“Hello.” Said a blonde-headed girl. She was likely another student as she was wearing the school’s uniform. She continued, “I’m Alice Hansen. I’m new here. This school I mean. But also this country. I’m from Denmark. Which I realize means I’m new to everything here.”

  She laughed showing her nervousness, “I’m sorry. You are? Did I say my name was Alice Hansen”

  “Oh! Umm… yes you did, and I’m Mary. Mary Bittir. I’m also new.” I introduced myself, “To this school, and also the city. But not the country.”

  “That makes sense. Most people here likely live here. I mean I live here too. Well, now I do. Live here. I didn’t before though.” She coughed and cleared her throat, “Sorry. We should head on inside.”

  “It’s locked,” I said as she reached for the handle and pulled it down. It made the clanking sound of a door not allowed to be opened.

  “Oh.” Was all Alice said as she smiled nervously. That was when I noticed it. A long object on her back tied under her backpack.

  I immediately asked, “Is that a sword?”

  Alice turned to face me and tried to hide the sword behind her, “What? No. I mean, yes. It is. A sword, but it’s not… that is to say…”

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  “It’s fine.” I cut her off, “I was just surprised. I mean, they let you have a sword.”

  “Well,” Alice seemed to be ashamed, “It’s kind of important that I keep it with me. Actually, that’s the reason why I go here now. Instead of my old school. It’s what makes me a demihuman.”

  She went quiet. Clearly thinking about the decisions she had made in her own life. I struggle to think of something to change the mood, “So… do you read any books, or comics?”

  Alice’s eyes widen, “Oh yes. Do you know the Snowstar series?”

  I did know it, “Yeah, I really liked it when I was little.”

  “When you were little?” Alice deflated, “Oh, okay.”

  “I mean, I still do.” I blurted out trying to save the conversation, “I just like other stuff too. Stuff in addition to Snowstar. I read all the books and everything.”

  “You read all thirty-two books?” Alice seemed renewed. I hadn’t. I only knew about twenty-four books in the series.

  “Umm… no. I guess I’m behind a bit.” Although I revealed I wasn’t up to date about the series Alice still kept her energy. We sat on the steps and started talking about the series and all its publishing. An hour went by. A few more nervous students showed up and made their own groups until a man arrived to unlock the door. He walked with a level of authority that marked him as in charge. Head high, arms behind him, and stride even, this man stepped to the front door and unlocked it with a click. After he turned and addressed the courtyard of nervous students.