Log #2 ... preparations

[T'aral 0]

Leutenant Gina Baliss stepped into the CMO office to find T'Aral reviewing inventory levels. "Here's the report on Leutenant Shontuk's physical - generally in good health, with a bit of scarring on his right antennae. It does not appear to hinder him."

T'Aral nodded. "Noted; if it becomes troublesome, electrostimulant massage is recommended."

Baliss noted the recommendation. "May I ask you something?"

T'Aral nodded again. "Of course, Leutenant."

Gina sat down in front of T'Aral's desk. "Why didn't you perform the physical yourself? That is customary with senior officers."

T'Aral set her inventory scan to pause, then regarded Lt. Baliss directly. "I requested that you perform the physical for two reasons. First: for reasons that I do not understand, Senior staff officers object to my performing my duties. Second: Andorians and Vulcans have only recently ended a very long conflict. There is no need to complicate interaction on board the ship by forcing the new Security Chief to accept my presence."

Gina looked at T'Aral quizzically. "Isn't it illogical to harbor resentment?"

T'Aral simply nodded in reply. "It is also illogical to expect emotional beings to act logically. I did not say that I was troubled with the Security Chief's assignment - only that he may be troubled with mine. In the best interests of the ship, I attempt to mantain a respectful distance between myself and those who object to me."

Gina chuckled to T'Aral. "At this rate, you're going to end up shut in this room 24/7."

T'Aral re-activated her screen and returned to her work. "If that is necessary for the good of the ship and the effectiveness of the crew, then that is the way things will be."