She laughs.

"Yeah, it's a crazy ambition. It's like those cheesy motivational posters say, you know: shoot for the moon; if you miss, you'll still end up among the stars.

...I prefer how my mom says it, though: ask for a loaf of bread, and you'll get half the loaf. Ask for half the loaf, and you'll get crumbs. That way of putting it feels more appropriate for this place."

"I think coming in a ways down the list still helps, yeah. Only one alliance gets the valedictorian."

"Yeah. It'll still be an uphill battle, though: I know I'm good, but I know everyone else here is good too."

"Well, the Chicagoan muggleborns aren't."

"Poor things. But I suppose, even with the chances they have, the school giving them those spots was better than letting them go to waste."

"I guess, but maybe there should be a formal waitlist!"

"Good idea! Yet another thing to remember if I ever manage to make it into an enclave."

"Good luck."

"Thank you!"