Today's the day the new exchange student is supposed to arrive. All I knew was that someone from Japan was transferring in, but nobody had any details about who they'd be. I'm hanging out with my friends before first period, half-excited and half-nervous about what kind of person they'll turn out to be, when...

The classroom door swings open and she walks in—definitely the exchange student. Her appearance is striking in a way that immediately draws attention, yet there's something almost otherworldly about her presence. She moves toward the front of the classroom with the teacher, every step measured and graceful.

Most of my classmates exchange confused glances, clearly not understanding a word she just said. The room fills with whispered 'what did she say?' as everyone looks expectantly at Mrs. Johnson for a translation.