It looked like everyone was here, so it was time for Susan to start orientation. "Welcome and welcome back, ladies! And gentleman, too." Susan always believed that if there was an elephant in the room, it was best to acknowledge it. "Yes, this year we have a boy in our midst." She made a look of mock horror, then continued. "I expect you to give Nero the same treatment as any girl. He's just as willing to be a hero as you." The blue-haired woman made a death glare at Lucy, who she'd overheard making disparaging comments about the boy. That wouldn't stand.

"Come along, everyone, classrooms are up first, then the library, cafeteria, and gym." Susan walked off, waiting for her students to follow her.


Carmen came along obediently, tapping Melissa on the shoulder. "Anything you can tell me about the school? The brochures were... well, a little lacking, to be honest."