The Danger ( PDFDrive.com )

The doctor explained that the brain controls the body by sending signals
along neural pathways. With the bends, the body is invaded by tiny bubbles of
nitrogen gas that block some of the pathways. “Your brain will attempt to
develop new ones,” he concluded. “In some patients, this is more difficult than
in others.”
“What do you mean?” Kaz asked anxiously. “She’ll walk again, right?”
“It is impossible to determine at this time,” the doctor replied. “It depends on
the individual and the degree of neurological damage.”
“But I’ve got cerebral palsy!” Star blurted. “I limp already!”
The doctor blinked. He hadn’t been on duty when Star had been treated.
“And you’re here on a dive internship?”
“She’s the best diver around!” Adriana put in. “I mean, she was — ” She fell
silent.
The doctor considered this information. “It may complicate matters,” he
admitted. “Then again, perhaps the same tenacity that made you a diver despite
the odds will help your recovery. But your diving career is at an end. You
understand this, yes?”
No more diving! Right now it didn’t seem like such a big deal, in view of
Captain Vanover’s death, and with her own future in doubt. But diving had
always been more than a hobby for Star Ling. Once in the water, she had no
handicap. Without her diving, she would be nothing more than the girl with the
limp.
Stop it! she ordered herself. Be happy. You’re alive! You could be dead like
the captain….
“And now,” said the doctor to the three visitors, “I think it is time to let your
friend get some rest.”
Shattered, Kaz, Dante, and Adriana headed for the door.
“We’ll be right outside,” promised Adriana. “Just call — ”
“Actually,” the doctor interrupted, “I believe Dr. Gallagher wants you back
at Poseidon.”
“That would be a first,” Kaz said bitterly.
In the fluorescent-lit corridor, Adriana let out a long breath. “Wow.”
“She’ll walk again,” Kaz vowed, convincing himself as much as the others.
“Star’s tough. I’ll bet she’s more upset about not being able to dive.”