PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION - O'CONNELL
 

Stardate 37311.13 (1358H)
Counsellor's Office

[O'CONNELL] :: Padraigh walked quickly through the corridors, trying to make some
sense out of the crazy instructions the computer gave him ::

~~ What the hell's with this?!?  'Right at Canopus, third star on the left past Sigma Draconis? Who dreamed this up?  With the way my luck has been running, I'm going to walk right into a supernova... ~~

:: He eventually arrived at the door to the Counsellor's Office.  He unconsciously wiped his palms on his pantlegs, gave a little tug on the hem of his tunic, closed his eyes and took a deep breath.  He opened his eyes and rang the door chime ::

[O'CONNELL] "Lt O'Connell reporting as ordered, Counsellor."

~~ Padraigh, I notice a remarkable rise in your pulse rate and blood pressure.  Your forehead is also beginning to perspire.  Perhaps you should practice the Vulcan breathing ritual we were working on... ~~

~~ Not now, Tu'rek!  Let me try to get through this on my own.  And keep your comments to yourself... she's interviewing ME, not my Vulcan hitch-hiker! ~~

:: Lieutenant Talt looks up, a momentary look of distraction clouding her gray eye.  With a quick shake of her head, she focuses on the young man before her.  A smile warms her face. ::

[Talt] "Lieutenant, just the man I was hoping to see.  I was wondering if I might ask you a favor.  But first . . . "

:: Lt. Talt turns away before O'Connell can respond and starts rooting around on her desk.  A quick survey of her office paints quite a picture.  There are a number of various sized packing crates stacked up in the corner of the office.  Some of them are half-open and spilling out a wide variety of items.  DataPADDs, antiques, holo-cubes and a large number of brightly colored fabric somethings drape over the crates. ::

[O'CONNELL]  :: As he entered the room, Paddy took in his surroundings, trying for the moment to avert his eyes from Talt. ::

~~ My God... this place looks almost like the market back home!  Look at this stuff... it's amazing!  ~~

:: Lt. Talt's desk is likewise cluttered and jumbled with things teetering dangerously near the desk edge.  Among the dataPADDs and scarves on her desk, Lt. O'Connell can spot a Klingon D'K'Tahg, a small metal flute, a stuffed doll, a miniature of an Excalibur class starship, two silver enamel plates, a copper and silver necklace with a large tear-shaped pendant, a small fern in a clay pot, three small books, and a little statue of a wooden horse. ::

[Talt] "Where are they? Where are they?"

:: Lt. Talt mutters to herself as she searches through the clutter.  Her actions disturb the jumble and several items drop off her desk onto the gray carpeted floor.  Mirifice glances down briefly, shrugs and continues with her search.  After a few seconds, she finds what she's looking for and turns back to Lt. O'Connell.  Proudly displayed in her hands is a medium blue plate holding six large cookies. ::

[O’CONNELL]  :: He happened to catch Dr. Talt digging through the mountain of objects on her desk, and an unwanted memory flashed across his mind...::  ~~ ...and she...  She looks so much like Shannon...  she even moves like her.  This is going to be the hardest part of this cruise, I think.  Every time I see her, she'll remind me of Shannon... ~~

:: He was brought back by the clatter of an avalanche of items falling to the floor.  Padds, daggers, baubles and trinkets fell around the desk, but Talt seemed not to take much notice of any of it.  However, Paddy was drawn to a small flute that landed lightly away from the rest of the debris.  Gently, and as far as he knew without Talt seeing him do so, he picked it up and put it carefully back on the desk.::

[Talt] "Would you like a cookie, Lt.?  I replicated them from my own recipe."

[O’Connell] :: Straightening up, he was at first startled when he saw Talt standing by him with a plate of cookies.  Paddy couldn't help but laugh as she offered the plate to him. ::

:: Lt. Talt smiles up at O'Connell cheerfully. ::

[O’CONNELL] ~~  She even smiles like her... ~~

"Thank you, Lieutenant, er... oh Hell!  May I ask what term you prefer to be addressed by, Doctor Talt?"

:: Talt laughs gently and smile at O'Connell.  Her eyes flash a little as she grins.::

[Talt]  "It is tricky, isn't it?  Do you know that I had to ask the Captain what SHE recommended?"  :: she laughs a little ruefully under her breath. :: "I've settled on Lieutenant.  Thank you for asking, Lt. O'Connell."

[O'CONNELL] "Well, that's a relief, Lieutenant.  One problem down... probably a whole list to get to."

:: Paddy seemed to relax quite a bit, beginning to realize that this person was not the same as the one that he left on Luna many years before.  This person would not, to his knowledge yet, betray him. ::

"Ah, may we begin, Lieutenant?  I think I'm as 'at ease' as I'm going to get, at least for now."

~~  Another evaluation... another test...  Jeez, it seems that Starfleet is always testing or diagnosing or evaluating something!  ~~

:: Talt smiles and turns her head slightly downward. ::

[Talt] "Certainly, but I can't figure out if you want a cookie or not?" :: She laughs lightly and gestures with the plate back and forth a little between O'Connell and the desk. ::

:: A big boyish grin lit up Paddy's face,::  "Sorry, Lieutenant... I thought that might have been a trick question or something."  :: He took one of the cookies and bit into it ::

* The cookies are toll house with Risan white chocolate and Macadamian nuts. *

:: Talt laughs again and places the plate on her desk, this time displacing nothing.  Then, she leans back and rests one hip against the edge of the desk and folds her arms casually across her chest. ::

[Talt] :: looks at O'Connell with almost embarrassment. :: "Well, you see.  What I wanted to ask you, Lieutenant, was . . . do you think you could teach me how to use the transporter?  Well, I mean."

:: Talt looks down at the floor. And gives a little shrug. ::

[Talt] "I mean, I guess I could do easy things.  But I don't expect that things on our missions are always going to be easy.  And I . . ."

:: Talt looks up at O'Connell with sincere eyes. ::

[Talt] "You see, Lieutenant, this is my first shipboard assignment.  I haven't used a transporter since the Academy.  And I would really hate to endanger any of my crewmates by being rusty."

[O'CONNELL] "What you say makes sense, Lieutenant.  The notion of crosstraining, particularly given the current situation of a limited crew on an indeterminate mission would necessitate a more than nominal amount of overlap in our duties.  In fact..."

~~ Shut up, Tu'rek!  I though we'd agreed that I'd handle this! ~~

~~ Padraigh, may I point out to you that the Counselor is, in fact, an empath.  She may have already determined that there are in fact two consciousnesses inhabiting your mind.  Besides, I think I made a very valid point. ~~

"I'm sorry, Lieutenant.  Sometimes I get carried away when I start 'talking shop' "

:: When "O'Connell" starts speaking a little line appears on Talt's forehead and she begins to focus on what he's saying.  When O'Connell and Tu'rek start discussing, Talt blinks several times.  When O'Connell finishes, she continues to look at the Lt. for a moment, then her face lights up. ::

[Talt] * covering laughter at her self with one hand * "Oh, pardon me, Lt.  This is just what I get for skimming files.  I hope that you don't think I'm being terribly forward but . . . would you mind introducing me to your companion?"

[O'CONNELL] :: If he thought he could get away with it, Paddy would have curled up in a corner and died right on the spot. ::

~~ Now look what you've gone and done!  How am I going to explain this one?  If I'd have known you'd be this much trouble...  ~~

~~ Padraigh, you are being over-emotional, given the circumstances.  Perhaps introductions ARE in order.  She does, after all, recognize my presence.  ~~

"Ah, Lieutenant... " ::  he said, a blush starting to creep up from his collar (what seemed to be a common trait to poor old Paddy as of late) ::  "You may note in my record that I was involved in an away-mission a few years ago, during which time I ... mm... 'acquired' an additional personality.  One that seems to take pleasure in making my life miserable at usually the worst possible times "

:: He gave Tu'rek what would be the mental equivalent of a kick in the shins. ::

"I'm carrying the Katra of a Vulcan archaeologist in my mind.  One who likes to 'explore' his surroundings some times."

:: Talt smiles gently . ::

[Talt] "It's all right, Lieutenant.  Really." :: She says very sincerely.  And then smiles mischeviously. :: "Besides, if he's a Vulcan, then he isn't taking "pleasure" in your discomfort, is he?  This is not to say that he's not torturing you for some other reason. "

:: Talt  is laughing gently, not at O'Connell, but at the predicament. ::

[Talt] "Besides, I imagine, he would like to explore his surroundings being an archaeologist and all.  May I meet him?  Or do you wish to translate?"

:: Talt gets a little serious then and her brows furrow slightly.  She bites on one lip. ::

[Talt] "Hmmm.  I'm not really used to group evaluations, but I think . . ." :: her thoughts wander off.

[O'CONNELL] ~~ Now look what you've gotten me into, you Vulcan hitch-hiker!  I'm your bloody tourguide!  If you want to talk,... then talk.  Just don't embarrass me!  ~~

~~  I will endeavour to ensure the pristine reputation of your perceived sanity, Padraigh.  ~~

"If you'd like to talk to Tu'rek, Lieutenant... be my guest.  God knows I've had to listen to him long enough."

:: Padraigh slumped his shoulders resignedly.  ::

[Talt] :: looks concerned :: "Oh, Lieutenant, you misunderstand me.  I am certainly capable of speaking to yourself and Mr. . . Tu'rek at the same time.  I just didn't want to go where I was not invited.  And really, Lieutenant.  If you'd rather I didn't pry, I won't."

:: She ends that on a firm note. ::

[O'CONNELL] :: seeing the concern in her expression, realized that she only had his best interests at heart. ::

"I don't mind, Lieutenant... the more the merrier!  After my away-mission, I spent a couple of months convalescing on Vulcan, and their scientists got to have their fair share of stirring my brains.  Come on in and join the party."

~~  That is a most agreeable attitude, Padraigh.  You seem to be maturing in your understanding of our relationship ~~

~~ Yeah, yeah... just behave yourself! ~~

:: Talt shakes her head and smiles ::

[Talt] "Ah, Vulcans. No offense Mr. Tu'rek.  You see, Lieutenant.  Betazed telepathy is not like that."

:: She looks down at the floor and rocks her head a little. ::

[Talt] "I guess I shouldn't have used that "to go/invited" metaphor.  It's not accurate."

:: Mirifice looks back up at O'Connell smiling.  Then she looks off into space as she wrestles with a concept. ::

[Talt] "Betazed telepathy is more like . . . hearing. It's not intrusive, and it's also not something that can be "turned off".  Therefore, Betazed learn at an early age not to 'eavesdrop' on mental activity that does not concern them.  It's kind of like the hum of the ships' engines, you notice if something's different or if they change suddenly.  Otherwise . . ." :: Talt shrugs. ::

[Talt] "I heard another voice in the room.  But I have to have your permission in order to be able to listen to what he's saying.  And . . ."  :: she winks at O'Connell :: "that goes for anything you might be thinking as well.”

[O’CONNELL]  ~~  Oh, here we go...  OK, Tu'rek... here's the deal.  You keep me in reasonable control and prevent me from babbling on like an idiot, and I'll let you speak up every once in a while.  Deal?  ~~

~~  Padraigh, I cannot repair the damage that you think you may have done, but I can point out however that you in fact have been making an 'agreeable' impression on everyone so far.  Might I suggest that you relax and let events unfold as they may?  And ... yes... I will behave.  ~~

"Fair enough, Lieutenant.  I guess I'll let Tu'rek jump in or answer any questions you may have for him."

:: Talt leans forward a little, her arms drop to her sides.  She smiles happily at Lt. O'Connell. ::

[Talt] "Thank you, Lt.  That really is very sweet of you.  He's lucky to have found you, Lt. O'Connell."

:: Then, Talt stands up straight and keeps her arms and hands at her sides.  She looks into O'Connells eyes and lets the sparkle drain from her face.  She becomes very much the professional ::

[Talt] :: her voice is firm and steady :: "Mr. Tu'rek, I am Lieutenant Mirifice Talt, Counselor for the Chronos.  Please be welcome to my office."

:: Talt bows slightly. ::

[CONNELL ] "Thank you, Lieutenant for your invitation.  However, may I point out that I am forced by my current situation to go where ever Padraigh goes.  It is most agreeable to make your acquaintance."

~~ Smooth.. yeah, you didn't embarrass me there... noooo.... ~~

:: Talt cocks her head slightly.::

[Talt] "I did not want to let the dictates of your circumstance hinder your welcome here.  It is an honor to meet you as well. ::

[O'CONNELL] "Ah, he wants me to give you that little Vulcan wave, but I can't make my fingers go like that.  You'll have to bear with him... he's not too good in social settings.  All he meant to say was 'pleased to meet you' "

~~ Isn't that right, Tu'rek?  And you're telling ME to relax...! ~~

:: When Padraigh starts to speak, Talt's face relaxes into a bright smile again.  Her posture loosens up, and she returns to leaning on the desk edge. ::

[Talt] "It's allright, Lieutenant.  I can barely do it myself.  And Mr. Tu'rek seems fine in social settings, just different than me, different than you.  I'm sure you remember "infinite diversity in infinite combinations"." :: Talt shrugs a little. ::  "It's those combinations that make life . . . fun!" :: She finishes up with eyes bright.  Then she seems to be caught up by an enthusiasm.  Her eyes get really wide and she bounces up off of the desk. ::

[Talt] "So, do you think you can teach me how to use the Transporter?"

[O'CONNELL] "Sure.  It's simple, really.  You stand on it and say, 'Energize'... sorry, old Engineering joke.  Actually, I suppose I could show you around it.  I'm running some diagnostics on it before the ship departs, and I'll probably tear it down and refit it once we're under way.  Any time that you're free, I can show you the basics of it..."

:: Padraigh seemed to be more relaxed talking about familiar things.  Tu'rek remained quiet, hoping that Paddy would gain a little more self-confidence around the Doctor.  He realized that Paddy would have to get beyond his memory of Shannon in order to work effectively near Talt, and this would only come about with gradual interaction::

:: Talt just barely restrains herself from giving a small clap of joy.  She smiles brightly at Lt. Connell.  She actually laughs at the Engineering joke.  She hasn't heard it before.  ::

[Talt] "Oh, Lieutenant.  That'd be wonderful.  I'm afraid I have to throw this party tonight so I won't be able to look over your shoulder for the diagnostics but maybe sometime tomorrow, I could come down and crawl around in the machinery with you."

:: Talt's eyes get comically large and she laughs at herself ruefully. ::

[Talt] "Oh, my.  Pardon me Lieutenant.  I didn't mean for that to sound that way at all.  I guess, even Counselor's are subject to Freudian slips.  I'm sorry."

:: Talt continues to laugh gently and shake her head. ::

[O'CONNELL] ::When Talt mentioned about '...crawling around in the machinery..', Paddy's mind flashed back to another place, another time...

~~  ... in the fields... a bright sunny day... She had her hair tied up with a red ribbon... they had the whole universe ahead of them...  nothing would tear them apart...  ~~

~~  Tu'rek!! Help me out here, buddy!! ~~

"I'm sorry, Lieutenant..." :: he said, shyly.  "I guess you caught me off guard there for a moment.  Don't worry, I know what you meant."

:: Talt chuckles. ::

[Talt] "Thank you, Lieutenant.  That is very gracious of you." :: Talt looks down at her desk and sighs.  Then she stands up. ::

[Talt] "Well, Lieutenant O'Connell.  All done.  I hope I get a chance to see you at the party.  If not, then tomorrow."

[O'CONNELL] "Oh, I'll be there tonight.  I've got the diagnostic running on automatic.  I'm just hoping I'll have a chance to check on it after the party's over.  Ah, I look forward to seeing you there, Lieutenant."

[Talt] :: smiles a little and cocks her head. :: "Thank you, Lieutenant.  Oh, and did you want a cookie to take with you?" :: she gestures toward the plate with a gentle smile. ::

[O'CONNELL] :: getting up. ::  "Oh, none for me, thank you... but Tu'rek says he'd like another.... sorry, another joke"

~~ Now, that did not proceed as badly as you had first anticipated, Padraigh?  ~~
 
~~ Not at all, buddy.  And thanks for reigning me in there.  I have to work on letting ghosts lie. ~~

:: Talt chuckles gently at the cookie joke and escorts O'Connell to the door. ::

[Talt] "Thank you . . . both.  It's been a lovely interview."

[O'CONNELL] :: at the door, he turns ::  "My, er, OUR pleasure.  ... and thank you, Doctor, for understanding."

:: Talt smiles a little and nod gently and turn back into her office