Chapter 5 : Refuge in Nighthaven

As Nighthaven came into view, its towering spires and sprawling grounds bathed in golden light. The castle itself seemed alive, the shimmering enchantments woven into its very stone casting a faint, comforting glow. To Zoe, it was unlike anything she had ever seen - a place steeped in both history and magic, offering the promise of sanctuary.

Sara let out a sigh of relief beside her. “We made it,” she murmured, her voice a mix of exhaustion and awe.

Dominic, standing tall despite the weariness etched into his features, gave Zoe a reassuring smile. “Welcome to Nighthaven,” he said, gesturing toward the massive gates. “It’s not much, but it’s home.”

“Not much?” Zoe raised an eyebrow, the faintest hint of amusement breaking through her tension. “It’s a literal castle, Dominic.”

He grinned. “Okay, fine. It’s a little impressive.”

As they crossed the threshold into the courtyard, Zoe couldn’t help but notice the intricate carvings lining the archway - symbols of protection and power, their meanings just out of reach. The air inside the walls felt different, heavy with magic and history. She exhaled slowly, trying to let some of the weight on her chest dissipate.

The towering gates of Nighthaven Academy creaked open, revealing an imposing structure of dark stone that seemed both ancient and alive with energy. The castle loomed against the twilight sky, its spires piercing the clouds, but the glow of its lanterns and the hum of life within gave it a warmth that made Zoe’s tense shoulders relax - just a little.

The group stepped through the threshold, their boots echoing on the polished stone floors. Despite the ache of loss gnawing at her, Zoe couldn’t help but glance around in awe. The sheer grandeur of the place was unlike anything she had seen before - banners with intricate sigils hung from the rafters, their meanings foreign to her, and students bustled about, their movements purposeful yet welcoming.

“Follow me.”

The voice was firm, authoritative yet kind. Zoe turned to see a woman descending a grand staircase. She was tall, her deep green robes embroidered with symbols that glowed faintly in the light. Her black hair was streaked with silver, framing a face that was equal parts regal and approachable.

“I am Ellara,” she said as she reached them, her sharp gaze sweeping over Zoe, Sara, Dominic, and Nikola. “I oversee Nighthaven’s affairs and the wellbeing of its students. You must be the ones we were told to expect.”

Her eyes lingered on Zoe for a moment longer than the others, and Zoe instinctively straightened. “Yes, ma’am. I’m..”

“Zoe Reed,” Ellara finished for her, her voice softening. “And these are your friends. Sara, Dominic, and Nikola.” She nodded at each of them in turn before her expression grew somber. “We heard what happened. I am deeply sorry for your loss.”

Zoe swallowed hard, the lump in her throat threatening to choke her. The image of her parents’ lifeless forms flashed in her mind, and her fists clenched at her sides. “Thank you,” she managed to say, her voice barely above a whisper.

Ellara’s expression didn’t falter, but her tone gained a note of steel. “The attack on your family is a tragedy, one that underscores why Nighthaven exists. You are safe here, Zoe. All of you are. And we will ensure you have everything you need to recover and prepare for what lies ahead.”

Dominic stepped forward, his voice edged with gratitude and determination. “We’re grateful, Ellara. Truly. We didn’t know where else to go.”

“You made the right choice,” Ellara said firmly. She glanced at Zoe again, her gaze softening. “Zoe, I sense great strength in you, even in your grief. Hold onto that. It will guide you in the days to come.”

Zoe nodded stiffly, unsure how to respond.

“Now,” Ellara continued, her tone lightening, “you’ve all had a long journey. I’ll have someone show you to your quarters shortly, but first, you should eat. The dining hall is just through there.” She gestured to a set of double doors at the end of the corridor. “There’s plenty of food, and you’ll find the students here are welcoming.”

The mention of food made Zoe’s stomach rumble, and she realized just how exhausted and hungry she was.

Ellara noticed the flicker of hesitation on Zoe’s face and stepped closer. “It’s a lot to take in, I know. But you’re safe now. Take it one step at a time.”

With a faint smile, Ellara motioned for them to follow her. As they approached the dining hall, the warm glow of candlelight spilled into the corridor, accompanied by the hum of conversation and the clatter of utensils.

“Zoe, Sara, Dominic and Nikola,” Ellara said as they reached the doors, “your quarters will be prepared soon. In the meantime, eat, rest and know that you’re not alone here.”

With that, Ellara turned and disappeared back into the bustling halls of the academy, leaving the four of them standing at the entrance to the dining hall.

Dominic nudged Zoe lightly. “Come on. Let’s see what this place has to offer.”

Zoe hesitated for a moment before nodding, stepping into the warmth of the dining hall with her companions at her side.