Bryce Tagren-Quinn: Difference between revisions

* '''Other:''' Sometimes will dye the gray and shave the beard, which gives him an even more youthful appearance

* '''On Duty:''' Bryce considers himself a doctor first and an officer second. He is personable, sensitive, empathetic with patients, and follows the platinum rule. Is a stickler when it comes to confidentiality. Has a calm and methodical approach and doesn't fluster easily but will sometimes "over-engineer" a process and can become hyper-focused on a task (almost to detriment). Sometimes he will go off on lengthy tangents, and his mind will often work various angles a minute. Has been called an "absent-minded professor" before. He can sometimes be direct and come off as a pompous jerk, but it comes from genuinely wanting to help versus being malicious or intentionally condescending. Overall, he is conscientious and organized but also flexible depending on the situation. Work gives him purpose and focus.  

* '''Off Duty:''' Under the visage of a calm, collected physician is a troubled, older soul with a breadth of experience that can, at times, haunt him if he is allowed alone too long with his thoughts. He is sensitive (which may be surprising to some since it's buried under layers), artistic, loves oatmeal raisin and chocolate chip cookies, and has a penchant for mycology, exobotany, and plant systematics and identification. Also has an affinity for whiskey but will only drink socially, rarely (depending on his mood). Is a bit outdoorsy; likes rock-climbing, running, and hiking. Has a lopsided smile and an infectious, hearty laugh. Is warm and friendly overall but is reserved, private, and slow to open up, really open up, and trust. Because of the nature of his work and his experience in a variety of working environments, he can sometimes be mistaken as an extrovert but he is a true introvert. With family and friends, he is thoughtful (weighs logic along with another's feelings, though it can be challenging for him to express it fully and articulately/effectively at times), loyal, cares deeply, supportive, and sincere.  

No one could anticipate how he would mature, given his unique lineage. When Bryce was a child, he grew, accomplished developmental milestones, and ultimately went through puberty at the same rate as any full-blooded human. At about 19, the aging process started to slow due to his El-Aurian side and he essentially 'stopped' physically aging by his early 20s.  

Overall, the aging process is different for El-Aurian hybrids and seems to be unique to each individual based on stress, life experience, and other factors. There have been theories and studies mentioning the Hayflick limit and El-Aurian immune systems, but this remains a topic of debate. It is also said that an [https://memory-alpha.fandom.com/wiki/El-Aurian El-Aurian can age when they "choose to."]  

El-Aurian [[El-Aurian#Physiology|genes seem to be dominant in some hybrid cases]] (depending on the species), and that seems to ring true with Bryce since his systems (for example, his circulatory/cardiovascular, nervous, endocrine, and immune/lymphatic systems) are seemingly more El-Aurian than human. However, there are subtle human variations and influences. He has experienced [https://memory-alpha.fandom.com/wiki/Af-Kelt Af-Kelt], and has [[El-Aurian#Physiology|a dense hippocampus with vivid memory recall]] (which contributed to his secondary trauma - ''see Medical Notes''), and a stiff knee which might be more heightened due to [https://memory-alpha.fandom.com/wiki/El-Aurian#Biology the physical sensitivity of El-Aurians] (''see Medical Notes''). The symptoms experienced during Af-Kelt can likely be attributed to these physical sensitivities, too.

El-Aurians are also considered endangered and known to be semi-ancient and nomadic. They think of themselves as [https://memory-alpha.fandom.com/wiki/El-Aurian#Culture "listeners" (meaning that they can "hear" the world around them, likening it to "music")], have [https://memory-alpha.fandom.com/wiki/El-Aurian#Biology limited empathy and telepathy], and an innate temporal sense (although the latter of that statement may be confined primarily to those that experienced the Nexus event). However, with the present state of El-Aurian numbers and their ability to seemingly intermarry and interbreed with other species, more and more information is being gathered that would shed light on their unique biology/physiology.  

* '''Depression, Stress & Secondhand Trauma:''' After the events of the lunar colony, Bryce suffered from an excessive amount of guilt, pain, and trauma. When he returned home, the invisible wounds were apparent. While he sought medical attention (in the form of therapy, etc.), his existing relationships suffered. For a time, he fell into a black void consisting of reckless behavior and a string of one-night stands. He took some time off work before slowly reintegrating after his providers were confident that he was fit for duty. While still finding himself after those events, he actively seeks purpose in his work and finds ways to build healthy, solid friendships and working relationships. He believes wholeheartedly in robust support systems and the power of community. ''Note: Due to the timing of treatment and his overall commitment and progress, a waiver was granted, with the understanding that counseling sessions are required routinely. Was treated by Dr. Ev Randall while in the academy and on DS6, before his assignment to the Gorkon, and again after the events of the Rogue World.''  

* '''[https://memory-alpha.fandom.com/wiki/Chroniton Chroniton] Sickness or ''Sev'Kelt Veenala'''''<nowiki/>'':''<nowiki/> ''Incomplete/data loading.'' A sickness reserved specifically for El-Aurians and El-Aurian hybrids, though much literature is non-existent, and any historical data is challenging to obtain, thus making it virtually unexplored territory. Data regarding Bryce's case is currently being captured and documented by Starfleet Medical. Exposure to an abundance of chronitons on the Rogue World created a severe reaction and wreaked havoc on his system. He also noted that he had hazy, feverish dreams of "sliding through time" and went as far as stating that he "saw his own children." When he arrived on the Gorkon in early 2399, he was chronologically aged 41 with the physical appearance of a man in his early 20s. The exposure caused him to rapidly age by approximately ten years physically, grow a few inches in height, and develop premature graying around his temples. There was evidence (not an exhaustive list) of oxidative stress and telomere shortening. Treatment included but was not limited to: intense physical therapy/physiotherapy, telomere therapy, and anti-chroniton treatments. ''Overall prognosis has been determined to be good, though continued monitoring is necessary especially given the unique nature of this case. [https://memory-alpha.fandom.com/wiki/Antichroniton Anti-chroniton] treatment or prophylaxis will be necessary for any potential future exposures.''

Biological father and former Starfleet Captain (Human) of the ''USS Poseidon'' and, later, the ''SS Valestar''. He is charming and brilliant, with graying dark brown hair and dull slate-blue eyes. Father and son have a complicated history, and their relationship is tenuous at best. While he is officially "retired" from Starfleet, it is widely acknowledged that he was discharged from service. He has been known to be a bit shady, making unethical judgment calls and deflecting blame onto others. Has sociopathic tendencies. Despite all this, the man is shrouded a bit in mystery. However, part of it is likely because of the position he once held and Starfleet's desire and ability to manage the situation from a public-facing view properly.

Initially, Amy sought assistance to conceive but could not foresee a "clinical error" that would reveal itself during her third trimester. She was a full-blooded Terran that carried her twins to term. In Bryce's early life, Amy was his anchor. His beautiful, sweet, and caring mother. When he grew a little older and found that she wasn't his biological mother, it was met with disbelief and anger. Later, when it was revealed that his father possibly manipulated things (though never wholly proven), it further solidified Bryce's views of him; complete disdain.

His biological mother, who donated her eggs for altruistic reasons decades ago before entering medical school. The intent was to provide an option for Human and El-Aurian couples specifically, those who were having challenges conceiving. However, she could not foresee a "clinical error" that would produce Bryce and Elyia. She currently has her own medical practice but previously served as a Lieutenant Commander and First Officer on the [[USS Vigilant-A]].

Gregarious, vibrant, and witty, Elyia is Bryce's compass and lifeline. She's an accomplished psychiatrist and social psychologist. She was once married and has a young child, a six-year-old son named Rory (who currently lives in Kentucky, USA). While Bryce broods, Elyia brings it out in the open and gets over it. She helped to pull him out of the dark abyss that was their teenage years and the Calesian Lunar Colony disaster (and probably others, but we haven't gone there quite yet).

* '''Former Fiancé:''' Cer Voya, an unjoined [[Trill]], with black hair and cerulean-colored eyes. A well-respected cardiologist. The pair's tender and loving relationship dissolved shortly after Bry's return from the Calesian Lunar Colony disaster. While his fiancé tried adamantly to be supportive, Bry wasn't in a good place to receive it. Things changed, and they drifted apart.

* '''Former Fling:''' Gexena, a Betazoid nurse. Dark eyes, dark hair. The relationship between the doctor and his nurse was a secret for some time and started during his somewhat downward spiral after the lunar disaster, but after some soul-searching, he broke it off. It was more of a physical thing than one that manifested out of real feelings, and he felt terrible about it. She was more in love with him than he was with her, and he felt she deserved better.

* '''[[Meidra Sirin]]''': A former fellow medical officer and hybrid El-Aurian, the two seemed to find themselves in the beginnings of a friendship naturally. They compiled information for a scientific database, a resource intended to be utilized for future missions. They also explored the flora and fauna of [[Tyrellian_system|Palanon]] together, sketching out details and recording their observations for prosperity.

* '''[[Tahna Meru]]''': He first met Meru on deck eight when he was called to join a search and rescue party; the deck was severely compromised, riddled with hull breaches. It was his first mission ([[Shadows of the Rift (Gorkon)|Shadows of the Rift]]), and, from there, he has continued to admire her quiet strength and determination. Having learned that he lost all personal artifacts because of the explosion on deck eight, she gave him a housewarming gift in anticipation of his newly rebuilt quarters: an aloe vera plant, which he named Vera Rubin. They are currently rediscovering their friendship after he was sent away for a particularly challenging hospitalization and personal, isolated journey post-Rogue World.

* '''[[Cory Stoyer]]''': The camping trip on Palanon was Bryce's first interaction with the helmsman, but throughout the trip, he found him to be friendly and an excellent poker player.  

* '''[[Tali Namura]]''': Tali was the first person he shared bits of his past with (the heavier stuff - secondary trauma's latest effects), which was a bit of a milestone and a huge step but one he felt was necessary to build the foundations of trust and understanding with the Acting CMO. He also felt supported under her tutelage, having sought out her guidance and expertise (and finding a sense of peace with his decisions in the aftermath of the[[Shadows of the Rift (Gorkon)| Shadows of the Rift]] mission) while caring for [[Tzim-Shah]]. He's heard the buzz along the medbay grapevine, the whispers and tall tales of med techs, that she has a macabre affinity for bone and organ collection. He has mostly ignored the idle chattering, having found her to be "quite lovely."

* '''[[Loxley]]''': A fellow physician that Bryce respects considers a friend and enjoys his company. He has called him "the man, the myth, the legend." The half-Vulcan also saved his life on the Rogue World. It is a debt that Bryce feels small in his ability to repay. They are both human hybrids with very human upbringings.  

* '''[[Quinn Reynolds]]''': He first met his commanding officer by accident in the Brew Continuum after a day spent performing surgeries. The chance meeting led to coffee and an impromptu chat. Despite the differences in their rank, he felt at ease in her presence, attributing their similar ages and depth of life experiences as a connecting point. He felt the start of a good working relationship and, quite possibly, a friendship.

*'''[[Alieth]]''': These two met briefly, competing in passing for access to the operating theater at the end of a mission. Later, when she would arrive for post-mission care and an annual physical, their conversation turned towards that encounter. It was awkward at first, but, despite it, he has found an appreciation for Alieth not only professionally but perhaps as a friend as well.  

* '''[[Tzim-Shah]]''': These two didn't get off on the right foot. Tzim lost a limb during a mission, and the doctor provided post-amputation care, but the two were at odds from the start. Slowly, through the course of treatment, respect and trust has been built and an understanding. Bryce might not outwardly admit it, but he is fond of the Tellarite and feels bad about the hand the man was dealt. They are working with Lieutenant Commander [[Erin Reynolds]] regarding a prosthetic.  

Bryce was born to Paul Quinn and his wife Amy, an elementary school teacher, in San Francisco, California. His mother wanted a stable upbringing for him and his twin sister, Elie, so they stayed Earthbound while his father traveled the stars on his Sovereign-class vessel, the ''USS Poseidon.'' The family was reunited during times of shore leave, interstellar calls, and an occasional visit to the ship, but the distance (and other things) strained his parent’s marriage. Eventually, they divorced (the twins were three at the time). His father’s presence at that point was perceived as obligatory at best, and when he later "retired" from Starfleet, his presence in his children’s lives remained minimal. Duty before family, even when he was no longer active. It’s a bit of a sore topic for Bryce, one that he would not bring up in casual conversation.

His views of his father were made even cloudier when he learned that his biological mother was Aribelle Tagren, an El-Aurian/Human hybrid physician and decorated Starfleet officer. There’s an even deeper history there that left Bryce confused and conflicted. On some level, he felt betrayed by a supposed excellent officer, a man, a father who continually let him down.

However, Bryce’s personality type didn't allow him to contemplate on matters for too long (or, was it he needed to find purpose to occupy space in his head?). Regardless, he wanted to push forward and find ways to bring some good into the universe and not focus on the bad.

That is the drive that compelled him to pursue medicine. It was always something that clicked for him, and biology seemed to come naturally. He completed his undergraduate studies before attending medical school and then completed his internship and residency.

It was during his career as a doctor that an event forever changed Bryce’s course. A bit jaded with Starfleet (because of his father and seeing how it all ripped through families), the young El-Aurian was committed and content with his civilian medical studies. However, when a Lunar colony on the outskirts of the quadrant suffered a great calamity that resulted in thousands of injuries and casualties in the hundreds, Starfleet called upon civilian medical volunteers to assist. It was called the Calesian Lunar Colony disaster. Bryce was one of these volunteers, and it was during this time something resonated within him, profoundly affecting him.

Bryce floated between people after that, against the professional medical advice he was given. He took time off practicing medicine to focus on himself, to heal, immersing in nature and finding himself sliding still.

The decision to join Starfleet came about a year after his experiences. It seemed to manifest out of nowhere, but when the thought occurred to him, Bryce was angry at himself for taking so long to get there. It effectively dispelled those images that plagued him: the idea of helping more, giving his everything to give the best possible chance for better outcomes for others. He would be in a better position never to be sent away again.  

There were so many individuals that needed help out there, and he was determined to help where he could. And Starfleet, for whatever complicated his views were, embraced him. And, he embraced them back.  

*'''[[Rogue World (Gorkon)| Rogue World]]''' (239908.18 to 239910.01-239912): When the Rogue World appeared, Bryce joined the First Officer's (Lieutenant Commander [[Samira Neathler]]) away party on the ''USS Kahnrah'' to investigate the signs of civilization detected on the world's surface. While there, he experienced time sickness and fell from action due to his exposure to chronitons. He chose to sit it out, a decision Neathler supported, and was later carried back to the runabout by [[Loxley]].  

**'''Medical Leave''' (239910.01-239912)''':''' Upon the ''USS Kahnrah's'' return to the ''Gorkon'', Bryce was transported to an emergency medical vessel (one that emerged to provide medical relief efforts to the Tyrellian system) for inpatient treatment. This included exposure to an anti-chroniton modulated field, anti-chroniton injections, labs, physiotherapy, telomere therapy, and counseling/therapy.  

*'''[[Shadows of the Rift (Gorkon)| Shadows of the Rift]]''' (239901.27 to 239904.22): Bryce plunged into action during the middle of [[Shadows_of_the_Rift_(Gorkon)#Act_Two:_Kill_of_the_Night|Act II]] (239903.07), redirected from sickbay towards search and rescue efforts on deck 8 after an explosion compromised its hull. The party that he joined consisted of Lieutenant Commander [[Jona ch'Ranni]], Lieutenant [[Lephi]], and Lieutenant JG [[Tahna Meru]]; Lieutenant Commander [[Kero Rix]] later assumed the party's lead during the middle of Act III. The deck was riddled with punctures to the hull (weakening containment fields and EVA suits were their only means of safety), leaving the rescue team slightly on edge as they worked against the clock to find any survivors in the explosion's aftermath and fight the rift's terrible, personalized nightmares. They were able to successfully rescue Lieutenant JG [[Vorin]], Lieutenant [[Valesha Sienelis]] (who was in the throes of labor), and Ensign [[Tzim-Shah]] (who lost an arm during the ordeal), but there were also casualties. The incident and the tough decisions around when to press on for the sake of other survivors or to spend the critical time and resources sorting through debris to search for officers that may already be dead made the seasoned doctor yet fresh Ensign think back to [https://groups.google.com/g/sb118-gorkon/c/V49FWksUItM/m/CjM3OQseCQAJ events on the lunar colony]. While his emergency medical training kicked in and he exuded, for the most part, a calm and leveled approach, he would later spend the following leave thinking back on his history, how it influenced his decisions, and how that translated to his present state.  

***'''Partying Like a Physician''': The medical crew (him, along with [[Loxley]], [[Meidra Sirin]], and [[Tali Namura]]), took advantage of an opportunity to unwind on [[Tyrellian_system|Iana Station]], sharing drinks and laughs over their origins and funny medical stories. The evening, however, started inauspiciously with an unexpected and unwanted surprise: a blast from the past, former flame, the golden-dressed Gexena. Mystified as to how or why she was there (that cruel, ''cruel'' universe), [https://groups.google.com/g/sb118-gorkon/c/BoeDmbYIIxQ/m/O7XBRdLVAQAJ Bryce and Gexena have a heated exchange] out of earshot from his colleagues, to which he later descended into a bout of drinking that led to him ultimately [https://groups.google.com/g/sb118-gorkon/c/b-xhgIscIoQ/m/amZ0Z8MdAQAJ disappearing once they reached the Eternal Party] (Daliius, Eternal Decks). He [https://groups.google.com/g/sb118-gorkon/c/jhF5M89dnUg/m/LCs1-htWAQAJ awoke the following day on the ship], a jumble of memories only partially telling the story of [https://groups.google.com/g/sb118-gorkon/c/bPgR1LJtf9M/m/JLlLFjrzAAAJ what happened to him]. Tali would later check in on him, leading to an amusing scene of him cleaning up his temporary quarters and leading into a [https://groups.google.com/g/sb118-gorkon/c/fzQXmBnZYTI/m/8T-3KZmgAQAJ deeper conversation about his past.]

***'''A Very Human El-Aurian''': A [https://groups.google.com/g/sb118-gorkon/c/Ol81LSDC5rc/m/FUOq_ZA1BAAJ call from his grandmother] propelled him on a quest to discover more about his El-Aurian origins and the meaning of "Af-Kelt." While he knew it would be easy to ask her more, he also knew that she would not be so forthcoming; her cryptic vagueness catalyzed his discovery. He contemplated his existence, his [https://groups.google.com/g/sb118-gorkon/c/tdd9VGBeLFs/m/zntNnCulDQAJ humanness and alienness during the awards and promotions ceremony].

{{Citation|Unity Ribbon|239907.20|USS Gorkon|Awarded to an individual who supports and champions the morale and emotional health, and well-being of a starship crew.}}

* '''Artist and Scientist''': His mother used to drag him to art events when he was a small child, and he participated in many murals that are currently on display across the galaxy. He initially took science classes to understand anatomy and forms in nature better and to develop his art further. Through those classes, he discovered he had a natural affinity for biology. He has used his art to communicate complicated medical scenarios with patients and their families, demystifying a confusing and scary diagnosis, stripping away heavy medical-laden terminology, and building a bridge between doctor and patient. This has produced trust and inspired greater patient compliance resulting in better outcomes.