Night Thoughts

by Sonri

Disclaimer: No, I don't own them. I'm sure not making money off this. Why do I do this, then? Because my muse won't shut up, and it might if I actually write it down.

Author's Note: I find it immensely entertaining to watch an episode from the point of view of one of the characters, to think of what would have been running through their mind. I also think that even in the 24th century, the concept of the "winter time blues" due to lack of light still apply in their own way. Anyway, in that vein, I'm taking on the reaction of the crew to the captain's return to action in "Night".

The corridor was dark, and Neelix was just beginning to get enough air in his lungs. That light from the wrist beacon on Commander Chakotay's arm was not much to pin one's comfort on, but it was better than the nothingness of the pitch black.

Wait, that was movement! he thought. He grabbed the commander's shoulder to inform him of what he'd seen. The hesitation conveyed the commander's concern that Neelix's fear might have conjured up the thought of something. Neelix for a moment questioned himself. No, this wasn't his mind's eye playing tricks. His gut feeling was telling him otherwise. He insisted that he'd seen the commander, and they moved down the corridor slowly. As he heard the breathing, he felt a touch vindicated that his mind hadn't been playing tricks, but a touch of fear and concern was seeping in.

As they turned the corridor and the light revealed the alien, which then charged them, Neelix's fight or flight response kicked in. Then, the alien reeled as an orange beam struck it. Neelix turned to see who had fired the weapon.

Tracking the running alien, was the one person Neelix had wanted to see – Captain Janeway. He'd only raised his concern at the briefing recently.

"Follow me."

To the ends of the universe, Captain! Drawing strength from the fact that she was once again leading, peace settled over him. Everything would be fine now. "Yes, ma'am," was all he said, but the feeling beneath it went far deeper than those words could ever carry.

AN: I'm debating on continuing with other characters, or leaving it as is. Suggestions are welcome, as are reviews. I admit I'm out of practice in my fiction writing, so kindly keep any flames to a minimum.