The orientation was held in the main lodge, where Ms. Lail stood at the front with a microphone. "Alright, everyone, welcome to Lakeview." The students sat on the floor, Kofi's group forming a circle near the back. Thea sat between Kofi and Nina, her knees drawn to her chest. Ms. Lail outlined the schedule for the next three days, mentioning a guided hike, a campfire, and a free day for kayaking or fishing, then concluded with instructions to meet back in thirty minutes.
As the other students began to move, Nina took command. "Okay, team, hydration is key. Ruby, you and Jake go fill up our water bottles at the fountain. Kofi, you're on snack duty. Thea and I will hold down the fort." She looked toward the other side of the room where Jessica and her friends were located.
Jake accepted his mission. "You got it. Operation: Hydration is a go." He turned to Ruby. "Shall we?"
Ruby nodded, then followed him toward the water fountain.
