1 00:00:02,080 --> 00:00:06,358 - Why potatoes? - They wanted to clone Naomi. 2 00:00:06,520 --> 00:00:09,797 I suggested they start with something smaller. 3 00:00:20,080 --> 00:00:22,879 - Quite a feat. - It's a Tairenian ant colony. 4 00:00:23,040 --> 00:00:27,910 I infused the soil with a blue dye so it would be easier to see the insects. 5 00:00:28,080 --> 00:00:29,912 They're luminescent! 6 00:00:30,080 --> 00:00:33,550 Drones produce a fluorescent enzyme activated by the queen. 7 00:00:33,720 --> 00:00:37,873 Drones and queens. We were trying to get the children away from the Borg. 8 00:00:38,040 --> 00:00:42,637 It was Mezoti's idea. I didn't want to discourage her individuality. 9 00:00:42,800 --> 00:00:45,713 - I like bugs. - Well done. 10 00:00:45,880 --> 00:00:49,111 Let me know before you take up beekeeping. 11 00:00:50,120 --> 00:00:52,077 - What's this? - Katarus. 12 00:00:52,240 --> 00:00:55,995 - Your father's planet. - I've been learning about it. 13 00:00:56,240 --> 00:00:59,995 Naomi programmed the geophysical and atmospheric conditions. 14 00:01:00,160 --> 00:01:04,597 - There's a storm in those mountains. - The range is known for hail. 15 00:01:04,760 --> 00:01:07,593 I'll remember to bring my coat. 16 00:01:12,360 --> 00:01:14,317 This looks impressive. 17 00:01:14,480 --> 00:01:18,360 - It's a gravimetric sensor array. - Ambitious. 18 00:01:18,520 --> 00:01:23,037 It'll allow us to scan for neutrino flux associated with wormholes. 19 00:01:23,200 --> 00:01:29,151 - It could help Voyager get home faster. - The engineering principles are sound. 20 00:01:30,000 --> 00:01:34,756 I expected these projects to be interesting, but this is exceptional. 21 00:01:34,920 --> 00:01:38,754 Thank you, Captain. I'm interested in astrophysics. 22 00:01:39,560 --> 00:01:43,838 You've obviously got a knack for it. Well done. 23 00:01:44,000 --> 00:01:47,470 How did you think of scanning for neutrino fluctuations? 24 00:01:47,640 --> 00:01:51,634 - I've been studying Starfleet records. - He's remarkable. 25 00:01:51,800 --> 00:01:56,749 - He's hoping for a post in astrometrics. - That won't be possible. 26 00:01:56,920 --> 00:02:00,550 - The boy has a unique talent. - It's not a question of merit. 27 00:02:01,640 --> 00:02:07,192 We've made contact with his parents and I've set a course for their planet. 28 00:02:08,520 --> 00:02:13,230 My scanner is calibrated to pick up changes in neutrino trajectories. 29 00:02:13,400 --> 00:02:15,710 That's good news. 30 00:04:06,640 --> 00:04:10,520 - You've exceeded your time by an hour. - I'm almost finished. 31 00:04:10,680 --> 00:04:14,514 Your work will have to wait. We need to discuss something. 32 00:04:14,680 --> 00:04:16,637 Look at this. 33 00:04:22,640 --> 00:04:25,109 It's a star in the Orpisay nebula. 34 00:04:25,280 --> 00:04:27,999 The Orpisay nebula is out of our range. 35 00:04:28,160 --> 00:04:32,279 I increased the resolution of the long-range scanners. 36 00:04:32,440 --> 00:04:33,919 Impressive. 37 00:04:34,080 --> 00:04:38,756 When I was on the cube I never thought about what was outside - 38 00:04:39,680 --> 00:04:43,958 pulsars, quasars, nebulas. 39 00:04:44,800 --> 00:04:49,829 But here in this lab I feel like I can see the entire galaxy. 40 00:04:51,640 --> 00:04:56,476 What did you want to talk about? We needed to discuss something? 41 00:04:56,640 --> 00:04:59,075 Yes. That's correct. 42 00:05:02,240 --> 00:05:05,870 It's time for you to regenerate. 43 00:05:23,280 --> 00:05:25,237 Come in. 44 00:05:26,320 --> 00:05:28,994 I'd like the data on Icheb's species 45 00:05:29,160 --> 00:05:31,629 so I can prepare him for re-assimilation. 46 00:05:31,800 --> 00:05:35,509 Maybe we could call it getting reacquainted with his family. 47 00:05:35,680 --> 00:05:40,117 - If you'd prefer. - I'll transfer the files to astrometrics. 48 00:05:40,280 --> 00:05:43,830 - Thank you. - How did he take the news? 49 00:05:47,240 --> 00:05:49,197 You haven't told him. 50 00:05:50,280 --> 00:05:53,477 - No. - Why not? 51 00:05:53,640 --> 00:05:55,756 It won't be easy for him. 52 00:05:55,920 --> 00:06:00,312 - He's adapted to Voyager. - And you've adapted to him. 53 00:06:00,480 --> 00:06:03,598 - My feelings are irrelevant. - Are they? 54 00:06:08,280 --> 00:06:12,513 - Would you like me to tell him? - It's my responsibility. 55 00:06:13,840 --> 00:06:17,151 But I am uncertain how to proceed. 56 00:06:18,080 --> 00:06:23,632 You helped him make one difficult transition. How did you do that? 57 00:06:23,800 --> 00:06:26,713 By giving him the benefit of my experience. 58 00:06:26,880 --> 00:06:31,158 Encouraging him to be resilient in the face of obstacles. 59 00:06:32,040 --> 00:06:34,839 Sounds like a good strategy. 60 00:07:03,320 --> 00:07:06,438 Is your alcove malfunctioning? 61 00:07:06,600 --> 00:07:11,674 - I'm calculating neutrino trajectories. - You need to regenerate. 62 00:07:13,720 --> 00:07:15,677 Very well. 63 00:07:17,560 --> 00:07:19,392 Wait. 64 00:07:21,920 --> 00:07:24,116 We've located your parents. 65 00:07:24,280 --> 00:07:28,069 Voyager is due to arrive at their planet tomorrow. 66 00:07:30,120 --> 00:07:32,350 Do I have to stay with them? 67 00:07:32,520 --> 00:07:37,754 - They're your parents. - I don't remember them. 68 00:07:38,840 --> 00:07:42,754 After my parents were assimilated I never saw them again. 69 00:07:42,920 --> 00:07:47,391 - You're fortunate to have this chance. - What about the others? 70 00:07:47,560 --> 00:07:50,871 - We haven't located their families. - That's not what I mean. 71 00:07:51,040 --> 00:07:54,237 What will happen to them if I leave? 72 00:07:54,400 --> 00:07:58,030 - They depend on me. - They'll adapt. 73 00:08:02,840 --> 00:08:05,434 I'll never see you again? 74 00:08:07,520 --> 00:08:10,034 I've been studying Brunali culture. 75 00:08:10,200 --> 00:08:14,478 - It's very different to Voyager. - In what way? 76 00:08:15,440 --> 00:08:21,470 They're an agrarian society. Their technological resources are limited. 77 00:08:21,640 --> 00:08:24,393 - Are they capable of space travel? - Yes. 78 00:08:24,560 --> 00:08:27,154 But most vessels were destroyed by the Borg. 79 00:08:27,320 --> 00:08:30,392 How will I continue my studies? 80 00:08:31,760 --> 00:08:33,956 I don't know. 81 00:08:39,680 --> 00:08:41,876 Icheb... 82 00:08:58,720 --> 00:09:01,473 I detect enclaves on the northern continent, 83 00:09:01,680 --> 00:09:04,240 all with populations of fewer than 10,000. 84 00:09:04,400 --> 00:09:06,869 Judging from the gamma radiation, 85 00:09:07,040 --> 00:09:10,271 they've suffered Borg attacks over the past decade. 86 00:09:10,440 --> 00:09:15,037 That's not surprising. There's a Borg transwarp conduit a light year away. 87 00:09:15,200 --> 00:09:21,037 - Not exactly prime real estate. - Tuvok, run scans for Borg activity. 88 00:09:21,200 --> 00:09:24,477 - Tom, put us into synchronous orbit. - Yes, ma'am. 89 00:09:24,640 --> 00:09:27,200 Seven, you'd better get Icheb. 90 00:09:34,400 --> 00:09:37,916 According to these scans you're in perfect health. 91 00:09:38,080 --> 00:09:41,471 Then why does my stomach feel strange? 92 00:09:45,400 --> 00:09:49,871 Oh. I should have known. You've got butterflies in there. 93 00:09:50,040 --> 00:09:52,680 I never assimilated butterflies. 94 00:09:52,840 --> 00:09:57,038 It's an expression to describe anxiety or apprehension, 95 00:09:57,200 --> 00:10:02,559 both of which are natural reactions for someone meeting his long lost parents. 96 00:10:02,720 --> 00:10:06,998 I'm sure they're just as nervous about meeting you. 97 00:10:07,160 --> 00:10:09,470 - Parents are irrelevant. - Really? 98 00:10:09,640 --> 00:10:11,836 Is Naomi's mother irrelevant? 99 00:10:12,000 --> 00:10:15,959 I have Seven of Nine to assist me in my education. 100 00:10:16,120 --> 00:10:19,033 I have you to care for my medical needs. 101 00:10:19,200 --> 00:10:22,238 Your parents can nurture you in ways we can't. 102 00:10:22,400 --> 00:10:26,280 They can explain Brunali culture, share their experiences. 103 00:10:26,440 --> 00:10:28,477 - You didn't have parents. - No... 104 00:10:28,640 --> 00:10:31,109 You adapted to serve a vital function, 105 00:10:31,280 --> 00:10:35,592 forged relationships with the crew, without the benefit of parents. 106 00:10:35,760 --> 00:10:37,717 I had my programming. 107 00:10:37,880 --> 00:10:42,954 How would your programming respond if you were asked to live with strangers? 108 00:10:47,640 --> 00:10:50,280 - Are you damaged? - He's fine. 109 00:10:50,440 --> 00:10:53,956 I was giving him a last minute check-up. 110 00:10:54,120 --> 00:10:56,077 It's time. 111 00:10:58,120 --> 00:11:00,555 The butterflies will go away. 112 00:11:37,360 --> 00:11:40,159 Hello. I'm Captain Janeway. 113 00:11:40,320 --> 00:11:43,392 - Icheb... - You've... grown. 114 00:11:43,560 --> 00:11:47,110 He's spent several months in a Borg maturation chamber. 115 00:11:48,920 --> 00:11:51,275 This is Seven of Nine. 116 00:11:51,440 --> 00:11:56,116 - That's a Borg designation. - I was liberated from the collective. 117 00:11:56,280 --> 00:12:00,035 Seven was instrumental in helping Icheb make his transition. 118 00:12:00,200 --> 00:12:03,955 Then we're grateful to you. I'm Leucon, Icheb's father. 119 00:12:04,120 --> 00:12:06,316 This is his mother, Yifay. 120 00:12:07,240 --> 00:12:11,677 - How are you? - Fine. 121 00:12:13,080 --> 00:12:17,358 - Do these hurt you? - No. 122 00:12:21,320 --> 00:12:24,438 We're very happy to have you back with us. 123 00:12:24,600 --> 00:12:27,319 Mala, Remi, Yivel. 124 00:12:27,480 --> 00:12:29,517 Welcome home, Icheb. 125 00:12:36,520 --> 00:12:39,512 I would like to return to Voyager now. 126 00:12:52,760 --> 00:12:56,355 - Thank you for coming. - Where's Icheb? 127 00:12:56,520 --> 00:12:59,717 I thought it better if we talked by ourselves. 128 00:12:59,880 --> 00:13:05,239 - What is there to discuss? - How to make this transition easier. 129 00:13:05,400 --> 00:13:07,357 Please, sit down. 130 00:13:13,480 --> 00:13:17,758 It won't be easy for him to give up the luxuries of your ship. 131 00:13:17,920 --> 00:13:21,197 It's more than luxuries. He has medical needs. 132 00:13:21,360 --> 00:13:26,036 - We have a physician. - He should consult with our doctor. 133 00:13:26,200 --> 00:13:28,510 He also requires daily regeneration. 134 00:13:28,680 --> 00:13:32,230 You can adapt our technology to make that possible. 135 00:13:32,400 --> 00:13:35,870 - What about his education? - Our children go to school. 136 00:13:36,040 --> 00:13:38,839 Will he be able to study astrometrics? 137 00:13:39,000 --> 00:13:44,712 If Icheb has an aptitude for science, he'll find that we have a lot to teach him. 138 00:13:44,880 --> 00:13:46,996 For example? 139 00:13:47,160 --> 00:13:50,118 Agricultural geonetics, allowing us to grow crops 140 00:13:50,280 --> 00:13:52,590 in an inhospitable environment. 141 00:13:52,760 --> 00:13:55,400 Icheb has no interest in agriculture. 142 00:13:55,560 --> 00:13:59,474 I'm sure he'll find the subject quite challenging. 143 00:13:59,640 --> 00:14:04,396 - There's the issue of his safety. - We're able to protect our son. 144 00:14:05,320 --> 00:14:08,915 Your proximity to a Borg conduit makes you vulnerable. 145 00:14:09,080 --> 00:14:12,710 - Have you considered relocating? - Seven. 146 00:14:12,880 --> 00:14:17,272 It's all right. This planet is our home. We will never leave it. 147 00:14:17,440 --> 00:14:21,957 We will defend it against the Borg or anyone else who threatens us. 148 00:14:22,120 --> 00:14:25,750 - Your courage is unrealistic. - See me in my ready room. 149 00:14:25,920 --> 00:14:27,877 - Captain! - Now. 150 00:14:40,760 --> 00:14:42,956 I apologise for her behaviour. 151 00:14:43,120 --> 00:14:47,876 - She and Icheb have grown very close. - We'd like to see our son now. 152 00:14:49,240 --> 00:14:51,311 Please be patient. 153 00:14:51,480 --> 00:14:56,395 If we rush, your next encounter may not go any better than the last. 154 00:14:57,280 --> 00:14:59,476 Stay aboard Voyager for a while. 155 00:14:59,640 --> 00:15:03,998 It'll give him a chance to get to know you in a familiar environment. 156 00:15:04,160 --> 00:15:08,393 Neelix will do everything he can to make you comfortable. 157 00:15:15,800 --> 00:15:20,874 - Your attitude is making it worse. - I was ensuring Icheb's well-being. 158 00:15:21,040 --> 00:15:24,158 - By insults? - Those issues had to be discussed. 159 00:15:24,320 --> 00:15:27,199 - You could have had more tact. - Perhaps. 160 00:15:27,360 --> 00:15:30,910 But that doesn't mean that they may not be suitable. 161 00:15:31,080 --> 00:15:35,916 - They are his mother and father. - No guarantee they can care for him. 162 00:15:36,080 --> 00:15:41,871 - He's more likely to flourish on Voyager. - That's not an option, Seven. 163 00:15:42,040 --> 00:15:45,476 Are you ordering him off the ship so he can be assimilated? 164 00:15:45,640 --> 00:15:49,474 - Why would that happen? - They shouldn't remain on that planet. 165 00:15:49,640 --> 00:15:52,632 Who are you to decide that? 166 00:15:52,800 --> 00:15:55,633 Who are you to decide that? 167 00:15:55,800 --> 00:16:01,000 Anyone who values their goals over their children's safety is irresponsible. 168 00:16:01,160 --> 00:16:05,518 Are we talking about Icheb's parents, or yours? 169 00:16:05,680 --> 00:16:07,637 Both. 170 00:16:13,560 --> 00:16:15,790 It's not like you to admit that. 171 00:16:15,960 --> 00:16:20,113 It would be naive for me to claim objectivity in this case. 172 00:16:20,280 --> 00:16:24,478 But I'm not returning Icheb to parents who may be as careless as my own. 173 00:16:24,640 --> 00:16:29,999 I know what it's like to feel protective toward someone you've helped. 174 00:16:31,840 --> 00:16:35,071 But Icheb is an individual now. 175 00:16:35,240 --> 00:16:39,313 You have to give him a chance to form his own opinions. 176 00:16:40,600 --> 00:16:43,956 If I do and he decides to remain on Voyager... 177 00:16:45,640 --> 00:16:47,870 Then it'll be my problem. 178 00:16:50,440 --> 00:16:53,080 Is your mother pretty? 179 00:16:53,240 --> 00:16:55,231 What are they like? 180 00:16:55,400 --> 00:16:58,631 - I'm busy. - I never met my father. 181 00:16:58,800 --> 00:17:02,395 - I don't remember ours. - Neither do 1. 182 00:17:03,440 --> 00:17:05,511 Will you stay with them? 183 00:17:05,680 --> 00:17:08,877 If you leave, who'll help with our projects? 184 00:17:09,040 --> 00:17:13,591 If you don't stop asking questions, I'll put you in a cargo container 185 00:17:13,760 --> 00:17:15,910 and transport you back to the Borg. 186 00:17:22,840 --> 00:17:24,319 Come with me. 187 00:17:24,480 --> 00:17:27,836 - Where? - To dinner with your parents. 188 00:17:28,000 --> 00:17:31,709 - I'm working. - Continue your work after the meal. 189 00:17:31,880 --> 00:17:37,558 - I don't have anything to talk about. - Then it will be a very quiet evening. 190 00:17:37,720 --> 00:17:41,759 - I'm not going. - Your attendance is not optional. 191 00:18:11,640 --> 00:18:14,632 Enjoy your meal. 192 00:18:17,200 --> 00:18:22,115 - Come, sit down. - I'd prefer to stand. 193 00:18:23,960 --> 00:18:28,431 Mr Neelix let me use his galley to prepare some poma. 194 00:18:28,600 --> 00:18:30,750 I'm not hungry. 195 00:18:31,560 --> 00:18:34,234 It was your favourite food when you were little. 196 00:18:34,400 --> 00:18:37,119 I'm not little anymore. 197 00:18:38,000 --> 00:18:41,550 No. No you're not. 198 00:18:45,680 --> 00:18:48,832 Your mother worked hard on that meal. 199 00:18:50,320 --> 00:18:52,960 Couldn't you at least try it? 200 00:19:29,040 --> 00:19:31,395 Good... 201 00:19:31,560 --> 00:19:33,836 isn't it? 202 00:19:39,240 --> 00:19:43,598 Nice to see the family back together, isn't it? 203 00:19:44,360 --> 00:19:48,319 When you were little, you would only eat the insides... 204 00:20:02,520 --> 00:20:05,160 The Borg didn't leave us much. 205 00:20:05,320 --> 00:20:07,960 We didn't need much. Just ingenuity. 206 00:20:08,120 --> 00:20:13,035 Everything you see, we built. Our homes, cultivation bays... 207 00:20:13,880 --> 00:20:17,714 - What's this? - A genetic resequencer. 208 00:20:17,880 --> 00:20:22,750 It's to alter the DNA of plants to conform with environmental conditions. 209 00:20:22,920 --> 00:20:26,675 - You built this? - We adapted parts from vessels. 210 00:20:26,840 --> 00:20:30,117 - Nothing's been wasted. - Efficient. 211 00:20:30,280 --> 00:20:36,310 Efficiency's an attribute we share with the Borg. In our case, it's a necessity. 212 00:20:37,840 --> 00:20:42,676 I know our settlement seems primitive compared to Voyager. 213 00:20:42,840 --> 00:20:45,354 But I promise you, that will change. 214 00:20:45,520 --> 00:20:50,720 - What about space travel? - Someday our ships will rival Voyager. 215 00:20:50,880 --> 00:20:54,191 But we need young people like you to help us. 216 00:20:54,360 --> 00:20:56,795 Icheb... how are you? 217 00:20:56,960 --> 00:20:59,156 Well. Thank you. 218 00:20:59,320 --> 00:21:03,837 Maybe later you can join us up on the field for a game of pala. 219 00:21:06,000 --> 00:21:10,233 - I don't remember how to play. - It'll come back to you. 220 00:21:12,280 --> 00:21:15,113 You used to be quite an athlete. 221 00:21:16,360 --> 00:21:18,351 You can make a difference here. 222 00:21:18,520 --> 00:21:22,036 I don't know about agriculture or genetics. 223 00:21:22,200 --> 00:21:26,080 It won't take you long to learn, not with a mind like yours. 224 00:21:28,280 --> 00:21:32,160 - Time to return to Voyager. - I'm staying here tonight. 225 00:21:32,320 --> 00:21:36,791 - They don't have a regeneration unit. - We'll have to install one. 226 00:21:36,960 --> 00:21:38,917 Might as well do it now. 227 00:21:39,080 --> 00:21:42,391 He hasn't decided to remain here yet. 228 00:21:42,560 --> 00:21:45,951 But he has asked to stay tonight. 229 00:21:48,400 --> 00:21:52,109 Return with me to the ship. We'll prepare a regeneration unit. 230 00:21:57,000 --> 00:22:00,994 The neural transceiver interfaces with the portable regenerator. 231 00:22:01,160 --> 00:22:04,073 It has enough power for one full cycle. 232 00:22:04,240 --> 00:22:06,914 We'll need a way of recharging it. 233 00:22:07,080 --> 00:22:09,469 If Icheb decides to stay. 234 00:22:12,560 --> 00:22:16,793 My wife and I appreciate everything you've done for our son. 235 00:22:16,960 --> 00:22:20,590 - It's obvious you care. - He's a unique individual. 236 00:22:20,760 --> 00:22:22,717 Yes, he is. 237 00:22:22,880 --> 00:22:26,714 To get him back is, well, a miracle. 238 00:22:29,040 --> 00:22:31,190 How was he taken? 239 00:22:34,800 --> 00:22:40,876 Since the Borg attacked, we've tried to hide new technology we develop. 240 00:22:41,040 --> 00:22:44,192 So that passing cubes won't be attracted. 241 00:22:44,360 --> 00:22:47,910 We haven't always been successful. 242 00:22:49,400 --> 00:22:53,109 One morning, about four years ago... 243 00:22:55,520 --> 00:23:02,039 Icheb heard me talking about a fertilisation array we'd constructed. 244 00:23:02,200 --> 00:23:04,191 He wanted to see it. 245 00:23:04,360 --> 00:23:07,557 I told him I'd take him the next day. 246 00:23:07,720 --> 00:23:10,439 He was impatient, the way boys can be. 247 00:23:10,600 --> 00:23:14,116 I hadn't realised he'd wandered off when the alarm sounded. 248 00:23:14,280 --> 00:23:16,237 It turns out the Borg... 249 00:23:17,040 --> 00:23:21,671 ...were just as interested in our new technology as Icheb. 250 00:23:21,840 --> 00:23:27,358 They took him and assimilated everyone in the area. 251 00:23:28,520 --> 00:23:30,830 If only I'd kept a closer eye on him. 252 00:23:32,240 --> 00:23:35,471 Icheb has a mind of his own. 253 00:23:35,720 --> 00:23:39,475 But still, it's hard not to blame myself. 254 00:23:40,360 --> 00:23:44,035 Your parents must have felt the same when they lost you. 255 00:23:44,200 --> 00:23:47,556 My parents were with me when the Borg attacked. 256 00:23:47,720 --> 00:23:50,473 I can't imagine what that was like... 257 00:23:50,640 --> 00:23:55,714 watching their daughter be assimilated, helpless to defend her. 258 00:23:55,880 --> 00:24:00,829 It's important that Icheb regenerate for six uninterrupted hours. 259 00:24:01,000 --> 00:24:03,276 - I understand. - He may resist. 260 00:24:03,440 --> 00:24:06,398 He doesn't like to waste time. 261 00:24:07,560 --> 00:24:11,713 I've had to contend with his lack of patience as well. 262 00:24:12,760 --> 00:24:16,833 Over there is a star called Kelsin III. 263 00:24:17,000 --> 00:24:19,833 To the west is the Orlitus cluster. 264 00:24:20,000 --> 00:24:24,198 There, just above it, where you connect those six stars, 265 00:24:24,360 --> 00:24:28,433 they form what we call the Great Horn. 266 00:24:30,520 --> 00:24:32,477 I see it. 267 00:24:33,520 --> 00:24:37,832 You inherited your love of the stars from your father. 268 00:24:38,000 --> 00:24:43,359 Being on that starship, you've learned more about astronomy than I have. 269 00:24:43,520 --> 00:24:47,309 Our window can't compare to Voyager's astrometrics lab. 270 00:24:47,480 --> 00:24:49,710 No. But it's nice. 271 00:24:51,400 --> 00:24:56,600 You see? We have everything we need, right here. 272 00:24:56,760 --> 00:25:01,630 A warm fire, good food that we grow ourselves, 273 00:25:01,800 --> 00:25:03,916 and people who love us. 274 00:25:04,080 --> 00:25:08,233 Icheb has people on Voyager who love him, too. 275 00:25:11,040 --> 00:25:14,670 You've grown attached to the crew, haven't you? 276 00:25:14,840 --> 00:25:18,196 They've provided for me, given me opportunities. 277 00:25:19,360 --> 00:25:23,274 They're good people. People who've experienced hardship. 278 00:25:24,720 --> 00:25:28,315 Seven of Nine told me about your science project. 279 00:25:28,480 --> 00:25:33,839 - She said it might be very useful. - It's designed to detect wormholes. 280 00:25:34,000 --> 00:25:37,914 - How will that benefit them? - It may get them back to Earth. 281 00:25:38,080 --> 00:25:40,993 Why is that so important to them? 282 00:25:43,400 --> 00:25:45,630 It's their home. 283 00:25:49,160 --> 00:25:52,596 - Interesting, isn't it? - What? 284 00:25:52,760 --> 00:25:55,991 With all their technology, 285 00:25:56,160 --> 00:25:59,471 their opportunity to explore the galaxy, 286 00:25:59,640 --> 00:26:03,520 the thing they want most is to get home. 287 00:26:11,960 --> 00:26:16,193 - Good morning. - Did you regenerate successfully? 288 00:26:16,360 --> 00:26:18,874 Yes. And I slept... 289 00:26:19,040 --> 00:26:21,236 under the stars. 290 00:26:21,400 --> 00:26:25,712 - You should try it. - You weren't in class this morning. 291 00:26:25,880 --> 00:26:28,156 The others missed you. 292 00:26:29,120 --> 00:26:31,714 I was helping my father. 293 00:26:32,960 --> 00:26:35,998 There's something we need to discuss. 294 00:26:39,320 --> 00:26:41,391 What is it? 295 00:26:44,320 --> 00:26:47,199 You've decided to stay with them. 296 00:26:48,440 --> 00:26:50,829 Yes. 297 00:26:51,000 --> 00:26:54,118 - You're certain? - This is my home. 298 00:26:54,280 --> 00:26:58,513 I have a responsibility to help them rebuild it. 299 00:26:59,560 --> 00:27:03,030 - I'll inform the captain. - Thank you. 300 00:27:05,000 --> 00:27:08,755 You'll want to say goodbye to the other children. 301 00:27:23,880 --> 00:27:26,349 Inside are padds containing data 302 00:27:26,520 --> 00:27:29,911 on subjects that will allow you to continue your studies. 303 00:27:30,080 --> 00:27:36,190 I've included a high-resolution telescope. Not a substitute for astrometric sensors. 304 00:27:36,360 --> 00:27:38,715 I will use it every day. 305 00:27:47,200 --> 00:27:52,434 - Goodbye, Icheb, and good luck. - Thank you, Captain. 306 00:27:52,600 --> 00:27:55,911 I hope you find a way home. 307 00:28:48,320 --> 00:28:52,632 Warning. Regeneration cycle incomplete. 308 00:28:56,040 --> 00:28:58,998 - What is it? - I can't regenerate. 309 00:29:01,480 --> 00:29:04,552 - Explain. - Regeneration cycle incomplete. 310 00:29:04,720 --> 00:29:07,838 I miss Icheb. 311 00:29:08,000 --> 00:29:12,949 So do I. But we'll adapt. Now return to your alcove. 312 00:29:13,120 --> 00:29:16,875 If you find my parents, will I have to go? 313 00:29:17,680 --> 00:29:20,752 We'll discuss that when and if the time comes. 314 00:29:21,920 --> 00:29:24,639 I hope you don't find them. 315 00:29:26,960 --> 00:29:28,917 Regenerate. 316 00:29:34,720 --> 00:29:37,360 - Seven? - Yes? 317 00:29:37,520 --> 00:29:40,751 What if the Borg assimilated Icheb again? 318 00:29:40,920 --> 00:29:45,039 His people lack resources. The Borg have little reason to return. 319 00:29:45,200 --> 00:29:49,273 - What if Icheb's on a ship? - Unlikely. 320 00:29:49,440 --> 00:29:52,000 He was on a ship last time. 321 00:29:52,160 --> 00:29:55,949 He was on the surface when he was assimilated. 322 00:29:56,120 --> 00:29:58,555 No. He wasn't. 323 00:29:58,720 --> 00:30:02,270 A Class-1 transport was detected in grid 649. 324 00:30:03,200 --> 00:30:05,476 One life-form. Species, Brunali. 325 00:30:18,480 --> 00:30:21,598 - This better be important. - It is. 326 00:30:21,760 --> 00:30:25,037 I don't read Borg. You'll have to translate. 327 00:30:25,200 --> 00:30:27,953 Data from where we found the children. 328 00:30:28,120 --> 00:30:32,796 It says Icheb was alone on an unarmed vessel when the Borg took him. 329 00:30:32,960 --> 00:30:35,600 Why tell me this at 0300 hours? 330 00:30:35,760 --> 00:30:40,152 Icheb's father said he was assimilated on the planet's surface. 331 00:30:40,320 --> 00:30:44,109 - Did you misunderstand? - No, he was very specific. 332 00:30:45,120 --> 00:30:48,954 That cube was disabled by a pathogen. It had extensive damage. 333 00:30:49,120 --> 00:30:52,511 - Is it possible the records are corrupt? - Perhaps. 334 00:30:52,680 --> 00:30:58,073 But Leucon said Icheb was assimilated four years ago. 335 00:30:58,240 --> 00:31:02,074 But the Borg attacked three times in the last decade. 336 00:31:02,240 --> 00:31:06,234 Nine years ago, six years ago and again last year. 337 00:31:07,440 --> 00:31:12,355 All right, let's assume your information is accurate. 338 00:31:12,520 --> 00:31:15,273 - What does it prove? - His father was lying. 339 00:31:15,440 --> 00:31:18,558 - Why would he do that? - I'm not certain. 340 00:31:18,720 --> 00:31:21,792 - But we have to find out. - What do you propose? 341 00:31:21,960 --> 00:31:25,191 That we return. Demand an explanation. 342 00:31:25,360 --> 00:31:28,398 Do we really need to interrogate them? 343 00:31:28,560 --> 00:31:32,474 We have a responsibility to ensure Icheb's safety. 344 00:31:32,640 --> 00:31:37,350 - He chose to stay with them. - He didn't have all the information. 345 00:31:37,520 --> 00:31:40,638 This doesn't mean they're unfit parents. 346 00:31:40,800 --> 00:31:42,757 At some point... 347 00:31:42,920 --> 00:31:45,275 you have to let go. 348 00:31:45,440 --> 00:31:52,039 I know you're thinking I'm having difficulty accepting my separation from Icheb. 349 00:31:52,200 --> 00:31:54,157 And you're correct. 350 00:31:54,320 --> 00:32:00,157 But if there's a possibility he's in danger, even a remote one, I must protect him. 351 00:32:00,320 --> 00:32:04,393 If I don't, I'll be no better than my own parents. 352 00:32:07,800 --> 00:32:11,111 - Couldn't we wait? - What would that accomplish? 353 00:32:11,280 --> 00:32:16,514 - He's just getting settled. - The longer we wait, the harder it'll be. 354 00:32:17,800 --> 00:32:23,591 Why do it at all? There's nothing compelling us to go through with it. 355 00:32:23,760 --> 00:32:27,958 - It's what he was born for. - Hasn't he been through enough? 356 00:32:28,120 --> 00:32:32,956 - Why not give him an ordinary life? - He's not an ordinary child. 357 00:32:33,160 --> 00:32:35,754 But he can help us. He's hardworking. 358 00:32:35,960 --> 00:32:40,511 Leucon.. His return was a gift. 359 00:32:40,680 --> 00:32:42,830 We can't waste it. 360 00:32:43,840 --> 00:32:48,596 - I don't want to lose him again. - To survive, we make sacrifices. 361 00:32:48,760 --> 00:32:50,831 You taught me that. 362 00:32:53,000 --> 00:32:55,992 We won three games in a row. 363 00:32:58,520 --> 00:33:00,477 Sit down, Icheb. 364 00:33:05,720 --> 00:33:08,109 We need to talk. 365 00:33:14,200 --> 00:33:18,751 - You know you're very important to us. - Yes. 366 00:33:22,400 --> 00:33:24,755 What you don't know is why. 367 00:33:26,160 --> 00:33:28,515 What do you mean? 368 00:33:35,840 --> 00:33:38,958 - What is that? - If you relax, it won't hurt. 369 00:33:39,120 --> 00:33:41,350 - Father? - Hold him. 370 00:33:44,200 --> 00:33:46,157 What are you doing to me? 371 00:33:46,320 --> 00:33:48,311 No! 372 00:33:55,160 --> 00:33:57,595 Prepare the launch. 373 00:34:07,080 --> 00:34:09,674 Hail them. 374 00:34:09,840 --> 00:34:15,358 - We didn't expect to see again. - We'd like to ask you a few questions. 375 00:34:15,520 --> 00:34:16,520 Questions? 376 00:34:16,640 --> 00:34:21,635 - Regarding Icheb and his assimilation. - We've already discussed that. 377 00:34:21,800 --> 00:34:24,838 Your story was inconsistent with our data. 378 00:34:25,000 --> 00:34:30,359 - We don't owe you any explanations. - In that case, I'd like to talk to Icheb. 379 00:34:30,520 --> 00:34:33,353 - He's not here. - Where is he? 380 00:34:33,520 --> 00:34:37,229 - That's not your concern. - Scan for his bio-signs. 381 00:34:40,680 --> 00:34:44,594 - He's not in the settlement. - I detect a Brunali vessel. 382 00:34:44,760 --> 00:34:50,073 Distance, nine million kilometres. It's heading for the transwarp conduit. 383 00:34:50,240 --> 00:34:54,552 - That ship is travelling at warp 9.8. - It only looks that way. 384 00:34:54,720 --> 00:34:59,749 It can emit a false warp signature, strong enough to penetrate subspace. 385 00:34:59,920 --> 00:35:04,994 - It's bait to attract the Borg. - Icheb's on that vessel, isn't he? 386 00:35:05,160 --> 00:35:09,677 - He's fighting for his people. - Alone on an unarmed transport. 387 00:35:09,840 --> 00:35:14,357 We don't have particle weapons or starships at our disposal. 388 00:35:14,520 --> 00:35:18,070 - We use the only resource we have. - Your children? 389 00:35:18,240 --> 00:35:20,959 No. Our genetic expertise. 390 00:35:21,120 --> 00:35:23,270 Icheb's not bait. 391 00:35:23,440 --> 00:35:25,397 He's a weapon. 392 00:35:25,560 --> 00:35:28,996 The first cube that captured him was infected by a pathogen. 393 00:35:29,160 --> 00:35:31,071 Icheb was the carrier. 394 00:35:31,240 --> 00:35:36,269 Every time we rebuild, make progress, the Borg take it away from us. 395 00:35:36,440 --> 00:35:39,512 - Set a course for that vessel. - Aye, Captain. 396 00:35:39,680 --> 00:35:43,469 - You can't interfere. - We're saving our civilisation. 397 00:35:43,640 --> 00:35:45,438 By taking Icheb's future. 398 00:35:45,600 --> 00:35:49,912 If we don't stop the Borg, the Brunali have no future. 399 00:35:50,080 --> 00:35:54,278 A Borg ship will emerge from that conduit at any moment. 400 00:35:54,440 --> 00:35:58,752 - You'll be destroyed. - We'll chance it. End transmission. 401 00:35:59,960 --> 00:36:02,554 Red Alert. Battle stations. 402 00:36:07,800 --> 00:36:11,316 - We're in range. - I'm picking up Icheb's lifesigns. 403 00:36:11,480 --> 00:36:14,757 - He's unconscious. - Transport him to sickbay. 404 00:36:14,920 --> 00:36:18,197 - I can't. There's interference. - It's the conduit. 405 00:36:18,360 --> 00:36:21,557 A Borg vessel should emerge in less than 40 seconds. 406 00:36:21,720 --> 00:36:25,395 Transfer auxiliary power to the transporters. 407 00:36:26,280 --> 00:36:29,272 - I can't establish a lock. - 30 seconds. 408 00:36:29,440 --> 00:36:32,751 - Tom, get us closer to that ship. - Yes, ma'am. 409 00:36:38,880 --> 00:36:41,520 - The conduit's opening. 20 seconds. - Seven? 410 00:36:41,680 --> 00:36:44,672 - Still out of range. - You heard her. 411 00:36:44,840 --> 00:36:48,913 When that Borg ship comes through, it's going to be hard getting away. 412 00:36:49,080 --> 00:36:52,072 Ten seconds. Nine... eight... 413 00:36:52,240 --> 00:36:56,552 I've got a lock. Transport in progress. He's in sickbay. 414 00:36:56,720 --> 00:36:59,075 Get us out of here! Maximum... 415 00:37:03,960 --> 00:37:06,349 Target their tractor beam generator. 416 00:37:06,520 --> 00:37:08,989 - Phasers targeted. - Fire! 417 00:37:12,640 --> 00:37:14,438 No effect. 418 00:37:14,600 --> 00:37:18,912 We are the Borg. You will be assimilated. Resistance is futile. 419 00:37:19,080 --> 00:37:21,674 There's a way to get a weapon through. 420 00:37:21,840 --> 00:37:25,196 - I'm listening. - Transfer a torpedo to the vessel. 421 00:37:25,360 --> 00:37:29,115 - Detonate it in the sphere. - That will occur in 20 seconds. 422 00:37:29,280 --> 00:37:32,955 But Voyager will be inside less than three seconds later. 423 00:37:33,120 --> 00:37:35,839 Tom, full reverse thrusters. 424 00:37:36,000 --> 00:37:37,673 Do it! 425 00:37:41,120 --> 00:37:44,636 Transport complete. Detonation in ten... nine... 426 00:37:48,640 --> 00:37:51,917 - ...five... - Tom, go to warp on my mark. 427 00:37:52,080 --> 00:37:54,196 All hands, brace for impact. 428 00:37:57,520 --> 00:37:59,033 Now! 429 00:38:02,080 --> 00:38:05,869 The Borg vessel is damaged. They are not pursuing. 430 00:38:14,800 --> 00:38:19,192 - Did his parents re-infect him? - No, they merely sedated him. 431 00:38:19,360 --> 00:38:21,317 I don't understand. 432 00:38:21,480 --> 00:38:25,678 He was genetically engineered to produce the pathogen from birth. 433 00:38:27,680 --> 00:38:31,071 - Bred to kill Borg. - Is he in danger? 434 00:38:31,240 --> 00:38:35,916 I can suppress the pathogen. He'll be fine... physically. 435 00:38:37,840 --> 00:38:40,753 He'll need help coming to terms with this. 436 00:38:41,640 --> 00:38:44,712 - Captain... - Use your maternal instincts. 437 00:38:44,880 --> 00:38:47,190 They worked before. 438 00:39:02,760 --> 00:39:05,991 I thought you were studying spatial harmonics. 439 00:39:06,160 --> 00:39:10,996 My parents suggested I might have an aptitude for genetics. 440 00:39:12,040 --> 00:39:13,997 I see. 441 00:39:19,160 --> 00:39:24,439 - What have you learned? - This is the genome of a typical Brunali. 442 00:39:25,400 --> 00:39:27,357 And this is my DNA. 443 00:39:27,520 --> 00:39:29,989 They're nearly identical. 444 00:39:30,160 --> 00:39:35,314 But do you notice the differences in the 3rd, 13th and 17th chromosomes? 445 00:39:35,480 --> 00:39:37,073 Yes. 446 00:39:37,240 --> 00:39:40,790 My parents made alterations so I'd produce the pathogen. 447 00:39:40,960 --> 00:39:42,917 Quite ingenious. 448 00:39:44,160 --> 00:39:46,151 It's also barbaric. 449 00:39:46,320 --> 00:39:52,191 They were trying to defend their way of life, preserve their species. 450 00:39:53,160 --> 00:39:57,916 I know how difficult it is to acknowledge your parents' faults, 451 00:39:58,080 --> 00:40:01,277 but what they did was wrong. 452 00:40:01,440 --> 00:40:04,193 You don't have to forgive them. 453 00:40:04,360 --> 00:40:08,194 - Will they forgive me? - For what? 454 00:40:08,360 --> 00:40:12,638 I could have destroyed that sphere. I failed them. 455 00:40:12,800 --> 00:40:16,919 - You would have been re-assimilated. - I know, but... 456 00:40:18,080 --> 00:40:22,153 - But what? - Maybe it was my destiny. 457 00:40:24,440 --> 00:40:26,397 Maybe. 458 00:40:28,560 --> 00:40:34,397 In the future you may choose to fight the Borg but you'll do it in your own way. 459 00:40:34,560 --> 00:40:36,915 You're an individual. 460 00:40:37,080 --> 00:40:41,677 And you have the right to determine your own destiny. 461 00:40:43,360 --> 00:40:45,874 It's time to regenerate. 462 00:40:50,880 --> 00:40:54,635 And if I prefer to continue studying? 463 00:40:57,680 --> 00:41:00,672 It's your decision.