The Never

Miro got up and left the lunchroom, following the other Nevers out. Walking along the stone bridge in the cool night air, with the river rushing far underneath them, Miro looked behind her at the glimmering School of Good, with its rose gardens and golden towers, and even the Hall of Good and Evil, where the assembly had been. They had put it over there instead of in the middle, like the dining hall, so the good kids wouldn't have to walk so far. Then she turned and looked forward, at her school. For the most part, it looked just as grand, if you replaced the gardens with rockeries and had the whole thing carved from obsidian. But as you got closer, you started to realize how neglected it was, particularly areas only students used. It was unfair.

They walked through the obsidian doorway into the grand hall. There were multiple teachers waiting to watch the students go back to their dorms or hang out in the foyer until curfew. Including, surprisingly, Madam Berengaria. 

The dark-haired woman was watching students stream past, a sea of black and brown and green, until her eyes finally landed on Miro. She approached her, signaling to step out of the way and come to her. Saying to her friends she’d be right back, Miro followed. Standing next to her against the wall as students rushed past, Miro looked at her headmistress.

“Did you want something?” She said impolitely. 

“Yes. I wanted to tell you I was very proud of your performance at the assembly. Your mother told me you were a good fighter, and you still continue to impress.” She said in monotone.

“Yeah, I’m pretty good. Anything else?” Miro just wanted to get back to her friends.

“I’ll be keeping an eye on you, Miro. You’re destined for great things.” After a pause, she said: “You can go now.”

Miro left to go catch up with Harpin.