Distant Origin

Voth scientist Professor Gegen and his assistant Veer find human remains on a planet where Voyager's crew were once stranded, and genetic markers suggest a link between the Voth and humans. Gegen believes his people did not originate in the Delta Quadrant but evolved elsewhere, a theory that defies Voth doctrine. Tracking Voyager, the pair board it in secret, and the Doctor's analysis confirms the connection: the Voth are descended from hadrosaurs that once lived on Earth. When they are discovered, Veer takes Chakotay to the Voth city ship, and Gegen asks Chakotay to help him present his case. Minister Odala puts Gegen on trial for heresy, pressures Veer to testify against him and threatens Voyager and its crew. Chakotay speaks eloquently for the courage of their shared ancestors, but to save Voyager Gegen recants. Before parting, Chakotay gives him a globe of Earth, a reminder that the truth will wait.