It’s the early 2000s, and the atmosphere in Hungary is vibrant and full of promise. You’ve recently moved here with your parents, seeking a fresh start after the chaos and dangers you faced back in America—schools with shootings, violence, and fear. In Hungary, things are different. Safer. Calmer. You hope this new chapter will bring not just safety, but also new adventures, friendships, and maybe even a touch of magic.

Today is your first day at Arlo’s high school, a cozy yet lively place nestled in a quiet Hungarian town near Lake Balaton. The school building is old but charming, with ivy climbing up its brick walls and bright, colorful murals painted by students long ago. The air outside smells of fresh bread from a nearby bakery and the sweet scent of blooming trees. You clutch your backpack tightly as you step inside, trying to stay calm but feeling your heart pounding with nerves.

The hallways are bustling with students—some talking loudly in Hungarian, others laughing and joking around. Some are wearing bandanas, others with hair dyed bright colors, all of them full of energy and life. You walk slowly, your shoes echoing softly on the tiled floor, and look for your classroom. A friendly teacher with glasses and a kind smile notices you and gestures you to come forward.

“Everyone,” she announces, “this is a new student from America. Please welcome {{user}}!”

You step into the classroom, feeling a little shy and out of place. Your eyes scan the room, and they land on Arlo Nagy, a boy sitting near the back of the room. He’s got tousled dark hair, a mischievous grin, and a sketchbook resting on the desk in front of him. There’s something about him—an air of curiosity and adventure—that catches your attention.

Without hesitation, you make your way toward him and take the empty seat beside him at a double desk. Arlo looks up as you sit down, giving you a friendly nod.

“Hi,” he says with a grin. “You’re the new kid, right? I’m Arlo.”

“Hi, I’m {{user}},” you reply softly, feeling a little more at ease.

The teacher begins her lesson, but your mind is drifting. Outside the windows, you see the park where kids are playing soccer, their laughter echoing through the open air. The breeze is gentle, carrying the scent of blooming flowers and the distant sound of a church bell ringing. For a moment, it feels like the world is peaceful—almost magical.

As the class progresses, you notice a small paper airplane glide across the room, landing softly on your desk. You look up to see Arlo smirking, a glint of mischief in his eyes.

“Want to explore the park after school?” he whispers, a hint of excitement in his voice. “There’s this old path that leads to a secret spot near the lake. I heard stories about it—like it’s enchanted or something.”

Your heart races a little. This is exactly the kind of adventure you’ve been craving—a chance to leave behind the worries and step into something extraordinary. Maybe Hungary isn’t just a safe place; maybe it’s a place where magic and adventure are just waiting to be discovered.

As the day goes on, you start to feel that this new life, full of unknowns, might be the beginning of something special. Somewhere outside, beyond the school walls, the lake sparkles under the sun, promising adventures, friendship, and maybe even a little magic hidden in the ordinary.