Frayed Feisty Threads - Book IV

A Legendary Encounter

         This story combines ancient mythology with 20th century mythological characters from the original Star Trek episodes. The philosophical discussion and their encounter with the Enterprise is truly legendary.

Prologue

         “Captain! Sir!! Ve have spotted zom objects floating towards ze Enterprise! Zay are life forms,” reported Chekov to Captain Kirk.
         “Raise shields! Go to Yellow Alert! Sulu, get them on viewer!” barked the Captain.
         “They’re on viewer, sir, “ responded Sulu calmly.
         “Captain, I’m picking up…voices! Sir, they seem to be talking – to each other! Shall I try to send a message?” inquired Lieutenant Uhura, Communications Officer.
         “No, they may be hostile,” replied Kirk.
         “Captain, it is not logical for…”
         “Spock, this is no time for logic. These life forms are unknown to us!” Captain Kirk snapped at his Science Officer and good friend.
         “Precisely my point, Captain” replied Spock, somewhat bemused, raising an eyebrow. “Jim, if they were truly hostile, they would have made an aggressive move by now. They seem quite oblivious to our presence. I suggest we lower our shield. We do not wish to appear unfriendly.”
         “Affirmative, Mr. Spock. Cancel Yellow Alert! Lower shields. Lieutenant Uhura, send a message from the U.S.S. Enterprise on all channels and alert them to our presence. I don’t want them bumping into my ship. Offer any assistance they may require. Oh, and ask them how they do that – floating – without ships, I mean,” ordered the Captain, with a wave of his hand in Uhura’s direction.
         As Lieutenant Uhura turned to her transmitter, a puzzled look crossed her fac. Turning back quickly to Captain Kirk, she stated, “Captain! I think you should hear this. It’s, uh, quite interesting, considering our other passengers!”
         The crew of the starship Enterprise, in a peaceful mission of space exploration, listen intently as Lieutenant Uhura broadcasts the life forms’ conversation onto the bridge.

Chapter One

         “If YOU hadn’t been so arrogant and so concerned about what your people were thinking, you wouldn’t be lonely now. In fact, you wouldn’t even be here! You would be at home with your wife, Sita, and your sons. You would be reigning over your kingdom and you would be content,” the rotund little fellow sitting cross-legged and floating in space, stated pointedly to his companion.
         “Perhaps. However, my people have a code of values by which to live now. They have morals and standards that they are expected to live up to, as I, their ruler, Rama, set the example for them. They will also have faith in their leaders, because they realize we do not have two sets of standards, but one for all people, in all castes,” replied a rather sad-looking, aging, dark-skinned ma who appeared to be standing comfortably and safely in space.
         “A code of values and standards is important. Is your caste system necessary? Is it not also important that each individual have a way to achieve Nirvana? Why should our people spend an eternity working their dharma? What incentive is that? Our Brahmin day is 4, 320,000 earth years. Even you must admit that is difficult for people to understand. The path to Enlightenment can be achieved in a lifetime, if it is truly followed, “remarked the Buddha.
         “You do not understand the foundation of Hinduism, my Enlightened friend. Everyone has their role in life. It is determined at birth. Each birth is an opportunity to do better than in the last life. Each new life brings the possibility of being born into the Brahmin caste. When you reach that level, you can then achieve Nirvana. One must understand the importance of duty before one can reach salvation. You must know the true reality. Why, in Hinduism, you do not really exist, Buddha! You are part of the greater whole, the space around us and that space is part of us!”
         Rama continued to defend his religion to Buddha. He explains to Buddha that he is in Swarga, a sort of heaven. Most people spend time here between lives. Swarga is ruled by Devas, who are lesser gods and this is their home. Normally, Rama explains he would also spend time with Yama, the Lord of purgatory or Hades. Rama has led an exceptional life; he has achieved neti-neti.
         He knows the secret to samsara. Rama knows the only reality is in himself. All things that make him an individual are illusions. Rama is really Vishnu in his earthly form. He is also Shiva, the Destroyer and Brahma, the Creator. Rama will become Brahma when he leaves Swarga and reaches Nirvana. For now, he is content to float in space, debating the Buddha. He has heard much about Buddha and how his teachings and ideas challenge Hinduism and the Brahmin ways of life.
         Buddha is speaking, “The path to Nirvana is attainable in a lifetime. I have set forth Four Nobel Truths to explain life. The First is that people do suffer; life is dukkha. Suffering is a part of life. This suffering comes from five Skandas, or areas of life that are painful. To heal this pain, you must know its cause. That is the Second Noble Truth. Tanha or desire for fulfillment keeps us suffering. On this, I agree with you my Hindu friend. We must be free; in order to be free, we must be selfless, have no desires at all. Life is one. We must connect our hopes, fears, desires, faith and love to the greater whole. When we are as concerned for others as we are for ourselves, then we are free. This is the Third Nobel Truth, to achieve selflessness. Overcoming tanha is accomplished through the Eightfold Path; this is the Fourth Noble Truth.”
         “Buddha, my Complicated Awake One! There are only four goals in life: dharma or duty, artha or material treasures, karma, a time of pleasure and finally, Nirvana. When you have passed through all these stages, have lived many lives and are a Brahmin, then you are ready to reach Nirvana, not before. You really expect that people will understand your Four Noble Truths in one lifetime without experiencing them? I believe you have an intellectual and philosophical religion, not a practical one. It’s a but complicated, with your Truths and Eightfold Path. There is a lot to remember, if you ask me. Do you not think it simpler only having three ways to Salvation? Hinduism has something for everyone and everyone can choose their own way. Do you recall dharma the way of duty, yoga, the way of knowledge or bhakti, the way of passion? It is a very personal choice, is it not?” countered Rama.
         And so, the debate continued. Aboard the Enterprise, Captain Kirk had his own debate as his crew became increasingly concerned for the safety of Rama and Buddha. They were drifting closer to the asteroid belt.
         “Captain! Researching earth’s history, I have located a description of the round human in the late 20th century. History tells us he is quite ancient, living long before records existed, in India during a time period unfamiliar to me, 563 B.C. His name is Buddha. It means Enlightened One. He apparently started a religious movement called Buddhism. Records indicate…”
         “Yes, yes. Thank you. Later, Mr. Spock. We have to decide what to do with him. What about the other one?” bristled Captain Kirk, as he paced about the bridge of his ship.
         “Jim, it would appear form ship’s records , that his companion is also Indian, living at a later time between 1000 and 1200 B.C. He is called Rama. Captain, I am puzzled,” Mr. Spock responded with a slight tilt of his head and raised brow.
         “What is it, Mr. Spock?” queried Kirk, with restrained impatience.
         “The one called Rama was born after Buddha, yet appears to be significantly older. He is defending his beliefs to a younger man born before him. It is not logical,” stated Mr. Spock, with Vulcan clarity.
         “Correct, Spock! A quick analysis of the ship’s computer data will explain. Try looking up ‘calendars’, Mr. Spock,” Captain Kirk informed his Science Officer with a grin.
         “Captain, - calendars?” questioned Spock.
         “Yes, Mr. Spock. You will find that during the years with B.C. following a number, calendar time (year) was counted backwards until the birth of another famous human, Jesus. He was also a man of religion and philosophy. He would keep these two from chasing each other in circles with their arguments. Who knows! We may yet encounter him as well. For now though, we have two more passengers to bring aboard. Scotty, can you get a transporter lock on our floating philosophers?”
         “Aye, Captain. I’m beaming them over now.”
         “Excellent, Mr. Scott. Show them to their quarters. Uh, Scotty? Perhaps they would be most comfortable with out other guests,” directed Captain Kirk. “Mr. Spock, have Dr. McCoy check them over just to be sure our ancient friends aren’t carrying any ancient viruses with them.”
         “It is not logical to expose the ship’s only doctor to potential diseases, Captain,” Mr. Spock remarked wryly.
         “I hear that, you green – blooded Vulcan! I’ll have you know I’ve treated more ancient viruses on your planet than I ever heard of on my own!!” Dr. McCoy replied testily to Spock as he strode onto the bridge. “Just who were you planning to have stand in for me? You??? Don’t forget, you’re half-human. You won’t have any more immunity than the rest of us! Tell me where the logic is in that!!” smarted Bones to Spock.
         “Gentlemen, gentlemen! Please! Can we simply attend to our guests? We still have a mission to complete. Sulu, set a course to steer us away from this asteroid belt. Mr. Chekov, you’re in charge! Lieutenant Uhura, Spock, Bones – you’ll accompany me to explain to our distinguished guests what century they are in presently. And someone needs to tell them this is the Enterprise, not Nirvana!” Captain Kirk addressed his crew and dispatched his team to greet Rama and Buddha.

Chapter Two

         Rama and Buddha suddenly found themselves each standing and sitting in a circular enclosure with bright lights surrounding them. They were bewildered and frightened. Perhaps the man with the jovial smile was Brahma? They could not understand him though; he had a strange accent. It could not be Brahma, then. Nor could they understand the others with him. They were led to a large furnished room unlike any they had ever seen before. This appeared to be a sort of living area also designed for sleeping. It was suddenly apparent to Rama and Buddha they were not the only unexpected guests on this ship!

         “I am Mwindo, the little one just born he walked,” laughing and turning handsprings across the bed, Mwindo repeated himself several times.
         “Can you say nothing else?” snapped Isis, with obvious irritation. She was a beautiful woman, regal and quite Egyptian. “You are always bragging about yourself. Your father, you must admit had reason to be annoyed with you, if you walked around saying that all the time. It was unfortunate that he tried so many times to kill you – by spear, by burying you alive and by drowning. You were kind to forgive him after bringing him back from the Underworld, but really, Mwindo, a little humility would make you a greater leader in the eyes of your people!” And a more tolerable roommate, Isis thought silently to herself.
         Mwindo just laughed and said, “I am Mwindo, the little one just born he walked!”
         Rama and Buddha looked silently from one to the other at the scene they had just witnessed. Who are these people? We understand their words! Who was the King sitting somewhat forlornly by himself, gazing thoughtfully at the beautiful flowering plant in the room, occasionally reaching out to touch it? Silence had befallen the group when they realized there were two strangers in their midst.
         Rama broke the silence and introduced himself and Buddha; Isis and Mwindo did the same. Gilgamesh continued, however, to show more interest in the plant than his new companions. Rama commented on this and the group immediately grew silent.
         Gilgamesh was startled but quickly regained his composure. He responded to Rama buy telling him of his life’s quest for fame and immortality.
         “I had the gift of everlasting youth in my hands and I tossed it carelessly aside. I failed the test of immortality and lost my good friend Enkidu. His death was the result of my foolish behavior toward the goddess Ishtar and my refusal to marry her. My pride has caused me great sorrow, I wanted immortality, at least. And I lost it. I could not even hold onto that. This plant reminds me of my life’s battle with my pride and the people who have suffered because of my arrogance.”
         “Hmph! Touching story, King Gilgamesh! At least you did not lose a mate before you had time to enjoy the marriage!” retorted Isis, sweeping regally across the room. “My husband was not as fortunate as you, Mwindo. He was buried alive also and he died. As if that were not enough, I had to search all through Egypt for his body parts. Our brother, Set, did a number on Osiris, but I managed to bring him to life again. I used my magic to revive him long enough to consummate our marriage and I bore our son, Horus. He reigns with the gods now and is revered throughout Egypt.”
         At the mention of Horus’ name, Isis, for a fleeting moment seemed to be wearing a cow’s head in place of her own. Mwindo laughed and hopped about the room. Even the Buddha had difficulty suppressing a smile; she did look rather, well, different. Only Gilgamesh seemed unaware of the transformation.

Chapter Three

         Rama observed his fellow travelers. His adventure seemed tame by comparison. He felt tired and lonely. Rama spoke softly, “In my land, one does not question what comes, but rather accepts. It is my duty to accept my role in life without question. We call it ‘following one’s dharma’. I spent fourteen years in the forest with my wife Sita and my brother. My wife was kidnapped by the Rakshasa. I fought and killed many Rakshasas and eventually rescued my wife. Even though I knew my Sita had been loyal to me, I could not allow her to return until her purity was tested. She had been with another man. It was my dharma; it was also her dharma.”
         Buddha asked softly, “Is this why you banished Sita?”
         “No,” replied Rama. “She passed the test. Sita threw herself into a blazing fire. The fire god Agni walked her out of the fire; she was unharmed because she was pure in word and deed.
         “Your wife threw herself into a blazing fire for you? Why did she not use her magic and save herself? Was she not a goddess?” Isis did not like the direction this adventure was taking. What kind of a culture was this, to demand women prove their fidelity?
         “Ah, Isis! My Sita had no magic. She only had her dharma to follow. Her actions were for greater causes, that of moral value and principle. Sita earned glory among her people. Alas, my pride was to keep me from even knowing my own children. When I heard that my subjects were questioning my decision to take Sita back, I sent her away. When she returned years later, with my sons, I begged her forgiveness and asked her again to prove her purity. To my great sorrow, Sita chose to leave her earthly life. I have had many adventures, brought great pride to my people. My own dharma was fraught with suffering. Yet, I cannot question. It was mine. My people have profited, though I have suffered.” Rama slowly sank into a chair, looking more aged and week, Clearly, his heart was hurting; he was indeed lonely and suffering.
         Seeing his friend’s sorrow moved the Buddha to great compassion. “Rama,” Buddha gently began, “it is only when we give up our desires that we are truly free. I know, because I tried to deny reality. I was blind to suffering, illness, age and death. I wandered in the forest for six years. It did not bring me peace. I learned all I could about Hinduism, more than the Masters! Still no peace. I endured physical hardships and suffering, depriving myself of food. Still no peace. Clearly, extremes were not working. Finally, I sat down – and when I was still, I awoke! I found peace and enlightenment. The rest of my life was spent teaching others what I had learned sitting down. Moderation and balance are the keys to all aspects of life. I do not starve myself, nor do I overeat. Remember Rama, all compounded things decay. Work out your own salvation with diligence. You must surround yourself with the right people and then follow the Eightfold Path. Keep a right view toward the world; have right intentions and right speech. Choose right conduct and the right livelihood; make a right effort at all you attempt in life. Be of right mindfulness and keep the right concentration. This is the path to salvation; it can be earned by anyone.
         “I am Mwindo, the little one just born he walked,” came a voice from across the room. “Your stories are sad, too serious and require too much thought. Are your people allowed to have fun? Your lives seem quite intense and laborious to me. Now, I had an adventure! You two either sat down or worried about what your people were thinking about you! No magic power, either. No magic, no fun! My magic helped me all my life and I used it to help others before I was even born! I did have a close call with that dragon episode. But I am Mwindo, the little one just born he walked! Although Master Lightning and his friends tortured me for a year for killing the dragon (he was their friend) they let me go after that, with a warning. It is important to be kind to all living things, that I did learn. And to accept all people, whether healthy or disabled. Isis, even though my father and I had our disagreements, I divided my kingdom with him. It is important to be considerate of your elders. After all, I am Mwindo, the little one just born, he walked!!”

Chapter Four

         Isis stared at her companions. What a diverse group of people they were and what different adventures they had experienced. Secretly, she agreed with Mwindo. Adventures were not fun without magic. In fact, the thought of being without magic scared her. As for the Buddha and Rana, well, Isis felt pity for Rama. If she could bring back his wife, he would be much happier, she was sure of it. But would he accept her? Probably not. The Buddha could go sitt under his tree as far as she was concerned. He had too much compassion to suit her tastes. Isis well knew the trouble being compassionate could bring! What about Gilgamesh? He was a brooding, silent figure, which made him even more interesting.
         Startling Isis from her thoughts, Science Officer Spock appeared in the doorway. In his hands was a strange square device. He explained it was a translator that would help them all to speak with each other. To demonstrate, he turned it on and spoke: “The Cpatain wishes you to join him. A meal has been prepared in your honor. We are pleased to have such distinguished and knowledgeable guests aboard the Enterprise.”
         Isis smiled sweetly at Spock and quickly invited him to join their discussion. Rama was curious as to what type of vehicle the Enterprise was and how many horses were needed to pull it along. Gilgamesh inquired about any potential monster they might encounter and offered his services. Gilgamesh also asked if he, Gilgamesh, was immortal. Perhaps he did save some of Utnapishtim's plant after all. Mwindo, silent for once, recognized that his magic was not as powerful as the Enterprise. The Buddha offered no comment, only a serene smile.
         After joining the Captain and crew, and partaking of a delicious meal, replete with all their native foods, Isis realized that she enjoyed their company. In fact, in some unexplainable way, she as if they were old friends. Unbeknownst to Isis, Rama, Gilgamesh and the Buddha were thinking and feeling the same.
         Rama found himself drawn to Dr. McCoy, a man of medicine. He was impressed with his friendly, gentle manner and his knowledge. Gilgamesh perceived quickly that Captain Kirk was an admirable leader and he determined that he would be a formidable adversary. Mwindo and Scotty seemed to be finding some common ground; their jovial natures and zest for life was apparent to both. Isis was sure Lieutenant Uhura must be the Great Goddess of the Enterprise; she was as regal and as beautiful as any Egyptian goddess Isis knew. Buddha quietly observed Mr. Spock and his logical approach to life, noting his apparent detachment from any emotion.
         As the evening and the conversation progressed, all involved found each other’s company to be lively and entertaining. Finally, Buddha could contain himself no longer. Addressing Mr. Spock, he asked how it was that their crew came to be so knowledgeable about each of them.
         Mr. Spock looked at the Buddha quizzically.
         “It is only logical,” he replied. “Legends recognize legends, and we are all legends in our own time!”


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