A Harrowing Education

By Michael Mcguire

Andrew Masterson has quietly spent his eighteen years in the tiny town of Skenny. But his world is quickly changed by a series of life-altering events in the span of one fateful week. Andrew will question all he has known about his family, life, and the Great Provider's teachings and protections. After the sudden emergence of remarkable ability, Andrew is forced into a journey that will take him far from Skenny.

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: Apr 28, 2013
• ISBN: 9781626757332

Book preview

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The Week That Changed Everything

Monday

Andrew took his lunch bag from the kitchen counter, opened it, and grimaced: Boiled chicken on bread and some carrots on the side. Again. Why does it always have to be chicken and carrots?

His mother looked at him sternly over her glasses. She had been cleaning some basil and thyme to bring to her shop in the market. Andrew’s mother was one of the most important shopkeepers in Skenny. He didn’t understand what the big deal was about being the town herbalist, when her herbs couldn’t make his sandwiches taste any better.

Remember, Andy, she said, knowing full well that he hated to be called Andy, a healthy boy is a good boy. That was her favorite saying. Andrew heard those words at night as he fell asleep. He felt he must be the healthiest boy he knew. Besides, you wouldn’t want your lunch taken away by the Censors!

Walking out the door, into the warmth of early Autumn, Andrew smiled. In two years there would be no more worries about Censors investigating meals. He saw his friends waiting ahead. The walks to and from The Upper House were when he spent the most time with his two friends.

As Frank stood beside the gatepost, Andrew thought, not for the first time, how much his friend looked its twin. He was jealous that Frank received one of the few exemptions, allowing him to bring extra food. Andrew, on the other hand, was ever wary of Width. Jimmy stood beside Frank. Short and muscular, the Fitness teachers had always loved Jimmy because he never tired out in class.

Hey, Frank said, as Andrew walked up to them. Chicken today?

They all laughed and continued on the way to school. They turned a corner, and Andrew saw a woman standing across the street.

Look at what she’s wearing, Frank said. No wonder they call them Rags.

Andrew thought the woman looked to be about his parents’ age. She wore a loose-fitting patchwork of clothes, which hid her form completely. A torn hood hid everything but her face. The Rags woman stopped a man passing by to ask for directions.

Can you tell me the way to Jay Street? As the boys drew closer, Andrew saw her offer a polite smile.

As the man looked her over, his nostrils flared and mouth twisted. They won’t be selling any of the slop you eat over there, he said. This is a reputable town. Go somewhere else, Rags! He then hurried across the street and away.

Andrew couldn’t help but feel sorry for her, as she turned and walked the other way. He knew better than to help her, though, because if anyone found out, he might lose his apprenticeship. He did feel the need to say something, however. Do either of you ever feel bad for them?

Frank laughed. For the Rags?

He’s just joking, Frank, Jimmy said. No one feels bad for the Rags.

Yeah, no one, Andrew said. Just a joke.

As they walked, a coach approached them from behind. Andrew found the clip-clop of the horses’ hooves soothing. Occasionally he wished he lived far enough away to ride the Boys’ Coach.

As the coach moved past, he saw this was the Girls’ Coach. The girls sat on benches, facing each other in two long rows. As the coach pulled away, Andrew thought he saw one girl look back at them. It almost looked like she lifted her hand to wave, but then quickly put it back in her lap.

He turned back to his friends; Jimmy was watching the coach. He seemed in better spirits than normal considering it was Monday morning and they were headed to school.

Another coach passed, moving in the other direction. This was a smaller wagon than the Girls’ Coach but was pulled by four horses. The men in the back of it worked for the Constable. Andrew could not imagine where they could be going in such a hurry that they required four large horses for such a small coach.

The falling leaves, signifying Andrew’s favorite time of year, slowly brightened his mood. Of course, this only lasted until he arrived at school. The Skenny Upper House was dull and grey like most buildings in town, and setting foot inside was enough to dampen anyone’s spirits.

There were three lines before three tables, and at each table a Censor waited. The first table’s Censor was an old woman the students called Batty Matty. He moved past her line, as it usually took the longest. The second line was headed by Buggie, who also doubled as the cook. Students had to eat his food if theirs was forgotten or confiscated by the Censors. Andrew always felt uncomfortable around him. He moved on to the third line led by Miss Tate, the Health teacher. All the students were fond of Miss Tate. She was not much older than them and had only recently finished her apprenticeship and joined the staff. Andrew joined her line and removed his lunch from his pack.

Two rows over, there was a shout. What is this? Buggie leapt from his seat, something dangling in his outstretched hand.

Andrew recognized the boy before Buggie as Sammy Gree. Sammy was shaking, his eyes focused on what looked like a piece of meat waving in front of his face. H-h-h-am, he said.

Ham? Buggie threw the meat on the ground and picked up a piece of paper from his table. You are on a greens-only diet, are you not?

Sammy looked down at his slightly large belly and nodded.

Well, I guess you will be eating my food today. Buggie smiled. And at the end of the day, you will remain, so that we may fetch your parents and discuss the consequences for all of you.

Sammy slowly shuffled past the Tables. Andrew returned his attention to his own line, where the boy in front of him had just had his lunch approved. Andrew stepped forward.

Good morning, Mr. Masterson, a man said, and Andrew looked up. Principal Rockner, a middle-aged, graying man who rarely spoke to students, sat in front of him.

Uh, good morning, sir, Andrew said. Where was Miss Tate?

Principal Rockner extended his hand. Please present your bag for inspection. Andrew handed over his bag. Principal Rockner took a long look despite its meager contents, then wrote something on a clipboard. Very well, proceed.

On the way to his locker, Andrew bumped into Frank, who motioned him over to his own locker. Andrew looked around. Talking in the halls was not permitted, but no teachers or administrators were nearby, so he quickly followed. What’s going on? Andrew said.

Jimmy’s got a secret girl, Frank said quietly. For once, there was no quick, easy smile. Here comes Batty, time to run. Frank quietly shut his locker and ducked into a classroom.

Batty Matty hobbled over to Andrew. He realized he’d never been alone with her and found himself afraid. She had scraggly brown hair with some grey mixed in and several warts on her nose and cheeks.

What are you doing here, Masterson? He didn’t realize she knew his name. This isn’t on the way from the Censors’ Tables to your Early Room.

Andrew briefly wondered if she knew the routes all the students should take, then ran for it. I-uh-sorry! he said, without turning back.

Once he turned a few corners, he slowed down and began to think about what Frank had said. A secret girl? How could Jimmy have a secret girl? There were strict rules about relationships at school. Boys and girls were completely segregated until their last year at The Upper House. Until then, they were not to speak or interact. Maybe he hadn’t been wrong about the girl in the coach.

After Andrew put his bag in his locker and took out his books for his literature class, he headed into his Early Room. Miss Estherine sat behind the desk and checked him off as he entered. Good morning, Miss Estherine, Andrew mumbled and then shuffled to a seat in the back.

While Miss Estherine checked the attendance, Andrew began to review his notes in case Mr. Robiner, the Literature teacher, had another pop quiz. He had long since given up wondering why they took attendance after everyone had already been accounted for by a Censor. Andrew found himself unable to concentrate on his notes. He couldn’t believe that Jimmy would be so stupid. He’d heard of other students getting caught, and some of their parents had lost their Masterships. Jimmy’s father was the Boatmaker for Skenny, a very important job since Skenny was a river town. Jimmy’s mother held another important job for a town this far north, as the Furrier.

The bell rang, and it was time for announcements. There was a knock, and one of the Apprentice Teachers came in with a sheet of paper. The students never knew their names, and they had no interaction with them. They simply sat in the back of classrooms and took notes on what the actual teachers did.

The AT, as the students called them, began. First, corn has joined the list of foods requiring approval for lunches. This results from a Determination that it contributes to Width. Second, Miss Tate will not be available for morning classes today. Andrew was hopeful that she would be back for his class in the afternoon. Last, we have received recognition for our Physical Stature, and as such, will compete in this year’s Regional Games at Elban.

A groan came from Andrew’s right, and everyone turned to see Johnny Smithson clap a hand over his mouth, his eyes opened wide. Then, as one, they all turned to Miss Estherine. Atop her head, her grey bun seemed to quiver with anger that also flowed from her icy blue eyes. Fortunately for Johnny, she simply said, Please proceed.

Yes, ma’am, the AT said. As a result of this honor, Fitness will be doubled from now until spring, so that you may all prepare for the summer’s competition. This begins in one week, after your Integration Lessons.

The AT was moving to the back of the room now, and Miss Estherine stood up at the front. Everyone knew she, the senior female Health teacher at the school, taught the Boys’ Integration Lessons. Very well, class, you have been selected for a high honor, and I expect that you will excel. I will begin your Integration Lessons tomorrow, for which you will arrive one hour early. That schedule will continue all week, except Friday, when you will arrive two hours early to make up for the lost day today. Anyone who fails the Integration Exam at the end of Friday’s lesson will not be permitted to compete in the games.

As pleasant as this threat sounded, Andrew knew that anyone who could not compete would shame their parents. If there are no questions, we will conduct the Initial Saying.

This was becoming the most exciting day of Andrew’s life. His class would be the first of Skenny students to receive early Integration Lessons! He also knew that the town that won Regional Games usually received some advantage in promotion. Perhaps his father would get a place in the capital administration, and they could move there. Andrew had always wanted to visit Elban.

He forced himself to stop thinking about it when the class began reciting the Initial Saying. Upper House, teach us well, protect us from deceit. Keep us safe, apart from girls, until His wisdom we’ve received.

At the last line, Andrew thought again of the Integration Lessons. He had no idea what was involved or how the Great Provider’s wisdom would relate to the girls. Miss Estherine dismissed them, and the class filed silently out of the room. Frank caught up to him in the hallway. As they quietly walked to Literature together, they exchanged a look: This was big.

They turned a corner, and Andrew nearly ran into Batty Matty. She glared at him and said, I’m watching you, Masterson.

Once she had hobbled away, Frank laughed quietly. I think she likes you.

Before Andrew could respond, they had reached the classroom door. He and Frank took their seats, and Mr. Robiner began his lecture. He was a tall, bald man, and Andrew usually found it difficult to stay awake in his classes. His flat voice did not help, either. Good morning, boys. I had a particularly exciting exam prepared for you today, however as you are likely overwhelmed by the news this morning, I will forgo it as to spare you the embarrassment. Allow us to proceed to the Initial Saying, then.

The entire class said, A well written book, is one from which you can cook.

Excellent, Mr. Robiner said, showing little enthusiasm. Now, does anyone have a particularly favorite portion of last night’s reading they would like to review?

While the class kiss-up, Mark Biller, espoused his fascination with preventing overly damp soil, Andrew noticed that a piece of paper had appeared on his desk, folded many times. He looked to Frank, who was focusing on Mark.

Andrew opened the note and read:

We need to talk. I think he might get caught.

Andrew had to read it three times. Jimmy knew that this was Forbidden. They were only fifteen. He nodded to Frank. He was worried about Jimmy, too.

Mr. Masterson, would you care to comment on Mr. Biller’s point?

Andrew’s eyes opened wide. Mr. Robiner never called on anyone that didn’t volunteer unless he thought he had caught them doing something wrong.

I apologize, I must have lost track of the lesson, Andrew said. Perhaps Mr. Biller can restate his point?

That won’t be necessary, Mr. Robiner said. You will write 500 times that you will pay attention in class. Andrew was tired just thinking about how late he would be working to complete the punishment and the volumes of homework they normally received. On top of that he remembered how early he would have to get up to be here for the Integration Lesson.

At the end of class, Andrew began the dreaded walk to the gymnasium for Fitness. The boys filled the locker room and changed in silence as the teacher, Boddo Brodsky, walked up and down the rows of lockers to make sure there was no socialization.

Each day, they had to perform one feat each of strength, speed, and agility. Rarely did they ever repeat a feat, so they never knew what was coming, and could not practice. Andrew took some level of comfort from this - at least one class didn’t have any homework.

In order to get an A for the day, students were required to finish in the top five of at least one of the three feats. Unfortunately, there were thirty boys in the class. That meant that at most, only half the class could get the required A grade on any day. Andrew rarely did.

To begin, the Initial Saying, Brodsky said, and they all spoke aloud: A strong, agile frame is the key to a long, healthy life.

Alright, first up today is agility! Mr. Brodky said. Will this be the day I get a volunteer? No one moved. "I suppose it is up to me, again. He walked up to the line and began pointing at some of the boys. You, you, and you, step forward. Three boys stepped out of the line. I want each of you to put on one of these blindfolds, he said, pulling a few pieces of black fabric from his pocket. Lay on the floor side by side so that your fingers are just out of reach from each other as you extend your arms. The boys lay down and spread their arms wide, then readjusted until they were the proper distance apart. These boys will get a pass today." No one wanted to earn a pass.

Mr. Brodsky led the rest of the boys to form a line a few feet from the side of the first boy’s stomach. Now, each of you will run across the boys, stepping over them. Anyone who steps on a fellow student immediately fails for the day. Once you have completed this, take your place at the end of the line. When the first student is back in front, wait for further instructions. He took out his pocket watch.

Andrew didn’t think this was a particularly challenging task, however he knew that further instructions were never good. They all walked quickly over their classmates and returned to the line without incident.

Alright, Mr. Brodsky said, now do it faster. They all ran through the exercise again and again, until he no longer had them stopping, and simply called Faster! repeatedly.

Andrew could see the boys on the floor tense up, as they anticipated the worst. The only boy who had been stepped on so far was the last one, and it had been his hand. Arnold Willbee sat on the side, looking dejected at the F he’d earned.

The student ahead of Andrew was Ben Wilden. He ran forward as fast as he could, got over the first boy, but stepped solidly on the stomach of the second, falling on the chest of the third. There was a cracking sound, and the last boy on the floor yelled in pain. Mr. Brodsky slowly walked over to him, knelt, and began feeling around on his chest despite the student’s screams of pain. Finally he said, Wilden, you get an ‘F’. You broke his ribs. You can help him to the nurse’s office. The rest of the class is dismissed.

Next, Andrew and Frank had lunch, and he finally had the chance to talk to him about Jimmy. So what’s going on? When did he tell you? Andrew said before digging into his sandwich.

Yesterday, he told me about her right after we dropped you off.

Andrew quickly swallowed. Why didn’t he tell me? Jimmy was his best friend. Andrew had been the one who had introduced Jimmy to Frank last year, and now Frank was the one Jimmy was telling about his secret girl?

He didn’t want me to know either, really, Frank said. "Once we were walking away from your house, he told me he had to do something and wanted me to keep watch for him and see if anyone was coming. He wouldn’t tell me what it was, but he said that if I was a real friend, I would do it because it was important.

We went into that small wooded area that no one uses except the Rags, on the way to my house. We got to one point, and he made me stop and promise not to follow him. I said ok, and then he went on.

So what did you do? Andrew said.

Well, of course I followed him! I couldn’t just stand there. I wanted to know what he was up to.

Andrew raised his eyebrows, leaned back and folded his arms.

Frank laughed. Ok, yeah, so I followed him, and then there he was talking to this girl. I think she goes to The Upper House. I recognized her from the Girls’ Coach that passes us on the way to school. Andrew thought back to the girl he had seen that morning. So now that I knew he was in really big trouble, I hurried back to where he left me. But then I heard someone coming. I had to make quick a decision.

Frank was speaking very rapidly now, and Andrew was so engrossed in the story that he abandoned the remainder of his sandwich. So what did you do? Andrew said.

I ran up to him and told him someone was coming. The girl freaked out. Frank’s eyes got wide, and Andrew could see he was reliving how scared he’d been, too. I was worried then, because whoever it was might find the three of us together, and then we’d all be in it for talking to each other. But Jimmy was really calm, and he took the girl’s hand, squeezed it, then told her that it would be ok. He led us out a side way, and she went out onto the street first, while we hid, and then we went in the opposite direction.

What did he say once you were safe?

He told me not to talk about it with anyone. And I said that he had to tell me what was going on, and he said he loved Jenny – that’s her name – and he wouldn’t say anything else about it. Frank paused and suddenly looked very serious. Andrew, you can’t confront him yet. You need to think of a way to ‘find out’ about this on your own. Otherwise, he’ll know I told you, and he’ll just be mad and won’t listen to anything we say.

Andrew nodded. Ok, I won’t say anything, but we need to come up with a plan because he’s going to get caught eventually, everyone does. He looked around the room, then said even more quietly, We all know the stories. Don’t you remember when Ben Lillo and Mary Keeter were caught behind Ben’s Dad’s chicken coop? They didn’t care that he was the town Poulter; they still threw both families out of Skenny.

Yeah, we didn’t have chicken for two years, Frank said. Hey, I don’t remember you complaining! He laughed.

This is serious, Andrew said. That’s not the only story we’ve heard.

Maybe some of those are just stories. Frank was quiet a moment, then said. But what about the Integration Lessons?

I almost forgot, what with everything with Jimmy! Andrew said.

Well, I think it’s pretty exciting that we get them early, Frank said, smiling.

Andrew didn’t know what to think, but then lunch was over, and they had to go.

They left the cafeteria and walked to Health. Andrew opened the door, and when he saw Miss Tate behind her desk, he was relieved. In addition to her being young, she never gave anyone punishment assignments and was the only person who worked in the school who was nice to the students. She also gave what everyone could agree was a reasonable amount of homework.

Good afternoon, Miss Tate, they said.

Good afternoon, Andrew. Good afternoon, Frank. She did not look up and smile, as she usually did.

Is something wrong? Frank said. Andrew looked around. No one else was there yet.

Oh, yes, there is, but it will be covered in class. Please take a seat. She finally looked up and offered them a smile, but Andrew was not reassured and felt she looked very tired, if not sick.

A few minutes later, everyone was in the classroom, and Miss Tate looked around. She always took attendance by sight, never failing to notice if anyone was missing. Satisfied that everyone was there, she crossed over to the other side of the room and shut the door. Andrew noticed that she was absentmindedly twirling a finger in her long brown hair.

Good afternoon, class. As you all heard this morning, you are going to be in a very unique position starting tomorrow, as you will be taking your Integration Lessons two years earlier than most students.

She stopped speaking. At last, she said, May I trust you?

Andrew felt as though she had said this directly to him and that he was the only one in the room. He wanted only to live up to whatever it was that she was going to share.

No one responded to her, but she seemed satisfied, so she said, I have never truly agreed with the Integration Curriculum. This single statement seemed to suck all of the air from the room. It was as though she had said that the sky was not blue or that the Great Provider would not keep them safe. No one was permitted to disagree with the school curriculum. It was designed by the government in the High Capital, and not even the Regional Capital in Elban could overrule it.

I know this may come as a shock to you, Miss Tate went on, but I hope you will see what great risk I am taking in saying this. What you will be taught by Miss Estherine is just wrong. I would not normally say this, however you are so young, you don’t stand a chance of seeing through it. Usually a few boys and girls, when they are seventeen or eighteen, as is normally the case, can figure out that this entire Integration Curriculum is just absurd, but honestly, I don’t think any of you are mature enough yet to do it.

She took a deep breath. Andrew wasn’t really sure what she was talking about, but he also didn’t yet know what was involved in the Integration Lessons, either. All I want you to do, class, is keep an open mind as you learn about the girls you will be paired with. Please, it is all I ask.

Then Miss Tate coughed, looked around as if she had just woken up from a dream, and said, Very well, then, please open your books, and let’s discuss the effects of Vitamin A.

As Andrew walked home from school with Frank and Jimmy later that afternoon, Frank and Jimmy spoke only of what Miss Tate had said. After awhile, Andrew could no longer stand it. Look, guys, I think you should stop talking about it. She is counting on us to keep what she said secret.

Jimmy and Frank jumped, and it was as though they had forgotten he was even there. Then Jimmy nodded. You’re right. But I can’t wait for tomorrow.

Tuesday

A girl is a creature to fear and loathe, Miss Estherine said. She looked each of the boys in the eye, one by one, as though daring them to question her. And does anyone know why?

No one volunteered an answer. For as much as Andrew and his friends had been looking forward to this, it wasn’t nearly as exciting as they had hoped. As soon as Andrew had passed the Censors, he and his friends were led to a door that had always been bolted shut, which opened to a narrow, winding staircase down into the dark. There, Andrew entered an enormous room with at least two hundred seats, a lectern and a rolling blackboard at the front. A few scattered candles, casting shadows everywhere, lit the room.

Miss Estherine had appeared from behind the board, dressed entirely in black, rather than her usual drab grey. Now she was in full-fledged lecture mode. Girls lie and live to deceive, and once they grow to be women, they are pure creatures of hate.

Andrew was confused. Wasn’t she a woman? He looked around, but the others seemed equally lost.

I see that many of you are puzzled. Well, stop it. You’ll need your wits if you are to handle the living menaces you will face tomorrow, and the girls will assume you are fools simply because you are boys. She strode around the lectern and surveyed the room. Yes, you heard me. Tomorrow you will each be paired with a girl so you may learn the true level of their deception.

Miss Esterine hurried behind the blackboard and wheeled something out in front of the class. A wave of whispers moved across the room. Silence! The room immediately went quiet.

In front of the room, Andrew was now faced with a dummy, much like the ones he often saw in town in the windows of clothes shops. Unlike those, this one had a face which bore a smile and soft, blue eyes. In the shops, the faces were always smooth and blank. This dummy had a long, blonde and braided wig, as well as a colorful, pink and yellow dress. Miss Esterine stood beside the dummy and Andrew thought it looked much friendlier than her. She said, Would anyone like to tell me what they would expect from a girl like this?

No one moved. Then, to Andrew’s surprise, Jimmy spoke up without even raising his hand. I think she looks rather nice.

Miss Esterine nodded gravely. Yes, I suppose you would.

She walked behind the blackboard again, and wheeled out another dummy. This one elicited not whispers but gasps. It was dressed entirely in the black clothes usually worn by men who worked outside the city, including trousers and a heavy shirt. Her medium-length, black wig was pulled behind her head and matched the darkness of her eyes. Most unnerving to Andrew was the assortment of knives at her waist. There seemed to be one for every imaginable purpose: eating, hunting, boning a fish, carving a roast, and many others he did not recognize. The fact that she would have some of these was not surprising, but he could not imagine anyone having a use for all of them. Andrew looked back up to her face and noticed part of her upper lip was lifted, revealing some of her teeth. It reminded him of a rabid dog.

Now, Miss Esterine said, can anyone tell me what they think of this girl?

Someone in the back of the room said, She’s like something out of a nightmare!

Yes! Miss Esterine said. She looked triumphant. A nightmare. What you will learn through your Integration Lessons is that when you see this, she pointed to the first dummy, you must remember that what they are hiding, is this. Miss Estherine then pointed to the frightening version. In fact, she said, you must learn to set aside their ruse entirely.

Andrew looked over at Jimmy, but his friend did not have the same look of surprise that everyone else did. Instead, he looked skeptical.

Miss Estherine looked over the class before turning to the blackboard. There are only three reasons why men and women should interact. She wrote three words in large, block letters on the board: Occupation, Indoctrination, Procreation.

Will anyone be so kind as to volunteer why you would need to interact with such repulsive creatures for the reasons I have written on the board? No one’s hands moved. Very well. Mr. Masterson, care to hazard a guess?

Andrew faked a cough, trying to think of what to say. Um, well, I supposed Occupation would relate to something they do. So maybe they have a trade that involves something you need.

Miss Estherine offered a thin smile. Yes, very good. You see, it is unfortunate, but sometimes in our society of limited means, you have no choice but to interact with such vile creatures. For example, just yesterday my husband had to go into town for some fresh basil. She met Andrew’s eyes as she said this, and he turned bright red. He could hear Frank gasp at his desk to the left.

Oh, Mr. Mellin, did you have something to add about one of the other items on the board?

Now it was Frank’s turn to scramble for an answer. I guess an example of Indoctrination would be if they were our teachers. That’s why we have to speak to you.

No one had ever said anything like that to a teacher before, and Miss Estherine didn’t seem to know what to do. After a brief pause, she said, That’s correct, Mr. Mellin. Frank and Andrew looked at each other, and Andrew mouthed, Thank you.

I don’t expect that any of you are familiar with the third word, Miss Estherine went on, however there are two very important points that you should be made aware of. First, only women are capable of bearing children. I, for one, wish this were not so, but there it is. As such, despite all I have told you about girls and their older counterparts, it is the civic duty of each of you to one day marry and have at least one child, for the sake of the state. Do you have any questions about this?

Andrew had one: what did she mean, at least one child? No one had more than one. He thought she was trying to confuse them, and that maybe Miss Tate was right.

Jimmy raised his hand. Why was he volunteering so much? Andrew couldn’t imagine wanting to draw Miss Estherine’s attention even once a day, much less twice in a single class. Yes? she said.

Well, if girls are so bad, how are we supposed to pick one to spend so much time with? He sat back in his chair after he asked his question, and Andrew thought he was actually looking forward to the answer.

Miss Estherine nodded and began to pace back and forth. "It has been a very long time since someone has asked me a good question in class, Mr. Jenner, but this certainly qualifies. Let me see how I can put this, since it is something of an advanced topic.

"There will come a day for each of you when you feel a compulsion to serve the state in some way. Some of you may be feeling this now. It is a good feeling, a correct feeling. But you may not know of a way to find an outlet for this emotion. The first thing you may seek to do is enter into the service of the government, whether in administration or the military. But change is not easy for everyone, and those roles may require you to leave your home for months or years, depending upon the government’s need. So you will be left to face a decision, and that decision will likely lead you to bear the burden of tolerating one of these worthless creatures for the rest of your life, so that you may provide to the state that which it needs above all other things.

Which, class, brings me to the other imperative of the state: Every couple will produce a child and give it to the Great Provider for service in the military. Andrew wondered if he heard that right. Were they all being sent to be soldiers?

But Miss Esterine was still talking. It matters not if the first born is male or female, sick or well, it will be given, have no doubt. Each of you has an elder sibling who was given over, and you are welcome to ask your parents about it tonight when you go home. If for some unknowable reason your parents have any more children, these go to the Great Provider as well. She looked across the room slowly. He also looked around, but all he saw were faces that were as stunned as his own must appear.

Seemingly satisfied, she said, Very well, that will do; you may resume your normal schedules. No homework today, but there will be starting tomorrow.

Andrew, Frank and Jimmy hurried up the stairs with the rest of the class. None of them said a word. Andrew was torn between relief that he was not going to be sent away and the shock of knowing his parents had another child. Miss Tate’s words had stayed with him all through the lesson, and he was very confused by the different things he was being told. They were supposed to believe everything their teachers said, but now it seemed impossible.

Somehow when Andrew walked into his Early Class, Miss Estherine was already there. Once everyone found their seat, she said, Announcements?

The AT rose and walked to the front of the room. There are two announcements today. First, Miss Tate will not be in. Second, rather than reporting to her class, her afternoon students are to go directly to the Under Field. Morning students will have a substitute and should continue as usual.

Sitting at his desk in Literature, Andrew couldn’t even remember walking into Mr. Robiner’s room. But sure enough, there Mr. Robiner was in all his boring glory, writing on the board. So, class, in light of your early Integration Lessons, I will be making a change to the syllabus. We will not proceed to Culinary Delights of Cucumbers, but rather to this significant, if not advanced, work. He began handing stacks of books to the boys seated at the front of each row, who each took one and passed the rest back. Andrew read the title as he passed the one remaining book to the student behind him: Tolerating and Countering the Ways of Women. I expect you to have completed the first ten chapters by tomorrow and the rest by Thursday, Mr. Robinson said. But for now we will finish our discussion on last night’s material, the benefits of well-nourished soil.

Fitness was less dangerous than normal, though no less exhausting. They were deemed in no way ready to compete in the games and were forced to run for the entirety of the class. By the time he got to lunch, Andrew had taken so long to stumble through the halls on his sore legs that Frank had already finished eating. I wish Jimmy had the same lunch as us, Frank said as Andrew collapsed onto the bench. I’d have had someone to talk to while you were taking forever to get here.

Sorry, Brodsky really had it in for us today. Andrew winced. Good luck with him this afternoon.

Frank shook his head. I wish we’d never gotten these stupid games thrown at us. All it means is extra work.

I don’t know, Andrew said as he hastily pulled out his lunch. Integrating early might be worth it.

No way, Miss Estherine is going to make it miserable. Look at what we did this morning! That was stupid. She’s just an angry old hag. Besides, at this point, I’m almost afraid to work with any girls.

But that’s exactly what Miss Tate told us to be careful of! Andrew said, then looked around and lowered his voice. We’re supposed to keep an open mind.

Yeah, well, she’s not here today, is she? Maybe they tossed her out because she’s crazy.

Andrew didn’t like his attitude but for now couldn’t argue with him. He’d have to wait and see what happened in the next few days. Then he realized that in the rush of everything, he’d forgotten some of the biggest news of the day. Frank, I didn’t know my parents had another child, did you?

Frank shook his head. No way, Mom and Dad never mentioned it. Do you plan on asking tonight?

Andrew shrugged. I don’t know. I’m not sure how they’ll take it. Do you think they are upset about it?

Are you upset about it? Frank said. He appeared so unsure of himself that Andrew thought he looked like a different person.

I don’t know what to think, Andrew said. No one’s parents have any other children. I mean, I know now they must, but…

Frank nodded. I know what you mean.

Andrew hoped his parents could make him understand and didn’t want to talk about it anymore. Last night at dinner my parents talked to me for an hour about how important these games are. I just hope I can qualify for them.

Me too, Frank said.

They left lunch together and walked outside toward the Under Field. Batty Matty was standing guard and checking to make sure that only students from Miss Tate’s afternoon class were leaving. Andrew was sure she whispered, I have my eyes on you, as he walked by, but when he turned back, she was focused on the next student. He and Frank followed the dirt path around the High Field, down to the tree line and into the woods. A few minutes later, they arrived at the clearing and found Principal Rockner checking students’ names off a list on their arrival. The students were directed by Miss Estherine to take a seat in the stands, which must have been erected recently as Andrew had never seen them before. Up above, they saw Jimmy wave to them when no teachers were looking.

When they got to the top, he whispered to them, What do you think this is all about?

Andrew thought Jimmy looked as nervous as he himself felt. Maybe they found out what Miss Tate told us and want to tell us to forget it without any other students hearing about it, he said quietly.

Jimmy bit his lip, then shook his head and pointed across the field to the seats on the other side. Andrew saw what appeared to be the parents of all the students in the Health Class sitting there, and they looked very serious. None were talking to one another. Andrew could not think of a single time that his parents had been at school during the day.

Frank swallowed hard and said, This can’t be good.

Finally, after consulting some papers together, Miss Estherine took a seat in the front row of students, and Principal Rockner began to address everyone.

First, to the parents, thank you for coming. I know you are all very busy. I assure you this will not take long. Andrew thought the parents looked no happier than the students to be there. Second, to the students, this is a very important demonstration, so please pay careful attention. I’ll turn things over to Constable Jander now.

Andrew looked at Frank, who shrugged. Then he turned, to Jimmy, who was focused on what was happening below. A large covered wagon rolled out from behind the parents, pulled by a horse and driven by one of the deputies that worked for Constable Jander. Once it came to a stop, the Constable walked out of the back of the wagon and addressed the students. As he spoke, the deputy came around to the rear of the wagon, went inside, and then wheeled out something tall that was covered by a sheet.

Students of The Upper House, specifically those of Miss Tate’s afternoon Health Class, I would first like to congratulate you on your opportunity to compete in the Regional Games and on the early Integration Lessons. I know it is a great deal to ask, but I’m sure you will be up to the task and make Skenny proud. Andrew had never seen Constable Jander before, and he had certainly never seen anyone with as large a stomach. Usually someone so unhealthy would have been exiled from society and forced to join the Rags.

You are all here because one of you was brave enough to report what your teacher, Miss Tate, said to you in class yesterday. You will be happy to know you will not be subject to her rantings ever again, Constable Jander said.

He looked at Principal Rockner, who immediately rose and said, I would personally like to apologize to the students and their parents for allowing Miss Tate to have such a crucial role in your education. But I think you will understand how such an oversight could occur when the Constable has explained the extent of her lawlessness.

Andrew looked around and saw other students do the same. Who would have betrayed the beloved Miss Tate? Andrew’s throat felt very dry as he considered what could be beneath the sheet. He looked across at the parents and saw that while most looked angry, his own looked grim and worried.

Principal Rockner sat down again, and Constable Jander resumed. Four hundred years ago, witchcraft was banned in all areas of the SFS. I know we have a long history of being secluded from the greater works of our government, but we should not forget what the name SFS stands for - The Sons of Free Survivors. For centuries, we have been free, but if we allow this form of evil to roam in our midst, we will be free no more.

Then he turned, approached the covered, wheeled object, and dramatically pulled away the sheet. There were some yells of surprise from the students as everyone realized what they were seeing: Miss Tate bound to a short pole, which had been mounted on a rolling platform. Andrew saw no fear in her eyes, only a fierce, unmasked hatred. She turned to the students, and above her gag, he saw her eyes soften to what looked like either sadness or pity. The parents, other than his, seemed to lack any pity. He suspected they had all known this was coming.

Amy Tate, Constable Jander said, you are charged with one count of undermining the education of the youth and one count of witchcraft. Each of these are punishable by death. Do you understand?

Before she could answer, his deputy ran up to him with a piece of paper. Constable Jander read it, then said, It appears more charges were filed while we were in transit. In addition to the previous charges, the following have been added: teaching without a license; defying the Great Provider; providing a false excuse for an absence from work – yes, we found out where you were – and, finally, an additional thirty counts each of undermining the education of the youth and witchcraft. Constable Jander looked up from the piece of paper. "That makes it one count for every child who was in the room. Now, I will ask again, do