A Life Less Ordinary

Leaving on A Jet Plane

            We made our way back over to the school's lounge so I could pick up my carry-on before heading over to the right gate. The guys were talking about their summers. Sean was starting to respond in clear English by this time. He'd even cracked a couple jokes making the guys laugh. I didn't get the jokes as I didn't know the people involved or the referenced events, but it was nice to hear the three of them enjoy themselves. I was pulling my violin case out of the locker when I heard a collective in-drawn breath. I turned to see what had provoked that kind of reaction. I thought maybe someone had come in while my head was in the locker but no it was just the four of us. I looked at Victor in confusion.

"They just found out what one of your instruments is. A friend of ours has been the top violinist for the last four years at least. He hasn't had any competition, like none. He plays the only violin in the orchestra. I think anyone else that plays is scared to audition against him. I think you will do him good. I can't wait." Victor's face was alight with glee and the other two were grinning. I wasn't sure what I was getting myself into.

"If it becomes a problem I can switch to flute. I won't even try to go against you for piano." I grinned at Victor, teasing him a little. "That reminds me I need to pick up a new flute. I was renting one from the school the last few years, so I need to buy one for this school year. My father gave me access to the money my grandparents set aside for my schooling, so I should have enough to pick up a new flute and whatever else I may need that isn't supplied."

"Princess, you have the Milly that means the school has you covered for everything for as long as you attend. When it says you have a full scholarship it means room, board, clothing allowance, tuition, books and a living stipend. It is the best scholarship you can ever hope to win. All the other awards are bonus money. No need to dip into your personal savings for anything. Your awards account will be set up by the finance department. You should be able to head over tomorrow during business hours and sort out access then." Victor told me. I had no idea how impressive the Milly actually was, I figured it was similar to other hard to get scholarships and cover tuition and maybe housing but books, meal plan and extras were all mine to deal with. A huge weight seemed to lift, and I hadn't even realized I'd been worried about paying for things. That might be because my life had changed in the last twenty-four hours.

"Okay let's get going. Our plane boards shortly and we need to get Sean to the gate before he passes out. Sang you need your acceptance letter to board the plane. Only Academy students are permitted to board." Kota directed from the door.

"I thought the boarding pass got me on the flight." I said confusedly.

"Nah the ticket just lets security know you are a student and already have security clearance, it also tells new students where to meet the plane. All flying on an Academy plane takes is a faculty or student id." Victor informed me. Oh, now the ease of going through the security line made sense. I settled my bag once more and turned to join the guys at the door. Sean was starting to list like a leaky boat. Victor and Kota were trying to prop him up enough that he was at least upright. Looks like the caffeine wore off.

"Sean, buddy wake up a little. You can nap on the plane; we just need you awake a little longer. I need to show Sang where to go so you need to stand on your own." Victor gently tapped Sean on the cheek trying to rouse him enough.

Sean mumbled, apparently his default language was Japanese as that was what he was back to speaking.

"He says he's awake, you guys are just really comfortable to lean on and Victor is the right height for a pillow."

Victor looked torn between offended and laughing at Sean's comment. I just giggled. The four of us left the lounge and headed towards the gate. Victor grabbed my hand and pulled me close to them.