P R O L O G U E
Summer was ending. A cool breeze was blowing through the open window as Amelaie Greengrass scrubbed dishes in the kitchen sink. The television was on in the next room, though Amelaie knew no one was watching it. The soft sound of a sit-com laugh track lulled Amelaie into a kind of trance as she washed the last dish of the summer.
"Billie's going to bed," Mrs. Greengrass said softly, breaking the gentle monotony, "you ought to say goodnight. You have a long trip to London in the morning. You'll be gone before Billie wakes up."
Amelaie nodded gently, and set the wet dish down on the drying tray.
As Amelaie stood in the doorway, Mr. Greengrass finished reading a section of The Adventures of Martin Miggs, the Mad Muggle aloud to young Billie. Billie giggled furiously, and begged her father to continue.
"It's time for bed now, Billie," Mr. Greengrass said. She pouted, then caught sight of Amelaie.
"Hey, Billie," Amelaie said with a gentle smile.
Billie was only five years old. She didn't yet understand the truth about Amelaie's schooling. Amelaie suspected it was best that way.
Mr. Greengrass left the two girls alone for Amelaie to say goodbye, but even with no adults present, Amelaie couldn't seem to find a think to say. She didn't want to say goodbye to Billie. It would hurt her too much. So she just sat at the foot of the bed, and began to sing a lullaby. Billie was soon asleep, and Amelaie was crying dry tears.
"Are you sure you want to go back?"
Mrs. Greengrass was standing at the door.
"Of course I'm sure," Amelaie said composing herself.
"I know you like it, but... I'd like having you around the house you know?"
"This is something I have to do mum. I was born for this."
"I know."
"I hope Billie can understand it... someday."
"Me too. She misses you, you know?"
"Yes."
"Well, I'm sure she'll get over it."
"Yes, I'm sure. I'd best go pack. Long trip to London..."