The Second Portal

by 50of47

The crew of Voyager find themselves in an unfamiliar dimension after passing through the first of a series of wormholes that would considerably shorten their journey home. They search for a way back to normal Delta Quadrant space.

4. Act 2

DISCLAIMER: See prologue.

Act 2

Day 6:

In the Briefing Room, 1107 hours:

Tuvok was just finishing a broad overview of his map data analysis when Seven entered the briefing room with Mortimer Harren. "My apologies for our late arrival, Captain. Mr. Harren insisted upon rechecking his calculations. He has made a discovery of considerable significance, and wished to be absolutely certain of his data before presenting it to the senior staff."

"I'll excuse it, Seven," said Janeway.

Seven glanced over at Tuvok to see if he had anything further to say, but he inclined his head and gestured for her to proceed. Seven turned to Harren and said, "Crewman Harren, now would be an appropriate time for you to present your findings."

Harren walked over to the systems operations wall monitor. It already displayed the star chart from the previous evening's session in astrometrics, since Tuvok had been using it to indicate the position of Nardonia during his overview of the map data. Harren tapped a few controls to broaden the view to include the entire sector. He tapped a few more controls to overlay various elements of the star chart with several very complex formulas and a schematic. He turned to Janeway and said, "Just thought the senior staff might like to see how I arrived at my conclusions, Captain," Harren said. B'Elanna Torres glanced at Tom Paris and rolled her eyes just enough for him to see. Harry Kim noticed as well and bowed his head slightly to stare at the table, trying his best to conceal a smile. Harren, of course, was oblivious to Torres's silent opinion of his comment and Kim's amusement.

"Thank you, Mr. Harren," Janeway said. "Proceed."

He acknowledged the Captain with a nod, and continued his presentation. "As you requested, I busied myself with Seven's astronomic data in order to find the theoretical center of this spatial reality. The calculations were so simple that the task at hand was easily accomplished. However, I noticed a few irregularities during the process, which led me to a deduction of considerably more importance."

"And that would be...," said Tuvok.

"Constructing an additional theoretical model revealed that subspace functions identically in both this alternate reality and normal space. All of Voyager's technology that relies on subspace will function normally in this dimension, once engineering finds the practical application for my calculations."

By this time, everyone around the briefing room table had straightened up and begun to pay much closer attention to Harren's presentation. "Furthermore," he continued, "it may eventually be possible to get a point of reference relative to our former position in the Delta Quadrant by using subspace as a conduit between normal space and this alternate dimension."

"You're telling us then that subspace links the two realities," said Harry Kim.

"Correct, Ensign," responded Harren. "I need considerably more data before I can formulate a model for how it might be accomplished, but the possibility is there. If we are able to create a stable subspace connection between normal space and this dimension, it may also be possible to reestablish the datastream link to the Pathfinder Project. That could prove useful, should Voyager be forced to remain in Second Portal space for any great length of time."

"We're hoping our stay here will be brief, Mr. Harren, but I would appreciate any effort you can make toward achieving that goal," said Janeway.

"Of course, Captain. At the very least, a link back to Pathfinder would also allow Voyager to receive Federation Timebase Beacon information. Seven has advised me that passing through the remaining portals may involve additional travel through alternate dimensions. If the ship repeatedly encounters temporal distortions, establishing that subspace link may become vital at some point.

"Agreed, Crewman," said Janeway. "Consider the project yours."

"Acknowledged."

At this point, Seven spoke up. "Mr. Harren advised me that it is crucial we follow the map exactly."

Harren jumped back into the conversation immediately with a further explanation. "My results show there is a slight possibility that this anomalous space will continue to skew data, despite any sensor modifications. Second Portal space folds back on itself temporally and spatially in a very peculiar way, so it's important not be misled by an occasional contradictory reading. Voyager will be fine as long as you follow the map with precise reference to the theoretical center which I've located. It's the only constant in this reality."

"Thank you for the warning, Mr. Harren. Your findings confirm the information we were given when we acquired the map," said Janeway. "We'll pay special attention to how our modified sensors function once we are underway, but as you know, what constitutes an anomalous reading could depend on the type of work-around engineering devises. We may have further need of your services."

Harren nodded his acknowledgement, and then said, "Speaking of engineering, I've taken the liberty of creating several additional models that should enable Lieutenant Torres and her teams to get Voyager's sensor technology and warp core up and running again."

He handed Torres a padd, and turned to address her directly. "This contains a summary of my findings, all formulas used to derive my conclusions, plus the additional models. I've streamlined everything down to a level the rest of the engineering staff can understand. They should be able to implement any modifications to the navigational sensors and warp core assembly you might require," Harren said. "I am, of course, available for additional clarification."

Torres briefly scrolled through the padd, with Tom Paris looking over her shoulder to read it as well. She was impressed with the work, but wore a sullen expression on her face while she inwardly fumed. Although Harren was assigned to her department, he obviously didn't consider himself a part of it. She deeply resented what she felt to be his deliberate slur on her staff's ability. After a few moments spent glancing through the data, she looked up and grudgingly thanked him. Paris took the padd from her and began to study it in more depth.

"Thank you for your initiative, Mr. Harren," Janeway said. "It's greatly appreciated."

Harren's face lit up with the first genuine smile Janeway could ever remember having seen from him. "My pleasure, Captain. If I'm finished here, I'd like to return to my station to determine what data I will need to construct models for the subspace link we discussed."

"Certainly, Mr. Harren. You're dismissed," said Janeway.

Harren left by the corridor opposite the viewports. The entire senior staff waited in silence for a few moments until they heard the doors hiss shut behind him.

Torres was the first to speak. Turning to Seven, she said, "Seven, how did you ever put up with that arrogant p'tahk without killing him? You can borrow my favorite hyperspanner to readjust his attitude the next time you're stuck working with him."

"Crewman Harren's attitude is irrelevant," said Seven. "As I never assimilated any theoretical quantum cosmologists with his level of expertise while in the Collective, his unique perspective was invaluable." Torres sat back with a disgusted sigh and rolled her eyes at Seven's comments.

Janeway said, "I didn't like having to ask Harren for his input either, B'Elanna, but we were out of ideas." With a twinkle in her eye, she continued, saying, "Hold off for now on lending Seven that hyperspanner until we see what your team can come up with." The undercurrent of amusement in her voice elicited chuckles from everyone around the table, and a mischievous smirk from Torres. Janeway let a moment go by, and then asked, "Status of the propulsion system?"

Torres' face became serious once again as she replied, "Engineering is implementing a possible solution to give us better control over maneuvering thrusters as we speak." She gestured toward the padd in Tom's hand and said, "A quick glance at Harren's work tells me we should have impulse power back fairly quickly, but it'll take at least a week to devise and test new subroutines for warp. In either case, we'll still need the navigation sensors back online before we can go anywhere."

"Speaking of which, any progress in that area?" asked Janeway. "I'd like to get underway as soon as possible, even if it's only at impulse."

Tom gestured with the padd for Janeway's attention.

"Yes, Mr. Paris?"

"Captain, if I may?I have an idea I'd like to run past you."

"Let's have it," Janeway said.

"Well," said Paris, "think of it as a Galaxy-class solution to an Intrepid-class problem."

"Go on."

"Just a minute, Tom," said Neelix. "You've lost me."

Janeway opened her mouth to give Neelix an explanation, but Kim said, "Let me, Captain. I think I know where Tom's headed with this." Kim turned to address the Talaxian and said, "Neelix, Voyager was specifically designed as a 'troubleshooter' vessel for short-term reconnaissance missions like the one to track down Chakotay's ship in the Badlands. She's fast and maneuverable, but doesn't have the same kind of advanced technology routinely installed on the large Galaxy-class ships of exploration to compensate for the temporal and spatial anomalies found in deep space. Unless I'm mistaken, Tom's about to suggest a retrofit."

"You read my mind, Harry," said Paris. "The problem here isn't alternate space so much asit's us." He scrolled the padd as he spoke, and paused it occasionally to tap in a few annotations for himself. "According to Harren's calculations, Voyager's fractionally out of phase with Second Portal space. I think we can adjust for the variance, but it's complicated."

"How many double shifts is my department going to have to work?" asked Torres.

Tom shot a quick glance in Torres' direction, but continued to address his comments to Janeway. "I would start by installing dedicated phase discriminators on the hull that would generate a localized subspace forcefield around the external navigational sensors."

Kim said, "The fields those discriminators generate might not be powerful enough to offset the effects of this space for a project this size."

"That's why we'd be installing a set of dedicated field emitters at the same time. Follow along with me on this, Harry," said Paris. We use Harren's data to reconfigure the phase discriminators' subspace emitters to compensate for the variance, amplify and piggyback the resulting field onto a regular shield signal, and then route it through the dedicated emitters. It'll work just like a regular shield, but with the added benefit of protecting the sensors from this space," he said."Remember -- we're talking about a very narrow grid here, just big enough to surround and isolate the nav sensors from Second Portal space. Once that's taken care of, engineering could go ahead and recalibrate them."

"You'd probably need a retrofit in the Jeffries tubes as well to bring the internal nav ODN lines and relays into alignment," said Kim.

"Right," responded Paris. He directed his attention back to Janeway and said, "Actually, we'd need to isolate any navigation-related technology from Second Portal space to clear up the helm readings. It's a non-regulation solution, Captain, but I think it could work." Torres reached over and took the padd back from Paris. She began to study it more closely.

The Doctor entered the discussion at this point. "Along similar lines, Captain, we need to do something to protect the crew from this dimension as well," he said. "I'm already seeing an increased number of patients complaining of headaches, difficulty concentrating, and insomnia -- all classic symptoms of prolonged exposure to spatial anomalies."

"How bad is it, Doctor?" Janeway asked.

"Manageable for now, but it won't be for very much longer. I can formulate an inoculant, but as a short-term treatment only. Two weeks at the outside, and the crew runs the risk of debilitating side effects from the buildup of medication in their systems, even if it's closely monitored."

Tom jumped back into the discussion with another suggestion. "Why don't we enlarge the scope of the nav sensor project by installing phase discriminators on the entire hull? We could project the subspace forcefield around the entire ship and recalibrate it for Second Portal space. When we make the adjustment for the spatial variance, it should protect the crew. You'd also be clearing up any related issues associated with the bio-neural circuitry, and it would probably help with the warp field problems."

Janeway turned to Torres and asked, "B'Elanna?"

"It should work. I've seen schematics in the engineering database for everything we'd need."

Janeway noted the unspoken reservations in Torres' voice. "I hear a 'but'," she said.

"Engineering can fabricate and install enough phase technology internally and externally to solve the navigation sensor problem," said Torres. "A larger installation on the entire hull and maybe throughout the ship? I don't know. We're already stretched pretty thin between the sensor and warp projects. I'm concerned about depleting our raw material and energy reserves so quickly. We've still made no headway on getting out of Second Portal space, even with the new map information."

"What if we could find something for you to adapt on Nardonia?" asked Janeway. "It would preserve your stockpile, and speed up a retrofit as well."

"Tuvok's analysis of the map data did say that Nardonia is a major trading outpost in this sector," said Chakotay. "Obviously, the species native to this space already have the technology to function in it."

Tom responded, "Good point. I'm sure an away team could locate anything we need. We just have to get there."

Janeway turned to Torres with a questioning glance. Torres said, "It's the best idea I've heard so far, Captain. One of the factors preventing us from maintaining a stable warp field is the intensity level of the tachyon eddies in Second Portal space. Harren has given us a usable work-around, but the core would be back online a lot sooner if I had something to adapt that can already compensate for it."

"Agreed," said Janeway. "Start with the modifications to the nav systems so we can 'get there,' as Mr. Paris so colorfully put it, and add the astrometrics sensors to your list. We'll need to scan Nardonia from a distance before undertaking any away mission, and I'm sure Tactical would like to keep a long-range eye on the Magol ship's whereabouts as well. How soon can you have everything in place?"

"If I pull people off other assigned duties, the subspace forcefields can be in place in roughly eight hours," said Torres. "My team will need at least another two to recalibrate and test everything, and then we can get underway at impulse."

"Do it," said Janeway. "You're authorized to recruit anyone with an engineering clearance high enough to be useful on this project. I want your other team working to get the core back online. Nardonia is about a day and a half away at maximum impulse, so that should give them plenty of time to make headway on the new subroutines for warp."

"They'll have to rewrite code for those subroutines if the away team brings back anything I can adapt, but you're right," said Torres. "We could still use the head start."

"I'll consider authorizing the larger retrofit once we see what the away team finds," said Janeway. She then turned to the EMH and said, "Doctor, get started on that inoculant. I'll take the two weeks of crew efficiency it'll give us, in case nothing B'Elanna can use turns up on Nardonia. If comes down to that, we'll need the full crew available to follow any leads we get for other sources." The Doctor nodded.

Tuvok chose this moment to turn the focus of the discussion back to the away mission itself. "Captain, Eyfrod's warning about the unfriendly nature of Second Portal space deeply concerns me. The civilization the away team encountered on Natra was composed of several spacefaring races, some of whom we may possibly encounter on Nardonia." He looked very pointedly at Neelix and then said, "The encrypted file offers no detailed information on the Nardonian legal system. If our experience on Natra is any indication, it would be safe to assume that the merchants in Nardonia's marketplace will be equally suspicious and given to hostility if pressured or challenged." Tuvok's comment made Neelix very uncomfortable, but the Talaxian remained silent. Tuvok continued, saying, "It is my understanding that the Natrans tried to pass through the Second Portal and failed. We may encounter them as well as others searching for the map, though not necessarily openly so. I remind you as well that while on Abras, the away team was circumspect in its search for the remainder of the First Portal map, but eight ships left that planet's orbit to follow Voyager when we set out for the First Portal. Quite obviously, we were closely observed."

Janeway opened up Tuvok's comments to general discussion by the assembled staff by saying, "I'm with Tuvok on this. It's going to be nearly impossible to keep our search for the map in Second Portal space entirely secret, but the away team does need to avoid drawing the same level of attention this time around. We're operating in an alternate reality with compromised systems. It's a safe bet that the Magol are looking for Voyager and the map as well."

"Agreed, Captain," Chakotay said. "We'll have to limit our 'official' dealings on Nardonia to food and 'replacement parts' only, if we're going look as though our only purpose is simple resupply. Raw materials to fabricate additional components may have to wait."

Before Janeway could respond to Chakotay's comment, Neelix made a suggestion. "Captain, why not take my ship down to Nardonia?" he asked. "Baxial would be much less conspicuous than a nice, shiny Federation ship like the Delta Flyer."

"He's right," said Torres. "Even if the away team used a Class 8 or 9 shuttle instead of the Flyer, it would still be pretty obvious they've come from a larger ship. Neelix's freighter is self-contained. It's at least conceivable that the crew using it could be on a small deep space mission of exploration -- a group of stellar cartographers, maybe, surveying and mapping new systems, or anthropologists doing field studies on cultures unfamiliar to them. Either one would work as the away team's cover."

"If we combine both scenarios, it would give the away team enough latitude to ask a wider range of questions once we're on the surface," said Chakotay. "I'd be willing to play the part of the anthropologist."

"I thought you might," said Janeway with a smile. "Tuvok, you'll be our stellar cartographer. Neelix, pilot Baxial to Nardonia and then pose as a cultural documentarian, in case anyone questions you. Once you've arrived and secured the ship, join the away team and head for the market. It should appear as though one of your most immediate duties is to restock food supplies, but what I really need you to do is to circulate and keep your ears open for any information we can use in Second Portal space." With a quick glance at Tuvok, she said, "Leave the negotiations for anything other than food to the rest of the away team."

"Understood, Captain. I won't let you down," said Neelix. Fortunately, his attention was focused entirely on Janeway. Neelix didn't see Paris and Chakotay make eye contact when they realized there would be no repeat of the marketplace fiasco on Natra, nor did he see the expression of obvious relief that crossed both his crewmates' faces.

Janeway turned to Paris and said, "Tom..."

"Let me guess," said Paris. "Backup pilot and all-around engineering guy."

"Right," said Janeway. "Your mission focus is on finding anything that B'Elanna can adapt to get the core back online or do the retrofit you suggested."

"You got it, Captain."

Seven began, "Captain..."

Janeway cut her off. "I need you here, Seven. Work on getting the astrometrics sensors back up and running, and once you've accomplished that, join the team working on the warp core project. They'll need your expertise to interpret Harren's models. We probably won't find the entire map at once, so you'll have another chance for an away mission later."

"As you wish, Captain," responded Seven.

"Tuvok, we still need to discuss the technological contents of the encrypted file," said Janeway. She turned to the EMH and said, "Doctor, you might want to pay close attention here. This aspect of the away mission will require your special skills."

"Of course, Captain. I'm at your service," said the EMH.

Tuvok stood and walked over to the systems operations wall monitor. The Doctor joined him, and positioned himself on the opposite side of the monitor from the Vulcan. Tuvok called up a schematic display and began his discussion of the technology meant to aid the away team in their search for the map.

"There are two locators for which the file gives detailed schematics and instructions," said Tuvok. "Both are designed to detect a specific subspace beacon frequency, but one device has functional aspects in common with your medical instrumentation, Doctor."

"How so?" asked the Doctor.

"The first locator is a miniaturized verification transceiver, which is to be implanted in the fleshy pad of the wearer's index fingertip. Simple physical contact with an object that appears to be part of the map is all that is required to transmit the beacon frequency. A genuine quadlet has an imbedded transceiving node which this signal will then activate, causing it to return a verification response by telepathic means. Obviously, I am the logical individual to have the device implanted."

"Just as B'Elanna would obviously be the logical individual to assist you with this. I'm a doctor, not an engineer, or a telepath, for that matter," grumbled the EMH.

"Ordinarily, I would agree with you, Doctor," said Tuvok, "but in order to elicit the desired verification response, the transceiver must be calibrated to match the specific user's brain wave pattern. That pattern is broadcast together with the beacon frequency during the initial physical contact. The encrypted file we discovered in the map indicated that this process allows the quadlet's node to 'sense' when a living telepathic being is present to receive the verification, as opposed to a sophisticated mechanical scanning device. Clearly, this safeguard was designed to impede non-telepaths with opportunistic motives from extracting information from the map by artificial means."

"It sounds almost as though you're saying this map is sentient," said Kim.

"Pre-sentient, perhaps, Ensign, but certainly with an intelligence directing its movements," said Tuvok, "My working hypothesis posits that the map is a benign form of psionic resonator, which is telepathically controlled by a guild of Map Keepers and their assistants, solely for the purpose of keeping it out of the wrong hands."

"That's a lot of trouble to go to for just a map," said the Doctor.

"Although I have insufficient data at present to be certain, Doctor, it does appear that this map is far more than a mere schematic indicating the location of thirteen portals leading back to the other side of the galaxy," said Tuvok. "Thus, the need for the secrecy of telepathic verification."

"Very well," said the Doctor. "And the second locator?"

"Your assistance will not be required for this one, other than to affix it to the wearer's skin," said Tuvok. "It is a simple homing device. The quadlet's transceiving node broadcasts the beacon frequency as well, which causes the locator to vibrate with growing intensity as the wearer approaches it. This instrument is designed to be worn by a non-telepath, concealed under clothing. Given that Mr. Chakotay is the designated Map Finder, he is the logical individual to wear this locator."

Neelix interrupted at this point, saying, "Commander Chakotay will have his tricorder with him, Mr. Vulcan. It seems to me that a 'cultural documentarian' such as myself, who would be circulating much more widely than an 'anthropologist,' is the more 'logical' choice to wear it."

Tuvok fixed Neelix with a penetrating gaze. "It is not, Mr. Neelix" he said, in a tone of voice that brooked no dissent. "Commander Chakotay's designation as Map Finder has already made him the focus of hostile and aggressive attention. The open use of a tricorder, or indeed any scanning device, would draw unwanted attention both to himself and the away team, particularly if there are others already on Nardonia searching for the map."

"Neelix, I have to agree with Tuvok," Janeway said. "Concentrate on your mission assignment as given. Your talent for drawing people out will be much more valuable to us than if you were directly involved with finding the map. See what you can learn about the people or places we may come into contact with, and let the rest of the away team handle finding the map."

A defensive Neelix said, "All right, Captain." He paused for a moment and then added, "I was just trying to help."

Before Janeway could respond with a few words to smooth over Neelix's discomfort, Tom Paris spoke up. He said, "While I'm thinking about it, Captain, there's a couple of things that need to be worked out before we leave on this mission."

"Such as?" asked Janeway.

"Well, for starters, Baxial's navigation system has to be retrofitted to compensate for the phase variance, and the impulse drive recalibrated before anyone can pilot it down to Nardonia. It's a pretty straightforward job -- I volunteer myself and my good friend, Harry Kim."

"Thanks, Tom," said Kim.

Paris was about respond to Kim's sarcastic tone with a quip, when Janeway cut him off by saying, "Agreed. What else?"

"Well, I'm a little concerned about our safety since we're not going to use our technology openly. I guess that means communicators, too. How are we going to stay in touch with each other or Voyager in case we're affected by this space or get into trouble once we're down there?"

"We were just getting to that, Mr. Paris."

"Captain, I think I have a solution, or at least part of one," said Torres. "I'm assuming you're going to have the Doctor implant subdermal transponders so the team members can communicate with each other." Janeway nodded. "That also covers transport, but I'm going to suggest the away team wear emergency transporter armbands under their shirt sleeves as a backup. The armbands contain a type-7 phase discriminator. We can use it to put a skintight isolation field around each team member to protect them from Second Portal space, and I can also give everyone the option to redirect communications through the armbands if necessary."

"All right," said Janeway. "Precautions?"

"Just one, Captain, and it's relatively minor. An isolation field that narrow will allow the team to handle and manipulate objects in Second Portal space, but they should be careful about prolonged physical contact with anyone in the marketplace. A really strong physical connection with another person could discharge the field. Our phase variance with Second Portal space is small enough so that if that happens, the effects will be unpleasant, but not life-threatening. It would definitely attract some of that attention you're trying to avoid, though."

"Can you give the away team an option to turn the field off if they need to?" asked Janeway. Torres nodded. "Then do it. I'd rather not have the team forced to rely solely on an inoculant to function away from the ship," said Janeway. She turned to the EMH and said, "No offense, Doctor, but scans from orbit and encrypted files only tell you so much."

"None taken, Captain," said the Doctor. "Better safe than sorry, I always say."

"Captain, I'll have Vorik replicate and calibrate the armbands once the modifications to the navigation systems are complete," Torres said. "It shouldn't hold us up on anything else."

"Then I'll leave the timing of that in your capable hands, B'Elanna," said Janeway. Turning to the EMH, she said, "Doctor, please have subdermal transponders ready to be implanted in the away team before they leave. They should have both options in case they need to call for an emergency beamout."

"Agreed, Captain," said the Doctor.

Tuvok said, "Might I remind everyone that three vesselscame through the First Portal with us? There is a strong likelihood that the Magol will stalk our away team, and presumably individuals from the other two ships as well. There is nothing in Voyager's database to match the configuration of the unknown vessels, so we have no information regarding which species command them. The away team must remain vigilant at all times."

"Understood," said Chakotay.

Janeway said, "We'll keep the subdermal transponders implanted in the away team until the entire map has been retrieved. Voyager will also remain at continuous yellow alert until we are safely through the Second Portal."

"I concur. That is a prudent course of action," said Tuvok.

"Captain," said Seven, "It would be unwise to assume that we alone know that subspace connects Second Portal space and normal space. There may be other interdimensional rifts besides the Portal. Any species developed enough to navigate that route and possessing highly advanced communications technology capable of exploiting the dimensional link could have alerted contacts in this region with information about Voyager and its role in moving the map."

Harry Kim spoke up. "So what you're saying is that the natives on this planet might already know we're looking for the map before we even arrive. That's just great. The away team isn't supposed to use their tricorders or communicators, but they could be walking into a trap."

"That is a distinct possibility, Ensign," said Tuvok. "While we were still in Eyford's shop on Abras, he warned the Captain that there would be many willing to kill for possession of the map and the power it confers. These individuals could launch a direct assault themselves, or perhaps enlist the aid of mercenaries more interested in immediate financial gain than in possessing the map. On the other hand, they might simply observe the away team's movements for a later attack under what they would consider to be more favorable circumstances."

"In that case," said Seven, "Commander Chakotay should be implanted with a miniaturized interlink cortical transmitter, and I should maintain a mind link with him at all times. He is, as you pointed out, the natural focus of aggression as the Map Finder."

Chakotay became noticably uncomfortable at the prospect of a continuous mind link with Seven of Nine. "I don't think that will be necessary, Seven," he said. "This isn't a rescue mission, and I'll personally see to it that it doesn't become one."

"Be that as it may, Commander," said Tuvok, "we may encounter conditions on the surface which could interfere with communications or transport using the subdermal transponders or armbands. Since Borg interlink frequencies directly permeate subspace, this would allow us to communicate with you and beam you away through subspace if necessary. It is for your own protection."

Tom Paris couldn't resist the opportunity the topic presented to needle the First Officer. Paris turned to him and said, "Well, let's see what we've got here, Chakotay." Paris counted them off on his fingers as he said, "A phase discriminator on an armband under your sleeve, a concealed beacon locator, an implanted subdermal transponder and Borg interlink transmitter. Oh no," he said, drawing out the last syllable. "Those won't attract much attention. We'll just be sure not to let you walk through any Nardonian metal detectors," he said with a knowing smirk. "You won't set off any alarms."

Torres and Kim both struggled to keep a straight face. Seven and the Doctor scowled. Neelix made a mental note to ask Tom later about what sounded like some kind of obsolete technology. Tuvok began, "Mr. Paris...," but it was Janeway's glare that cut off any further needling. Paris looked a little embarrassed that his joke had fallen so flat, and apologized to Chakotay.

"I'll authorize the interlink transmitter," said Janeway. Turning to Chakotay, she said, "Sorry, Commander, but it's a necessary precaution." She then stood and addressed the entire group. "We'll finalize the details of this mission once we arrive at Nardonia. If there's nothing further, you're all dismissed."

The staff left the briefing room, with the exception of Chakotay, whose face betrayed his continuing unease. When Janeway saw that he had made no move to stand and leave with the others, she remained behind to discuss what she knew was on his mind. She came around the end of the table and sat on the edge to his left. Resting her hand on the table and leaning in toward him, she said, "Let me guess, Chakotay. You'd rather go ten rounds with Kid Chaos than have Seven roaming around inside your head."

"Make that twenty rounds, Kathryn, considering I've already got Neelix in there."

"I do understand, Chakotay," Janeway said. "You've been coming to terms with your bond with Neelix, but Seven really is another story." Trying to lighten the mood, Janeway said, "I know I wasn't too pleased when anything I said in confidence to her during the last mind link with you was going out over the Borg equivalent of an open comm link. A captain does like to keep some conversations private, you know." When that produced no response from Chakotay, she said, "I know the Talaxian bond has been tough to get used to. Now I'm asking you to have your every thought and instinct laid open to scrutiny by someone as literal-minded as Seven." She paused for a moment and then said, "Chakotay, it really is for your own safety."

"My instincts are telling me it won't be necessary this time," said Chakotay, with a noticeable edge to his voice.

"And your instincts may be correct, but as the Map Finder, you're still vulnerable to attack," said Janeway. "The mind link could save your life."

Chakotay said, "I know," in a flat tone. He glanced away from Janeway.

She rested her hand lightly on his arm to regain his attention, and said, "I'll discuss the matter thoroughly with Seven and lay down some very specific ground rules for the link. My orders will only allow her intrusion if there is a genuine emergency. I'll have the Doctor disable the interlink transmitter when you're on the ship," Janeway said.

"All right, Captain." Chakotay stood and nodded his head to take his leave, but the obvious tension in his normally relaxed and fluid body language gave away his lingering sense of discomfort at the further violation of his privacy.

Janeway watched with concern as he started toward the briefing room door. Quietly, she began, "Chakotay..." He turned and looked back at her with a questioning glance. She closed the distance between them, laid her hand on his chest, and dropped her command mask. She looked up into his eyes and said, "I never want to be forced to stand in front of my crew again and act like you mean nothing to us, Chakotay, or to me. I can't even begin to tell you what having to watch those animals torture you did to me. The sound of those screams..." Her voice trailed off as she shuddered at the memory.

Chakotay was moved by the personal concern evident in her face. "You don't have to, Kathryn," he said softly. "I know you. I can imagine." He held her gaze until she looked away.

Janeway took a few nervous steps backward and crossed her arms in front of herself. Her eyes were guarded when they met his again. She said, "Chakotay, I know it's a lot to ask, coming right on top of the bond with Neelix, but I want to make certain your torture by the Magol never repeats itself," she said. "Between the subdermal transponder, the armband, and the interlink transmitter, we should be able to find you and pull you out of nearly anywhere."

Chakotay felt some of the tension flow out of him, and he visibly relaxed. "All right, Kathryn. I guess I can live with Seven's mindlink on away missions. She won't be too happy with any restrictions your orders will place on her, though -- I can tell you that."

"I'll ask the Doctor to prepare a social lesson for her on the concept of privacy," said Janeway, deadpan.

A quick grin flashed across Chakotay's face, and they both laughed at the thought. They agreed to take a break in a few hours for a late lunch to continue their interrupted discussion from the previous evening. Chakotay left for his office and backlogged paperwork via the corridor as Janeway entered the bridge to oversee preparations for getting Voyager underway once again.

Day 6

Meanwhile, the Magol, 2142 hours:

Gunlag was very surprised to learn that the Magol alliance's day-long pursuit of Voyager had brought them to very nearly within striking distance of their quarry. Tarik's sensors confirmed the readings on Imot's Abuskat-enhanced display, but Gunlag was suspicious of a possible trap. He had expected several days' travel at high warp before encountering the Federation ship again.

"Recheck your instruments," insisted Gunlag.

Imot complied, and then said, "They show Janeway's ship underway at far below its maximum speed." Imot was about to ask Gunlag if he should signal Tarik to recheck Abuskat sensors as well, but thought better of it.

"We all came through the Portal six days ago, and Janeway left within a few hours," said Gunlag. "They should have covered much more distance than this."

"Either they have not completed repairs to their propulsion system, or this region's unusual properties may be causing their technology to malfunction," said Imot.

Before Gunlag could comment on this observation, Imot's console beeped. Glancing at the display, Imot said, "The Abuskat are hailing us."

"Open visual communications," said Gunlag.

The viewscreen came to life, displaying Tarik on his bridge. "Captain Gunlag, my long-range sensors are showing a planetary system along Voyager's current heading. Judging by the heavy ship traffic I've been observing, it contains a trading outpost. Obviously, this is Janeway's intended destination. How do you wish to proceed?"

"Patience, Tarik, patience," said Gunlag. "Give my people a moment to contact Helar, and we will decide this together." Imot made the connection before Gunlag had even finished his sentence. The viewscreen split, and the image of Captain Helar appeared beside that of Tarik.

"Helar," began Gunlag, "Tarik just informed me that his sensors have detected Voyager's probable destination along our present course. Evidently, there is an outpost on one of the planets in a nearby star system. The moment has come for our alliance to make use of your generous offer of stealth technology."

"It is at your service," responded Helar. "What do you have in mind?"

"I think it best that our three vessels remain well out of Voyager's sensor range until we can determine Janeway's progress in recovering the map. For now, I prefer to mislead her by not appearing as an immediate threat," said Gunlag. "Both exchange crews are still aboard my ship. If I were to add two from my crew, we would have a combined team that could take up an observation position near Voyager using one of your cloaked shuttlepods."

"Yes. And if Janeway decides to send her crew down to that outpost, the shuttlepod can easily land without detection," said Helar. "Our personal stealth cloaks would allow the team to follow Janeway's people on the surface. I will send the technology over in the shuttlepod, along with orders directing my crew to train the others in its use."

"Excellent," said Gunlag. "When can we act on our plan?"

"Fairly quickly, Gunlag," said Helar. "I would estimate two of your gola. The shuttlepod is ready now, thanks to your earlier assistance. Most of the time will be taken up calibrating the stealth cloaks for each individual's particular biology, and then, of course, the other team members must be trained."

"Acceptable," said Gunlag. "Two gola, it is. We will speak again when everything is ready."

Imot broke the connection between the three ships. Gunlag said, "Fflam, you will lead this mission, and take our lothario Expendable with you. Take charge of the team members that will be shadowing Janeway's people, while he remains with the shuttle and its pilot."

Imot started with surprise at the thought that Gunlag would allow him off the ship for a mission of this importance. Gunlag turned to Imot and said, "Expendable, you are to learn how to operate this shuttle for when the technology is ours." Imot nodded.

Gunlag removed an object from his pocket and tossed it to Fflam, saying, "Use this on him if he is foolish enough to try to slip away." Flamm nodded, giving Imot a harsh glare to underscore Gunlag's words. Imot froze when he saw the glint of light on dark metal and realized that Gunlag had given Flamm a punishment device. "Prove to me that you can be trusted on this mission, Expendable," said Gunlag, "and I will consider your scheme to ask the Map Finder for asylum. Fail me, and you will wish you had never been born."

The console beeped with a message from Onslat. Imot turned to Gunlag and reported in a trembling voice that the Tarkada shuttle had arrived. Gunlag waved Flamm and Imot off the bridge to begin their training in the use of the Tarkada personal stealth cloaks. He had genuine misgivings about allowing Imot off the ship at all. Gunlag certainly had no intention of allowing the Expendable to jeopardize the mission by approaching the Map Finder, but the bumbling fool responded well to threats. He knew that Imot would succeed in completely figuring out the Tarkada shuttlepod's stealth technology far sooner than any of his other engineers. Once the map was Gunlag's and he was able to cloak the Herat at will, the possibilities would surely be endless.