The Games Heroes Play by Joshua Debenedetto

all asleep.  He could have figured this out without looking around at the other students if he had thought about it.  His mental collage was full of obscure thoughts and scenarios, and he knew these must be the dreams of the other boys.  The only other person awake sat in the bed by the door, itching the scruff that passed for a beard as he looked over some papers. 
    Jay, realizing at once that this must be his resident leader Duke, climbed out of bed as quietly as he could and walked over to introduce himself.   Before Jay could say a word, Duke swung himself out of bed and motioned for Jay to follow him.  He led Jay to a door across the room from the bathroom.  Jay had assumed this was a closet, and from the size it most likely had been a large closet at one point, but it had been converted into a small office just large enough for a small desk and two chairs.  They went inside and Duke shut the door. 
    “Ok, so you’re Jay.  You got in late last night, I wasn’t there, so you went and found a bed, and fell asleep.  You aren’t sure what you’re supposed to do.”
    “Umm…well yeah ,” Jay responded.  He figured Duke had probably read his mind, as this was exactly what he was about to say.
    “You first years always think so loud at the beginning,” Duke said with a laugh.  “I put your things at the foot of your bed.  You should probably use this opportunity to take a shower as soon as we’re done here.  It’s 6am now and classes start at 8.  That means all the other students will have the bright idea of getting up between 7 and 7:30 and trying to take a shower all at the same time.  You're off to a good start kid.” 
    Jay decided Duke was a good enough person, and started to ease up.  He also decided it would be best to let Duke do all the talking.
    “Good choice, I’ll talk and you listen.  I like your thinking kid.  Alright, here’s your class schedule, and a map of the school.  And here’s your schedule for the first week, since it will be a little different than normal.  The dining hall is open 24 hours a day.  Not really something we Prometheus take advantage of often, but those Hermes and Titans sure can eat.  If you get lost around the school, just ask a fellow Prometheus how to get where you need to go.  Don’t be loud at night, don’t eat in your bed, don’t bother the older students unless you have to, and don’t read minds outside of class, and only when instructed to in class.”
    “Don’t read minds?”  Jay was surprised by this rule.
    “Yes, don’t read minds.  I realize you’re new and can’t control it most of the time, but really try not to.  It’s offensive to those who you read, and it’s obvious when you do it.  If they can read minds they’ll see you in there, and if they can’t, they could probably tell by the goofy look that will be on your face while you’re trying.”
    But you were just reading my thoughts. Jay thought to himself.
    “Yes, I was reading your thoughts.  The rule is for you first years, not for me.  And if I ever catch you trying to read my thoughts, which I will if you ever tried, you would severely regret it.”  Duke’s demeanor was suddenly fierce and firm.  Jay knew he meant what he said.
    Duke brightened up again and continued, “other than that, just find me if you have any questions.  I won’t be in here all day waiting for you to need me, but at night I will, so approach me then.  Or wake up early, and we can have more delightful meetings like this one.”
    Jay realized the conversation was over, so he thanked Duke and went to gather his things for a shower.  Jay had not looked at his class schedule in the hopes of not seeming overly excited, but now that was away from Duke he pulled the sheet out.  It listed the time, place, and instructor for just three classes; Introduction to Mind Reading, Introduction to Defensive Tactics, and Introduction to Physical Preparedness.  They certainly want to give us