Challenge #04733-L349: Sensory Overload Episode

They thought it was yet another knomira sitting and screaming not getting their way. But an observant individual sees they're covering their ears and back against a wall. And realize, this isn't a knomira, it's a person who's struggling due to the size and noise of the crowd. -- Lessons

"Stoppit, stoppit, stoppit, stoppit," the voice carried over the hubbub of the crowd. Given that it was a commercial concourse on a nexus station, it was a safe bet that this was yet another Knomira from Deregger space causing a scene. It was the loud, atonal hum that gave Officer Dreng pause.

Usually, Knomiras had an ear-splitting shriek before threatening to summon the constabulary. Or, if they were from certain Deregger areas, a platoon from their army.

"Clear a space, please, clear a space," Dreng began to wave away curious onlookers. "Let them have their air. Step away, step away." A covert signal on his comms ring sent for more Security to the area and, given the condition of the individual, a Medik. Just in case. "Move along, this is a foot traffic zone. Loiterers may be charged accordingly."

Nobody wanted to get a foot traffic ticket. Most of the crowds dispersed and the remainder actually had business in the immediate area.

The individual at the centre of the ruckus still had their hands over their ears and a pained expression on their face. They were showing every possible sign of stress before a person could break. If they were a Havenworlder, the signal would be for the ERT team to come and rescue. This was a Human. One of the more resilient cogniscent species in the universe.

Just because the species was resolute didn't mean that all who belonged to it were resolute. Dreng carefully moved so that the individual could see his hands, and signed, "Can you understand?"

They shook their head, still humming, as three more officers and a Medik arrived.

Dreng stepped back for the Medik, giving hir a briefing on the proceedings as best he could recall.

"Ah. I think I know a solution." Ze riffled in hir carry bag for one. It was a sort of headset with headphones and a screen that could cover the user's eyes. Ze offered it to the individual in crisis. "This should help. Put it on."

They snatched it. Cramming it onto their head. Five deep breaths, and they settled down. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry. I didn't know it was a bad day. I left mine at the hotel and I thought I'd be okay..."

Dreng offered his arm. "Would you like an escort back to your hotel room?"

"Please."

They would also get a visit from a station Therapist, just to make sure they would be doing better going forward.

[Photo by Oosman Exptal. on Unsplash]

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