Spinning the Wheel
Disclaimers: Harry Potter and the associated universe is owned by J.K. Rowling. I am merely borrowing the people and places for a short while.
Inspirations: A cold winter's night and the song "Dark Waltz" by Hayley Westenra.
Evening was captured in a kaleidoscope, ever moving and changing, its dark beauty wheeling overhead as simple creatures gazed up at the sky. Cold nipped at exposed cheeks and noses, but could not distract from the view. Glittering gems slowly appeared in the velvet tapestry, wisps of clouds interrupting the deepening black. Even the exhalation of Harry's breath, visible in the cold air, did not end the reverie.
It was rare he could be captivated by the natural panorama, his thoughts of nothing. The weight of destiny interlinked with a warlord of the worst sort will cause more than a bit of trepidation and contemplation. Winter it might be, but snow was not present. The discolored grass protested its treatment, frosted and stiff, as feet passed over the once green and soft stalks.
A person could think himself insignificant in view of the star-studded sky, deep and almost unfathomable despite the work of astronomers and physicists. Lost in the incomparable view, Harry did not hear the crunch of footsteps approaching. It was not until warm breath caressed his neck as an arm snaked around his waist that the Gryffindor started.
Moonlight highlighted the man next to him, features striking in the sun were rendered more ethereal under the gentle touch of the moon. His head tilted back, Harry's companion scanned the sky above for what absorbed the young man beside him.
"Contemplating the mysteries of the universe," he offered, eyes still on the view above.
"Something like that," Harry replied, seeing starlight reflected in the mercurial eyes of the man with the possessive arm around him.
"Such thinking may strain that Gryffindor mind of yours. Leave the philosophical exchanges to those that can comprehend such tremendous issues," his companion spoke, pale eyes meeting night-darkened jade.
"Beauty does not need to be discussed, merely appreciated with all one's being," Harry countered.
The other man tilted his head, argent hair glittering in the moonlight, "Maybe there is more than reckless bravery to you, Potter. However, such appreciation can be made without the freezing of necessary appendages."
Harry chuckled as the arm around him tightened, "The chill only adds to the pleasure."
"You are a perverse creature," his companion said fondly. "Still, I prefer a fireside seat with a cup of tea. Will you join me?"
"With such a kind invitation, how could I refuse? As I recall, firelight has its own virtues," the dark-haired man commented.
"So many more possibilities than the outdoors," his companion smiled. "Come, the Slytherin common room will be empty at this hour and you can warm me up better than tea."
Harry smiled his reply, his feet guided by the firm arm around his waist.
With one last glance at the stars slowly moving overhead, Harry gazed at his companion who carried his own beauty captured in moonlight-colored hair and reflected in starry crystalline eyes.