I finished the story by imagining Ai and Bala as PS1-era 2d sprites sitting in a dark void. Added to the mystique! There's so much to unpack in Academy II, and I'm not gonna lie, it's a headier ending than I expected from the Academy series. I really loved the ever-broadening scope and worldbuilding (very Xenogears) as a story that began in the back of a dark van expanded, more and more, until it encompassed all of reality. The anthology-style format built a wonderful world while keeping it grounded in its characters. Using Academy II to blow up the world, bringing in other authors, is an incredible experiment in continuing the themes and structure of the rest of the story. I really do adore this series, it's so incredibly well-written. Thanks so much Mia and the other authors!!!!!

Hey kind of sounds like our house. 

The cold, uncaring expressions of the workers did nothing to help my displeasure as I found myself whisked off with freshly painted nails and secured into a salon chair. I couldn’t believe what was happening as my hair was brushed and curled. I tried to shake away but all that did was let the extensions fall around my face. Next the makeup! I had never worn any before so the sensation of having my face painted was strange and unwelcome. And with no mirror around I couldn’t even see the damage of what they did to my face!    And last but not least… the dress!    “No… no I’m a man!” I objected, as loudly as I could, which in reality was more of a slurred whimper as the either effortless secured it over me before depositing me in the purple crate.    I looked out through the door and saw the woman who had claimed me writing away and some paper. I crawled to the bars of the front of the cage.    “Please… please don’t do this.. I… I don’t want this!” I said, tears forming in my eyes 

Sam: "After you put your shoes on, we'll take you to your Mommy. She's right outside" He gets the shoes from the cubby and puts them on him. He puts his shoes on too.  Then he opens the door. 

Apparently they are not taking members. I opened up the 'Register" link, followed the instructions and did not get an answer. It seems to have fallen under the control of some rather standoffish people