Linus evaluates a young telekinetic girl (Daisy) at an orphanage after an incident in which the girl threw a chair at another child with the power of her mind. The master of the orphanage is eager to present Daisy in a positive light and to downplay the frequency with which she uses her gifts. Linus is kind and professional with the child. The master observes that Linus is good with the children; he tells her it’s important to give all children a chance. The master asks Linus how he can work for the Department in Charge of Magical Youth (DICOMY), but Linus shuts down this questioning quickly and leaves. On his way out, he sees the children gathered in the kitchen. One is a selkie—a creature that transforms from seal to human form—another a siren, another a witch; there are number of other unusual children. He also sees official DICOMY posters that say things like, “We’re happiest when we listen to those in charge” and “Who needs magic when you have your imagination?” (14).

At work, Linus is confronted by his boss, Ms. Jenkins, and her assistant, Gunther. The workplace is strictly regimented, and workers are under constant surveillance by management.