Chapter Text
"Identify yourselves or we will open fire." For the first time in seven years, the universal translator didn't need to do its job. The hail was in Federation Standard.
"This is Captain Kathryn Janeway of the U.S.S. Voyager," Janeway answered. "I apologize for the method of our arrival -- "
"Try again," the voice said. "The truth this time."
Janeway exchanged a glance with Chakotay. "I know we used a Borg conduit, but we are who we say. We have no hostile intentions."
"This is your final warning. We will open fire."
Janeway signaled Harry to mute communications. "Shields up. Ensign Jenkins, get us out of here. Let's see if we can't find someone a little more welcoming to talk to."
Voyager rocked as the other ship opened fire. Janeway tightened her grip on her command chair. "Evasive maneuvers. Go to red alert, but do not power weapons."
"Captain, we're being hailed by a second ship."
"Let's hear it."
". . . that you surrender immediately or you will be destroyed."
"Three more ships have appeared on sensors, Captain. All appear to be Federation vessels and they are powering weapons."
"Harry, open a channel." Janeway met Chakotay's gaze briefly. "This is Captain Kathryn Janeway of the Federation starship Voyager. It seems we have a misunderstanding -- "
The ship rocked again.
"Six Federation vessels on scanners, Captain. Two are galaxy class."
"Shields at sixty percent."
Another jolting blast. Overtaxed power conduits threw sparks of protest.
"Three more ships on long range sensors."
"Shields at thirty percent."
". . . this is your final warning . . ."
