One
Contains spoilersOverview
Caseworker Linus Baker inspects a DICOMY orphanage after Daisy’s telekinetic outburst injures Marcus’s tail. He confirms the children’s welfare and maintains procedural neutrality, refusing to reveal his report.
The master questions the system’s long-term treatment of magical children, planting unease. Linus glimpses genuine warmth among the children and leaves to file his findings.
Summary
Linus Baker observes Daisy levitating blocks with remarkable control while taking thorough notes in the master’s office. When he asks how often she uses her ability, the master tries to shape the answer before Linus insists on hearing from Daisy directly. Daisy says it happens once or twice a month, and Linus suspects she was coached.
Probing for control and safety, Linus learns Daisy once hurt Marcus by telekinetically throwing a chair, which bent his tail and triggered the investigation. Linus explains emotions may trigger her power and urges reflection before acting. Daisy promises to try, then runs off when the bell signals biscuits.
The master presses Linus to reveal his report and criticizes prior caseworkers for seeing only risks, not children. She questions how he can work for DICOMY and what becomes of the children as adults. Linus deflects, citing his focus on youth and DICOMA’s jurisdiction over adults, and insists questions be submitted in writing.
On his way out, Linus hears laughter and quietly observes the children in the kitchen—a feathered boy, a young witch, a siren-like older girl, a selkie boy, along with Daisy and Marcus bonding over drawings on his cast. Satisfied by their camaraderie and Marcus’s recovery, Linus steps into the rain to begin his long journey home and to file his report.
Who Appears
- Linus Baker
DICOMY caseworker; observes Daisy’s telekinesis, investigates Marcus’s injury, refuses to share his report, and leaves to file it.
- Daisy
Eleven-year-old telekinetic; caused Marcus’s tail injury, apologizes, and vows to control emotions after demonstrating levitation.
- Master of the orphanage
Anxious administrator; tries to guide Daisy’s answers, challenges DICOMY’s system, and presses Linus about his report.
- Marcus
Boy with a tail; recovering from Daisy’s chair incident, cheerful, and asks Daisy to draw on his cast.