The following Monday, Jace's first day at Middleton High began. As he and Anita walked to school together, Jace's heart raced with a mixture of excitement and apprehension. He had faced many challenges in his long life, but this felt different. The thought of navigating the social complexities of high school, learning modern subjects, and maintaining his cover was daunting.Anita, sensing his anxiety, gave him a reassuring smile. "You've got this, Jace. Just be yourself—well, the version of yourself that's a normal high school student. And remember, I'm right there with you."Jace nodded, taking a deep breath. "Thanks, Anita. I'll do my best."As they entered the school, the familiar sights and sounds of bustling students, lockers clanging, and teachers preparing for the day washed over them. Jace's senses were on high alert, taking in everything from the chatter of students to the faint scent of fresh paint in the hallways.Anita led Jace to the administration office to pick up his schedule. Mrs. Thompson, the school's secretary, greeted them with a warm smile. "Good morning, Anita. And you must be Jace, our new student."Jace smiled politely, channeling the quiet confidence that had helped him navigate countless social situations in the past. "Yes, ma'am. I'm looking forward to starting here."Mrs. Thompson handed him his schedule. "I've placed you in most of the same classes as Anita, so she can help you get acclimated. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask.""Thank you," Jace replied, taking the schedule and glancing over it. The list of subjects—history, English, mathematics, science, and physical education—was both familiar and foreign. He had studied many of these topics in some form or another over the centuries, but he knew the modern approach would be different.Anita leaned in to look at his schedule. "Looks like we'll be together for most of the day. Ready to meet your teachers?"Jace nodded, though his mind was already running through strategies for fitting in. He had studied modern speech patterns, slang, and social norms in preparation, but he knew that real-life interactions would be the true test.Their first class was history, which Jace found ironic given his own long past. The classroom was filled with students chatting before the bell rang, and as they walked in, several heads turned to look at the new student."Everyone, this is Jace," Anita said, introducing him as they took their seats. "He's new here, so be nice."The students around them offered polite smiles and greetings, and Jace returned them, taking his seat next to Anita. As the teacher, Mr. Daniels, began the lesson on early American colonization, Jace found himself intrigued. The details and perspectives presented were new to him, adding to his already vast knowledge of history. He quickly realized that he could learn much from this world's interpretation of the past.Throughout the day, Jace continued to navigate his new environment. English class involved analyzing modern literature, a stark contrast to the ancient texts he was familiar with. Mathematics presented challenges with new methods and concepts, though Jace was quick to grasp the logic behind them. Science introduced him to the wonders of modern technology and theories that were far more advanced than what he had encountered centuries ago.By the time lunch rolled around, Jace was mentally exhausted but pleased with how the day was going. Anita and her friends had helped him navigate the social dynamics, and he had even managed to make a few acquaintances.As they sat under the oak tree in the courtyard, the group welcomed Jace with open arms. Sarah, ever the curious one, peppered him with questions about his background, while Liam tried to engage him in a debate about the latest tech trends. Emily, quieter but no less interested, observed him closely, as if trying to unravel the mystery of the new student.Jace answered their questions with carefully crafted responses, relying on the backstory he and Anita had created. He found himself enjoying their company, though he remained cautious not to reveal too much.By the end of the day, Jace felt a sense of accomplishment. He had successfully navigated his first day of high school, made a few friends, and continued to protect the secret of his true identity. As he and Anita walked home together, the sun setting in the distance, Jace couldn't help but feel a growing connection to this world—and to Anita.