Lt JG Taj'el - You are kind
Taj'el
((Deck 04, Guest Quarters, USS Ronin))
Taj’el considered whether it would be appropriate to inform him that their line of questioning had, in part, originated from Commander Herricks. It had been… enlightening to observe the differences in perspective between the two humans. From what they had seen thus far, this individual appeared notably more grounded than the Commander.
At the mention of Saa’s name, Taj’el gave a small, almost uncharacteristically warm nod. They knew her well, perhaps more well than they would have preferred, given the circumstances of their last mission.
That experience had been both profoundly illuminating and among the most distressing they had encountered. Yet, it had also fostered a greater curiosity about others and the ways in which they perceived and interacted with the world. It had, in effect, forced them beyond the boundaries of their usual detachment.
As they entered the turbolift, Taj’el lifted their gaze when he did, momentarily attempting to determine what had drawn his attention. Scanning the ceiling yielded no apparent answer, and so they returned their focus to the Lieutenant.
Kessler: Deck Ten. ::turning to Taj'el as the turbolift began moving:: One of my best friends is aboard the Ronin and when the Sec/Tac chief position opened I saw an opportunity to see my friend and expand on my skill sets and leadership ability. ::beat:: What about you? How do you challenge yourself Doc?
This was followed by a prolonged pause, as the question proved unexpectedly difficult. Taj’el felt as though they were still attempting to remain afloat; it seemed illogical to pursue further challenges when maintaining a basic standard had already required significant effort.
After a moment, perhaps slightly longer than appropriate, they began to speak, their tone measured, as though still formulating the answer even as the words left them.
Taj'el: I am attempting to better understand individuals outside of Vulcan society. That is my current challenge. Beyond that, I continue to challenge myself to meet the standard set in place for me. However… I do not believe I am particularly proficient at challenging myself.
Kessler: Well, I love a good challenge. Whether someone is challenging me or I am setting the challenge for myself.
They raised an eyebrow. Humans were… curious in that regard. They often chose the more difficult path simply to demonstrate that they were capable of it, continually pushing themselves toward their limits. Vulcans, by contrast, valued precision and refinement within logically attainable parameters. The notion of deliberately exceeding one’s boundaries for its own sake seemed… distinctly human.
((Deck 10, Medical Complex, USS Ronin))
A few additional crewmembers joined them as the turbolift continued in silence. When they reached their deck and the doors opened, Taj’el inclined their head slightly as they navigated around members of the Ronin crew. They followed after the Lieutenant, who appeared to be well known among them.
Taj’el made a deliberate effort to remain close, taking a few quicker steps to match his longer stride. A small, private sense of determination pushed them to ensure their lag did not become apparent. It seemed, however, that he noticed regardless, as his pace subtly slowed during their walk toward Sickbay.
Kessler: ::turning to Taj'el:: Before we step in, is there anything I can answer for you or anything I can help you with?
Taj'el: Thank you, Lieutenant Kessler. You have been… kind, insightful, and helpful. I was uncertain what to expect, but I am grateful for your assistance.
Kessler: Just know that my door is always open and you are always welcome to come to me if you need anything.
Taj'el: Thank you, sir. I will endeavor not to be a disruption.
There was something familiar, yet distinctly different. Even the sound of the doors carried a subtle variation. The layout of Sickbay greeted the two officers as they stepped inside. It appeared relatively quiet at the moment, with no one immediately present.
Any one: response
Kessler: ::turning half way to Taj'el:: This is Lieutenant Taj'el from the USS Thor.
Taj'el: It appears that most of the medical personnel are either occupied or otherwise not present ::They turned back toward Kessler:: I will ensure that I introduce myself to the Chief Medical Officer before initiating any duties. Once again, sir, thank you for bringing me here
Kessler / Any one: response
Tilting their head slightly, Taj’el observed his body language and expression. He appeared to be genuinely kind, an assessment they did not make lightly. Their familiarity with security officers was limited; the closest comparison they could draw was Naledi, whose role now spanned both Security and Intelligence, making the position somewhat… atypical.
Taj’el: If you should ever require a medical evaluation, you will know where to locate me. Hopefully, for the duration of my assignment here, that will be the extent of your need.
Kessler / Any one: response
Taj’el: Forgive me, there is one additional question: your lounge…?
They had forgotten the name of the lounge aboard the Ronin, and were seeking a reminder of its location. A subtle note of apprehension tinged their voice, it was not a place the Vulcan was naturally eager to visit, yet they recognized it as a necessary step.
Kessler / Any one: response
(Can be ending if you want)
[[TAGS/TBC]]
