The Path of Enlightenment continued
Brother Theo pressed the portal motif on the obelisk, the triangles began to revolve and the obelisk sank into the ground revealing a stairwell leading to an underground passage.
Kathryns first instinct was to whip out her tricorder, but she stopped mid way remembering that it did not work in this planets atmosphere. The three descended into a narrow corridor, the walls were transparent made of crystaline quartz, Theo explained, they were passing through the river.
It felt cool and refreshing to be out of the blazing suns, an airstream was blowing through the tunnel, sharpening their water creatures were in all shapes, sizes and colours from fishes to eels to crustaceans having different names from their earth counterparts but the similarities were noticeable.
A squid like creature had draped itself over the tunnel, its strange colour shimmered a metallic blue, its tentacles undulated and swayed to the rhythm of the music. As they passed further along the river bed the water became deeper and less light was penetrating from the surface, the tunnel itself glowed now, sending beams of golden light piercing the shadows.
Kathryn could hear splashing and laughter, she thought her hearing must be playing tricks on her , what with the heat and intoxicating aromas, her mind must be under its soporific effects. Kathryn looked at Marla who's quizzical look confirmed that she was not hearing things, they both peered out into the eerie glow of the plant life undulating and swaying with the undercurrent of the flowing river.
Brother Theo waited patiently, smiling , knowing how much visitors became enchanted by this spot, he watched them looking intently and eagerly for the source of the sounds. A hard object hit the ceiling with a thud, making Kathryn and Marla instantly step back, even though they could not see who or what caused the noise.
The laughter could be heard more clearly now and closer than before, it did not sound malicious more like mischievous children. "What is out there?" Kathryn asked exasperated that she was unable to see anything.
"Seacorns, Brother Theo explained. A cross between a Unicorn and a Seahorse"
"They are the ones playing and laughing?" Marla asked in wonder straining her eyes trying to catch a glimpse of such wondrous creatures.
"Yes they are curious friendly creatures who love to play and amuse the visitors, you can see them if you wish, after the Illuminatus."
Kathryn sighed and moved on, eager to begin her enlightenment yet reluctant to leave the Seacorns.
Marla began to feel nervous, although she could not pinpoint why, it's not like she was in any danger, but in the back of her mind she felt something was wrong, she did not deserve to be here and hesitated to follow.
Brother Theo saw her reluctance and unease. "You would not be here if it was not ment to be, he said reassuringly.
"Kathryn said strength can come from the most unlikeliest of places or people. It can also come from within if you learn how to tap into it" It's all right Marla, there is nothing we can't face with a little courage and strength together."
Marla nodded somewhat comforted, but not whole heartedly convinced. If this was meant to be, then face it she will, come what may, it could not be worse than anything that had already past since coming to the Delta Quadrant.
Captains personal log supplemental.
The visit to the Sanctuary was painfully emotional, but an enlightening experience none the less. Even though it still leaves many questions unanswered and the situation unchanged, it has brought me peace and consolation that i acted fairly under the circumstances.
The experience inside the Dome itself, well that was a sight to behold. It is indeed a looking glass of wonders. A window to the soul, looking out looking in, to what would have been if I had made the decision not to destroy the Array
As i lay under its cupola the aperture appeared to open a wormhole to the stars, space, the Universe on a different timeline and dimension. I wondered how it worked, could i ask questions about the future. Would it answer my burning desire to know if Voyager makes it back to the Alpha Quadrant, or do we die of old age trying.
I remembered the words of the Priori, that the Illuminatus can show what was, what is, and what will be, depending on the Seekers needs. I focused my thoughts about getting home in the hope that my question would be answered, but instead I received a different version of the past and the consequences of it in the present.
If i had not obliterated the Array, it would now be in the hands of the Kazon Ogla. B'Elanna, Tuvok and Kes would be prisoners. Voyager and the Val Jean destroyed in the battle that ensued when the Kazon reinforcements arrived. The Ocampan home-world under occupation and exploitation by a barbaric and primal race.
Although I would have loved to know if i get my crew home, this vision did put my nagging demon to rest, that has taunted and tormented me every day since stranding so many people in the Delta Quadrant.
Marla has not spoken to me of her experiences while on the planet, but judging from her countenance she has gone through some emotional changes of her own and for the better. She seems far more relaxed and is integrating with the crew, even volunteering for away missions.
I still don't know who our benefactor was, for getting us this invite to the Sanctuary, but I spare a thought for them every day and say a grateful thank you and hope I am able to meet and repay them for the benefits i have received from their actions.