Trying to Fit In "
By: Patia Zoei, Chief Counselor, [PC]
Matthew Mason, Prisoner, [RNPC]

Stardate: 58205.26 1700

==Counseling Section, USS Zion==

Mason sagged agasint the turbolfit as he and his security escorts arrived on deck 8. He had been ordered to report to the ships counselor for an eveluation. Mason did not mind visiting with her; she did, after all request that the captain not send him to Rura Penthe.

Mason and his gold shirted friends arrived outside the counselor's office. Mason flashe dthem a quich smile as he rang the door shime to Zoei's office.

As the peal of the bell echoed through the office, Zoei started from the report she was reviewing. A glance at her chronometer showed Mr. Mason was right on time. "Enter," she called, as she rose from her seat.

As Mason entered the guards took up positions next to the door, however, they remained outside the counselor's office.

"Hello counselor," said Mason, "How are you?"

"Just fine, Mr. Mason," a slight smile creased the corners of her eyes. "Have a seat, please," she gestured toward the sitting area. "Would you like something to drink?"

Mason pushed a red pillow out of the way as he sat down on the couch, "No thank you," he replied.

Briefly, she paused at the replicator. "Raspberry iced tea." As the glass materialized, she surveyed the gentleman in her office.

"So, you are a Betazoid," said Mason.

She nodded. "Yes, I was born on Earth, but my parents are both Betazid."

"I suppose I should be upset that you were reading my mind at the hearing," said Mason, "But I guess it was for the best that I told them about my family."

Patia shrugged slightly. "I would understand if you were. It is part of my responsibility to this ship and her crew to use my talents and abilities to protect them. It turned out well for you because you were truthful in how you represented yourself." She sank slowly into her seat and cradled her glass between her hands.

"Well, thank you just the same," said Mason.

"It was my pleasure. You are a part of our crew now. It is just as important to do what I can for you as it is for someone who has been on board since she launched." Patia sipped her tea. "How is it going for you, with the restrictions that are in place?"

Mason glanced to the door, "Oh, you mean Mutt and Jeff out there," he smiled, "I am sure we will be come the best of friends." Mason chuckled.

"It is good you have a positive attitude, at least," Zoei smiled slightly. "Outside of Mutt and Jeff, you said," she raised her eyebrows questionably, how are you adapting to life here?" She leaned back slightly and watched the man across from her. His body language conveyed an aura of self confidence, he appeared comfortable in his own skin and he was more relaxed than she would have expected him to be.

"It is much better here that it would be on Rura Penthe," he said with a Smile. "I am doing okay. So far so good."

"Are you having any issues, no matter how slight, with any of the existing crew?" she asked.

Mason shrugged, "I get a few odd stares, but for the most part people are more worried about the upcoming battle."

"That is probably the only positive about this engagement, it will help ease your transition into the crew. Do you have any questions or concerns about integrating with the crew?" Zoei asked. Her eyes narrowed almost imperceptibly as she watched him.

"Not at the moment," replied Mason, "I would imagine it will be easier for me to fit in once I no tlonger have Mutt and Jeff hanging out with me."

"Have you heard how long you will be escorted?" Zoei asked.

"Nope," said Mason with a shrug, "I imagine until I am trusted."

"Do you know what you need to do in order to gain their trust?" It was rare Zoei met with a gentleman as open as Mason. Usually there was more restraint, if not in deed than in emotion. She couldn't get a feel that he was hiding anything.

"It will just take some time I guess," said Mason, "People will just have to learn that I am not going to harm them or the ship."

"You are right, time will fix that. I will file my report with the captain and executive officer, which will help pave your way with them." Zoei commented.

"That is much appreciated counselor," said Mason.

"It is deserved, Mr. Mason, or I wouldn't do it." Zoei smiled slightly.

Mason stod up and shook the counselor's hand. "You have a good evening ma'am."

"You as well," Zoei crossed her arms over her chest as she watched him walk toward the door. There was a bit of a spring to his step she hadn't noticed earlier.

Mason stepped into the waiting area and paused for the security guards, "I guess we are done here," he said to them as they headed for the turbolift.