[ [ [This fourth story makes sense as a "standalone", but it's much more interesting if you click on the author's name and read this tale from the beginning.]]]

~~~

~~~

"Do you see them yet, Nandi?"

"Shh! I told you, when I see them I will let you know!"

On the other side of the podium, Tweeny spotted Recorder, ready with quill and book. He felt her gaze, found her hopping excitedly between Sheydra and Nandi, and winked at her. Boldly, she winked back.

They -- and all the rest of House Madrassa -- were waiting for the "fledglings", the new arrivals, who would begin their lives here in just a few more minutes. It would be the first time that Tweeny would meet girls her own age, and her anticipation refused to allow her to stand still.

"Are they there? Is the train here?"

"No, Tweeny. Settle down or I'll send you back to the dorms. You're drawing too much attention." Nandi glared suspiciously at the soldiers standing at the House entrance. The extra security this year was due to the War, which had begun not five months ago -- the rebellion hadn't reached this far into the Core, so far, but the House was taking no chances.

Tweeny had been Nandi's personal "bodyguard" now for a little over a year. So far she hadn't been asked to do any actual fighting; it was understood between the two girls that Tweeny was more of a go-fer, and a prize possession of Nandi's. On occasion Nandi would "show off" Tweeny to the other girls by making her do silly things, like bring her brunch in the middle of a class. The instructors paid no attention to her. She was a pet, but she was learning not to mind too much.

"Nandi? Sheydra? Have the girls come?"

Nandi turned to