not afraid to work. By responding to our ad, we know you are willing to learn more and that you are looking for something you cannot find in your world. Some are ready for this after high school, but we feel another four years or so of college can’t hurt them any and generally increases their desire for something ‘other’.”
“What kind of classes will I be taking?”
“To start with, mostly introductory classes. I have a schedule here for you. Once you pick a world you would like to go to, your classes become much more specific. You will then learn the languages, customs, geography, plant life, animal life, economy, so forth and so on of that particular world. Some of these classes, like language, will be mandatory. Others, like learning musical instruments of that world, are optional. Everyone must pass a basic horsemanship class. Everyone must become proficient with at least one weapon. We train you to do many things; it would be a pity if you got yourself killed the minute you left. You will learn other basics as well. After learning and passing the minimum requirements, you can choose to go further in any subject. Some learn to master every weapon; some learn everything there is to know about healing; others are more concerned with diplomacy, languages, finances, trade, or taking care of animals. Those choices are yours. Generally, classes run for about four months and then switch. However, we are willing to work with students who move faster or slower.”
Lucy was beginning to feel overwhelmed.
“Here is a map to help you find your way around the school and get to your classes. You may master the doorway trick at some point in time and be able to open your bedroom door and enter your first hour class, but until then, I recommend you use the hallways. It is tiring to try to find where students end up if they make a mistake. Not to mention, the sense of urgency, because it doesn’t take a partially trained student long to find trouble.”
“Where do I go to get supplies?”
“Everything you need is on the map. I have a list here of the basic supplies you need. Where to get them is relatively self-explanatory. The books to purchase are in the bookstore.”
“How do I pay for these supplies?”
“We run a type of commune here, so to speak. Every student is allowed a basic supply allowance. You go to the store and get what you need. Thus said, every student works a minimum of two hours a week at the various locations. I have marked this on your schedule as well. Some students work in the laundry, some sharpen weapons, some work in the stables, some work in the kitchens, there are a large variety of jobs. We try to match a student to a job that is in some way akin to their general interests or abilities. Also, you may spend any free time at your job as well, as long is it does not interfere with your studies. For those hours, you earn tokens, which you can spend in any of the shops. That way, if you want a book not on your list you can work for it.”
“What will my job be?”
“On your résumé, you mentioned you worked in a pharmacy in your world?”
Lucy nodded.
“Our Apothecary has mentioned he needs some assistance. He needs someone who can pay attention to details, learn quickly, and be efficient. The details of your job are his to explain.”
Lucy nodded again. Though she was feeling overwhelmed, one important thought did manage to float to the surface of her consciousness.
“What about my family? Won’t they notice I’m missing? Should I send them a note? Will I see them again? I don’t want them to worry.”
“I understand your concerns,” replied Eric. “I wasn’t going to tell you this right away because I didn’t want it to influence your decision on whether or not to stay here. Time works differently here than it does in other worlds. Some worlds move much faster than here, others much slower. Your world is slower. It will be quite awhile before your parents even return