Start of duty evaluation is some of the older Starfleet Academy students’ horror theme of choice. William had no idea what to expect - he instinctively knew that stories must be grossly exaggerated, but what if there’s a shred of truth in them? What if his eagerness is mistaken for cockiness? His desire for knowledge for a vainglorious pursuit for recognition? How would that impact his career?

This is very unbecoming, William. Have some faith, he murmured to himself, Counselors are some of the Starfleet’s brightest minds. They’re so essential to every ship for a very good reason. You should trust him.

As he waited for the evaluation, he tried to calm his mind with quiet meditation, focusing on his breath, trying to control his thoughts and compose himself.