The orderlies didn't do anything yet, but they hovered close to the patient. This was unfortunate. The nurse had truly been hoping not to take any more action than was necessary.

She stepped in between the three, facing the the young female patient. "We would prefer everyone take responsibility for themselves and walk away until they feel they can resolve their conflicts peacefully," she said firmly. "I trust you are all capable of doing this?"

The violence hadn't started up again--but she was ready with a syringe just in case something broke out.