VSF Blessings: A Star Trek Fan Production
Episode 1: “I Am”
Written: 12-23-23
SCENE 1: INTRODUCTION
SOUND: Whispering…voices…Borg voices are heard…intermixed commands are given…”Earth will be assimilated”…”Life as you know it is over”…”Resistance is futile”…”We are Borg”…”We will add your biological and technological distinctiveness to our own.”
BORG 1: Lock on tractor beam.
The starship Enterprise’s defensive capabilities are unable to withstand us.
Resistance is futile.
Target Engineering.
Prepare to assimilate the Enterprise.
Earth’s assimilation will soon begin.
GOD 1: I am (In Jeremiah’s voice. Can barely hear over the Borg sounds.)
BORG 2: Sleep.
Sleeep.
Sleeeep.
GOD 2: I am. (Clear and in Jeremiah’s voice)
SOUND: Transport sounds followed by an explosion.
SOUND: Show Introduction Music
SCENE 2: ARCHBISHOP
REV JEREMIAH HOLLIS
VSF Blessings. A Star Trek Fan Production.,,
We may live in a broken world., A broken universe., There is good and evil, right and wrong, light and dark, but we can be the good., We can do what’s right., We can be the light,. And we can do it in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit., Amen.
SOUND: Vivaldi playing loudly but interrupted by door chime.
ARCHBISHOP JOHN MORGAN 1
Computer, pause music.
SOUND: Computer chirps as music stops.
ARCHBISHOP 2
Open.
SOUND: Door slides open.
ARCHBISHOP JOHN MORGAN 3
Father Jeremiah, come in. Have a seat. Thanks for coming.
SOUND: Door quietly slides closed.
REV JEREMIAH HOLLIS 1
No problem, Archbishop Morgan. How may I be of service?
ARCHBISHOP 4
Oh, call me John. We’ve known each other far too long to stand on formality in private. How are you doing, Jeremiah?
JEREMIAH 2
I’m doing well, John.
ARCHBISHOP 5
Yes, I know on paper you are doing well, but really, how are you? Being assimilated by the Borg, witnessing Wolf Three Five Nine, and then being on the precipice of assimilating Earth is not a trivial matter to simply get over, even for a Priest.
JEREMIAH 3
[Inhales.] You’re right, of course. But it’s been six months since you locked onto me and beamed me off that Borg cube. Your timing was impeccable, but I wish it could have happened sooner. I was subjected to…so much.
ARCHBISHOP 6
Beaming you off was a risk, but one we had to take. When the cube went dark, we had our moment. If we’d known what we know now, we would have transported off far more. Picard got all the press, but we’re lucky we were able to save you. But Jeremiah, you weren’t in control of yourself…
JEREMIAH 4
Yes, I know that. Thank you. I’ve been all through all of it with the counselors repeatedly. I’ve accepted my…predicament…my lack of choice…my experiences…as much as anyone can be expected to.
ARCHBISHOP 7
But?
JEREMIAH 5
I’m bored. I’ve enjoyed my retreats…my seclusions…my distractions. But it’s time to be useful again. I just hope that God has more in store for me than sulking and licking my wounds after all this. I was a Priest working within Starfleet, serving on starships. There were good people onboard the Lalo before we were assimilated. The Borg has been beaten back for now. I’m ready for something more.
ARCHBISHOP 8
I’m glad to hear you say that, Jeremiah. I’m confident you are ready. I think I have just the thing for you. Come with me.
JEREMIAH 6
Where are we going?
ARCHBISHOP 9
You’ll see.
SOUND: Keys being pressed. Transporting Out.
SCENE 3: SHIPYARD
SOUND: Transport materializing. Shipyard sounds.
ARCHBISHOP 10
Do you recognize where we are?
JEREMIAH 7
It appears to be a ship yard. I’m assuming the Vatican’s, with the V S F designations I’m seeing on each ship. Earth side, of course, with the Vatican Space Dock being directly above us in geosynchronous orbit. I’ve only ever seen pictures of the place.
ARCHBISHOP 11
You are correct, of course. All this falls under my purview as Archbishop. You may be surprised by the wide array of designs represented here with these ships. Most people are. From Vulcan and Andorian to Klingon and Betazoid, the Church has many needs. Our Engineers modify them all to our higher standards before we incorporate them into our fleet.
JEREMIAH 8
What types of modifications?
ARCHBISHOP 12
Most of these are for humanitarian purposes such as medical, transport, cargo, or diplomatic missions. If I may take the liberty to reverse an old adage, “The best offense is a good defense.” Our shield and defensive technologies would give Starfleet more than a run for their money. While the Church isn’t afraid to fight back when it is the only moral option left on the table, we have nothing to prove to anyone except God. We defend the innocent, our faith, and the Church, but it rarely takes phasers in the end.
JEREMIAH 9
I agree, but I could have used a few phase-adapted phasers when the Borg attacked the Lalo.
ARCHBISHOP 13
And you would have been morally justified against such a Godless foe.
JEREMIAH 10
So, why am I here?
ARCHBISHOP 14
Look to your right. This is an Aerie-class starship. It’s practically fresh off the assembly line. Our engineers have gotten their hands on it, of course, to make their alterations and enhancements. It’s the VSF Blessings.
JEREMIAH 11
Nice looking ship. I’ve never been on an Aerie class before. I’m not familiar with her specifications.
ARCHBISHOP 15
You soon will be. She’s yours.
JEREMIAH 12
Mine? What do you mean? Mine.
ARCHBISHOP 16
You should know by now, Jeremiah, that I mean what I say. She’s yours. You are now hereby promoted to Captain Jeremiah Hollis of the VSF Blessings. Your Starfleet leadership training and experience serving upon starships makes you more than ready. And before you protest that I’m skipping over some ranks, remember that we’re not Starfleet and we do things differently here. You’ll be Captain Hollis by rank and Father Jeremiah by calling, as is our tradition.
JEREMIAH 13
I’m speechless. Thank you. Thank you for both the opportunity and confidence in me.
ARCHBISHOP 17
You’re quite welcome. We have plans for this starship and you. Some of the missions won’t be so easy, but of extreme importance, of course. You’re the man for the job.
JEREMIAH 14
I didn’t walk into your office today expecting this. Give me a moment to wrap my head around it.
ARCHBISHOP 18
Everything you need to know will be found in the mission briefing in the Captain’s ready room. You’re the first to arrive. Your crew will start arriving in about 4 hours. Take the next two days to learn the ship, get to know the crew, and go on a test run to the edge of the solar system and back. Like I said, it’s all in the mission briefing.
JEREMIAH 15
Once again, thank you, John. You’ve always been there for my father and always been there for me. I will do my utmost best to live up to your belief in me.
ARCHBISHOP 19
I know you will, but enough of that now, before people start accusing me of favoritism. You’ve earned this, Jeremiah. Now go chase your calling…amongst the stars.
SOUND: Segue music.
SCENE 4: HIDDEN MISSION
ARCHBISHOP 20
Peace and blessing from God Almighty, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, may descend upon this starship and upon all who are going to be therein, and may remain forever. Amen.
GROUP 1: Amen
ARCHBISHOP 21
Captain Hollis, a word with you please. In your Ready Room.
JEREMIAH 16
Of course, Archbishop.
SOUND: Doors open and close.
ARCHBISHOP 22
As you know, your mission is to deliver medical equipment and supplies to the Devri colony, but what you don’t know yet is your mission will not end there.
JEREMIAH 17
What do you mean? Our mission brief says we are to return to Earth after the delivery.
ARCHBISHOP 23
Sorry for the secrecy, but it is of the highest importance that we keep this for ears only and off the comms and out of any current mission logs. This will all be recorded after the fact, I assure you. Do you understand?
JEREMIAH 18
Not entirely yet, but I do understand the instruction. Mum’s the word.
ARCHBISHOP 24
Good. As we were gathered on the bridge for the ship’s blessing ceremony, a very special “cargo,” shall we say, was brought aboard. It should now be locked within the diplomatic quarters. Pay it no mind UNTIL you have completed the delivery to Devri. Once completed, go to warp heading back to Earth as planned, and then…only then…visit the diplomatic quarters. Are my instructions clear?
JEREMIAH 19
Yes, perfectly clear.
ARCHBISHOP 25
Marvelous! By the end of the day, the mystery will at least be revealed. Then the rest of your mission’s journey begins. Remember, mum’s the word. Don’t even tell your crew until you visit the diplomatic quarters, first.
JEREMIAH 20
Understood.
ARCHBISHOP 26
Good luck. May God continue to bless you, Jeremiah.
JEREMIAH 21
Thank you. You, too, John.
ARCHBISHOP 27
Now let me get out of your way so you can get started.
SOUND: Door Open and close. Insert quiet, background door open and closed for Archbishop leaving bridge, too.
JEREMIAH 22
Brother Matthias, as soon as the Archbishop Morgan has left the ship, finalize our flight plans with Vatican Space Fleet command, and let’s get this ship off the ground.
BROTHER MATTHIAS 1
Aye, sir.
SOUND: Segue Music
SCENE 5: DIPLOMATIC QUARTERS
JEREMIAH 23
Captain’s Log, Stardate 44592.85. We have completed delivery of the medical equipment and supplies to the Devri colony. The VSF Blessings performed admirably, not only on the trip here but during the planetary landing sequence as well. The sensitive nature of the medical equipment made beaming it down to the surface “undesirable,” as the Devri Chief Medical Officer put it. The Blessings was the perfect starship for the job at hand. We have cleared the planet’s atmosphere and have just entered warp for our trip back to Earth.
SOUND: Sounds of access being denied as Jeremiah tries to open the diplomatic quarters.
Jeremiah 24 [Talking to self.]
Why won’t these doors to the diplomatic quarters open? I’m even using my override code. I wonder if I tried…
SOUND: Chime to door. Door opens.
BROTHER SUVEL 1
Captain Hollis, come in. I’ve been expecting you. I’m sure you have questions.
JEREMIAH 25
That’s an understatement, but yes, I do. So you’re the “cargo” the Archbishop spoke of?
BROTHER SUVEL 2
Yes, “we’re” the cargo.
JEREMIAH 26
“We?” Oh. Oohh! I see. Now I have even more questions.
BROTHER SUVEL 3
Let’s start with introductions, shall we? I am Brother Suvel. I am a caregiver for Brother Kellen here behind me.
JEREMIAH 27
Why is he levitating in the lotus position like that?
BROTHER SUVEL 4
Perhaps I should begin by explaining that Brother Kellen is a Quri monk in a deep meditative state. He has been in this state for approximately 65 years. It takes care from others to meditate for such extended periods of time, which is where caregivers like me come in. We must keep him hydrated, nourished, properly groomed, protected, and as undisturbed as possible. To avoid the impacts of sitting for all of those years, Brother Kellen is levitated using a null-gravity field and minute tractor beams for stability.
JEREMIAH 28
I think I remember Brother Kellen being on the holo news when he arrived at the Vatican over what…15…20 years ago? It was highly unorthodox for a monk to be transported during such a deep meditation.
BROTHER SUVEL 5
Yes, you have a good memory, Captain. Brother Kellen did make the global holo news at the time. Both his levitation and his rather desiccated appearance all garnered extra attention, even if the levitation was merely technology and the desiccation an artifact of the ceremonial oils and incense causing the superficial effect. He found this attention quite funny at the time, I am told.
JEREMIAH 29
Funny? How do you know that? He’s in a deep meditation.
BROTHER SUVEL 6
You don’t remember ALL the holo news I see. Just because a Quri monk is in a deep meditative state does not mean the mind slows to a near stop like the body. Although hyper focused, the mind is still rather active. We Quri are also telepaths. Some more so than others. Brother Kellen is unusually gifted. I am able to communicate with him telepathically.
JEREMIAH 30
Interesting. So why are you on my ship?
BROTHER SUVEL 7
We’re going home, back to the Quri monastery. It is time. Brother Kellen learned many deep truths of the universe during his stay on Earth, but he longs to return home.
JEREMIAH 31
So we’re your escort. I see. Why all the secrecy?
BROTHER SUVEL 8
It is purely out of necessity. Do you know the value of a Quri monk in a deep meditative state on the black market?
JEREMIAH 32
Value? No, I do not. There’s a monetary value put on a sentient being?
BROTHER SUVEL 9
Oh, most definitely. You could almost acquire the resources to build a Galaxy-class starship with what some people would pay to obtain such a monk for their personal collection. Legends say having a Quri monk with such a deep connection to the universe can help the captor find riches or conquer their enemies. All it takes is the right “persuasion” to get the monks to cooperate. There are people, even today, who still believe this, and would stop at nothing to obtain such an asset.
JEREMIAH 33
Do I even want to ask what you mean by “persuasion?”
BROTHER SUVEL 10
Slow, deliberate torture, typically.
JEREMIAH 34
This still doesn’t answer why you’re on my ship.
BROTHER SUVEL 11
It is a ruse. In Earth’s 20th century, the Hope diamond was mailed through the common postal system as a way to throw off thieves who may have been looking to steal it. The current hope is that by transporting Brother Kellen via a common Aerie-class ship on a common medical run, that any would-be abductors would be similarly stymied. So far so good.
JEREMIAH 35
Glad our common Aerie-class ship can be of service.
BROTHER SUVEL 13
I have been assured the VSF Blessings is anything but a common Aerie-class ship. Your Engineers installed the latest Vatican defensive, sensor, propulsion, and evasive technologies. Study the flight path and the directions I am sending you [Button sounds], and you will discover some of her uniqueness.
JEREMIAH 36
Archbishop Morgan still has a few tricks up his sleeve, I see.
BROTHER SUVEL 14
Indeed.
You’re going to want to study that flight plan now and review it with your helmsman and crew. It is important that we start the next leg of this journey as soon as possible.
JEREMIAH 37
Yes, you are quite right. I’m sure Brother Matthias is already curious about what you just sent.
BROTHER SUVEL 15
Thank you for your assistance in this matter.
JEREMIAH 38
Thank me when we get there safely.
SOUND: Segue music.
SCENE 6: COMMENCING MISSION
BROTHER MATTHIAS 2
Captain, I’ve studied the flight path the Quri monks provided us. I’m a decent helmsman, but I’m going to have to learn a few more tricks to pull this off. We’ll be skimming nebulae, backtracking more than once, and flying through an asteroid field. Brother Patrick is going to have his hands full down in Engineering, too. He’ll need to project our warp field into what appears to be multiple directions at once at various junctures and even emergency dissipate a warp bubble near the end. Are those things even possible? Is all this effort really necessary?
JEREMIAH 39
We must be confident they are, and Brother Suvel assures me it is more than necessary to ensure their safe passage. It is all designed to make following our warp signature as difficult as possible. The first leg of the journey appears to be relatively uneventful, except for starting with the unique warp field configuration. Is Brother Patrick ready?
BROTHER MATTHIAS 3
He reports he’s ready to see what happens.
JEREMIAH 40
Haha. Let’s hope he’s more confident than that. After prayer, let’s set course and begin. Open a ship-wide channel. [Chirp.] As we begin our journey to deliver Brothers Suvel and Kellen to their home, let us pray. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Lead us, O Lord, so that we will reach our destination in safety and happily return to our homes. We ask this through Christ our Lord. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. [Chirp to end broadcast.] Now let’s do this.
SOUND: Segue music.
SCENE 7: NEBULA SURPRISE
SOUND: Coming out of warp. Red Alert klaxons start.
JEREMIAH 41
Report! What’s happening?
BROTHER MATTHIAS 4
Orion ship, sir! Waiting for us as we came out of warp. The ship automatically detected the armed weapons and activated the red alert, bringing up shields immediately.
SOUND: Incoming message
BROTHER MATTHIAS 4.5
Incoming message, Sir. Text only. It says to hand over Brother Kellen, and they’ll let the rest of us go. How do I reply?
JEREMIAH 41.5
Don’t. That’s not an option we’ll accept.
SOUND: Sound of ship being hit by fire again.
JEREMIAH 42
Evasive maneuvers! We’re here for the nebula. Take us in.
BROTHER MATTHIAS 5
Aye, sir!
SOUND: Sound of ship being hit by fire again.
JEREMIAH 43
Status?
BROTHER MATTHIAS 6
Shields are holding well, Sir. No damage reported.
JEREMIAH 44
Either the shields are stronger than I thought, which would not be surprising, or they aren’t trying to destroy us just yet. They want Brother Kellen first. Turn off that alarm!
SOUND: Alarm sound ends. Computer sound for files received.
BROTHER MATTHIAS 7
I just received another file from Brother Suvel. It’s…a detailed map of the nebula, Captain! I’m studying it now…
JEREMIAH 45
That monk keeps feeding us the information we need just when we need it. I wonder what other information he’s holding back?
BROTHER MATTHIAS 8
I’ve got it, Sir! I’ve found a route that the Blessings can fit through but the Orion ship would find far more difficult if not impossible. The radiation of the nebula should mask our warp trail as we exit. The closer we warp to the nebula, the better.
JEREMIAH 46
Good job.
SOUND: Sound of ship being hit by fire again.
JEREMIAH 47
Looks like they found us again. How much longer until we implement your plan?
BROTHER MATTHIAS 9
Just a few more minutes, sir.
SOUND: Sound of ship being hit by fire again.
JEREMIAH 48
We need every advantage we can get.
SOUND: Comm Badge Chirp
JEREMIAH 49
Hollis to Brother Patrick, Brother Suvel mentioned evasive technologies installed on the Blessings. What do we have that can help in this situation? We need to buy us some time so we can make our break for it up ahead.
BROTHER PATRICK 1
Captain, I’ve been studying the specs since the systems were unencrypted after we started this phase of the mission. I think the Blitz may be just what we need. It’s a multi-spectrum corona discharge from our shields. It should temporarily blind our pursuer’s sensors. The catch is that it will temporarily blind ours, too.
JEREMIAH 50
I guess that means we must make our plans before using it, and then fly on faith for just a bit. Brother Matthias, program the exact timings and headings of your course in detail and give it over to the computer to run blind. Brother Patrick, when can you be ready to execute the Blitz?
SOUND: Sound of ship being hit by fire again.
BROTHER PATRICK 2
Actually, now, Captain. It was automatically charged and ready when the red alert started.
JEREMIAH 51
Brother Matthias, is your course ready?
BROTHER MATTHIAS 10
Ready, Sir. I pray I didn’t miss anything and that the nebula map we have is spot on.
JEREMIAH 52
May God protect us all. Let’s do this. Now!
SOUND: Computer sounds of commands being entered. Sound of Blitz corona discharge. Static sound as sensors are blind.
BROTHER MATTHIAS 11
We are flying sensor-blind sir. I hope they are, too.
JEREMIAH 53
If not, I’m sure we’ll soon find out.
BROTHER MATTHIAS 12
Computer implementing roll now. This is where it starts to get tight for them. Either they’ll continue going forward into denser regions of the nebula, try to stop without sensors, which should be equally as interesting, or try to follow us and still be stymied by the nebula.
JEREMIAH 54
Good. Are we almost there?
BROTHER MATTHIAS 13
Yes, this is the part where we punch through and go to warp in 5…4…3…2…1…
SOUND: Warp sound.
SOUND: Segue music.
SCENE 8: BROTHER KELLEN
JEREMIAH 55
Brother Suvel, you were wanting to see me?
BROTHER SUVEL 16
Actually, it was Brother Kellen who requested your presence, Captain.
JEREMIAH 56
Oh. How does that work?
BROTHER SUVEL 17
Ordinarily, I would act as the interface between the two of you.
JEREMIAH 57
Ordinarily?
BROTHER SUVEL 18
Yes, except this time Brother Kellen is requesting a direct telepathic connection with you. That is if you accept. It’s quite an unusual request from him, but it’s been done before. Telepathic connections can be quite…mentally intimate. Brother Kellen sensed some unanswered questions within you…an incompleteness…almost an enigma. It’s hard for him to describe, but he knows it weighs upon you. He would like to talk with you.
JEREMIAH 58
I…I don’t know…
BROTHER SUVEL 19
He would understand if you refused. He wanted to ask.
JEREMIAH 59
Do you think I should accept?
BROTHER SUVEL 20
Brother Kellen is an immensely wise and caring individual. If he’s taken a moment from his deep meditation to focus upon you, I would not take it lightly. I can almost guarantee you would benefit from it. People always do.
JEREMIAH 60
There is something. How could he know? I mean, I know how he knows, but I didn’t expect him to take much notice of me. What do I have to lose at this point? I’ll do it.
BROTHER SUVEL 21
Wonderful. Now step this way…
JEREMIAH 61
Wait, before we do this, I want to ask you something first. Each time we have faced a new obstacle on this journey, such as the Orions in the nebula or the Ferengi near the asteroid field, you sent my helmsman detailed data that helped us tremendously. How about instead of waiting for the last minute, you send us what else you have so we actually have time to study it and be ready beforehand? I appreciate that you’ve been helpful but don’t like that you’re holding out on us.
BROTHER SUVEL 22
You are quite right, Captain. You and your crew have proven to be quite trustworthy. I will forward you what else I have. I’m sorry for playing our cards so close to the chest, as you humans say.
JEREMIAH 62
Thank you. Now let’s do this telepathic connection thing. I’m looking forward to truly meeting Brother Kellen.
BROTHER SUVEL 23
And he you. Sit down in front of him, please. Legs crossed. Yes, like that. Just make yourself comfortable. I have lowered Brother Kellen just a bit so you should now be able to rest your right hand upon his left hand easily enough.
JEREMIAH 63
Like this?
BROTHER SUVEL 24
Yes, like that. Gently, of course. Now close your eyes and do your best to empty your mind…
JEREMIAH 64
[Echoing] Hello?
BROTHER KELLEN 1
Hello, Jeremiah Hollis.
JEREMIAH 65
[Echoing] Hello, Brother Kellen. It’s nice to meet you.
BROTHER KELLEN 2
And you.
JEREMIAH 66
[Echoing] So…you wanted to see me?
BROTHER KELLEN 3
Yes.
JEREMIAH 67
[Echoing] About what?
BROTHER KELLEN 4
The Borg.
JEREMIAH 68
[Echoing] I knew you were going to say that. That’s a hard subject for me.
BROTHER KELLEN 5
I know.
JEREMIAH 69
[Echoing] What do you want to know about the Borg?
BROTHER KELLEN 6
Show me.
JEREMIAH 70
[Echoing] Show you what?
BROTHER KELLEN 7
The Borg. Think about the Borg.
BORG 3
Resistance is futile.
BROTHER KELLEN 8
You are holding back.
JEREMIAH 71a
[Echoing] I don’t want to think about the Borg.
BROTHER KELLEN 8.5
Show me.
JEREMIAH 71 b
I don’t know where to start?
BROTHER KELLEN 9
Start at the end where it began.
JEREMIAH 72
[Echoing] I think I know what you mean. That’s the part that fills my dreams the most. My nightmares.
BORG 4
[Repeat the Borg introduction scene up to “Target Engineering.”]
JEREMIAH 73
[Echoing] I couldn’t stop it.
BROTHER KELLEN 10
Continue.
BORG 5
[Continue recording up to “I am.”]
BROTHER KELLEN 11
Wait. What was that? A faint voice. In the background.
JEREMIAH 74
[Echoing] I think it’s me…or what was left of me. I had no control over anything. Not my limbs, not my voice, not even my mind, but I fought so hard. It’s the simplest complete sentence in Federation Standard: “I am.” It must have been all I could get out. I don’t remember saying it, but I was beaten. It was my voice. What little was left of it.
BROTHER KELLEN 12
Continue.
BORG 6
[Continue up to the final “I am.”]
[Overlay Brother Kellen’s voice saying, “I am,” too.]
BROTHER KELLEN 13
[Gasps slowly and painfully in real life.]
JEREMIAH 75
Brother Kellen! What’s wrong?
BROTHER SUVEL 25
What have you done? Brother Kellen cannot be moved! What have you done?
SOUND: Segue music
SCENE 9: VOICE OF GOD
SOUND: Medical Scanner and Sickbay Sounds
JEREMIAH 76
How’s Brother Kellen?
BROTHER THOMAS 1
He’s been stabilized. While his body has been kept in a well-preserved condition by his caregivers, suddenly awaking from his deep meditation was both a physical and mental shock. He tore muscles and tendons when he opened his mouth and eyes to gasp and grabbed your hand. We are working on repairing that damage right now. His pain has been neutralized for the time being.
BROTHER SUVEL 26
Captain, I’m glad you’re here. Yes, luckily his awakening was very short lived. I apologize for my outburst earlier.
JEREMIAH 77
Think nothing of it. I completely understand given the circumstances.
BROTHER SUVEL 27
While such things happen, there has not been a sudden awakening within my lifespan. Brother Kellen has returned to his meditative state again, thankfully.
BROTHER THOMAS 2
I should get back to Brother Kellen, now.
JEREMIAH 78
Of course. Please do.
Brother Suvel, sorry we don’t have a full medical doctor onboard. Brother Thomas wears several hats, one of which is med tech.
BROTHER SUVEL 28
Brother Thomas’s medical technician skills have been more than adequate to stabilize him until our Quri medical facilities can do more.
JEREMIAH 79
Are you able to communicate with Brother Kellen?
BROTHER SUVEL 29
Oh, yes. He has quite the fortitude, both mentally and physically.
JEREMIAH 80
Did he explain what happened?
BROTHER SUVEL 30
He did. He was very insistent that I tell you this was not your fault, and he is glad this happened.
JEREMIAH 81
Glad, why?
BROTHER SUVEL 31
Glad because he says he heard the voice of God.
JEREMIAH 82?
Wait, what? The voice of God? When?
BROTHER SUVEL 32
During your connection. In your memory of your last moments on the Borg cube.
JEREMIAH 83
What did God supposedly say?
BROTHER SUVEL 33
I am.
JEREMIAH 84
No, that was me. That was in my voice.
BROTHER SUVEL 34
And Brother Kellen heard it in his voice.
JEREMIAH 85
I don’t understand.
BROTHER SUVEL 35
Let me try to explain. The experience of growing up on a world with telepaths is different than that of humans on Earth. Experiences can be shared directly rather than just word of mouth or the written word. When a Quri mentally connects with another sentient being, the memories shared are from just one perspective…that of the person with the original experience. There are documented instances where this does not hold true, though. Where each person experiences something within a memory from their OWN perspective. In their own voice. It is the Quri belief this is the voice of God. It always involves a group with a single, common message. It always involves some sort of all-encompassing strife and the extreme need for God. It always speaks from a place deeper than just the mind. It speaks from the soul. This is what Brother Kellen says he experienced in your memory. This is what has been unsettling you most, he says. You felt it was different.
JEREMIAH 86
I heard it. It sounded like me. But it never felt like me in the way I know me. He’s right about that. I just couldn't quite put my finger on it.
BROTHER SUVEL 36
He believes all the Borg heard it, too, on the cube. A vast many heard it.
JEREMIAH 87
And if it was the voice of God, what did it do? What did it accomplish? All but two died on that cube. They didn’t have long to think about it.
BROTHER SUVEL 37
Perhaps that was enough. A spark of hope knowing they had never truly been abandoned. Only God knows.
JEREMIAH 88
Only God knows.
BROTHER SUVEL 38
And you have the rest of your life to think about it.
SOUND: Segue music
SCENE 10: ARRIVED
SOUND: Bridge and ship background noise
BROTHER MATTHIAS 14
Captain, we have arrived at the coordinates of the Quri monastery. According to our sensors, there’s nothing here except empty space.
JEREMIAH 89
Give it a moment. Brother Suvel said to let them come to us. They’re very secretive about the location of this particular monastery.
SOUND: Notification sound
BROTHER MATTHIAS 15
A shuttle just appeared out of nowhere. It is heading towards us now. What should we do?
JEREMIAH 90
Let it dock. We’ve been told to maintain complete comm silence out here. The monastery must be using a stealth technology. Inform Brother Suvel of their pending arrival. I’ll go down and greet them and ensure our current guests have a smooth transition. You keep an eye on things from up here.
BROTHER MATTHIAS 16
Aye, Sir.
SOUND: Segue music
SCENE 11: FOLLOW-UP CALLS
JEREMIAH 91
Captain’s Log, Stardate 44631.5. We are headed back to Earth now. It’s been a long week, but..
SOUND: Incoming message
JEREMIAH 92
Computer, end Captain’s Log and delete current entry. Answer incoming call.
SOUND: Deletion sound and answering sound.
JEREMIAH 93
Hello Archbishop Morgan. I was wondering when I would hear from you.
ARCHBISHOP 28
Hello Jeremiah. It’s good to see you. You’ve had quite the adventure. I told you that you were the man for the job. Very well done. Thank you.
JEREMIAH 94
You’re welcome. It was quite the convoluted journey. It’s taking half as long to get back as it took to get there.
ARCHBISHOP 29
Yes, the course you took was quite intentionally planned, I can assure you. Brother Suvel had a hand in it, too. With such valuable cargo, we did not want you being followed nor predicted.
JEREMIAH 95
And yet somehow people seemed to find us along the way.
ARCHBISHOP 30
About that. That was planned as well, sort of.
JEREMIAH 96
So you’re telling me we had a secret mission within a secret mission?
ARCHBISHOP 31
You always were a quick study, Jeremiah. We’ve had bad actors keeping an eye on Brother Kellen for years. Just waiting for their opportunity. We were always successful in foiling their plans but NOT in catching the individuals responsible. Brother Kellen actually came up with the original idea of making his trip home an irresistible trap. There were multiple routes you could have taken and each one was drawn up as a mission flight plan. They all intersected at key points with the true flight plan, which you had. When they showed up along your route, the pattern quickly pointed back to who the nefarious individuals actually were.
JEREMIAH 97
Did you catch them?
ARCHBISHOP 32
Red handed. They have been quickly and efficiently incarcerated with trial dates set. As suspected and hoped, it was no one from the Church. It was a third-party supplier whom we’ve worked with for generations, sadly. The children are nothing like their parents. We’ve learned a lot from this.
JEREMIAH 98
Is that the end of it all then? We’re not secretly involved in another mission within a secret within a plan are we?
ARCHBISHOP 33
Oh, my boy, this is the end of it all. Your mission is over. You’re coming home. Honestly, this is the most intricate episode I’ve ever been this deeply involved in. It was actually kind of fun, don’t you think?
JEREMIAH 99
You weren’t the one with a telepathic monk probing around inside your head.
ARCHBISHOP 34
And hearing God. I’ve read both your report and Brother Suvel’s. Very interesting, indeed. Earth’s Christian experience shares so many similarities with that of the Quri. It’s uncanny at times, but they are a different race with different abilities and cultural influences as well. This is a new experience and concept for us. It has been referred to the Dicastery for the Doctrine of Faith to determine its validity. They may have questions for you in the future, but you giving Brother Kellen permission to share your memory with others may preclude many of them.
Do you think you heard God when you were on that Borg cube?
JEREMIAH 100
I’m not sure. Part of me would like to think that I truly did. Another part of me is scared that I actually did. Surviving the Borg was miraculous enough. I’ll be curious to learn what the Dicastery determines, but I do know one thing for sure.
ARCHBISHOP 35
And what is that?
JEREMIAH 101
That my faith does not rest upon whether I did or did not hear God’s voice. My faith is independent of all that. If anything, the entire experience has only made it stronger.
ARCHBISHOP 36
And one can scarcely ask for more. Safe journey home, Jeremiah. I’m proud to call you my friend and colleague.
JEREMIAH 102
Same here, John. Same here.
SOUND: End communication.
JEREMIAH 103
Ok, let’s try this again. (Computer chirp.) Captain’s Log, Stardate 44631.5. We’re headed back to Earth. It’s been a long week filled with…
SOUND: Incoming message
JEREMIAH 104
What? Computer, stop Captain’s Log and delete current entry. Answer incoming message.
JAMES HOLLIS 1
Hi, son! Hope I’ve called at a convenient time.
JEREMIAH 105
I’ll always make time for you, Dad. How’s it going?
JAMES HOLLIS 2
Very well, son, very well. I hear John had you gallivanting around the galaxy doing his bidding.
JEREMIAH 106
Something like that. I can tell you all about it when we get back to Earth. Want to do dinner?
JAMES HOLLIS 3
I would love to, son, but it may have to wait. I’m heading out on my own little mission shortly.
JEREMIAH 107
Saving the galaxy again, Dad?
JAMES HOLLIS 4
One person at a time. You know me.
JEREMIAH 108
Yes, I know you. Just be careful. We can’t afford to lose any more Hollises.
JAMES HOLLIS 5
Speaking of that, how are you holding up. You look good.
JEREMIAH 109
Honestly, Dad, some days are easier than others, but despite all I’ve been through, I can still see so much good in this universe. So much light. It helps chase away the darkness, like you taught me.
JAMES HOLLIS 6
I’m proud of you, son. I’m always here if you need me. You know that, right?
JEREMIAH 110
I know that, Dad.
JAMES HOLLIS 7
Love you, Jeremiah.
JEREMIAH 111
I love you, too, Dad.
SOUND: Segue music
SCENE 12: END CREDITS
NARRATOR
You have been listening to VSF Blessings, a Star Trek fan production. Episode 1, “I Am.”
Created, written, produced, directed, and audio engineered by James McDonald. Story consultation provided by Noah McDonald. All character voices were generated using ElevenLabs AI voice generator. Sound effects from Pixabay.com under free-use content licenses and Trekcore.com.
Star Trek and all related marks, logos, and characters are solely owned by CBS Studios Inc. This fan production is not endorsed by, sponsored by, nor affiliated with CBS, Paramount Pictures, or any other Star Trek franchise, and is a non-commercial fan-made production intended for recreational use. No commercial exhibition or distribution is permitted. No alleged independent rights will be asserted against CBS or Paramount Pictures.
Until next time, be the good, do what’s right, and be the light.
SOUND: End Music