In lieu of absent friends ...

[T'aral 0]

T'Aral didn't even twitch as the door to the CMO office chimed. "Come in."

 

A disheveled crewman carrying a pair of cases shuffled into the room. "Lieutenant? These are from Ensign T'Vala, in Fabrication. She said that it was urgent and classified."

 

T'Aral nodded. "Thank you - please wait outside until I call for you." As the door shut behind the crewman, she stood and walked around her desk, opening a case marked 'B-p-g/bl/gs'. She examined the contents thoroughly, critically inspecting the workmanship. Although the order was rushed due to immediate need it was critical that quality was not compromised. The finest workmanship and care was needed, as such factors directly influenced the results.

 

Several minutes of intense scrutiny eventually satisfied T'Aral. Logically it was unnecessary; T'Vala was a skilled and dedicated fabricator, who never approached a task partially. Each assignment was completed on time with an intensity and dedication which identified the best of Vulcan artisans. These were more than just fabrications, they were an expression of T'Vala herself.

 

She stepped back to her desk, gazing at her monitor in an almost annoyed fashion. An explanation would be in order, and due to the nature of the item the wording would require an almost human quality to it. To be so ... informal ... was painful to T'Aral, but it was necessary.

 

Tifa:

 

I will be speaking to the Captain regarding your situation, though I cannot suggest what the outcome will be at this time. I regret that I cannot offer better counseling than patience, and I am reluctant to provide a pharmaceutical solution for your condition as that may create further problems.

 

The results of my investigations on separation anxiety have, unfortunately, focused on juveniles; and have provided only juvenile answers. All the same: as this is a form of therapy which has proven results, I hope you will accept this in the spirit it is offered. I provide it with your well-being foremost in mind.

 

Regards,

 

T'Aral

 

She printed out the letter, then stepped over to the case. Within it leaned a plush bear; 24" tall with soft, fine green fur trimmed in a blue-black. A tight gold-lame' shirt fit snugly about its midsection, and a close inspection suggested that T'Vala had deduced what T'Aral was attempting ... even the eye color was correct. The note was placed in the bear's arms as she packed it back away, sealing the case securely.

 

Calling the crewman back in, she offered him the single case. "Deliver this to Lieutenant Kvar - see to it she receives it at her quarters, and no where else." With a nod the crewman was dismissed, and T'Aral closed the door. turning about she looked at the remaining case and its rather neutral descriptive tag: 'B-p-t/br/rs'.

 

T'Vala was exceptionally intuitive; T'Aral was certain that what was hidden inside the case was exactly what she intended. Although the Commander was of a stronger resolve than the Lieutenant, she had no doubt that both of these emotional beings were suffering similarly. T'Aral would have to clear this with Lieutenant Haruno: providing gifts to prisoners was a questionable act, and there was the concern of embarrassing the Commander ... something T'Aral very much didn't wish to do.

 

So many questions; she would have to meditate on the matter. The answer would present itself.