Free R.E.M.: The Hidden World by Corrie Fischer

overwhelmed her.  One was of an overpowering sense of hope for what could lay beyond.  The other was a fear she would not discover the assistance and guidance she so anxiously sought.  Despite the troublesome thought, she knew this was her only chance. 
    With a deep breath, Renee closed her eyes, grasped the handle, and turned the knob.  The door creaked as though with the sighs and relief of a thousand travelers before her as she pulled it slowly open.  As her view beyond the door slowly unveiled...
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10. Class Preparation
     
     
    Back in the classroom, Ms. Morrison reached for her lesson plan.  She reviewed its remaining contents for the day before her young followers arrived, all of whom apparently opted for a restroom break.  Looking down, she saw a note reminding her of a class field trip to the town’s infamous Hacker’s Forest.  Looking at the notation, she swallowed hard.  It had been years since she had entered that horrible place.  It was a location of dread in her mind for some time now.  You can do this.  You are a strong, independent woman…Am I though?
                  Ms. Morrison may have convinced the entire school, but her own self doubts arose.  She considered addressing her concerns about the field trip with the principal.  Perhaps she should simply be honest about her hesitancy regarding the issue.  After all, she and Principal Herbert had grown quite close.  If anyone was to understand her unique tale, it would be him.  No, he may yet deem me as unfit to teach.  No matter what, he must not know the whole truth about what happened…the less information, the better.   She could always blame it on the hazardous environment and potential safety risks.  After all, a child did die there some years ago, that fact alone should certainly get their attention.  Yes, that is how I can plead my case.  It is logical and limitedly factual, perfect!
                  The sound of tromping, tiny feet and light giggles came floating down the hallway.  As Ms. Morrison watched, the class members poured through the door one-by-one, immediately taking their seats.  Their feigned eagerness was more out of respectful fear than excitement.  They knew the rules of her classroom and only Danny was brave enough to openly defy Ms. Morrison.  The child did just that as he walked over to the classroom hamster cage and started taunting the poor creature with an indeterminable crumb.  Ms. Morrison immediately addressed the child’s inappropriate behavior.  “Danny Whitfield, what do you think you are doing?”  She was not in the mood for his shenanigans, not after seeing that note.
                  “Nothing, Ms. Morrison” A smug look crossed the 3 rd grader’s face.  He adored defiance as much as Ms. Morrison adored obedience.
                  “Well, you have three seconds to return to your seat. One….”  Danny did not move.  “Two…”  Ms. Morrison was already contemplating the child’s punishment.  Perhaps she would have him sit alone in the corner for the remainder of class.  As though he knew her thoughts, Danny rushed over and made it to his seat before the dreaded ‘three’ was released from her lips.  “Very well then.”  It was yet another victory for Ms. Morrison.
                  At this time, Ms. Wilkins finally made her way into the classroom, following up the last of the students.  Her sweet demeanor and extremely gentle ways often led her to a personal state of fluster and frustration.  Signs she was clearly demonstrating now.  Nevertheless, Ms. Morrison needed to address this critical matter so the assistant would have to manage without her temporarily.  “Ms. Wilkins, I must see the principal immediately.  Can you complete the lesson plan for the afternoon?”
                  Ms. Wilkins’ pale face and dripping sweat screamed a resounding no.  However, the