[They're too exhausted for philosophy, and that says something. Even Kaz can't muster speeches on how they're taken advantage of, of how they're junkyard hounds, bound to chains and derelict cars, waiting for rescue that might not come.]

[He's a survivalist, but he never wanted to live destitute. He survived so much that he wanted to earn things being easier. And things were easier for a time, but they've come with being helpless.]

[Something remarkable happens, though. Like some holiday miracle, V offers him words- I'm not too concerned. Got my best XO on the case. -and Kaz glances up from the big dog heads that are resting on his knees for their pettings. Spine a little straighter, brows tilting up, it's as if the acknowledgement does a wonder of good.]

[His work on the ship has been meaningless, by and large, efforts that have gone without results worth anything. But if his work meant something to this one person? Well, that's enough.]

[Okay some results would have been good, but this is still very nice.]

Thanks, Boss. You know I'll try to get us straightened out. Started up at least. Hell, it might be a lot easier with you here. Had to do it all on my own last time.