Shadow, Phoebe, Baudelaire, Captain Cattitude, Suzie, and Peter had finished breakfast an hour ago. Suzie called for a special meeting after everyone was done eating. Suzie is the leader of the ramshackle gang. “Coronavirus or as it is now being called, COVID 19 has taken over Italy. The residents there are now on lockdown. As we border them, we need to take extra precautions. Constantly wash your hands, Soap kills the virus. We need to stay inside. I’m afraid this could last for a while. Finally, we need to be positive at all times. Negativity will only make this worse,” concluded Suzie. No one said a word. They were all in shock. “If you have any questions about this new decree, please feel free to ask me,” said Suzie.

“Very well, then, Shadow and I will commence her training. Come along Shadow,” said Captain Cattitude as he stood up to leave the family room and head off in the direction of his bedroom. Shadow followed suit. “Shadow take a seat. I realize I need to explain to you how important it is that you don’t abuse this power. You should only read minds when it calls for it. Never should you read minds for the fun of it. Catmoon had issues with this power until we all agreed to only use it when necessary. Do you understand?” said Captain Cattitude. “Yes,” said Shadow. “Good, now focus your energy and mind on what I am thinking. Think it with your heart and mind just like we did for levitating, that is the key,” said Captain Cattitude to Shadow he was concentrating so hard it looks like she was having issues with a bowel movement. “Concentrate but try not to squint so much and pushing down. You just need to focus on my mind without all this extra energy you are displaying,” said Captain Cattitude holding back his laughter at the sight of her.

“You are thinking I will never get this,” said Shadow, proud with herself for hearing his mind. “Um, not quite but close,” said Captain Cattitude. “Keep trying”, he said. After hours passed by Shadow could not read his mind. “I give up,” said a frustrated Shadow. “Perhaps we need to take a break for today,” captain Cattitude said. “Yes, please, thank you. I am tired,” said Shadow. “Run along, then,” said Captain Cattitude. Shadow did not hesitate when he said that. She immediately jumped off her chair and made a beeline to her bedroom to go lay down…