In a conference room -- no wait, it just looks as though they've again taken the Mess and put it to another use. But instead of a fake-interrogation room, this time they've turned it into a conference room, complete with a semi-opaque Ikea conference table. Quantum offers the Vulcans some sustenance, saying, "Thanks to Subcommander T'Pol, our chef has learned to make some pretty decent plomeek soup." How would he know? Has he ever tried it? Dr. Ensign thanks him, but says they've come to speak to his doctor. "With your permission," he adds. Quantum invites him to have at it, and exhorts the Vulcans to let him know if they need anything. He and T'Pol start to leave, but Dr. Ensign requests that T'Pol remain. T'Pol and Phlox sit as Quantum leaves.

Dr. Ensign tells Phlox that they have discussed his request but are still hesitant to share their data on Pa'nar Syndrome. Smoothly Phlox informs them, "Subcommander T'Pol is not aware of my request, I'm curious why you asked her to stay." One of the Vulcan doctors questions the fact that Phlox is requesting info about a Vulcan syndrome without discussing it with his Vulcan Science Officer. Phlox points out that T'Pol is not a doctor. Dr. Ensign confirms that T'Pol knows what Pa'nar Syndrome is, and asks her to describe it. "You're physicians, why would you need me to define an illness?" T'Pol hedges. Dr. Ensign asks that she indulge them. "It is an incurable degradation of the synaptic pathways. It also affects the endocrine and immune systems," T'Pol says. Immune systems, hmm? You know, if I hadn't been aware of this PSA for months, I'd be playing Dodge Anvil. As it is, they're just piling themselves neatly in the corner I cordoned off for them. One of the doctors is impressed by her definition, and asks how the disease is transmitted. "Through a telepathic practice," T'Pol answers. Dr. Ensign wants to know what that practice is. "Mind-melds -- they cause a disruption of neuroelectric impulses in the mid-brain, which can lead to the early stages of the syndrome," T'Pol responds. One of the Vulcan doctors asks if she condones the act of mind-melding, and T'Pol stands up, saying, "I'd appreciate it if you'd tell me why you asked me here." Phlox seconds the motion, thinking their questions to T'Pol are inappropriate. Dr. Ensign tells T'Pol that Phlox wants info on the syndrome, and wants to know if she had anything to do with his request. Phlox points out that he was fairly explicit about why he wanted the information. The Vulcans obviously don't believe his story, and tell him that since he didn't tell them there was a Vulcan on his ship, they had to consider "other possible motives." Phlox asks what they are suggesting.