The Edge of Freedom #11"
By: Patia Zoei, Chief Counselor, [PC]

Stardate: 58204.15 0630

Counselor's office

Zoei settled into her office chair, tucking her right foot beneath her as she leaned closer to her desk.

"New reports," Zoei requested. The early morning had not yet worked its way out of her voice. To her ears, it sounded very young, more school age than grown woman. She cleared her throat and requested, "New reports", again. Much better, definitely more her usual self.

The first report displayed on her console. It appeared there had been several observations of child refugees having adjustment issues. The initial head count of those on board would need to be verified and a group gathering set up. Once the initial session was handled, it would be easier to sort out who would need individual counseling and who would do best in a small group setting.

"Computer, add to "To Do" list: Request log of child refugees on board."

Zoei reached for her glass of tea as the next report scrolled into view. As she quickly scanned the words, eyes darting rapidly left to right as she read, she felt a cold, hard knot forming in her stomach. Riaan had noted a concern with Ensign Dane. Past experience with the taciturn officer led her to believe if Riaan was concerned enough to make mention of Dane's behavior, there had to be a substantial episode that hadn't been revealed in the memo. Shaking her head, she added, "Computer, add to "To Do" list: Request meeting or clarification memo from Riaan regarding her concerns about Ensign Dane"

Zoei scanned the remainder of the reports. Nothing else of any great importance was contained in them. A quick review of her list, showed the children and the Ensign Dane situation appeared to be the top two concerns to be dealt with today.

"Computer, begin memo to Ensign Riaan:

Ensign Riaan, I have received your memo of 58204.14. I will be organizing some group therapy and individual sessions with the refugee children. Would it be possible to obtain a listing of all the children taken on board as refugees? If it is, I would greatly appreciate your assistance in compiling the list. Also, if you could elaborate as to the concern you mentioned with Doctor Dane, that would also be appreciated. If you prefer to address the situation regarding Ensign Dane in person, please let me know and we can arrange a time to meet. I appreciate your willingness to bring this to my attention. Counselor Zoei

"Computer, end memo, send to Ensign Riaan."

Zoei pinched the bridge of her nose between her thumb and forefinger. Squeezing her eyes tightly shut, she gave her head a minute shake. Opening her eyes widely and then allowing them to adjust to their normal state, Zoei pondered the concern with Ensign Dane. At the time she had released her to active duty, following her attack on the Kittyhawk, she had wondered if it had been too soon. Clinically, Ensign Dane had presented as someone in complete control of her faculties and with an inordinate ability to withstand external pressures. An error in releasing her too soon could be damaging to the entire crew. Reviewing her file, Zoei decided to wait to hear Riaan's report, but this time, she would not hesitate to restrict the doctor's shipboard duties.