1 00:00:03,200 --> 00:00:06,909 Captain's log, stardate 50063.2. 2 00:00:07,080 --> 00:00:12,029 We've accepted an invitation from the Nechani to take leave on their world. 3 00:00:12,200 --> 00:00:15,556 We're enjoying learning about their culture. 4 00:00:15,720 --> 00:00:20,351 This sanctuary honours our Ancestral Spirits. 5 00:00:20,520 --> 00:00:23,319 Their presence is very strong here. 6 00:00:37,400 --> 00:00:39,994 Those are brothers of the Nechisti Order. 7 00:00:40,160 --> 00:00:43,755 They've devoted their lives to serving the spirits. 8 00:00:43,920 --> 00:00:46,799 Here's something you might find interesting. 9 00:00:52,040 --> 00:00:55,078 - What do you think this means? - Hard to tell. 10 00:00:55,240 --> 00:00:59,996 - A fertility symbol, maybe? - Or a blessing for good luck or wisdom. 11 00:01:00,160 --> 00:01:02,197 Or happiness... and love. 12 00:01:04,480 --> 00:01:07,711 - Do you hear something? - What? 13 00:01:23,680 --> 00:01:26,911 - That's beautiful! - It looks like a shrine. 14 00:01:32,800 --> 00:01:37,192 - We don't want to be left behind. - I just want to take a quick look. 15 00:01:45,880 --> 00:01:47,837 Kes! 16 00:01:49,600 --> 00:01:51,637 Kes, can you hear me? 17 00:01:52,680 --> 00:01:56,753 Help! Somebody! We need help! 18 00:03:43,080 --> 00:03:46,357 - What happened? - This shrine is protected. 19 00:03:46,520 --> 00:03:48,477 She didn't touch anything! 20 00:03:48,640 --> 00:03:51,154 An energy field knocked her down. 21 00:03:51,320 --> 00:03:53,630 Torres to Voyager. Medical emergency. 22 00:03:53,800 --> 00:03:56,269 Beam Kes and Neelix to sickbay. 23 00:04:01,720 --> 00:04:04,678 This is most unfortunate. I must ask you to leave. 24 00:04:04,840 --> 00:04:07,593 First we have to find out what happened. 25 00:04:07,760 --> 00:04:09,956 Which energy was she exposed to? 26 00:04:10,120 --> 00:04:12,430 I... I have no idea. 27 00:04:12,600 --> 00:04:15,160 Only the monks can truly understand. 28 00:04:15,320 --> 00:04:18,517 Then we'll investigate for ourselves. 29 00:04:18,680 --> 00:04:20,830 That would disrespect the spirits. 30 00:04:21,000 --> 00:04:23,150 One of our crew has been injured. 31 00:04:23,320 --> 00:04:25,311 We won't stand by and do nothing. 32 00:04:25,480 --> 00:04:28,791 She's been punished by the spirits and will die. 33 00:04:28,960 --> 00:04:31,076 If you prevent us from helping Kes, 34 00:04:31,240 --> 00:04:35,313 we will hold you responsible for anything that happens to her. 35 00:04:35,480 --> 00:04:37,437 I will make a report to our captain. 36 00:04:37,600 --> 00:04:39,557 You'll hear from her. 37 00:04:39,720 --> 00:04:42,758 I'll be happy to do what I can to help. 38 00:04:42,920 --> 00:04:45,639 But your presence makes things worse. 39 00:04:45,800 --> 00:04:47,757 Please, leave now. 40 00:04:54,400 --> 00:04:56,550 Her lifesigns are weak but stable. 41 00:04:56,720 --> 00:05:00,111 Her synaptic pathways are in shock 42 00:05:00,280 --> 00:05:02,396 which is disrupting cortical functions. 43 00:05:02,560 --> 00:05:06,076 It is similar to a coma, but without the usual markers. 44 00:05:06,240 --> 00:05:08,197 Can you cure her? 45 00:05:08,360 --> 00:05:11,079 I have to know more about what caused this. 46 00:05:11,240 --> 00:05:16,952 We're not allowed near the area but Kim and Torres are scanning the sanctuary. 47 00:05:17,120 --> 00:05:20,875 They'll report to you. I'm going to talk to the magistrate. 48 00:05:21,040 --> 00:05:24,510 He might be able to cut through the restrictions. 49 00:05:24,680 --> 00:05:28,833 Excuse me, Captain. I'd like to do something to help. 50 00:05:31,320 --> 00:05:35,029 The Nechani must have some kind of data on this energy field. 51 00:05:35,200 --> 00:05:37,476 Go and see what you can find. 52 00:05:40,560 --> 00:05:42,517 I'll be back soon. 53 00:05:45,480 --> 00:05:49,155 Captain, I'm caught in a difficult situation. 54 00:05:49,320 --> 00:05:54,633 I'm not a spiritual leader. I don't know why the spirits do what they do. 55 00:05:54,800 --> 00:05:56,757 I'll talk with the brothers. 56 00:05:56,920 --> 00:06:02,632 I've asked them to speak to you but they consider the matter closed. 57 00:06:02,800 --> 00:06:06,077 They have expressed their sympathies for your loss. 58 00:06:06,240 --> 00:06:09,437 There is no loss at this point. Kes is still alive. 59 00:06:09,600 --> 00:06:13,594 Can't you insist that the monks meet with me? 60 00:06:13,760 --> 00:06:17,390 The Council don't involve themselves with government 61 00:06:17,560 --> 00:06:21,155 and we don't interfere in spiritual matters. 62 00:06:21,320 --> 00:06:23,789 That's always worked well for us. 63 00:06:23,960 --> 00:06:26,998 Can you tell me what happens at the sanctuary? 64 00:06:28,640 --> 00:06:30,631 I'll try. 65 00:06:32,200 --> 00:06:37,036 That shrine is where the monks go to receive the gift of purification. 66 00:06:37,200 --> 00:06:42,115 - It is one of our most holy places. - Monks enter it without being harmed? 67 00:06:42,280 --> 00:06:47,309 They prepare themselves with a sacred ritual, speaking to the Ancestral Spirits. 68 00:06:47,480 --> 00:06:49,915 Then they are able to enter the shrine. 69 00:06:50,080 --> 00:06:53,232 How does the ritual offer protection against the field? 70 00:06:53,400 --> 00:06:57,314 You want explanations for everything. I don't have them. 71 00:06:57,480 --> 00:07:02,350 Only the brothers who have gone through the ritual know what happens. 72 00:07:04,160 --> 00:07:09,678 The energy field that Kes encountered. Can anyone help us analyse it? 73 00:07:09,840 --> 00:07:14,232 We only know that it is a naturally occurring phenomenon. 74 00:07:14,400 --> 00:07:20,271 If you're saying there's nothing you can do to help Kes, I won't accept it. 75 00:07:20,440 --> 00:07:23,751 If I could help you, I would. I swear it. 76 00:07:25,800 --> 00:07:27,950 I blame myself. 77 00:07:28,120 --> 00:07:31,795 If I'd seen that she was approaching the shrine... 78 00:07:33,320 --> 00:07:37,996 There's nothing more to be done now. You have our sympathy. 79 00:07:44,800 --> 00:07:46,837 Have you been given a report? 80 00:07:47,000 --> 00:07:53,474 Yes. A lesson in the challenges of getting scanner readings through rock. 81 00:07:53,640 --> 00:07:57,873 We've established a biogenic field at the site of the accident. 82 00:07:58,040 --> 00:08:02,557 That explains the neuroleptic shock. She was lucky not to die instantly. 83 00:08:02,720 --> 00:08:06,475 The Nechani monks can enter the field without being harmed. 84 00:08:06,640 --> 00:08:11,589 - Really? They wouldn't tell us how? - No, they wouldn't. 85 00:08:19,120 --> 00:08:23,910 She's not responding to treatments. I'm running out of ideas. 86 00:08:24,080 --> 00:08:29,712 Brain activity is so low there may be permanent damage even if I revive her. 87 00:08:30,960 --> 00:08:35,397 The longer she stays like this, the less likely it is she'll recover. 88 00:08:42,080 --> 00:08:46,119 - How is she? - There's been no change. 89 00:08:48,240 --> 00:08:52,393 I've researched everything I could find about the sacred shrine. 90 00:08:52,560 --> 00:08:56,758 I didn't undercover much scientific evidence but there was one story - 91 00:08:56,920 --> 00:09:00,595 it was in a very old text, I'm not sure how reliable - 92 00:09:00,760 --> 00:09:03,274 about a boy who recovered from this condition. 93 00:09:03,440 --> 00:09:07,593 He was a young prince who wandered into the shrine accidentally. 94 00:09:07,760 --> 00:09:12,550 He went into a death sleep. Everyone said it was the will of the spirits. 95 00:09:12,720 --> 00:09:17,317 His father, King Nevad, refused to accept that. 96 00:09:17,480 --> 00:09:21,678 He went through the ritual to seek an audience with the spirits. 97 00:09:21,840 --> 00:09:23,877 He pleaded for his son's life. 98 00:09:24,920 --> 00:09:28,595 The spirits, in their mercy, granted his request. 99 00:09:28,760 --> 00:09:31,912 That was the only trace of hope that I could find. 100 00:09:34,200 --> 00:09:36,157 Maybe it's enough. 101 00:09:36,320 --> 00:09:41,520 You've certainly done your research. I heard that story as a child. 102 00:09:41,680 --> 00:09:44,752 It suggests there's a chance for Kes. 103 00:09:44,920 --> 00:09:46,831 That was a very specific case. 104 00:09:47,000 --> 00:09:51,392 Nevad claimed responsibility for the prince as a father and a king. 105 00:09:51,560 --> 00:09:53,870 That's why the spirits listened to him. 106 00:09:54,040 --> 00:09:59,831 The captain of a starship is responsible for every member of her crew. 107 00:10:00,000 --> 00:10:01,354 She is. 108 00:10:01,520 --> 00:10:06,799 Then on that basis, I'd like to go through the ritual myself. 109 00:10:13,200 --> 00:10:15,430 I haven't heard from the magistrate 110 00:10:15,600 --> 00:10:19,639 but the monks might let me go through the ritual. 111 00:10:19,800 --> 00:10:24,920 Captain, you've never put much trust in religious ceremonies. 112 00:10:25,080 --> 00:10:27,037 What do you hope to accomplish? 113 00:10:27,200 --> 00:10:31,797 I don't expect to speak to the Ancestral Spirits. 114 00:10:31,960 --> 00:10:34,679 But when the monks go through the ritual 115 00:10:34,840 --> 00:10:38,037 something allows them to withstand the biogenic field. 116 00:10:38,200 --> 00:10:40,999 That might provide clues to a treatment. 117 00:10:41,160 --> 00:10:44,278 - Some kind of physiological change? - Yes. 118 00:10:44,440 --> 00:10:47,398 The shamans of the Karis Tribe on Delios VII 119 00:10:47,560 --> 00:10:51,155 practise a ritual that increases the resistance of their skin. 120 00:10:51,320 --> 00:10:54,312 It protects them from plasma discharges. 121 00:10:54,480 --> 00:10:56,437 Something similar must happen. 122 00:10:56,600 --> 00:11:00,639 The Doctor should monitor your physical condition 123 00:11:00,800 --> 00:11:04,794 and you should have a way to call for an emergency beam-out. 124 00:11:04,960 --> 00:11:07,270 We don't know what the ritual entails. 125 00:11:07,440 --> 00:11:10,353 I've been reviewing our cultural database. 126 00:11:10,520 --> 00:11:15,549 Most spirit quest ceremonies involve a physical challenge or endurance test 127 00:11:15,720 --> 00:11:18,712 to prove the mastery of spirit over body. 128 00:11:18,880 --> 00:11:21,156 I think this one will be similar. 129 00:11:21,320 --> 00:11:24,995 A series of ordeals will result in biochemical changes. 130 00:11:25,160 --> 00:11:31,111 Maybe the Ancestral Spirits really do control what happens in the shrine. 131 00:11:32,120 --> 00:11:34,350 To each his own, Commander. 132 00:11:34,520 --> 00:11:39,993 But if we scratched deep enough, we'd find a scientific basis for most doctrines. 133 00:11:40,160 --> 00:11:44,358 When I learned about the science underlying the vision quest, 134 00:11:44,520 --> 00:11:48,070 I was disappointed. The mystery was gone. 135 00:11:48,240 --> 00:11:51,437 Maybe the Nechani choose not to lose the mystery. 136 00:11:51,600 --> 00:11:55,389 Under other circumstances, I'd go along with their choice. 137 00:11:55,560 --> 00:11:58,234 Right now, it's killing one of my crew. 138 00:11:58,400 --> 00:12:01,233 - Bridge to the Captain. - Janeway here. 139 00:12:01,400 --> 00:12:05,155 You have an incoming transmission from the magistrate. 140 00:12:05,320 --> 00:12:08,039 Put it through to Chakotay's office. 141 00:12:10,440 --> 00:12:12,397 I must congratulate you. 142 00:12:12,560 --> 00:12:16,076 Your approach to this problem has fascinated the Council. 143 00:12:16,240 --> 00:12:18,914 - They've approved my request? - Eagerly. 144 00:12:19,080 --> 00:12:22,550 They're honoured that you want to seek the spirits. 145 00:12:22,720 --> 00:12:27,954 The ritual traditionally begins at sunset. A guide will meet you at the sanctuary. 146 00:12:28,120 --> 00:12:30,236 I appreciate your efforts. 147 00:12:31,320 --> 00:12:35,279 I have been greatly troubled by your misfortune. 148 00:12:35,440 --> 00:12:39,115 If you are able to convince the spirits to spare your friend, 149 00:12:39,280 --> 00:12:41,510 no one will be happier than 1. 150 00:12:47,600 --> 00:12:52,834 The subdermal bioprobe will transmit any changes in your biochemistry. 151 00:12:53,000 --> 00:12:58,791 The implant also contains a homing beacon which we'll be able to pick up. 152 00:12:58,960 --> 00:13:02,157 Just tap it like a combadge and we'll transport you. 153 00:13:02,320 --> 00:13:04,516 Thank you both. 154 00:13:11,360 --> 00:13:13,590 I don't think that will be necessary. 155 00:13:13,760 --> 00:13:18,914 It is normal to carry arms on a mission when you don't know what to expect. 156 00:13:19,080 --> 00:13:21,959 This is an information-gathering mission. 157 00:13:22,120 --> 00:13:24,396 I don't want to appear hostile. 158 00:13:29,080 --> 00:13:31,037 Energise. 159 00:14:16,960 --> 00:14:20,874 Do you know anything about chromodynamic lights? 160 00:14:21,040 --> 00:14:23,873 No, not really. 161 00:14:26,200 --> 00:14:28,669 I suppose I could look at it. 162 00:14:28,840 --> 00:14:34,438 You tune them too high, they burn out. You tune them too low, they sputter. 163 00:14:34,600 --> 00:14:38,673 I've told the monks to replace them with neodyne lights. It would save hours. 164 00:14:38,840 --> 00:14:42,276 - What is that? - It's called a tricorder. 165 00:14:42,440 --> 00:14:46,434 - What exactly does a tricorder do? - It's a scanning device. 166 00:14:46,600 --> 00:14:48,557 Interesting. May I? 167 00:14:48,720 --> 00:14:53,669 Oh, atmospheric reading, energy field analysis, technical database... 168 00:14:53,840 --> 00:14:56,354 This is a convenient thing to have. 169 00:14:56,520 --> 00:15:00,479 I didn't mean for you to keep it. I'll need that back. 170 00:15:01,560 --> 00:15:03,676 No, you won't. 171 00:15:05,360 --> 00:15:09,069 - You're my guide. - Guide, advisor, spiritual companion... 172 00:15:09,240 --> 00:15:11,470 Whatever term you prefer is fine. 173 00:15:11,640 --> 00:15:14,075 Why didn't you say something earlier? 174 00:15:15,720 --> 00:15:18,030 Shall we get started? 175 00:15:37,640 --> 00:15:39,677 It's all right, Kathryn. 176 00:16:07,960 --> 00:16:12,591 Would it break any vows of secrecy to tell me what this ritual will involve? 177 00:16:12,760 --> 00:16:17,038 - Why do you think I know? - Haven't you been through this before? 178 00:16:17,200 --> 00:16:20,033 Don't worry. I'll help you find your way. 179 00:16:20,200 --> 00:16:24,910 Have you completely committed yourself to this journey? 180 00:16:25,080 --> 00:16:26,593 Yes. 181 00:16:26,760 --> 00:16:30,754 You'll go through what the monks do to help them find the spirits? 182 00:16:30,920 --> 00:16:32,319 Yes. 183 00:16:32,480 --> 00:16:36,110 So you can send biochemical data back to your ship? 184 00:16:36,280 --> 00:16:41,036 It wasn't magic. Our bioscanners detected the probe under your skin. 185 00:16:41,200 --> 00:16:44,989 - I hope that's not a problem. - Makes no difference. 186 00:16:45,160 --> 00:16:48,232 You are fond of your little devices, aren't you? 187 00:16:49,200 --> 00:16:52,556 - They've always served me well. - I'm sure they have. 188 00:16:52,720 --> 00:16:55,075 Please, come this way. 189 00:17:08,160 --> 00:17:11,790 - Who are you? - I'm Kathryn Janeway. 190 00:17:11,960 --> 00:17:16,352 - Is this where the ritual begins? - Oh, the ritual... yes. 191 00:17:16,520 --> 00:17:19,672 We're waiting. Come. Join us. 192 00:17:20,760 --> 00:17:25,311 - What exactly are you waiting for? - Just waiting. 193 00:17:27,360 --> 00:17:31,558 - How long have you been sitting here? - How long has it been? 194 00:17:31,720 --> 00:17:38,319 - Why ask me? I've lost track. - It's been a while. I know that. 195 00:17:38,480 --> 00:17:41,120 Oh, it's been... 196 00:17:41,280 --> 00:17:43,510 as long as we can remember. 197 00:17:50,280 --> 00:17:54,399 I have to wait a lifetime before I can go through the ritual? 198 00:17:54,560 --> 00:17:57,234 - Did you hear anyone say that? - No. 199 00:17:57,400 --> 00:18:00,233 All we said was that we're waiting. 200 00:18:00,400 --> 00:18:05,395 I'm just trying to understand how this works. The monks I saw were young. 201 00:18:05,560 --> 00:18:08,279 They couldn't have waited such a long time. 202 00:18:08,440 --> 00:18:12,354 - She's right about that. - She's a smart one. 203 00:18:12,520 --> 00:18:14,750 She thinks she is, at any rate. 204 00:18:14,920 --> 00:18:19,039 This is a test, isn't it? To prove my determination. 205 00:18:19,200 --> 00:18:23,671 A test? She thinks we're a test! What is she talking about? 206 00:18:23,840 --> 00:18:28,277 She must like tests. I suppose tests make sense to her. 207 00:18:28,440 --> 00:18:31,034 Has anyone tried to open this door? 208 00:18:31,880 --> 00:18:36,431 How many times do we have to tell you that we are waiting? 209 00:18:36,600 --> 00:18:40,878 My dear, why don't you just sit down and relax? 210 00:18:41,040 --> 00:18:44,874 - You're much too tense. - You're welcome to wait with us. 211 00:18:45,040 --> 00:18:48,715 My friend is depending on me. I have to go through the ritual. 212 00:18:48,880 --> 00:18:53,431 - I wonder if she's always this impatient. - She's just determined. 213 00:18:53,600 --> 00:18:56,399 She wants to get on with it. 214 00:18:56,560 --> 00:19:00,155 She could be friendly and sit for a few minutes. 215 00:19:00,320 --> 00:19:02,709 No, she knows what she wants to do. 216 00:19:02,880 --> 00:19:07,431 She's not the kind to sit around when she has a mission to accomplish. 217 00:19:13,680 --> 00:19:17,150 I told you. I told you it was locked. 218 00:19:25,640 --> 00:19:27,597 Yes? 219 00:19:29,040 --> 00:19:30,997 I mean no disrespect, 220 00:19:31,160 --> 00:19:34,471 but unless there's something I'm supposed to accomplish here, 221 00:19:34,640 --> 00:19:36,597 I'd like to continue with the ritual. 222 00:19:36,760 --> 00:19:39,479 By all means. 223 00:19:49,880 --> 00:19:51,871 I'm not sure how to begin. 224 00:19:52,040 --> 00:19:56,477 - Do you want me to give you orders? - I'll do whatever you ask. 225 00:19:56,640 --> 00:19:59,519 You think this is about doing what you're told? 226 00:19:59,680 --> 00:20:04,072 No. I'm sure there's spiritual significance behind the challenges. 227 00:20:04,240 --> 00:20:08,916 - Challenges? That's what you expect? - I don't know what to expect. 228 00:20:09,080 --> 00:20:13,153 Many ritualistic rites have commonalities. 229 00:20:13,320 --> 00:20:17,393 This one may be different. I'll do whatever is necessary. 230 00:20:17,560 --> 00:20:22,475 I don't doubt that. But do you realise that all of this is meaningless, 231 00:20:22,640 --> 00:20:26,679 that all that matters is finding your connection to the spirits? 232 00:20:26,840 --> 00:20:29,514 I'll make every effort to do that. 233 00:20:29,680 --> 00:20:32,240 But I didn't come here for enlightenment. 234 00:20:32,400 --> 00:20:34,960 I'm trying to save a member of my crew. 235 00:20:35,120 --> 00:20:39,591 That's a worthy cause. I hope the spirits listen to you. 236 00:20:39,760 --> 00:20:41,751 Then let's begin. 237 00:20:43,280 --> 00:20:45,590 The first challenge. 238 00:20:45,760 --> 00:20:48,752 Stand like this. 239 00:20:49,840 --> 00:20:51,717 Hold that. 240 00:20:54,400 --> 00:20:58,314 Now... what do you see in your hands? 241 00:21:00,920 --> 00:21:04,356 I see... a stone. 242 00:21:04,520 --> 00:21:07,114 Keep looking. 243 00:21:11,840 --> 00:21:13,911 Her respiration and pulse are steady 244 00:21:14,080 --> 00:21:18,358 but there's been a build-up of lactic acid in her muscles. 245 00:21:18,520 --> 00:21:20,750 - Is she in danger? - Not at all. 246 00:21:20,920 --> 00:21:25,790 She's probably experiencing the strain you'd expect in an endurance ritual. 247 00:21:27,520 --> 00:21:30,558 Nothing so far suggests a treatment for Kes? 248 00:21:30,720 --> 00:21:32,757 It's too early to tell. 249 00:21:32,920 --> 00:21:35,799 I'm downloading the information from the bioprobe 250 00:21:35,960 --> 00:21:38,952 into a program which is analysing the data. 251 00:21:39,120 --> 00:21:43,557 Even the smallest physiological change may prove significant. 252 00:21:51,600 --> 00:21:54,069 What do you see now? 253 00:21:55,520 --> 00:21:59,115 I still see... a stone. 254 00:22:07,240 --> 00:22:09,754 You're not going to tell me what to draw? 255 00:22:09,920 --> 00:22:13,959 That would be too easy. It's up to you. Draw whatever feels right. 256 00:22:14,120 --> 00:22:17,511 I've never been able to draw. My sister was the artist. 257 00:22:17,680 --> 00:22:20,513 - And you were the scientist. - It's true. 258 00:22:20,680 --> 00:22:25,390 While the other children were playing, I was doing mathematics problems. 259 00:22:25,560 --> 00:22:28,552 Mathematics. I can see why you enjoyed it. 260 00:22:28,720 --> 00:22:32,714 Solve a problem, get an answer. The answer's right or wrong. 261 00:22:32,880 --> 00:22:37,033 - It's very absolute. - I've always found that satisfying. 262 00:22:37,200 --> 00:22:39,157 I'm sure you did. 263 00:23:17,520 --> 00:23:19,875 What did you see? 264 00:23:21,000 --> 00:23:25,073 - I'm not sure. - Describe it. 265 00:23:29,400 --> 00:23:31,073 Uh-huh... 266 00:23:31,240 --> 00:23:35,120 What? What is it? What have you found? 267 00:23:35,280 --> 00:23:40,480 There have been increases in the respiration and neuropeptides. 268 00:23:40,640 --> 00:23:44,599 - Is that bad? - It suggests a gruelling experience. 269 00:23:44,760 --> 00:23:49,277 The saturations of neuropeptides have risen to an abnormal level. 270 00:23:49,440 --> 00:23:53,832 - Is that good or bad? - I can't say for the Captain. 271 00:23:54,000 --> 00:23:57,277 But it's a substantial piece of information. 272 00:23:57,440 --> 00:24:01,991 Neuropeptide levels this high could create a barrier to biogenic energy. 273 00:24:02,160 --> 00:24:04,515 So you have something to help Kes? 274 00:24:04,680 --> 00:24:09,436 Not yet. But it's the first thing that allows me to formulate a hypothesis. 275 00:24:09,600 --> 00:24:13,753 It should be me going through that. I let Kes get hurt. 276 00:24:13,920 --> 00:24:17,959 You're wallowing in useless remorse. I'll have to ask you to stop. 277 00:24:18,120 --> 00:24:22,637 - It's bad for the patient. - It's frustrating to be so helpless. 278 00:24:24,480 --> 00:24:29,350 If it's any consolation, Mr Neelix, I do understand. 279 00:24:34,600 --> 00:24:37,399 I'm exhausted. Oh, thank you. 280 00:24:37,560 --> 00:24:42,839 Your microprobe should be transmitting interesting information to the ship. 281 00:24:47,240 --> 00:24:50,358 - What is that? - It's a nesset. 282 00:24:50,520 --> 00:24:54,434 They're able to travel from this world into the spirit realm. 283 00:24:54,600 --> 00:24:56,750 They serve as gatekeepers. 284 00:24:56,920 --> 00:25:01,312 Gatekeepers? Then I'm ready to enter the spirit realm? 285 00:25:01,480 --> 00:25:04,313 Do you think you're ready? 286 00:25:06,840 --> 00:25:10,310 - Yes, I do. - Then you are. 287 00:25:10,480 --> 00:25:13,791 Go ahead. Put your hand in. 288 00:25:28,320 --> 00:25:32,837 - We can stop right now if you like. - No, I'm not quitting. 289 00:25:47,600 --> 00:25:52,151 - Don't be afraid. - It's burning me! My chest! 290 00:25:52,320 --> 00:25:55,517 Very tight! 291 00:26:07,560 --> 00:26:09,597 Captain. 292 00:26:09,760 --> 00:26:12,070 Captain. 293 00:26:12,240 --> 00:26:14,197 Kathryn. 294 00:26:14,360 --> 00:26:19,434 - I'm dying. - Everyone dies eventually. 295 00:26:27,040 --> 00:26:31,079 It's three days since she slept. How long can she go through this? 296 00:26:31,240 --> 00:26:36,713 I understand but her vital signs are stable. She's in no immediate danger. 297 00:26:36,880 --> 00:26:40,953 She's been poisoned with an unknown toxin. 298 00:26:41,120 --> 00:26:45,079 It could lie dormant for days then kill her in minutes. 299 00:26:45,240 --> 00:26:49,074 You're implying that I'm not paying attention. I am. 300 00:26:49,240 --> 00:26:51,880 If I thought she was in jeopardy, I'd act. 301 00:26:52,040 --> 00:26:55,237 Is anything preventing her from using the homing signal? 302 00:26:55,400 --> 00:27:00,315 No. She's fully conscious and has motor control. She could signal us. 303 00:27:00,480 --> 00:27:04,030 Are you getting enough information to justify this ordeal? 304 00:27:04,200 --> 00:27:06,953 I am getting some remarkable data. 305 00:27:07,120 --> 00:27:11,671 Her biochemistry is undergoing unique interactions. Look. 306 00:27:11,840 --> 00:27:15,674 This amino acid has been formed by a breakdown of a toxin. 307 00:27:15,840 --> 00:27:20,357 It's affecting the neurotransmitters and has a hallucinogenic effect. 308 00:27:20,520 --> 00:27:24,514 - Is she delusional? - She's on a psychoactive drug. 309 00:27:24,680 --> 00:27:27,672 Is she in no condition to activate the signal? 310 00:27:27,840 --> 00:27:33,313 I don't believe so, and I think this change will give us our answers. 311 00:27:33,480 --> 00:27:37,553 The toxin in her bloodstream may be the key to Kes's treatment. 312 00:27:37,720 --> 00:27:40,553 Commander, the decision is ultimately yours. 313 00:27:40,720 --> 00:27:45,476 However, I believe the captain would wish to complete the ritual. 314 00:27:47,520 --> 00:27:51,912 We'll leave her there for now. But I'm not moving until she gets back. 315 00:28:19,280 --> 00:28:21,396 What is this? 316 00:28:22,360 --> 00:28:24,636 An hallucination? 317 00:28:24,800 --> 00:28:30,273 I'm only here to serve as a voice, an interpreter for the Ancestral Spirits. 318 00:28:30,440 --> 00:28:32,397 I see. 319 00:28:33,720 --> 00:28:38,510 If there are other beings here, could I see them myself? 320 00:28:38,680 --> 00:28:41,752 You mean you want proof that we exist? 321 00:28:41,920 --> 00:28:45,356 - That would be helpful. - It's irrelevant. 322 00:28:47,280 --> 00:28:49,556 I don't want to be disrespectful. 323 00:28:49,720 --> 00:28:54,157 I've gone through every part of the ritual that I've been asked to. 324 00:28:54,320 --> 00:28:58,598 Everything you've gone through is meaningless. You've been told that. 325 00:28:58,760 --> 00:29:01,513 I know. 326 00:29:01,680 --> 00:29:06,754 I just want to bring this to completion, to make my request. 327 00:29:06,920 --> 00:29:09,799 Then, by all means, do so. 328 00:29:15,480 --> 00:29:18,996 I cite the story of King Nevad as precedent. 329 00:29:20,520 --> 00:29:22,830 In the same way he pleaded for his son, 330 00:29:24,880 --> 00:29:28,475 I ask that Kes be restored to health. 331 00:29:28,640 --> 00:29:34,192 Your request is inconsequential. You have what you need to save her. 332 00:29:40,360 --> 00:29:42,795 Welcome back. 333 00:29:44,440 --> 00:29:47,478 - How long? - Does that matter? 334 00:29:47,640 --> 00:29:49,631 I'd like to know. 335 00:29:49,800 --> 00:29:54,636 39 hours. Take care of yourself. Your body is weak. 336 00:29:54,800 --> 00:30:00,478 Our physical conditioning programs didn't quite prepare me for this. 337 00:30:00,640 --> 00:30:03,758 - Has it been worthwhile? - I think so. 338 00:30:07,240 --> 00:30:10,437 I was told that I had what I needed to save Kes. 339 00:30:10,600 --> 00:30:14,594 Then it must be true. The spirits would not deceive you. 340 00:30:21,000 --> 00:30:23,196 Whenever you're ready. 341 00:30:30,600 --> 00:30:32,591 Thank you. 342 00:30:45,280 --> 00:30:50,514 You could use a night's sleep and a solid meal but you're in good shape. 343 00:30:50,680 --> 00:30:54,196 - When can you begin treating Kes? - Right away. 344 00:30:54,360 --> 00:30:58,354 The ritual may have been arduous, but it was worthwhile. 345 00:30:58,520 --> 00:31:00,511 The toxin was the key. 346 00:31:00,680 --> 00:31:04,560 It produces a natural immunity before one enters the biogenic field. 347 00:31:04,720 --> 00:31:06,996 How is that a cure for Kes? 348 00:31:07,160 --> 00:31:10,596 I've created a program to analyse the immune mechanism 349 00:31:10,760 --> 00:31:12,956 and develop a treatment regimen. 350 00:31:13,120 --> 00:31:14,918 Then let's get started. 351 00:31:15,080 --> 00:31:18,914 If you'll excuse me, I'm probably more useful on the bridge. 352 00:31:28,760 --> 00:31:33,436 I'll carry out the treatment in stages to reduce the stress from the changes. 353 00:31:35,360 --> 00:31:38,796 - Is something wrong? - I don't believe so. 354 00:31:38,960 --> 00:31:44,080 Hmm, her electrolyte balance is deviating, but that's not unexpected. 355 00:31:44,240 --> 00:31:46,197 - It isn't? - Hmm... 356 00:31:46,360 --> 00:31:48,158 What? 357 00:31:48,360 --> 00:31:53,594 If you keep pestering me, I can't concentrate on what I'm doing. 358 00:31:55,920 --> 00:31:58,878 Something is wrong! 359 00:31:59,040 --> 00:32:01,316 What is it, Doctor? 360 00:32:01,480 --> 00:32:05,633 Her cardiac functions are being disrupted. I don't understand it. 361 00:32:08,360 --> 00:32:11,478 Lectrazine should counteract the disruptions. 362 00:32:13,880 --> 00:32:19,831 Her biochemical levels are exactly what they need to be. She should be awake. 363 00:32:20,000 --> 00:32:22,310 - Why isn't she? - I can't explain it. 364 00:32:22,480 --> 00:32:27,077 Her vital signs are unstable. I have to discontinue treatment. 365 00:32:29,920 --> 00:32:32,275 I don't understand it. 366 00:32:33,320 --> 00:32:36,517 - Can't we try again? - It's too dangerous. 367 00:32:36,680 --> 00:32:39,240 - Do you have any other options? - No. 368 00:32:39,400 --> 00:32:45,351 I'm sorry, but it appears that everything you went through was meaningless. 369 00:33:03,200 --> 00:33:07,592 You meant it, didn't you? Everything I went through was meaningless. 370 00:33:07,760 --> 00:33:10,798 - Yes. - I did everything you asked of me. 371 00:33:11,880 --> 00:33:14,440 You led me to believe I could help Kes. 372 00:33:14,600 --> 00:33:19,674 I haven't led you anywhere. You've taken me wherever you wanted to go. 373 00:33:19,840 --> 00:33:24,152 This was your ritual. You set these challenges for yourself. 374 00:33:24,320 --> 00:33:28,075 It's true that I came here with certain expectations. 375 00:33:30,600 --> 00:33:36,039 Are you saying that you simply fulfilled my expectations? 376 00:33:36,200 --> 00:33:38,999 You'd have settled for nothing else. 377 00:33:39,920 --> 00:33:45,472 I'm not ready to give up. If there's still a way to save Kes, I want to try. 378 00:33:45,640 --> 00:33:49,395 You've come back to seek the spirits. 379 00:33:50,600 --> 00:33:54,195 I don't know what I'm seeking. 380 00:33:54,360 --> 00:33:57,159 Then I believe you are ready to begin. 381 00:34:05,440 --> 00:34:08,592 Well, look who's come back. 382 00:34:16,160 --> 00:34:20,040 So, your adventure didn't work out the way you'd planned it. 383 00:34:20,200 --> 00:34:24,910 You put yourself through a lot of trouble for nothing, didn't you? 384 00:34:25,080 --> 00:34:29,472 Don't feel bad. You wouldn't believe some of the things people have done 385 00:34:29,640 --> 00:34:31,597 on their way to seek the spirits. 386 00:34:31,760 --> 00:34:36,197 - So there's no real ritual? - "Real" is such a relative term. 387 00:34:36,360 --> 00:34:40,240 Most of the challenges in life are the ones we create for ourselves. 388 00:34:40,400 --> 00:34:44,234 And you are particularly hard on yourself, aren't you? 389 00:34:45,120 --> 00:34:47,350 I've always been driven to succeed. 390 00:34:47,520 --> 00:34:50,034 Stubborn, I'd say. 391 00:34:50,200 --> 00:34:53,477 You didn't consider sitting and waiting with us, did you? 392 00:34:53,640 --> 00:34:57,156 I'm here now and I'm asking for your help. 393 00:34:57,320 --> 00:35:01,757 I want to understand the purpose of waiting in this room. 394 00:35:01,920 --> 00:35:07,154 Isn't it enough to sit and be sociable? We're good company. 395 00:35:07,320 --> 00:35:12,679 That's what I'm supposed to do. Talk to the Ancestral Spirits. 396 00:35:12,840 --> 00:35:18,358 First we were a test, and now we're the Ancestral Spirits. 397 00:35:20,240 --> 00:35:25,235 - Are you? - That would be nice and quantifiable. 398 00:35:25,400 --> 00:35:28,518 If the spirits were something you could see and touch 399 00:35:28,680 --> 00:35:31,149 and scan with your little devices. 400 00:35:31,320 --> 00:35:35,109 If you can explain everything, what's left to believe in? 401 00:35:36,720 --> 00:35:40,873 I know it's an important part of your religion to trust the spirits. 402 00:35:41,040 --> 00:35:45,079 But I wasn't brought up that way. It's hard to accept. 403 00:35:45,240 --> 00:35:49,279 So much for your tolerant, open-minded Starfleet ideals. 404 00:35:49,440 --> 00:35:53,991 There's a difference between respecting beliefs and embracing them. 405 00:35:54,160 --> 00:35:57,471 Fine! Don't embrace a thing. It's all the same to us. 406 00:35:57,640 --> 00:36:02,350 Go back to your ship and play with your molecular microscanner. 407 00:36:02,520 --> 00:36:06,400 You've tried all that already. It didn't work, did it? 408 00:36:06,560 --> 00:36:09,632 - Kes didn't get better. - No, she didn't. 409 00:36:09,800 --> 00:36:12,155 - Why not? - The Doctor couldn't explain it. 410 00:36:12,320 --> 00:36:16,712 So it's inexplicable. A miraculous non-recovery. 411 00:36:16,880 --> 00:36:20,635 - We haven't found the reason yet. - But of course you will. 412 00:36:20,800 --> 00:36:24,759 You'll find all the answers eventually 413 00:36:24,920 --> 00:36:29,551 with enough time and study and the right sort of tools. 414 00:36:29,720 --> 00:36:34,078 - That's what you believe as a scientist? - Be honest. 415 00:36:36,280 --> 00:36:38,476 That's what I've always believed. 416 00:36:38,640 --> 00:36:43,555 Even when her science fails, she still has full confidence in it. 417 00:36:43,720 --> 00:36:46,678 Now there's a leap of faith. 418 00:36:46,840 --> 00:36:50,276 Unconditional trust. Now that's promising. 419 00:36:50,440 --> 00:36:52,556 Al right. 420 00:36:52,720 --> 00:36:57,271 If you're saying that science won't help Kes, what will? 421 00:36:57,440 --> 00:37:00,876 - You won't like it. - I'll do whatever's necessary. 422 00:37:02,280 --> 00:37:07,229 Kill her. She's as good as dead already. Finish the job. 423 00:37:07,400 --> 00:37:11,712 Give her another jolt of that... er, biogenic field. 424 00:37:11,880 --> 00:37:13,917 That would do it. 425 00:37:14,760 --> 00:37:17,878 - It would do what, exactly? - There you go again. 426 00:37:18,040 --> 00:37:21,874 Always looking for a rational explanation. There isn't one. 427 00:37:22,040 --> 00:37:27,797 Your orbital scans and medical research have given you the facts. 428 00:37:27,960 --> 00:37:32,318 And they tell you the biogenic field is lethal. 429 00:37:32,480 --> 00:37:34,790 If you believe the facts. 430 00:37:34,960 --> 00:37:36,871 Let all of that go, Kathryn. 431 00:37:37,040 --> 00:37:42,194 Take Kes back into the shrine and trust the spirits to return her soul. 432 00:37:45,000 --> 00:37:50,552 The ritual I went through is meaningless and Kes has not prepared herself. 433 00:37:50,720 --> 00:37:53,599 How could we be ready to go through the field? 434 00:37:53,760 --> 00:37:57,390 If you believe you are ready, then you are. 435 00:37:57,560 --> 00:38:00,712 There's no more to it than that. 436 00:38:00,880 --> 00:38:06,273 But if you go in with any doubt, with any hesitation, 437 00:38:06,440 --> 00:38:09,671 then you're both dead. 438 00:38:09,840 --> 00:38:13,720 So what are you going to do, Captain? 439 00:38:15,280 --> 00:38:19,558 You know I won't let Kes die if there's anything I can do to save her. 440 00:38:21,720 --> 00:38:24,633 I want to believe it's possible. 441 00:38:27,880 --> 00:38:29,837 I'm going to try. 442 00:38:33,600 --> 00:38:37,150 - Janeway to Chakotay. - We've been worried about you. 443 00:38:37,320 --> 00:38:41,393 I'm all right. I want you to beam Kes down here to the sanctuary. 444 00:38:41,560 --> 00:38:44,598 I'll bring her down myself. Chakotay to sickbay. 445 00:38:44,760 --> 00:38:47,559 Prepare Kes for transport. 446 00:39:02,160 --> 00:39:06,358 The Doctor says she's deteriorating. He didn't want us to move her. 447 00:39:06,520 --> 00:39:08,750 - You've found a way to help? - Yes. 448 00:39:08,920 --> 00:39:11,594 I'm taking her back into the biogenic field. 449 00:39:11,760 --> 00:39:14,798 I hate to question you, Captain, but why? 450 00:39:14,960 --> 00:39:19,955 - I believe it will save her life. - You have new information on the field? 451 00:39:20,120 --> 00:39:23,158 - I can't explain it. - Captain... 452 00:39:25,080 --> 00:39:28,835 - You've been through a lot. - I know what I'm doing. 453 00:39:29,920 --> 00:39:34,198 There are 800 megajoules of biogenic energy running through that shrine. 454 00:39:34,360 --> 00:39:38,957 The thoron radiation levels are off the scale. You'd be going into that. 455 00:39:39,120 --> 00:39:43,796 Take some time to think about this and let us run a few more scans. 456 00:39:44,960 --> 00:39:47,190 No. 457 00:39:47,360 --> 00:39:50,671 Captain, this isn't like you. 458 00:39:50,840 --> 00:39:55,550 You'll always have my gratitude for everything you've done to save Kes. 459 00:39:55,720 --> 00:40:00,351 But we couldn't ask you to risk your own life like this. 460 00:40:00,520 --> 00:40:03,592 - Too many other people need you. - He's right. 461 00:40:03,760 --> 00:40:08,357 I have to keep you safe, for the crew's sake if not for your own. 462 00:40:08,520 --> 00:40:12,275 I'd rather not relieve you of duty, but if your judgment's impaired... 463 00:40:12,440 --> 00:40:16,638 - He can't really do that, can he? - Yes, he can. 464 00:40:18,200 --> 00:40:22,512 I suppose it might be necessary if a captain were mentally impaired. 465 00:40:22,680 --> 00:40:26,674 But you're not crazy, Kathryn. You know that. 466 00:40:26,840 --> 00:40:31,630 These people were willing to let Kes die for disturbing their shrine. 467 00:40:31,800 --> 00:40:35,555 Can you take their word for it that you'll be safe in there? 468 00:40:35,720 --> 00:40:37,870 I can't give you my word on that. 469 00:40:38,040 --> 00:40:42,511 Nobody knows what will happen to them in the shrine until they go in. 470 00:40:42,680 --> 00:40:46,958 I don't know the answers. But you do. 471 00:40:57,240 --> 00:41:00,676 Captain, I don't understand this. 472 00:41:00,840 --> 00:41:05,516 Neither do I. That's the challenge. 473 00:41:53,480 --> 00:41:55,437 Kes... 474 00:42:02,040 --> 00:42:06,557 The tricorder readings of the shrine reveal traces of iridium ions, 475 00:42:06,720 --> 00:42:09,678 which we could have known about sooner. 476 00:42:09,840 --> 00:42:11,797 They're significant? 477 00:42:11,960 --> 00:42:15,919 They caused a dielectric effect in the outer epidermal layers, 478 00:42:16,080 --> 00:42:22,679 neutralising the energy enough to make the captain's biochemistry a defence. 479 00:42:22,840 --> 00:42:27,357 - Then how was I cured? - The metabolic treatment protected you 480 00:42:27,520 --> 00:42:29,670 when the captain took you through. 481 00:42:29,840 --> 00:42:33,879 That exposure functioned like a natural cortical stimulator 482 00:42:34,040 --> 00:42:36,600 and reactivated your synaptic pathways. 483 00:42:36,760 --> 00:42:39,070 That's fascinating, Doctor. 484 00:42:39,960 --> 00:42:42,713 Captain? 485 00:42:42,880 --> 00:42:45,838 If there's something you disagree with... 486 00:42:46,000 --> 00:42:49,072 It's a perfectly sound explanation, Doctor. 487 00:42:49,240 --> 00:42:52,949 Very... scientific.