Guess Who's Going For Dinner

Posted on Tue Feb 25th, 2025 @ 10:27am by Sayssus Zhevou & Lieutenant Commander Keishara Davaris

3,151 words; about a 16 minute read

Mission: Year One: Strange Bedfellows
Location: Orion Vessel
Timeline: MD 003 - 1730 hrs

Sayssus was standing in the transporter room with only the transporter operator flanking her, she was dressed in her duty uniform. A black shirt tucked over a gold neck neck collar. She had a set of gold segmented pauldrons on her shoulders that were connected by a chain in the front and the back. Black uniform pants, black boots and a black shirt with a gold symbol over her chest denoting her rank. Her uniform was far more elaborate, the designs on her collar and pauldrons were custom work and the chain had jewels embedded in it. Around her waist was a black leather belt. Her hair was down, styled with big curls and framed her face well.

When the transporter finally released the Captain and his security chief, she smiled at the both of them. "Welcome aboard Captain. Thank you for coming."

Stryvek knew that this was one of those events that one had to do, it was duty. He materialized on the transporter pad with Keishara to his right. After Sayssus greeted him Stryvek bowed slightly. "Thank you Captain. This is Lieutenant Commander Davaris my Chief Security Officer. This is a momentus occasion." Stryvek saw the logic in this meeting. To his knowledge there had never been a Starfleet officer aboard an Orion ship as a guest. He also thought it prudent to get a good look at a current Orion vessel from the inside.

"I truly hope it is. I know Starfleet and the Orions have been on opposite sides for a very long time, but we are an agreeable people. Far more diplomatic than the stereotypes suggest. I know that mere words won't be enough to convince you," Sayssus answered, before she motioned for them to come down off the transporter pad. "We can head right for the Captain's mess, or if you'd prefer a tour of the ship before hand."

"I believe a tour would be in order." Stryvek said as he stepped off the pad. "Captain, I do not believe that most people would agree that Orions are agreeable, and even diplomatic. Like most races there are those who would go against that and those that would not. Where most look twice when it comes to your people is your methods. The deeds that you do, and the method in which you conduct them goes against most people's sensibilities. Slavery for example one such thing." Stryvek's voice was level with little to no inflection. At the moment he found the conversation to be fascinating. He wondered if the Orions had actually changed in any manner.

'Definitely most people.' Keishara shivered, a chill coursing down her spine. Every fiber of her being, each strand of hair, seemed to stand on end, signaling an urgent need to flee. She thought she could detect the scent of slavery lingering in the air, yet she was certain that aboard this ship, such a thing would be absent, given their affiliation with Starfleet. The simple utterance of the term by Stryvek acted as a trigger, causing a faint sheen of sweat to emerge on her skin, her pulse quickening beyond its usual rhythm.

Sayssus stood, watching the two Starfleet officers for a moment. She would never tell them that it pleased her that the captain was being so direct, she liked knowing exactly where someone stood. It was clear his escort was just as uncomfortable, but was letting him take the lead.

"And how much of that is based in fact or simply our reputation? I'm going to let you in on one of our dirty little secrets, we love our reputation. Even if we don't use such brutal methods, the fear that we might makes it worth not correcting or addressing. Not all Orions are members of the Syndicate and as it stands, we are a minority in that organization. I, for example, own no one. One of the reasons I was chosen to represent the Orions was because I am more moderate. The Orion Free Traders are a much different organization. We are far more diverse than you give us credit for."

"I have many employees and those that serve me but I pay them in gold pressed latinum. I know that your society has moved past a monetary system and that ours hasn't. We do, however, see the Federation's trade request as a sign of respect and we are as invested in making this work as you are."

"I would posit that enjoying a false reputation is just as wrong as if the reputation were true. Logic dictates that there is more to gain from being totally transparent then not." Stryvek replied. His voice had a tone that meant that was his final word on the matter. "Captain if I may I am not here to pass judgement or even attempt to convince you to stray from your methods. Just as I have no doubt you will not attempt to convince me of the same. So, I suggest we forego any more conversation about what your people do or do not do and instead focus on how we can see this mission through to an end that is acceptable to both of our governments."

"Oh, perhaps I am not being clear. I'm not indicating I am suddenly wishing to change who I am, more that this is important to me and my people and I wish to perform at a higher standard than the Federation has set," Sayssus replied simply, she smirked slightly before motioning for them to come with her. "This is an Orchid class ship, a class that's really become a work horse for our fleet but is starting to get older. They're similar in size and ability to your Nebula class ship. It can serve multiple roles, we primarily run cargo and passengers between smaller colonies, so we have goods and services for said colonies. All of our facilities are open to your crew, we have two shops, a restaurant and a brothel."

Stryvek's face was neutral with his chin parallel to the ground as he fell in step with Sayssus. However, when she mentioned the brothel his left eyebrow raised so high that it was in danger of disappearing into his hairline. He knew that he could not order his crew not to partake. But, he would try to make sure that Doctor T'Mara would strongly suggest that they did not partake. "I will make sure to relay your offer to the crew."

"Of course," Sayssus had to work to hide the smirk, while time had tempered her she still enjoyed the idea of making the Captain uncomfortable even if for a moment. There was no way to know for sure but that was certainly one of her goals. She didn't have a reason for it beyond her own amusement.

The hairs on the back of Keishara's neck, the hairs on her arms, all stood up. This ship felt wrong and more so the emotion she felt from some of the males on board. The females were more guarded, disciplined. It was easy to notice the difference in genders and their emotional states. There was a loud clank that caused Keishara to move her hand to where her phaser would have sat, but sadly they had left their weapons on board as this was a 'friendly' visit. Still, she removed her hand from her waist and continued listening to the sickening exchange between the captain and Sayssus.

Stryvek knew that culturally there would be little that would interest him. But he was interested in the technology that Orions employed on their vessels. It had been said that they were capable of adapting anyone's technology to connect to their ship. "Captain if I may inquire. How old is this vessel? In some cases is seems quite old and yet in others practically new. It is a curiosity that I have noticed."

"Yes, truly fascinating." Keishara said deadpan. It one hand it was how boring she found this conversation but in the other it was a jab at Stryvek for bringing her along to this hellhole.

"Is it really all that fascinating?" Sayssus asked, before glancing back at Keishara before focusing on Stryvek. She motioned for them to turn right at a four way corridor intersection. "We're nearly at the Captain's mess. As far as the ship, much like your Starfleet, we believe in refitting and reusing ships as long as we can. Your Miranda class comes to mind. This ship was first put into service in 2296, so she has certainly seen a thing or two. Her last major refit was five years ago, just before I took command. The super structure was still in good shape. While new ships like yours certainly have their appeal, old ships like this have a certain character."

As she finished speaking, they arrived at her private mess. She opened the door for the two of them and motioned them inside. The captain's mess was lavishly decorated. Instead of the standard bulkheads, the walls were covered in a rich, dark stained wood. There were a couple of mirrors as well as two rather provocative paintings. Along the starboard side, under two large windows, was a sitting area with a hand carved wooden table, a large over stuffed chair and a couch. Near the center of the room was a crystal chandelier that bathed the room in a soft, yellow light. Under it was a square, had carved wooden table with four high back chairs. There were place settings for three and a vase of fresh flowers in the center of the table.

"Please, come in," She spoke almost seductively as she stepped into the room.

Stryvek stepped into the room and looked around. The décor was logical given that he was in the company of Orions. Among many things Orions enjoyed lavish décor. "Thank you Captain." Stryvek spoke as he looked about the room. Stryvek thought that thus far it seemed that Orions followed the old adage of fashion before function.

"I see the cheap elegant brothel look is standard even on their ships." Keishara commented as she looked around. In a different setting this may have been nice and Kei did like natural things but the chandelier, the paintings, and even the smell... Gods the smell of the ship just felt wrong. Part of her felt like she stuck to the floor, but that was maybe her imagination.

Stryvek turned to Keishara with a raised eyebrow. "Commander." Was all he said but body language told her to guard her tongue. As much as Stryvek did not want to be here. He knew that they needed this gathering to be a success.

Sighing internally Keishara withheld anymore comments she definitely had about the decor. Simply looking at Stryvek as an acknowledgement but also a raised eyebrow at him in return as if to say 'you brought me here when you know my past'. He couldn't expect her to be totally silent in the face of known pirates, slavers and people smugglers. Although she would admit that not all were like that, Dash was different.

Sayssus looked between the two of them for a moment, did she want to address it directly and try to smooth over rough edges or just let things go? It wasn't an easy decision and she wasn't exactly trained in diplomacy. Her tactics where far more direct and that did not work well with Starfleet. Finally she turned and entered the room, motioning for them to join her at the table.

"I had it modeled after several luxury human designs I found appealing, you must have spent time in some nicer brothels," She commented idly.

A Vulcan was standing by as they entered and had already set the table, poured them each a glass of water. He began pulling out the chairs from the table, first for the guest and then finally for Sayssus.

"The first course should be out momentarily," The Vulcan spoke in an even tone.

"Thank you T'Ka," Sayssus nodded to him before turning to the other two. "I tried to plan something you would find palatable Captain."

Sitting down made Keishara feel more vulnerable. It was easier to get the drop on someone when seated, movement was more confined. She said nothing at the moment but wondered what Sayssus would bring to the table, literally. She was undecided if she would try some, her distrust in eating anything provided by pirates was high.

Stryvek took the seat offered and looked around. There was nothing of note in this room. That is to say nothing that he would have found fascinating. He wondered if Sayssus would try to illicit a response from him by serving meat when Vulcans are vegetarians. However, if the food met with his dietary needs Stryvek decided that he would try it. The only thing that stuck him was the idea that a Vulcan would submit to being enslaved by Orions. Stryvek decided that he may ask this T'ka that very question should he return to the room.

Sayssus moved to her seat and settled at the table, she took a drink from the wine glass and took a moment to savor the taste. "My chef is quite well versed in Vulcan cuisine," She continued. "I know that one shared meal will not suddenly change decades of history between our people, but I am genuine in my belief that we can work together."

"Indeed I would agree. It will take a lot of work and more than this meal. However, I believe in due time the Federation and Orions can work together on multiple projects." Stryvek played his role of diplomat to the hilt.

Sayssus was satisfied with the answer and had expected a diplomatic response from the Captain. She knew Starfleet would likely never fully trust the Orions and they would be fools to do so, but she was happy for the relationship. It benefited her in more ways than they knew and she would do her best to make them comfortable.

"I'm glad to hear it Captain," She responded with a nod.

Before she could say any more, T'Ka came out from the back and began setting plates full of food in front of each of them. He gave preference to their guests, serving Sayssus last.

"The next course will be out shortly, our chef has prepared a lovely Vulcan menu, starting with tevmel. Our chef is quiet talented," T'Ka explained with a slight bow.

Keishara sighed internally, slight enough so that no-one would notice. A talented slave who is a chef is still a slave. Just one bad meal might be his last should the mood turn sour on board. "Did you invite the captain over just to show off the ship and 'talented' chef, or did you have something else in mind?" Keishara asked she she moved some food around on her plate.

Stryvek looked over the food and then toward T'Ka. "Tell me T'Ka why would one on the path of Surak decide to work for the Captain here?" What he meant was why would a Vulcan be a slave. However, that was not something he could very well say.

Sayssus looked at Keishara, she watched her for a moment before taking a breath, "I know what I am, I know what you think of me and I don't care. Orion's enjoy opulence, and while we can be hostile, brash and a whole host of things you find distasteful, we also want to make things with the Federation and Starfleet work to both of our advantages. I am attempting to be diplomatic, even if I'm not as skilled as you or the Captain. I doubt I can impress the Captain, but I can be welcoming at least."

T'Ka was respectful and waited for Saysuss to finish speaking before looking to Stryvek, "It was the most logical choice. Before I worked for her I was owned. Now I am employed and well compensated, free to come and go as I please because of her. I will live many years after her, it was logical to me to remain and work for her for a time."

"You'll find the sentiment common among those that work for me," Saysuss said softly, addressing them both. "He is free to leave my service when he choses. He could go with you now if he asked. I won't lie to you and say I don't have slaves, but that is the society I live in. I've found those that are free and well paid work far better for me than any forced into service. Do not let stereotype cloud what you see now."

Stryvek cocked an eyebrow, it seemed now he was interested. "T'ka if I may ask. How did you come to be owned? I ask more out of want to learn more of how Orion society operates. If we are to be allies then it is logical to learn about each other's societies. If you cannot answer the question simply say so."

"I was on a Vulcan transport heading for the Polaris V colony, we were in a civilian shipping lane and crossed out of Federation territory and some rather aggressive Orions attacked. As followers of Surak, we are peaceful and sought after as house workers, clerical and a host of other duties," T'Ka arched one of his brows. "I came into Lady Sayssus' house when she started negotiating with the house I had been in service to. I was part of the trade deal, after three months of getting to know her, I was made a paid member of her house and given my freedom by Orion law. It is a detestable practice, but even she agrees with that."

"I know the Federation has long left such ideas behind, but I find those that work for me are much more loyal and work harder if they are given respect and a decent wage," Saysuss clarified. "It may sound selfish, but I genuinely care for those that work for me."

Stryvek tucked into the food offered and took a few bites. He nodded his agreement with Saysuss. But, he wondered if the Orion woman spoke genuinely or if she attempted to simply tell him what she thought he wanted to hear.

Things weren't going quite as smoothly as Saysuss had been hoping, but they weren't the complete disaster she had feared they might be. All in all, she was sure that the two crews and ships could work together for this delivery and likely give a decent enough report back to Starfleet and the Federation that this type of work would continue. It would be better for her, her people and her organization. This was the start of something she couldn't entirely predict the future of, but she had a positive outlook.

 

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