St Euphemia's Secondary School (or better yet, St Em's) was one of the most private and prestigious high schools in the state. For rich young men and women with far too much time on their hands, it was the perfect place to gain a gentle push of an education, yet receive one of the most recognized certificates in the entire country. Like all filthy rich schools, it was based on twenty-two-and-a-half acres, groomed to perfection and filled with state of the art facilities. Everything there was trimmed perfectly to the 't' (even the grass length had a regulation).

However, even in this perfect world of lush rose bush gardens and sandstone gargoyles, something sinister lurked below the painted and polished surface, like the crooked tie of a prefect.

There was a dark blotch on the cream colour of St Em's chapel walls (one could say literally and figuratively).

A week before, a strange letter was sent from the head of the school, Headmaster Padre. It was unexpected for the wealthiest parents in the country to find out that the oasis of their children's education was facing some troubles - troubles which were never explained in the letter.

"Dearest parents and carers,

It is with a repentant heart that I must inform you all that the teachers of years ten and above have applied for extended leave due to pressing health concerns. This matter has already been sorted - new teachers are arriving in time for next Monday.

Regarding the alleged 'health concerns' of the school, with complete and utter honesty, I must stress that there is no danger nor threat that can affect your child here at St Euphemia's. Your child's safety is our utmost priority, and if there was even the slightest chance of danger occurring at my school, your son/daughter would be returned to you in the swiftest of time.

The fact of the matter is, there is no reason to be alarmed, merely it seems that the stress of teaching has gotten to most of our staff, especially since they must uphold such strong values many other teachers are very much unused to. They will return as soon as their situation allows.

It is with great pleasure that I welcome our new staff, and I hope that we can limit all disruptions which follow with this staff shuffling.

Yours Sincerely,

Headmaster Padre of St Euphemia's Secondary School."

It was odd, and even though many could appreciate the randomness of the event, many overlooked its importance - its significance. That something sinister was clawing its way up, wrapping its slimy fingers around the students - but at that moment, no one really seemed to care.