Except for Jyx, it was silent in the barren lands. Away from the river, Mina couldn’t hear the wind, nor did she hear any of the usual night birds or crickets that she heard in the farmlands. We might as well be walking on the moon.

The weak light from the bulbs was enough to light the path, but it only spilled a little ways beyond—​the earth was blackened and dry. She saw no plants or trees, though maybe they grew farther away. She couldn’t imagine a place with no green whatsoever.

«You did say it was called the barren lands.»

I thought it was just a nickname for the Northwest Barrens.

«Ooh, can I have a nickname?»

I like your name. Pixit’s nice.

«You could call me Pixit, Master of the Skies. Or Pixit, Harnesser of Lightning. Or Pixit, King of Storms.»

Maybe we should train first?

«And then you’ll call me King of Storms?»

Sure.

«Yay!» He pranced next to her.

She knew he was trying to distract her from worrying, but it still worked. Further proof that Pixit was a match for her. Mina couldn’t help smiling at him. Whatever was going to happen, whether she succeeded or failed, at least she wouldn’t be doing it alone.

«Never alone again.»

Laying her hand on his back scales, she sent as much warm love at him as she could.

They followed the path to an iron archway—​the gate was open, and through it stood the three towers of the school. Light bulbs blazed, strung on wires from window to window, winding up the towers. She’d never seen so many. Mother would have said it was frivolous—​the farm had everything they needed, and they didn’t need electric baubles—​but Mina thought it was wonderful. Each tower ended in a metal pole that looked like an empty flagpole. Lightning rods, she thought. All the stones were black; the courtyard was black; the windows were dirty gray. Mina slowed, but Jyx marched past her, with Chauda trotting behind.

As they reached the massive door, decorated with a single silver lightning bolt, Mina looked for a door knocker or even just a handle. “How do we get inside?”

“Um.” Jyx examined the door. “Maybe it’s a test?”

Chauda flapped hard and rose into the air next to them.

“Chauda thinks we’re all supposed to fly in,” Jyx said.

Sounding panicked, Pixit said, «Oh no, I can’t lift you! I’m not strong enough! What if they don’t let us in? What if they send us back, and it’s my fault?»