POV: Principal Lear

The emergency assembly at 5 PM was mandatory for all students.

I stood at the podium in the Great Hall, looking out at four hundred faces ranging from concerned to defiant to completely oblivious. This speech needed to be perfect. Clear enough to convey danger without causing panic. Firm enough to ensure compliance without triggering rebellious instincts.

"By now you've all received notices about tonight's blood moon and the corresponding lockdown protocols," I started. ...