[And that's what ultimately does it. Maya's cheeks blaze a bright pink, and for the first time, she finds herself glancing away from Claudine. It's only for a moment, only long enough for the fear of the woman not being there if she looked back to sink in. She tucks a stray strand of hair behind her ear -- still wet from her plunge into the pond, before clearing her throat.]

Three. Four with you. [It's a brief, almost pitiful attempt at saving face, which is exactly why she winks at Claudine.

Hobbling just a little so that they can stand side by side (and so Maya can wrap an arm around her waist), she points to the women.]

Janis Sarkisian, our extremely talented narrator whose abilities saved my life. Peregrine Wells, a survivalist who was able to patch me up after said attempt at saving my life. And Hester Weidman -- the assistant director of this place, and hopefully soon to be newest member of Class A, if I have my way.

[She did want to go to school to act, after all.

She waits a moment, before glancing motioning to Claudine with a free arm. Her expression is almost sly.]

And of course, this is Claudine Saijo. My biggest fan and greatest of rivals, please do not let her tell you otherwise.