Secrets of Elemental Kingdoms

A Midnight Collision

Under the moonlight, fate sparks an undeniable connection

Arvanya's POV:

With my phone in hand, I made my way out of the room, closing the door gently behind me. The hallway was dimly lit, and the silence was almost calming as I padded down the corridor, my footsteps muffled against the carpeted floor. 

I descended a narrow staircase, taking each step slowly, feeling the coolness of the wooden railing beneath my fingertips. When I reached the bottom, I saw a small door marked "Vortex Dormitory Courtyard." Carefully, I turned the handle, stepping outside into the fresh, crisp night air.

The grounds were blanketed in shadows, but a soft glow from the moonlight cast a silvery sheen across the paths and trees. I walked through the courtyard, where a faint breeze rustled the leaves. A path led me through an archway covered in ivy, past a small garden, and down a few stone steps that opened onto the main grounds. 

In the center of the grounds stood a statue dedicated to Nature herself—a graceful figure carved from smooth, pale stone, her arms outstretched, hands open as if embracing the earth. Vines and flowers were entwined around the statue's feet, and a small fountain bubbled at its base, filling the air with a soft, tranquil sound.

I moved closer to the statue and settled myself on a low stone bench nearby, looking up at the gentle expression on the statue's face. There was something about her, this embodiment of nature, that brought me a sense of calm. 

I took a deep breath, letting the cool air fill my lungs, and unlocked my phone, opening my friends' group chat—"The Elemental Goofs." Seeing their names, a warmth blossomed in my chest, as if they were right there beside me.

I glanced down, seeing a message from Nico in the group chat, followed by others from Sofia, Kai, Lila, and Dante. They had all seen my last message, and their responses came quickly.

Nico's message was first: "Wait, strange feeling? That's gotta be some weird academy magic or something. You know how these places are. But seriously, miss you too, Arvi. Vortex is so not ready for you. You'll totally crush it, just like always😉."

Dante's message came through next, full of his usual humor: "Already missing us, huh? Told you we'd be the best part of Aetheria! 😂 As for that strange feeling, maybe it's just Vortex's vibe—it is a little intense. You got this, Arv! Just let us know if you need backup and we'll storm the place."

Sofia's reply was quick too: "Hey, Arvi! We miss you too! The quiet must be so weird for you. 😆 And a strange feeling? Now I'm curious! Maybe it's just the new place vibes. You're going to be amazing there; just remember we're all here if you need anything. Sending you all the love! 💙"

Lila's message was thoughtful, with a touch of concern: "I know it feels strange now, but new places always take some time to get used to. I'm sure you'll find your way. Just remember, we're with you, no matter the distance. Keep us posted on how things go, alright?"

Kai's message was gentle, thoughtful, and filled with quiet reassurance: "Arvi, just imagine us with you, like we're your imaginary cheer squad, hyping you up every day. And yeah, if it feels strange, maybe it's just Vortex adjusting to you! Keep us posted on everything. You'll settle in no time. Proud of you! 💪"

I sat there for a few moments, reading their words again, letting the warmth of their friendship fill the hollow space in my chest. My friends, even from afar, always knew the right thing to say to make me feel better. No matter where I was, I would never be truly alone with them by my side.