Page 38 of Crimson Shadows
“Carthage welcomes you, Miss Black,” Blackthorn says, a hint of a smile on his face.
Inhaling deeply, I make my way to the Carthage section. As I pass Corvus, he gives me a wink that does things to my soul.
I ignore him and focus intently on Blackthorn as he continues to house everyone.
When there are no students left, Blackthorn turns to us as the other Professors rise and separate into the various Houses.
“To our new Carthaginians,” Blackthorn begins, his gaze lingering on me for a moment, “I’m your Housemaster for the year. You have been chosen for your resilience, your adaptability, and your potential for leadership. Carthage valuesthose who can rise from adversity, who can rebuild and reinvent themselves.”
His words resonate deep within me, striking chords I didn’t even know existed.
“Carthaginians are the phoenixes of our world,” Blackthorn’s voice rings out, clear and strong. “You rise from the ashes of adversity, stronger and more determined than ever. Your resilience is your greatest strength.”
I stand a little straighter, feeling a spark of pride ignite in my chest.
“In Carthage, we value adaptability,” he continues. “The world is ever-changing, and those who can bend without breaking will always survive. You are the water that shapes the rock, the wind that redirects the flame.”
Memories of all the times I’ve had to adapt, to change myself to fit in or survive, flash through my mind. For once, I don’t feel shame at these memories, but a sense of accomplishment.
“Leadership in Carthage isn’t about ruling over others,” Blackthorn’s eyes seem to meet mine for a moment. “It’s about inspiring change, about seeing potential where others see ruin. You are the visionaries, the ones who can build empires from the ground up.”
I think of my mother, of how she’s always encouraged me to stand up for myself, to forge my own path. Maybe I have more leadership potential than I realised.
“Above all,” Blackthorn’s voice softens slightly, “Carthage values integrity. In a world of shifting loyalties and hidden agendas, you are the constants. Your word is your bond, your actions speak louder than any proclamation.”
A lump forms in my throat. Integrity. It’s something I’ve always strived for, even when it would have been easier to lie.
Maybe this is where I’m meant to be. Maybe here, surrounded by others who value the same things I do, I canfinally start to understand who I really am. In Carthage, perhaps I’ll find not just a house, but a home.
“Your house colour is blue,” Blackthorn continues, “representing the vast ocean that Carthage once ruled. Like the sea, you are expected to be deep, powerful, and capable of great change.”
As Blackthorn goes on, I glance around at my new housemates. There’s a mix of expressions - excitement, nervousness, pride. Corvus catches my eye and gives me his infuriating smirk.
Great. A whole year of dealing with him up close and personal.
But as I listen to Blackthorn describe the qualities of Carthage, I feel a sense of belonging.
“Now,” Blackthorn says with a slow smile. “Let’s kick this off with a quest! Who is up for the challenge?”
Corvus raises his hand, his eyes never leaving mine. I raise mine, and I frown for a moment, but I think this is all me. How will I ever know for sure, though?
But this is it. This is a new chapter in my life at MistHallow, and I’d better get used to it fast or be left behind.
19
ADELAIDE
As Blackthorn’seyes sweep over the raised hands, he nods approvingly. “Excellent. Group together now.”
My heart races as I move to stand beside Corvus. He leans in slightly as he whispers, “Ready for an adventure, Dollie?”
I suppress a shiver, not entirely sure if it’s from unease or excitement. “Born ready,” I mutter back, keeping my eyes fixed on Blackthorn as I dig around in my jeans pocket for a hair tie. I find one and scoop my hair up, twirling it around into a tight bun on top of my head with an ease born from years of ballet lessons as a child. I ignore Corvus’s eyes on me as I focus on Blackthorn.
The professor’s eyes twinkle with something that might be amusement as he addresses us. “Your quest is to retrieve the Chalice of Carthage from the Labyrinth of Shadows.”
A collective gasp ripples through the crowd. I have absolutely no clue what that means, but clearly, this is no small task.
“The Labyrinth of Shadows,” Blackthorn continues, “is a magical construct that shifts and changes. It’s designed to test your physical abilities, your mental fortitude and teamwork as well. The chalice is hidden at its heart.”
