Page 37 of Crimson Shadows
As I enter the Main Hall, all thoughts of my earlier encounter with Zephyr momentarily fade away. The sheer grandeur of the space takes my breath away.
The ceiling soars high above, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Intricate rib vaults stretch across the expanse, meeting at beautifully carved bosses. Stained glass windows line the walls, depicting scenes from various mythologies and supernatural histories. The gloomy sunlight filtering through them casts a kaleidoscope of colours across the polished stone floor.
Massive chandeliers hang from the ceiling, their crystals catching and refracting the light. But these aren’t ordinary light fixtures - the flames dancing in them seem to change colour, shifting through the spectrum in a hypnotic display.
At the far end of the hall stands a raised dais, upon which sits a long table. The professors are already seated there, their faces solemn. In the centre, Professor Blackthorn rises, his presence commanding immediate attention.
“Welcome, students of MistHallow,” his voice carries effortlessly across the hall. “Today, we gather for the preliminary House choosing ceremony.”
A hush falls over the crowd as Blackthorn continues.
“As some of you may know, and for the benefit of our new students, the House you are placed in changes every year. This is to encourage diversity, to challenge you to adapt, and to prevent stagnation.”
He gestures to four large banners hanging behind the dais, each bearing a different symbol and colour.
“Our four Houses are Carthage, represented by blue; Athens, in green; Rome, in red; and Troy, in gold. Each House values different qualities, and each will offer you unique opportunities for growth and learning.”
I lean forward, intrigued despite my lingering nerves.
“The choosing is not random, nor is it based solely on your own preferences,” Blackthorn explains. “It takes into account your inherent qualities, your potential, and what environment will best foster your growth this year.”
He pauses, his gaze sweeping across the gathered students. “When I call your name, please step forward. The House emblem that glows will be your home for this academic year.”
My heart starts to race as Blackthorn begins calling names. I watch as student after student steps forward, each greeted by a glowing emblem and a round of applause from their new housemates.
“Corvus Sanguine,” Blackthorn calls.
I tense, my gaze drawn to the enigmatic vampire.
Corvus saunters forward, looking unusually stiff. For a moment, nothing happens. Then, the blue emblem of Carthage begins to glow.
“Carthage welcomes you, Mr Sanguine,” Blackthorn announces.
As Corvus makes his way to the Carthage section, his gaze meets mine briefly but intently.
“Zephyr Nightshade.”
“Nightshade,” I whisper. “Pretty name for a pretty face.”
Zephyr moves with fluid grace, but I can see the tension in his shoulders. The green emblem of Athens lights up, and Zephyr’s face remains impassive as he joins his new housemates.
“Ignatius Emberkin.”
The firestarter steps forward, a grin on his face. The red emblem of Rome glows brightly, and Ignatius pumps his fist in apparent satisfaction.
“Zaiah Wishmaster.”
The djinn practically floats to the front, his expression one of detached amusement. The gold emblem of Troy shimmers to life, and Zaiah gives a theatrical bow before joining the Trojan ranks.
My palms are sweating now. It has to be my turn soon.
“Adelaide Black.”
All eyes turn to me, and I freeze for a moment, then force myself to move forward. The hall seems impossibly long, as I’m watched by hundreds of students and Professors as I make my way to the front. I reach the Professor and turn to face the emblems, my heart pounding so loudly I’m sure everyone can hear it.
What if none of them light up? What if I’m an outcast? Houseless? Will they banish me?
Nothing happens for what feels like an eternity. Then, slowly, the blue emblem of Carthage begins to glow.
