Harlan Band, Catalina, Rosie Ianni, Radu, and Bova are in a classroom at the Starcademy while assistant principal Miss Davenport is taking roll. The students learn that, while their peers are out on field training, their own field tests have been cancelled due to poor academic performance. "It is for your own good," she tells them. She leaves the room momentarily to track down the students' teacher, Commander Goddard.