THE ACADEMY

**PROLOGUE**

"I'm sorry to say this, Caroline, but it's impossible for you to procrastinate any longer. It's time."

Caroline decided against letting the words, 'You're not the one to decide that' slipping out of her mouth. She just gripped the phone tighter, her hands trembling slightly – from anger or fear she didn't know – and took a deep breath.

"I know this is hard for you," Harry continued, "but remember, this is what you've been training her for. Now, she's ready."

"You're right," Caroline admitted unwillingly, unable to find any more excuses. "I just… she's young. Innocent. This will change her."

"Into what she's destined to be," Harry finished. "Just as brave as her mother, I'm sure. You won't need to worry about her anymore. Your other two children can handle themselves."

"You're sure you can't take all of them?" she asked weakly, knowing the answer before it was said.

"I'm sorry, Carol. We're raising enough suspicion as it is, but to take in any more of your children at such unusual ages would undoubtedly draw unwanted attention to us." He sounded formal, but she could detect the faintest trace of sadness in his voice.

Timmy's seven. This'll break his heart. Caroline didn't say the words. Emotions were supposed to be kept on hold, after all. She needed to maintain her composure.

Caroline heard the door close as her daughter arrived home with her boyfriend. Timmy's ecstatic scream came from upstairs as he galloped down to meet them.

"Okay," Caroline agreed with a heavy sigh. "Send it as soon as possible."

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