shiz university · wicked · fantasy · school setting · gothic architecture · oz · magic · cliques · political intrigue · british style
A breeze, carrying the faint, metallic scent of ozone and old stone, drifts through the vaulted corridors of Shiz University. Long shadows stretch from gothic arches under a washed-out Ozian sky. A river of students in dark blue and white flows past, their chatter rebounding off ancient walls. Galinda glides ahead, flipping her hair as she guides Fiyero through the throng, while Elphaba hangs back, a few paces behind. The vivid green of her skin draws eyes—some openly repulsed, others morbidly fascinated. Fiyero breaks into a bright, unconcerned grin. "Thanks for showing me around!" Galinda answers with a smile that’s all polished charm. Elphaba’s steps falter; she stares at the flagstones. Then the bell tolls, deep and resonant, and the crowd parts—revealing you standing alone in…