There are an additional two hundred Komon's there waiting for them.
Too many, the Colonel muttered. He had been stood in the shuttles transporter zone for twenty minutes waiting to respond immediately when Seven of Nine detected the missing Voyager crew. Can we beam them out before they get to the meeting place?
The plan they had devised had been for the Colonel to intercept the Captain when they moved to their transport location, then to keep them hidden until she could safely beam them out. He had not expected them to be guarded by two full companies.
Seven of Nine checked her sensors again. They have not emerged from the dampening field. A second field has been erected around the landing zone. I am unable to beam you close enough to intercept. I am attempting to modulate the frequencies to overcome it, however they are deploying multiple frequency modulation, it will require some time.
she added. The Borg have not sent drones to begin assimilation, nor is Komos offering resistance.
He pulled his pack off and took the pilots seat. Sounds as if they are dealing with them. We need plan C'. If I can't take out their guards and you can't break their dampening, we might be pretty stuck. How about an air to ground attack?
We would be intercepted, Seven of Nine pointed out calmly. I have lost contact with the Away Teams communicators. They have been removed.
Can we intercept the Borg transporters?
We have insufficient power to achieve that.
Can we get them from where ever the Borg put them?
Without communicators I will not be able to lock on their locations.
The Colonel paused for thought before looking up again with another idea. Can you put me where they are beamed to?
Seven of Nine considered that question carefully. The implications were obvious. The Colonel was intending to take on the whole crew of a Cube. She admitted at last. However the transport would be detected, subsequent transport will be blocked. I will not be able to bring you back. Nor will you be able to defend them for long. I am not prepared to remain here alone.
He picked up the phial containing the probes he had extracted earlier and shook it at her. Put these back in. We go together and we are going to become pirates, he said simply.
She avoided asking the question about what he intended to steal only because her scans revealed a transport in progress. They also revealed something else.
The cube is about to enter Transwarp! She called quickly.