Three days later, Charlotte comes downstairs and finds them in the kitchen with Adelia.

  "I'm ready." Her voice is hoarse. "Tell me the rest."

  Over the next hour, Adelia explains the magical world hidden alongside the non-magical one. Different types of magic—elemental, healing, transformation, protection. Aelwynne Academy, founded centuries ago to train young witches and wizards.

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  Charlotte listens, absorbing it all. Overwhelming. Terrifying. And—if she's honest—a little bit exciting.

  "There's one more thing." Adelia's expression grows serious. "Garka's people have been getting closer. We've detected magical signatures in the area. We need to get you to Aelwynne as soon as possible."

  Charlotte nods slowly. "Okay. I'll go. But no more secrets."

  "No more secrets," Adelia agrees.

  For the first time in her life, there might be a place where Charlotte belongs. Where being different isn't something to hide.