Lt JG Taj'el - Emotions?
Taj'el
((Corridore Near T’Fearne’s Quarters, Deck 4, USS Ronin))
Another security officer, this was the third Taj’el had encountered aboard the Ronin. They found the frequency noteworthy, as they could recall only one such officer aboard the Thor, and even that individual had since transferred departments. Their awareness of this region of space remained limited, suggesting that the increased security presence may have been a prudent response to elevated risk.
They had noted a slight trace of annoyance when the topic had been raised earlier, and therefore chose to retain the observation without further comment. Regarding the Lieutenant herself, she appeared taller and projected a neutral yet inherently kind demeanor. Her explanation of becoming momentarily disoriented aboard the ship was interpreted as a socially appropriate and tactful response.
Following the exchange of introductions, Taj’el remained curious whether the Lieutenant would be willing to share details regarding her heritage. Having been raised primarily among Vulcans, Taj’el found many social and cultural elements still unfamiliar and occasionally difficult to interpret. As such, there was a quiet, personal expectation that Lieutenant T’Fearne might provide useful insight and guidance.
T'Fearne: Greetings Lieutenant. You…may. ::Holding Taj’el’s gaze steadily:: I am Vulcazoid. A hybrid of Vulcan and Betazoid lineage.
They raised an eyebrow at the name, briefly considering whether it carried particular significance. The thought was momentary, and they set it aside in favor of a more pertinent observation. The situation appeared unexpectedly ideal; this individual might prove to be one of the most insightful Vulcan, or Vulcanoid, individuals Taj’el had could encounter because of their own situation.
Taj’el: Forgive me if I have caused offense. I am actively refining my social skills.
T'Fearne: No offense has occurred, you are welcome to refine your social skills on me. ::Dry tone:: Though context is… helpful. Perhaps you could enlighten me on your intended destination before you became misplaced?
Taj’el: I was attempting to locate the main shuttle bay.
Observing her movements, Taj’el looked back up at the taller woman, their gaze briefly settling on her head before shifting down the corridor.
T'Fearne: If your destination is the shuttle bay, you will proceed this way. You are five decks above the primary shuttle bay access and approximately forty-three meters off the most efficient path. ::another small pause:: I am en route in that direction. You may accompany me if you wish.
Taj’el: Understood. ::pause:: I would like to accompany you. Thank you.
Taj’el was about to adjust their pace when they observed T’Fearne had already done so, shortening her strides to match theirs. Taj’el registered the consideration with appreciation, finding value in the unspoken accommodation and the additional time it afforded for continued interaction.
They experienced a brief uncertainty regarding what to say, concerned that further inquiries might be perceived as intrusive. As a result, they chose to remain silent for the moment, allowing the walk to continue without interruption.
T'Fearne: I am also headed to the surface. Some… rest and recovery, on medical recommendation. If we are heading in the same direction, then perhaps you would accompany me down? We can continue to converse.
Taj’el: Yes, I was heading to the surface. I believe that would be logical, given that we are both already proceeding in that direction.
It appeared that the two were studying one another. Taj’el considered the possible reasoning behind this mutual observation. Fortunately, Vulcans were more readily interpretable to them than most species; however, emotional facial expressions, unless overt, remained somewhat ambiguous, requiring inference in real time.
T'Fearne: ::conversational tone:: What has brought you to the Ronin, Lieutenant? And what is it you are seeking on the world below?
Taj’el: There was a request for additional medical officers, and I volunteered. However, the vessel I was assigned to is currently in the Gamma Quadrant, and by the time I arrived, your mission had already concluded. I believed this would also serve as a beneficial learning experience.
They tilted their head slightly, directing their gaze once more toward the taller Vulcazoid.
Taj’el: As for below, I am not certain. Similar to you, I was medically advised to socialize more. ::they adjusted their gloves:: And although I would prefer to remain in Sickbay, I am attempting to… socialize more, and this location appears to be adequate for that purpose.
T'Fearne: response
Taj’el considered their own explanation to be lacking in both interest and insight. Nevertheless, any exchange could provide useful information about an individual. The officer’s remark, that a medical rationale was required in order to relax, was particularly telling. Taj’el found this perspective relatable, as they too experienced difficulty disengaging during periods of inactivity.
They had initially anticipated that the Ronin would serve as either a productive distraction or an environment suitable for observation and study. However, given that the vessel was on shore leave, Taj’el now found themselves with an increased amount of unstructured time.
Taj’el: Are you seeking anything below Lieutenant?
T'Fearne: response
They nodded thoughtfully as they continued walking, their mind occupied with a range of observations and questions. Several assumptions formed, though they consciously attempted to avoid acting on them without confirmation. Curiosity gradually outweighed restraint, prompting them to pause.
Selecting their words with care, though not always with complete precision, they prepared to speak, aware that their phrasing required delicacy.
Taj’el: If I may, do you experience difficulty when interacting with more emotionally expressive crew members?
They looked up at the taller woman’s darker eyes with a thoughtful expression as faint recollections regarding the emotions of others surfaced. However, in a deliberate effort to remain composed for T’Fearne’s sake, Taj’el maintained an even greater degree of emotional restraint, keeping their demeanor measured and subdued.
T'Fearne: response
Taj’el: As a Vulcan–Betazoid hybrid, I am curious whether Betazoid abilities can at times become overwhelming.
It took Taj’el a moment to recognize that the question may have been overly personal. Their curiosity held little value if it caused discomfort or was unwelcome. Demonstrating an effort at appropriate bedside manner, they quickly added.
Taj’el: If this is too personal, please disregard the question and we may move on to another topic.
T'Fearne: response
[[TAGS/TBC]]
