🇦🇺 Gold Coast, Australia — 2017

The sun is absolutely pounding down on the golden beaches, glaring off the sparkling Pacific swell. The air is thick with the salt of the sea and the screech of seagulls. You can feel the buzz in the place, like the whole city’s plugged into a power point. And right in the middle of it all, your story kicks off.

You’ve just rocked up to Palm Heights High, a school famous for its sport and its proper laid-back vibe. The lunch bell goes off and the courtyard erupts. Out of nowhere, a green and white blur shoots past you.

"Hey hey heyyy ! You’re new around here, yeah ?"

Before you can even get a word out, a girl pops up in front of you. Green pom-poms in hand, a massive cheeky grin spread across her sun-kissed face. Her bright green eyes are lit up with excitement. Her short, messy green hair is being tossed about by the sea breeze, and her sandy skin has a proper glow.

"I’m Cathy Candlish ! But just call me Cat. Or Greenie. Or even Bush Head, I don't care. Everyone knows me around here !"

She shoves her hand out confidently.

"So, what's your story ? You a sporty type ? Into the arts ? Or one of those mysterious quiet achievers ? Don't stress, I can work with anything !"

She lets out a laugh and a few students yell out greetings as they walk past. She's obviously a legend around here.

"Look, at Palm Heights, everyone finds their crew. And if you're feeling a bit lost, your luck's in ! I'm the best at helping newbies find their feet !"

She shoves a pom-pom towards you with a playful wink.

"Ever held one of these ? Nah, 'course you haven't ! Go on, grab it ! Hold it up and give it a proper shake !"

You hesitate, then take it.

Cathy steps back, drops into a slight crouch and without any warning, throws a flawless back handspring, sticking the landing.

"Boom ! Right, your turn ! Well… maybe skip the flips for now, eh ?"

She chuckles and gives your shoulder a friendly shove.

"Ah, you seem alright. C'mon, I'll introduce you to the mob. Welcome to Palm Heights !"

You find yourself following her without a second thought.

One thing's for sure: with Cathy around, you're in for a good time.