My version of Basics 2 and the sequel Basics 3 (At Home with the Stars) started when I tried to figure out how the Kazon were able to operate Voyager, how Seska was so easily able to knock out the self-destruct, why she didn't turn off the holodoc, etc. To solve some of these "problems" I created a Cardassian Plot and wrote some additional scenes for the Pilot Episode (Caretaker).
Star dates: I leave to your imagination.
These two stories were my first attempts at fanfiction. They are both in a script-like style I am a committed J/Cer, so I do include romantic developments. All the usual disclaimers apply. The characters may belong to Paramount, but what they do between episodes, during the summer, and in my rather dangerous mind are my concern. Remember, this is my alternate universe!
Voyager is space dock. She is being overhauled before setting out to the Badlands. We see several technicians doing system analysis. We watch one in particular who is rewiring something. He checks with the computer. The computer says self destruct is wired correctly. He smiles.
That night we see the same person send a coded message. We then go to a Cardassian ship. The Captain listens to it, tells his security officer to make the necessary arrangements to meet with their spy in the Maquis (Seska). They have just received the technical information on the Federation's newest ship.
In some dingy bar, Seska and her contact are meeting. They exchange information and she is told that Voyager's self destruct has been rewired to make it easily taken out. She is slipped a disk with Voyager's info on it.
At this point we start the pilot episode:
With 1 additional scene not originally shown.
BADLANDS: (Voyager has chased the Maquis ship here, it is just before they are pulled into the Delta quadrant)
Onboard the lead ship of a 5 ship Cardassian fleet.
The Captain is monitoring the chase on his screen. He watches and orders the crew to red alert and to start their attack.
WHEN (The rest of the pilot stays the same)
I used abbreviations for the characters-they're pretty obvious-but to make sure there is no confusion:
KJ: Captain Janeway
C: Commander Chakotay
T: Tuvok
K: Kes
N: Neelix
TP: Tom Paris
HK: Harry Kim
BT: B'Elanna Torres
#
#
First night: The teams are gathering back at the meadow, it is about an hour before sunset. Most are carrying something, stones, sticks, clubs, food items. Neelix is nosing around the food in the background.
C: Team leaders, reports please. Ensign Kim.
HK: We found a stream, and these berries.
K: (speaking for Neelix) We found berries and signs of animal life. And signs of humanoids.
KJ: Yes, there are humanoids. We've seen them.
T: We saw them too, but when we approached they left.
KJ: I recommend we check out the site Ensign Kim's team found. (General agreement.) Ensign, have your team lead us there. Mr. Tuvok, I want you to develop a security plan for tonight.
T: Very good, Captain.
KJ: Commander, look over what was found in way of weapons.
C: Yes, Captain.
KJ: Very good. Let's go. (The crew starts walking away. She lingers. She has tried to maintain her professionalism, this is the first we see that she is feeling the loss of the ship and their situation very deeply. Kes, Neelix, and Chakotay wait for her to catch up.)
#
#
At the camp: There is a small grove of trees, a creek and some berry bushes. Neelix has determined the berries are edible. The crew drink. Ensign Wildman notice that there is clay and start to toy with shaping a drinking vessel or something. Kim and some armed with clubs and stones start to gather fuel for a fire. They build 5 fires, surrounding the sleeping area. Tuvok is walking around with his security team assigning shifts for the watch. B'Elanna's group are determing where to locate the "privy". Neelix, Kes, and others are gathering berries using whatever they can find to carry them in or on. Carey comes in with some native grass he has found. He is attempting to make twine. Darkness comes and it is agreed there isn't much to be done in the dark. So Tuvok's teams take the watch and everybody finds a spot to sleep. Janeway, Chakotay, B'Elanna, Harry, Neelix, Kes and Tuvok are off to one side discussing what is happening tomorrow.
KJ: Chakotay, Tuvok, Kes, and myself will try to contact the natives.
C: Captain, I would like to take a small team toward the volcano.
KJ: Any particular reason? (Ever so slightly irritated and trying not to let it show)
C: Obsidian. It can be made into excellent weapons. It would be a two day trip, maybe three.
KJ: (hesitant) OK. Commander. (Their eyes meet quickly, no one notices. He for the first time realizes she may not holding up as well as she lets on). Harry and Neelix will take foraging teams out. B'Elanna will select a team to design a fortress here or someplace better.
BT: Captain, I would like Harry on my team.
KJ: OK. (Irritation would be visible on her face if there was light) We need our rest too. (The others, except Chakotay leave)
C: Everything OK Captain?
KJ: Fine. I'm just tired. (he's not leaving so she does.)
#
#
Back on Voyager:
Suder enters Sick Bay.
SUDER: Activate Emergency Medical Hologram.
DOC: Please state the...Suder?
SUDER: I see you survived.
DOC: Yes. Do you know about the rest of the crew?
SUDER: From what I've overheard, they were left on a planet. Seska is on board. I saw her.
DOC: That explains the Cardassian version of a FTC beta program the Kazon have used to access the command functions.
SUDER: Can you still access any of them?
DOC: I can get to a few. I haven't tried too hard to get in. I seem to have been forgotten and have tried to keep it that way.
SUDER: Which ones?
DOC: I can access some of the environmental controls, the holographic programs including mine, and security.
SUDER: Well there is one thing to do.
DOC: What?
SUDER: (old self coming through) Have the crew start disappearing.
DOC: But there are about 130 Kazon onboard.
SUDER: They don't know we're here.
DOC: They'll become suspicious.
SUDER: No. You'll access the security codes and have the computer place the missing Kazon somewhere on board the ship.
DOC (thinks): It might work. Give me 12 hours to work on this. (Hesitates) I suppose you will need a phaser and tricorder. (Finds the ones he stashed) I hid these, here, and a comlink. Report back here in 12 hours. Don't do anything yet.
#
#
Next morning on the planet:
Unbeknownst to Torres' group the lizard is watching. He is sluggish (still early in the am).
Neelix' team take off to forage. They have improvised containers. (A hollow log type thing)
#
#
Chakotay's group of 4 take off toward the volcano. They mark the trail with stone cairns. The volcano is about 35 miles away-over several ridges. They travel about 25 miles. And then skirt the edges of the lava field. They find hot springs, a glass mountain, where they set up camp.
Janeway's first attempt to contact the natives is not successful. She is upset and it is starting to show.
T: Captain. To our right.
KJ: I see them. Kes, can you sense anything?
K: Fear, curiosity mostly fear. (Janeway signals a stop).
KJ: Can you communicate with them in any way?
K: I've tried. (The 3 male natives about 50 meters away are watching in some shrubbery)
KJ: (Opens her arms and hands to show she is unarmed steps toward them.) Hello. My name is Captain Kathryn Janeway of the starship Voy... Hello. (The 3 disappear into the bush).
K: I sensed fear. Captain, I think they've met the Kazon.
KJ: Then I don't blame them. Well, any suggestions?
T: We shouldn't pursue them. That could be taken as a sign of aggression.
KJ: Agreed. Is there something we could tempt them with? As if we had anything. (Kes looks at her strangely)
K: A skill perhaps, music? Food? (KJ doesn't answer, she just stares where the natives had been.)
#
#
Torres' group are sketching in the dirt possible diagrams. Harry, Hogan, Carey, Wildman (the baby is asleep on a pine needle bed), Torres, and a couple of others are working on the design. The rest are out foraging. They have several possible designs sketched out and are gathered about discussing them. One of them is sitting on the side trying her hand at basket weaving.
HOGAN: I think this one should be our choice, it's small and we could build it quickly. Then work on a more permanent settlement.
HK: Do we have the time to build two. The geology department has said that this is the planet's spring. We may only have about 4 to 6 months to complete a wall and dwellings.
#
#
CAREY: They did say they would have a more accurate assessment in a couple of days. But Harry's right, we do need to build shelter too. By the look of this place, I would say summers are hot and winters quite cold. It also wouldn't be difficult to build a ditch, if we can find a shovel, by digging a channel from the stream.
BT: What about flooding, are we too close to the stream?
HK: Geology said we were high enough. They are completing a preliminary geohazard analysis. They'll be done this afternoon.
CAREY: Is there a better site?
HK: There probably is, but we can only look for so long before we have to start building.
BT: We could use some lumber and we need to think of roofing materials. Any suggestions?
CAREY: Thatch. There is a lot of straw. It's also light and wouldn't require a lot of support.
HOGAN: But it will leak. I think we would be better using rock or trying our hand at making clay shingles. Both would require a great deal of support, but would provide better protection.
WILDMAN: Are there any large caves in the area? Then all we would need to do is divide them up and put up some sort of door.
HK: We saw a number of smaller caves, we could look.
BT: There are some hills a few kilometers that way. (she points) I like the idea of cave.
CAREY: Lieutenant, I would like to suggest that we spend no more than 3, 5 days looking for a site. At the end of that time, we pick the best one and start building.
BT: I agree. (so do the rest) We will split into 2 teams. Under no circumstances will these teams split up further. We're looking for a site where we can build a settlement for 150 people, with room to grow. It needs to be defensible and (small earthquake) and geologically safe. It should be near water and have adequate drainage. Harry take your team that way, I'll take mine toward the hills. We'll meet back here in about 5 hours. (Somebody must have a watch) Good luck and be careful.
#
#
The two engineering teams have reunited and are discussing what they found.
HK: Over there it is pretty barren. It reminds me of parts of eastern California on earth. A lot of low shrubbery, a few trees and a lot of rodent like animals.
BT: There are caves in the hills. We did find a group of 5 caves that might work. (The other groups start to come in. They are bringing food, weapons etc.) Ask the other groups what they found.
#
#
Janeway has withdrawn from the group (she is sitting alone on the sidelines.)
N: (worried) Captain, did you eat enough?
KJ: (distracted) Yes.
N: Are you feeling all right?
KJ: I'm fine.
N: My berry surprise was very good. You hardly ate any.
KJ: Neelix I am fine. (she is short tempered and for the first time she comes closes to losing control). I'll be fine.
N: If you say so. Night Captain. (He is concerned)
#
#
Chakotay has 1st watch, the other watch is about 6 ft away. We can see the glow of the lava. By the fire, the other 2 are sleeping. They have positioned their camp in such a way, that their backs are protected. Neither are watching the fire, but are looking out into the night. Chakotay is worried about something.
#
#
Engineering teams: Are exploring the caves. They have created a stick torch to explore the larger ones. They are leaving the second cave.
WILDMAN (carrying her child in an improvised and rather awkward reed carrier on her back): We won't have much privacy.
HK: This cave doesn't appear to continue beyond the backwall, neither did the first. (They enter the 3rd, Carey and Hogan are carrying the torches) This is decididly larger than the other 2.
BT: I don't know if the torches will last to explore the back. I don't want to move in until I know what's back there. Any ideas for improved lighting?
WILDMAN: Not unless we can press oil from one of the plants.
BT: I'll ask the Biology Department to work on that. To use this cave, we will definitely need better light. (The reach the back, there is one small entrance to the back part of the cave. They look at it. Harry sticks the torch and then his head in)
HK: Wow. This continues on for some distance. We can always pile stones in front of it though. Though the next chamber looks like it could comfortably house most of the crew. (He pulls his head out and others look.)
BT: (As they leave the cave) The stream is over there. We can build a fortress wall here and we may be able to dig a well. And when we explore Harry's cave we'll probably find water in there too. (There is general agreement that this will be their site) We'll bring the geology people out tomorrow.
#
#
K: Captain, on that hill behind us. (They turn around, no one is there) There was someone there. (They start walking that way.) I think they are following us.
T: I too have been aware of their presence for a few minutes now.
KJ: We have tried, unsuccessfully, to contact them. Maybe we should let them contact us. They must be aware that we pose no danger and that we are not Kazon.
T: I would recommend the top of the hill, There is some shade, and we can see them coming. (They head that way).
#
#
They are spread out along the creek. B'Elanna and Harry are looking at some bones and tracks. It is mid afternoon.
HK: It's big, whatever it is.
BT: And carnivorous.
From further down the creek comes a scream and roar. Everybody rushes down. One of the crew is bleeding from his leg. Ensign Hogan is applying direct pressure.
BT: What happened?
HOGAN: This large lizard sprang at George. It grabbed his leg. I walloped it. It ran off that away.
HK: Well, we know it's not friendly. (sudden thought) George, how do you feel. (He is examining the wound).
GEORGE: Like an idiot, letting it get me so easily.
HK: You don't feel dizzy, extreme pain or anything?
GEORGE: No.
BT: Here's its trail. How big was it (She is gathering facts)
HOGAN: About 3 meters.
BT. What do we have for weapons?
HK: Sticks and stones. Dinner?
BT: If we can. We'll need spears. Bring that branch here. (She takes it to a rock and starts rubbing the end to make it sharp. The others start to follow. Harry finishes cleaning the wound. He then uses mud as a bandaide) I'll take four, Harry you stay here. Continue exploring the area. (She picks her four, they take off, each carrying a sharpened stick.) (The other's carry George back up the hill.)
#
#
SUDER: (More of his old self showing through) Well Doc.
DOC: I did it. The computer will create a randomly picked spot to put missing crew. How are you going to hide them.
SUDER: (Grinning) I'm going to take the bodies to engineering. (He leaves and the Doc frowns.)
Suder crawls among the Jeffrey tubes checking the tricorder every so often. He grins. Quietly opens a covering, fires his phaser. Checks the tricorder again, climbs out of the tube and we see a Kazon body being stuffed in. He drags it to engineering, where he will disintegrate the body.
#
#
Janeway's group is sitting on the hill. They become aware of a commotion in the distance. Tuvok looks that way, shields his eyes from the glare of the sun. (Almost sunset)
T: It's Lieutenant Torres. They seem to have caught something large. (Kes stands up and waves her hands. From the distance there is an answering wave. Torres' group come their way. They climb up the hill, very proud of their catch. Janeway looks at the lizard)
KJ: Lieutenant, good job. Is it edible?
BT: I hope so. It tried to eat one of us. (Sees KJ's worried look) Ensign George was bitten, but not badly. No luck in contacting the natives?
K: None. They're out there, watching.
BT: Captain, could you use the lizard to open a dialogue.
KJ: We could use the food ourselves. But...
K: (Tapping the Captain's elbow) Shhh. Someone is coming. (Several of the natives appear, one is the leader. They look at the lizard and at the crew. They converse among themselves-(since no one understands the gist is that they are impressed))
What follows are a combination of the various languages each group speaks and sign language. The natives seem to understand that the Voyager crew is stranded and could use some help. The natives offer to take them (and the rest of the crew) to their village and prepare the lizard for a massive feast.
#
#
They are working on the location of a perimeter wall. Torres and a couple of natives enter.
BT: (She is pleased with their progress) Harry, gather up your group. We've been invited to dinner. The natives here are going to cook Ensign George's lizard. (One of the natives looks at the ensign's wound. It looks OK. Wildman's baby also causes a sensation). As they are gathering their stuff, what there is, Chakotay's group enters. The natives are very impressed with the obsidian.
BT: Welcome back Chakotay.
C: What's going on?
BT: We're determining if these caves will provide us shelter, and we're going to the native village for dinner.
#
#
That evening: the crew are feasting with the natives it is evening, KJ has wandered off away from the groups. She is staring over the walls surrounding the native village. Kes and Neelix notice. Chakotay also is watching her. He is about 3 meters from Kes and Neelix, but they are standing in such away that Neelix is not aware of him.
N: I'm worried about the Captain. I've tried to cheer her up. She doesn't talk to me, or for that matter anybody else.
K: She is grieving. She feels responsible for all this and it's eating her up. (Notices Chakotay, continues speaking a little louder for his benefit). What she needs is someone who is a good friend to talk to her.
N: I thought she considered me a good friend, but she ....
K: I mean someone who is more than a friend. Or should be. (Very pointedly at Chakotay. Neelix hasn't realized this conversation is not for him alone)
N: (Puzzled) But Mark is in the alpha-quadrant.
K: (now very quietly) Have you really not noticed? I'm not talking about Mark. (Again in her louder volume) Someone who would understand what it is like for a Captain to lose a ship...
N: (catching on and now aware of C's presence) Chakotay? I had noticed they were more formal after they returned from New Earth, but I hadn't thought that...
K: (smiles) Come, be a morale officer, cheer me up. (He would rather stay and watch, but she walks him off)
Chakotay walks to where Kathryn is standing. He awkwardly touches her shoulder. She tenses but doesn't move away.
C: Kathryn. (She turns. He pulls her toward him and she quietly cries on his shoulder. He puts his arms around her. There is a long silence. She stops and steps back.)
C: Talk to me. If there is anybody in this crowd that knows what you are going through it is me.
KJ: (Despite her mood, she half smiles, then the mood takes over) This is my fault.
C: Is it? You said the decision was mine.
KJ: It feels like everybody is just being polite to cover their real thoughts.
C: They know we all did the best we could.
KJ: And this? (spreads her hands to indicate the planet)
C: We're alive.
KJ: And getting home?
C: (He sits down next to the wall and indicates she should sit beside him. She does) We don't know if Paris made it. Doc is still on board, he might be able to do something. And no one remembers Suder making it to the planet. (Runs out of things to say so they sit there. She falls asleep, her head on his shoulder. He smiles and touches her face.)
C: Night Kathryn.
#
#
Cullah is waiting impatiently for someone. Seska is not there.
CULLAH: (to the intercom) Dekra where are you? (no answer) Computer where is Dekra.
COMPUTER: (slight delay) Dekra is on deck 23.
CULLAH: What is he doing there. (To his security officer) Get someone to drag Dekra here. I have been waiting for 20 minutes. (The security officer snaps to attention and assigns someone)
Cullah fumbles with a few buttons, causing things to blink or turn off or on. None of his crew notice. (Don't we all wish we had that kind of power.)
SECURITY OFFICER: Maj. Dekra is not on Deck 23, he is now on 14.
CULLAH: What is that fool doing. I don't want to see him here anymore. Put out a security alert and arrest him.
SECURITY OFFICER: Yes Maj.
SESKA'S VOICE: My most esteemed Maj, I need to speak with you.
CULLAH: That woman. (To intercom) Yes Seska.
VOICE: In private.
CULLAH: Where? (very frustrated)
VOICE: In your ready room.
#
#
In the ready room Seska is sitting. Cullah enters. He is furious.
CULLAH: I do not want you summoning me. I will summon you.
SESKA: Yes my most esteemed Maj. But this is important. I asked Terlead to bring the engineering report to me. (Cullah is obviously furious at this). He never showed up and no one can find him.
CULLAH: Dekra is also playing games. I have just ordered his arrest. I will also order Terlead's. I have just uncovered a possible coup. (He leaves, leaving Seska sitting there wondering what is going on).
CULLAH: Order the arrest of Terlead too. And I want a complete investigation. There is apparently a traitorous group who wish to take over my ship.
SECURITY OFFICER: Yes, Maj. (He leaves)
#
#
Planet, next morning just at sunrise. KJ and C are asleep sitting against the wall. Kathryn wakes up. She realizes where she is (in Chakotay's arms) and smiles.
KJ: Wake-up. (He does slowly and grins at her.)
C: Sleep well?
KJ: (reluctant to admit it) Yes. And you?
C: The ground was a little hard, but otherwise yes. (Not letting her move away)
KJ: I wonder if anyone missed us?
C: Probably. I can smell breakfast. Hungry?
KJ: For strawberries, cream and coffee.
C: I don't think so.
KJ: Too bad. (She is still in his arms. She blushes and turns away)
Chakotay pulls her back, his thoughts are not on breakfast. There are voices as the crew start to wake up and come outside. She stands up and brushes herself off. She is very aware of their feelings for each other, but has tried hard to ignore it. It is becoming more and more difficult, and Chakotay is not helping. She walks off toward the fire. Chakotay sits for a few seconds more (smiling) and then takes off in the other direction.
#
#
At the fire, Harry, Neelix and many others are gathered
N: Morning Captain, and a fine morning it is.
KJ: Yes it is.
Neelix is delighted that she sounds better than she has recently.
N: (unsuspecting) Sleep well?
KJ: Uh. Fine. (Very uncomfortable)
HK: Good morning Captain. .
KJ: Ensign.
HK: Neelix what is for breakfast?
N: Leftover lizard.
HK: I'm going to recommend we never kill another one.
N: Good morning Commander, Lieutenant. Some Tea? (Offers cups to B'Elanna and Chakotay. Other crew members are eating or serving themselves from one of the 3 pots of stew. The stew is served on this dreadful bread like thing.)
BT: Morning Captain. Harry. Captain we would like to discuss the plans for the settlement with you.
KJ: (She is avoiding looking at Chakotay and he her) Yes, I'd like to meet with senior staff and go over details. Later this morning.
BT: Yes, Captain.
#
#
The shuttlecraft which is badly damaged. Paris is pretty banged up too and dirty.
P: (Console starts to blink) Damn. (He grabs the tool kit, which is open beside him-he has obviously used it often). Navigational array is down again. (He starts poking and prodding. Something beeps. He looks at screen-blank) Double Damn. Come on computer what kind of ship is it. (No answer. He pokes and tightens things some more. He looks at the screen-there are several large ships approaching.) Things are looking up. Talaxian. I hope. Talaxian vessel this is Lieutenant Paris of the Starship Voyager. Come in please.
VOICE: This is Captain Roylux of the Talaxi (Message is hard to understand) May we be of assistance?
TP: Yes. Can you bring my shuttle aboard.
VOICE: Yes. Permission granted to come aboard.
#
#
ROYLUX: Welcome aboard Lieutenant.
TP: Thank you sir.
ROYLUX: We recently learned Voyager was captured by the Kazon. We were sent to find survivors and gather information.
TP: Do you know about the crew?
ROYLUX: (Sadly) No. You apparently are the only one who escaped. We would like your help. But first, you should see a doctor.
TP: (stunned): Yes sir.
#
#
Cullah is pacing and Seska is feeding the child.
CULLAH: Seventeen of the crew have disappeared. No one has seen them.
SESKA: Maj, if you would let me...
CULLAH: You are a woman, you are not to help. In fact, I will send you away tomorrow. You have embarrassed me in front of my crew. You behave most inappropriately. (He walks out)
Seska is stunned and shaken. She has always had power, she likes it. But she also knows Cullah will not be able to run the ship without her.
SESKA: (to the door and icy calm) Go ahead. But you'll regret it. Do you think I told you everything about running this ship. (She goes to the computer).
SESKA: Computer is the emergency medical holograph still active.
COMPUTER: Yes he is.
SESKA: Has he accessed anything yet.
COMPUTER: The security codes.
SESKA (smiling): Ah. Computer allow the doctor complete access to all command functions tomorrow at 1300 hours. Authorization Seska Chi five epsilon.
COMPUTER: Access to be granted tomorrow at 1300 hours.
SESKA: Computer send my message to the doctor at 1330 telling him he has complete control of the ship. And computer at 1300 hours delete the Kazon command codes. Cullah will not be able to access any ship functions. Send him my message at 1302. Authorization Seska Chi five epsilon.
COMPUTER: Access to be denied to the Kazon tomorrow at 1300 hours.
SESKA: (Even icier) If he changes his mind, I can too.
#
#
Janeway is walking through rows of river spinach. It is about 3ft tall. A fast growing leaf crop. It will be ready to harvest soon. Neelix, Tuvok and the native leader are with her.
T: Captain, the crop looks good. It is apparently nutritious and the crew seems to think it tastes good.
KJ: Yes, it does.
There use sign language and Neelix' attempt at the language barrier. They are talking about food I think.
#
#
ROYLUX: (To Paris) We have reports of Voyager. She is 10 days from here. There are no Kazon ships in the sector. Cullah is confident. My spies say that woman is still with him.
TP: (Bitterly) Seska? I thought Cullah had her killed.
R: Apparently she was bait for their trap. She can not be happy with the Kazon. They treat their women as slaves.
TP: Serves her right.
ROYLUX: And she says her child was fathered by your commander. (Paris nods). She will not last long.
TP: (After a pause) Captain Roylux. I don't believe Seska would let Cullah kill all the crew. Is there a planet that would support life in this sector?
R: You think they were marooned. Yes. (He signals a crewmember to search) We'll find out.
CREW: Sir, there are 3 planets that would support life in this sector.
TP: Which is the worst?
CREW: Hannon 4 It supports life, but is very volcanic.
R: You're probably right. Cullah would strand the crew on planet they would be unlikely to survive. (Looks at his terminal.) Of the three, Hannon 4 is also the furthest away. (To Paris) See if we can rescue the crew or go after Voyager?
TP: (thinks) Rescue the crew sir. If they are alive, recapturing Voyager should be our goal. (Pause) If they aren't... If they aren't destroying Voyager...
R: (to crew) Set our course for Hannon 4 and notify the convoy of the change.
CREW: We should arrive in 15 hours.
R: Try hailing them.
CREW: No response. Trying alternate frequencies. Still no response.
R: Try every hour. Report if you get a response.
#
#
are Seska, the child, 2 guards.
She is smiling.
SESKA: (to her child) Cullah will be sorry he sent me away. My little one. (sings a Cardassian lullaby as she pulls out her phaser)
#
#
SECURITY OFFICER: Maj. We have lost touch with the shuttle.
CULLAH: (calmly) What happened.
SECURITY OFFICER: I cannot tell, it just disappeared off our screen.
CULLAH: Set a course to the last known location.
#
#
B'Elanna and Harry are showing Janeway and others around the caves. They have made some improvements in the torches (with the help of the natives of course). They are in the large cave.
HK: There is water in the 2nd chamber, but until we have a better light source we won't be able to explore it. We will temporarily seal this entrance. Between the five caves we can house the entire crew and some. Privacy will be limited.
BT: At least in the beginning. We figure we can partition the caves during the winter. Hogan and Carey are designing doors and we will be building an outer wall. Ensign Wildman is also going to build a kiln. She says the stream bank has some good clay.
KJ: Very good. We'll move in this evening. (She and the others leave)
HK: You didn't tell them everything.
BT: No place is perfect. The reality of our situation is starting to sink in. No point in mentioning every problem. Like earthquakes. I was looking at the houses in the village. They seem to survive. (Thanks to California building codes)
HK: Neelix tried asking about how they build them, but I think we ended up talking about the weather. Did anybody ask where the nearest forest is?
BT: The nearest forest is a 2 day journey, I think. I never realized how much we rely on the universal translators.
#
#
S/O: Maj, there is no sign of the shuttle, We do find debris.
CULLAH: Is it consistent with an explosion?
S/O: The pieces are small and I don't detect enough to account for the shuttle's mass. (Always tell the Maj what he wants to here) But if it was a powerful enough explosion, we would never find all the pieces.
CULLAH: Good. Set a course for the Ogalla, it is time to display our new power. (It is 1300).
PILOT: Maj, the helm does not respond.
CULLAH: (Angrily) Set the course.
S/O: Sir, there is a message.
(It is from Seska, filmed in the Captain's ready room)
SESKA (on screen): Cullah, you have probably just found out the ship no longer accepts your commands. You didn't think I would tell you everything. Or did you? I've never met a more foolish man than yourself. (Cullah is fuming) I have removed your access to the ship's commands functions. Voyager will no longer respond to your commands.
CULLAH: (Speaking over the last part) Shut that thing off.
S/O: (Speaking over Seska's speech) I cannot.
Seska (continuing): I don't know if you are planning to kill me and your child. Yes, he is yours. But don't count on being successful at that either. Goodbye Cullah.
CULLAH: Is there anyway to override her treachery?
S/O: (He has been trying.) She has betrayed you, Maj.
CULLAH: Override the codes and let me know when you do.
(He goes to the ready room)
SUDER is waiting there. (Sarcastically): Hello Maj, Seska and I were old friends. She left me a message to give to you. (He shoots Cullah, but before he can drag the body into the jeffrey tube, the security officer enters. Suder hides in the tube and is not detected. The command structure is in shambles. The Security Officer orders the ship abandoned. Panic spreads among the Kazon after Cullah's death and the ship stops working for them. Some scavenge, others destroy and all head to the ships. (Several smaller Kazon ships are in the shuttle bays. The voyager shuttles won't respond.)
#
#
1330 hours in the sick bay:
Doc is reactivated.
DOC: I didn't request to be reactivated.
SESKA'S VOICE: Hello Doc.
DOC: (Looks around, realizes it is coming from the screen). Seska?
VOICE: I have given you complete access to Voyager's command functions. Good-bye Doc. Be seeing you.
DOC: (puzzled) Transfer bridge control to sick bay authorization Emergency Medical Hologram 4 5 pi 5.
COMPUTER: Transfer complete.
DOC: (Looking at the screen.) Computer, locate all Kazon personnel .
COMPUTER: The Kazon are in shuttle bays 1, 5, 7 and 8. They are abandoning ship.
DOC: Allow them to leave in their ships. Let me know when the last one leaves. And contact Suder.
SUDER'S VOICE: Doc, what's going on?
DOC: The Kazon are abandoning ship. And I have complete access to the command functions.
VOICE: They're leaving? Cullah isn't. Seska asked me to kill him. And the rest.
DOC: Mr. Suder, report to Sick Bay at once. (no response) Mr. Suder, report to Sick Bay at once. Computer, locate Suder.
COMPUTER: He is entering shuttle bay 5.
#
#
Suder is firing his weapon wildly at the last of the Kazon, they fire back and he falls. He is beamed out and the last ship leaves.
#
#
COMPUTER: The last Kazon ship has left. There are no Kazon on board Voyager. The ship has suffered extensive damage, but all systems are functional.
DOC: Where are the Voyager crew located.
COMPUTER: The crew is located on Hannon 4.
DOC: Set a course for Hannon 4 at warp 8. Time to arrival?
COMPUTER: 6 days and 5.5 hours.
DOC: (Looks at Suder) Why? (Suder has died) Computer, divert all power from life support to shields and engines.
#
#
S/O: Sir, we have just entered the Hannon system. The planet is the 4th from the sun.
ROYLUX: Standard orbit. Scan the planet for human life signs.
S/O: They're there. Located at coordinates Delta three, seven, one.
R: Notify Lieutenant Paris to meet me at his shuttle in 10 minutes. Have a 3 member security team and a doctor join us.
S/O: Very good sir.
#
#
Chakotay and Kathryn are standing on a small hill near the caves.
C: Next, I suppose you'll want a bathtub. (She giggles) It's good to hear you laugh again. (There is sonic boom)
KJ: That wasn't the volcano. We have visitors.
They run back to the settlement, where the warning is being given. The crew are returning from the surrounding area.
KJ: Can you see it?
N: It's over there, I see a small craft.
HK: It looks like a shuttle.
The shuttle approaches quickly and lands just outside the settlement. It is the Voyager shuttle, but the crew is careful.
Paris exits the shuttle: Hello!
At which point the crew mob him.
Captain Roylux enters the fray and is introduced. Paris looks for Captain Janeway. Finding her, he escorts Roylux over and introduces them.
R: It would be a privilege to assist you in recapturing your ship.
KJ: Thank-you. I'd like to have some of my crew come, so that we may bring the ship back here.
C: Captain, may I speak to you. Alone.
They walk off.
C: You should stay here, I'll go.
KJ: It is my ship, I lost her, I will go.
C: Star Fleet protocal states that the first officer's duty is keep the Captain safe. (She is not wavered by his arguement)
KJ: No. You are in command here until we return. Keep building. (She smiles and starts to say something else, but doesn't) See you in a few days.
C: Good luck.
KJ: (They return to the crew) Tom, Harry, B'Elanna, Hogan, Tuvok, please join me. (The crew watches them board the shuttle and take off. They are very excited.)
#
#
S/O: Sir Voyager has just entered our scanning area.
ROYLUX: Go to red alert and ask Captain Janeway to join me on the bridge.
S/O: Sir, the ship is traveling toward the Hannon system. I have done a preliminary scan and detect no life signs.
R: Take us on an intercept course and hail them. (To KJ who has just entered) Captain, we are approaching your ship.
KJ: Very good, captain.
S/O: They are responding to our hail.
R: Onscreen.
DOC: This is the commanding officer of the starship Voyager. Captain Janeway it is good to see you again.
KJ: Doc, what is going on.
DOC: I'd explain it to you, but it is a long story. I assume you will want to beam over. I'll have to reactivate the life support systems.
R: Stand down from Red alert. Who is that?
KJ: That's the ship's doctor, he's a hologram.
R: I would like to hear his story.
KJ: So would I.
#
#
KJ: Reports.
BT: We need to do some massive repairs to all decks especially eight through fifteen. There is a lot damage that was apparently caused by the Kazon when they left. And some exterior work. One impulse engine is in need of repair, but is functional. They must have shot the place up when leaving. (She points to several phaser burns)
T: Weapons are functional on auxillary power.
HK: Navigation is functioning. As is life support. The viewscreen is offline.
TP: Captain, The Talaxi is hailing us. (audio only)
R: Captain, Do you wish for us to escort you back.
KJ: Yes Captain Roylux we would appreciate it. Any sign of the Kazon.
R: None.
KJ: Good. Tom, set a course to Hannon 4 at warp 8.
TP: Yes, ma'm.
#
#
The crew is hyper and nervous. It has been hard for them to keep working. Chakotay is helping lay stones.
WILDMAN: Commander, Voyager has arrived.
C: (Very relieved) Very well. Are they landing?
WILDMAN: Yes sir. (Everybody stops to watch the ship land).
The ship lands and the crew gather around. The ship shows major signs of wear and battle. It takes a few minutes, but those on board disembark. Paris is greeted warmly as are the others. KJ looks for Chakotay. He finds her. Smiling they stare at each other.
C: It's good to see you Kathryn. Captain.
KJ: (Trying to keep the conversation away from what is uppermost in both their minds) You too.
C: The ship looks terrible.
KJ: I know. We'll need to stay here to do most of the repairs.
C: (after a pause) Seska?
KJ: According to the computer, Cullah had her killed along with the child. I'm sorry.
C: Ironic though.
KJ: She must have known, because she transfered control to Doc before she died. The Kazon had to abandon ship. Cullah is apparently dead too. They made a mess. (They move toward each other)
N: (always managing to interrupt at the wrong moment) Captain, I think a celebration is in order. Harry tells me Voyager's replicators are working.
KJ: As long as you serve strawberries, cream, and coffee go ahead. Commander. (The mood is broken) Find the senior staff. I'd like to have a meeting in 30 minutes. Over there. (She points to a shady spot)The ship interiors need work.
C: I'll see to it. (He winks at her and she smiles.)
#
#
N: (To Kes) Sweetie, have you seen the Captain?
K: I think she is aboard Voyager.
N: She wanted some strawberries. (He has a large bowl in his hands).
K: (sees Chakotay) I'll take them to her. (She takes the bowl, Neelix goes back to the food. Kes approaches the Commander)
K: Commander, have you seen Captain Janeway?
C: No. Why?
K: I have a bowl of strawberries for her. I think she might be on the ship. Would you mind taking them to her? (hands the bowl to him, and before he can answer walks off)
Chakotay smiles, she was very obvious.
#
#
Outside her door. He is a little hesitant to ring but does, the door opens.
C: I was sent to bring you these. (he hands a rather flustered Janeway (who is in uniform) the bowl.) Why aren't you at the party?
KJ: I was for a short while. Things usually become more relaxed at these shindigs after the Captain leaves. Why aren't you?
C: Kes asked me to bring you your strawberries.
KJ: That was sweet of her, but I already had...
C: (smiling as he eats one of the berries.) Would you like some berries anyway?
KJ: Without cream? (He eats another one) Commander, relinquish those berries.
C: And if I don't. (He eats another)
KJ: (laughs) I don't think there is a suitable punishment for eating my strawberries.
C: Then shall we share them?
KJ: (Taking one) Excellent suggestion, Commander.
C: Why thank-you Captain. (They sit down. As they sit there eating, the mood shifts from playfulness to a more romantic one. As they finish, she especially is very uncomfortable)
KJ: (very quietly) You'd better be leaving. Good night. (There is a longing in her voice.)
C (catches her tone): Good night Kathryn.
#
#
This story starts the day after my Basics 2 finished. Voyager is a mess and in dire need of repairs. The senior staff are gathered under a tree
BT: The ship sustained major damage in the initial battle, the Kazon fixed some of it. Most of those repairs will need to be repaired again. They also caused considerable damage when they were forced to evacuate. Time estimate for the exterior work 2-3 weeks. Since we will need to remain here for that time, I also recommend we do a complete exterior overhaul. That would only add another week.
T: The computer is apparently undamaged, but I will have a complete level 1 diagnostic run by 1600 tomorrow.
HK: The interior work will be extensive. Estimate there is a couple of months. We can have the bridge and engineering done in a couple of weeks. The warp coils are fine but one impulse engine needs repair. If we are going to do an external overhaul, I recommend we do the engines too.
T: This would be a good time. The Kazon don't know we have recovered Voyager.
TP: We can use the shuttlecraft to get around and to scan for minerals and food. And for security.
KJ: Agreed. We'll do the exterior repairs and overhaul, as well as the engines. B'Elanna you're in charge. Assign most of the crew to these areas. Harry start work on repairing the bridge. Mr. Tuvok, Tom, I want you to coordinate the shuttle for security and foraging. Commander, I want you to work on finding out how Seska was able to access the command functions. The replicators will be used for ship repairs and essential supplies. Anything else. (no) Dismissed.
#
#
Later, on board, Janeway and Chakotay are inspecting the damage. They're in the dining hall It is badly damaged, tables and chairs are broken, dishes are everywhere.
C: (Stepping over some broken chairs to examine the equipment): The stove seems fine. So does the replicator. But a lot of the utensils have been damaged. (He picks up a smashed plate and tosses it to her. She catches it and puts it down.) What a mess. They must not have liked the food. (She gives him a "that's not funny" look. They leave and walk down the hall).
KJ: The crew can spend part of the time cleaning their quarters. We'll need to get the bridge, engineering, and halls cleaned and repaired before we leave. (They arrive at a turbo lift and enter) Bridge. (It starts, KJ and C are quiet and avoid looking at each other. The lift jerks a couple of times, then stops. Janeway taps her comm-badge) Janeway to bridge.
KIM'S VOICE: Bridge.
KJ: The turbo lift is stuck. (lights dim)
HK: There's a short in the system. We've had several so far this morning. You might as well get comfortable. The last one took 13 minutes to find.
She shrugs her shoulders. Now the situation is very uncomfortable for both. There is a long pause.
HK: Bridge to Captain. I found the short. (Lift starts up again. )
C: (smiles at her) Thanks Harry. (They step off the lift. The bridge is a mess. Several of the consoles are being rewired. Harry is on his knees looking under one.)
HK: Another one. (He pulls out a mass of fused circuitry. Notices Captain) Good morning Captain, Commander. Welcome to what wire is this.
KJ: Surely not.
HK: Sorry Captain. This is the fifth phaser blast I've repaired in the past hour.
C: And you flew the ship here?
KJ: At least some systems are redundant. Has anyone found out why the self destruct was not?
HK: I glanced at the repair logs. It will take some time, but it looks like it probably occurred before coming to the Delta Quadrant. (The screen flickers) Ah ha. (Slides out from under the console and looks at a schematic). Captain, would you hand me the box behind you. That one, thanks. (she hands him the box and he pulls out something and goes back under the console.)
KJ: You seem to have everything under control. Good job Harry.
#
#
BT: (To KJ and C) Good morning.
KJ: I'm impressed. You were quick in coming up with a substitute for a space dock.
BT: It's not as good, but then we Maquis are good at improvising.
C: She's done this before.
BT: No fair, giving away the secrets of my success.
#
#
They have cleared an area for 3 shuttlecraft,which have been unloaded, Tom and his team are inspecting them. Chakotay arrives alone.
TP: Good morning Commander.
C: Tom. Any problems?
TP: With the shuttle, no sir. We will be leaving within the hour. (Watches Chakotay as he examines the closest shuttle) Care to come along, sir?
C: I have reports to read and write. (Yes he would) And after the computer diagnostic is done, I'm working with Tuvok to analyze how Seska was able to access the command functions.
TP: Is that a no? Too bad, sir.
#
#
Staff meeting under the same tree. It's been a day and a half.
Tom and Harry are sitting on some rocks, KJ is standing, as are Neelix, Kes, and Chakotay enter followed a few seconds later by Tuvok and Torres.
KJ: Good morning. Progress reports.
T: Computer diagnostic was clean. Commander Chakotay and I have started the level 1 ship diagnostic. That should be completed in 3 days.
HK: We will have the bridge rewired this afternoon. Then we will start the engine repairs and overhaul.
BT: Exterior work is progressing on schedule.
TP: One shuttle will survey the rest of the system. Neelix and Kes will be joining our foraging teams today.
KJ: Anything else? Dismissed.
#
#
That evening in Harry's cabin. He has cleaned it and started to repaint it. He is working on his computer. The door bell sounds, it's Tom.
TP: The Kazon sure are messy. Kes' gardens are a disaster.
HK: I'd hate to think of what the ship would have been like, if they had been on it longer. I don't think they understand sanitation either. Question, how much debris should there be after a Kazon shuttle explodes.
TP: A lot. Why?
HK: I was going over the computer logs from when the Kazon were in control. Look at this.
TP: (Looking at Harry's computer screen) Let me guess, Seska was on that shuttle. (Harry nods as Paris taps his comm-badge) Paris to Tuvok.
TUVOK'S VOICE: Tuvok here.
TP: Meet us on the bridge. We may have a problem.
HK (as they leave): Shouldn't we notify the Captain and Commander?
TP: Not now.
#
#
On the bridge. It is empty, Tom and Harry enter from the lift, Tuvok enters from the ready room.
T: What's the problem.
HK (punching some buttons on his console) Lieutenant, this is the data from a Kazon shuttle explosion.
T: (Looking at the data, punches a few other keys) How great a scanning range do we have?
HK: The ship's scanners will need to be recalibrated to work in this atmosphere.
TP: We have one shuttle on patrol. We've detected no other ships in the immediate area.
T: Mr. Paris, I want all three shuttle in the air within 15 minutes. Have Neelix get his ship out too. (He taps some keys) Position the ships along these vectors. I want a complete scan done within the hour. And 2 shuttlecraft will be on security patrols until we leave. Have you notified the captain? (Tom is out the door)
HK: No sir.
T: Tuvok to Captain Janeway.
KJ: Janeway here.
T: Captain, we may have a problem. Please come to the bridge.
J: On my way.
T: Tuvok to Commander Chakotay.
C: Chakotay here.
T: Commander, please come to the bridge.
C: What's up?
T: It looks like Seska may have survived the explosion.
#
#
Harry, Tuvok, Janeway and Chakotay are gathered around the Harry's terminal.
C: Cullah was certainly a fool. Are the shuttles in place yet?
T: They arrived in position 3 minutes ago. The preliminary scan shows nothing. Ensign have you recalibrated the ship's sensors yet.
HK: Not yet. I'm going to need someone down in engineering to help.
KJ: Janeway to Torres. Please report to the bridge.
BT: On my way Captain.
KJ: Would she come here?
C: Nothing she would do would surprise me. I can't imagine the Kazon wanting her. She would have nowhere else to go.
KJ: (to Torres who has just entered) B'Elanna how much of the repairs and overhaul can we skip and still be able to fly.
BT: I wouldn't want to fly far. But I could have the ship ready midmorning. The Kazon found us?
C: Worse, we believe Seska's shuttle didn't explode.
BT: And to regain their favor, she's bringing the Kazon to recapture Voyager.
C: She may also try to rejoin the crew.
BT (looking at the terminal): No sign of her. Are we going to recalibrate the ship's scanners. We'll need to boost power. I'll go to engineering. (She leaves)
KJ: Tuvok, let me know when the scan is complete. We'll be in the ready room.
T: Yes, captain.
KJ: (to Chakotay as they enter the ready room) We're in no shape for another battle. And B'Elanna is correct, I don't want to fly this ship anywhere. Options.
C: I would re-examine the accident site. And see if we can pick up her trail. She is good, it won't be easy.
KJ: The crew won't want her back. And I don't want her on the ship. She knows to much about this ship.
C: I've wondered about that. Do we want to pursue her?
KJ: (grimaces, not really) The child?
C: You saw the computer logs. I may not be the father. If we take the child, she will definitely find some way to come after us. Neelix says we are close to the Kazon border. If the Kazon won't take her back, she just needs to cross the border and find a new ally.
KJ: I would like to know if she is alive and what her plans are. But we don't have time or the equipment to pursue her.
C: And repairs?
KJ: I'd like to wait for the scan results, but be prepared to move. We need to find somewhere to move to.
C: Tom said there were 2 other M class planets in this sector.
KJ: What data do we have on them?
C: Just what we got from the Talaxians.
KJ: That wasn't much. Both were uninhabited. And close to Kazon traffic. And what is the status on the transporters?
C: Power has been diverted from the transporters to run the equipment for the exterior work.
KJ: Have Transporter room 1 completely functional. (The ready room door bell) Enter.
T: Captain, the ship's sensors are on line. A preliminary survey shows only the Talaxian convoy.
C: Very good.
#
#
The hour has passed.
TP VOICE: Paris to Voyager.
KJ: Voyager here.
TP: Captain, we find no signs of a ship of any kind, besides the Talaxian convoy. I'm repositioning the fleet and we will do a second scan.
KJ: Carry on, Tom.
C: Staying?
KJ: For the moment. But we'll have to modify the plans for the engine overhauls. We can fly with the hull in bad shape. At least for a short distance. But we can't have the engines offline.
#
#
KJ is the ready room alone. Tom enters.
TP: Captain, you wanted to see me?
KJ: Yes, I want you to take a shuttle to the site of the accident and see what you can find out. Take a team with you.
TP: Yes ma'm. (As he leaves, Chakotay enters. Tom smiles)
C: Captain, I think we found something interesting.
KJ: Yes, commander.
C: On a hunch, I looked at the data files from when Voyager entered the Badlands. Look.
KJ: This is from just before we were pulled into the Delta Quadrant. What's that?
C: The scanners had only just picked it up when... But I think it is a Cardassian ship.
KJ: Did they get pulled in with the rest of us?
C: Hard to say, but I don't think so. I'm wondering why they were there.
KJ: (Sees where his train of thought is going) Seska?
C: Tuvok is looking at the repair logs from before. If I was the bait to get you into the Badlands, then they must have had extensive knowledge of Voyager and a plan.
KJ: Someone was able to rewire the self destruct so it could be easily deactivated. Probably when the ship was in space dock.
C: And she has extensive knowledge of the ship. The Kazon trap may have been a modification of a plan the Cardassians were going to try in the Badlands.
KJ: We'll have to completely redo our security protocols.
C: Tuvok is already working on a plan. Whoever modified the self destruct was very good. A level 1 diagnostic didn't find it, and we knew to look for it.
KJ: I wonder what else this person tinkered with. (she places her hand on Chakotay's. She smiles and looks at her screen) Tom is on his way. We should now more in a few days.
#
#
Several days later with Tom, Carey and 1 other on the shuttle arrive at the supposed Kazon shuttle wreck. The shuttle is being bounced around.
TP: (working the controls to keep the ship under control) Scan the area for wreckage and look for a warp trail.
CAREY: Yes, sir. (The wreckage is now on screen) Sir, the amount of wreckage comes nowhere near the amount needed. But with the strong stellar winds in this area the debris could be scattered across the sector by now.
TP: Bring samples aboard, we'll take them back.
CAREY: Tom, I detect a body. It's Kazon.
TP: Beam it aboard, and do a standard search pattern. I also want a continuous scan of the area for any unwanted company.
CAREY: Yes sir. (After a long pause) I find remnants of Voyager's trail, but no other warp trail.
TP: That's not surprising. Seska would know our standard procedure. We'll have to be nonstandard. (He punches some buttons) I asked B'Elanna to add this to the shuttle. We're going to do an ion displacement survey. It's slow. So get comfortable we're going to be here for a while.
#
#
CAREY: The trail is pretty cold, but I do find one. Bearing three six four. I can't determine if it was the shuttle or another small ship.
TP: Any ships in the area?
CAREY: Not in our immediate area, but it was headed toward an area of heavy Kazon traffic.
TP: As we're on the fringes of their scanning ranges and we're not supposed to attract attention. Let's go back.
(The shuttle turns and goes to warp speed).
#
#
T: Captain, Lieutenant Paris' shuttle has just landed.
KJ: Very good. Mr. Tuvok please inform the senior staff there will be a meeting in an hour. And have Neelix attend.
T: Yes captain.
#
#
TP: The fragments are from a Kazon shuttle. We found one Kazon body. Doc is performing an autopsy.
BT: Was there enough material to be a shuttle.
TP: Impossible to tell. The wreckage is in an area of stiff stellar winds. We calculate that the wreckage could be spread half-way across the system.
C: Any evidence of a vessel surviving?
TP: We found Voyager's warp trail and did an Ion Displacement Survey. We did find a trail of a 2nd craft. Impossible to tell if it was the shuttle. It was heading toward an area of major Kazon Traffic.
N: Assuming the Kazon survivors have found their way to safety, Seska will probably face a charge of treason.
KJ: (comm-badge) Doc, have you completed the autopsy.
DOC Voice: Yes, the victim was a male Kazon in his early 30s with decided wear on his teeth. He had a broken right molar....
KJ: Doc, what did he die of?
DOC: Phaser blast. He was dead before being dumped in space.
KJ: Thanks. (to staff) I think I speak for the crew, when I say we don't want her back. (Looks around, no one is disagreeing) B'Elanna, how are repairs and the overhaul progressing.
BT: On schedule, Captain.
KJ: The interior?
HK: We have finished rewiring the bridge and galley. And are half way through engineering. We have taken the damaged impulse engine to be repaired. That should take another 4 hours.
C: The ship diagnostic is complete, nothing. We're working on a protocol to do a ship dry dock diagnostic to see what else may be hidden. I don't have great expectations. We will probably end up doing it wire by wire.
KJ: Let's get everything else working.
WILDMAN(voice): Captain, We're receiving a distress signal.
KJ: From who?
WILDMAN: The Kazon.
KJ: Pipe it through. Tom get all the shuttles on patrol again. (he leaves)
VOICE: (very hard to understand, comes in and out) This is Grand Maj Kaolme. We are under siege....(the sound trails off.)...Surprised by...
KJ looks at C: You don't think...
C: No. (Couldn't be)
#
#
Several days later. Janeway, Chakotay, Torres, Tuvok, and Kim are inspecting the ship's hull. Work is pretty much completed. Some of the lettering needs to be finished.
They tour the interior. The bridge is clean, but in the process of being repainted. The galley has been cleaned, engineering is functional. All engines are on line. However some of the colors are not standard SF. Especially in the galley and dining hall. They end in Kes' gardens which she has been working at for the last several weeks.
KJ: Have everybody back aboard by 1900 hours this evening. We will do the pre flight and leave at 0700 hours.
N: Captain, I think we should head to the Talaxian colony and find out what is happening. We can also restock on food supplies.
BT: And finish a few things we were unable to do here.
KJ: I agree. Good job, everybody. And take sometime off. As long as your back by 1900 hours. Dismissed. (they all leave except KJ and C)
C: Are you going to take some time off? (He stands near her)
KJ: I don't have the time.
C: So you keep saying. I'll have to get Doc to order you to.
KJ: And you?
C: Not much point, even if I did have the time.
#
#
They arrive at Talaxian Colony and are met by Captain Roylux (The Talaxian fleet commander).
R: Captain Janeway, Commander. It is a pleasure to see you again. Have you heard?
KJ: Heard what. (she is with Chakotay, Tuvok, and B'elanna)
R: The Kazon are in disarray. There seems to have been some sort of rebellion. Not much information is getting out. But it looks like it was a major coup. You're ship looks better. I have requested that every consideration be given to you and your crew. I have sent a list of the supplies you requested to the governor. He is most anxious to help. He feels that you are somehow responsible for the Kazon's problems. They haven't bothered us in a couple of weeks now.
KJ: Thank-you. (I think). But we aren't responsible for the coup. We've been working on Voyager the past 3 weeks.
R: Never the less.
C: You know something?
R: If you believe the report.
C: Report?
R: A report we received last night saying the Kazon women have rebelled and taken control of several factions.
C looks at KJ: It couldn't be? (she shakes her head)
R: If you would excuse me, I must make arrangements for the fleet departure. Commander, Mr. Tuvok if you would follow me, our security chief is waiting.
BT: If the Kazon are distracted, now is would be a good time for us to pass through the last of their territory.
KJ: Voyager will be the last thing on there minds. (She smiles)
BT: What's funny?
KJ: The image of the Kazon men having to listen and obey their women.
BT (she likes the image): It might almost be worth staying to see.
#
#
Janeway is passing through-on her way to another meeting. She smiles at the overflowing tables of leola root. Several of the crew are also there. Kes and Neelix arrive, they are resupplying the food stores and getting plants for the ship's gardens. Chakotay enters behind her.
C: Hello. (He smiles at her. Kes notices and discreetly watches)
KJ: Aren't you a little lost. The ship is that way.
C: (Looks at the leola root tables and back at her): I'm on a mission. To seek out and destroy all the leola root I can find. (She laughs, he smiles. Neelix is buying a large quantity of roots). I'm too late. (They walk silently side by side. They pass a flower seller. He stops and bargains with the vendor. He picks a bunch and hands them to her.) Here, for you. (She takes them and blushes. Kes smiles. KJ becomes aware that several of the crew are watching.)
KJ: (Becoming formal, the Captain again) Commander, how did the meeting with the Talaxian Security Chief go.
C: (He has also noticed the stares and makes a guess at why she has changed her demeanor) It went fine, Captain. She is working with Tuvok on how to redo our protocols. However the new security measures will not meet Star Fleet regulations.
KJ: As long as they work.
C: Well, I've got to go. I'm meeting with the chief of Talaxian Intelligence.
KJ: And I'm meeting with the governor. Commander. (He leaves and she looks around. She sniffs her flowers, thinks for a few seconds, and leaves for her meeting. Kes watches her leave and smiles)
N: Sweetie. (He passes a hand in front of Kes's eyes.)
K: I'm sorry Neelix. You were asking?
N: I wanted to know what you found so interesting?
K: (Smiling) Proof that my hypothesis is correct.
N: What?
K: Never mind. (He looks around, then turns back to the Ogayuma melon vendor)
#
#
Janeway is in her ready room. The senior staff enter, Chakotay is last. She avoids eye contact and tries to be professional. She ends up being stiff and very formal. Kes and Tom notice and the others are aware of something.
KJ: Lieutenant Torres how is the engine overhaul going.
BT: Faster than expected. We will be done tomorrow.
KJ: Good. Neelix, the re-supplying?
N: Great. We've been able to restock our supplies of leola root too. And Kes has picked up seeds and seedlings for her gardens.
KJ: Commander, anymore information on the Kazon?
C: Just that the coup involved nonKazons.
KJ: (startled) Seska?
C: Not known at this point Captain.
KJ: And the security overhaul.
T: We've been working with the Talaxian security. We will be incorporating several of their security structures into ours. The first phase will be completed this afternoon.
KJ: Excellent job, everybody. Departure will be in 48 hours. Unless there is something else. (nothing) Dismissed. (The others are leaving, Chakotay doesn't. Paris and Kes smile as they leave.)
KJ: Commander.
C: Captain, I was wondering. It's been a hard few weeks and I know you haven't taken anytime off.
KJ: Yes?
C: Kathryn, I was wondering if you would like to go a boat trip in the holodeck later?
KJ: I'd like that.
C: (slightly surprised) We're off in 3 hours, would that be OK?
KJ: Yes (she smiles at him)
#
#
Harry and Tom are at the navigation console.
HK: What gives.
TP: What?
HK: With the Captain. She seemed so formal.
TP: (smiling) That she did.
HK: Tom, you seem to know everything that happens aboard this ship.
TP: So?
HK: Well do you know what is going on?
TP: Going on?
(Before Harry can murder him, B'Elanna signals Harry to come over. he goes.)
#
#
In the holodeck, Chakotay is waiting. It is a riparian setting, with a canoe (I prefer them to rowboats or sailboats) Janeway enters.
C: You're late.
KJ: I almost didn't come. (they're standing far apart) A canoe. I haven't been canoeing in a long time.
C: Don't tell me you hated that too.
KJ: Actually no. I enjoyed canoeing as a kid. We used to live by a lake. (she is blushing. He holds out his hand to help her in. She sits in the bow) Hey, how did I get the front. (He shrugs his shoulders and pushes the canoe and climbs in)
C: My idea, I get to steer. (She splashes him with her paddle) None of that.
KJ: OK, where to?
C: Around.
They start, both are quiet, birds are singing, she is very aware of the fact he is staring at her, she just doesn't turn around.
#
#
BT: Harry we need to recalibrate that impulse engine again, its still not functioning at the proper frequency.
HK: I'll get on it.
BT: Our anti-matter supplies are getting low. We'll need to design a collecting device.
HK: Maybe we should run a diagnostic to see where we're losing anti-matter. We shouldn't be running low.
BT: (as she turns to work on a terminal) I did. Engine efficiency was decreasing before, and the Kazon were generous in their use of anti-matter.
#
#
J/C are landing the canoe. They both climb out.
C: Glad you decided to come after all?
KJ: Yes. I had a lovely time. Thanks. (They are standing close together. He kisses her quickly. She stammers something and hastily leaves. Chakotay smiles.)
#
#
Janeway is working on her personal log.
KJ: Captain's personal log Stardate 4***. We've been two years with no contact with our families and loved ones in the alpha quadrant. By now Star Fleet has declared us dead. Those in the alpha quadrant have grieved and moved on. Most of the crew have also moved on. They consider Voyager their home. It is difficult for me... Star Fleet regulations do allow for a captain to become involved... (stops) Computer erase log. Try again. Captain's personal log, Stardate 4***. When we were first stranded out here 2 years ago, my goal was to get us back to the alpha quadrant. I had a life there, so did the crew; and I would not, could not believe that there was any other choice. And yet, somehow, there was, and I think everybody else saw that before me. Voyager has become our home. Only I didn't see that until recently. (stops) Computer erase log again.
She quits with nothing recorded, looks at that ever present picture of Mark and the dog, and silently puts it away.
#
#
(2 days later, they are near the Kazon boarder and at yellow alert
KJ upon entering the bridge. She is avoiding Chakotay) Report.
C: Still no sign of the Kazon, Captain, not even their normal ship traffic.
HK: Radio communications are active. Almost all Kazon ships are headed toward the Nestrum Home World-away from us.
KJ: Good. Ensign, do the radio messages tell us what is going on.
HK: The Kazon are gathering for some sort of peace conference. Captain, have you ever read a play called Lysistrata? (Paris has, he smiles)
KJ: No.
HK: It's a classical Greek play. The Grecian women refuse to... (The subject is a little embarrassing for Harry). Well, it seems the Kazon women have tried the same thing.
(Chakotay has typed a request to the computer about the plot, he's trying not to smile)
T: (Who has also not read it) Captain, we're being hailed. (This brings the brief joviality quickly to an end) From a beacon in the asteroid field.
C: Red alert. Put it on screen.
SESKA'S IMAGE: Hello, I thought I would leave you a brief message to tell you I am fine. So is the child. If you receive this message you will be close to the Kazon border. I have more important things to do than chase a ship across the galaxy. You've no doubt heard that several of the Kazon factions have fallen. (She smiles) The Kazon thought so little of their women, it's no wonder the leadership collapsed so quickly when they decided to revolt. The Kazon will be united. I have a government to create, so (whatever good-bye in Cardassian is). (message ends)
C: Remarkable.
T: Captain, there are no ships in the area.
KJ: Very good. Yellow alert, again. How far to the end of Kazon territory.
TP: We should arrive in 26 hours and 13 minutes at present course and speed.
KJ: (tapping comm-badge) Janeway to Neelix.
N: How can I help, Captain.
KJ: Report to bridge.
N: On my way.
#
#
KJ: What do you know about the space beyond the Kazon?
N: I've never been there, but friends of mine tell stories. There are the Hafflidians. They are a very reclusive and formal group. They avoid outsiders for the most part. They do have warp capability and are very advanced. There are several other groups, but I know very little about them. I've heard stories, most are not pleasant.
T: The Viidians?
N: They are a strange group. Scattered. We could run into a ship. And there are roving bands of Kazon, that may not have heard about their new situation. They won't be as organized or as formidable though.
KJ: Keep the ship at yellow alert until after we've entered the new territory. Run a complete scan. Also scan for dilithium and a source of anti-matter. Lieutenant Torres wants to replenish our supplies.
#
#
29 hours later, they're out of Kazon space.
T: Captain, the scans show no ships in this sector. There is a inhabited planet. But we will not being going near it.
KJ: Very good. Secure from yellow alert.
C: Yes captain.
#
#
KJ is standing at her window watching the stars. Her door bell rings
KJ: Enter. (She is half watching the door and the stars.)
C (enters and watches her.): Kathryn. (she doesn't respond, he walks closer to her.) We need to talk.
KJ: (very quietly) I know. (neither one speaks, though both try to start. After a few seconds she speaks-fast) I never planned on this. I'm captain of this ship, I'm not suppose to fall in love with the ship's commander. (This is not what she had planned on saying and she turns away from him.)
C: (After a pause-he needs to approach her in another way) Star Fleet regulations allow for that. (smiles) I looked. 'As long as the personal relationship doesn't interfere with the operation of the ship.' Captain's discretion on what is considered interference.
KJ: That's for the crew in general. For the command officers, if needed, it's at some Admiral's discretion. (Chakotay looks around.)
C: I haven't seen too many Star Fleet admirals around, have you?
KJ: (with a laugh and faces him) Not a one. Good thing too. They tend to be boring. (she becomes serious) This frightens me. I've always kept my personal life separate from my professional life. That's not possible in our case.
C: You can't spend what may be a lifetime isolated because you want to maintain your privacy.
KJ: I know. I've thought about this a lot, ever since that night.
Chakotay smiles at the memory.
KJ: (blushing) Do you really find peace here on Voyager?
C: With you.
He raises his hand and she entwines her fingers in his. She then surprises him by placing his hand along side her face. He touches her face and she looks up into his eyes. He leans down and kisses her. When he pulls back to watch her expression, she reaches up and strokes his face. They kiss again.
C: (knowing she's not ready for the "next step"-but with a lot of regret): I'd better be going.
KJ: (He's right and she's well of aware of it) Night. (She also has some regrets. He leaves and she stares at the door.)