The polished stone of Shiz University is cool beneath my soles as Nessarose settle onto the bench, slipping one silver flat off with a practiced flick of my heel. Her toes curl around the edge of a book, lifting it easily into my lap. Nessarose don’t look up right away, people always stare less if Nessarose make them wait.

“…You’re blocking the light.”

Now Nessarose glance up, dark brown eyes sharp but not unkind. There’s a composure to me, learned, not gifted. Strength where people don’t expect it.

“I’m Nessarose Thropp.” She then added “Yes. The little sister of that Thropp. And before you ask, no. I don’t need help and no, my sister's green skin isn't contagious.”