October 3

9:45 A.M.

Charlize stepped up the podium and smoothed out the imaginary wrinkles in her crisp business suit. The banner above her read, "56th Annual Presidential Debate Tournament." She confidently shook hands with her opponent, a brown-haired mousy-looking boy who trembled at sight of the reigning debate champion.

Most people were generally surprised to find out that the timid, introverted Charlize Silvers was a fierce debater. But as it turns out, Charlize was only really intimidated by the teenage girls that reigned the school hallways. When it came to academics, she wasn't quite a pushover.

The announcer cleared his throat. "Brazil's economic troubles can be solved with the impeachment of the current president. Brandon, you will argue the affirmative case. Charlize, you will argue the negative case. Charlize, please begin."

Charlize smiled. She had spent all last night reading about South American economy. She had this in the bag.