Holy Cow!
Waaaay too long since I was last here!
Well, I've got an excuse, I swear! Being the father of two girls under four is far more time consuming than I thought it would ever be. Anyway, add to this the annoying habit of plot bunnies to pop up in my head, distracting me from this story and you have it.
BUT, here is a new chapter. Granted it is a bit of a filler, but it explores a few dynamics between characters.
Skipping the small talk, on with the story. The next chapter should be up very soon. End of the week, I promise!
Of Halls, homes and gifts
It was beginning to set some kind of tradition. After the Yule Ball, like the previous year, rumours began to fly in every direction, rumours that Ian was easily catching, even if he hadn't launched any of them.
The main outcome of the party was that love life in the school was a changing thing. Ian heard from Terry that many couples had started during the Ball in the Gryffindor Tower. And a few had ended, actually.
Ian was quite aware of what was going one with the Ravenclaw boys and girls. Since he had no serious friend in Hufflepuff, he didn't pay that much attention to their romances, and honestly Slytherins could have been going at it like rabbits that he wouldn't have given a damn. But Ian was really interested in knowing what was going on for his friends of Gryffindor.
The biggest news in the lions' tower was of course, that Kalindra Johnson and Rob Drakefang were now together. That came as no surprise for Ian, since he had known for a long time that Kalindra was into Rob and vice versa. And of course, he had witnessed, like many of the Ball attendants, the first kiss of the couple.
Rumours were spreading on Thierry and Mandy. But Ian soon learned that the two of them weren't acting as if they were closer after that Ball.
There was also something that Terry had noticed. Jennifer Windhill and Will Tyler were acting a little awkwardly toward each other. They wouldn't speak of it, but there was something fishy between them.
Of course, there was more important than the love life of students. Ian had caught the conversation between Professor Potter and Kenneth, who had announced that, again, Aria Entwistle had made an appearance on the grounds. Professor Potter had been wondering why the mysterious twin had turned to Kenneth and Thierry. That suggested some link between the two young boys. First, The Unicorn allowing contact to Thierry and Kenneth and now Aria was speaking directly to the young students. Ian found the idea fascinating, but he was still puzzled by the meaning of all of this.
He hadn't much time to thinking about what had happened. The Christmas Break was already upon the School. And soon, most of the students would be leaving the castle gates and head for Hogsmeade Station in carriages.
Fewer students were staying in the castle, this year. Julie was among them, for obvious security reasons. Ian had heard from Jennifer that her family would visit the castle around Christmas to be with her. Ian was glad that the French girl wouldn't be alone for the holiday.
Ian himself was due to Hogsmeade in a few hours, where his mother would meet him, along with his brother and Chris Wagner, who had been invited to share their Christmas. Ian had been surprised when Ewan had asked his parents if Chris could attend the family celebration, but it seemed Chris' family was out of the country for the entire holiday and they wouldn't be able to return. Besides, the Wagners weren't that much into Christmas.
Ian shut down his trunk, thinking about that notion. He threw a look at Kieran, who was also staying behind, as she always did. She was among those wizards who didn't celebrate Christmas, or at least, didn't make a huge thing out of it. Some Wizarding families weren't keen the Christian Celebrations, due to their culture. Druidic and, for lack of a better term, 'pagan' folks had often kept a deeper connection with their ancestral tradition than in the muggle world. Most muggle born did celebrate Christmas. Most pureblood families had embraced it, but a minority didn't care. They didn't reject it or oppose it, but they made no fuss about it, and for the children of these families, Christmas was a time of year when they would get presents, but only so that they wouldn't feel cheated, compared to their friends. Ian knew Kieran cared little about gifts, but that each Christmas, she would be getting a huge bunch of new books, which was a particular treat for her.
If Ian didn't mind Chris tagging along for Christmas at the Malcolms', it did make him feel bad about Kieran staying behind, but it couldn't be worked out. Last year, Ian had stayed behind, exceptionally, and Kieran being around had been a great source of comfort, while he was going through some real hard time with his powers. So he was feeling a little guilty to leave her alone. And he realised that he would miss her.
"Are you sure you don't want to come over for Christmas? I'm sure if I bug my Mum enough, she'll manage to set it up," he asked her one more time.
"You're really nice, Ian," said Kieran, shaking her head, "but you know we don't throw parties for Christmas. My Parents will send me gifts, but really it's nothing for me. Besides, I have work to do."
"Work?" asked Ian.
"With Professor Flitwick," précised Kieran. "Some ideas for a new spell."
"Oh, that's for the fun of it, then," said Ian sarcastically.
"Ian, I'll be okay, I promise," said Kieran, laughing.
"Fine," said Ian. "But next year, you come over for Christmas, and that is not open for discussion. Am I clear?"
Kieran gave him a radiant smile.
"Crystal clear," she said.
"Good," said Ian, starting to levitate his trunk out of the dorm room.
"Your Mum comes to pick you up?" she asked.
"In Hogsmeade," said Ian. "It's easier for her to come from her working place."
"Say hello for me," said Kieran. "And Happy Christmas."
"And you have a good holiday, K," said Ian, smiling.
Less than an hour later, Ian was taking a seat with his brother and Chris Wagner in the Three Broomsticks. Outside the whole place was covered in snow. They were chilling, but the warmth of the roaring fire had soon comforted them.
Chris was quite excited.
"This is my first Christmas in England," he told Ian. "I'm enjoying the novelty."
"Well, that's usually cool," said Ewan, smiling. "All the family will be there. They're fun, and I have an Irish cousin which is positively gorgeous. You have to meet her."
"Ewan, Moira is fifteen," said Ian, patiently. "She doesn't care for half-pints like you and your friend."
"Do not listen to him, Chris," said Ewan. "He's just being jealous because girls are more interested in me than in him in his first year."
"Jealous?" said Ian. "On what planet are you living, Ewan?"
They laughed at that. Then Ian realised that the idea he was looking for since he had begun to search for Christmas gifts for his friends, was right under his nose, here in Hogsmeade.
"Ewan, can I trust you for a moment?" he asked.
"For what?"
"For staying here, without getting into trouble, with Chris, while I get a last Christmas Gift."
"For me?" asked Ewan eagerly.
"I already have your present," said Ian, shaking his head.
"Oh," said Ewan, pouting, "Then I can't make any promises."
"Ewan," said Ian on a patient tone.
"Alright, alright! Staying here, no getting into trouble. I can do that. Just don't be too long," said Ewan, groaning.
"I won't," promised Ian, getting up.
He rushed out of the tavern and ran across the snowy streets of Hogsmeade. He knew exactly where to go to get the perfect present for Kieran.
He pushed the door of the shop, making a small bell ring. Ian was relieved that the shop was open.
And again he was plunged in the fascinating atmosphere of the shop he had seen in the first Hogsmeade week end.
"Well, I wasn't expecting to see you again that soon," said the witch holding the shop. "I thought that I would have to wait for one year or two."
Ian turned surprised eyes to Miss Flora Daffodil. The slender witch smiled.
"Well…" said Ian, surprised to be recognized.
"Don't be surprised," said Miss Daffodil, grinning. "I have a perfect memory for faces. It's a thing I have. So what help can I be?"
"It's for a Christmas gift," said Ian.
"Oh, I see," said the witch, looking slightly disappointed. "Something for your mother, then. I knew I couldn't expect that gift to be for a young lady."
She smiled.
"But actually it is," said Ian, feeling very confident in this woman.
"Really? Excellent," said Miss Daffodil. "I'll show you what I have in store."
Minutes later, Ian was walking back to the Three Broomsticks, a shockproof parcel carried under his arm. The parcel was wrapped in green papers. He entered the tavern and spotted Ewan and Chris still sitting right where he had left them. Except they were talking with Miss Rosmerta. Ian joined them, frowning.
"Did they get into trouble?" he asked the owner.
"Not at all, Ian, don't worry," said Rosmerta, smiling.
The Innkeeper and Ian had known each other even before he had gotten to Hogwarts. His visits to Hogsmeade with his Mum had made him familiar with the lady. And since he had been allowed in the village on the school outings, he had learned to enjoy her conversation. She was witty and funny.
"They told me they were with you. They're adorable little kids," commented Rosmerta.
"Yeah, that depends," said Ian, with a twisted smile.
He took a look at the two Butterbeers that were now on the table.
"I guess this is the reason they were so nice. You must have offered those," he said.
Ewan and Chris threw him an innocent look. Rosmerta smiled only wider.
"As I always do for new customers, Ian, you know that," said Rosmerta.
"Right," said Ian, taking back his seat. "At least, this one didn't get up to his usual antics," he said, nodding his head toward his little brother.
"Oh, it can't be that bad, can it?" asked Rosmerta.
"Give him time," said Ian. "By the time he's of age to come here in the school year, he'll be infamous enough that you will have heard of him."
"Infamous?" protested Ewan. "Infamous! Ian, I'll be a legend!"
The table laughed at that, and Rosmerta left them to their drinks. Minutes later, his mother Neve was doing her entry in the three Broomsticks, and they all headed home.
Kenneth was reading a reference book in preparation of an essay in History of Magic that was due for the start of next term. Pausing to look around, he had a smile.
It was nice to have a change of scenery, actually. While the Library of Hogwarts was a nice place to study in, Kenneth did like the cosy atmosphere of Lionheart's Hall library. It felt more like home, obviously, but it also felt like it held less expectations. One could come here to simply enjoy pass the time, whether in Hogwarts, Madam Pince wouldn't allow slackers to remain among her precious books.
This was the first time in years that Kenneth was spending Christmas in the Hall. Bohor had insisted. Something to do with a tantrum thrown by Blanchefleur. Kenneth smiled at the antics of his nine year old cousin and the fact she had her father, mother, and immediate family wrapped around her little finger.
The Hall was always nice at this time of year. 'Bohor's tribe' as they were known in the Clan, had settled in for Christmas. It was a treat to be able to spend time with his young cousins. They were a lot of fun.
And he was spending most of his time getting ahead in his homework. So that's why at this early hour of the afternoon, he was in the Library, bent over one book of History, to work on an essay for Binns. A really boring subject, if you asked him, but he had no choice but to work on it.
"The Unification of the Helvetic Confederation of Wizards?" said a voice above him. "That seems fascinating."
Kenneth smiled at the familiar voice.
"Fascinating, indeed," he said, raising his eyes to his cousin. "What are you doing here?"
"Paying a visit to the little lion," said Gareth, grinning. "Heard you were home for Christmas. So, what's up?"
Kenneth stood up and hugged his cousin.
"Blanchefleur wanted me around, apparently," he said.
"And what Blanchefleur wants is still law, I guess," laughed Gareth. "That girl is a real domestic tyrant. She'll set Hogwarts upside down, I bet."
"I'm pretty sure she will," said Kenneth.
"Come on," said Gareth. "Can we get out of here? Libraries always make me think of studies…" he added with a feint shiver.
Kenneth laughed and followed him out. The pressure to finish his homework for Binns wasn't that great, anyway.
A little later, they had settled in the salon. It was a nicely decorated room, with a roaring fire at the centre of the back wall. Bookshelves were still around, but they held more fun books than serious material. There was a chess set, a piano, for both Old Gwenever, Blanchefleur and Holly, Bohor's wife. Couches and armchairs completed the furniture, with a few small tables to set the tea or any other drink.
Kenneth and his cousin spoke about a lot of things, from the Quidditch results to Kenneth's grades. Gareth was impressed by his cousin's level, paying a special interest in his defence sessions with Professor Potter.
Gareth had brought Kenneth a present for Christmas, and had dismissed Kenneth's apology for not having gotten anything for him yet. He had opened the box, and discovered a very beautiful dagger, decorated with taste and which looked quite beautiful. Gareth explained Kenneth he had gotten it in Spain, during one travel there. It was a symbol of power of a family of Wandmasters, the Aguirre. There was an incantation with the dagger, which made it a signature for the skilled wizard, according to Gareth. Kenneth was completely stunned by the beauty of the object. But soon, Gareth dismissed his enthusiast thanks and went on with their conversation, bringing it back to school.
Kenneth was surprised when Gareth did manage to remember the name of all his friends and asked about each of them, paying a special attention to Thierry and Kalindra.
But the main subject Gareth wanted to bring up was girls, of course. And that was a subject about which Kenneth wished to stay silent as a tomb. The Ball's events were too fresh and confusing in his head for him to feel ready to speak about it. So he avoided it
"So, you just decided to drop by?" he asked finally. "Just like that?"
"More or less," said Gareth, smiling. "I had a report to file in Gringotts, and I heard you would be around, so I decided to show up and say hello."
"I'm glad you did," said Kenneth. "Have you seen Dad, yet?"
"Oh, I did," said Gareth. "I chose to stay clear from what he was doing. I wouldn't want to spoil dinner. He's making his special, for tonight apparently."
"Yeah," chuckled Kenneth, knowing why his father had been tasked with preparing his personal recipe of stew. "Another request from…"
"Blanchefleur," Gareth finished with a smile. "I guessed so. He does look good. Still stubborn and stuck in his noble streak of his… He tried to convince me to try and patch up things with Father, again."
"Can't blame him for trying, can you?" said Kenneth. "After all, you and your father were very close, once. We all think this is a big waste that you two are growing apart this way."
"His decision, not mine," said Gareth, a little sullenly. "He chose to push me away rather than understand me. I just couldn't feel at ease in that guise of heroes you're all trying so hard to fit in."
"This isn't only about this, Gareth," said Kenneth. "You have chosen the life of mercenary. It goes against all of our values."
"You still talk to me," said Gareth.
"I'm not your father," said Kenneth, shrugging. "Your choice of profession doesn't change the fact you're my cousin. But for Bedevere, it's like facing a failure in his way to educate you. Can't you understand his position? You, his son, have chosen to reject all the values he believes in so much. And it doesn't mean I approve, either."
"You think I'm abusing of my gifts?" said Gareth, raising an eyebrow.
"I think you're in a dangerous position, where your gifts could be misused," said Kenneth, seriously.
"I don't believe it!" said Gareth, laughing. "Since when did you become so wise?"
"I admit I'm partly quoting Dad, here, but I share the idea," said Kenneth.
"So you say I was wrong?" said Gareth, his temper rising slightly.
"I guess you both were wrong," said Kenneth. "But you should try to make things up."
"Really? Did he try?" objected Gareth.
"This is no reason to give up," said Kenneth. "I'm sure your father loves you, Gareth."
"You don't know that much, Kenneth," said Gareth, standing up and starting to pace the room. "He has always been incomprehensive to me. He had never supported me in anything I was doing. I don't know if he really misses me. I really don't know if he cares at all, in fact."
"Gareth…" said Kenneth.
"No, Little lion," said Gareth. "You can't understand what's going on between us, okay? So don't try. In fact, I can't stay too long. I've got to go."
"Gareth," said Kenneth, standing up, too. "I didn't want to upset you."
Gareth shook his head gently.
"You didn't," he said, smiling. "But I really need to go. It was nice to see you anyway. Happy Christmas."
"You too. You know you're welcome here anytime," said Kenneth.
Gareth nodded, punched his cousin's shoulder playfully, and walked out of the salon. Kenneth looked at him go away, sighing deeply. He couldn't help but feel sorry for this crisis Gareth was going through with his father.
He reclined back in his armchair and contemplated the dancing of the fire. He got lost in his thoughts so long that when he jerked out of it, it was time to dinner.
Five days before Christmas, Harry was done with his gifts shopping, which was a miracle in itself. It wasn't that he forgot or didn't care, but he did tend to procrastinate. Not this year, though. It could be explained, perhaps, by the fact that the prospect of Christmas shopping held more appeal than listening to yet another round of argument between Ginny, Molly, and what Harry had ended up calling "the Potter wedding committee". Decoration, candles, flowers, choice of food, everything was a matter of debate. If Molly was expected to have her say in things, and therefore was bound to argue with her daughter, Harry had been floored when Hermione and the other bridesmaid had joined the strife. He had safely elected to stay clear of the whole thing. He had expected outrage at this, but, as he had learned, when it came to wedding, the groom's opinion… didn't matter. He was supposed to show up, wear what he was told, say what he was told and do what he was told.
So he had fled, and the time he had gotten from this had allowed him to find all the gifts he had intended to buy.
It also had given him the opportunity to accept an invitation he had received after the Ball. The visit was overdue, in fact, but he had never gotten the chance to finally pay it.
So, on that crisp December morning, he had left the Castle, gone to Hogsmeade, and grabbed a Floo transport to a massive entrance hall that was impressive.
Harry had never set foot in Lionheart Hall and he had certainly never expected it to be that big. He had kept in touch with Lancelot through letters, though their frequency had varied. As much as he could, Harry had tried to remain in contact with all the people involved in the core of the Order during the war, even with that nuisance of Mundungus Fletcher. While his correspondence with Dedalus Diggle had been pretty regular and amusing, his letters to Lancelot had been more awkward and Harry hadn't been sure Lancelot wanted to be reminded of Sarah's death on a regular basis. Now that Kenneth was his student, Harry felt more assured and the invitation from Lancelot hadn't been a real surprise.
As he was looking around, recovering from the floo travel, Harry saw Lancelot come to greet him, accompanied by a larger, stockier man, who still bore a striking resemblance to him.
"Welcome to Lionheart Hall, Harry," said Lancelot, offering his hand. "It is good to see you again."
"It's good to see you, too," replied Harry.
"May I introduce my brother, Bohor? Bohor, this is Harry Potter," said Lancelot.
"As if you really needed to say it, Lance," said the other man, with a booming laugh, while offering his hand. "It's not like I've not been his biggest fan in the house."
Harry's expression must have shown his surprise, for Bohor grinned only wider.
"You should have heard me, any time the Falcons won a game," said the huge man, good-naturedly. "I managed to catch quite a lot of your games in the stadiums, too. Finest flying I ever saw, really."
Harry liked how he had basically swept all the nonsense about Harry being some kind of saviour under the carpet with a few casual remarks. This, coming from a family who were up there with the Weasleys when it came to humility, felt nice.
Harry looked around again, showing his appreciation.
"This is quite the place you have, here," he said.
"Oh, we can't claim the whole of it," said Lancelot. "This is the Clan's home. Any member of the family can visit and stay in Lionheart Hall. We all have our own places, like my flat in London. We usually gather here for the Holidays. Well, that is, except for Bohor, of course."
"I have a pretty large family," said Bohor, at Harry's interrogating look. "Eight children, including triplets. And I also take care of one of our great Aunts, so my family has settled here permanently."
"Eight children? Any of them heading to Hogwarts?" asked Harry, amused that his teacher side would manifest immediately.
"Soon," said Bohor. "My eldest daughter is nine. She's pretty put out that Kenneth will be gone by the time she arrives."
"Blanchefleur is very fond of her cousin," said Lancelot, "which is actually the reason why so few people are here, this Christmas."
Harry expressed his puzzlement at that.
"We are a family of tradition and ritual," said Lancelot. "We don't stand much for formality, but we do keep to a number of rules. Kenneth is a confirmed Wandmaster, by the deeds he accomplished last year. The tradition dictates that until he is of age, he cannot be recognized formally by the entire clan. So, he can't be here with the whole family, until he is seventeen. He is going through a transition, of which the family can't be part of."
"The whole clan couldn't fit in the Manor, anyway, so really the rule only applies to the closest family," said Bohor. "Kenneth would have spent Christmas at Hogwarts, like last year, but Blanchefleur gave me an ultimatum. Either she spent Christmas with Kenneth or she wouldn't speak to me until she went to school. So Kenneth is here. He can meet part of the family, but the rest of the relatives are staying clear from the Hall."
"Why? I mean, wasn't it simpler to visit Kenneth in your flat, instead?" asked Harry, looking at Lancelot.
"It's again a tradition," said Bohor, in his brother's stead. "My brother Bedevere, Lancelot and I are the three Heirs of the direct line. We descend directly from the first Lionheart. Our rituals, however quirky or inconvenient, do have precedence. The rest of the family knows and accepts this. They are way too impressed by Kenneth's early awakening to complain, actually."
"Is that so rare?" asked Harry.
"It is pretty rare," confirmed Lancelot. "But, in truth, it is not very surprising. Kenneth told me he explained the way a Wandmaster clan works. How a muggleborn wandmaster is called a Root…"
Harry nodded.
"Kenneth is the son of an Heir and a Root," Lancelot went on. "Sarah emerged at seventeen. This was exceptional in itself. Kenneth emerged even sooner, and he's already done the family proud. The family is more disposed to make allowances for Kenneth's coming of age. Really it just means that our older brother isn't spending Christmas with us. He rarely does, anyway. His wife's family likes having him around. They all live in France."
Harry showed he understood.
"But as soon as Kenneth turns seventeen, there will be a hell of a celebration in here, I can tell you," Bohor said brightly.
The two brothers gave Harry the tour of the Manor, and Harry met three of Bohor's children, all boys. His wife wasn't around, and she had taken the girls for a bit of shopping. Harry liked the atmosphere of the Manor. It felt dignified, and yet, it was warm and cosy. It had the majesty of an ancestral home but it did feel… lived in. There was life and joy in this place. It wasn't pretentious, either, and the furniture was simple, yet elegant. Bohor told him that one of the cousins living in Ireland had made a passion of creating furniture for the Hall, combining hand work, magic and mixing both tradition and modernity. The result was very beautiful.
His reflections on the place were suddenly cut short by the sound of an explosion. Harry was about to go for his wand, when Lancelot's hand came to rest on his wrist.
"It's fine," he said. "Kenneth's in the training room."
"A training room? You have your own training room?" said Harry, impressed.
"Kind of mandatory for a family like ours," said Bohor, smiling.
Lancelot led Harry through the next door. Harry entered a large room with walls that looked padded and which were protected against various spells. The floor had mats all over, and allowed for any kind of combat. The first thought Harry got when he saw the place was 'I've got to get me one of those' and the second was 'ouch that got to hurt'.
This in response to seeing Kenneth block a very spectacular wave of energy with his wand and retaliating by a ferocious blasting spell that collided with his opponent's shield with a thundering sound. Harry saw Kenneth was wearing casual clothes, but nothing too comfortable. He could see the logic in that. When duelling, one had to be able to move in any kind of clothes.
His opponent was a woman. While Kenneth's ponytail was undone, hers was perfectly tied. She wore the leather outfit that Harry had seen often in Aurors and Hunters for the Order of the Phoenix. Tonks liked this kind of clothes.
The woman launched another volley of spells at Kenneth, who either dodged or blocked, before to counter with a shockwave that the woman had to duck.
Harry knew her pretty well. She was Lancelot's younger cousin. Her name was Sonia. She had been part of the Order during the war, a cadet fresh out of the Academy. Harry remembered how she had been looking up to both Sarah and Tonks, eager to join them on any assignment.
She was still fit and beautiful, but there was nothing young or naïve in the way she fought. She was fierce and powerful. Harry wasn't surprised. He had followed her exploits through the press. Sonia Lionheart… wasn't it Jenkins, now? The Auror responsible for the capture of most of the Death Eaters that had escaped Voldemort's defeat... Sonia had been enraged by Sarah's death and she had gone on a personal mission to take out as many members of the Voldemort's inner circle as she could. She had been responsible for catching Lucius Malfoy and sending him to Azkaban. Whenever Kingsley mentioned his best Aurors, Sonia was at the very top of his list.
Harry paid more attention to the duel, seizing the chance to see two Wandmasters going against one another. The fight was impressive. All spells were silently cast, and Harry could barely recognize any wave. Clearly, the both of them were using their own moves to use magic.
Sonia sent a bolt of lightning at Kenneth, who blocked it with a version of the sphere Kieran had devised for him. He then sent the energy charged ball right at his cousin, and she had to hastily raise a shield. Kenneth linked his attack with a wave of fire that came crashing against the shield, weakening it.
Sonia was about to retaliate when Kenneth suddenly waved his wand at the floor, then the ceiling. Sonia's face was suddenly splashed by water and she stumbled. Kenneth moved at once and attacked. Next second, Sonia was stunned, if only for a minute. Both Lancelot and Bohor applauded, Bohor's laugh sounding like it emerged from a gigantic cave.
Sonia came to soon enough, without any help, and Harry realised that they had been using dulled spells. Still it had been impressive and she looked a little flustered.
"What the hell was that?" she exclaimed. "You splashed my face with water?"
"Distraction," said Kenneth, with a half-smile. "It worked, didn't it?"
"Oh, don't get cocky, kiddo," said Sonia, her frown fighting with a smile over her face. "Just because you got the drop on me… and what was that ball thing?"
"I told you about the spell my friend created to block a Shocking Blast," said Kenneth. "This was a variation. I'll show you how it's done."
"Would you listen to him?" laughed Sonia. "You'll show me how it's done? Come on! And whoever gave you the idea of splashing my face with water, anyway?"
"That would be my fault, actually," said Harry, catching both their attentions. "Kenneth came up with this when we were practicing at school."
Kenneth turned to see that his teacher was here and looked a little embarrassed. Sonia, for her part, wasn't. She greeted him with a wide smile.
"As I leave and breathe, Harry Potter!" she said. "Well, it is sure nice to see you!"
She came to hug him. Harry wasn't surprised. She had always been very spontaneous.
"So you're the fellow who teaches the kiddo his neat tricks?" she said.
"I'm merely showing a professional interest," said Harry, with feigned haughtiness. "I'm fascinated by the gift and the way you guys translate spells into your own moves. So I tried to get Kenneth to expand his… repertoire?"
"Nicely said," said Lancelot, approvingly. "I do admit that I can see Kenneth progress quite fast. Still, it is the first time you manage to defeat Sonia, son. That's very well done."
"Don't get used to it," said Sonia, with a warning smile.
"Sure, I'll try not to," said Kenneth, beginning to redo his ponytail, but then he had a wince. "You had to slash it off, didn't you?" he complained to his cousin, showing a piece of string that had been holding his hair together.
"Sure," said Sonia. "So I can give you this."
She got a small box from her pocket and handed it to him. Harry looked on in interest, while Kenneth was opening it and pulled out a black and golden cord, which looked very elegant, though discrete. Much like the wand sheaths, this appeared to be the only accessories Wandmasters indulged in.
"I won't be around for Christmas," said Sonia. "I'm staying at Troy's family's. And I thought of leaving it for you. But when you offered the duel, I thought it could be a good occasion."
"Thanks," said Kenneth, sincerely. "It's beautiful."
"Hey, only the best for my favourite cousin," said Sonia. "Coming straight from Devereux's, back in Paris."
Harry was puzzled.
"The Devereux clan is a French family of 'duellistes' as they call themselves, over there," explained Lancelot. "They created this little shop which sells the only accessories that the Wandmasters care about… Gloves, sheaths, hair ties and a few duelling clothes. The merchandise is rare and expensive. The Devereux are aesthetes, and renowned art collectors."
"Yep, and there is a special way to tie this into your hair," said Sonia. "Come on, I'll show you while Lance and Bohor take Harry to lunch. He is invited for lunch, right?" she added to his cousin, sounding as if there would be trouble if he wasn't.
"Of course, he is," said Lancelot, rolling his eyes. "He came over for this."
If Kenneth had been surprised by Gareth's visit, he was even more surprised by Professor Potter's. But that was nice to see him out of Hogwarts. He also knew that his father had always wanted to get back in touch with him, after the war. He was glad he had finally gotten around to do it.
As he was walking with Sonia to his room, he turned to his cousin, who had showed up two days ago.
"What is it with you guys, offering me presents before the date?! First Gareth, and now you," he protested.
"Ah, yes, Lance told me he came here," said Sonia, a little too solemnly to Kenneth's taste.
"Is there a problem with him?" asked Kenneth.
"I'm not sure," said Sonia. "I saw Bedevere, not too long ago. He's still very angry at Gareth's choices. He says that he fear he may turn into a traitor to our name."
"Sounds dangerously like the Pure Blood nonsense," said Kenneth.
"I know," said Sonia. "And it isn't Bedevere's style to be so categorical. He has always been far above this. I know that you, Lancelot and I tended to side with Gareth, and we blamed Uncle Bedevere for his sternness with his son, but still, he wouldn't be so stubborn, just to prove us wrong."
"Do you think Gareth would turn bad?" asked Kenneth.
"I don't know," said Sonia. "I… I've known Gareth a long time. But lately… We've kind of grown apart. I think that he had begun to fancy me, so when I married Troy… Anyway, the problem is that we don't know what he does, really. Whatever missions he goes on, they're secret."
"So are yours," said Kenneth.
"Point taken," smiled Sonia. "But I'm an Auror. I still report to people… I don't know. It would just help if we knew that he wasn't lending his wand just to anybody."
Kenneth nodded. The tension between Gareth and his parents was still a sensitive wound in the family.
"He seemed pretty upset about his Dad," said Kenneth.
"That doesn't surprise me," said Sonia. "But enough about him! How do you do? I heard some stuff from Lancelot. How is this… Julie doing?"
Kenneth's face turned a little grimmer.
"As far as I know, she's doing well," he said.
"Ouch," said Sonia. "Still no progress, then?" she asked sympathetically.
Kenneth shook his head.
"I'm not sure there will be any," he said.
"You really like her, though, don't you?" said Sonia, who had always known how to read his moods.
"I'm afraid it's a little worse than that," said Kenneth, with a sad smile.
"What about her?" asked Sonia.
"That's the point," said Kenneth. "I thought for a moment that… Forget it. She's dating the 'Popular good-looking' guy and she doesn't seem to mind that he's in fact a downright jerk."
Feeling somewhat liberated, he then explained the whole situation to his cousin, as he was seeing it: the kiss in June, seeing her getting back with Donahue and act as if it had never happened, and how despite all this, he simply couldn't get her out of his head or his heart. Sonia listened intently, until he was done.
Once he was, she put a hand on his shoulder, comfortingly.
"Not an easy one, eh?" she said. "Well, the way I see it, there is something very fishy going on. Something must have happened this summer for her to change her attitude just like that."
"You sound like Kalindra," said Kenneth.
"I've always liked that girl," said Sonia, chuckling. "Come on, Kiddo, getting my arse kicked by my younger cousin has left me starving."
She stood up and Kenneth followed. But Sonia paused at the door. She turned a very serious look at him, before to have a smile.
"It will all work out in the end, you know," she said. "I mean… Maybe she just needs time. Or maybe you need time to get over it and find the right fit for you."
"I guess," said Kenneth, aware that he sounded unconvinced. "Sorry. It's… it's still really fresh, so I may be overdoing it a little."
"Well, let's shake that off, Mr Gloomy," she said. "I'm sure she's actually miserable, having dreams of longing about you. Just wait until she sees that new hair tie!"
Kenneth laughed more brightly, this time, before to join his cousin, as they made their way back to the dining room, where they would have lunch with Professor Potter. Kenneth felt somewhat better, thanks to Sonia. Well, he shouldn't be surprised by that.
She had always had a knack at cheering him up. Of course, her idea that Julie could be dreaming about him was preposterous, but it felt good to joke about it, for a change.
Maybe Kenneth was taking all of this way too seriously, after all.
Julie opened her eyes, relieved that it wasn't in a panicked gasp, this time. Thanks to her lessons with Professor Wroxton, she now was able to tell whether she had dreamed or seen something significant. This had been a vision, she was sure of it. She wasn't quite what to make of it, but still…
It hadn't been threatening, or eerie, but it had felt important.
She had seen a sword, resting on a velvet cushion. Julie had always been passionate about History, even before going to Hogwarts. She had seen plenty of swords in her life, in museums, paintings, movies… Hex, even more recently, she had often seen the one Sir Cadogan, the nutter in full plate armour roaming the paintings from time to time, kept waving around like a lunatic. But that sword had been different.
The blade had been elegant, and beautiful. The blade was slightly curved and so clear and pure that Julie had nearly caught a reflection in it. She had seen golden engravings on the blade, one at the hilt, and the other at the point of the sword. Near the hilt was the shape of a unicorn, and near the point was a stylised golden horn going along the edge.
There was something… majestic about this weapon. Something important, somehow. And Julie could still hear the curious whisper she had heard throughout the dream. A word she could make no sense of.
Voronda.
Realising it was still pitch black outside Gryffindor Tower, Julie buried herself back into her pillow, wondering what it could mean. Interpretation… the main creed of Wroxton, that was. She kept harping her about making sense of what she saw.
Well, in that case, she was clearly at a loss. Dreaming of a sword… It's not like there had been much more in the vision. No hand to wield it, no knight to bring it into battle… It felt like… like it was waiting.
Julie was starting to wonder whether or not that sword would show up one day in her life. Maybe that was the sense of the vision. She would have to discuss it with Desi… with Professor Wroxton.
Julie didn't really know how to act around the Divination Teacher. The older lady was a kind, easy going witch, and she made it very easy to like her and be relaxed around her. Still, she was a teacher and Julie didn't feel comfortable getting too familiar with her. But, as lessons succeeded each other, she was starting to see Wroxton more as a friend and a confident than a teacher.
Maybe she could bring it up with the older witch in their next session. Julie had learned her lesson. Some issues were better faced head on, rather than left to fester away. She had screwed up enough in her life, so far. She was sure Professor Wroxton would understand her concern.
As she turned in her bed, she remembered that today was the day her family would arrive in Hogwarts. She was excited to see them again. She wanted to show them the entire castle. If there had been one positive aspect of being stuck here for her security, it was that her parents would get to see the place she spent her year in. Julie still loved the castle, and everything in it, despite the danger she had known here. And she wanted her family to see the wonders of Hogwarts.
Plus, under the snow, it was even more beautiful.
She couldn't wait.
Christmas Eve was soon there and the remaining inhabitants were all gathered around a table to enjoy the Christmas Feast. Even Julie Carteret's family had been invited to join, despite not knowing many people. But they seemed to be blending in nicely.
As expected, the Weasley Family had again shown up, at Dumbledore's invitation. And the students who had stayed in the castle were delighted to see Fred and George show off a sample of their famous products, during the whole feast.
Harry was having a very good time. Presents in the family had been exchanged before the feast had begun.
Harry had got wonderful presents. The best had been Ginny's. She had given him a very old bracelet that had been in her family for three generations. It was made of copper and gold, elegant, while made for a man, which was, in Harry's opinion, no small feat. The fact it had belonged to Ginny's Grandfather was a nice sign telling Harry, if he had even needed to be reminded, that he was now part of the family.
As luck would have it, Harry had found an old piece of jewelry in his vault in Gringotts, and Remus had confirmed it had belonged to his ancestor, in James' line. It was a platinum chain with two stones, one red and one blue. Ginny had been moved to tears by the gift.
Ron had finally the chance to get a Firebolt, since Harry and Ginny had gotten together to buy him one. He was so glad that he had pulled them both into a giant hug. He was still playing Quidditch in his free time in an amateur club near London. This wouldn't improve his performance that much, him playing as a keeper. But the simple pleasure of flying one of the fastest brooms ever made… both Harry and Ginny could understand the appeal for Ron.
Keeping with the trend of offering jewels, Ron had bought an exquisite necklace for Hermione, saying that he would keep books for her birthday.
"Since we now have enough money to offer real gifts, I won't miss the occasion," he had said.
Hermione, tears in her eyes, had kissed him telling him that she didn't care about the price of his gifts. Still she did seem to love the jewel.
Harry had managed to completely blindside Hermione for his gifts. She had been totally surprised and delighted. Roaming Diagon Alley and even a few other bookshops the location of which he wouldn't reveal, for fear of seeing Hermione go there and never return, he had found a collector. It was an Old book by one the only Wizards known to Muggles as a real person, even if it was for something else. It was a Book of drawings by Leonardo Da Vinci. The drawings had been collected by an apprentice of his. The authenticity of the book had been confirmed. It was a precious bit of history. Hermione was already planning on reproducing all the pages, so she could read it without damaging it. Harry was quite proud of himself.
But the most stupefying present was yet to come for Hermione. It did appear during dinner, between the main course and cheese. It simply popped into existence in the middle of her plate.
Hermione was puzzled. Before her was a parcel, quite small and roughly oval in shape. There was a note attached on it. With a big A.P.W.B.D written on it. She turned her look to Dumbledore who smiled and winked at her.
"I thought this gift may be useful for you, my dear," said the old wizard, smiling mischievously.
"You're offering me an egg, Sir?" said Hermione.
"Yes," said Dumbledore. "And, not to boast, I can tell you it was a tricky business to keep it from hatching too soon. On that note, you really should unwrap it before it does…"
And, as if to prove his words, the egg started to move in all direction, ringing loudly against the plate. Hermione hurried to open the parcel as quickly as she could. The egg then rested in the plate. It was a curious colour, a dark grey streaked with orange… A crack appeared on its surface and everybody failed at hiding the start each crack was giving them.
Dumbledore snapped his fingers and something appeared near Hermione. It was a stool, with something that looked like a huge ashtray. Hermione was now looking at the egg, not really reassured. Harry looked at it too, smiling. Was it possible that Dumbledore had found another Dragonet? Their eggs were really rare.
Another crack on the egg and Ron leant closer to have a look. And finally, the egg exploded.
"Well, this one packs quite a punch, as you young people would say," said Dumbledore, casually.
Hermione was now waving her hand, coughing like mad, to get rid of a little cloud of smoke that was surrounding her.
And when the smoke dissipated, she found herself looking right at a little thing, that seemed quite weak. It was a bird.
"Oh, my goodness," said Hermione, and she took the little thing in her hands, trying to clean it a little, and to reassure it, as it was letting out the equivalent of a baby's first cry. The chirping was something like a pleading call for care. Hermione was now stroking softly the little bird, to reassure him. Her eyes were sparkling in marvelling.
"Is it possible?" she whispered. "Is this a …"
"Fawkes showed me where to find the last laying of his mate," said Dumbledore. "I thought this little fellow was the best choice to watch over our turbulent Miss Weasley."
"A Phoenix?" said Ron, completely stunned. "Wow, this is…"
"This is wonderful, Sir!" exclaimed Hermione. "How could I ever thank you?"
"Your eyes tell everything, my dear…" said Dumbledore, smiling benevolently.
Fawkes made his appearance in the Hall and landed on Hermione's chair's back. He began to sing a little song. The little bird chirped back, and with urgent hits of his beak, Fawkes pushed Hermione to put the little bird in the ash tray and to cover him with the dark dust.
"Fawkes is quite the expert in the question of Phoenix care," said Dumbledore. "Do not worry. In one or two days, this little one will be covered in feathers and ready to fly."
"I heard that Phoenixes are developing quite rapidly," said Alexander, who looked fascine.
"They do," said Dumbledore. "And they know almost everything necessary at their birth. They are quite fascinating creatures."
Fawkes turned to his master and sang him a few notes.
"Ah," said Dumbledore. "I'm not always sure of the meaning, but I can understand most intonations. I think this little fellow's name is Ash."
Fawkes nodded eagerly. That attitude for a bird was amusing.
"They're born with a name?" asked Ron.
"Yes," said Hermione, still looking lovingly at the ashtray and the little bird lying in it. "They're individuals, just like the Unicorns."
"Ash," said Ron. "That's a cool name."
"Cool?" said Hermione, sounding outraged. "Phoenixes are among the noblest creatures of earth and you find his name cool?"
Fawkes let out a tired note. Hermione threw him an interrogative look.
"I'm not sure he really likes the fuss about the so-called nobility of Phoenixes," said Dumbledore with a smile. "You know, Phoenixes are loyal, modest and friendly. So all this ramble about them being noble and famous creatures… Well, let's say it is tiresome for them."
"Can't blame you, there, Fawkes," said Harry with a twisted smile.
Fawkes let out a comic note, looking straight at him.
"Ian, come down help your Dad with the table," called Neve Malcolm from downstairs.
Ian ran down the stairs and reached the kitchen.
"Don't need to break your neck, Son," said John, smiling. "Okay, you take the plates."
Ian did as told and carried the plates in the dining room, where Ewan was already busy with Chris finishing the decoration of the room. The Christmas tree had been decorated for days, since Ian's Mom was insisting on doing it on her own. But the rest of the house was the task of the younger ones.
So Ian helped his dad to set the table, before he got back upstairs to change. He was ready just in time to meet his Grandmother, coming through Floo Powder. She was the oldest person in the family, since she had children late in her life. Ian was sometimes feeling a little uneasy with her, but she was usually nice with everyone.
Soon, many guests were either apparating in or emerging from the kitchen chimney, carrying loads of presents. Soon that very nice decorated tree was hidden by a huge pile of parcels, boxes, and stuff wrapped up in paper so tightly you could count the twigs of Ewan's new broomstick.
The dinner table was now full, with no less than twenty persons from distant cousins to close family, like Ian's Aunt Isabelle and Uncle Gilliam. Ian loved his family, but he had to admit that a room full of twenty wizards, witches, children and old persons with ear problems and everyone trying to get heard over the others was a little tiring.
But Chris was clearly enjoying his evening. He was speaking with Ewan's cousin, Moira and her sister Edwina. Of course, he was more interested in Edwina, who was almost his age. Ewan was professing a pure adoration for his older cousin, but Ian had to admit that Edwina was very pretty for her age. So no wonder if Chris was bewitched.
The dinner went very well, and soon, it was time to give out the presents. Ian got a very large collection of books, shiny new robes, for when he would get out of Hogwarts. But he also got a Chessboard from his Uncle Guillaume, from France. It was a very old piece of art, with ivory and ebony pawns. The figures were made of lead, and represented the Knights of Arthur against the Knights of Henghist, the Saxon King. Ian was delighted. He thanked him warmly.
Aunt Isabelle had offered him a very nice globe of crystal, with a changing light inside of it. It was a work she had done herself. It was really beautiful, but Ian found fascinating the way the light was changing, because he was seeing it through the Magic at play.
It came as no surprises, given its packaging, but Ewan got a new broomstick for he wanted to try out for the Quidditch team next year. And he also got quite an amount of old books. Ewan had a thing for old leather-bound books, as long as they dealt in fiction and not on anything remotely tied to education. The family knew that Ian's interests were more on Legends and History, and Ewan's on fiction.
At the end of the evening, the family had apparated safely back to their homes. Ian was now heading for bed, but something stopped him on the threshold. Diego, Kieran's Mystic hawk was perching on his chair. Apparently it had understood that he wasn't supposed to perch on Merlin's home just like that.
Ian saw it was carrying a parcel. He got to the bird, and untied the parcel. Diego flew back to the chair's back. Merlin gave a little encouraging hoot, and Diego flew to his water tank, and drank a little. It gave a little shriek of gratitude, to which Merlin only replied with a sort of a shrug, as if to say "as long as you remain polite, there's no problem". Ian chuckled slightly at the scene but soon went back to the parcel.
There was a note inside of it, pointing slightly out. He grabbed it, opened it and began to read.
Dear Ian,
I know it's a little early, since we usually exchange our gifts on the day you return from the break, but I really wanted you to have this for Christmas Day. So I sent Diego…
I hope you'll like it
Love,
Kieran
Ian opened the parcel, feeling a little strange. She had never insisted on giving him his present so soon. The paper was soon thrown on the floor, revealing an old looking book.
Ian's eyes widened when he saw the cover, Engraved in golden motives and letters, the title said.
Legends of Chaos Magic
When he opened the Book, a small paper fell from it. He picked it up from the floor and read it.
Ian,
This is a book about the legends surrounding your gifts. I found it this summer, in an old Seville book shop. It's bewitched so you don't need to translate it. And the content is left to be changed in the end.
It is an anonymous work, and the author intended someone to add more elements to it. So you can write down your own comments. There will be new pages if you need it. I hope this was a good idea. Don't worry, Dad bargained the price. So it didn't cost too much.
K
Ian smiled. He had been once horrified by one of her present, which was worth a fortune, in his opinion. Since then, she was teasing him with those reassuring remarks.
But this was a wonderful gift. Ian reached quickly for a quill, and a piece of parchment; he wrote down a quick reply to the letter.
Kieran,
Thank you so much, this is a wonderful present. I send back mine, although I was willing to give it to you at my return in Hogwarts. But I want to return the kindness, now. I hope you'll like it, too.
Happy Christmas after all, and see you soon.
Ian.
He quickly pulled the parcel he had gotten for her from behind his bed, and called Diego. He stuck his note in the parcel, and tied the whole to the hawk's claws. Diego then took his flight through the window, to get back to his mistress.
Ian was delighted. She surely wasn't expecting that he would "retaliate" that quickly. So maybe she would have a good surprise for her Christmas morning. Despite what she had said, Ian was feeling weird knowing her alone for Christmas. Maybe he didn't want to see her sad and lonely.
But maybe he was a little more egoistic than that. Maybe he was missing her.
He wondered what she would do in the almost deserted Nest, on her own.
Kieran was heading back to the Nest, when she noticed something odd through the window. The lights outside were clearly too bright for a night time. She looked through the closest window, scratching the thin layer of ice.
And what she saw made her start to run to the terrace of the Great Hall, still protected by the warmth spell.
When she got there, she saw that she had been right and smiled.
The Odinson twins were standing in the middle of the terrace, hand in hand, smiling serenely. The Teachers and their guests were all watching in awe, as thousands of light were flying in the night sky. Kieran had missed the first lightshow the twins had given Christine Lockenburn. It seemed like they were having another one, for the benefit of both Christine and her friend Lily Weasley.
The two little babies were laughing in delight, as little balls of light were passing before their nose.
The lights were increasing in number, going brighter and brighter. And now, from the silence of night, came a sound that sounded like a choir's distant voice. Each time a light was reaching new heights or a new colour, the sound would change a little.
Kieran was under the charm, now, and she saw that the lights were heading for the lake's surface, and starting another dance over it. Whenever a light ball was touched the surface, it sent little waves of bright light over the calm waters.
The sight felt like a dream.
Suddenly, something came out of the forest. It wasn't Grawp, as Kieran had heard that he had been fascinated by the show, last time. As a matter of fact, Grawp was already sitting near Hagrid's hut, his eyes round as car wheels, as it couldn't be honestly compared to Galleons.
No, the thing coming out of the forest was a group of creatures, Centaurs, Lutins, Pixies, and even a Unicorn. And above this group, a flock of shining fairies took off to join the dance of light over the lake. The show was now completely unique.
Kieran had the feeling she was living some moment that could change the whole world if anyone would care to pay attention. All species, here, gathered, in the grounds of Hogwarts, looking and being a part of an act of Magic dedicated to pure beauty.
Kieran wondered if there could be more moments like this one. She truly hoped so.
The light began to whirl over the lake surface. And the Fairies followed the movement. And the spiral of light begin to rise higher even higher. At some point, the fairies stopped ascending, maintaining their own dance below the light's.
And the lights suddenly exploded, sending particles of light all over the snowy grounds. It looked like it was snowing light. Kieran sighed deeply.
Some fairies, despite being usually scared of human contacts, came flying over the terrace.
The babies looked at them in a silent awe, their eyes full of sparkles.
One of the fairies came to kiss Christine's, then Lily's little cheek, and the babies giggled in delight. Then the flying creature flew near the twins, and bowed before them, before to lead her friends away from the castle, while the other creatures were heading back into the Forest. When it passed before her, Kieran noticed that the little fairy who had kissed the babies was wearing a little crown over her clear blue hair.
Was it possible that…
"Who was that fairy?" whispered Professor Potter to Professor Dumbledore.
"She's called Zenith," said the old wizard, on the same tone. "And she's the Fairy Queen of our forest. It's a great honour to be recognized by her."
"Wow," said Susan, without having heard him. "I wasn't expecting the fairies," she said to her brother.
"Neither did I," said Sven. "But that was pretty good."
They were talking as if they had just played some piece of music, which was no far from the truth, thought Kieran. This had been art, not Magic.
"Well, I'm glad to have lived that far," said Dumbledore, on a comic tone. "To see the fairies fly so close to the castle is a rare thing."
He turned to the twins.
"This is a very impressive charm," he told them. "And I was delighted of the use you put it to. I think that deserves at least ten points each to Gryffindor."
"It's only a light spell, Sir," said Sven, blushing.
"Yes, but being in possession of a high power and using it for art is a mark of wisdom or of great heart, Mr Odinson. So I say you deserve these points for the use you had of your gifts."
"And I personally thank you for that show," said Professor Potter.
"Yes, yes, very beautiful," squealed Filtwick, beginning to applause.
Soon, the whole terrace was applauding, and Kieran hadn't hesitated in joining the small crowd. Mrs Lockenburn and Professor Weasley came near the twins, their daughters in their arms.
"That was a wonderful Christmas gift," said Phyllis, kissing both of them on the cheek. "Thank you."
"If you ever consider taking arithmancy for your third year," said Professor Weasley. "I can assure you that your first test will reach an O."
"Hermione!" protested Professor McGonagall, and everybody laughed.
"I don't mean it, Minerva," said Professor Weasley, on a feint repentant tone.
But she winked at the twins, who chuckled lightly.
Everybody headed back inside, and soon, Kieran resumed her way to the Nest. This had been a very good evening, full of wonders and surprises. She only had one regret: Ian hadn't been here to see this.
She missed his humorous vision of life and such a night would have been surely much funnier if he had been here. She missed his presence, too.
When she entered the Common Room, she saw that Diego was already back from his trip across the land. And he was carrying a parcel! She rushed to the Mystic and untied the parcel from his clutches. She gave him a little piece of meat that she was always carrying in a belt purse, which was conserving it by Magic. She had it in case the hawk would come to her in hope for a treat.
And indeed, he deserved one, tonight, for having flown to Ian's and back again. She grabbed the parcel eagerly and took the note that was stuck in it.
Kieran,
Thank you so much, this is a wonderful present. I send back mine, although I was willing to give it to you at my return in Hogwarts. But I want to return the kindness, now. I hope you'll like it, too.
Happy Christmas after all, and see you soon.
Ian.
She smiled. She was glad that he had liked her present. She had been waiting to give him this since the summer, and she really wanted it to be a perfect gift for him. Now that she had succeeded, she felt relieved and happy. She opened her own parcel.
What had he come up with? Despite his great many qualities, Ian had never shown much originality, when it came to presents, relying on the classics, such as books and stuff like that. She didn't mind, but she had come not to expect a big surprised, when opening his parcels.
But when she discovered what was in the parcel, her hand came to clasp on her mouth, as she let out a gasp. Tears of emotion came to her eyes.
"Oh, Ian," she whispered. "This so beautiful…"
"What a beautiful night(*)," said Marie Carteret, as Julie was leading her family back to the guest apartments they had been offered by Professor Dumbledore.
"Yes," said her father, Nicolas. "I'll say that the spell those kids played with was enchanting. Do they teach you that kind of thing in here? That's fantastic."
"Actually, they don't," said Julie, with a smile. "Really, what I learn here is mostly the same as what I did learn in Beauxbâtons. The Odinson twins are special cases."
"How so?" asked Marie.
"You remember Ian?" asked Julie. "The guy who…"
"Who came to your rescue when you got attacked," said Marie in her place. "And then risked his life with his friends to save you from that sect. I do remember him, yes."
"Right," said Julie. "Well, he's gifted in Chaos Magic, as I explained to you. Sven and Susan are the same. It takes their gift to play with light on such a scale. It was wonderful, though."
"You got that right," commented Ariane, Julie's older sister. "I thought I was going to cry when the fairies joined in."
They reached the landing where the apartment was. Marie and Nicolas were still looking around, still impressed with the place. The fact that the castle would hold such marvel for both her parents, one muggle and one witch did prove to Julie how special Hogwarts was.
Still thinking of Ian, apparently, Marie was going on.
"A shame we didn't get to meet more of the young people who saved you," she said. "I would have liked to thank them in person."
Julie's family had been here for three days. In that time, Julie had introduced them to the castle, the teachers, especially Professors Potter, Weasley and Lockenburn, who had saved her life. Her mother and Miss Weasley had hit it off very quickly. It did help that Miss Weasley spoke decent French, her sister in law being a Beauxbâtons graduate. Later on, she had been able to introduce them to Kieran, the only member of the gang who had rescued her to have remained in Hogwarts for Christmas. They had been obviously grateful, but Julie could tell her mother still felt the obligation to meet the others.
"Perhaps at the end of term, if you come to pick me up in King's Cross, this year," said Julie.
"Oh, I think we can be there," said Nicolas. "Also a shame we weren't able to meet your boyfriend…"
"Papa!" said Julie on a whining note.
"Just kidding, love," said Nicolas.
They reached their quarters. For the duration of their stay, Julie was sleeping in the apartment, as accessing the tower would have required a password that the staff wasn't about to give to outsiders, no matter how trustworthy they were. Professor Potter had accompanied them, so that her family could see the Common room, and in her mother's case, her dorm.
Julie didn't mind sharing a room with Ariane. It did feel like the old days at home. So, after a final exchange of Christmas wishes, her parents headed for bed. The next morning, Julie would, if the weathered allowed it, show them the Quidditch pitch.
Soon, she and Ariane were ready for bed. Julie knew her sister. She had been obviously chomping at the bit since the moment she had arrived. The mention of Robert by her father clearly had made her reach her breaking point.
Julie knew she wasn't getting any sleep, anytime soon.
"So," said Ariane, casually. "What the hell is going on?"
"What do you mean?" asked Julie.
"Don't play innocent with me, Julie," said Ariane.
"I'm not," said Julie, honestly. "I do have a lot of things going on, so could you be more specific?"
Ariane laughed at that.
"What I mean is that Dad's quip about your 'boyfriend' did cause you to flinch," said Ariane. "Don't you want him to meet Maman and Papa?"
"Er… that would be… premature," said Julie.
"Really, after… what, a full year together?" said Ariane. "What's wrong?"
"It's complicated," said Julie. "I… Robert is a nice guy, but, to be honest, these days, I'm wondering how long it can last, really."
"Why? Because he's British and you'll head back to France one day?" offered Ariane.
Julie was about to retort that the distance between France and Britain hardly mattered for wizards, but her sister didn't leave her time for it.
"Or, maybe, it's because of that shining knight of yours," she said, impishly.
"Shining knight? What does that even mean?" scoffed Julie.
"Oh, come on, Julie, I let it slide this summer, because I was busy with Julien's change of work and place, but I'm no fool," Ariane said with a grin. "Whenever you mentioned that 'Kenneth' guy's name, you had stars in your eyes for the whole of July. And then it stopped. Isn't he the guy who led the charge to rescue you?"
"Yes," said Julie.
"See? Shining knight," said Ariane. "I could have sworn you were in love with him, not the highborn prefect. And yet you're still dating Robert? I'm getting confused."
"I know," said Julie. "It's…"
"Complicated," said Ariane in her place. "You said it before. How about you make it simpler for me, then?"
Julie had a sigh. She knew her sister wouldn't back off. If Kalindra was persistent, Ariane could be seen as downright obsessive at times. And whenever she felt she needed to step in, there would be nothing to stop her. So she might as well go for the truth, there.
"I… I saw something that changed everything, this summer," said Julie. "And from that point, I've made mistake after mistake, until I screwed it all up."
And on that, she told her everything. From the letter she had gotten to Kenneth to her visions. Then she told Ariane of the decisions she made and the results she had reaped. Once she was done, tears had dried on her face, but she felt a little lighter, somehow. She could see that Ariane wasn't disgusted in her.
"Wow," said her sister. "You've been dealt pretty bad cards, huh?"
"You could say that," said Julie. "I'm… I'm stuck, really. How do I even make it up to Kenneth? I broke his heart. And… Robert, I can't just dump him like that… He doesn't deserve that. I do like him!"
"I know," said Ariane. "But how much of your will to stay with him is born out of guilt, really?"
"Guilt?" asked Julie, puzzled.
"You realised that you've used him as an excuse, somehow," said Ariane. "Apparently you disagree on a growing number of topics. I would say that maybe your relationship isn't meant to last that long, regardless of Kenneth."
"What does it have to do with guilt?" asked Julie.
"Would you hesitate to break up with him, if you didn't feel like you owe him for using him?" asked her sister.
"I… I don't know," said Julie.
"Then figure it out," said Ariane, with a shrug. "You need to separate the problems. So far, you've screwed up your relationship with Kenneth. That's a shame, but that's done. On the other hand, you need to remove Kenneth out of your situation with Robert. On its own, if you don't take Kenneth into account, is your couple with Robert worth the effort? Can it work? Once you decide this, you can choose to stay with Robert or dump him. And, without any connection, you can see if you can try and repair your friendship with Kenneth."
"But if he gets close to me, he'll…" began Julie.
"You don't know that, Julie," said Ariane. "Divination has never been that absolute, in my experience."
Julie thought a long time about what her sister had just said. It just made sense. She decided that she would try to do as Ariane advised. She needed to fix the whole mess.
And she needed to do it soon.
(*) The entirety of this dialogue is, of course, in French, since Julie is alone with her family. But I didn't want to inflict on you the chore of having to double check each sentence spoken by Julie's family. Let's say there were magical subtitles around.