Welcome and introductions

"Ladies, if I may have your attention!" Ms. Naylor's clear voice cuts through the trilling chatter in the room. "Settle down, this won't take long and then you will be free to enjoy the rest of the day."

The students subside and most of them look attentive, or at least make an attempt to pretend. You see a number of speculative glances cast your way, and at the other three men, and smile again at the effect male teachers on campus is having.

"Welcome to another year at Pink Rose Academy," the headmistress says. "As second year students, most of you are familiar with the routines of the school, but there have a few changes since last year so I'll ask you to pay close attention. I'd like to begin by introducing the faculty, many of whom will be familiar faces, but we have some new members this year."

She asks each teacher to stand as she introduces them by name and subject, saving the four men til last. "Mr. Sharp will be teaching History and Geography this year, and brings very impressive credentials to the job." He stands and smile around the room, many girls smiling back and a few heads bent together whispering as their eyes flicker at him.

"Mr. Carter, our biology teacher, returns to education after a short sabbatical, and we are very pleased to welcome him." Mason stands and nods before resuming his seat. You note that the interest in him is not much less than the interest in Darnell despite the fact he's old enough to be the father of any of these girls. Perhaps that's the attraction, you muse.

"Mr Watts, Coach Watts I should say, will be teaching physical education, coaching softball and helping with both the soccer and basketball teams. We are very lucky to have him join us." You stand with an easy smile and a languid wave receiving a smattering of applause and a few bursts of giggles.

"Finally, I'd like to welcome Dean Hawkfeather. The position of Dean of Students has been re-established, and his office is in the Mellon building. Dean Hawkfeather joins us after a career in the military, and brings a wealth of experience to his position." The Dean stands and nods, his eyes scanning the room as though looking for trouble, and you see many students showing considerable interest and some surprise at his appearance. Some of them were probably expecting a bronzed brave with feathers in his hair, you smile to yourself.

"As I mentioned at the start of the meeting, there have been several changes since last year," Ms. Naylor continues. "I'm going to call on Dean Hawkfeather to explain one of the most important ones." She nods at the Dean and takes a seat, as all eyes in the room turn to him.