Post Number 186Meeting The Sleepers

Posted on Sat Oct 21st, 2023 @ 5:40pm by Commodore Cyndi Song & Lieutenant Commander Kristian Long & Lieutenant Tara Herculoid PhD & Captain Rogue Green {Meji} & Major Jackson "JJ" Barnes {Meji} & Lieutenant Sabbath & Lieutenant JG Sheyla {Meji} & Chief Warrant Officer Niraasha "Nira" Whisperwind

Mission: Wedding Blues And Trouble
Location: Sick Bay

ON:

Tara and Sabbath walked into sick bay, Kristian seeing them walk in headed over to them.

"What brings you two here?" Kristian asked, seeing the other officer in science blue "I'm Doctor Long the CMO welcome."

"This is my new boss, Sabbath, he wanted to look at the beings from the sleeper ship," Tara said.

" Doctor it is agreeable to make you acquaintance. I am fascinated by the physiology of these beings. Has the Cardassian been identified?" Sabbath asked.

"If you mean the one who has passed, no I've not done anything with his body as I don't want to offend the Cardassian's. The ones in the sleeper pods have not been woken up yet. I've started the process, it takes time," Kristian said

" I understand the process Doctor. Are you awaiting word from the Commodore before you begin identifying the Cardassian? Given their internal struggles the loss of even a single member is most disheartening. " Sabbath replied.

Sheyla had been standing close by, medical tricorder in hand and observing the scan data while at the same time maintaining the cryogenic awakening. The pods were advanced enough to keep the occupants alive and in stasis, but not as advanced as others when it came to the time for opening. If they were forced awake too soon then hibernation sickness could result, which could leave them blind or deaf, or even worse, for a limited amount of time. As a medical doctor Sheyla would not take that chance. "The Cardassian Union has come a long way since the Dominion war." Said Sheyla. "But, they are known to have a touch of xenophobia naturally, and this means that all we are doing will be perceived with suspicion until we can put them at ease." Her gaze moved from the holographic screen to the other two.

Kristian checked on the progress of the sleeper pods for a few minutes before turning her attention back to Herculoid, Sabbath and Shelya "The only question I received from Commander Green is are Cardassians military, with badges and such to denote service? Or are they something to do with sciences."

"I'm curious as to why they're even aboard the sleeper ship if this is an arranged marriage. Unless someone does not want this wedding to take place," Tara commented

" Is this other species in the data banks?" Sabbath asked.

"No," Kristian replied "I let the computer run the markings and such through the Federation Data Base and it was not able to determine anything so I turned to Lieutenant Herculoid, she carries a minor degree in languages and she was able to figure it out."

" Curious. My parents taught me the Vulcan ritual of the mind meld. I have used this several times should the need arise Doctor." Sabbath offered.

"I'll keep it in mind, but not every species can handle that," Kristian commented

"And we know very little about them," Tara said.

Sheyla remained stoic while listening to the others. Mister Sabbath volunteering to do a mind meld was interesting considering that most Vulcans only did so when absolutely necessary. The mind meld worked both ways, and the individual performing it will leave bits and pieces of their own memories within the mind of the recipient. It was a give and take, unless the recipient was completely unconscious and unable to form thoughts. Cardassians were all put through stringent educational programs in their youth, and because of it all Cardassians had eidetic memory. If one haphazardly gave information during a mind meld, then a Cardassian would never forget what was learned.

All this passed through her mind as she casually tapped keys on the medical monitors. Also, Sheyla found it disconcerting that anyone would think to invade another's mind while they were unconscious and not determined to be a threat. It could backfire badly and end any, and all, future diplomacy. "Why don't we just wait until they're awake." Sheyla said, looking to those around her. "Invading one's privacy just to expedite your own curiosity is both rude and disrespectful."

Kristian nodded "I agree, I once dated a Vulcan, he attempted a mind meld on me and it was very painful."

"There is one of the species awake, a man called Dornboss," Tara said.

"The only way I'll permit a mind meld is if everyone agrees to it. As Tara said we don't know enough about this species or what it could do to them. I only know my experience was painful. My head felt as if it were going to explode," Kristian commented.

Sheyla, being a physician, had researched mind melds in depth. As a part of her research she had even taken an assignment to the Vulcan embassy on Earth just after graduating the Academy. It was considered a post-graduate experience, and having been around the Vulcan staff, she had asked many of them queries in regards to the practice. They found it both logical and agreeable to share their insights into the practice that was once forbidden to the Vulcan populace. "That means he was doing it wrong, Doctor. It sounds like he was being too forceful and not allowing your mind time to adjust to the invasion. Instead of your minds becoming one he had caused your mind to go into defensive mode. I experienced it once, myself. It was not uncomfortable in the physical sense, just disconcerting since there are many things in my memory I don't want others to see as I grew up on Andoria. We Andorians are more aggressive than Humans and Vulcans, and there are times when a challenge must be met. In other words; duels of honor."

Doctor Sheyla switched gears to go further into the waking of the guests. "This Dornboss should be here when these pods open. Having a familiar face for them to see as they come to could prove beneficial."

"Perhaps he was a little forceful, and I should try it again," Kristian replied "Dornboss is in guest quarters, I'll have him brought here." Kristian tapped her com-badge "Security please have Mr. Dornboss brought to sick bay. Remember he's guest. The commodore has already met him."

Sabbath awaited the arrival of this newly discovered species. Despite being Vulcan Sabbath had grown up among the natives of the earth Yucatan and especially the Amazon's of Brazil. They too were hard to meld with even in the 24th century.

The Quantion male Dornboss walked in, seeing Doctor Long and Lieutenant Herculoid walked over to where they were but not before he paused a few minutes to look at Princess Zorreen's chamber. "Doctor Long I was requested to be here. Is her majesty alright?"

Kristian nodded "The Princess is fine, this is Lieutenant Sabbath the science chief and this is Shelya one of my doctors. They wanted to meet you."

Sabbath stood at an at ease pose and nodded to the approaching being.

Dornboss looked at Sabbath and Shelya then back to Long whom he'd spoken to several times. "Doctors and Sabbath how soon before the rest of them wake up?"

"It shouldn't be too long now," Kristian assured him.

" Forgive my forwardness but what is your connection with the Cardassians ?" Sabbath asked.

Dornboss looked at the sleeping Princess for a few minutes then back to Sabbath "Our Princess is to marry a Cardassian called Peck in hopes that it will bring our two worlds to peace."

Having used her tricorder to do a silent request for both Chief Nira and Captain Barnes, Sheyla remained silent as the little meeting got started. After they had all said their pieces, in walked the Security Chief and the Acting Marine Commander. "Captain, Chief, thank you for coming," said Sheyla, in greeting, to let the others knw she had called them here. "The sleepers are about to come to so I wanted to have you both here for the sake of Safety."

"Thank you," said Nira. "I remember coming aboard in a very similar manner. It can be disconcerting, and some species react badly to strange surroundings."

Barnes grinned and nodded along, his grin a little broader as he gave a distinct nod to Sheyla, before looking back to the others. "I wouldn't miss it. Thanks for letting the grunts be a part of this." By the way he was acting there was more to him being here than mere duty.

Sheyla remained stoic but if anyone understood Andorian antennae waving and movement, one could tell that there was a vested interest from her in regards to Barnes. Like reading the signs of a cat moving its tail. To the uninitiated, everything seemed normal.

"Please keep weapons holstered, last thing we need is panic from these people," Kristian said as she nodded to Shelya, Herculoid and Sabbath "Let's meet our guests. Tara your also the chief diplomatic officer. Doctor Shelya let's wake them up."

Kristian set to work checking the readings as she began to revive the sleeping guests. The process took several minutes, raised the covers on the pods opened. "They'll be awake in several minutes." she tapped her com-badge "Commodore this is Long, the sleepers are waking up."

Dornboss walked over and stood next to the Princesses pod while the sleepers were beginning to awaken.

Sabbath then looked towards Tara's way and whispered into her left ear.

" I want you to do more research concerning these people and where they are from. Given the condition of the Cardassian's following the Dominion war it is odd they would agree to a marriage. Cardassia has no royal family."

"That does not mean a Royal cannot marry someone if importance or a commoner. But I will research it," Tara whispered back "The commodore is a Royal her her husband is a commoner."

" Perhaps to you but among Starfleet the Admiral is highly revered." Sabbath spoke louder than he meant too as he defended his former professor.

Princess Zoreen woke up and sat up in her tube and looked at those around her. She got out of her tube and Dornboss went to steady her "I am Princess Zoreen, why are you not on your knees before a Princess?"

Sabbath raised hisneye brow and remembered a time on Earth among the native Brazilian tribes of such occasions.

Nira and Barnes had moved to positions on either side of the group of Starfleet personnel, where they could react without hindrance but remained aloof and to the side. Sheyla remained near to the pod holding the eldest of the Cardassians. At least, he looked to be the oldest. Age was revered among Cardassians, and their culture was one of influence. Being in the right inner circle for a Gul or a Legate was considered quite an accomplishment, and it always brought unwavering loyalty from those they would sponsor for various reasons. These Cardassians wore no military badges that she could see but that did not mean that the eldest was not a Legate; a person of importance and standing within Cardassian hierarchy. When this Princess said what she said Sheyla's antennae perked up and as she angled her head to look at the woman, the cups on the ends were focused on the woman. Like Sabbath, she too raised an eyebrow.


"Oh boy, here we go," said Barnes under his breath.

Cyndi having been alerted that the Princess was awake had entered sick bay just in time to hear the comment about being on knees before a Princess. Cyndi walked forward and came to stand next to Long "Mi Lady, I'm the ship's commanding officer. I'm Commodore Cyndi Song and I welcome you aboard my ship," she looked at her assembled officers, and nodded to them indicating to show the Princess some courtesy. Cyndi, Tara and Kristian dropped a low curtsy to the Princess.

"Your Highness not every culture or custom understands the kneeling or bowing. "I'm Lieutenant Herculoid the chief diplomatic officer and I'll be happy to answer any questions you may have."

Zoreen's eyes swept the room and then back to Song "I trust I have accommodations suitable for a Princess."

"Guest quarters have been prepared for you and as soon as the medical staff are sure your okay I'll have you shown to your quarters,"Cyndi said

"It's bad enough I'm to be mated to a Cardassian," Zoreen said "I want an entire deck cleared for me."

Nira cleared her throat politely. "Princess Zoreen, that is not going to happen. I am Chief Nira, head of Security. If you require an entire section of VIP suites just for you, that can be arranged, however." She gave a slow bow from the neck, her eyes locked on Zoreen's until it was completed. "Welcome aboard, Princess. Perhaps this little meet will bring a new era of contact between your people and the Federation."

"Princess, the VIP quarters are large and you will find them suitable. Your not the first Royal I've had aboard and your not going to be the last. I cannot and will not clear an entire deck for you," Cyndi said "I strongly suggest you accept the quarters my chief operations officer has had prepared for you."

"And what do you mere commoners know of Royalty? I'm a Princess and expect to be treated as such," Zoreen retorted

Cyndi nodded to Tara and then to Kristian "I'm a Princess, as is Lieutenant Herculoid, Doctor Long is the lieutenant's cousin making her a Royal. Starfleet does not recognize titles and the three of us do not acknowledge it as long as we serve in Starfleet. Our parents felt and we agree that it is a good thing that we learn to handle things so when we have to return to our planets and take our titles then we'll be more prepared do do so. None of us are treated any different. Doctor is she good to leave sick bay?"

Kristian nodded as she ran a scan "She is commodore."

Sabbath continued to observe from his position. It was fascinating to watch how others interacted with new species.

Nira, once more cleared her throat, but this time it was meant for the little royal brat. The Puazi woman even took a stride in the direction of the Princess, her eyes locked onto that of their guest. "First; Princess Zoreen, you need to be respectful and thankful. If not for the timely arrival of the USS Amandora, you would more than likely be dead as of now due to exposure to the rigors of space. We took it upon ourselves to check your vessel, and upon finding it SEVERELY lacking in maintenance, we beamed you over here to save your lives. "Second;" Nira angled her face and gave a nod towards Cyndi. "Commodore Song is Matriarch of this vessel. What she says, goes. We will accommodate you as is our way with visitors, you absolute respect and diplomacy. Right up until you begin to expect things and treat us as your staff, not your hosts." She stopped speaking, staring directly into Zoreen's eyes.

Rogue had come in while the Princess had awoken from her hiber-state. She had heard everything but remained hidden amongst the medical staff, making herself 'smaller'. After Nira's confrontation Green waited to see what would come next. It looked to be high time for Number One to rear her ugly head.

"Lieutenant Johnson has us heading to Cardassia at warp one. You Princess are my guest along with everyone aboard your ship. Your stay can be as comfortable as you like OR I can have you confined to your quarters until we reach Cardassia. The choice is yours. My officers and crew are as Nira said NOT your servants. DO I make myself clear?" Cyndi said firmly "Now Doctors Long and Shelya have deemed you and those who have come out of hibernation well. I'll have you and the others escorted to your quarters."

"You have no right to speak to me in this manner," Zoreen hissed

"I have every right. This is my ship and along with my first officer Commander Green we make the hard calls. I'm responsible for everyone aboard this ship and that is a crew of over one thousand officers, crew and guests," Cyndi remarked


"While the VIP Quarters are not Royal Quarters I'm sure Mi Lady you'll find them comfortable," Cyndi said as she looked to Nira and Ro then back to the Princess "I'll have Nira escort you to the VIP Quarters. This is a large ship so I do not want you walking the decks without an escort. Commander Green do you have anything else to add? Princess Zoreen you've been told that my officers and crew are not at your disposal and I trust you'll accept that."

" Commodore if you would avail me to do so. I am trained in royal etiquette's. I was raised in the Awa village on Earth. As I am new here and still acquainting to my new position I am free to assist the Princess. If that is acceptable your highness ?" Sabbath offered

"I'll take it under advisement," Cyndi replied "We don't know much about her customs, last thing we need or want to do is offend her."

Zoreen crossed her arms and looked at the assemble Amandora Officer "You know nothing and I am already offended."

"Princess," Tara spoke up "You have a lot to learn, manners is one."


Sabbath stood off as the females advanced toward the Princess. He had observed a similar act among the Awa once when one of the rival tribes had been attacked and a chiefs daughter was stolen. All of the females in the tribe attacked the chieftess, spitting and clawing at her.

" Fascinating " Sabbath half chuckled to himself.

Green, her turn to clear her throat, stepped up toe-to-toe with Zoreen. "Princess Zoreen, welcome aboard. Now, with that out of the way, I shall name our expectations. First, as Executive Officer aboard this ship you will show proper respect to those who are doing all in our power to make you comfortable. If you continue this childish tantrum I will order you remanded to the brig, where you will spend your entire trip. No guests, no visitors, just you. We will effort to make your stay comfortable, ma'am, but we will not break our backs to appease every ludicrous request that may pop into your mind." Green gave a brief nod towards Cyndi. "The Commodore is in command, but I am her voice when she cannot see to certain duties. Talk to us, Princess. Get to know us. There may be more to us than even you expect, and we are good listeners. Voice your concerns and we will take all of them into consideration." Ro stood casually, face to face with the Princess, waiting to see what she would say.

"I will permit your people not to kneel in my presence," Zoreen said "I trust that will be fine?"

"NO, Princess, it won't," Cyndi said "The VIP quarters that have been prepared are very comfortable and my first officer is right, you either treat everyone aboard with respect or you can be confined to the brig until we reach Cardassia. The replicators have been programed to your planet's meals, and those of Cardassia. You'll do well to read the customs of the Cardassian People. You as long as you behave will have permission to walk the decks and corridors of the ship, you'll have an escort with you and the escort knows the restricted areas of the ship. You'll do well to listen to your escort and not leave your quarters without the escort of Commander Green will confine you to the brig and that is final. DO you understand?"

Zoreen narrowed her eyes at Cyndi and those in the room. "I'll think about it. I don't like being told what to do."

"Neither do I," smiled Green. "But, my duties demand that I follow the directives given, or all will fall into chaos. Captain Barnes," Ro looked his way.

Jackson took a half pace forward. "Commander?"

Green gave a grin. "This is Captain Jack Barnes, our current marine CO. Soldiers. If you wish I can assign Barnes and the marines to escort you when needed, Princess."

Before the princess had a chance to say anything Cyndi nodded "It's perfect, make it so," Cyndi said in a tone that said it was the way it was going to be. "Captain do not let her pull anything on you."



Barnes gave an internal sigh to himself. That was all he needed, to be saddled with some uppity rich girl. Nira gave him a grin, which she was trying to hide, and wagged her long, luscious browse a couple of times. Jack responded by giving her the lip sync of "F-you", then turned to grin at the Zoreen. "A pleasure, Princess."

"Captain you can delegate anyone you want, you do not to do the personally. Use any marines and even feel free to rope in Captain Rivers and her fighter pilots as well," Cyndi said.

Barnes gave a nod in the Commodore's direction. "Aye, Sir. Consider them roped." He then looked at the Princess. "Princess Zoreen. Captain Barnes at your 'limited' service, ma'am."

"Good," Cyndi said "Any questions?"

"I guess I have nothing to say as you've decided for me," Zoreen said a sign of defeat for the first time.

Ro looked at the Princess since she was standing pretty much right next to her. "Apologies, Princess. We are not a luxury cruiser. Everything has a place, as it were. Seeing to your comfort will be done to the utmost of our ability..."

Barnes looked to the two, overhearing what was said since Green was not trying to keep it quiet. "Having said that, Number One, I need to let the Princess know. When my marines tell you that sections are off limits, or classified, please refrain from trying to enter them. If you try to push passed them you will be stopped by any means necessary. You're a guest, but like all guests, there are spaces that are off-limits to all but crew."

"Lieutenant Herculoid is also our diplomatic officer, she'll be available for questions. You may come onto the bridge but I stress only with an escort and you must leave if if told to. You can observe but at no time can you give my bridge officers any commands. The ship is mine and Commander Green's to run. You will listen to the marines and do as your instructed," Cyndi said firmly.

Zoreen nodded "I understand and as your lieutenant said I have a lot to learn. Can I go to my quarters now?"

Nira stepped in on the other side of Zoreen. "I can escort her to her quarters and section, Commodore. It will give the Captain time to get with his marines and work out a plan." She then looked at Barnes. "Jack, if you wish to assign your marines to aid with Security details, I am not opposed. It's high time we all got on the same page as the frontline fighters of Amandora."

"Agreed," said Barnes.

"I agree too, Nira escort our guest to the VIP quarters, Doctor Long when the rest of them are awake let security and Captain Barnes know and we'll get them settled too," Cyndi said "Let the doctors get back to work, everyone your dismissed."


Cyndi watched as Barnes and Ro left sick bay followed by the rest of the officers. Nodding to Long and Shelya Cyndi too left sick bay

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