“We’ve delayed this meeting several times, and been able to provisionally enroll Haven, but the Right To Sapience Act requires a full interview by the end of the semester and the clock is ticking, Mrs. Powell.”

“Is it really that big of a deal?” Eileen said.

“Mrs. Powell,” said Principal Shasa. “My predecessor resigned rather than enforce the Right To Sapience Act. We have some leeway, but if Haven has not been interviewed by the end of the semester, we will be uable to enroll her for the spring.”

“Can we do it over the phone?” sighed Eileen.

Shasa shuffled some papers on her hand. “We can get some basic questions out of the way, I suppose, but part of the interview will have to be done in person. Number One: is Haven now, or has she ever been, possessed by a demonic spirit that has altered her appearance or behavior?”

“You have got to be kidding me,” Eileen said.

“I am reading the questions verbatim from the statute.”

“No, she has not.”

“Number Two: is Haven now, or has she ever been, an otherworldly creature, in whole or in part?”

“No.”

“Okay.” More papers rustling. “Does Haven now, or has she ever, associated with anyone known to the state to be an otherworldly creature, or one possessed by a demon?”

“No.”

“Very good. We’ll have to speak to Haven for the rest, but that is something I can give the DoE at least. Oh, and the examination.”

“Examination?” Eileen said, hesitantly.

“Naturally, the state can’t simply take your word for it. The Department of Health offers a minimally invasive examination to confirm that your daughter is neither otherworldly nor possessed.”

Eileen abruptly hung up the call before Shasa could proceed.

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