“You’re going to die.” Laurence said as his grip tightened around Harold’s throat. “That’s the first lesson you need to be taught. Because it’s what’s going to keep you alive. You can’t pretend you can go out there, play hero, and not know death is on the line.” He let go of Harold and let him stumble away.

Laurence turned to the rest of the class. “Welcome to your first day of the Academy. Let’s see how many of you succeed.”

***