Once I arrived at the camp I was completely shocked. It was nothing near the way I had imagined it in the weeks after my going there was announced. The school itself looked like a medieval castle, the grounds around it full of green grass, giant trees with tree houses, gardens full of fruit vegetables and flowers, streams running under bridges, little ponds with little ducks here and there and finally the most magnificent lake I had ever seen. The late afternoon sun reflected beautifully in its surface, colourful birds basked in the sunlight on the rocks and- WAIT. WAS THAT A MERMAID!?

Even though my parents had already sort of told me what to expect, they only told me so much so as to not ruin the surprise. The whole place looked so much like a fairytale I had to pinch myself to make sure I wasn't dreaming. Add the fact that the more I paid attention to my surroundings, the more previously thought "mythical creatures" I saw. Mermaids swam around the lake, nymphs and dryads played in the trees and pegasi frolicked in the grass. The more I saw, the more excited I got.

Once I got inside and my parents, the principle and I talked about school rules, schedules and classes, we all went up to my bedroom that I shared with a girl named Oanez who was apparently a tree spirit. She had brown skin, green hair (I'm not kidding) and a charming personality.

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   At dinnertime, after my parents had left and I'd unpacked, Oanez and I walked down to dinner together. Once we sat down with full plates, we heard some other kids talking about the Initiation. "Whats that?" I asked, "You go camping out in the woods with only a backpack of supplies and the first three people you make eye contact with are your teammates for the rest of the year." replied the boy sitting across from me. He  had striking green eyes and hair as black as a raven.  I was going to ask more questions when the principle Mrs. Frobisher cleared her throat and everyone went quiet. "Good evening and welcome back to another year at Beacon Hills High school for the magically gifted!" she started. "To those of you who are returning for another year, welcome back as we are pleased to hare you indeed. And for those of you who are new and starting their first year, welcome to your new home! I hope you're all settled in and ready for the year ahead."

   "I'm sure by now you've all heard about the Initiation tomorrow and are very excited. The rules are the same as every year, but for those who don't know or need to be reminded, they are the following: While outdoors camping, you may have only what is provided in your bag. The magic folk outside have been reminded that you are on a mission and to stay out of your way, however that does not mean you may go where you please. The first three people you make eye contact with will be your team for the rest of the year, no 'buts', 'ands' or 'can-I-switch-please-es'. Finally and most importantly, don't hurt or yourself or others."

   That night before I fell asleep, all I could think about was the Initiation. I was so excited for the next day I could barely sleep.