26

As time passes, the number of people raising their hands starts to dwindle. Eventually, the room is still—and you see Dina glance towards the clock on the wall before leaning closer to her microphone.

"If there's no one else," she says, "then I will officially conclude tonight's meeting. Thank you all for sharing your thoughts," she adds, nodding at the crowd as a few people begin to stand—and for a second, you think you notice her gaze linger around Mr. Clarence. "Remember that you can leave a note in the suggestion box in the foyer, or talk to our information desk if you wish to get in touch with anyone on the council. And just a reminder that if you want to stay up-to-date with everything happening in the town, the local news site will usually be able to tell you. We also have a bulletin board in the front lobby, and everyone is welcome to drop in anytime to see it. That's all; have a good evening, everybody."

With that, the council begins to file off the stage. Feeling a little dazed, you get to your feet.

"Gosh, that was a long one," you hear Maxie saying—you had almost forgotten they and Zoe were sitting next to you. "Huknock, how did you find your first meeting?"