Earth, Vulcan Embassy, Stardate 77625.7

“It is agreeable to see you again, Sorek,” said Torvak. “I did not expect the Mercy to visit Earth so soon.”

“Nor did I, but the gravity of our last mission made it necessary,” said Sorek.

“The death entity computer. I read the official report. Is that why you’re here now?”

“Starfleet ordered all crew to attend a counseling session, so I came to see you.”

“Your respect is noted, but I have not served as a counselor for twelve years, six months, and three days. I have diplomatic duties now.”

“I understand, but you were there for me when my maternal grandfather died in the Dominion War.”

Torvak was silent for a few moments. “Very well. How may I help?”

“There were several times I… felt something.” Sorek was uncomfortable saying the words. “I did not experience the terrors the Betazoids did, nor was I incapacitated in any way. It seemed as though something was there, yet not there.”

Torvak’s face showed no expression, but Sorek knew his former counselor didn’t understand.

“I still see in my mind the horrible things the computer entity did to the people it captured and used,” said Sorek.

“What have you done to remedy this?” said Torvak.

“While we were traveling to Earth, I spent my off-duty time in quiet meditation.”

“Do you believe you are fit for duty?” said Torvak.

“I am.”

“I know this is generally not our way, but have you shared this with others that experienced this with you?”

Sorek raised an eyebrow. “Why would I do that?”

“Sorek, you are still young and I am not,” said Torvak. “I discovered that in times of healing, there are sometimes more efficient ways than our own. In sharing, you not only remove a burden from yourself, but you often help others as well.”

“I see.” Sorek didn’t expect that. “What should I do?”

“Is there someone with whom you have a relationship other than professional?”

“There is an Andorian female in security,” said Sorek. “She has come to me several times to discuss things. When we learned we would have leave time, she asked me to go snowboarding with her.”

“Snowboarding?”

“It is similar to skiing, but with only one board that is shorter and wider.”

“Did you accept?” said Torvak.

“I did not.”

“Why?”

“It would not be appropriate,” said Sorek.

“You’re on leave.”

Sorek didn’t know what to say.

“The Humans have an expression,” said Torvak. “It’s ‘blowing off steam’. Maybe not being Vulcan once in awhile is something you need to do. Maybe we all should.”

“I wouldn’t know how to begin,” said Sorek.

“There is so much more to living life to its fullest. If you’re unwilling to try things that are different or ‘outside the box’ as the Humans say, you’ll risk not achieving Kol-Ut-Shan.”

Sorek sat in his chair across from Torvak, deep in contemplation. “I never thought of it that way.”

“Our journey is long and lasts a lifetime. The path can lead in ways unforseen,” said Torvak.

“Indeed,” said Sorek. “It seems I must learn how to snowboard.”