Enger had made all the arrangements that Lord Duroc had ordered. Seja’s parents were already on a ship on their way to Oed. That had been a difficult conversation, to speak to the young girl’s parents from so far away. But being able to provide them immediate passage had felt good. Karina would have paid for the passage herself.

Now she was waiting outside the ICU while the nurse made sure Seja was awake. Then she followed the woman down the hall and took a seat in the chair beside the bed. “Hello, Seja. I am so glad you are going to be okay.”

The young woman looked surprised to see her. “Dr. Enger. I’m so sorry I missed class.”

Karina patted her hand gently. “You do not need to worry. You getting better is more important than you being in a chair in a classroom.” She smiled brightly. “I have good news. I have been trying to contact you. You have qualified to be the recipient of unique scholarship. You will be able to attend the University to become a teacher of whatever subject you wants. The scholarship comes with lodging and a housing allowance. You will be required to maintain a ranking within the top ten percent of your class, so you will have to work very hard.” Karina paused to give her a very serious stare, to make sure she could follow along. “Well over half of the previous awardees of the scholarship failed to maintain that and had the scholarship revoked. And due to the extenuating circumstances, the donor who handles the scholarship wants to ensure you has no distractions. Your parents will be moved to Oed V immediately and will be provided housing.” Seja started to utter some sort of protest or disbelief. “I know it is a lot to take in. And I know that you missed your call with your parents. They called me. I have told them you are well and recovering. They are already on a ship on their way here. Now, be at ease, regardless of your performance, that housing is guaranteed for the life of your family.”

Seja, strong fiercely determined Seja began to cry. Karina stood and hugged her gently. “You will accept this scholarship. And you will work hard to keep it. The donar is very particular about who they awards these to. Now I have a message for you from your patents.” Karina picked up the PaDD she had brought with her and pulled up the file and passed it over. She left the room to give Seja some privacy.

Enger, DoE