Left Behind III - Faith to Believe
"Why can't I see the disturbance on the view
screen, lieutenant?" asked Archer as Reed attempted to show him the anomaly.
It was several thousands of kilometers away at a safe distance from the
ship.
"Unknown, sir, but the sensors verify that
is there." answered Malcolm.
"Is it naturally occurring or is it some kind
of Suliban technology, a trap perhaps?" questioned the captain.
"It may or may not be a natural phenomenon,
sir, but according to the instruments it seems to have been here for at
least one billion years, although it's difficult to say exactly. I recommend
launching a probe to gather more data."
"Do it, lieutenant."
"We should have a better understanding of
this thing within the hour, sir." said Malcolm confidently.
"Malcolm! You look terrible!" Hoshi exclaimed
as he walked into the mess hall. It was almost midnight, long after any
regular meal time.
"Thanks." he said, biting back a yawn.
"What are you doing here so late?"
"The captain ordered me to get some chow while
the science department prepares a probe. I wasn't planning to get anything
until ..." he told Hoshi, trailing off and shaking his head.
"Until you found the missing officers?"
"Yes."
"You shouldn't torture yourself like that,
Malcolm."
"It's just motivation. A hungry man finds
ways and means that aren't readily apparent to a satisfied one."
"Nonsense!" scoffed Hoshi.
"Nevertheless." he shrugged, walking to one
of the glass cases and picking out a salad. "What are you doing here so
late?" he questioned.
"I couldn't sleep. I thought I would have
some tea, and maybe see if any desserts were left from dinner."
"Sugar and caffeine before bed?" teased Malcolm.
"Chamomile tea. Would you care to join me?"
asked Hoshi, retrieving her beverage from the machine.
"Why not?" he shrugged, managing an ever-so-slightly
uncertain smile.
"Try to get some sleep, Hoshi." he told her
half an hour later as they stood outside her quarters.
"I could tell you the same thing." she said.
His eyes twinkled a little as he smiled and
looked away.
"I promise I will do just that, when I've
finished my job and found those officers. Don't worry."
"I know you'll unravel this mystery, Malcolm.
I believe in you."
Despite the long hours of frustrating work
and incredible uncertainty, Lieutenant felt his chest swell with pride
and confidence. He leaned down and kissed her cheek.
"Thank you, Hoshi."
"Um, good-night, Malcolm." she said, smiling
and giggling softly as he walked hurriedly away, more determined and motivated
than ever.
"If Hoshi has faith in me, then I can do anything."
he thought to himself.
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