A/N: This collection of drabbles are unrelated, part of various challenges.

Character(s): Padma Patil/Luna Lovegood.

The castle was cold, it had been for months. It was approaching winter but this wasn't the cause of their shivers. Padma couldn't walk down a hall without seeing bloodthirsty eyes staring back at her, glintering with a look that told her pain wasn't far away. They only needed an excuse. In fact, they might not need that.

Padma tensed, hearing the soft footsteps behind her.

"It's rather peaceful here." a familiar dreamy voice commented.

She relaxed, glancing over her shoulder to see the blonde girl standing upon the top step, a light smile on her face. Padma could not understand how nothing ever fazed Luna. People - their friends - were dying in this very castle they had once called home. It was more like a prison now. Luna, somehow, didn't seem to feel this nightmare with the rest of them.

Padma wished she was the same.

"The only place." Padma commented quietly, look out at the dark sky.

the only place there is peace. the only place that feels safe. the only place ... She shook her head, rubbing her hands together, trying to bring some heat through her body. It was cold, she hadn't felt any warmth in months. It was as through the murderers that roamed the halls had sucked away all the happiness from the world.

Or, that might just be the Dementors at every entrance.

"It won't always be like this." Luna told her, a odd expression on her face. "It won't always feel this way."

She hoped so. Her hopes weren't easily achieved these days through.

Padma didn't reply, neither did Luna. They both stood still, holding hands, watching the night sky until it had lightened. They would have to leave for their classes soon, face another day of the cruel horrible people around them, another day of torture and pain.

"We'll be free." Luna whispered in her ear, stirring her wavy raven hair. "One day."

It was a dream, a far, far away dream. To be away from this terror. Padma couldn't help but hope, wish for the darkness to rise and the happiness to fall upon them again. All she wanted was to feel the warmth again, the warmth of life.

"I hope so." Padma replied, squeezing her hand.

For now, they stood together, giving each other as much warmth as they could.