Ongoing Path – The Star Trek Voyager Universe
By Stargatesg1fan1
Disclaimer: I own nothing of any recognized characters or universes within. If I did own these rights Tom Paris would have had a harem.
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Stardate 50912.4…
"You've gotta admit that was a pretty good workout," Harry said to B'Elanna as the pair exited the holodeck and headed down an adjoining corridor towards their quarters.
"It may be a good workout but I'm not sure I like it much," B'Elanna admitted while eying her bat'leth somewhat apprehensively.
"We don't have to continue if you don't want to," Harry assured.
Before B'Elanna could reply there was a shimmering field of faint orange and red energy in the air a few meters down the corridor and a human-appearing alien dressed in gray clothes and a head garment appearing vaguely Quaker in design resolved from the energy field.
"Where am I?" The alien asked.
"The better question is where Kes is?" Harry replied while drawing his personal computer and interfacing with Voyager's computer.
"Kes is no longer onboard?" B'Elanna asked in surprise.
"No, she disappeared at the same time this being appeared," Harry replied. "What is your name and species?"
"My name is Dammar and I am Nyrian," the alien answered. "Why have you abducted me?"
Wielding his bat'leth threateningly Harry said, "I think it's far more likely that you have abducted my girlfriend and are attempting some kind of invasion. We'll know soon enough. B'Elanna, contact the bridge while we escort this intruder to sick-bay for extensive scanning."
As they walked, Dammar with a bat'leth at his back, B'Elanna contacted the bridge, "Torres to the bridge. We have a potential hostile alien onboard Voyager. Note that the same time he appeared Kes was abducted. Tom and I are escorting this Nyrian to sick-bay for scanning."
"Acknowledged B'Elanna," Kathryn's voice answered. "Tuvok and I will join you there."
"Lieutenants…I was informed of your impending arrival. Escort our guest into that area and I will erect a force-field," the Doctor directed.
Once Dammar was in the directed place scans were immediately begun.
"Hmm…it appears as if this Nyrian's physiology requires a warmer climate and less lighting," Denara observed.
"Increasing the temperature to 45°C," the Doctor replied. "And lowering the light level due to the increased photo-receptor density in the ocular nerve," the physician added.
Tuvok and Kathryn walked in at that moment and the redhead prompted, "Report."
While B'Elanna explained what had happened including her mate's suspicions the warlock in question was interfacing with Voyager's sensors and running several deep scans.
"As I thought…this occurrence is not natural. Damn…it just happened again. Another crew member was replaced with a Nyrian," Harry declared.
"Can you block whatever is doing this?" Kathryn asked.
"Yes. But give me some time and I can also trace the path of the artificially generated wormhole that is doing this. It's similar to a Xindi technology the NX-01 encountered back during the Xindi War with Earth. Right, now I've got the Promethium drive adjusted to block the wormhole. I have already recorded the telemetry from the wormhole. We'll need to drop out of Warp and then I can begin calculating the point of origin," Harry explained.
"If this wormhole is artificial then it is likely these Nyrians are responsible," Tuvok suggested. "I will interrogate our prisoners," the Vulcan said while turning to eye Dammar with a cool demeanor.
B'Elanna followed her mate and as soon as they were out of earshot of the others the hybrid asked, "Do you think Kes is ok?"
"I know she is," the sorcerer asserted.
Harry had already tapped into his higher-dimensional senses and using the telepathic link he shared with the Ocampan had traced her location to a Nyrian prison vessel. Kes and Ensign Typeer who had been replaced with the second Nyrian were safe and sound in a holographic prison.
"How can you know that?" B'Elanna questioned.
"Kes and I are far more powerful than anyone realizes. Even across the ten light-years the wormhole has transported her I can still connect with her mind. She's being held on a Nyrian prison ship," Harry explained.
"Are you telepathic too?" B'Elanna wanted to know. Harry only gave an enigmatic half smile in response as he entered his lab. When no answer came she tried asking, "Why didn't you tell the Captain and Tuvok this?"
"I wanted to confirm some things first. The Nyrians obviously use this tactic of replacing crewmembers with their own kind and appearing bewildered to steal assets. Kes is sensing thousands of minds around her and less than two hundred are Nyrian. I want to ensure the rest of the Nyrian ships aren't near the prison ship," Harry explained.
"How can I help?" B'Elanna inquired, just as eager to see Kes safely returned as her boyfriend.
Harry grinned and began working with his beautiful half-Klingon girlfriend to confirm some facts.
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"I think I can find a control room and transmit my location to Voyager," Kes informed her boyfriend after she and Ensign Typeer had finished examining their holographic prison. "There are weaknesses in the hard-light projection fields I can exploit."
"Do so only if you think you can manage it safely," Harry replied.
"Don't worry so much, lover. You've trained me well," the Ocampan pointed out.
And it was true. Kes' training in telepathy, telekinesis, and other manipulations using her powers were progressing well. She was quite capable of defending herself as well as probing regions of spacetime with her burgeoning extra-dimensional senses.
"So what's the plan?" Typeer asked, knowing when the blonde telepath was conversing mentally with her boyfriend from rumors among the crew.
Typeer had never witnessed the exchange himself but recognized the act from the rumors.
"I'm going to wait until a Nyrian comes in to talk to us and then I am going to overpower them. I will perform a mind scan to pick up any useful information on operating their technology," Kes explained.
"I'm going to see if I can make a weapon out of any of the parts of the food replicators or sonic showers they have provided in this environment," Typeer suggested, wanting to have some form of protection to rely upon other than Kes' mental powers.
"I can help. I can communicate with Tom and he is an amazing engineer," Kes suggested.
Typeer nodded his agreement and the two began salvaging parts. Kes was able to probe the parts with her senses and from their atomic structures her mate quickly deduced what they were. Typeer and Kes made two beam weapons similar to a phaser but with no stun setting. Their kidnappers were willing to use hostile force if it became necessary and the two Voyager crewmembers had no trouble responding in kind. Not long after they had finished three Nyrians entered the partially holographic habitat.
"How are your people able to block our translocator?" Taleen demanded.
Taleen was the Nyrian in charge of the day to day operation of the habitat ship. She had never encountered a species which could block her peoples' translocation technology.
"I'm afraid you will never find out," Kes answered with a half grin that sent a shiver down Taleen's spine.
The two male Nyrians carrying energy weapons fell to two rapid shots from Typeer while Kes sent out her mind and invaded the Nyrian female's mind. Kes tore through Taleen's mind without care for the damage her thoughts could cause. Over 96 species were currently imprisoned in the habitat and many more had been inhabitants before that. The Nyrians stole ships, space stations, colonies and more using the translocation technology. The Nyrian language, knowledge of how to operate Nyrian technology, and command codes were all ripped from Taleen's mind. When Kes withdrew the Nyrian female was a husk on the ground, her mind little beyond sparkling psionic energy.
"That was quick," Typeer declared, eying the three downed Nyrians dispassionately and reminding himself never to get on the Ocampan's bad side.
"Come on, let's get to the control room," Kes urged as she strode towards the sealed portal the three Nyrians had entered through.
Kes thrust out her hand and spacetime seemed to ripple in a wave of destructive energy. The portal disintegrated when the blonde's blast hit it, charged photons dissipating and breaking apart. A dimly lit corridor greeted the two Voyager crewmembers. Kes turned left and began walking with familiarity through the halls. The corridor branched off in many directions as Typeer followed Kes. After only three minutes the first Nyrians tried to stop them. Three more armed Nyrians charged around the bend of the corridor Kes and Typeer were walking through. She raised her hand again and sent out a blast of telekinetic force. The Nyrians were thrown back into the corridor wall hard enough to shatter every bone in their bodies. Typeer winced but continued to follow Kes. The groups of attackers grew larger from there and sometimes Typeer had to chip in with the two energy weapons he was carrying. Several times the Nyrians managed to get shots off but Kes would cause spacetime to bend in such a way that the curvature would send the bolts hurtling right back at their origins. She only had to alter spacetime in a diameter as wide as the thin energy beams. It took concentration but she had much practice with phaser blasts back on Voyager. Harry had wanted to make sure his mate could defend herself adequately with her natural powers.
Within fifteen minutes of leaving their habitat the pair had managed to fight their way to the control room of the Nyrian habitat ship. They finished off the last two Nyrians still in the room.
"Guard the doors while I work. I should be able to sense anymore Nyrians approaching but the majority of those left are at the far end of the ship. I can sense that much from here," Kes explained. Typeer nodded once to indicate his agreement. He was a little in awe of the blonde. She had just displayed powers he had only read about in legendary reports made by Federation officers throughout history. Most of these reports he had learned about in the Academy. It was only a few minutes later that Kes announced, "I have locked out any other Nyrians from the system using Taleen's security codes. I did it just in time too because several were attempting to contact their home world."
"Good…then let's let Voyager know where we are," Typeer suggested.
Kes was also hailing Voyager which was eight light-years away.
"Kes," Kathryn said in relief when the Ocampan's image came onto the bridge view screen. "Are you alright?"
"I'm fine Captain…here are our coordinates," Kes said while sending the coordinates. "We managed to stop any of the Nyrians onboard this prison ship from transmitting out but I would still suggest coming in with the cloak enabled."
"A wise precaution," Kathryn agreed. "We are reading thousands of life forms on that ship."
"Yes, over 96 different species," Kes confirmed. "I'm already contacting their home worlds with a standard message explaining that the Nyrians have taken the aliens prisoner and stolen technology. We can also take a copy of the Nyrian database with us."
"Very good," Kathryn said. "We will be there shortly."
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"Ensign Typeer…it is agreeable to see you well," Tuvok told his subordinate as the junior security officer met the Vulcan and several others including Harry at one of the entrances to the control room on the Nyrian prison-ship.
"It's good to see you too, Sir," Typeer replied.
"Tom," Kes greeted her mate with a relieved smile, embracing him in a hug.
"I'm glad you are safe," Harry whispered into Kes' ear while B'Elanna began uploading the Nyrian database to Voyager.
"Can we go back to Voyager now?" Kes asked after she drew back. "I'm tired."
Kes felt the tension draining out of her body the moment she was enfolded in her mate's arms. He would protect her. Her earlier adrenalin rush had faded and now she was quite tired.
"Sure, love," Harry agreed. "I'll take you back to our quarters. B'Elanna, I will return shortly to help you disable the Nyrian security protocols keeping the prisoners contained. Kes has already uploaded what I need to know to my mind."
"Can you send it to me too?" B'Elanna queried curious.
"I can but the knowledge transfer will give you a bit of a headache," Harry replied.
"Do it," B'Elanna answered. B'Elanna staggered as she felt the knowledge being transferred directly into her mind. "You weren't kidding," the hybrid said while rubbing her forehead.
Harry stepped over to her for a moment and kissed her forehead. The pain seemed to almost completely vanish.
"That should help," the mage suggested.
"It did thanks," B'Elanna agreed. "You're just full of surprises. Which is starting to no longer surprise me," the Chief Engineer mused wryly.
"I'll just have to try harder," Harry suggested while Kes leaned harder on him. "I'm going to get her to bed."
B'Elanna nodded her agreement after seeing how tired Kes was.
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"How is Kes?" Kathryn asked after her boyfriend had entered the bridge.
"She's fine. I just put her to bed. She is just tired," Harry assured.
"I'm not surprised given some of the things Ensign Typeer said she did," Kathryn replied, a bit of awe in her tone.
"I told you I was training her to defend herself," Harry pointed out.
"She did more than defend herself. She dominated the Nyrians," Kathryn said.
"The best defense is a good offense. Kes knew she wouldn't be able to sustain a prolonged fight with such superior numbers. So she hit them hard and hit them fast. Trust me, those Nyrians got everything they deserved," Harry assured.
"I know…we have been going over their records and the Nyrians have committed countless atrocities. Not every species went easily. There were many deaths," Kathryn explained. "I'm not condemning Kes. I just found it curious she was so capable of defending herself."
"How is it going with the released prisoners?" Harry queried.
"The remaining Nyrians have already been rounded up. Starfleet is dispatching one of the new holo-shuttles to deal with the rest of the matters here," Kathryn explained. "They don't want us to delay our journey any longer than we have to."
The holo-shuttles were Warp 10 capable shuttles which were actually much larger than standard shuttle craft but smaller than a starship. These holo-shuttles were crewed by holographic entities modeled off the Doctor's upgraded program equipped with mobile-emitters much like the devices Denara and the Doctor used. In some cases some of the holographic forms were controlled by biological Starfleet officers back on Earth. With the Paris array technology being incorporated into the shuttles real time control could be maintained.
"Sounds good to me," Harry agreed.
Voyager was gone within an hour.
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Stardate 50953.4…
"B'Elanna darling…did you come up with this novel yourself?" Harry asked as he walked in on his girlfriend in the middle of a holo-novel.
B'Elanna was standing in a holographic cargo bay onboard Voyager positioned next to Chakotay and Seska while they pointed weapons at many of Voyager's crew.
"Computer freeze program," B'Elanna commanded. "Tom, why are you in this program? I wouldn't have expected you to barge in."
"I'm sorry, love. I grew a bit worried when you didn't make our lunch date and wanted to make sure you were alright," Harry explained as B'Elanna drew up in front of him.
"I can't stay mad at you. It is so damn frustrating sometimes. I didn't realize it was lunchtime already," B'Elanna said. "This program is really something. I was doing a routine purge of the database to delete old files that were taking up space and I found this holo-novel. It's a kind of what-if story all about a Maquis mutiny. It's completely compelling and believable. I guess because it's all about us."
B'Elanna's excitement made Harry smile.
"Who wrote this holo-novel?" The sorcerer queried.
"That is the big mystery," B'Elanna answered. "Whoever wrote it used high encryption to cloak their identity."
"This novel has the potential to be quite controversial. I'm not surprised this author encrypted their identity," Harry mused. "In any case, you need to eat. You're already far too thin," the mage urged while taking his lover by the arm and leading her out of the holo-deck.
"But…but I want to finish the novel," B'Elanna objected.
"The only buts I want to experience today are attached to lovely females just like you," Harry teased. B'Elanna rolled her eyes but followed her boyfriend to the mess hall. "You can tell me more about this novel over lunch."
Excitement filled B'Elanna's expressive eyes and she began recounting her experience in the new novel. Harry decided to experience it for himself. He copied the program over to Hogwarts and used the more advanced version of a holographic simulator. The Hogwarts simulator had several modes including a setting which conjured real matter. Organisms were still controlled by the computer but their bodies were all flesh and blood.
Harry appeared in the Hogwarts simulator dressed in the uniform of a security officer. Suddenly Chakotay walked around a corner and alongside the mage.
"Where are you headed?" Chakotay asked.
"The bridge, Sir," Harry replied.
"Do you mind if I walk with you?" Chakotay queried.
"Not at all, Sir," Harry agreed.
"Is Tuvok still giving you a hard time?" Chakotay asked.
"He's Vulcan…that should go without saying," Harry pointed out.
"The idea of spending seven decades on a ship with Tuvok gives me a headache," Chakotay declared.
"I know the feeling," Harry agreed while opening the turbo-lift the two had arrived at.
"Bridge," Chakotay prompted the lift.
"So why do you bring up Tuvok? Did he do something more grievous than usual to tick you off?" Harry queried.
"His entire demeanor does that well enough. There are going to be some changes around here real soon…possibly changes in leadership if you know what I mean," Chakotay hinted at.
"I do," Harry confirmed. "I think I'd like to get home faster than Janeway is going to get us back to Earth."
"If that's the case, then as soon as the Captain leaves the ship on her away mission with Paris I want you to put all crew quarters on lockdown. Can you do that, Ensign?" Chakotay prompted.
"Yes Sir," Harry agreed, deciding that playing along in a simulation might be more fun than ending up in the brig.
"When I ask you if you are finished upgrading the internal sensors and you say yes I will know you are ready to go," Chakotay explained.
The two exited the turbo-lift at that moment onto the bridge.
"We are entering the Recony sector, Commander," Tuvok announced.
"Inform the Captain," Chakotay directed.
"Aye, Sir," Tuvok agreed.
Harry walked over to the Mission Ops II console just in time for Kathryn to enter the bridge.
"Well Commander, Voyager is all yours," Kathryn informed Chakotay.
"There is a first time for everything I guess," Chakotay said. "Don't worry Captain. I will keep your ship safe and sound."
"I am sure you will," Kathryn agreed.
"Shuttle bay to Captain Janeway," Harry heard his own voice coming through the com system.
It appeared the holographic Tom Paris would be accompanying Kathryn.
"Go ahead, Mr. Paris," Kathryn prompted.
"The shuttle is ready to go whenever you are, Ma'am," Holographic-Tom replied.
"I am on my way," Kathryn replied before turning to leave.
"Captain, I have been thinking. Are you sure you don't want to take Lt. Tuvok with you?" Chakotay inquired. "Just in case the Recony turn out to be more than they seem," the Commander added as Kathryn paused at Tuvok's station to look at him inquiringly.
"I assure you Commander that I have made thorough arrangements for the Captain's safety during her away mission," said Tuvok. "You on the other hand are still adapting to your duties as first officer. I believe my abilities would be better suited in assisting you in your efforts to justify the trust the captain has placed in you."
"I appreciate your concern for my safety Chakotay but Lt. Paris will keep me safe," Kathryn assured. "I will see you in 24 hours," she added before leaving the bridge.
"Lieutenant, I want you to keep close tabs on the Captain's shuttle so we can make sure she doesn't run into any trouble," Chakotay directed Tuvok.
"Aye, Sir," Tuvok responded.
"Ensign, let's shut down the transporters and start that diagnostic we have been putting off," the Commander directed HK.
"Sir, are you sure we shouldn't wait for the Captain to get back?" Kim questioned.
"Ensign Kim, you have been given a direct order. Do as the Commander told you," Tuvok rebuked.
"Aye, Sir," Kim agreed.
Chakotay walked next to Harry and asked, "Have you finished upgrading the internal sensors?"
"Yes, Sir," Harry confirmed.
Two men entered the bridge and one handed Chakotay a data pad.
"Is anything wrong, Sir?" Tuvok asked.
"No, it's just tomorrow's duty roster," Chakotay assured.
"The Captain's shuttle has gone to Warp," the Vulcan announced several moments later.
"Thank you, Tuvok," replied the Commander. Then to activate the ship's com he said, "Chakotay to all hands…let's do it."
Chakotay drew a phaser and shot Tuvok. Harry watched as HK fired at one of the two new arrivals but the other knocked the sensor officer out with a quick phaser blast.
"Take them to the brig," Chakotay directed those who had not resisted while indicating Tuvok and several other crewmembers.
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Cargo Bay One a short while later…
"We won't be wasting precious time stopping to investigate every insignificant anomaly we come across. What we will do is use any means necessary to acquire technology that can shorten our journey," Chakotay addressed those crew who hadn't actively defied his mutiny but hadn't declared their allegiance either. "The hell with Starfleet regulations…you have fifteen minutes to make up your minds."
The addressed crewmembers began joining one by one starting with Neelix.
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"It sounds like your experience was very similar to mine," B'Elanna said after her boyfriend had finished recounting his time in the holo-novel.
Just then HK walked up and asked, "So what is this I hear about a new holo-novel?"
"Who did you let it slip to?" Harry asked B'Elanna in amusement.
"I may have let it slip to the Doctor during his routine maintenance," B'Elanna admitted sheepishly.
"In other words the news will be all over the ship before the end of the day," Harry clarified.
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Harry reengaged the holo-novel the next day since he had been forced to pause it to go deal with a problem onboard Voyager and he wasn't in any particular rush to get through the novel. The mage had plenty to keep himself entertained.
"Where the hell are those Warp engines?" Chakotay demanded of Seska when she came on the bridge.
The bridge crewmembers were wearing standard Maquis dress.
"They are still offline," Seska answered with a shrug. "We can't seem to get the dilithium matrix reinitialized."
"It has been two days," Chakotay complained.
Harry had to keep from smirking. There was no way the dilithium matrix was going to be realigned until the wizard wanted it that way. He was sabotaging the ship and communicating with holo-Janeway.
"Don't worry. B'Elanna is on it," Seska assured.
B'Elanna was on a lot of things but the Dilithium Matrix wasn't one of them. Harry found it highly amusing that his aura worked even on holographic forms of life. Of course that could have been because Hogwarts' version of B'Elanna was more flesh than hologram. Holo-B'Elanna wanted to be on only one thing and that was Harry.
"Run a full security sweep," Chakotay directed Harry. "Something tells me there is more to this engine problem than a faulty dilithium matrix."
"How quaint…his small brain won't let him perceive the truth," Qadesh declared as she appeared on the bridge.
"Hello dear…don't ruin my entertainment please," Harry requested of the redhead.
She liked to pop in from time to time and mix things up.
Qadesh pouted and said, "You're no fun. I've worn both Libby and Rain out."
"There is the Alternate Voyager crew to amuse yourself with," Harry suggested.
"They are not as fun as you would think," Qadesh mused. "I will just silently observe you for now."
While the lovers had been conversing holo-Janeway's shuttle had arrived out of Warp near holo-Voyager. Seska opened a channel at Chakotay's direction.
"Hello Kathryn. How did it go with the Recony?" Chakotay inquired.
"You are out of uniform, Commander," Kathryn replied.
Her glare was positively glacial.
"There have been a few changes since you have been gone," Chakotay said.
"So I have heard. You think I don't have any friends left on Voyager?" The Captain answered.
"I'm sure you do but I will soon find them," Chakotay promised.
"Do you then intend to kill them or just put them off the ship?" Kathryn inquired.
"Nobody needs to die," Chakotay said.
"I wish I could believe that. But I am finding anything you say these days hard to believe," Kathryn declared.
"I am truly sorry things had to be this way. But those onboard Voyager just want to get home quickly and I think you have proven your ways are not the fastest way," Chakotay pointed out.
"Her way at least broke the Warp threshold," holo-Tom said from next to Kathryn.
"We may not have a Warp drive functioning at this moment but I can assure you that our weapons systems are fully functional," Chakotay declared.
"They are powering phasors," Harry announced.
"Don't be foolish, Kathryn," Chakotay urged.
"I'm rarely foolish Chakotay and never when it counts," Kathryn rebutted before cutting off the communiqué and opening fire.
"Somehow they managed to disable our shields. We are completely vulnerable," Harry announced.
"We need to destroy them," Seska urged.
"Do it," Chakotay ordered.
A beam of energy lanced out and hit the Warp core of the shuttle. It exploded.
"I always thought Janeway was a fool but even I didn't think she would be dumb enough to challenge a Federation Starship in a shuttle," Seska said with a sneer.
"Intruder alert on deck 8," the ship's computer announced.
"Janeway isn't stupid. She transported over while the shields were down. The time we spent destroying her shuttle which was probably programmed to automatically attack allowed her to escape detection long enough for her to access the prisoners," Chakotay said with realization. "You are with me," he said to Harry as Chakotay left the bridge. "Get away from that panel," Chakotay said as he stormed into the transporter room with phaser aimed at Janeway.
Before Chakotay could get off a shot he was hit with a phaser beam in the back.
"Thank you, Ensign," Janeway told the mage playing a security officer.
Just then the holo-novel ended.
"It would seem this novel needs an ending," Qadesh suggested. "Your Tuvok couldn't finish what he started like a typical bipedal male."
"Woman, I always finish what I start with you," Harry challenged.
"You are far from a typical male, my love," Qadesh replied.
"Don't you forget it," Harry said before using his neural interface to open the editing feature of the holo-novel. "Hmm…it would appear this holo-novel is attempting to take control of several of our main systems. It would have succeeded with Voyager."
The holographic scene shifted until Qadesh and Harry found themselves in Voyager's brig.
"Hello, Tuvok," Holo-Seska greeted. "I have been expecting you. If you can see me then you have obviously reopened the narrative parameters file of the tactical scenario you have been working on. I would have thought all that time you spent spying on us Maquis would have given you a little more insight into the Maquis. After looking over what you have already written I can see you need a little help. I have created this representation of myself to guide you through the rest of the program. I finished writing this simulation for you with a few revisions of my own."
"She sealed the holo-deck and disabled the safety parameters. My, isn't this monkey rather naughty," Qadesh commented with a smirk.
"She must have found Tuvok's program before I reprogrammed her mind to behave," Harry mused. Through his neural interface he had the Hogwarts AI wrestle control of Seska's modified program. Holo-Seska vanished. "Now, let's maybe use Seska's little plot twist in the actual revision. She can be introduced as a second baddie that has it bad for Chakotay and wants to punish anyone that threatens him."
"Which I assume is the person playing the novel," Qadesh suggested.
"Indeed," Harry agreed.
The two powerhouses began modifying the program to give the story plenty of twists and turns that would surprise the person playing the holo-novel.
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"Now that our regular business is over Lieutenant Paris informs me there is a new holo-novel that has become quite popular among the crew," Kathryn said.
"It has been accessed forty-seven times by thirty-three different crewmembers," Chakotay added.
"I don't suppose anyone here is familiar with what we are talking about," Kathryn suggested.
"I'm the one who found it on the auxiliary database when cleaning out deleted files," B'Elanna announced.
"And Tuvok is the one who wrote it," Harry revealed causing everyone to turn their attention to the Vulcan.
"How did you know, Mr. Paris?" Tuvok queried, seeing no point in denying what he was prepared to admit in the first place.
"There isn't much encryption I can't bypass given sufficient time. Besides that, I have experienced much Vulcan literature. Your people produce literature which possesses a certain…rationality to it," Harry explained with a wry smile. "It can be quit enjoyable at times."
"I'm afraid there has been a misunderstanding. The program in question is not a holo-novel. It is a tactical training scenario I began developing shortly after the Maquis joined the crew and a conflict seemed likely. As the two crews began to work together I concluded the threat of an insurrection became increasingly less likely," Tuvok explained. "I realized the program itself might exacerbate the conflict I sought to avoid. Therefore I deleted the scenario, or so I believed."
"Apparently you didn't account for B'Elanna's exceptional computer skills," Kathryn pointed out.
"Nor her somewhat excessive curiosity," Tuvok agreed. "I apologize for my carelessness, Captain. The program has the potential to incite animosity among the crew and must be permanently deleted."
"With all due respect Mr. Tuvok, loosen up," Kathryn replied. "You may have created this program with the intention of it to be used as a tactical training tool but it appears to be a bit of harmless fun at this point."
"If the crew doesn't get an ending you might have a real mutiny on your hands," Chakotay suggested which caused everyone but the Vulcan to laugh.
"I thought you might feel as you do Tuvok so I took the liberty of finishing the story," Harry announced. "The finished story is loaded in your personal files for your review."
"This should be interesting," Kathryn declared with a grin.
"I will review the ending," Tuvok agreed.
The meeting broke up. Tuvok caught up with the pilot in the mess hall later that evening. The normally unruffled Chief of Security looked like he had just been through the ringer. He approached the table where Harry was dining with his mates and several other friends.
"How was the novel?" B'Elanna asked.
"It was quite…engaging. The Borg were an unexpected twist but your journey to get there was quite plausible," Tuvok replied.
"No spoilers, Tuvok," Kes cried with mock warning.
"I apologize. I approve of Mr. Paris' work," Tuvok announced. "Now if you will excuse me…I must go freshen up and then meditate."
The group turned to Harry when Tuvok had left and HK asked, "Just what did you do to Tuvok?"
"You will just have to experience it for yourself," Harry suggested.
"I call dibs first," B'Elanna called as she shot to her feet.
"I'm pulling rank after her," Kathryn said.
The others expressed similar preferences for viewing order. Harry found this all highly amusing and just sat back and watched his companions banter for the next viewing spots. This was much more amusing than watching Seska attempt to kill Tuvok. This way Seska's past as a spy on the Maquis wouldn't have to come out. She and Chakotay were as thick as thieves and he would be devastated if Seska's past was revealed.
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Stardate 50984.3…
"What have you got?" Kathryn asked as she entered engineering.
"The long range probe we sent out two months ago has stopped transmitting. At first we thought it was the communications grid. But after bringing up the last few seconds of telemetry I found this," B'Elanna explained as she keyed up video of a Borg cube approaching the probe with another cube in the background.
The video switched to showing the interior of one of the cube's bays followed by a drone taking apart the probe.
"It would appear we are at the edge of Borg space," Harry pointed out.
"Call a briefing of the senior staff," Kathryn ordered.
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"We have no idea how many Borg ships are out there but their space appears to be vast and includes thousands of solar systems. All are Borg. There is no bypassing this space," Kathryn explained.
"Before the probe was disabled it picked up a narrow corridor of space devoid of Borg activity," Chakotay explained while bringing the route up on a view screen. "We have nicknamed this corridor the Northwest Passage."
"Unfortunately the passage is filled by intense gravitometric distortions probably caused by a string of quantum singularities," B'Elanna added.
"Why not try and go through Borg space with our cloak always on?" Kes inquired.
"I wouldn't want to bet that a Borg cube couldn't detect us even under cloak. If there is more than one cube at a time we run across I would bet the cloak would do little more than give their targeting scanners trouble," Harry explained.
"Weapons status," Kathryn prompted.
"I have reprogrammed the phaser banks to a rotating modulation," Tuvok replied. "I suspect the Borg will adapt quickly."
"I've configured the long range sensors to scan for Trans-warp signatures as an early warning system," Ensign Kim added.
"By working together with Denara, Lieutenant Paris, and Lieutenant Torres we have come up with a nano-probe injection that we believe will neutralize the Borg's assimilation efforts," the Doctor announced. "I will begin injecting crewmembers with this defense immediately."
"Work quickly. The Borg know we are out here. If and when we do engage the Borg I'm confident we will be ready," Janeway said. "Let's do it."
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Voyager began to buzz with activity. All crew members were on alert to the threat of a Borg invasion. Nobody went anywhere without a shield emitter pendant. It was in between one of the injection sessions with the new defense against assimilation that Kes seemed to stare intently at some of the Borg corpses that had been kept for examination.
"Kes, are you alright?" The Doctor asked.
"She's having a premonition, Doctor," Harry assured.
"I saw mangled Borg corpses. Dozens of them were piled in a horrible array…like a sculpture," Kes explained.
The Ocampan forced herself to calm down using some of the techniques taught to her by her mate.
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"How is Kes?" Kathryn asked her lover as he entered the bridge.
"I have calmed her down. Over the past several hours she has had premonitions of the death of many Borg and the destruction of Voyager. I have been helping her deal with similar visions for some time but never have they disconcerted her so much. She can usually see into parallel timelines but it is unusual to see images in a single timeline so frequently. Perhaps the probability of what she sees this time is much greater than before," Harry explained.
"Captain, long range sensors are picking up trans-warp signatures 5.8 light-years distant closing from behind," HK announced at that moment.
"Red alert," Chakotay called.
"We are falling out of Warp. There is some kind of subspace turbulence preventing the Warp field from remaining stable," Harry declared. "The cloak is on. I'm picking up fifteen Borg ships. Their combined trans-warp is creating a bubble of destabilized subspace for normal Warp travel."
Harry brought the armada up on the screen. The pilot threw Voyager into a complex maneuver which threaded through the spatial wakes of the massive cubes. One of the cubes stopped at the end of the armada as the rest flew past.
"I'm picking up a polaron beam," HK announced.
Harry worked quickly, dropping the cloak so that it covered only the Promethium drive and the advanced spatial disruptor he had installed while intensifying the cloaking field. The green beam of energy swept through the ship. The cube finished its scan and rejoined the others. Harry had suspected that the Borg were preoccupied and would probably not bother with Voyager if it was a standard Federation starship. But if Voyager's upgrades were detected then the Borg would most likely pursue Voyager until the collective obtained those upgrades.
"Warp engines are coming back online," HK announced.
"Stand down red alert," Kathryn instructed. "Maintain a long range sensor lock on that Borg armada. I would like to know what had them in such a hurry. Resume our course, Tom."
"Shouldn't they have tried to assimilate the Promethium drive or some of the other upgrades you have made like the spatial disruptor?" Chakotay asked Harry.
"I managed to drop the cloaking field and intensify it around those systems. I don't think they detected those systems," Harry explained.
"Good work," Kathryn praised.
Hours later an interesting occurrence happened.
"The power signatures of the Borg vessels in that armada we have been tracking have terminated," Tuvok announced.
"They are dead in the water approximately 5.2 light-years from here," HK added.
"Set a course for their position, Tom," Janeway instructed. "Warp 2."
When Voyager drew close it slowed to impulse speed. The wreckage of the Borg vessels was brought up on the view screen.
"I'm only detecting a few erratic life signs," HK announced.
"Captain, I am detecting two separate weapons signatures among the debris. One is Borg and I cannot identify the other," Tuvok said.
"It would appear there is a powerful new species in our galaxy or at least one the Federation has never encountered," Harry suggested.
"We might have just found our ticket through Borg space, an ally," HK added.
"It's too soon to make that assumption," Harry corrected.
"I'm picking up some unusual bio-readings coming from the outer hull of one of the Borg ships that is more intact than some of the other cubes," HK announced.
"It's a ship…a bio-ship," Harry added while bringing the image up on the view screen.
He magnified the image to reveal a ship that was just smaller than Voyager in size. The alien craft had several spires that made it look something like an insect.
"Our sensors can't penetrate its surface," HK said.
"Send a standard greeting," Kathryn instructed.
"No response," Tuvok said a few moments later.
"The occupant or occupants are likely on the cube," Harry suggested after analyzing Hogwarts' scans of the bio-ship.
"Will a tractor beam pull that vessel away from the cube?" Kathryn asked.
"The tractor beam had no effect," Tuvok replied.
"Is there a detectable atmosphere in the cube?" Kathryn queried.
"Yes," Tuvok answered.
"Chakotay, I want you to take an away team inside. Try to get a short range scan of the bio-ship's interior," Kathryn instructed. "At the first sign of trouble we will pull you out of there."
"Tuvok, Harry, Tom, you three are with me," Chakotay said.
A short while later the quartet materialized into a corridor of the heavily damaged cube. Each person carried a personal shield pendant.
"The bio-ship is this way," Harry directed while leading the way.
There were still active drones attempting to make repairs on the cube.
"Lower your weapons. If we don't appear threatening they should ignore us," Tuvok advised.
The corridors were filled with sparks from damaged power conduits and venting coolant. Harry walked around a corridor and found a pile of Borg body parts arranged in a familiar array.
"This is just what Kes foresaw," Harry informed his companions.
"Didn't she also say we were all going to die," HK pointed out.
The away team soon found the entrance to the bio-ship.
"It appears the bio-mass dissolved right through the cube's hull," Chakotay observed.
"This Borg drone is attempting to assimilate the bio-mass," Tuvok added as a Borg drone extended his injection tubules into the hull of the bio-ship but received a discharge of energy into the tubules for his efforts.
"There is a chamber approximately forty-meters wide beyond this opening containing a high concentration of anti-matter particles," Chakotay observed.
"If my readings of this ship are correct then the bio-matter the ship is constructed of is highly resistant to radiation. If the life-form which engineered the ship is as skilled in bio-engineering as this vessel would suggest it is highly conceivable that they would possess the same resilience. Our shields will protect us against the radiation but I don't recommend staying for prolonged periods of time," Harry informed his companions.
"Harry, that is a Borg data node. See if you can download their tactical database," Chakotay instructed while indicating a terminal nearby. "Then we might learn what happened here."
Chakotay then led the way further into the ship. The inside of the ship was lined with ridged supports which looked like spinal columns. There was sparse lighting.
"These seem to be organic conduits which transfer electro-dynamic fluid," Tuvok observed.
"This is their version of a computer core but it's organic like the rest of the ship. They grow their own neural networks. Fascinating," Harry added as he scanned a glittering structure that flashed repeatedly in a pattern.
"This damage appears to have been caused by a Borg disruptor beam. The wall also seems to be regenerating itself," Tuvok observed while glancing between the wall and his tricorder.
The Vulcan proceeded further into the damaged corridor and spotted a Borg drone which had a growth covering its body.
"We need to go," Harry called. "Kes just had another premonition. The bio-ship's pilot is returning."
The trio took off out of the bio-ship. They arrived just in time to see a creature with four legs and two arms break through a bulkhead and crash into Ensign Kim. The alien's blow on Kim caused the Ensign to immediately begin screaming. Harry drilled the alien with a beam from a miniature version of his spatial disruptor. The alien was thrown back into the bulkhead and its tissue started to tear apart but at that moment Voyager transported the away team back to their ship. Harry was transported straight to the bridge and he sat down at the helm.
"The bio-ship is powering its weapons," Harry announced. "I'm going to get us out of here."
Voyager began to turn away but the bio-ship turned first. A massive jagged bolt of yellow energy shot from the tip of the bio-ship and hit Voyager's defenses. Despite the Promethium drive the entire ship shuddered under the onslaught. The attacking energy possessed components rooted in the higher dimensions. Harry returned fire with the spatial disruptor but didn't stick around to see the effects. Instead he took Voyager into Warp.
"I could hear the alien's thoughts. The pilot of the bio-ship was trying to telepathically communicate with me. Their entire species is telepathic. It said the weak will perish," Kes announced.
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As the hours after the away team had returned to Voyager progressed the chest wound Ensign Kim sustained despite his personal shield allowed an infection to spread throughout his entire body. A growth began to appear and spread over his skin.
"It looks like he is being transformed in some way," Kathryn noted.
"The alien cells are consuming his body from the inside out," the Doctor announced. "I've tried to give him a sedative but it was rejected immediately. Every treatment I have tried has been neutralized within seconds. These are alien cells," the AI explained as he brought images up on his work station for Kathryn to see. Harry, Kes, and Denara were also present. They had all been helping the Doctor to find a cure. "Each alien cell contains more than a hundred times the DNA of a human cell. It's the most densely coded life-form I've ever heard of. Even with my processing power I would need years to decipher it."
"Their immune response is extraordinary," Denara added. "Anything that penetrates the cell membrane be it biological, chemical, or technological is instantly destroyed. That's why the Borg can't assimilate this life-form."
"Resistance in this case is far from futile," added the Doctor. "Never fear…we have a plan. We have reprogrammed Borg nano-probes to emit the same electrochemical signatures as the alien cells. This will allow the nano-probes to do their work without being detected. Watch this," the AI continued while bringing up an experiment on his work station. "The alien cells are completely oblivious to the nano-probes until it is too late."
"Our nano-probe construction systems are working right now to create the necessary nano-probes to cure Harry," Kes added. "But these new probes are different than the standard type we have been creating to inoculate the crew. Right now we're not sure if our construction systems can create the required number of nano-probes quickly enough. We've already begun injecting the probes we have created so far into Harry and we hope it will slow the spread of the alien cells."
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"We've analyzed the Borg tactical database. They refer to this new alien race as Species 8472," B'Elanna informed Kathryn, Chakotay, and Tuvok.
Harry stood next to B'Elanna, having helped her to decrypt the Borg computer protections.
"Over the past five months the Borg have fought Species 8472 several times and each time the Borg lost quickly," Harry added.
"Species 8472 comes from the region of space known to us as the Northwest Passage," B'Elanna added grimly.
"We have detected 133 bio-ships at the point we plan to enter the passage," Harry informed his companions. "More are approaching as we speak. We'll be at that region within minutes. Our cloak is on. We have powered down all non-critical systems and hopefully that will help us minimize the risk of detection."
"Here is where the bio-ships really come from," B'Elanna said while bringing up a live sensor feed of the bio-ships emerging from quantum singularities.
Kes entered the bridge at that point and said, "I can sense inside the space where the aliens live. No other life form lives there. I sense malevolence and a cold hatred. It's an invasion. They intend on purging our galaxy of life."
"Tom, reverse course and take us five light-years out and hold position. Maintain red alert," Kathryn ordered.
That night Kathryn was restless.
"We're going to be alright," Harry assured his mate as he began to rub her shoulders.
The redhead snuggled up against her man. B'Elanna and Kes were on the other side of the bed. The Klingon-human hybrid was spooning against the Ocampan's backside.
"I don't know what to do in this situation," Kathryn lamented. "Going into that corridor is deadly."
"What do your instincts tell you is an alternative…no matter how crazy it sounds?" Harry probed.
Kathryn was silent for half a minute while she enjoyed the massage. Then her eyes snapped open and she garnered inspiration.
"I've got it!" Kathryn said.
"Shhh…you'll wake Kes and B'Elanna," Harry cautioned. "Now get some sleep. You can tell the crew your plan in the morning."
Kathryn felt herself relax in her lover's embrace. His powerful arms encircled her torso. She may be the one to give him orders during the day but at night and in private he guided her smoothly. She slept peacefully, feeling safe in his arms.
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"In developing the treatment for Harry the Doctor has found a way to attack Species 8472 at a microscopic level. I propose we offer the Borg a defense against their enemy in exchange for safe passage through their territory," Kathryn said to the senior crew.
"It's still in the experimental stages, Captain. I don't think it's ready to be weaponized yet," the Doctor pointed out.
"The Borg know practically nothing about Species 8472. They gain knowledge through assimilation. What they can't assimilate they can't easily understand. Species 8472 lived in a realm with no other life-forms so there is nobody with knowledge of them," B'Elanna said.
"We don't assimilate. We investigate and that has given us an edge in this case," Kathryn added, continuing the line of thought of her Chief Engineer.
"If what I've learned from Species 8472 is correct…the Borg are losing this conflict badly. The Borg will be desperate," Kes suggested.
"What makes you think the Borg won't attempt to take the information by assimilating Voyager and its crew," Tuvok pointed out.
"Because I have created a device in my lab that will create an explosion so powerful that any matter within a one light-year radius will be atomized should I trigger the device. We will inform the Borg that if they even attempt to assimilate us I will atomize all knowledge on how to modify their nano-probes," Harry explained, causing the room to go silent.
"I don't think it will come to that but there is our guarantee," Kathryn declared. "It's in the interest of the Collective to cooperate. The safe passage of one ship is a small price to pay for the Collective for what we are offering. Tom, locate the nearest Borg vessel and lay in a course."
"Yes, Ma'am," Harry replied.
After the senior officers left to carry out their duties Chakotay expressed his doubts about the plan to Kathryn in the form of a parable about a fox and a scorpion. The scorpion asked the fox to take him across the river on the fox's back. The fox at first rejected the idea for fear of being stung and then drowning. The scorpion denied such an action for both would drown if the scorpion stung the fox. The fox gave in and halfway across the river was stung for his efforts. As the venom filled his veins the fox asked the scorpion why he had done it. The scorpion replied that he couldn't help but sting the fox for it was in the scorpion's nature. Chakotay wanted to give up and stay on the side of Borg space Voyager was currently on. He suggested Voyager might find another way home. Kathryn wouldn't accept that. Harry tended to agree with his mate. One way or another, he would see Voyager safely through Borg space.
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It didn't take Voyager long to reach a star system teeming with Borg cubes.
"There are three planets in this system inhabited by nothing but Borg," Tuvok announced. "A cube is approaching."
"All stop," Kathryn ordered. "Shields up…but leave the Promethium drive down for now. If things get bad…bring it up quickly, Tom."
The cube pulled to a stop in front of Voyager, dwarfing the Federation vessel.
"They're hailing us," Tuvok said.
"Open a channel," Kathryn replied.
"We are the Borg. You will be assimilated. Resistance is futile," the multiple toned deep voice of the Borg came over the com system before a tractor beam locked onto Voyager.
"Borg vessel, this is Captain Janeway of the starship Voyager. I possess tactical information about Species 8472. I will negotiate for it. Failure to negotiate will result in the detonation of an explosive which will atomize every bit of matter in this system including the tactical information we possess," Kathryn replied. The redhead nodded to B'Elanna who transmitted the results of an experiment showing a small amount of cells from Species 8472 being assimilated in the lab. No information about the modified nano-probes was transmitted. "You have ten seconds to comply before the data you are seeing is destroyed."
Suddenly Kathryn was transported away from Voyager and onto the cube. Immediately her mate's senses were shadowing the redhead, ready to strike out and snatch her back while decimating the cube.
"State your demands," the Borg instructed.
"I want safe passage through your space. Once my ship is beyond Borg territory you will receive our research," Kathryn proposed.
"Unacceptable," the Borg rebutted. "Your passage across our vast territory will require too much time. We need the technology now."
"Safe passage must be achieved first or no deal. I don't care how many must die. My ship will pass through your territory safely," Kathryn argued.
"State your proposal," the Borg said.
"Even if you received the technology this instant it would still take you considerable time to develop it. If we helped you as you escorted us through your space we could perfect the weapon in a shorter time," Kathryn suggested.
Just then the cube shuddered. A bio-ship had just attacked the cube.
"A quantum singularity has appeared 20,000 kilometers away," Tuvok announced back on Voyager's bridge. "The bio-ship is heading towards the planet."
"Don't worry, Tuvok. Just be ready to fire with that spatial disruptor. If things get any worse I can get the Captain out of the cube and us out of here," Harry advised.
"There are nine more bio-ships emerging from the singularity," B'Elanna added. "I think things are getting worse."
"They're not targeting us," Harry replied as the nine new arrivals took up formation behind the first arrival and fired at the spires running around the aft section of the ship. The energy combined into a massive beam that struck towards the planet. "It's an omega-class planetary destruction beam!"
Hyper-charged matter began to speed away from the dying planet and impact the cube. The Borg vessel began to speed away from the planet even as the celestial body exploded and took two other cubes with it.
"Report," Chakotay ordered.
"I have a lock on Captain Janeway," B'Elanna said.
"No you don't," Harry corrected. "The Borg are employing countermeasures. Our normal sensors just aren't detecting them."
"We are being hailed," Tuvok announced.
"On screen," Chakotay instructed.
"I have reached an agreement with the Collective. We will help the Borg develop a weapon against Species 8472 in exchange for safe passage through their space. We'll work on the weapon in route to the Alpha Quadrant. Once we are across their territory we will give them the nano-probes. Tom, transport to my coordinates. We are going to make this work, Commander. Janeway out," the redhead said before the communication shut off.
Harry transported over to the cube.
"Let's get to work," Harry suggested.
"We need to go to grid 92 of sub-junction 12 to our very own work station," Kathryn said. "It's near the center of the cube."
"You will be interested to know that we have learned from our analysis of the bio-ship scans and the Species 8472 themselves that they and their ships are made of the same materials," Harry informed his mate.
A drone stopped them in a room a short ways ahead.
"You have entered grid 92 of sub-junction 12," the voice of the Collective announced. "Proceed."
"We have determined from analysis that the bio-ships used by species 8472 are vulnerable to the modified nano-probes," Kathryn announced. "I suggest we begin thinking about a large scale delivery system."
A drone behind Kathryn moved to force her to the ground and another drone moved to do the same to Harry. The warlock drew a dagger from his uniform and plunged it through the chest of the drone coming after him several times. He moved towards the drone holding down Kathryn and did the same.
"A neural transceiver is required for maximum communication," the Collective said a few moments later as another drone approached the pair.
"We communicate our way or the deal is off and I will destroy this ship," Harry warned as he took out the next drone. "Choose a single Borg to work with us and talk directly."
After catching on Kathryn added, "You've done it before when you transformed Jean Luc Picard into Locutus. We will not be assimilated. Choose a representative or the deal is off."
The drones from another chamber stopped advancing to the room. A Borg drone in a regeneration alcove of an adjacent room disconnected from the alcove and walked forward.
"I speak for the Borg," she said.
"I am Captain Janeway. This is Lieutenant Paris. What is your designation?" Kathryn asked.
"I am designated Seven of Nine, tertiary adjunct of Unimatrix 01," the Borg drone said. "You may call me Seven of Nine. We concur with your proposal for a large scale weapon."
"We have thought about encasing the nano-probes in some of our photon torpedoes," Harry suggested. "They would be bio-molecular warheads."
"Such a delivery method would be inadequate. They lack the necessary range and dispersive force. Follow me," Seven directed. Kathryn and her lover followed the Borg. Seven was recognizably human. Her body beneath the Borg armor was perfectly shaped. From what could be seen of her features through the Borg implants she would also be attractive without Borg meddling. Seven led the way down the hall to a computer console. "A multi-kinetic neutronic mine, five million iso-ton yield," Seven explained as the diagram of the mine came up on the console screen.
"That would have a range of approximately five light-years," Harry pointed out.
"It would," Seven agreed. "It would be efficient."
"You would endanger innocent worlds," Kathryn said.
"You don't have the time to replicate the necessary fifty trillion nano-probes required to arm such a mine," Harry added. "You are losing this war."
"If we use smaller warheads and destroy a few bio-ships it may deter Species 8472. Right now they think they are invulnerable to your technology," Kathryn suggested.
"You are individuals. You are small and you think in small terms," Seven replied. Her visible eye glanced away from the two Earthlings as she conferred with the Collective. "The present situation requires we consider your plan." She began typing on the console again. "Voyager's weapons inventory. Photon torpedo compliment 50 class six warheads. Explosive yields of 200 iso-tons."
"Your scans are very thorough," Harry commented.
"We are Borg," was Seven's response. Harry and Kathryn worked for some time on the weaponization project before Seven said, "We must analyze the bio-ship. Provide your data."
Kathryn handed Seven a data pad. Kathryn followed Seven to another console.
"You're human aren't you," said Kathryn.
"This body was assimilated eighteen years ago. It ceased to be human at that time," Seven replied.
"I'm curious…what was your name before," Kathryn began.
Seven interrupted, saying, "Do not engage us in further irrelevant discourse." Just then an alert sounded. "We're being hailed by your vessel."
"Commander, what is it?" Kathryn asked Chakotay when Seven activated a communications console.
"The Doctor believes Species 8472 is accessing Kes' memory," Chakotay explained.
"They know what we're planning," Harry surmised. "Luckily Kes doesn't know the specifics of the nano-probe modifications."
"We should alter course to see if we can throw them off," Kathryn suggested.
"Agreed," Seven replied. She went silent for several moments, staring off into the distance before announcing, "Our course and heading have been changed."
"Match them, and keep us apprised of any changes in Kes," Kathryn ordered.
"Chakotay out," the Commander replied.
"We now require one of your photon torpedoes and the nano-probes," Seven declared as she led the way away from the communications terminal.
"That wasn't part of the deal. Until we are safely across your territory you won't get a damn thing," Harry rebutted.
"The risk of attack has increased. We must construct and test a prototype now," Seven demanded.
"I won't take the risk of giving up the only guarantee you won't attempt to assimilate us," Kathryn assured.
"Are you willing to risk a direct confrontation with us?" Seven asked threateningly.
"I'll atomize both ships before you would even get close to our nano-probe technology," Harry assured.
Seven believed the male human. As they had worked he had proven himself quite intelligent. He would make a good addition to the Collective.
"That won't be necessary," Seven said aloud. "We must construct a launching system to accommodate our modified design."
Harry's personal computer started beeping several minutes later as the trio worked.
"We have bio-ships incoming," Harry announced just as the cube's systems began blaring a warning.
"We are under attack," Seven added as she noticed Voyager taking fire. "We cannot let the nano-probes be destroyed."
Even as Harry prepared to bring the Promethium drive online despite the proximity of the Borg cube Seven acted first. She positioned the cube in the way of the single bio-ship's line of sight on Voyager. Energy discharged out towards Kathryn from an exploding system. Her shield absorbed the energy blast. Seconds before the cube rammed into the bio-ship Harry, Seven, and Kathryn along with a handful of other drones and equipment were transported into a cargo bay onboard Voyager. Kathryn got on her com badge and notified the bridge of their presence. Chakotay and Tuvok showed up shortly after with weapons and a security team.
"Lower your weapons, Commander," Kathryn ordered. "I have agreed to allow the Borg the use of this cargo bay and to draw energy from the secondary power couplings and nothing more. We will continue to work onboard Voyager. They sacrificed their cube so we could continue our alliance."
"Circumstances have changed. The loss of our vessel requires that we modify our agreement," Seven said. "Our latest tactical projections indicate that the war will be lost by the time we leave Borg space. The nearest Borg cube is forty light-years away. You will reverse course and take us to it."
"That is a five day journey at maximum Warp in the wrong direction," Harry pointed out.
"That would be too dangerous," Chakotay added.
"Denying our request is also dangerous," Seven said in a threatening tone.
"We'll have to discuss this," Kathryn said while looking at her mate.
"Discuss quickly," Seven replied.
Kathryn, Harry, Chakotay, and Tuvok convened minutes later in Kathryn's ready room.
"Thoughts," Kathryn prompted.
"I think it's suicidal to go back into Borg territory and give them nano-probes. If we give them the nano-probes they will try to assimilate us explosive or not. The Borg feel no need to honor any agreement because the sense of honor is driven by emotion. The Borg as a species suppress all emotion in their attempts to achieve the perfect balance of biology and technology," Harry pointed out.
"I agreed," Chakotay pointed out.
"What do you suggest?" Kathryn asked.
"Tell them to have the cube rendezvous with us at the edge of their space. They either do things our way or no deal. We are honoring our original agreement. They are not. Besides, by the time they have a weapon to defeat Species 8472 there will be a lot less Borg left. It'll be a hell of a lot easier for the rest of the galaxy in that case," Harry pointed out.
"I agree with Tom," Chakotay added.
"Summon Seven of Nine here," Kathryn directed.
Several minutes later Seven showed up. Kathryn detailed the current plan.
"Unacceptable," Seven said. "We could assimilate your vessel."
"We are immune to assimilation," Harry felt safe in telling Kes.
"Impossible," Seven replied.
"I assure you it isn't," Kathryn rebutted. "Lieutenant Paris and some of my other crewmembers have found a way to make us immune to Borg assimilation."
"As we first thought this alliance has proved impossible to maintain," Seven said.
"You have only yourself to blame. It takes two to make a relationship work," Harry replied.
"Escort our guest back to the cargo bay," Kathryn ordered.
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"I'm reading power fluctuations in the deflector array," HK announced. "It looks like the Borg are trying to realign the emitters. They have bypassed security protocols. I can't stop them."
A green beam shot out from the deflector array and caused a rift to form.
"They are emitting a resonant graviton beam which is creating another singularity," B'Elanna added.
"We are being pulled in by intense gravitometric distortion," Harry informed his crewmates.
"Bridge to cargo bay two, cease your actions or we will depressurize that deck and blow you out into space. This is your only warning," Kathryn said. When the ship continued towards the singularity the redhead told Tuvok, "Do it."
"The decompression cycle is complete," Tuvok announced a short while later. "A single Borg drone has survived."
Voyager continued into the singularity.
"We are in another dimension. This entire region of spacetime is comprised of some type of fluid," Harry explained as he brought the surrounding space up on the main view screen.
Over the intercom Seven's voice said, "Captain Janeway, we have entered the domain of Species 8472. Report to the cargo bay."
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When Harry, Tuvok, and Kathryn arrived in cargo bay two it was filled with an organic mist like that in the space surrounding Voyager.
"Our entry into fluidic space has created a compression wave," Seven informed the trio. "Species 8472 knows we are here and a fleet of bio-ships is already converging on this position. They will intercept us in 3 hours and 17 minutes."
"The Borg have been here before. That is how you know about this region of spacetime," Harry surmised.
"You initiated this conflict with Species 8472. You tried to assimilate them," Kathryn added.
"Species 8472 was more resistant than we anticipated. Their biogenically engineered technology is superior to that of all other species we have previously encountered. They are the apex of biological evolution. Their assimilation would have greatly added to our own perfection," Seven explained.
"Instead of assimilating these aliens you opened the door for them to our galaxy," Tuvok pointed out.
"The only course of action left is to destroy them first," Seven replied. "My subspace link to the Collective has been weakened by the interdimensional rift. We cannot signal for help. We are alone. We must select a compliment of bio-molecular warheads and modify your warheads to launch them."
"We will engage the enemy here in their space. If they have any sense of self preservation then they will back off," Kathryn announced. "Let's get cracking people."
OP – Star Trek Voyager – OP – Star Trek Voyager – OP – Star Trek Voyager – OP
"The Borg modifications are complete," HK announced a little over an hour and a half later. "I'm bringing them online now." All over the hull of Voyager sections of new modifications glowed with a green light. "The torpedo launch tubes are active."
"The Promethium drive is fully online," Harry added, causing another surge of curiosity in Seven of Nine or as close to curiosity as she could feel.
The Voyager's crew would not tell her what the Promethium drive was. There was no mention of such a drive from the scans her cube had taken before its destruction.
"The bio-molecular warheads are ready on fifteen torpedoes," Tuvok added. "We also have one class ten armed with a high yield warhead."
"All hands, this is the captain. Ready your stations and seal all emergency bulkheads," Kathryn instructed. "Prepare to engage the enemy. Stand by for my orders."
"We are picking up four bio-ships just inside sensor range," Harry announced.
"Battle stations," Janeway ordered.
HK brought the bio-ships up on the main view screen. Kes due to her sensitivity to the alien telepathy was sitting next to the Captain.
"I can hear the aliens in my mind. They want to talk through me. They say we have contaminated their realm. To them our galaxy is impure and due to its proximity is a threat to their genetic integrity," Kes explained.
"Tell them we will use a devastating weapon on them that can destroy them at the cellular level if they do not stop their attacks on our galaxy," Kathryn instructed.
"Their response is that our galaxy will be purged," Kes replied.
The first bio-ship opened up with its energy lance. The Promethium drive absorbed the energy. Still, Voyager shuddered.
"Fire the bio-molecular warheads," Kathryn ordered.
"Direct hit on all four vessels," Tuvok announced. "There appears to be no effect."
"Give it a few seconds," Harry cautioned. "They are being destabilized on a molecular level."
"They are charging weapons," HK added.
"Good," Harry said with a grin. "That will unmake them faster."
The bio-ships exploded in a green burst of energy.
"I think that made our point. Open a singularity and get us out of this dimension," Kathryn said to Seven.
Seven approached the engineer console and pushed the Ensign working there aside. Harry monitored the commands she was inputting into the computer so that he could duplicate opening a singularity. Of course Hogwarts had already recorded the process the first time. This was for the Voyager crew's benefit.
As Voyager emerged from the singularity Harry announced, "I'm picking up dozens more bio-ships behind us."
"Kes, tell them if they persist in their aggression we will destroy them," Kathryn commanded.
"No response," Kes replied.
"The high yield warhead is ready," Tuvok informed his CO.
The lead bio-ship struck out with its energy lance.
"Take them out," Kathryn said.
"Sixteen of the bio-ships pursuing have been neutralized. The rest are retreating," Tuvok announced.
"The Collective has just informed me that all remaining bio-ships are returning to their realm," Seven added.
"We have fulfilled our end of the agreement. It's time for you to do the same," Kathryn replied.
"Unacceptable," Seven answered. "This alliance is terminated. Your ship and its crew will adapt to service us."
The Borg approached the helm control and made to use her nano-probe injection tubules to take control. Before she could touch him Harry swiftly dodged her attempt to shove him out of the way and stuck a small device to the skin of her neck. Seven of Nine dropped like a puppet with its strings cut. She screamed as her connection to the Collective was severed. With the help of the smaller collective which Starfleet had been monitoring through a Paris Array, research into the Collective had progressed in leaps and bounds. The device Harry had attached to Seven completely severed her connection to the Collective. The process could be painful for a Borg drone that had lived so long in the Collective. Seven passed out.
"Get her to sick bay," Kathryn instructed.
Harry picked up the drone despite the weight of her technology laced form and carried her to the turbo-lift. Voyager meanwhile jumped to maximum Warp with the cloak engaged at full.
OP – Star Trek Voyager – OP – Star Trek Voyager – OP – Star Trek Voyager – OP
Rev 0 Posted 11/29/2015
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