Posted by Civilian Thyr Th’arialat (Resident) in Side sim: Rendezvous

Posted by Lieutenant Séan Iven (Counselor) in Side sim: Rendezvous

Posted by Civilian Thyr Th’arialat (Resident) in Side sim: Rendezvous
Posted by… suppressed (77) by the Post Ghost! 👻
Séan was at the fountain he found his first night on Oed. He was sitting on a bench with one leg crossed over his knee and he was reading a PaDD. He was out of uniform and a bit early for the meet-up time with Thyr. It would probably help to keep their cover if it looked like he wasn’t waiting for someone to arrive.

Counselor Iven

Thyr was a couple minutes late for their meetup. He showed up in more typical clothes, a heavy duty shirt and jeans with sneakers, and took a seat on the bench. “Evening.”

~ Thyr

“Good evening.” Séan greeted back while setting the PaDD down in his lap and turned his attention to his companion. “Have any difficulties finding this place?”

Counselor Iven

The Andorian shook his head. “Believe it or not, there aren’t that many fountains in squares.” He gave the square a quick look around, as if checking for something, then looked back to Séan. “It is a little… out of my comfort zone, shall we say.”

~ Thyr

Séan spread his hands slightly and smiled. “Well you’re choosing the next spot so pick somewhere that is in your comfort zone. Speaking of comfort, how is your injury doing?”

Counselor Iven

“I’ll think about it while we talk,” he replied, leaning back on the bench. “Still a little sore, but healing,” Thyr answered, a little defensively. “Shouldn’t be a problem much longer.”

~ Thyr

Séan nodded. “I’m glad to hear that. Have you had any more problems with drunk Klingons?”

Counselor Iven

Thyr shook his head. “If I had, I’d be more bruised. You just here to ask me if I’ve been in trouble?” He asked irritably. “I’ve been back to that bar but I didn’t talk to anyone. And that stupid shop actually keeps me pretty busy.”

~ Thyr

“I’m not your parole officer, I don’t care if you get into another fight or in trouble, as long as no one dies.” Séan said with a shake of his head. “I’m interested in your wellbeing though now that you’re my patient. Whether you believe I have your wellbeing in mind is entirely up to you. The arrangement was to talk and that’s what I’m interested in.”

Counselor Iven

“You don’t think I kill people for fun, do you?” Thyr asked, glancing at Séan. “I believe you. What I don’t get is why. What do you want to talk about?” This wasn’t his idea, if Séan wanted to talk, Séan could decide about what.

~ Thyr

“I don’t know yet if you enjoy killing or not.” Séan said with a shrug as he continued watching Thyr. “I want to talk about you but the last time you were the topic you got a little testy. So let’s narrow the scope a little bit. You tell me what is good to talk about and what is off limits.”

Counselor Iven

“I’m neutral towards it,” Thyr said. “I don’t do it purely for fun, I’m not a total psychopath.” But he wouldn’t hesitate either. And back on the ship, if he’d been ordered to do it, he would. “My past is off limits, at least for now.” He answered quickly. “Ask about me if you want but don’t go looking for my history.”

~ Thyr

Séan nodded. “Alright. I take it from our last conversation that you don’t really like Oed. Why is that exactly? Is it because it’s a planet and not a ship?”

Counselor Iven

“It’s not Oed specifically… In fact if I weren’t in my current predicament I suspect I could do a lot of business here. Assuming I didn’t get caught by Starfleet. And relax. I was better at avoiding Starfleet as a criminal than I apparently am as… Whatever I am now.” Thyr shrugged. “I didn’t choose to come here. I don’t want to give up my old life. I like my old life.”

~ Thyr

Séan grinned wryly at Thyr’s comment about avoiding Starfleet better as a criminal. He assumed Thyr had the support of the Syndicate to help with that. A thought came to him. “You liked your old life. Not that I’m condoning a life of crime or anything, but it sounds like you can’t go back. Which I understand to a point how unforgiving ‘they’ could be. Since you can’t go back why not make something that you can like here?”

Counselor Iven

“Not only do I owe so much money, but I crossed… ‘them’. The only thing going back can get me is some form of horrifyingly painful death. They’d… Break every bone in my body and then harvest my organs live. Or worse.” He shook his head and shrugged. “There is nothing else I like. Never has been. I like weapons and space.”

~ Thyr

Séan nodded in understanding. “Well obviously you can’t go back with a dismal end like that lined up. You’re going to go crazy if you can’t find something to do here though. Something you would enjoy.”

Counselor Iven

Thyr shrugged. “Then I’ll go crazy eventually I guess.” Or do something dumb and get involved in crime. He wasn’t exactly known for bright decisions. He was the weapons guy, not the idea guy. “I make weapons. I practice fighting skills, when I’m not injured. I guess that’s it now.” It was boring, so boring he was going to go crazy just from the boredom.

~ Thyr

“Practice fighting skills?” Séan asked. The words were familiar but what exactly did he mean?

Counselor Iven

“Hand to hand and martial arts.” Thyr answered. The hand to hand he practiced was actually the very same hand to hand style used by Starfleet Officers, not that he’d mention it. Thyr had once attended Academy.

~ Thyr

Séan’s eyes lit up. “Do you do any sparring then? I’ve been looking for a sparring partner who could give me a bit of a challenge.”

Counselor Iven

“I do,” Thyr said, grinning, “But I don’t play nice.” He recalled his sparring matches with Jezem. Several of them had ended in one of them bleeding. “I could maybe tone it back for you.”

~ Thyr

“You know, I was going to say the very same thing.” Séan laughed as he replied to Thyr’s bravado. “How much longer do you expect to finish healing? I don’t want to unfairly take advantage of your injured status. I’m not a drunken Klingon.”

Counselor Iven

Thyr shrugged, patting his injury very gently. “To be 100%? Another week to two weeks, maybe. It’s already good enough it’s not going to start bleeding or anything. Just a bit sore.” A bit was an understatement. It was still very sore and getting thrown around by a Klingon hadn’t helped.

~ Thyr

“Then we’ll put a pin in that idea for a few more weeks and that’ll give me a chance to find a gym or something that has a sparring ring. Most of my martial art involves throws and joint locks, so I don’t want to toss you around on concrete.” Séan said with a nod and a grin. “So did you have any questions for me beyond why I want to have talks with you?”

Counselor Iven

“Throws and joint locks, huh? Thanks for the heads up.” Thyr said. He looked at Séan, considering the question. “You were on freight crew, right? That’s how you blew my cover. So, why Starfleet?” Then he made a face, “Actually, forget it. I don’t want to know. To hell with that.” He changed his question. “Why counselling? What makes you want to find weird strangers in bars and shrink their heads?”

~ Thyr

“You’ll still need to get within grappling range so the heads up won’t help you much.” Séan said with a smirk. “I got into counseling because I’m good at working with people. I could have gone into security or intelligence but I much prefer helping people and it’s intellectually stimulating to kind of problem solve what is causing people to be distressed.”

Counselor Iven

“Then what do you think about me, so far?” Thyr asked curiously, wanting to know what Séan knew or thought he knew. “And why would you not pick intelligence?”

~ Thyr

“I mean I’ve only met you twice, so I’m not really sure how accurate my read on you is. If you’re fine with a surface level assessment then I could go into that.” Séan said then answered the next question. “Intelligence tend to get into some intrigues that I’m not interested in. Cloak and dagger nonsense really isn’t for me. I’m not exactly an inconspicuous person.”

Counselor Iven

Thyr glanced at him. “No, you’re not. Despite your initial impression of me, I’ve pulled off a fair few incognito jobs. You don’t seem like the type for them.” He shrugged, “Surface assessment’s fine. Not really sure what the difference is anyway.”

~ Thyr

Séan shrugged. “I’m just a big guy and big guys stand out. Surface assessment is like the fact that you’re left-handed, have anger issues, think that you’re smarter than you are, take pride in the skills that you’ve developed, and are listless that you can’t use them. You’re a person of simple motivations and those motivations are probably easily leveraged to get you to do things.”

Counselor Iven

“What do you mean, ‘easily leveraged’? No one makes me do anything I don’t want to. No one. Ever.” Except Jezem. He still respected Jezem as the captain of their pirate ship. He was still not mentioning Jezem, just in case. He scowled at Séan’s assessment. But he was not going to get angry and prove him right. However insulting it was. “Fair. I guess.” He managed.

~ Thyr

Séan gave Thyr a level look for a few seconds then shrugged. “That’s why it’s a surface level assessment. I can get some things wrong or you could be putting up enough of an act that you mislead me. But I’m a great judge of character and your acting skills suck. Well maybe suck isn’t exactly the right word here. Uninspired? Unmotivated? Either way you weren’t putting in the effort with that Klingon.”

Counselor Iven

“I do have anger issues,” Thyr admitted. “Kind of what landed me in the world of crime. And why I couldn’t control myself when that Klingon threw me.” He sighed slightly, “And besides that Klingon being a..” there was a curse word there, “I was injured by a Klingon too. I’ve had my fill of Klingons.”

~ Thyr

Séan nodded sympathetically. “If you don’t mind my asking, why did a previous Klingon injure you?”

Counselor Iven

“A debt I couldn’t pay after I lost my standing with my previous employers. She… recognized me, shortly after I arrived here and took me by surprise. I’d be dead if I hadn’t had help.” Thyr winced at the memory, both laying on the ground, stabbed and struggling to breathe while Jezem fought to protect him, and a fuzzy memory from after that, Jezem had been trying to keep him alive and had put pressure on the wound and it had hurt… A lot. And then next thing he remembered he was waking on Jezem’s dining room table. “That help happened to be Orion… Hence the odd choice of clothing I took a liking to.”

~ Thyr

Thyr’s body language indicated there were parts of the story he left out. The Orion who helped him… wasn’t a random passerby. Séan made note of that but didn’t expose Thyr’s holding back. He was free to having some privacy afterall and clearly did not want to implicate whoever was helping him on Oed. An Orion though huh? “Saved twice from two separate Klingons huh? Hopefully you’re fully healed by the time a third takes a shot at you with the way your luck is going.”

Counselor Iven

“This far out I never expected to run into her!” Thyr griped angrily. “Everything since that job went wrong has been bad luck after bad luck. The only lucky thing was being saved… And I can’t say that’s lucky if things keep going the way they have been. I’d rather be stabbed by a Klingon than the alternative.”

~ Thyr

“That… sounds rather ominous.” Séan said with some concern. “It sounds like you went from one deadly situation to another bad one by coming here. Was coming to Oed even your choice?”

Counselor Iven

Thyr shook his head. “I spent the last funds I had on two things: my name, and a ride the hell away from the last place I was seen. Only ship heading somewhere I wouldn’t be recognized was headed here. I paid the crew off to say I was part of their crew. I didn’t have any money for anything else. I’m stuck here, and all I can do is hope no one recognizes me and turns me in. My former employers are actively looking for me, and if they track me here, they will kill me and anyone who helped me. My current employer is protecting me from my regular debtors and to an extent from… Everything else. But it’s far from a perfect solution.”

~ Thyr

“You’re stuck the only place you could go and have to look over your shoulder constantly. You’ve already been jumped by someone who knows you and you’re incredibly on edge.” Séan shook his head in sympathy. “Not to sound like a paragon of virtue or anything, but doesn’t that make you wonder if you’ve made the wrong choices in life?”

Counselor Iven

Thyr scoffed. “What are you, my priest?” He shook his head. “I made the wrong choice a long time ago. Everything else is a result of that.” As if to prove Séan’s point, someone dropped a box outside a business near them and the somewhat loud noise it caused made The jump and look. With a sigh and a deep breath, he quickly scanned the area with his gaze and then turned back to Séan. “So what if I have? I can’t go back and change it now. Unless your Starfleet buddies have unlocked the secret of time travel.”

~ Thyr

“Uh, potentially there are several methods of time travel but I don’t think it’s really the solution. Even if you could go back in time and straighten your younger self out it wouldn’t change anything for you. At least that’s to my best understanding and I am not a scientist.” Séan said while he shook his head again. “I’m not trying to be your priest or anything, I’m just concerned that a wrong decision in your past has you locked into making wrong decisions. Couldn’t there be a way to break the cycle? Maybe learn to change your thinking into something where you find a new interest, hobby, or skillset that you can be happy with?”

Counselor Iven

Thyr shrugged. “If there is, I don’t know how. There’s nothing else I’ve ever been interested.” And he’d tried making what he liked a career. He’d ruined that with his anger. “I’m not even sure what the cycle looks like.”

~ Thyr

Séan listened attentively to Thyr’s concerns and nodded understandingly. He took a moment to gather his thoughts before responding.

“Thyr, I understand what you mean by not being able to recognize being stuck in a bad decision cycle. It’s when we find ourselves repeatedly making choices that lead to negative outcomes or prevent us from reaching our goals. Breaking out of such a cycle can be challenging, but it’s certainly possible.”

He paused for a moment, searching for the right words to offer guidance. “To break a bad decision cycle, the first step is self-awareness. Take a close look at the decisions you’ve been making and the patterns that emerge. Identify the recurring mistakes or behaviors that contribute to the negative outcomes. This awareness will help you gain clarity and insight into the cycle you’re caught in.”

Séan leaned forward, his voice filled with empathy. “Next, it’s important to analyze the underlying reasons for these decisions. Are there any deep-rooted fears, beliefs, or emotional triggers influencing your choices? Understanding the motivations behind your actions can help you address the root causes and make more conscious decisions.”

He continued, “Once you have identified the patterns and underlying factors, it’s time to break the cycle by introducing new perspectives and strategies. Explore alternative options and consider the potential outcomes of different choices. Ideally the outcomes should be positive for you and those around you.”

Counselor Iven

Thyr spent several moments considering this idea. His decisions weren’t bad. He liked being Shivan the criminal. He wanted to be Shivan the criminal. This whole business with Thyr the weapons shop owner was supposed to be temporary. Not that he had any idea how to solve his problems.

“I’m impulsive. Angry.” He said after several moments of silence. What was it Jezem used to say? That he was an utter moron, yes, but what else? “I.... I don’t know,” he growled, getting frustrated. “What exactly is this supposed to help?”

~ Thyr

Séan nodded understandingly, acknowledging Thyr’s frustration and confusion. He understood that Thyr was grappling with conflicting desires and emotions.

“I hear you, Thyr. It’s clear that you’re feeling conflicted about your identity and the choices you’ve made. It’s natural to have these internal struggles, especially when different aspects of ourselves seem to pull us in different directions.”

Séan leaned forward, his voice gentle and compassionate. “The purpose of this exploration is not to invalidate your desires or force you into a particular mold. Rather, it’s about understanding yourself on a deeper level and finding a path that aligns with your values and brings you a sense of fulfillment and contentment.”

Séan’s voice was irritatingly calming and gentle. It was simultaneously calming and infuriating and that was driving Thyr crazy. Using his name might’ve worked better if it were actually his name. Shivan. Not Thyr. Something he could never tell Séan. “My values don’t line up with… most people’s.” He was going to say a criminal’s. But he shouldn’t say that too much in public like this.

He continued, “By taking the time to reflect on your impulsive and angry tendencies, you can start to gain insight into their origins and the impact they have on your life. Are these emotions driven by past experiences, unaddressed traumas, or certain triggers? Exploring these aspects can help you find healthier ways to channel your emotions and make more informed decisions.”

Counselor Iven

Thyr punched the bench, his frustration and anger bubbling over and resulting in the emotional display. “I don’t have unaddressed traumas! I said I didn’t want to talk about the past!” He was trying to cool off, he didn’t want to make a scene. He clenched a fist, digging his nails into his palm.

~ Thyr

Séan was surprised at Thyr’s outburst of anger. It wasn’t off brand for the Andorian and he should have seen it coming but he hadn’t. He gave Thyr a couple moments to cooldown before he responded. “It’s alright, we don’t have to talk about anything you don’t want to. I was just listing off all of the possible causes and didn’t mean to say that any of those were yours.”

Counselor Iven

Thyr nodded, taking even breaths, still trying to cool off. “I don’t know why that set me off.” He said, a little calmer now. He’d noticed he surprised Séan. “You didn’t expect it either?”

~ Thyr

“Not like that, no.” Séan said as he shook his head. “My professional opinion is you have some issues to work through but I’m not going to poke at you to find out what until you’re ready.”

Counselor Iven

Thyr frowned and nodded. “I don’t know when or if I’ll be ‘ready’ for that.” He commented, finally releasing the clenched fist. “I’ll… I’ll get angry.”

~ Thyr

Séan nodded. “Anger often happens in that process. That won’t be new for me but it’s not something we need to cross just yet.”

Counselor Iven

“What should we do?” Thyr asked, unsure how to continue the conversation. He wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for Séan’s blackmail of him. He’d rather do almost anything but this. Maybe he could skate by talking about something inconsequential. “The shop has been busier than I expected.” He commented. He was terrible at small talk.

~ Thyr

Thyr’s attempt to shift the conversation to a more mundane topic didn’t go unnoticed by Séan. Recognizing Thyr’s discomfort, Séan decided to accommodate his request and engage in a less personal discussion.

“I’m glad to hear that your shop is experiencing success,” Séan replied, offering a small smile. “Running a business can be demanding, but it can also be rewarding. Is there anything specific that you find challenging or particularly enjoyable about being a shop owner?”

Séan’s intention was to create a space where Thyr could feel more at ease and discuss a subject that didn’t delve into his personal struggles. By focusing on Thyr’s experiences as a shop owner, Séan hoped to provide a conversational path that felt less intrusive and more manageable for Thyr.

Counselor Iven

“I can’t balance books on my life. I’m nobody’s finance guy.” Thyr replied. “I hate the business side of it. I’m in it for the weapons. You do this illegally you don’t have to keep legit books.” He shrugged, “but part of my deal, since you’re not the only person blackmailing me, is if I do anything illegal my shop gets taken away and so does my protection.”

~ Thyr

Thyr’s frustration with the business aspects of owning a shop was apparent in his response. Séan listened attentively, understanding Thyr’s predicament and the restrictions placed upon him.

“I can understand how the administrative side of running a shop can be burdensome, especially when it’s not your primary interest,” Séan acknowledged. “It seems like you have multiple challenges to navigate, including maintaining the legality of your operations to protect your shop and yourself.”

Séan paused for a moment, considering Thyr’s situation. He then continued, “Finding a balance between your passion for weaponry and the practicalities of running a legitimate business can be complex. Perhaps there are strategies or resources that can help lighten the load, while still keeping within the legal boundaries?”

Counselor Iven

“I don’t know. I’m planning to ask-” he paused and cut himself off, he was getting too loose lipped. “someone I know who’s good with that stuff but he’s been busy.” He shrugged. “I’ll manage, for now. I guess. Not that I have a choice. My profits go to my employer, to pay for the debts that were settled on my behalf.”

~ Thyr

Thyr’s mention of seeking assistance from someone knowledgeable in managing the business side of things caught Séan’s attention. However, Thyr’s hesitation and sudden change in his statement indicated that he might be holding back some information.

“I understand that you have certain obligations and debts to fulfill,” Séan responded, choosing his words carefully. “While it’s important to honor your commitments, it’s also crucial to ensure that you’re not being taken advantage of or trapped in a cycle that prevents your personal growth and freedom.”

Séan paused for a moment, allowing his words to sink in before continuing. “If there’s anything more you’d like to share or discuss, whether it’s about the challenges you’re facing or the choices you feel compelled to make, please know that I’m here to listen and offer support. Sometimes, talking about our concerns with someone outside our immediate circumstances can provide new perspectives and potential solutions.”

Counselor Iven

Thyr had no idea whether Eryn was taking advantage of him in some way. He assumed so, in some way, no one offered you things for nothing. But she did pass Jezem’s vibe check so… Maybe she was okay? He didn’t know. “It’s not a choice. Whether I’m being taken advantage of or trapped or not, if I broke this commitment I would have nothing.” Nothing except Jezem, which was better than actually nothing, but there was only so much a rich ex-criminal could do. He nodded to the rest of Séan’s words, thinking. “In my line of work you learn there’s very, very few people you can truly trust.”

~ Thyr

Séan nodded, understanding Thyr’s perspective. Trust was indeed a rare commodity, especially in certain lines of work where loyalty could be fleeting.

“I can appreciate that trust is hard to come by, particularly given the circumstances you find yourself in,” Séan replied, his tone sympathetic. “However, it’s important to remember that not everyone may have the same motives or intentions. While caution is warranted, it’s also worth considering that there might be individuals who genuinely want to help you and see you succeed.”

“No one gives for nothing.” Thyr replied. “Everybody wants something in return. There’s always strings. It all just depends on what the strings are. What their ulterior motive is.” Thyr’s personal experience backed up what he said. He’d never met anyone who didn’t break his trust, backstab him, or come back with a return favor.

He paused for a moment, then continued, “Building trust takes time, and it often starts with small steps. If you’re unsure about someone’s intentions, perhaps you can observe their actions over time, engage in open and honest communication, and assess whether their words align with their deeds. It’s a delicate balance, but finding those few people you can trust can make a significant difference.”

Counselor Iven

“People put on facades all the time.” Thyr replied bitterly. “They’ll do and say whatever they need to do to win you over and then when the time is right?” He smacked one hand with the other, making a loud sound. “They backstab you.”

~ Thyr

Thyr’s skepticism and bitter experiences had shaped his view of others, making it difficult for him to trust anyone. Séan understood the weight of such past experiences and the impact they could have on one’s perception of others.

“I understand that your experiences have led you to be cautious and skeptical of people’s motives,” Séan acknowledged, his voice gentle yet firm. “It’s true that some individuals may have ulterior motives or hidden agendas. However, it’s important to recognize that not everyone falls into that category. While there may be those who betray your trust, there are also genuine and trustworthy individuals out there.”

“No, you don’t!” Thyr snapped. “How could you? You don’t even know what those experiences are.”

Séan leaned forward slightly, his gaze focused on Thyr. “It’s true that people can put on facades, but there are also those who remain true to their words and actions. Building trust requires careful observation and discernment, but it’s not an impossible task. It’s about finding the few individuals who demonstrate consistency, integrity, and a genuine desire to support you.”

He paused, then added, “It’s okay to be cautious, Thyr. But don’t let your past experiences completely close you off from the possibility of finding true allies. Trust can be earned, and it starts by taking small steps and giving others a chance to prove themselves.”

Counselor Iven

Thyr shook his head and shrugged. He didn’t even trust Jezem, not fully. He’d been absolutely surprised when Jezem saved him in that alley, and surprised again when Jezem fed him, let him stay, spent money on him. He was sure there was some hidden agenda there. Something Jezem was wanting. He just didn’t know what it was yet… “You can’t know for sure. And the closer you let someone, the more damage they do when they eventually hurt you.”

~ Thyr

Séan listened attentively to Thyr’s response, understanding the deep-rooted skepticism and fear that came from his past experiences. He recognized that trust was a delicate matter and couldn’t be easily restored or established.

“You’re right. I can’t fully understand or know the specifics of your experiences,” Séan admitted, his tone empathetic. “Each person’s journey is unique, and I don’t claim to have all the answers. But what I can offer is a perspective that there are individuals out there who are worth trusting.”

He leaned back, giving Thyr some space to process his words. “Trusting someone is always a risk, and there’s a chance of getting hurt. But there’s also the possibility of finding genuine connection and support. It’s a choice you have to make, weighing the risks and rewards. Building trust takes time and vulnerability, and it’s completely understandable if you’re not ready to take that leap yet.”

Séan took a deep breath before continuing. “However, I want you to remember that not everyone is the same. Each person you encounter is an individual with their own story and character. While it’s important to be cautious, it’s also crucial to remain open to the potential for meaningful relationships.”

He locked eyes with Thyr, his voice sincere. “I’m not asking you to trust blindly or give away your vulnerability. Rather, I encourage you to keep an open mind and observe those around you. Look for consistent actions and genuine care. And when you feel ready, take small steps in building trust, at your own pace.”

Séan’s gaze softened as he concluded, “Ultimately, it’s your choice. But remember that shutting yourself off completely can also deprive you of the possibility of finding true allies and genuine connections in life.”

Counselor Iven

Thyr broke Séan’s gaze and studied the ground instead. “Do I really need that? I get on fine on my own.” He shrugged awkwardly, “It’s better that way.” He felt confused and uncertain and that made him angry. His reaction to everything was anger. “Why are you doing this? You’re trying to confuse me. I don’t like it. You trying to mess with my head?”

~ Thyr

Séan understood Thyr’s resistance and the difficulty he faced in accepting the idea of needing others. He could sense the anger and frustration beneath Thyr’s words, and he remained calm and composed in response.

“I apologize if it feels like I’m trying to confuse you or mess with your head,” Séan replied sincerely. “That is not my intention. I’m here because I genuinely believe that everyone deserves support and connection in their lives, even if it’s not something they feel they currently need.”

Counselor Iven

Thyr nodded. He was thinking of Jezem, and his husband Argam. That Ferengi. They really did love each other. How did Jezem do that? Connect with someone like that? Thyr didn’t understand it. Never could, probably never would. “Your overwhelming sincerity makes me wanna puke, just so you know.” The comment was his lashing out, his defence.

~ Thyr

Séan grinned at Thyr in response. “I think I’m warming up to you too Thyr. I’m glad that you’ve recognized the sincerity I’m putting into this.”

Counselor Iven

Thyr gave him a look. “You’re obnoxious,” He said, “And I still think you make no sense.” He leaned back against the bench and shrugged. “So.... Trust connects you to the world, huh? Other people?” He said it like it was utterly ridiculous.

~ Thyr

Séan nodded. “I couldn’t be in Starfleet if I didn’t trust the officers around me. There are varying degrees of trust given of course, and very few earn my trust to the point I’d give my life to keep them safe, but I leave the door for the possibility. I think it’s better to not live in fear of getting stabbed in the back.” He thought to himself, ‘Or in the leg.’

Counselor Iven

“What do you do when you do get stabbed, then?” Thyr asked, speaking metaphorically. To him, it wasn’t an if but a when. The only factor was how much damage it did when it happened. Both personally, and to the job at hand. “I don’t understand why you would have to trust other officers to serve. You’re paid to do a job. Same as me. Sometimes that involves working with other people. Doesn’t mean you have to trust them.”

~ Thyr

Thyr’s question brought up an important point about trust and its role in different professions. Séan considered the question before responding.

“You’re right, Thyr. Trusting others is not always necessary to perform certain job duties, and in some cases, it’s even wise to maintain a certain level of caution,” Séan acknowledged. “In professions where collaboration and teamwork are crucial, like law enforcement, trust among colleagues can enhance efficiency and effectiveness. It enables officers to rely on each other in critical situations and fosters a sense of camaraderie.”

Séan continued, “Even though trust is not an absolute requirement, it does have its benefits. Trust allows for better communication, cooperation, and coordination among team members. It can lead to improved outcomes and a safer work environment. However, trust is a personal choice, and the level of trust you place in others is ultimately up to you.”

Counselor Iven

“Hmm.” Thyr said. “I don’t see why it matters, then.” He changed his statement quickly, “I mean, I see the benefit of better coordination and all that.” But he was convinced he’d accomplished that without trust. Or without more than surface trust anyway. “Would you ever be able to trust me?” Not that he wanted him to, but he was curious how far Séan’s ideals went.

~ Thyr

Séan took a moment to consider Thyr’s question, recognizing the underlying curiosity and perhaps a touch of skepticism behind it. He maintained his calm demeanor as he responded.

“Trust is something that develops over time, Thyr,” Séan replied. “It’s not a switch that can be turned on or off instantly. As a counselor, my role is to provide support and guidance to those who seek it, regardless of their past or present circumstances. I approach each individual with an open mind and without preconceived judgments.”

He paused for a moment before continuing, “Trust is built through consistent actions, integrity, and a genuine willingness to understand and help others. While I can’t say for certain whether or when trust would develop between us, that is not the primary focus of our interactions. You don’t need my trust for us to talk things through.”

Counselor Iven

“Please stop saying my name,” Thyr snapped. It had been bothering him for a bit. “I think I know who you’re talking to.” Then he took a breath and shrugged. “I don’t care, I was curious.”

~ Thyr

Séan blinked in mild surprise. “Sorry if saying your name is upsetting you. I will refrain from using it if that’s what you want.”

“It bothers me. Feels… Too familiar. Almost condescending somehow.” Thyr said. Not to mention it wasn’t his name. He’d always liked his name. He’d have to get used to it.

He thought of how to best frame his next statement. “I’m not saying that you couldn’t earn my trust, but since you’re not Starfleet, a regular civilian, or a non-criminal it means that I’m not going to give you any as a default.”

Counselor Iven

“Like I said, I don’t care.” Thyr replied. “You’re a Starfleet officer which makes me distrustful of you. Only fair I don’t get trust back for nothing.”

~ Thyr

Séan nodded with a shrug. He then looked up and noticed the sky was getting darker. “Well I should get back. I got work in the morning. Have you thought of a time and place?”

Counselor Iven

“Coffee shop, a block west of my place. Let’s do… Wednesday, 7pm.” Thyr said after a moment of thought. “It’s always busy. Might be noisy, but we should blend in alright.”

~ Thyr

Séan nodded then stood from the bench. “I suppose I’ll see you then. Be well.” Then he walked away with PaDD tucked under his arm.

Counselor Iven