1 00:00:04,000 --> 00:00:07,516 We are the Borg. Existence as you know it is over. 2 00:00:07,680 --> 00:00:12,197 We will add your biological and technological distinctiveness to ours. 3 00:00:12,360 --> 00:00:14,317 Resistance is... 4 00:02:03,120 --> 00:02:07,114 The Cardinal is a thief. 5 00:02:07,280 --> 00:02:10,193 I delivered two portraits of his nephew 6 00:02:10,360 --> 00:02:12,317 more than three months ago, 7 00:02:12,480 --> 00:02:14,437 to be depicted in the heroic mode 8 00:02:14,600 --> 00:02:17,069 of an Hercules or an Achilles, 9 00:02:17,240 --> 00:02:19,197 so specified our contract. 10 00:02:19,360 --> 00:02:24,116 I complied, making that young fool of a nephew look far more heroic 11 00:02:24,280 --> 00:02:26,237 than nature ever intended. 12 00:02:26,400 --> 00:02:32,157 An act on my part greater than anything accomplished by Hercules or Achilles. 13 00:02:32,320 --> 00:02:34,277 And what have I, Leonardo da Vinci, 14 00:02:34,440 --> 00:02:36,113 received in payment? 15 00:02:36,280 --> 00:02:40,717 - The Cardinal's eternal gratitude? - Esatto! 16 00:02:40,880 --> 00:02:43,872 In other words, less than nothing. 17 00:02:44,040 --> 00:02:45,997 All the more reason why you 18 00:02:46,160 --> 00:02:48,117 should accept my proposal. 19 00:02:48,280 --> 00:02:51,477 The money is beside the point. Catarina, is it? 20 00:02:51,640 --> 00:02:54,439 I'm only asking for a corner, one bench, 21 00:02:54,600 --> 00:02:59,117 a place to work on my own projects, paintings, sculptures. 22 00:02:59,280 --> 00:03:02,193 Just being in your company is inspiring. 23 00:03:02,360 --> 00:03:05,796 Flattery, Catarina, is also beside the point. 24 00:03:05,960 --> 00:03:10,079 Besides, I prefer my solitude. 25 00:03:15,480 --> 00:03:19,075 - What will you call it? - The Arm Of Hephaestus. 26 00:03:19,240 --> 00:03:21,197 The god of the forge. 27 00:03:21,360 --> 00:03:25,957 Every blacksmith who has swung a hammer will thank me for this creation. 28 00:03:26,120 --> 00:03:31,513 Someone once said, "All invention is but an extension of the body of man." 29 00:03:33,000 --> 00:03:37,358 Do not think that just because I have enjoyed your visit today 30 00:03:37,520 --> 00:03:41,798 that I am prepared to turn my workshop into a traveller's inn. 31 00:03:44,360 --> 00:03:48,433 - Here, let me help you. - You will get covered in goose grease. 32 00:03:48,600 --> 00:03:50,557 It's good for the skin. 33 00:03:51,920 --> 00:03:57,199 Let's see if we can find his big brother. Hopefully, he'll be stronger. 34 00:04:10,640 --> 00:04:12,597 Is this a flying machine? 35 00:04:12,760 --> 00:04:15,673 I thought my imagination takes flight easily, 36 00:04:15,840 --> 00:04:18,434 so my body can do the same. I was wrong. 37 00:04:20,400 --> 00:04:23,711 It's this flapping approach. 38 00:04:23,880 --> 00:04:28,954 You designed your machine to mimic the way a bat or a sparrow flies. 39 00:04:29,120 --> 00:04:31,714 - So? - So what if you based it... 40 00:04:33,760 --> 00:04:35,751 ...on the hawk instead? 41 00:04:37,720 --> 00:04:40,234 The hawk. 42 00:04:40,400 --> 00:04:44,189 A creature that glides through the air. 43 00:04:50,160 --> 00:04:55,234 We will design a new machine. And you, Catarina, will help me fly it. 44 00:04:55,400 --> 00:04:58,518 - I'll need someplace to work. - A corner? 45 00:04:58,680 --> 00:05:01,274 - One workbench? - That would be fine. 46 00:05:01,440 --> 00:05:04,558 Ten scudi a week and provide your own materials. 47 00:05:04,720 --> 00:05:08,759 Seven. And I might need to borrow a few things, on occasion. 48 00:05:08,920 --> 00:05:12,311 - Then we have an agreement. - Chakotay to Janeway. 49 00:05:12,480 --> 00:05:14,437 We need you in engineering. 50 00:05:14,600 --> 00:05:17,353 - There's something you should see. - On my way. 51 00:05:18,320 --> 00:05:20,277 Computer, end program. 52 00:05:22,120 --> 00:05:24,077 - What is it? - Bad news. 53 00:05:24,240 --> 00:05:26,834 The probe we sent out stopped transmitting. 54 00:05:27,000 --> 00:05:29,594 I thought it was the communications grid, 55 00:05:29,760 --> 00:05:33,355 then I cleared up the telemetry. Take a look at this. 56 00:05:40,680 --> 00:05:44,514 This could be it, Captain. Borg space. 57 00:05:45,760 --> 00:05:48,718 We don't know how many vessels are out there, 58 00:05:48,880 --> 00:05:51,190 but their space appears to be vast. 59 00:05:51,360 --> 00:05:54,796 It includes thousands of solar systems, all Borg. 60 00:05:54,960 --> 00:05:57,998 We are entering the heart of their territory. 61 00:05:58,160 --> 00:06:02,438 There's no going around it, but there may be a way through it. 62 00:06:04,960 --> 00:06:07,076 Before the probe was disabled, 63 00:06:07,240 --> 00:06:11,313 it picked up a narrow corridor of space devoid of Borg activity. 64 00:06:11,480 --> 00:06:13,790 We called it the Northwest Passage. 65 00:06:13,960 --> 00:06:17,510 But it is filled with gravimetric distortions, 66 00:06:17,680 --> 00:06:19,990 caused by quantum singularities. 67 00:06:20,160 --> 00:06:22,959 Better to ride the rapids than face the hive. 68 00:06:23,120 --> 00:06:28,877 We'll set a course for it and go into Tactical Alert. What about weapons? 69 00:06:29,040 --> 00:06:32,158 Phaser banks are reprogrammed to a rotating modulation. 70 00:06:32,320 --> 00:06:36,359 - But the Borg will adapt quickly. - We can use every edge. Ensign? 71 00:06:36,520 --> 00:06:41,356 The sensors will scan for transwarp signatures. An early warning system. 72 00:06:41,520 --> 00:06:44,273 Good work. Doctor, how is the medical front? 73 00:06:44,440 --> 00:06:48,513 I've analysed the Borg corpse we recovered three months ago. 74 00:06:48,680 --> 00:06:52,150 I'm close to understanding their assimilation technology 75 00:06:52,320 --> 00:06:54,675 and I may be able to create a medical defence. 76 00:06:54,840 --> 00:06:57,400 Redouble your efforts. Top priority. 77 00:06:57,560 --> 00:07:00,712 Neelix, can we resupply the ship any time soon? 78 00:07:00,880 --> 00:07:04,794 No problem. I plan to extend our food and replicator rations. 79 00:07:04,960 --> 00:07:10,353 We have to act fast. The Borg have captured one of our probes. 80 00:07:10,520 --> 00:07:15,754 They know we're out here. We'll do all we can to avoid a direct confrontation, 81 00:07:15,920 --> 00:07:20,437 but if and when we do engage the Borg, I'm confident we'll be ready. 82 00:07:21,640 --> 00:07:24,792 I have faith in each and every one of you. 83 00:07:26,320 --> 00:07:28,630 Let's do it. 84 00:07:33,880 --> 00:07:36,190 Ensign, on the double! 85 00:07:37,840 --> 00:07:39,797 Coming through. 86 00:07:46,720 --> 00:07:49,439 Cut down the time taken to seal off the decks. 87 00:07:49,600 --> 00:07:54,117 - In case we take on uninvited guests? - Increase force field magnitudes. 88 00:07:55,840 --> 00:08:00,960 These injection tubules are the first step in their assimilation process. 89 00:08:01,120 --> 00:08:04,431 They release nanoprobes into the bloodstream. 90 00:08:04,600 --> 00:08:07,752 Maybe we can develop a protective shielding. 91 00:08:07,920 --> 00:08:13,393 Unlikely. The tubules can penetrate any known alloy or energy field. 92 00:08:13,560 --> 00:08:17,155 Which means our battle must be waged inside the body. 93 00:08:19,920 --> 00:08:25,154 The first tissue attacked is the victim's blood. Assimilation is instantaneous. 94 00:08:25,320 --> 00:08:28,199 They take over blood cell functions, like a virus. 95 00:08:28,360 --> 00:08:31,352 We should try to enhance the immune system, 96 00:08:31,520 --> 00:08:34,638 to create an assimilation antibody. 97 00:08:34,800 --> 00:08:37,633 I doubt we can destroy the nanoprobes, 98 00:08:37,800 --> 00:08:40,314 but we may be able to slow them down. 99 00:08:41,360 --> 00:08:44,637 Let's try a submicron dissection on the probes, 100 00:08:44,800 --> 00:08:48,350 see if we can discover the assimilation mechanism. 101 00:08:55,160 --> 00:08:57,310 Kes, is something wrong? 102 00:08:58,360 --> 00:09:00,317 Kes? 103 00:09:00,480 --> 00:09:05,270 - I saw Borg. - You've had a telepathic experience? 104 00:09:05,440 --> 00:09:09,274 There were bodies, dozens of them dead. 105 00:09:19,000 --> 00:09:21,879 - How's Kes? - Unsettled and uncertain. 106 00:09:22,040 --> 00:09:25,351 She has experienced several telepathic visions 107 00:09:25,520 --> 00:09:28,876 about the death of Borg and Voyager's destruction. 108 00:09:29,040 --> 00:09:31,554 - Premonitions? - Possibly. 109 00:09:31,720 --> 00:09:36,510 We can't just ignore her intuition, but I see no reason to alter our plan. 110 00:09:36,680 --> 00:09:38,637 I want you to keep an eye on... 111 00:09:38,800 --> 00:09:41,713 Sensors are picking up transwarp signatures, 112 00:09:41,880 --> 00:09:44,759 5.8 light years distant, closing from behind. 113 00:09:44,920 --> 00:09:47,309 - Red Alert. - Evasive manoeuvres. 114 00:09:50,560 --> 00:09:53,473 - What's happening? - We dropped out of warp. 115 00:09:53,640 --> 00:09:56,871 - Engineering, what's going on? - I'm not sure. 116 00:09:57,040 --> 00:10:00,749 Subspace turbulence is preventing us from creating a warp field. 117 00:10:00,920 --> 00:10:03,992 - Turbulence increasing. - Two Borg vessels. 118 00:10:04,160 --> 00:10:06,310 Make that three. 119 00:10:06,480 --> 00:10:09,438 Four. No, five. 120 00:10:11,320 --> 00:10:15,757 Fifteen Borg vessels. Distance, 2.1 light years and closing. 121 00:10:15,920 --> 00:10:18,150 Shields to maximum. Stand by all weapons. 122 00:10:18,320 --> 00:10:20,834 - They're in visual range. - On screen. 123 00:10:24,800 --> 00:10:26,279 My God! 124 00:10:36,680 --> 00:10:38,876 Captain. 125 00:10:39,920 --> 00:10:43,356 I'm picking up a polaron beam. We're being scanned. 126 00:10:48,240 --> 00:10:50,197 Think good thoughts. 127 00:10:54,040 --> 00:10:57,158 The last cube has rejoined the others. 128 00:11:05,360 --> 00:11:08,478 - Did we sustain any damage? - No. Shields held. 129 00:11:08,640 --> 00:11:12,315 Warp engines on-line. All primary systems are stable. 130 00:11:12,480 --> 00:11:18,476 Stand down Red Alert. Harry, maintain a sensor lock on that Borg armada. 131 00:11:18,640 --> 00:11:23,430 They seemed to be in quite a hurry. I'd like to know what they're up to. 132 00:11:23,600 --> 00:11:28,390 I'll take this near miss as a good omen. Resume our course, Mr Paris. 133 00:11:28,560 --> 00:11:32,235 If we needed evidence we entered Borg space, we just got it. 134 00:11:32,400 --> 00:11:34,357 I'll be in my Ready Room. 135 00:11:48,680 --> 00:11:51,194 Yes, come in. 136 00:11:52,320 --> 00:11:55,756 We completed the latest sensor sweep. So far, so good. 137 00:11:55,920 --> 00:12:00,278 - The passage is clear of Borg activity. - I want to see a tactical update. 138 00:12:02,320 --> 00:12:08,589 By my calculation, we haven't eaten since last night. Join me for dinner? 139 00:12:08,760 --> 00:12:11,673 I'm not hungry. I've got a lot of work to do. 140 00:12:12,560 --> 00:12:13,914 I see. 141 00:12:14,080 --> 00:12:18,870 I've been looking through log entries of captains who encountered the Borg. 142 00:12:19,040 --> 00:12:23,113 I've gone over every engagement, from when Q flung the Enterprise 143 00:12:23,280 --> 00:12:27,353 into the path of that first cube to the massacre at Wolf 359. 144 00:12:27,520 --> 00:12:31,798 Every battle, anything that might give me an insight into them. 145 00:12:32,520 --> 00:12:35,956 - And? - In the words of Jean-Luc Picard... 146 00:12:37,000 --> 00:12:41,790 "In their collective state, the Borg are utterly without mercy, 147 00:12:41,960 --> 00:12:45,794 "driven by one will alone, the will to conquer. 148 00:12:45,960 --> 00:12:50,033 "They are beyond redemption, beyond reason." 149 00:12:50,200 --> 00:12:54,239 And then there's Captain Amasov of the Endeavour. 150 00:12:54,400 --> 00:13:00,271 "The Borg are as close to pure evil as any race we've ever encountered.” 151 00:13:00,440 --> 00:13:02,909 - What's so funny? - Nothing. 152 00:13:03,080 --> 00:13:06,198 You're smiling. I've said something amusing. 153 00:13:06,360 --> 00:13:09,000 - You sounded just like Amasov. - What? 154 00:13:09,160 --> 00:13:12,471 While you read his log, you used his inflections. 155 00:13:12,640 --> 00:13:16,395 - I did not. - Before that, you did a good Picard. 156 00:13:16,560 --> 00:13:20,190 - Did I? - It's nothing to be ashamed about. 157 00:13:20,360 --> 00:13:24,877 Echoing the Greats. Ensign Hickman does a passable Janeway. 158 00:13:26,880 --> 00:13:30,635 If we survive the next few days, I'll have a chat with him. 159 00:13:30,800 --> 00:13:36,591 Imitating the Captain? Surely that violates some kind of Starfleet protocol. 160 00:13:41,480 --> 00:13:43,676 This day was inevitable. 161 00:13:43,840 --> 00:13:49,233 We all knew it and we've all tried to prepare for the challenge ahead. 162 00:13:52,000 --> 00:13:54,753 But at what point is the risk too great? 163 00:13:55,920 --> 00:13:59,629 At what point do we retreat to friendly territory? 164 00:13:59,800 --> 00:14:03,873 Could the crew accept living in the Delta Quadrant? 165 00:14:04,040 --> 00:14:07,749 I keep looking to all these captains, my comrades in arms. 166 00:14:08,720 --> 00:14:11,439 But the truth is I'm alone. 167 00:14:11,600 --> 00:14:15,673 If that moment comes, we'll face it together. 168 00:14:15,840 --> 00:14:17,956 And we'll make the right decision. 169 00:14:18,800 --> 00:14:20,950 You're not alone, Kathryn. 170 00:14:23,320 --> 00:14:26,756 Three years ago, I didn't even know your name. 171 00:14:26,920 --> 00:14:29,673 Today I can't imagine a day without you. 172 00:14:29,840 --> 00:14:32,354 Captain Janeway to the bridge. 173 00:14:38,120 --> 00:14:41,078 - Gentlemen. - Something odd is going on. 174 00:14:41,240 --> 00:14:43,470 Borg power signatures have terminated. 175 00:14:43,640 --> 00:14:45,677 - All of them? - Dead in the water. 176 00:14:45,840 --> 00:14:47,831 - 5.2 light years away. - Cause? 177 00:14:48,000 --> 00:14:49,752 Unknown. 178 00:14:50,800 --> 00:14:53,110 - Mr Paris. - Captain? 179 00:14:54,320 --> 00:14:57,517 Set a course for their position. Warp two. 180 00:15:02,720 --> 00:15:07,317 - We're approaching the ships. - Slow to impulse. On screen. 181 00:15:14,120 --> 00:15:18,478 - Lifesigns? - A few, but they're erratic. 182 00:15:18,640 --> 00:15:23,237 I'm detecting two residual weapons signatures in the debris. 183 00:15:24,360 --> 00:15:28,194 One is Borg, the other is of unknown origin. 184 00:15:28,360 --> 00:15:30,556 Who could do this to the Borg? 185 00:15:41,440 --> 00:15:45,115 Someone more powerful than the Borg? Hard to imagine. 186 00:15:45,280 --> 00:15:47,590 But they did it. Fifteen Cubes. 187 00:15:47,760 --> 00:15:52,197 We might have just found our ticket through Borg space, an ally. 188 00:15:52,360 --> 00:15:56,593 Let's not jump to conclusions. Scan the vicinity for vessels. 189 00:15:57,680 --> 00:16:01,674 - There are none. - Hold on. I'm picking up bio-readings. 190 00:16:01,840 --> 00:16:04,639 They're coming from the hull of a Borg ship. 191 00:16:04,800 --> 00:16:06,757 Let's see it. 192 00:16:08,960 --> 00:16:11,270 Magnify, Mr Kim. 193 00:16:12,280 --> 00:16:15,432 It's organic, but our sensors can't penetrate it. 194 00:16:15,600 --> 00:16:19,150 - Send a standard greeting. - No response. 195 00:16:19,320 --> 00:16:22,756 Is it a space-dwelling organism or biological weapon? 196 00:16:22,920 --> 00:16:27,710 What weapon could destroy the Borg? Can we beam it away from the ship? 197 00:16:27,880 --> 00:16:31,510 - I can't get a lock on it. - Tractor beam? 198 00:16:31,680 --> 00:16:33,637 No effect. 199 00:16:33,800 --> 00:16:37,156 Whatever it is, it's impervious to our technology. 200 00:16:37,320 --> 00:16:42,110 Tuvok, are you reading an atmosphere in the cube? 201 00:16:42,280 --> 00:16:43,839 Affirmative. 202 00:16:44,000 --> 00:16:45,957 Commander Chakotay. 203 00:16:48,280 --> 00:16:52,433 I want you to take an away team inside. Get a scan of the biomass. 204 00:16:52,600 --> 00:16:55,353 There are unstable Borg lifesigns. 205 00:16:55,520 --> 00:17:00,754 We'll keep an active transporter lock and pull you out at any sign of trouble. 206 00:17:02,560 --> 00:17:04,676 Tuvok, Harry, you're with me. 207 00:17:35,840 --> 00:17:37,797 This way. 208 00:17:52,240 --> 00:17:57,110 Lower your phasers. If we don't appear threatening, they should ignore us. 209 00:17:57,280 --> 00:18:00,398 Looks like they're a little preoccupied. 210 00:18:28,560 --> 00:18:32,633 The alien bio-readings are getting stronger. We're close. 211 00:18:43,680 --> 00:18:45,637 Commander. 212 00:18:50,800 --> 00:18:53,679 - Curious. - That's not the word I had in mind. 213 00:18:53,840 --> 00:18:57,720 Those bodies are reminiscent of one of Kes's premonitions. 214 00:18:57,880 --> 00:19:00,679 Didn't Kes say we were all going to die? 215 00:19:02,920 --> 00:19:04,877 Let's keep moving. 216 00:19:34,680 --> 00:19:39,197 It looks like the biomass dissolved through the Borg hull. 217 00:19:39,360 --> 00:19:42,478 This Borg is trying to assimilate it. 218 00:19:42,640 --> 00:19:45,314 Doesn't look like he's having much luck. 219 00:19:48,960 --> 00:19:50,917 A chamber is beyond here, 220 00:19:51,080 --> 00:19:55,278 40 metres wide, high concentrations of antimatter particles. 221 00:19:55,440 --> 00:19:58,910 - It looks like a warp propulsion system. - It's a ship? 222 00:19:59,080 --> 00:20:03,472 Some species use organic-based vessels. The Breen, for example. 223 00:20:03,640 --> 00:20:07,190 There doesn't seem to be anybody inside. 224 00:20:07,360 --> 00:20:10,478 - Chakotay to Voyager. - Go ahead, Commander. 225 00:20:10,640 --> 00:20:13,758 We've found an entrance to the biomass. 226 00:20:13,920 --> 00:20:17,117 We think it is a ship. Permission to go inside? 227 00:20:17,280 --> 00:20:21,513 - Granted. - Harry, that's a Borg distribution node. 228 00:20:21,680 --> 00:20:26,595 Download their tactical database. It might have a record of what happened. 229 00:20:26,760 --> 00:20:28,717 Tuvok. 230 00:21:00,280 --> 00:21:04,558 They seem to be organic conduits, carrying electrodynamic fluid. 231 00:21:04,720 --> 00:21:07,838 - Maybe an energy source. - Maybe. 232 00:21:09,920 --> 00:21:13,709 This looks like a binary matrix, laced with neuropeptides. 233 00:21:13,880 --> 00:21:15,871 Could be their computer core. 234 00:21:52,960 --> 00:21:56,078 This damage was caused by a Borg disruptor beam. 235 00:21:56,240 --> 00:21:59,119 The wall appears to be regenerating itself. 236 00:22:07,800 --> 00:22:09,757 Commander. 237 00:22:37,400 --> 00:22:39,357 - Kes? - Harry's in danger. 238 00:22:39,520 --> 00:22:42,034 - Get them out! - Sickbay to Janeway. 239 00:22:42,200 --> 00:22:44,157 Commander! 240 00:22:48,560 --> 00:22:51,757 There's something in here and it's not the Borg. 241 00:22:51,920 --> 00:22:55,993 - It's within 20 meters. - Perhaps the pilot has returned. 242 00:22:56,160 --> 00:22:58,754 - Voyager to away team. - Go ahead. 243 00:22:58,920 --> 00:23:01,878 Stand by for transport. We're getting you out. 244 00:23:02,040 --> 00:23:04,475 - Good idea. - Energise. 245 00:23:04,640 --> 00:23:06,950 - I can't get a lock. - What is it? 246 00:23:07,120 --> 00:23:09,919 Bioelectric interference from something. 247 00:23:12,200 --> 00:23:14,919 It's within seven metres. Let's get out. 248 00:23:17,160 --> 00:23:21,438 - Narrow the confinement beam. - No effect. 249 00:23:21,600 --> 00:23:24,319 - I'm going to try a skeletal lock. - A what? 250 00:23:24,480 --> 00:23:27,677 I can get a lock on minerals in their bone tissue. 251 00:23:27,840 --> 00:23:29,956 I just came up with it. 252 00:23:43,840 --> 00:23:47,151 - It's five metres away and closing. - From where? 253 00:23:59,200 --> 00:24:01,157 I've got them. 254 00:24:01,320 --> 00:24:06,349 A skeletal lock? We'll have to add that one to the transporter manual. 255 00:24:06,520 --> 00:24:11,435 Captain, the bio-ship is powering up, like it's charging a weapon. 256 00:24:14,480 --> 00:24:17,393 Mr Paris, get us out of here. Maximum warp. 257 00:24:43,400 --> 00:24:45,596 The alien ship is not pursuing. 258 00:24:49,120 --> 00:24:52,238 - Kes? - I could hear its thoughts. 259 00:24:52,400 --> 00:24:56,473 The pilot of the bio-ship was trying to communicate with me. 260 00:24:57,520 --> 00:25:02,549 They're telepathic. I've been aware of the premonitions for some time. 261 00:25:02,720 --> 00:25:06,475 It's not the Borg we should be worried about, it's them. 262 00:25:06,640 --> 00:25:08,950 What did it say to you? 263 00:25:09,120 --> 00:25:11,077 It said... 264 00:25:12,800 --> 00:25:16,031 ..."The weak will perish". 265 00:25:25,320 --> 00:25:28,631 Captain's log, stardate 50984.3. 266 00:25:28,800 --> 00:25:32,350 It's been 12 hours since our confrontation with the life-form. 267 00:25:33,400 --> 00:25:38,554 We're not being pursued and we've had no further encounters with the Borg. 268 00:25:38,720 --> 00:25:40,870 I've decided to hold our course. 269 00:25:41,040 --> 00:25:44,476 The passage is only a day away and I won't allow fear 270 00:25:44,640 --> 00:25:49,669 to undermine this crew's sense of purpose, even if that fear is justified. 271 00:25:55,080 --> 00:25:56,991 The infection is spreading. 272 00:25:57,160 --> 00:26:00,516 What began with a few cells contaminating the wound 273 00:26:00,680 --> 00:26:02,910 is now infusing every bodily system. 274 00:26:03,080 --> 00:26:05,799 It looks like he's being transformed. 275 00:26:05,960 --> 00:26:11,433 Not exactly. The alien cells are consuming his body from the inside out. 276 00:26:11,600 --> 00:26:15,150 In essence, Mr Kim is being eaten alive. 277 00:26:16,200 --> 00:26:19,079 - He's conscious. - I gave him a sedative. 278 00:26:19,240 --> 00:26:24,269 But it was rejected. Every treatment I've tried has been neutralised. 279 00:26:29,880 --> 00:26:31,837 These are alien cells. 280 00:26:32,880 --> 00:26:36,635 Each one contains more than 100 times the DNA of a human cell. 281 00:26:36,800 --> 00:26:42,034 The most densely coded life-form I've seen. I would need years to decipher it. 282 00:26:42,200 --> 00:26:45,795 They have an extraordinary immune response. 283 00:26:45,960 --> 00:26:49,078 Anything that penetrates the cell membrane, 284 00:26:49,240 --> 00:26:52,790 chemical, biological, technological. 285 00:26:54,800 --> 00:26:59,397 It's instantly destroyed. That's why the Borg can't assimilate them. 286 00:26:59,560 --> 00:27:03,394 Resistance in this case is far from futile. 287 00:27:03,560 --> 00:27:08,350 Nevertheless, I believe Borg technology holds the key to saving Mr Kim. 288 00:27:08,520 --> 00:27:11,990 - How so? - I hope to unleash an army 289 00:27:12,160 --> 00:27:16,597 of Borg nanoprobes into his bloodstream to eradicate the infection. 290 00:27:17,720 --> 00:27:22,476 I've been analysing the nanoprobes. They're efficient assimilators. 291 00:27:22,640 --> 00:27:27,999 I admire the workmanship. But they're no match for the alien cells. 292 00:27:28,160 --> 00:27:34,554 I dissected a nanoprobe and managed to access its re-coding mechanism. 293 00:27:34,720 --> 00:27:40,033 I programmed it to emit electrochemical signatures the same as the alien cells. 294 00:27:40,200 --> 00:27:45,070 The probe can do its work without being detected. Observe. 295 00:27:45,240 --> 00:27:49,199 The alien cells are oblivious to the probe until it's too late. 296 00:27:49,360 --> 00:27:52,273 But I've only created a few prototypes. 297 00:27:53,560 --> 00:27:58,077 I'll need several days to modify enough nanoprobes to cure Ensign Kim. 298 00:27:58,240 --> 00:28:02,120 - Does Harry have several days? - I wish I knew. 299 00:28:10,760 --> 00:28:15,357 Fight it, Harry. That's an order. 300 00:28:18,720 --> 00:28:21,599 We analysed the Borg's tactical database. 301 00:28:21,760 --> 00:28:24,912 They refer to these new aliens as Species 8472. 302 00:28:25,080 --> 00:28:28,835 Over five months, the Borg have been attacked 12 times. 303 00:28:29,000 --> 00:28:33,597 - They were defeated swiftly. - They have very little information. 304 00:28:33,760 --> 00:28:37,355 Is anything known about where they come from? 305 00:28:37,520 --> 00:28:39,477 I'm afraid so. 306 00:28:42,280 --> 00:28:44,237 Get the captain. 307 00:28:46,160 --> 00:28:48,356 The Northwest Passage. 308 00:28:48,520 --> 00:28:53,594 - It's clear of Borg activity for a reason. - I'm detecting 133 bio-ships. 309 00:28:53,760 --> 00:28:56,274 - More are approaching. - From where? 310 00:28:56,440 --> 00:28:59,034 They are coming from a quantum singularity. 311 00:28:59,200 --> 00:29:02,716 - Localising gravimetric distortions. - On screen. 312 00:29:08,480 --> 00:29:12,553 - Kes, anything? - Yes, I can hear them. 313 00:29:16,760 --> 00:29:19,878 They're in a place where they're all alone. 314 00:29:20,040 --> 00:29:23,158 - A parallel universe? - I don't know. 315 00:29:24,560 --> 00:29:27,473 I feel malevolence, a cold hatred. 316 00:29:28,520 --> 00:29:33,037 "The weak will perish." ” It's an invasion. 317 00:29:34,120 --> 00:29:38,717 - They intend to destroy everything. - Reverse course, maximum warp. 318 00:29:38,880 --> 00:29:42,555 Five light years out. Hold position. Maintain Red Alert. 319 00:29:43,520 --> 00:29:45,238 Commander. 320 00:29:53,360 --> 00:29:56,796 That moment we spoke about, it's here. Any thoughts? 321 00:29:56,960 --> 00:29:59,839 Flying into that corridor would mean death. 322 00:30:00,000 --> 00:30:03,755 Agreed. The Northwest Passage is no longer an option. 323 00:30:03,920 --> 00:30:08,756 So now the choice is between facing the Borg, or finding a nice planet 324 00:30:08,920 --> 00:30:12,470 in the Delta Quadrant and giving up on ever getting home. 325 00:30:12,640 --> 00:30:17,271 We wouldn't be giving up. We may find another way home. 326 00:30:19,640 --> 00:30:24,111 I'm not ready to tell the crew we're quitting. Not yet. 327 00:30:24,280 --> 00:30:30,674 - There must be an alternative. - You haven't slept in two days. 328 00:30:30,840 --> 00:30:33,832 Try getting some rest and clearing your head. 329 00:30:34,000 --> 00:30:39,029 We're safe for the moment. We can tell the crew tomorrow if we have to. 330 00:30:39,200 --> 00:30:41,157 See you in the morning. 331 00:31:07,640 --> 00:31:09,597 Maestro? 332 00:31:13,480 --> 00:31:15,437 Leonardo? 333 00:31:21,120 --> 00:31:25,751 - Am I disturbing you? - What do you see? 334 00:31:27,000 --> 00:31:29,879 A wall with candlelight reflecting on it. 335 00:31:31,280 --> 00:31:33,430 Why? What do you see? 336 00:31:34,440 --> 00:31:36,750 A flock of starlings, 337 00:31:36,920 --> 00:31:43,553 the leaves of an oak, a horse's tail, a thief with a noose around his neck... 338 00:31:46,960 --> 00:31:51,989 ...and a wall with the candlelight reflecting on it. 339 00:31:54,400 --> 00:32:01,113 There are times, Catarina, when I am transfixed by a shadow on the wall, 340 00:32:01,280 --> 00:32:04,079 or the splashing of water against a stone. 341 00:32:04,240 --> 00:32:07,756 I stare at it, the hours pass, 342 00:32:07,920 --> 00:32:11,595 the world around me drops away, 343 00:32:11,760 --> 00:32:15,196 replaced by worlds being created 344 00:32:15,360 --> 00:32:19,831 and destroyed by my imagination. 345 00:32:21,360 --> 00:32:24,478 A way to focus the mind. 346 00:32:24,640 --> 00:32:28,349 Sit and tell me why you have come. 347 00:32:36,200 --> 00:32:41,115 There's a path before me, the only way home. 348 00:32:41,280 --> 00:32:46,639 And on either side, mortal enemies bent on destroying each other. 349 00:32:46,800 --> 00:32:51,351 If I attempt to pass through them, I'll be destroyed as well. 350 00:32:51,520 --> 00:32:57,471 But if I turn around, that would end all hope of ever getting home. 351 00:32:58,520 --> 00:33:03,640 And no matter how much I try to focus my mind, I can't see an alternative. 352 00:33:04,960 --> 00:33:10,717 When one's imagination cannot provide an answer, 353 00:33:10,880 --> 00:33:13,952 one must seek out a greater imagination. 354 00:33:15,320 --> 00:33:20,030 There are times when even I find myself kneeling in prayer. 355 00:33:21,080 --> 00:33:25,278 I must deliver a bronzetto to the monks at Santa Croce. 356 00:33:25,440 --> 00:33:27,590 Come with me, Catarina. 357 00:33:29,280 --> 00:33:34,195 We will wake the Abbot, visit the chapel and appeal to God. 358 00:33:34,360 --> 00:33:37,910 Somehow, I don't think that's going to work for me. 359 00:33:46,640 --> 00:33:50,520 But there is an alternative I hadn't considered. 360 00:33:52,240 --> 00:33:55,358 What if I made an appeal... 361 00:33:56,720 --> 00:33:59,030 ...to the devil? 362 00:34:03,240 --> 00:34:08,030 - An alliance with the Borg? - More like an exchange. 363 00:34:08,200 --> 00:34:12,159 We offer them a way to defeat their new enemy and, in return, 364 00:34:12,320 --> 00:34:14,994 we get safe passage through their space. 365 00:34:15,160 --> 00:34:20,360 In developing a treatment for Harry, the doctor found a way to attack the aliens. 366 00:34:20,520 --> 00:34:24,195 It's still experimental. I've only made a few prototypes. 367 00:34:24,360 --> 00:34:27,557 If we teach the Borg how to modify their nanoprobes, 368 00:34:27,720 --> 00:34:30,519 they can create a weapon to fight the aliens. 369 00:34:30,680 --> 00:34:32,796 In theory, yes. 370 00:34:32,960 --> 00:34:35,110 It's clear from the Borg database 371 00:34:35,280 --> 00:34:38,716 that they know practically nothing about Species 8472. 372 00:34:38,880 --> 00:34:43,033 What they can't assimilate, they can't understand. 373 00:34:43,200 --> 00:34:49,151 But we don't assimilate. We investigate. In this case, that's given us an edge. 374 00:34:49,320 --> 00:34:52,073 We've discovered something they need. 375 00:34:52,240 --> 00:34:55,358 But the Borg aren't known for their diplomacy. 376 00:34:55,520 --> 00:34:57,909 How can we expect them to cooperate? 377 00:34:58,080 --> 00:35:03,280 If what I've learned from the aliens is true, the Borg are losing this conflict. 378 00:35:03,440 --> 00:35:06,114 The Borg are no different than we are. 379 00:35:06,280 --> 00:35:11,832 They're trying to survive. They won't refuse an offer that will help them. 380 00:35:12,000 --> 00:35:16,915 Won't the Borg attempt to take the information by assimilating Voyager? 381 00:35:17,080 --> 00:35:19,594 That won't get them anywhere. 382 00:35:19,760 --> 00:35:24,118 You're the only one with knowledge of the nanoprobe modifications. 383 00:35:24,280 --> 00:35:28,160 Transfer all that research into your holo-matrix. 384 00:35:28,320 --> 00:35:30,277 You're my guarantee. 385 00:35:30,440 --> 00:35:36,436 If the Borg threaten us, we'll erase your program. But it won't come to that. 386 00:35:36,600 --> 00:35:40,798 It's in the collective's interest to cooperate. 387 00:35:40,960 --> 00:35:43,110 Voyager is only one ship. 388 00:35:43,280 --> 00:35:47,433 Our safe passage is a small price to pay for what we're offering. 389 00:35:49,760 --> 00:35:52,434 - Assist the Doctor. - Aye, Captain. 390 00:35:52,600 --> 00:35:57,674 Mr Paris, locate the nearest Borg vessel and lay in a course. 391 00:35:57,840 --> 00:36:01,435 - They shouldn't be difficult to find. - Yes, ma'am. 392 00:36:02,760 --> 00:36:04,114 Dismissed. 393 00:36:10,800 --> 00:36:12,871 You were awfully quiet. 394 00:36:14,120 --> 00:36:18,910 I didn't want the others to hear this, but I think this is too great a risk. 395 00:36:19,080 --> 00:36:21,037 How so? 396 00:36:21,200 --> 00:36:26,673 There's a story I heard as a child, a parable, and I never forgot it. 397 00:36:26,840 --> 00:36:32,233 A scorpion was walking by a river bank, wondering how to get to the other side. 398 00:36:32,400 --> 00:36:34,357 Suddenly, he saw a fox. 399 00:36:34,520 --> 00:36:38,593 He asked the fox to take him on his back across the river. 400 00:36:38,760 --> 00:36:45,154 The fox said, "No. If I do that, you'll sting me and I'll drown." 401 00:36:46,760 --> 00:36:51,038 The scorpion assured him, "If I did that, we'd both drown." 402 00:36:51,200 --> 00:36:55,319 So the fox thought about it and finally agreed. 403 00:36:55,480 --> 00:37:00,509 So the scorpion climbed up on his back and the fox began to swim. 404 00:37:00,680 --> 00:37:05,231 But halfway across the river, the scorpion stung him. 405 00:37:05,400 --> 00:37:10,031 As the poison filled his veins, the fox turned to the scorpion and said, 406 00:37:10,200 --> 00:37:14,114 "Why did you do that? Now you'll drown, too." 407 00:37:14,280 --> 00:37:18,399 "I couldn't help it", said the scorpion. "It's my nature.” 408 00:37:20,680 --> 00:37:23,513 I understand the risk. 409 00:37:24,840 --> 00:37:29,869 I'm not proposing we change the nature of the beast, but this is unique. 410 00:37:30,040 --> 00:37:35,240 They have never been so threatened. We can take advantage of that. 411 00:37:35,400 --> 00:37:39,837 If we negotiate an exchange, will they keep up their end of the bargain? 412 00:37:40,000 --> 00:37:42,879 It could take months to cross Borg territory. 413 00:37:43,040 --> 00:37:46,556 We'd face thousands of systems, millions of vessels. 414 00:37:46,720 --> 00:37:49,234 But we've got them over a barrel. 415 00:37:49,400 --> 00:37:52,950 We don't need to give them information until we're safe. 416 00:37:53,120 --> 00:37:55,760 We just need courage to see this through. 417 00:37:55,920 --> 00:38:00,756 There is the courage to accept some situations are beyond your control. 418 00:38:01,840 --> 00:38:05,595 - Not every problem has a solution. - Should we turn around? 419 00:38:05,760 --> 00:38:09,310 We should get out of harm's way. Let them fight it out. 420 00:38:09,480 --> 00:38:12,438 There's plenty of Delta Quadrant to explore. 421 00:38:12,600 --> 00:38:17,390 - We may find another way home. - Or something a year down the road. 422 00:38:17,560 --> 00:38:22,350 After Species 8472 gets through with the Borg, we could be in the line of fire 423 00:38:22,520 --> 00:38:26,115 and we'll have missed the opportunity that exists now. 424 00:38:26,280 --> 00:38:29,398 - How much is our safety worth? - What do you mean? 425 00:38:29,560 --> 00:38:33,440 We'd be giving an advantage to a race who murdered billions. 426 00:38:33,600 --> 00:38:38,356 We'd be helping the Borg assimilate a species just to get home. It's wrong! 427 00:38:38,520 --> 00:38:41,638 Tell that to Harry Kim. He's barely alive. 428 00:38:41,800 --> 00:38:46,590 Maybe helping to assimilate them isn't a bad idea. This could be a favour. 429 00:38:46,760 --> 00:38:51,550 I don't think you believe that. You're struggling to justify your plan, 430 00:38:51,720 --> 00:38:57,557 because your desire to get this crew home is blinding you. I know you. 431 00:38:57,720 --> 00:39:02,635 Sometimes you don't know when to step back. 432 00:39:03,680 --> 00:39:06,320 - Do you trust me? - That isn't the issue. 433 00:39:06,480 --> 00:39:11,509 It is. Yesterday you were saying we'd face this together. You'd be at my side. 434 00:39:11,680 --> 00:39:14,991 I have to tell you what I believe. I'm no good if I don't. 435 00:39:15,160 --> 00:39:19,950 I appreciate that, but the time for debate is over. I've made my decision. 436 00:39:20,120 --> 00:39:23,272 Now, do I have your support? 437 00:39:24,880 --> 00:39:29,670 You're the captain. I'm the first officer. I'll follow your orders. 438 00:39:29,840 --> 00:39:33,071 But my belief is we're making a fatal mistake. 439 00:39:35,360 --> 00:39:38,273 Then I guess I am alone, after all. 440 00:39:40,400 --> 00:39:41,754 Dismissed. 441 00:39:55,720 --> 00:39:59,918 There are three planets in this system. Inhabitants all Borg. 442 00:40:00,080 --> 00:40:03,516 - A vessel is approaching. - All stop. Shields up. 443 00:40:09,400 --> 00:40:12,677 - They're hailing us. - Open a channel. 444 00:40:12,840 --> 00:40:16,435 We are the Borg. You will be assimilated. 445 00:40:16,600 --> 00:40:21,151 - Resistance is futile. - We're locked onto their tractor beam. 446 00:40:21,320 --> 00:40:26,440 Borg vessel, this is Captain Janeway of the starship Voyager. 447 00:40:26,600 --> 00:40:32,949 I have tactical information about Species 8472. I want to negotiate. 448 00:40:33,120 --> 00:40:37,591 Negotiation is irrelevant. You will be assimilated. 449 00:40:41,960 --> 00:40:46,193 Borg vessel, what you're receiving is a sample of our knowledge. 450 00:40:46,360 --> 00:40:51,036 If you don't disengage your tractor beam, I will destroy that data. 451 00:40:51,200 --> 00:40:54,511 You have ten seconds to comply. 452 00:40:58,120 --> 00:41:03,672 You're in danger of being defeated. You can't risk losing this information. 453 00:41:03,840 --> 00:41:06,275 Disengage your tractor... 454 00:41:09,200 --> 00:41:11,157 State your demands. 455 00:41:13,680 --> 00:41:16,354 I want safe passage through your space. 456 00:41:16,520 --> 00:41:21,356 Once my ship is beyond Borg territory, I'll give you our research. 457 00:41:21,520 --> 00:41:25,718 Unacceptable. Our space is vast. 458 00:41:25,880 --> 00:41:29,191 Your passage would require too much time. 459 00:41:29,360 --> 00:41:31,590 We need the technology now. 460 00:41:32,880 --> 00:41:36,635 If I give it to you now, you'll assimilate us. 461 00:41:36,800 --> 00:41:40,555 Species 8472 must be stopped. 462 00:41:40,720 --> 00:41:45,715 Our survival is your survival. Give us the technology. 463 00:41:48,240 --> 00:41:50,311 No. 464 00:41:50,480 --> 00:41:54,553 Safe passage first, or no deal. 465 00:41:57,600 --> 00:41:59,557 State your proposal. 466 00:41:59,720 --> 00:42:02,838 Let's work together, combine our resources. 467 00:42:03,000 --> 00:42:08,200 Even if we give you the technology now, you'll still need time to develop it. 468 00:42:09,240 --> 00:42:13,791 By working together, we can create a weapon more quickly. 469 00:42:14,840 --> 00:42:18,629 If you escort us through your space, we can perfect it... 470 00:42:24,400 --> 00:42:28,678 - Where did that ship come from? - A quantum singularity has appeared. 471 00:42:28,840 --> 00:42:30,956 The bio-ship is going to the planet. 472 00:42:31,120 --> 00:42:33,953 Borg shields weakening. We could break free. 473 00:42:34,120 --> 00:42:37,476 - Can you get a lock on the captain? - Not yet. 474 00:42:37,640 --> 00:42:41,793 There are nine more bio-ships coming out of the singularity. 475 00:43:01,680 --> 00:43:03,637 What's going on?