The Inner Mind
Posted on Wed Jul 30th, 2025 @ 6:46pm by Rear Admiral Timothy Rice & Lieutenant Vura & Brigadier General Francis 'Judge' Sobel
Edited on on Tue Aug 5th, 2025 @ 7:48am
3,187 words; about a 16 minute read
Mission:
The Amalgamation Interrogation
Location: Wardroom 1 - Habitat Ring Deck 11 - Empok Nor
Timeline: MD001 1100 hrs
"Lieutenant Vura is the ship's Counselor. Her reports have some questions about the command choices of both Commodore Malbrooke and Colonel Tremble. She would perhaps be the best person to grade the success or failure of this experiment." Rice thumbed through the reports on his PADD as he spoke to Sobel.
Sobel knew the reports and didn't bother to refer to them. He'd adjusted the cuffs and neckline of his dress tunic and eyed the foul tea Tempest had pressed him to try. Just for the day. For her.
It reminded him of something that had been siphoned through a recycling filter, scraped off and put hot water through it.
"Indeed," he finally commented. "Scuttlebutt is she doesn't like the Colonel so I'm interested to hear her views."
"Yeah, I heard that as well. The interest there is by all accounts Neil is a likeable person. In fact, she seems to be the only one who doesn't like him. Now, that could be something personal or it could be something we have missed. Vura is an accomplished psychologist." Tim replied and poured his umpteenth coffee for the day. He signaled the Yeoman assigned to assist in these meetings to show Vura in.
"Neil is probably one of the best small unit leaders in the Corp," Francis commented. "That being said, he's a prickly clot and in the past has had the tendency to revert to a bluntness only a Gunnery Sergeant should probably use with his platoon. Fleet officers might not know the difference until they've worked with him."
Vura was wearing her duty uniform for this meeting. No meeting with an admiral or a general was light. Consequently, she had little desire to show any frivolity. She even limited her jewelry to one pair of emerald studded earrings and one jade bracelet on her left arm. Her bald head was freshly cleaned and shined, as well.
She walked into the room and announced her presence as she stood straight in front of the brass, "Lieutenant Vura, reporting as ordered, sirs."
Francis gave the Deltan a once over and smiled. "Thank you for attending, Lieutenant. "As I'm sure you're aware, the Fleet and FMC have a joint program whereby officers from both Starfleet and Marines are embedded into traditional jobs held in each other's commands. Case in direct point, Colonel Tremble's assignment as XO to Pioneer. We have reports and personnel reviews of course, but Admiral Rice and I would like to hear firsthand opinions on how you think the program is working out?"
"Please consider permission to speak your mind granted. Also, be aware that anything you say will not be held against you and will not leave this room. We want honest thoughts and ideas about this program." Rice leaned forward in order to give his full attention to the Counselor. There had been a number of unconfirmed reports about how the Counselor felt toward Tremble and Marines in general.
Vura would have answered simply that she thought that the program was simply not working out, but then Rice insisted on her speaking her mind. "With all due respect, I do not believe that the program is in the best interests of either Starfleet or the Marines. The philosophies and ideals are very different, resulting in problematic interactions. From what I have observed, Starfleet has a lofty idealistic mission of peace and non-interference. The marines are more interested in conquering or military strength for solutions. I do not believe that these philosophies are reconcilable."
The Counselor paused before continuing, "I also have grave concerns regarding the marines and their views on counseling and the long-term well-being of such members."
Tim knew that this was not the first time he had heard a Counselor state their frustration with the mental health of Marines. However, in the interest of their investigation this avenue could not go unexplored. "Counselor, please tell us of these concerns. Without breaching any patient-doctor confidentiality of course. To go along with what you said of the philosophies. Does the Colonel contradict the Commodore when the latter seeks diplomacy? Does he offer any diplomatic solutions?"
Vura sighed. "Most marines appear to avoid counseling completely. The prevailing mindset seems to be that if they can get back into battle, then they're fine. Unfortunately, this does not address their actual problems and could lead to long term mental health issues. Suppressing problems often leads to problems like PTSD, depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideations. I have no desire to see that happen to anyone.
"To answer your direct questions about the Colonel, I've never seen a contradiction, nor have I seen him offer a diplomatic solution. But you are referring to the interactions between them. I have directly heard the Colonel state that if the Silence want our help, then they have to deal with being known. I believe that such strongarm diplomacy is a violation of a species' free will. For reference, this was said in a department head meeting, but the Commodore was not there."
Tim had been taking notes as Vura spoke. This time he nodded she had touched on a valid point. One that he would expound upon with the General in their discussions. "Is it safe to say that in your opinion if Marines were required to attend Counseling and be found fit for duty much in the same way as medical. That would be a step in the right direction?"
"I believe so," Vura answered simply. She had much more to say where Neal was concerned but she was not going to volunteer it unless asked. As of this moment, they only asked about how he interacted with Tyler.
"There's been that discussion before," Sobel said, considering. "Marine requirements differ than that of the Fleet in some regards. I wasn't aware Neil was in arrears on his Medical." Glancing toward Rice, he said "I thought that was a requirement for anyone taking part of the program."
"I'm sorry," Vura replied. "I have no idea if he is behind on his medical exam. However, as far as I am aware, he has not completed his psychological fitness since arriving on Pioneer. I would have to double check that with Zhara. She was on the ship before myself. I am certain that he would not want to complete it with me."
Tim decided to table the psychological conversation for the moment. Since Vura touched on Tremble's interaction with her Rice thought it best to stay on that subject for the time being. "Counselor, all niceties aside. What is the issue between the Colonel and yourself? I know that you cannot speak for him. However, I also know that it is not just he that has issues with you. From our conversations others within The Cure say that you are a genial and insightful Counselor, and some speak of your fierce friendship. They also speak of your distaste for Colonel Tremble specifically. So, I will be blunt with the next question. What is your problem with the Colonel?"
"My problem?" Vura asked, trying to understand the enormity of the question. "To be blunt, he is rude, inconsiderate, militaristic, and has no respect for the Counseling Department at all. He actually pulled me out of my office on a moment's notice in a power play. When he pulled me to his office, he said this: 'If I summon you, there's be a xaxtdamned good reason for it. Today, is about setting what is what aboard Pioneer.' In other words, it was a pure power play. I did request permission to speak freely and and this is how it went. I stood up to him and said that, 'I would rather work with you than against you. However, this tactic that you pulled today will not work with me and expecting the crew to react to this exacting behavior will not work either. This is a Starfleet ship, not a marine ship. Because you're a marine, you have to integrate both halves of your jobs. That is going to be a rather difficult task.' And do you know what his reaction to that was? He said, 'Summoning an officer is my prerogative, regardless of reason. Or for no reason whatsoever.' This is not how a commanding officer should be conducting themselves. We are here on a cooperative mission. While there is a chain of command, it should not be used for abuse or manipulation. Yet, that's exactly what Tremble is doing. If he does not care for you, then he tries to make your life a living hell for the sake of doing it."
"Had the Colonel asked for you to report to him and you refused?" Tim asked as he thought Tremble would not have responded in that manor for absolutely no reason.
"No. I would never refuse an order," Vura answered insistently.
"That doesn't sound like Tremble, ordinarily," Francis mused. "I'm a little concerned that a Chief Counselor doesn't know if the command staff's Fit Reps are up to date, especially given recent missions." Glancing toward Rice he said, "Seems we may have to pull the Command staff for a complete interview and review by BuMed.
"I do not think that is necessary. I can obtain the information easily enough. Please recall that I was assigned to specifically monitor and guide Commodore Malbrooke and Commander McGowen after their interactions with the entity named 'Malificus.' Furthermore, I was called in to assist medical during the casualties that we suffered when assisting the Silence. There has been emotional fallout from that, as well. Consequently, my efforts have been directed there, and I have delegated routine tasks accordingly. Because of the interactions that I have had with Tremble, I have mostly removed myself from the equation where he is concerned so that there is no claim of bias or other improper motive. Regardless, I can assure you that Tremble said these things and others that demonstrated his hostile attitude."
"In your statement about the incident with Colonel Tremble you stated that he pulled you from your office and stated that when he summoned you, you better have a good reason to not come. To what summons did he reference?" To Rice it seemed as if he only heard one side of a story here. As if there was a lot more that they missed.
"I don't think that's what I said, Admiral Rice. I believe that I said that he said 'if I summon you, there'd be a good goddamn reason for it.' Yet, there was none I could ascertain but his general disrespect for me or my department. I asked him if he had checked my appointment schedule before he called and he indicated he had not. I would come regardless, but to be summoned for the sake of showing who is in charge is not a good reason. With no immediacy, I would hope that he would respect my patients and their need for assistance. At least, that is how I would behave in his position."
"Maybe that's where the intercourse became strained," Sobel said thoughtfully. "As a department head. A counselor and staff officer: the viewpoint from and XO line officer and marine to boot might be expected to not see eye to eye." Forgetting himself for a second, Francis picked up his teacup and sipped.
And promptly made a face. Then forced a swallow, making a face.
"Gah that's horrendous," he muttered.
Vura offered Sobel a sympathetic smile but said nothing else, as no question was pending.
Rice actually smiled but stopped short of laughing at his friends sip of tea. "If you have a cup of coffee I won't tell the Mrs General or the doctor for that matter." Tim then shifted gears back to the Counselor. He felt that there was something that she was telling them, but for what reason he did not know. Although he could not come up with a method to get Vura to spill the proverbial beans. At least not yet. "One final question in relation to that first summons by the Colonel. Did you lodge an official complaint about the situation with the Commodore?"
"A complaint about the Commodore?" Vura looked at Rice quizzically. "I've never levied a complaint against him or anyone else. Why?"
Tim gave a sigh, one that could be interpreted as exasperation. He felt that the Counselor attempted to double talk. "No Lieutenant. I am asking if you lodged an official complaint about the situation which involved the Colonel, to Commodore Malbrooke." There was no other way to say that. Often Rice forgot that some people needed clear and concise conversation.
"Oh!" Vura exclaimed. "No. I have not had enough cause to do so at this time. I'm not a whiner. I'm more than capable of handling myself, Admiral. Besides, if I cannot handle a bully, I should just turn in my license."
Sobel had held himself in check and thought perhaps the counselor was playing some games. He'd seen it before, but he also wanted to be fair. She wasn't under his command. "Interesting, Lieutenant. May I ask how often you display your attitude and dislike for the Colonel openly? As a department head aboard Pioneer, how often does your dislike for Tremble flare around the edges, so to speak? And, not to pile on the questions, but have you spoken of your problems with him to the Commodore?"
"Again, I have not spoken to the Commodore." Did this General have ears? Did they not listen to the words that came out of her mouth? "And I display nothing towards the Colonel openly. I would not cause dissent in the ranks. The only one that has said anything to me about the Colonel is his girlfriend: Lieutenant Jayna. She is protective of him, as any girlfriend would be. I personally enjoyed my company with her, but she does not seem able to separate having a friendship with me from a relationship with him. I don't think she also appreciated the fact that I would discuss my feelings about him with her because I felt it was inappropriate. Certainly, I was not about to share the fact that he called me into his office in a power play. Besides, maybe he is different with her. It is none of my business, nor is my professional relationship or otherwise with him, hers."
"Well," Sobel drawled out. "Since we DID ask it a couple of times, Lieutenant, maybe it's because we think it's important. You've indicated a decent working relationship with the Commodore. Since you can't go to the Colonel with an interpersonal conflict the logical thought would be you talk it over with Malbrooke, even off the record if you wanted to calm the waters without putting anything into writing. But it seems that you haven't done that either, which makes me believe that this problem with Tremble is mainly one sided. His efficiency reports on you don't indicate a situation, so without complaints I have to decide there really isn't a problem."
"IF that is the way that you feel and you believe that creating a record is the only way to demonstrate the problem, then I shall do so now. Would that suffice? I assure you that the problem is not on my end." Vura replied.
It was Rice's turn to cut in. "Lieutenant, if the Colonel, or anyone for that matter oversteps their authority and creates a situation then it is your responsibility to report it to the appropriate authorities. In terms of the situation in question, that is over and done with so no report is needed. However, if something similar occurs in the future please make sure to give it the thought it needs and report as needed." Tim agreed with Francis here. The reports were needed so something could be done. He also felt that perhaps the Counselor did not like the Colonel and not the other way around. "Perhaps an attempt to start again with the Colonel is appropriate."
"I am always open to communication," Vura answered honestly. However, it seemed neither the Admiral nor the General seemed to understand that not reporting matters occurred regularly and did not mean something did not occur. They were hopelessly naïve, but that was not uncommon with those who expected everything to be by the book.
"Sadly, the general rule in both the Fleet and the Corps is if it is not on paper it did not happen. That is to say if there is no report there is no way for anyone to do anything about the situation. Said situation can continue to fester and get worse, et cetera. But, I am preaching to the choir no doubt." Tim felt that a further explanation was warranted. But, did not want to beat the proverbial dead horse.
"I handle many matters which are both on and off record, Sir. The paper trail, as you say, is not always correct or appropriate. Putting things on record often can make things worse, not better. But I do not believe that we are here to debate those merits today. You wanted to hear my views on the program. You have heard my opinion. Is there anything else that I could do for either of you?"
Rice nodded in agreement. The Counselor did have the right about even though her language could use a change. "You are too right Counselor. Too right. There is nothing more from me. Save for a request. Give the Colonel a second chance perhaps."
"Everyone is always entitled to chances. It is why I'm in counseling.... To help people improve." She still did not believe that the XO was going to stop being a bully or start respecting her position, but hope sprang eternal.
Francis maintained his well worn poker face and disposition. He mostly thought Neil had tough nut to crack at this point and wasn't quite sure the Pioneer's XO was going to be be able to adjust bubble enough for what the fleet would call a harmonious outcome. "I'm sure Neil will appreciate all the help he can get. I know we do. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us, Counselor," Sobel said. "I believe we're finished.."
"Yes Lieutenant, I would like to thank you for your time and candor. You are dismissed." Rice added. He could tell that Vura was a kind soul. A bit odd perhaps but kind.
"Thank you, Admiral and General," Vura replied demurely. "I hope that it was helpful." She then exited with a practiced calm, while her stomach churned.
A Joint Post By
Brigadier General Francis Sobel
Commanding Officer, 258th Starfleet Marine Expeditionary Brigade
Empok Nor
Rear Admiral Timothy Rice
Sector Commanding Officer, Trivas Sector
Empok Nor
Lieutenant Vura
Chief Counselor, USS Pioneer
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