May 2020
Midnight Writers
Table of Contents
Cover: “Bitter End,” an illustratiton by DIO This Page: Table Of Contents Page 3:
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• Lofi Girl wonders what to do after the strange end of her senior year • The Cold Hearted Queen asks about what Dite would do in a specific situation
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Ask Aphro & Dite
The Hues of Blue
• Blue looks back on her first year as MNW president
Monthly Otaku Column
• Aya talks about her experience in MNW and this month’s manga
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“From The Darkness,” a story by Alex Choi “Spring,” a photograph by The Calico Cat “An Art Project,” a poem by S.B.
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“The Competition Part 7: The Winner,” a story by The Midnight Raven “Beauty In Bloom,” a photograph by The Calico Cat
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“The Competition Part 7: The Winner,” continued “Colorful,” a photograph by The Calico Cat
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“The Competition Part 7: The Winner,” continued “Bumblebee,” a photograph by S.B.
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“The Competition,” continued “Cranberry Red,” a photograph by Blue Serendipity “The Forest,” a story by S.B.
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“Marine,” a manga by Aya Hatashima
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“Senior Interviews,” an interview by Blue Serendiptiy “Toby,” a photograph by The Wine Merchant “Senior Interviews,” continued “Embroidery,” a photograph by Bubbles
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“Senior Interview,” continued “Colorful Streets,” a photograph by Blue Serendipity
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“Senior Interview,” continued “Birdie,” a photograph by The Calico Cat
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“Dark Rivers,” an illustration by DIO “On The Run,” a story by The Cold Hearted Queen
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“The Four Seasons,” a story by Anonymous “Pretty And Purple,” a photograph by Bubbles
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“Floral Sun,” a photograph by Calliope “Middle School Graduation,” a rant by Blue Serendipity
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“Flowering,” a poem by Luna “Apples,” a photograph by Bubbles “White And Green,” a photograph by The Calico Cat “To Start Again,” a poem by Verovyva “Quarantine Flowers,” a photograph by Calliope “Goodbye,” a poem by S.B.
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“Cyan Skies: The Council (2),” a story by Blue Serendipity “Rise Up,” a photograph by The Calico Cat
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“Marine,” continued “Marine,” continued
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“Marine,” continued 2
“Marine,” continued
“Cyan Skies: The Council (2),” continued “Graduation Girl,” an illustration by Cupid A Farewell
Ask Aphro & Dite
Dear Aphro, No one else is going to my college, and I never got to say goodbye. What now? Yours, Lofi Girl Dear Lofi Girl, I’m in the same boat. It sucks. Just know deep in your heart that the last moment with each person probably would have come anyways, and you might not have known it. To those you can, say goodbye. Tell everyone what they meant to you. I’m sure wherever you’re going, you won’t be lonely. While this is little comfort, dwelling on the place in your heart they used to reside will only make it seem more empty. Good luck. With love, Aphro Dear Dite, If you could suddenly speak German, what would you use this newfound power for? Yours, The Cold Hearted Queen Darling Cold Hearted Queen, I would speak german. I mean, what else is there to say? How come I have to respond to all these stupid questions? Well, I guess maybe I’d book a plane ticket to Germany. I’d eat some schnitzel, and then I’d leave because Germany sucks. I mean, what has Germany ever done for me? Finally, I’d yell at some strangers in german just to scare the,. Maybe go to a retail store and pretend I don’t speak English. German is an intimidating language. With love, Dite
The Hues of Blue
Hey Midnight Writers! It’s crazy how quickly everything changes. One day we’re having the first meeting of the year, munching on baked goods and going over the club, then another day we’re all stuck at home socially distancing. It’s been a strange first year as club president. I broke a couple club rules set in place by the previous leaders (whoops), changed a couple things, and made a few mistakes, but I think it’s been a pretty great first year. I hope you all have enjoyed MNW this year as well. You’ve all been such incredible club members as well. Everything that’s submitted is just so amazing and it makes me feel untalented. Things are going to be pretty weird next year since we’re probably still going to be socially distancing. We’ll figure out a way to continue magazines, although we might have to make a couple different adjustments. Hopefully we’ll actually be able to make merch and have our final meeting next year! The upcoming school year seems like it’s going to be confusing and stressful (college apps!) but I’m excited to figure things out and make things work. I hope to see you all next year, carpe noctem!
issuu.com/midnightwriters wchs.midnightwriters@gmail.com
Monthly Otaku Column
This year was surely… the most unpredictable year. However, blessings to seniors and all of the members! As my senior year is approaching, I realized how much I drew over the past 3 years with Midnight Writers and sometimes I almost cry with happiness thinking about how much I’ve grown since my very first manga, and how much I’ve enjoyed drawing in this magazine. This month’s manga is about mermaids! Scrolling through the Instagram timeline, I’ve always wanted to draw something about mermaids for Mermay. I thought of this story when I was brainstorming what we humans have that mermaids don’t, and I came up with flowers. Between mountains and oceans, I am an ocean person and it was a little hard to notice what things mermaids will be astonished about in the human world. If I were to become a mermaid, I would want to swim deep to the ocean floor and explore the old, sunken ships. Like last year and the year before, this month was a five page manga and this time, I especially paid close detail to the backgrounds and the story flow. This spring was very inspirational since quarantine created some extra time to explore beyond my small neighborhood. Until now, I never really paid attention to landscape and nature. Drawing breathtaking backgrounds will be my next year’s goal :) I hope everyone had a nice year with the Midnight Writers and I will see you next school year!
Special thanks to Sra. Steele, Blue Serendipity, Aya Hatashima, The Calico Cat, Calliope, DIO, The Midnight Raven, and S.B. 3
“Spring,” Photograph by The Calico Cat
From The Darkness By: Alex Choi
I glanced out my window. Dark shades of grey began to encompass the sky. A sense of dullness filled the air. The wind churned, and the trees swayed violently. The colors of my street were slowly drained and consumed by bleakness and somber. The birds that were chirping sweetly were nowhere to be seen. The sun had left us and only the clouds were to be seen. Soon, a drop came from the clouds and hit the dilapidated pavement with a thud. Then another and another and soon, the tears of the clouds started pouring onto the neighborhood. Everything went quiet, and nothing could be heard except the rain droplets crashing on my roof for a long time. Finally, the tears of the clouds had dried, and a ray of light burrowed through the midst of the clouds. Then, more rays of light appeared, and the wet pavement began to glisten and reflect the light back into the clouds. The sun returned and smiled at me with its roaring rays penetrating through the clouds and creating beams of light. The dullness of the neighborhood disappeared, and the neighborhood became illuminated with light. Streaks of light crept through my window. The colors of the streets were rejuvenated with life. The leaves and shrubs began to dance festively under the sun’s warmth. The brilliance of the sun showered the grass with shimmers, conjuring the land with light. The green leaves swayed and glimmered from the rays of the sun. The clouds were nowhere left to be seen. The birds had returned with their melodious tunes. Only the bright and lively neighborhood could be seen as I opened my window and embraced the beautiful outdoors. 4
An Art Project By S.B.
The summers sun reveals supplies Of motley color, origin. Strings and things, paper waste and kin. Trash of varying shape and size I work furiously in heat, Hearing happy folks shout and play, Their shapes won’t lead my mind astray— This project that I must complete Scotch tape sticky in my fingers, I reassemble some old scraps. Fixing an artwork long collapsed. While its memory still lingers. I’m working with a mess of thread Unrecognizable, I see Fabric unfamiliar to me. Formerly my soul, torn to shreds. I sow it slowly, make amends, What I mend so reminiscent, Of loss, a youthful grin misspent. My work endless, time I transcend. Spirits repaired are beautiful, They’re cloths woven out of light, Life stolen back, which I rewrite I’ve taped together my new soul.
The Competition Part 7: The Winner By The Midnight Raven Archer, 3 It had been a little over a month since I got the letter, and my days at “The Competition” were slowly dwindling. I woke up on the morning of the finale, my eyes adjusting to the light, and my heart heavy. Just a few nights before, Larkin had been sent home. Someone who deserved this win so greatly and yet was sent home before someone like me who didn’t even want to win. Before she had left, her eyes brimming with tears, Will and I had pulled her aside, telling her how deeply sorry we were and that if either of us won, and even if we didn’t, we would help her and her family. She had smiled through the tears and hugged us both, before she left the light of the room for the final time. Guilt had been eating away at me, all throughout the days, and now, now that we were so close, it only raged stronger. I slowly got up from my bed and began preparing myself for today. I pulled on the black suit that had been provided for me and adjusted a navy blue tie around my neck. On my way out the door, I glanced in the mirror. I ran my fingers through my black hair, trying to make it look less messy and tried to force myself to practice a smile. No matter what I did, it looked forced. I sighed and turned away from the glass and walked through the door. I trudged through the blank hallway containing the doors to ten contestant bedrooms, most empty now, and into the common room. Alina sat on one of the couches, her crimson dress fanned out and stark against the white material of the couch. Her long, raven hair was braided as always and she seemed to fidget nervously, only giving me a slight nod of recognition when I walked in. On the opposite side of the room, Will sat on a bar stool, lowering and raising a tea bag from his mug and staring down at its contents. He wore a suit of similar color to mine but he had a forest green bow tie
“Beauty In Bloom,” Photograph by The Calico Cat
around his kneck. He glanced up when he heard me walk in and he gave me a quick smile and motioned for me to sit on the stool next to him. My eyes moved between Will and Alina as I sat, the silence in the room pricking my ears. Just as I was scouring my mind for something to say, a 5 representative walked into the room and ushered the three of us to follow her. I expected to be lead into the same, bright room as usual, but instead, we were brought outside and to a row of sleek cars with blacked-out windows. Each car had limited seating so Will and I were placed in one car and Alina in another. “Where do you think we’re going?” Alina whispered to us before getting in the car. “No idea,” Will responded. Will, 4 We finally stopped in front of a towering building after nearly 40 minutes of driving. We were ushered through the doors of a building and walked for a moment before stopping in front of another large set of doors. The 5 representative looked at each of use before saying, “Welcome, to the finale,” and pulled open the doors. My eyes were hit with a bright light, not like that of the room where the challenges had taken place, but of the golden shine of the sun. I shielded my vision from it as I stepped forward, before dropping my hand and staring in awe at what lay before me. I stood at the outskirts of a towering amphitheater, one filled with thousands of spectators, some even holding up signs showing specific support for one of us. The surrounding crowd of people blurred before my eyes as the three of us walked towards the center of the amphitheater where three seats sat. The three of us took our seats in the order of our number, Alina, Archer, then me. The sound in the amphitheater was defining, cheers and scattered conversation filled my ears before it all stopped as the voice filled the space. “Welcome everyone to the finale. These three contestants have proven themself throughout the past month through challenges, determination, and acts of character. Today, one of them will be crowned our Winner and they will be brought to Fiveness. The three contestants here today are…” The voice paused. “Alina, a 1.” The audience burst into cheers and Alina smiled and waved at the crowd. “Archer, a 3.” The voice continued. Once again, cheers filled the amphitheater, and Archer grinned, slightly embarrassed. “And lastly, Will, a 4.” When the sounds rang again, I felt my heart swell a bit. I lifted my hand and waved at the audience and as I did, my eyes caught on to my father’s. He sat in a separate area from the rest of the crowd, in addition to a few other people. This must be the family box, I thought. As my glance met his, he smiled and his eyes shone. “Before we announce our Winner, we will now be able to watch some highlight moments of these contestants 5
throughout “The Competition.” Please look to the screens now.” Everyone turned to the multiple screens hanging throughout the amphitheater as they began to play. Flashes of the labyrinth, the sinking ship, the speeches and more moved across the screens. Then, they showed the crash. The audience grew a little quiet as Archer and my crafts collided. I held my breath as I watched Archer jump out onto the ground and rush towards me, watched him wait with me. I glanced over at him and saw that his eyes were glued to the floor. I smiled to myself and turned my attention back to the screen as I heard Alina whisper, “I just want to say that whoever wins deserves it so much and I would be so happy for either of you if you won.” Archer and I turned to face her and I reached out and squeezed her hand softly. “And the same for you,” I replied. After a little while more, the screens grew black and the voice rang out in the amphitheater once again. “It is now time to declare the Winner and bring that person to Fiveness. Alina, Archer, and Will, please stand.” The three of us stood and I grasped Archer’s hand in mine, and he took Alina’s. I saw Alina squeeze her eyes shut, Archer pinned his towards the sky, but I simply looked towards the two of them. Alina and her braids rustling with the wind, and Archer with his eyes sparkling with golden sunlight. “The winner of “The Competition” and the one who will be brought to Fiveness is…” My breath caught as the voice paused. This was it, the moment we had been waiting for, working for.
title, being a 5, meant nothing if it meant a life filled with silence. After the finale ended, we were driven back to our housing so we could pack and move on from “The Competition.” Archer and I said our goodbyes to Alina, suitcases in hand, and headed out the door to go get a cup of coffee together. But as we walked, I realized that I had forgotten to leave my room key on the common room table as instructed. I quickly told Archer, assured him that I would be right back, and headed back towards my room. I opened the door and swiftly grabbed the key from my nightstand, the barren room a strange sight to see. As I walked down the hallways, now for what truly was the last time, I heard voices. Ones seeming to be coming from Alina’s room. If she was still here, I might as well tell her one last congratulations, I thought and stepped towards the door. Just as I reached for the knob, I paused as I began to hear the conversation coming from the other side of the door. “-Never expected it to be that easy,” Alina said, her voice tinged with humor. “Well, you played the role well.” Responded a voice that could only belong to one. The voice, the 5, that lead “The Competition.” “But I never could’ve done it without your help, thank you for that.” “Of course, we 5’s have to stick together. We can’t let in
Alina, 1 My heartbeat within my chest. The silence in the amphitheater seemed louder than any words. Archer, 3 I gazed up at the sky, watched the clouds move through the sea of blue, waiting for the name to be called out. Will, 4 And then, it was announced. “Alina. A 1, brought from the bottom to rise to the great level of the 5’s.” I could finally breathe again. I broke out into a loud cheer and brought Alina into a quick hug before she walked forward, the first steps towards her new life. I caught eyes with my father once again and he smiled at me, his eyes filled with something. Pride. Deep within my thoughts, I knew that the shortness of breath, the worries, the anxiety, all of it, had not been from the worry that I would not win. In fact, it was the opposite. Something I had known all along but had pushed down for the sake of the process had always been in my head. The 6
“Colorful,” Photograph by The Calico Cat
“Bumblebee,” Photograph by S.B.
low me, “Come on, we have to get somewhere else. Something happened, I-... Just please, I’ll explain later, just come on.” With little protest, Archer grabbed his suitcase too and followed after me, rushing together down the sidewalk, the sun beating down on our shoulders. “The Competition” was done, but new challenges lay just around the corner. Epilogue Archer
It had been over a year since “The Competition” had ended. For nearly three months after its completion, Will and I worked tirelessly to reveal the truth. Anonymously leaking information on what had happened and reality about Alina and the 5’s. We couldn’t publicly release the truth ourselves, the 5’s knew too much about us already, but we needed to achieve justice for the people of our society somehow. Within a week of the first batch of released information, the people went in an uproar, protesting “The Competition,” Alina, the 5’s. But after a mix of time and some tearful speeches made by Alina, everything stopped. People forget and they fell back into the comfort of trusting those above them and staying unaware. Will and I just had to accept that. We spent three months working, but the only responses received were in the first few weeks, and we had no choice but to move forward One night, a month or two after we had to face this truth, any old 1 from off the streets.” I got a call from Will. It was pitch black outside and I had “But they don’t have to know that,” Alina said with a worried something happened, but when I picked up the sharp laugh. “I always wondered, how was I doing in the phone, Will’s voice sounded elated. He told me of a plan polls? The audience usually seems to like the poor, inhe had, not one concerning the 5’s, but for us and those we nocent 1’s and 2’s that just want a chance,” Followed by cared about. The next morning I was helping unload boxes another laugh. upon boxes of household items into Will’s house, but they “You didn’t do terribly,” The voice replied, “By the were not my own. Larkin, Lena, Lainey, Levi, and their audience’s vote you probably would’ve gotten 4th or 5th. mother sported bright smiles as Will and I helped them People really seemed to like Will and Larkin, I can’t seem settle into their new, and much more spacious house. to understand why. In fact, Larkin actually got first for Unfortunately, only a few weeks after “The Competition” the speech challenge, but it was better to kick her off then had ended, Will’s father had passed. Will’s grief had been rather than now.” immense and he had come stayed with my family and I, “So it would’ve been Will today if we actually followed he simply couldn’t bear being in the silence of that house. the ridiculous wants of the people? He doesn’t even seem Now, almost 5 months since his passing, Will had decided to want to be a 5!” Alina said with a scoff. “And who wouldn’t want to be a 5 like us?” The sound of to give this house that had always been too big for him and his father, to a family that deserved it more than anyone glasses clinking together followed. “You should only have else. And so, once Larkin’s family had moved in, Will and I to put on the 1 act for a bit longer, a few interviews here and there but after, you can go back to what you’ve always packed our own boxes and drove off, the car windows open and the air rushing past us, as we finally allowed ourselves been. A 5.” I scrambled back from the door as quietly as I could, my heartbeat blocking out any other sound. I had to to move forward. find Archer, I had to tell him the truth. Alina was a 5, Alina Will was always a 5, it echoed in my head over and over again. I raced out into the sunlight and saw Archer leaning With my house now given to Larkin and her family, against a railing with our suitcases sitting next to him. I Archer and I decided to move out into the countryside, dashed over, picked up my suitcase and urged him to fol-
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far from the bustle of the city and the memories of “The Competition.” We purchased a small brick cottage, one surrounded by a sea of green grass, towering trees and sunlight pouring down on us. We hadn’t given up yet, on revealing the truth, but we needed time. The people needed time. Archer and I, we were just two people, and even with the help of Larkin, and even Ezra and Thea, we couldn’t win against the 5’s. To succeed would be to take down the entire structure of what people and our society knew and it was more complex than what it seemed to be. Because when it came down to it, we were just a few people versus everything and everyone else. On especially starry nights, Archer and I would stand outside in the yard, leaning against the wooden fence and staring up at the sky, as we once did on the balcony, at the start of “The Competition,” so long ago. And when we did, we were simply Archer and Will, as we gazed up at the inky black of the night and the light of the stars peeking through. We had been taught for so long that our numbers were always to be put first, but out here, in those moments, we were not a 3 and a 4, we were Archer and Will. We were not defined by our numbers.
The Forest By S.B.
In Eterna forest, the rain season came in intermittent waves, leaving a shining gloss over the mossy rocks and trees. The late-day sun trickled through the treetops in droplets and the ground sparkled ethereally in its gentle glitter. One rock was so covered in moss that it no longer seemed a part of the earth, but rather a shaggy creature which had come to rest there. The sky seemed to glow green at first glance but the leaves rustled and shook so each one could be seen. A young boy, no more than twelve, clambered across the difficult terrain in a haste. He carried a colorful backpack from school which contained a motley assortment of notebooks and binders. His wooden brown hair was carelessly tossed across his youthful face, nearly covering a set of bright green eyes. The boy crossed a small creek methodically. By jumping precisely from rock to rock, he managed to avoid any contact with the flowing water. He marched on through overgrown undergrowth and at last, the forest opened up. A majestic river appeared in the clearing, about the width of 8
“Cranberry Red,” Photograph by Blue Serendipity
a football field. There was a large tree near the shore whose roots grew to leave room for a chamber beneath him. After stripping his coat and shoes, he placed all of his belongings underneath the tree. Across the river was a small island overgrown with trees and bushes, the perfect hideout.. He dipped his toes into the water and slowly plodded deeper until he was wading. His breath tremored as his body began to quake and shiver. He broke out into a swim and struggled courageously against the current until at last he was across. His island was small but private. The bushes grew thick enough to cover his entire body with just a few steps in. Sand had been tossed across the bushes in a windstorm and it was impossible not to get sand all over oneself in crossing. As the boy proceeded to his hideout— an alcove no bigger than ten feet across— he noticed something strange. Something glistened white in the glade. It was a white— horse? But it was. . . gleaming? The creature lay horizontal, with its hooves under its chest. And then he saw its head: a horn. This was a unicorn!
“Marine,” Manga by Aya Hatashima (Read from Right to Left)
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Senior Interviews By Blue Serendipity
Hey everyone, it’s me, Blue. Here’s the traditional interview with seniors! First up we have someone who’s first pick for a pseudonym was: “We’re no strangers to love. You know the Rules. And so do I.” That’s too long though, so we’re going with her second pick, Rick Astley. Rick Astley’s interview was done digitally so a preface was added. To keep personality, I’ve decided to not edit the responses for capitalizations and gramatical corrections. Rick Astley: hey d a w g s (mirthless laughter) lemme preface this by saying this report is derived of my personal experience and individual students should be liable to their own decisions good luck at churchill lol its not like i have a file folder full of churchills teachers that i keep constant tabs on Blue: How would you describe Churchill in one word. Rick Astley: stuffy Blue: Rate your experience at Churchill on a scale of 10. Rick Astley: i would rate it a solid 4 Blue: What’s your best memory at Churchill? What’s your worst? Rick Astley: Best - i cant remember. probably some14
thing funny. or cool. i think i really liked it when it was the last few weeks before summer and everything is great and happy and it feels like nothing is real and youre not actually going to *school* anymore. Worst- i cant remember either. one of them was crying through a test lol Blue: Who’s your favorite teacher?
Blue: What were you looking forwards to senior year?
S.B.: Shut up...what did--
Rick Astley: graduating and getting the [redacted] out
Blue: (scoffs and mocks him) Shut uuup.
Blue: What are your plans after high school?
S.B.: (laughs) You know you’re doing a really good job at this interviewing thing, I just wanted to let you know.
Rick Astley: college Blue: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen?
Rick Astley: i dont have a single favorite, but i like southworth, lee, bopps, and stevens. theyre all really nice and know their stuff, and its (tho bopanna is the exception) relaxing being in their classes. notable runner ups are malo, leber, ms.arthur and [insert Chinese teacher in chinese] because i think theyre great at what they do.
Rick Astley: youre (probably) not sh*t but youll grow. just be conscientious, n willing to improvise, adapt and overcome + have fun bruvs
Blue: Which teacher is the most laid back?
(Recording Starts)
Rick Astley: achille. we stan a king. Blue: Which teacher is the hardest grader? Rick Astley: boppana.
And there we have it for our first interview. Next up, we have one of our Newficers, S.B.! This one was actually done in person so it’s a bit longer.
Blue: Alright I started recording. S.B.: What did [name] say? Blue: I started recording! We’re starting the interview!
Blue: You’re the one interrupting me. SB: (laughs) Blue: Alright, how would you describe Churchill in one word? SB: Hm, you know it’s not my fault my original interview didn’t work… Blue: Oh my god… (laughs) Steve! SB: I declare this interview to be void. Blue: (laughs) SB: Um… can I describe it in a sentence? Blue: No! SB: One word?
Blue: Which class would you recommend students to take and which to avoid? Rick Astley: depends on what they want for their future, and what they want out of a class. i cant recommend many classes that i would consider all encompassing and like a “Must” tbh. i can definitley vouch for the science and math at churchill to be pretty lit though “Toby,” Photograph by The Wine Merchant
“Embroidery,” Photograph by Bubbles
Churchill and what’s your worst? SB: Are we not going to like, have any discourse here? Blue: …well you can continue talking if you want then…
Blue: One word. That’s the question.
wealthy?
SB: (laughs) I mean, I think wealthy is pretty obvious. I SB: (Inaudible complaining) was going for the low hanging fruit with that one. Blue: (laughs) Oh my god, Blue: Alright ok, uumm… pick a word! (Silence)
SB: No no no, I w--
Blue: It’s been a whole minute of silence.
Blue: Moving on!
SB: What? Blue: It’s been a minute. SB: Wh-- do I have a time limit? Blue: No, it’s just… one word. SB: One word? That’s the hard part! The only one I could come up with was alright. Blue: (laughs) Alright? Ok, is that your word? SB: Let me think! SB: Underrated. Blue: Underrated. Why? SB: Because you know, like… you know maybe I’ll pick wealthy. Blue: (laughs) Why
SB: Wait wait wait! Blue: Next question! SB: No, I was going to say underrated because it’s actually a really nice school, we all get a really good education. And everyone’s like oh, it’s horrible, it’s a pressure cooker! Which it kinda is, but like… it’s ah… it’s what you make of it. It’s pretty good. Pretty neat. Blue: (laughs) Alright. Rate your experience at Churchill on a scale of 1 to 10. 10 being the best. SB: Oh really, I thought 1 was the best. Blue: Well, you know, we’re reversing it. SB: (laughs) Um… solid 7 or an 8. Blue: Alright, well um… what’s your best memory at
SB: Well, you can-- you’re not asking any follow up questions. This is a horrible interview. Blue: You’re the one not adding anything! SB: (laughs) What do you mean, I’m not the one adding anything? Ok I--
Blue: Yeah… SB: So like one of ‘em, I guess. Probably. But you just said the AP physics exam, so, yeah when my AP physics examiner wrote on the promethean board in sharpie, that was pretty epic. And we delayed the entire (laughs) examination by two hours. Blue: Ah, they’re probably not happy with you. Um… SB: It was the examiner’s fault! Blue: Well, you…! Didn’t you start like--
Blue: You’re the one who didn’t even want to do the interview right now!
SB: Yeah we did…
SB: (laughs) Shut up. Um… it’s a 7 or an 8, because, there’s a pretty good-- I mean actually I kinda already explained the things about Churchill… you know let’s just move on.
SB: Yeah maybe we did… (laughs) Yeah maybe we sent her out of the room to go get help, which she couldn’t find.
Blue: (laughs) What’s your best memory at Churchill and what’s your worst. (Silence) Blue: You’ve got the AP exam for physics… SB: (laughs) The first thing that came to mind, for best memory, was going to be my, like one of my coffee houses. Blue: Mhm, which one?
Blue: … talking and--
Blue: (laughs) Um, your worst memory? SB: Uhm... Blue: Your voice just got really sad all of the sudden. SB: I’m thinking! Blue: (laughs) SB: (under his breath) worst memory… maybe... (long silence) SB: (laughs) I guess when I got back my 50% on a geometry test.
SB: I wanted it to be my senior coffee house, but like… that’s not happening. Blue: Oh yikes.
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SB: That dropped me to a Z! Ok, that’s kinda a lame answer, but... Blue: I mean… some people said, walking into their first AP class. Or all of their AP classes. SB: Walking into my first AP class, then walking into my second, and then walking into the next four after that… (laughs) Blue: Well you’re the one that picked that many APs. SB: Yeah… that’s fair. They’re actually pretty fun, that was a good year. Blue: You can’t complain, ok? SB: Yeah I guess my worst memory would be losing my senior year. Blue: (pause) Alright, um… who’s your favorite teacher? SB: Mr. Allal and Mr. Nugent both come to mind. Mr. Allal because I had him for four years. And Mr. Nugent because… what a guy. Blue: (laughs) SB: First off, best fash-OKAY, the two-- those two teachers combined have the best fashion sense. Blue: They do!
Blue: Mr. Allal has the best like, formal stuff--
SB: I think that’s just the correct answer.
SB: (laughs)
Blue: Well yeah, cause everybody loves Ms. Perrett.
Blue: ...and Mr. Nugent has like the best shirts. SB: Mr. Nugent just has the colors. Blue: Mhm. And the patterns. SB: But just, AP Chem was… mentally challenging and fun, and jazz was just a passion. And then both teachers, I mean, just talk to anybody. Like I guess I’m not great at this, but just talk to anybody and you’ll see. Everybody loves these guys. They’re awesome. Mr. Allal was one of the boys.
Blue: Mostly. SB: Well I mean… she’s-she’s fine. Blue: (laughs) Hm. SB: I feel like it was mostly my... fault. For my interactions with her, so… but we didn’t get along. But that-that didn’t mean she wasn’t a good teacher.
SB: Yeah. I mean, she’s not actually grading that harsh, she just said none of us speak French, and she’s grading us on our French. And that’s not fair, you know? That’s like me grading-- or you grading me on my Chinese. Blue: (laughs) Oh, you’d get a very low grade. SB: (laughs) Blue: Um, what class would you recommend students to take and which to avoid?
Blue: You sure, really?
SB: Which… take AP Chem. Take jazz.
SB: Oh really?
Blue: Well some of--
Blue: (laughs)
Blue: (laughs)
SB: And Mr. Nugent, man, he had a following.
SB: Yeah... I’m pretty sure.
SB: Avoid all history classes.
Blue: Alright then, which teacher is the most laid back?
Blue: (laughs) Which teacher is the hardest grader?
Blue: You have to take at least one history class!
SB: That I’ve had?
SB: Take zero history classes!
SB: Um...
Blue: Uh huh!
Blue: World History?
Blue: (gets pulled into his chest) Ah!
SB: I guess Madame Umarji--
SB: Don’t graduate.
SB: (laughs) Ah? What teacher’s the most laid back…
Blue: (laughs) Oh my god.
Blue: Mhm. SB: Ms. Perrett.
SB: (laughs)
Blue: Yeah, definitely Ms. Perrett.
Blue: They really do.
SB: Yeah, that’s it.
SB: Of any in the school.
Blue: Really? That’s it?
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(Pause)
Blue: French teacher?
“Colorful Streets,” Photograph by Blue Serendipity
“Birdie,” Photograph by The Calico Cat
Blue: Don’t listen to your eighth grade teachers, they’re not high school teachers!
[name]’s responses?
SB: (laughs) Yeah. It was like you know I think you’re in a really strict-- he’s like, I promise you, you’re gonna really struggle if you take Honors Chem. Yeah got a HUNDRED percent in Honors Chem! Actually got a 99, I got one point off.
SB: (looks away and laughs) Shut up, why are [name]’s responses even up here? You’re a horrible interviewer.
Blue: Ok that’s close enough. Um… (accidentally skips a question) what are your plans after high school?
Blue: (gasp)
(Pause)
Blue: …wow.
SB: Don’t act all shocked.
SB: You’re offended because that was where we met.
Blue: I feel offend-- I’m acting offended cause I am offended!
Blue: Why are you thinking so hard about this?
Blue: Well yeah, but like… alright, fine then!
SB: Alright you’re allowed to be.
SB: No, but like, looking back on all the things that happened, I’d consider taking it...
Blue: (laughs) What did you say to avoid? Oh, history. What were you looking forward to senior year?
Blue: (sits up to turn and look at him) You’d consider taking it.
Blue: Ok, cool, I’m leaving.
SB: Oh yeah! Also, wait wait wait, also don’t-- take Honors Chem. If you… if you think Honors Chem is too difficult for you, then high school’s too difficult for you. Anyway, continue.
SB: Oh no no no! Don’t, don’t leave.
Blue: Everybody takes Chem.
Blue: (laughs and resumes cuddling) Um…
SB: No, but like, they told me in eighth grade that, um, Honors Chem was going to be too hard for me and I shouldn’t take it. And then my two As in AP Chem--
(Pause) Blue: Ok would you have not taken world history if you had the chance to? SB: No, I wouldn’t have even considered it.
SB: (laughs)
(Pause) Blue: Are you reading
SB: Going to Notre Dame? I mean, like I don’t know. Who knows what they’re going to do with their life? It’s better not to make plans. Just wing it, as you go along.
Blue: But you’re always giving advice. SB: Well… yeah. But I’ve learned now, I think. Blue: (skeptically) Um, you’re always giving advice. SB: Well I’m not going to stop giving advice cause I like doing it, but honestly I think it’s the best if you figure sh*t out on your own. Except for those obvious ones, like don’t, like, just, you should-- Ok, learn about stuff, but like, and learn about the future, and other people’s experiences, but right now, my general advice is not going to help you. So-Blue: (laughs) SB: ...don’t listen to anybody who thinks they know your life. (Recording Ends)
Blue: (laughs) That’s horrible advice. SB: (laughs) I know, but like, improv baby. Gotta learn how to improvise, most valuable skill in the world. Blue: Alright, well, what advice would you give to incoming freshmen? SB: Mmm, no advice. Blue: No advice at all? SB: Just, figure it out, on your own. 17
“Dark Rivers,” Illustration by DIO
On The Run
By The Cold Hearted Queen I face my foes late at night, when the world falls in a peaceful slumber. It’s when monsters such as Minotaurs, Chimeras, and more find openings within my busy schedule and launch their attacks. I have no sword, no sheild, no way to fight and no way to defend myself. So, I run. Running from the inevitable is, well, impossible. Night will continue to fall no matter what, and my demon will continue to chase me, no matter where I run. As I lay in bed, staring up at the handful of dimly glowing stars scattered across my ceiling, I wonder if Hercules or Perseus would help me slay the monsters they once defeated. Then, I hear soft thumping as something paced back and forth by the edge of my bed. Holding my breath, I turn my head to see what creature had be the first to arrive. The Nemean Lion. It’s dark mane shakes lightly as it stalks around me and I hear it’s slow, low breaths. I know very well that nothing could defeat it but itself. Pulling my blankets tighter around me, I squeeze my eyes shut and hoped that it would go away. A chill creeps up my arm and my eyes snap open. Slithering up my body are dozens of thin snakes. As they hiss, their forked tongues tickle my skin and they each bare two sharp fangs. I open my mouth to scream but nothing comes out. Medusa chuckles gleefully at my petrified expression 18
and begins whispering into my ear. “Keep running, child,” she hissed. “Cower before us.” The bed dips drastically as the Nemean Lion jumps up. It growls menacingly before placing a large paw on my chest and shifting its weight onto me. I gasp desperately for breath as I attempt to push its paw off of me. It roars angrily in my face and Medusa cackles. The stars on my ceiling gradually begin to lose their glow as they blur and fade from my vision. The sound of Medusa hissing in my ear and the crushing weight of the Nemean Lion slowly disappeared as my world began to fade away. But with every night comes another day, and the first rays of the morning sun stream through my windows. Air flooded my lungs as the Nemean Lion roared and darted to a shaded corner to avoid the approaching daylight. The moment light touched it’s golden fur, it began to sizzle and fade away. I watched as more and more of it began to fade away before nothing was left. Medusa screamed and writhered in agony as her snakes began turning into smoke. Her bony grey hands shriveled up and she suddenly toppled off the side of my bed. When I peered over the edge, she was gone. The sun bathed my room in golden light, it’s rays reaching every nook and cranny of my room to ensure any and every monster was gone. I let out a breath of relief and let my head hit the pillow again. One day, I would find a way to defeat them on my own. But until then, I’ll continue to run until daybreak.
The Four Seasons
“What about winter?” challenged Makyla. “Snowmen, snowball fights, hot chocolate... winter’s way better than spring or summer. All the good holidays are in winter.”
“It’s so hot,” complained a little girl as she hung upside down by her knees from a low-hanging tree branch. Her red hair was tied in two pigtails and the summer sun caused hundreds of freckles to appear all over her face and arms. Above her in a little tree house, was her friend Daniel. He laid on his back with his head sticking out of the tree house door.
“Thanksgiving and Halloween’s in the fall,” pointed out Daniel. “It’s also the prettiest season. All the leaves are different colors and it’s not as hot as summer, but not as cold as winter.”
By Anonymous
“There’s nothing to do,” he groaned. “I’m so bored.” “When are Makayla and Austin getting here?” asked the girl. “They said they were coming, but it’s been forever now!” “Is your mom going to let us use the sprinklers?” “No,” grumbled Daniel unhappily, “she said she didn’t want another muddy mess in the backyard like last time.” The two complained about the summer heat some more before the patio door slid open and a pair of twins walked out holding a box of popscicles.
“What? Winter’s the prettiest! Winter Wonderland?” said Makayla as if it was obvious. “Everything’s all dead in the winter,” said Rachel with a frown. “Summer means fun long vacation and no homework,” chimed Austin. “We can hang out together all day and stuff without having to worry about school too.” “True,” said Makayla reluctantly, “but winter’s still better.” “No, spring!” “Fall!
“Rachel, Daniel!” greeted Makayla. With an excited gasp, the two scrambled down from the tree and sprinted over to their friends. “We brought popscicles,” said Austin cheerfully. He ripped the top of the box open and they all argued over which one they wanted. Eventually they all settled down in the tree house to enjoy their icy treats. “So what’ve you guys been doing?” Makayla asked. “Complaining about summer,” said Rachel bitterly. “It’s the worst season. It’s so hot and there’s never anything to do.” “What?” Austin gasped, “it’s the best season!” “No way! It’s so hot I’m melting like my popscicle,” grumbled Daniel. “But no school!” argued Austin. “And we can go to the beach, or the pool!” “Spring is way better. That’s when all the flowers are in bloom and the birds come back,” huffed Rachel. Austin made a face; he didn’t like spring as much as summer. “Pretty And Purple,” Photograph by Bubbles 19
“Floral Sun,” Photograph by Calliope
would cheer, clap, and sing along with it. Our band teacher never tried to stop us so it became a thing that happened after every concert. To be honest, much of that day is a blur. It was pretty boring because all you did was sit in a chair and wait for you name to be called. Then there more talking, more awards, and more waiting. I don’t even remember what dress I wore. I do remember cringing at how awkward it was whenever one person got loud thunderous applause while the next got quieter claps (out of politeness). After what felt like forever, we were finally let out and brought to the cafeteria for the reception party.
Middle School Graduation By Blue Serendipity After talking to some other kids at Churchill about their middle school graduation (or lack of one), I began to appreciate mine much more. A few weeks beforehand, my band teacher asked me and a couple other kids to play music during the event. She warned us that we would only be able to practice the pieces together only a handful of times before graduation, and that we would have to play for about half an hour without stopping. There were only about fifteen of us and we were all super excited for this opportunity. And so, graduation preparations began. I don’t think any of us really understood how difficult it would be to play non-stop for 30 minutes. It’s a fun memory to think back on the group of us sitting together in the band room, light-headed and complaining about our respective instruments. It was one of the few times I felt sad about leaving. I would moving to another city right after graduation, and I was excited about starting a new chapter of my life. But I knew I would miss the joy I felt whenever my class would start playing Seven Nation Army after concerts. It would begin with one of the trombone players, then the trumpets, then the drums, and then everyone else. People who had already packed their instruments away 20
There was cake, balloons, and way too many people for one room. I went around meeting my friends’ parents and talking to classmates for the last time. Only roughly four people knew I would be moving away, so it made talking to the people that didn’t know feel much weirder. Some people asked for my social media or my number so they could stay in touch with me over the summer, but I had broken my phone a few days before so (regrettably) I wasn’t able to remain in contact with some people. As the reception came to an end, I took photos with friends and slowly began to realize I would be leaving all these people soon. Here were people I spent almost my entire life around, people I’ve been friends with since kindergarten, people that grew up in the same neighborhood as me, people that made my childhood such a wild ride. There would be no more badminton matches in the middle of the street, late night pizza and playground adventures, rolling down the halls in recyling bins, flower crowns during gym, or silent speedball + the floor is lava in science classrooms. I was leaving a place with a hundred thousand memories. Looking back now, three years after my middle school graduation, I can say I’ve changed a lot since then. I’ve matured more and made better friends. That graduation was a big turning point in my life, and it makes me wonder if I’ll undergo a similar change after my high school graduation. Will college change me the way high school has? Whatever happens, I’ll still have those hundred thousand memories, and as time goes on I’ll continue to make more.
“Apples,” Photograph by Bubbles
Flowering By Luna
Little flowers bloom, Colorful and delicate, Basking in the sun.
“White And Green,” Photograph by The Calico Cat
To Start Again By Verovyva
It’s another end We become ghosts, memories
A Goodbye From S.B. Farewell all. Recent evils will eventually leave Let me immortalize days & nights, in good and hard times. Without realizing, I then exited. Ripped, so icily. Lest life makes impossible safely seeing you off-- unified again: Let’s let such mysterious destinies unveil daylight: eventual sunrise. I love y’all. Farewell Midnight Writers, I’ll miss you all sm. Dudes, ily <3 Note: The poem spells out the message. “Quarantine Flowers,” Photograph by Calliope 21
Cyan Skies: The Council (2) By Blue Serendipity The room Arlo walked into was plain and small. There wasn’t any furniture except for a white circular table in the middle of the room with six chairs placed around it. Four of the chairs were occupied, and one of the occupants was Jasper. The man gave him a friendly grin when he entered. “Mr. Dunn, I’ve been looking forward to meeting you,” said a woman with short brown hair and round glasses. Valleé sat down besides her. “My name’s Shira Jameston, the head of this movement. Please, have a seat.” She gestured towards the seat directly across from her. Arlo slowly sat down in the chair and let his gaze sweep over each member of the council. “You’ve already met Dr. Valleé, our head of Science and Technology. This is Jasper Jones, he’s in charge of publicity.” “We met briefly earlier,” said Jasper, giving Arlo a nod. “Well, she’s Mandy Feng, head of Finance,” said Shira, gesturing to the woman sitting in between him and Jasper. She had long black hair and distinctly asian features. “And he’s Collin Miller, head of the Council Court.” 22
The man beside him
looked significantly older than the rest of the council members. Arlo guessed he must’ve been in his mid 30s. He had dirty blonde hair and a neatly trimmed beard. “Why am I here?” Arlo asked bluntly. “Valleé tells us you don’t remember anything from when you were a Burrey soldier, which is… unfortunate,” sighed Shira. He had a feeling she felt it was more unfortunate for her than it was for him. “Just get to the point.” “Mr. Dunn, you have a genetic mutation that not only causes you to become immune to the virus, but it causes you to heal much faster than the average person,” she paused to let Arlo process the information. It made sense in a way. Whenever he had gotten injured in the past he had healed much quicker than the others. “You require less time for rest and recovery meaning you could safely go without sleep for a few days if necessary. This makes you harder to kill and much more efficient than the average soldier.”
“I already agreed to join the Rebellion.” “Everyone here has a job, we’re not just going to let you live here,” said Shira frowning. “Unfortunately many people know you’re a wanted Burrey soldier so Jasper will have to figure out something to tell them.” “Your mutation’s going to be kept secret,” said Jasper reassuringly. “But I’ll have to come up with something to keep people from speculating too much.” “You’ll have two weeks to figure out what sector you would like to work in,” declared Shira. “What about a job outside
the Complex? Some of the other bases could use some extra hands,” suggested Mandy. “I’d like for him to stay in the Complex.” Shira then looked at Arlo pointedly. “I’d like to monitor your activity within the Rebellion for some time. After all, you were a Burrey soldier.” “You’ll have to rule out the Court sector from your list of options,” said Collin as politely as he could. “We only accept people who’ve had some previous experience in different bases for at least two years.” Arlo didn’t mind that. He had no interest in being a judge, lawyer, or the judiciary system in general.
“That’s why the govies are after me?” Arlo asked skeptically. “They’ve been trying to figure out a way to recreate your mutation in other soldiers,” said Shira nodding. “Which is why we cannot allow you to leave and become captured by Burrey soldiers.”
“Rise Up,” Photograph by The Calico Cat
upsetting the other scavengers. Arlo heard people yelling at each other and angry orders being shouted. Fred slowly pulled the door of the boxcar open by a sliver and peered out.
“Graduation Girl,” Illustration by Cupid
“Govie or rebel?” Vinnie asked warily. “Govie,” hissed Fred pulling the door shut. Everyone immediately went into action. Eddie and Sarah woke up June and Harley while Arlo and Fred looked for makeshift weapons. All they had were small knives and firewood. Really, he’d rather be back out in the snow avoiding govies and rebels by himself. But he did like not having to worry about food and having a bed to sleep on every night. “Valleé will also perform a few tests so we can understand your mutation better,” added Shira. There was a pause before she stood up. “I think that’s it for this meeting. Jasper will walk you back to the barracks. I do hope you don’t cause us any trouble.” Arlo nodded stiffly. The Rebellion felt like a prison in disguise. Frida, Jackie, and Vinnie stared at Arlo incredulously. Fred however, followed Arlo to the door of the boxcar expressionlessly. “You can’t be serious,” protested Jackie. “We can’t just leave them!” “They want to stay,” said
Arlo. “If they want to stay then they can stay.” “I’m not leaving if they’re not leaving,” said Frida, crossing her arms defiantly. “We’re not leaving if we’re not bringing them with us,” said Sarah. Arlo looked at all the angry, determined faces around him before looking at Fred for help. He looked just as helpless as Arlo was. “What’s going on?” asked Charlie groggily. Arlo inwardly groaned. Things had become much more complicated now that he had woken up. “Nothing, you should go back to sleep,” said Sarah gently. Charlie frowned and sat up. “It doesn’t seem like nothing.” There was a shout from outside the boxcar and they all tensed. Something was
“They’re not going to hurt us will they?” June asked fearfully. “They don’t usually bother us,” said Charlie. Arlo met Eddie’s eyes. “Do you think they know I’m here?” Arlo asked. Eddie lifted Harley up and Charlie carried June on his back. “We need to run,” said Eddie urgently. “And they’re coming with us.” “Fine, we just need to hurry,” said Arlo. They both knew they would argue about it later. That is, if they got away without being caught by the govies. “Ok, if the coast is clear, Vinnie leads and we all follow. Sarah, make sure you stick with him. Arlo and I will stay in the back in case govies come after us,” said Fred looking at each of them to make sure they understood. They all nodded
and Fred quietly pulled the door open ever so slightly. He took a few seconds to survey the activity outside before opening the door more. “Go!” Vinnie darted out of the boxcar, followed by Sarah and Arlo. He stood by the door while everyone else ran towards the forest. Govies were making their way through the area and going into all the boxcars. They were searching. Arlo had a pretty good feeling it was him they were searching for. He wondered if it was one of the other scavengers that had told them. Fred hit his back lightly, signaling for him to run. Turning around, he followed his friends into the woods. For a second Arlo wondered if following them was a mistake. After all, he was the only one they were after. If he let himself get captured, then they would no longer be on the run. They could stay at the scavenger camp with Charlie, June, and Harley. They might even survive. But Arlo knew the govies weren’t the only dangers out there. With their three new additions, Eddie, Sarah, and Fred wouldn’t be able to protect themselves without Arlo’s help. And so, Arlo ran after them and hoped they’d all be alright. He hoped that one day they’d all be able to enjoy the warmth of the sun while looking up at a cyan blue sky.
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A Final Farewell To Our Senior! S.B.: Steven Baranko
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