Chapter 13 Christmas at the Potters Part 2
On Christmas Day, Eve awoke to the soft light filtering into the room. As her eyes gradually adjusted, she noticed Lilly standing by the window, her gaze fixed longingly on the snowy scene outside. With a quiet smile, Eve rose from her cot and made her way over to Lilly.
"Merry Christmas, Lilly. Did you wish for snow?" Eve inquired. The little girl's face lit up with joy as she nodded enthusiastically. "I sure did, and I got my wish," Lilly replied, pressing her face against the glass pane, yearning to get even closer to the magical snowfall without stepping outside.
The two girls stood by the window, mesmerized by the winter wonderland outside. Suddenly, a knock on the door startled them, causing them to swiftly turn around. Their eyes met Harry, who was standing at the threshold of their room. He sported a scarlet red dressing gown adorned with oversized lion head slippers.
Harry couldn't help but notice the bewildered expression on Eve's face as she eyed his attire. He chuckled and said, "Once a Gryffindor, always a Gryffindor." With a smirk, Lily rolled her eyes at her father who wore the same attire every Christmas. Harry continued, "Are you girls ready to come downstairs? We're still waiting for James and Albus; they should be up any moment."
In a burst of energy, Lily dashed past her dad and raced down the stairs, her joyful squeals filling the air. Eve followed at a more measured pace, while Harry proceeded down the hallway. He knocked on James' door, receiving a few grunts that suggested James was awake and would be joining them shortly. Harry spotted a broom propped up in the corner next to James' door, so he reached for it and extended it upwards, giving the ceiling a firm knock to get Albus's attention.
Sounds of movement emanated from the top floor, bringing a smile to Harry's face as he realized that Albus was up and about. Satisfied that everyone was now awake, he made his way downstairs.
Upon entering the living room, it had undergone a complete transformation overnight. Harry and Ginny must have been hard at work while the kids slept. The floor was dusted with warm, touchable white snow, fairy lights and tinsel adorned every corner of the room, and the fireplace crackled with a welcoming, cozy warmth.
Beneath the Christmas tree lay an assortment of gifts, each wrapped in distinct, colourful paper designated for every child. Green for Albus, red for James, purple for Eve, and gold for Lily. Eve settled onto the sofa, which had been repositioned to face the tree rather than the TV. She was awestruck by the number of presents she had, a total of 10. Since her visit to the Potters had been somewhat impromptu, she hadn't anticipated so many gifts at all.
"Hot chocolate, dear?" Ginny's voice drifted from the kitchen. "Yes, please," Eve replied. Moments later, a steaming cup of hot chocolate, complete with a candy cane and a marshmallow on top, was placed in her hand. Eve had learned from her past experiences and made sure to blow on it several times before taking a cautious sip.
Lily was practically buzzing with excitement as she sat on the floor beside her pile of gifts, her joy evident on her beaming face. "Dad, make them wake up faster!" she squealed at Harry. He chuckled and shook his head. "They'll be up any moment, Lily. Be patient, if that's even possible for you." Lily folded her arms and pouted, the golden wrappings of her presents glistening in her brown eyes.
Sounds of movement emanated from upstairs, resembling slow thuds on the wooden floorboards, akin to a group of trolls shuffling about. The stairs began to creak, and shortly after, Albus and James emerged. Both boys looked dishevelled, with messy and unkempt hair. James donned the same attire as Harry – a scarlet red dressing gown with lion head slippers, while Albus was dressed in England Quidditch team pyjamas.
The two boys entered the room with quiet, sleepy expressions. Albus took a seat on the sofa beside Eve, while James settled on the floor next to his sister. Lily's excitement had escalated even further with the boys' arrival. "Presents!" Her enthusiastic squeal pierced everyone's ears, the high-pitched quality of her voice resembling nails on a chalkboard.
With a contorted expression and one hand protecting his ear, Harry nodded. Lily appeared like an enthusiastic whirlwind as she tore through her presents, shredding the wrapping paper within seconds and letting out excited screams with each unveiling. "Lily, sweetie, you have to read the tags to see who they're from and thank them," Ginny reminded her daughter.
Lily turned towards her mother, slightly abashed, and said, "Oh, right. Um, thanks, everyone." Afterward, she resumed her gift-opening frenzy, eliciting chuckles from everyone in the room.
Harry and Ginny cautiously leaned down, aiming to avoid any enthusiastic mauling by their youngest child, as they handed out presents to everyone. Eve, in no rush to open her gifts, patiently observed Albus as he began to unwrap a few of his own.
The first green package he unveiled contained a matching set of robes and slippers, all Slytherin-themed. His expression wasn't one of immediate joy, but he mustered a fake smile as he looked toward his father. "Thanks, Dad," Albus said, his lips pressed into a flat line. Eve couldn't help but release a low chuckle at the comical sight of Albus in his new outfit. "So dashing," she teased, earning a thoughtful stare from her brother.
Albus responded by pointing to a soft, purple package, the one Eve should open next. "Your turn," he said, placing a finger to his lips, a knowing grin on his face. "That one," he pointed to the package that matched the one he had opened.
Eve's eyes widened with anticipation as she envisioned the contents concealed within the wrappings. She delicately read the card and expressed her gratitude to Harry and Ginny. Then, with a mixture of excitement and curiosity, she eagerly tore away the wrappings to unveil an identical set of robes and slippers, just like the ones Albus had received.
Putting on her best smile, she thanked Mr. and Mrs. Potter once again. As she donned the matching robe and slippers, she couldn't help but feel a touch silly, but the idea of coordinating with Albus was undeniably cute and heartwarming.
Eve settled comfortably on the sofa, wrapping her arms around Albus's, and observed the remaining Potter family members as they unwrapped their gifts. James revealed the small present from Eve, holding up two boxes of Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Beans with a smile on his face. "Thanks, Eve, I love these."
"You're welcome," Eve replied with a reminiscing smile. "I had a bumblebee-flavoured one once. I hope you get only the good Flavors." She cast a sly sideways glance at Albus, who was in on the hidden secret behind her gift.
James eagerly opened the box and selected a glossy green bean, inspecting it closely. "Looks like apple to me," he mused before popping it into his mouth. His expression quickly transformed from anticipation to disgust. "Ewww, vomit flavour," he declared, sputtering and rubbing his tongue in a futile attempt to rid himself of the unpleasant taste.
The entire room erupted in laughter at James's expense as he set the two boxes aside and continued unwrapping his remaining presents. With nine more gifts to go, Eve decided it was time to open another one. She checked the gift tags to see who they were from and noticed a present from the headmistress. Her curiosity piqued, she eagerly tore into the purple wrappings, revealing a long, slender box. Harry, who had been observing from across the room, inquired, "What do you have there, Eve?" It was clear that this wasn't a gift any of the Potters had selected for her.
Eve gently grasped the box, her fingers tracing its edges. "I'm not sure, but it's from Headmistress McGonagall. There's a note here," Eve said as she read the attached note aloud. " 'Since you lost yours, I brought you a new one. I hope it suits you just right.' " She whispered to herself, "It's a wand," as she carefully lifted the lid of the box.
Upon opening the box, she discovered plush black felt adorned with tiny, glittering stars, cradling a beautifully carved wand. At the base of the wand, a small hourglass motif sat, seamlessly connected to the extended nine-inch length of deep brown wood, which was gracefully twisted and adorned with a delicate golden band. One side of the wand bore small runes etched into the wood, and as Eve ran her fingers over them, they emitted a soft, golden glow.
Gripping the wand firmly in her hand, she could sense the strong connection it held with her own magic. Eve marvelled at how Headmistress McGonagall had managed to have this wand crafted so quickly and with such remarkable compatibility. She made a mental note to inquire about it when she had the chance.
"Wow, that's a beautiful wand," Albus exclaimed, gazing in admiration at the wand Eve held in her hand. Eve, eager to share her newfound treasure, passed it around the room so that everyone could have a good look. Ginny, intrigued by the runes etched on the side, furrowed her brow and asked, "What do these say? I was never great with runes," passing the wand to her husband.
Harry adjusted his glasses to sit more comfortably on his nose as he brought the wand closer for a thorough inspection. His forehead creased as he focused on the runes. "I'm not one hundred percent sure, but to me, it looks like they say, 'Flow,' 'Strength,' 'Wealth,' and 'Perception,'" he replied. A hint of uncertainty coloured his answer as he passed the wand back to its owner.
Eve carefully returned the wand to its box, safeguarding it for the time being until she returned to Hogwarts, where it could once again be put to use.
As Eve glanced at Albus's pile of presents, she couldn't help but notice that he hadn't opened the one from her yet. Her excitement got the better of her, and she picked up the gift, passing it to him. "This one is from me," she said, her eyes filled with anticipation.
Albus returned her smile and handed her a present in return. "This one is from me," he offered. Eve insisted that Albus should go first in opening his present, a suggestion he didn't contest.
Gently unwrapping the paper revealed a beautifully decorated box. Upon removing the lid, Albus reached inside and pulled out a small glass bauble that he instantly recognized as being similar to the ones adorning the Christmas tree. As he examined the gift more closely, he watched as the memory played out, two figures seated under an archway, watching the sunset and leaning into each other. Even though it was a mere memory, the love and connection between these two figures emanated warmth, bringing a smile to his face. "Thank you, I love it," Albus said, expressing his appreciation with a kiss and a warm hug.
Eve was filled with a warm, fuzzy feeling, relieved to see that Albus appreciated the gift and its sentimental value. His affectionate response made her feel incredible. "Your turn now," Albus said, breaking Eve's reverie. She quickly nodded and proceeded to carefully and meticulously open her own gift.
Eve uncovered a decorative glass jar with an intricate lid. She turned it over in her hand, a perplexed expression on her face. She wasn't sure whether to be excited or disappointed. "What is it?" she inquired, looking to Albus for an explanation.
Albus couldn't help but let out a soft chuckle. "I knew you wouldn't recognize this," he said with a pointed glance toward his dad, who had played a role in selecting the gift. "It's a memory bank, and I'll show you," he explained. Taking the jar from Eve, Albus gently pressed it against his temple. A slender ribbon of white light emerged from his head, passed through the glass, and settled at the bottom of the jar.
Eve let out a small gasp, thoroughly impressed by the enchanting magic of the memory bank. "Now, you take it and place it against your head, then try to clear your mind. The memories inside the jar will fill your mind one after another," Albus instructed.
Eve followed his guidance and, before her eyes, a memory unfolded—a recollection of their first kiss. She could sense the emotions that Albus had felt at that moment, and it sent tingles coursing throughout her body. Eve leaned back into the sofa, allowing the memory to envelop her, and it was perfect.
After she had exited the memory and placed the jar in her lap, a wide, cherubic smile graced her lips. Albus, looking a bit shy, spoke up, "I was hoping we can add many more memories to that jar over time, if you'd like."
Eve sensed his shyness and extended her hand to hold Albus's. "Of course, I'd love to," she responded in a soft voice. She leaned in and gave him a lingering, affectionate kiss on the lips.
"Ewww, make it stop!" Lily shouted out, her little voice cutting through the moment, which caused both Eve and Albus to erupt into laughter as they shared a kiss. In the spirit of the gift she had just received, Eve decided to add a memory to the jar. She pressed it to her head and focused on this very moment—the sweet kiss they had just shared, the laughter that had made it even more special—and she added it to the jar, cherishing the memory forever.
The remaining gifts were unwrapped, revealing the contents. James and Albus were thrilled to receive the latest model of brooms. Lily had a mountain of books related to all things magical. Harry and Ginny were gifted the customary sweets and chocolates from the kids, while Eve also received the same from Lily and James. In addition, she had received a few other thoughtful presents from her friends at Hogwarts.
Once they had tidied up, the children hurried upstairs to stow away their presents before dinner preparations commenced. However, Eve had no desire to remain cooped up in her shared bedroom all day. She made her way downstairs to the kitchen, eager to observe the magical process of preparing the dinner.
The moment she stepped into the kitchen; it was a mesmerizing spectacle. Self-stirring pots danced on the stovetop, dough rolled with floating rolling pins, and numerous knives sliced and diced vegetables before levitating them into steaming pots. The aromas wafting through the air were nothing short of heavenly. "I love magic," Eve whispered to herself in awe as she continued to watch the enchanting display.
Ginny noticed Eve's fascination and asked, "Would you like to help?" Uncertain about how to assist, as she couldn't use magic outside of school, Eve hesitated before replying, "I don't know how."
Ginny offered a soft smile and approached Eve. With a deft wave of her wand, an apron slipped over Eve's head and neatly tied itself around her back. "You'll want to tie your hair up, too," she suggested as she touched her own ponytail. Eve gathered her hair and secured it into place, feeling ready to lend a hand. Eager and attentive, she awaited further instructions.
"Eve, you can check the temperature of the turkey, but be cautious—it's very hot. Open the oven door and wait a moment before getting too close," Ginny instructed her new sous-chef.
Eve followed the guidance, opening the oven door and allowing a brief moment to pass before she checked the thermometer inserted into the side of the turkey. "55 degrees, is that right?" she inquired. Ginny let out a soft tut, "Getting closer, but it needs to reach 70 before we can take it out. How about helping me make the cake instead?" Eve nodded eagerly.
A short while later, the cake was in the second oven, baking away. Eve's apron, on the other hand, was now speckled with bits of egg and flour, creating a somewhat comical sight. She couldn't help but giggle at her own appearance.
"Thank you for your help, Evelyn. You can go play now if you'd like; I can handle the rest. I believe Albus, James, and Lily are heading outside to play in the snow," Ginny said to her little chef. Eve beamed and removed her apron, dashing upstairs to fetch her outdoor clothing, eager to join in the snowy fun.
All geared up, she joined the three Potter children in the hallway next to the front door, and together, they ventured out into the snowy streets of London. The initial whiteness was nearly blinding, but as her eyes adjusted to the white canvas that enveloped everything, Eve followed Albus as he sprinted down the street.
Albus suddenly ducked behind a parked car, and Eve cautiously approached, only to be greeted by a surprise snowball to the face. "ALBUS!" she screamed, spitting out tiny flakes of snow. Quickly regaining her composure, Eve squatted down and fashioned a small, compact snowball in her hand. She felt slightly miffed by Albus's unexpected attack and was determined to get her revenge.
Eve playfully threw a mock tantrum, shouting, "I'm going back inside; this isn't fun anymore!" She wore a mischievous smirk on her face as she turned around, expecting to hear the sound of crunching snow behind her, signifying Albus emerging from his hiding spot. The instant she heard the telltale noise, Eve swiftly pivoted on the spot and let the snowball fly, adding an extra touch of speed courtesy of her newfound ability to fast-forward time.
The snowball zipped through the air, moving at a speed that seemed twice as fast as it should be. It made contact with Albus's arm, and the force of the snowball sent him tumbling to the ground in a soft, snowy heap. Eve was taken aback by his response; he wasn't upset but instead burst into laughter.
"You've got quite an arm there. Maybe you should consider joining the Quidditch team as a Beater," he teased, as Eve approached him with a grin.
Albus playfully pulled her down with him, and Eve let out a small yelp as her feet slipped from beneath her. She landed on top of Albus, their foreheads colliding. This unexpected encounter led to both of them erupting in laughter at the sheer silliness of the situation. Albus and Eve intertwined their fingers and lay side by side, gazing up at the sky as they watched the snowflakes gracefully descend and land upon them. It was a truly magical moment for the two of them.
After a few hours of frolicking in the snow, Harry's voice called out from the doorway, "Dinner is ready." All four of them hurriedly made their way inside, shedding their cold, wet clothes. Mrs. Potter skilfully used her wand to dry the children and warm them up before they took their seats at the table.
Eve, gathering her courage, looked around at the welcoming faces and said, "Can I say something before we start?" She took a deep breath, and when no one protested, she continued, "Thank you for welcoming me into your home and treating me like a part of the family. I couldn't have asked for a better surrogate Christmas. And Ginny, the food looks amazing!" Eve finished her heartfelt words with a warm smile.
Ginny returned Eve's smile and announced to everyone, "Dig in." Without hesitation, they all eagerly tucked into the delicious food. The tantalizing aroma and taste of the dishes left Eve wondering if it was the magic or the culinary prowess of the Potters that made the meal so delectable.
After indulging to the point of being utterly stuffed, the Potters and Eve reclined in the living room, where they enjoyed more cheesy Christmas movies until it was time to retire for the night. Eve snuggled up to Albus under the warm blanket, the scene on the TV blurring into the background as her thoughts meandered. These past months had been a whirlwind; she began the year oblivious to magic, and now she was deeply entrenched in it. She possessed a rare and unique form of magic, thought to have been lost to the world, and she had played a role in unleashing the cruellest witch to have ever walked the earth.
The more she ruminated on Hera, the deeper Eve delved into her own thoughts. Then, a soft voice barely audible seemed to whisper to her, "The hourglass." She cast her gaze around the room in search of the source of this mysterious voice, but everyone else in the room was engrossed in the television, and no other figure could be discerned.
Eve found herself pondering the significance of those words. Could it be related to the Sands of Eternity she had discovered in Hogwarts' library? And how did it connect to Hera? Disturbing visions of the hourglass locked away in a dimly lit room resurfaced in her mind. The eerie feeling it evoked forewarned of impending trouble, sending shivers down her spine.
Eve felt an overpowering urge to delve deeper into her research on the hourglass, but she had already exhausted Hogwarts' library for any information on it. It was clear that she would need to seek knowledge elsewhere.
"Are you enjoying the movie?" Albus's soothing voice interrupted her thoughts, bringing her back to the present. "Yes, it's great," she lied, realizing she hadn't truly paid attention for quite some time. A tinge of guilt crept in, but she snuggled closer to Albus, seeking solace in his presence. She wished that the persistent visions replaying in her mind would subside, but they continued to haunt her.
The next day was Boxing Day, the day when Eve would be visiting Albus's grandparents with him and the rest of his family. Nervousness was an understatement; she was utterly petrified. Throughout the morning, during breakfast, Albus tried to reassure Eve, telling her that everything would be fine and that everyone would adore her. However, his words did little to quell her anxiety.
At least Rose would be there, she thought, someone else she knew. If things got too overwhelming, she could cling to her friend for support.
The moment arrived when everyone was dressed in their winter attire, prepared to Floo to the Burrow in Devon. Eve observed as Ginny and Harry went first, followed by Lily and James. Finally, it was her turn to step into the fireplace. She took a handful of Floo powder and inhaled deeply before clearly stating, "The Burrow." In an instant, the emerald flames engulfed her, and she was transported across miles of England in the blink of an eye.
As the room slowly came into focus, its charm and coziness enveloped Eve. The furniture, a delightful mishmash of styles, exuded a well-worn allure. Knitted blankets adorned the walls, while whimsical ornaments and enchanting gadgets adorned the shelves. At the room's heart, a set of crooked stairs spiralled upward at an unconventional angle.
Eve emerged from the fireplace, a reassuring hand from Albus guiding her forward. With a deep breath to conquer her insecurities, she followed his lead, revealing a bustling gathering of people. Among them were both children and adults, with a prevalence of fiery, ginger hair—except for one family with striking blonde locks. Amidst the crowd, Eve's eyes met George, who stood beside a lovely, darker-skinned woman and their two adorable children.
Many of the children in the room seemed strangely familiar to Eve, likely fellow students from Hogwarts. However, Albus, James, or Rose had yet to introduce her to their numerous other cousins. Swiftly, Eve's eyes caught sight of an empty space on the sofa, and she made a beeline for it. She had no desire to remain in the centre of the room, under the scrutiny of curious eyes. Already feeling like an outsider, as she had no blood ties to anyone in the room, she sought solace in the quiet corner of the sofa.
A familiar face emerged from the kitchen, balancing a metal tray laden with a delightful assortment of cookies. Even though Rose's vibrant hair and freckles typically made her stand out, in this extensive gathering, she seemed to seamlessly blend in. Their eyes met, and an immediate smile graced both of their faces. Rose handed the tray of cookies to a tall man in his late thirties, whom Eve assumed to be her father. With that, Rose made her way over to her friends and perched herself gracefully on the arm of the sofa.
"I can't believe Albus managed to persuade you to come," Rose mused, her voice carrying a hint of disbelief. "I mean, I'm family, and even I dread these gatherings. It's perpetually chaotic, and my cheeks feel like they've been pinched a million times. At least you have the advantage of not being related to anyone here."
Suddenly, a petite, older lady with fading red hair seized Rose's arm and whisked her away to the opposite side of the room. Before disappearing into the bustling crowd, Rose silently mouthed the words, 'Run while you still can.'
Eve shifted her attention to the person seated beside her, a striking young woman on the verge of adulthood with flowing blonde locks and a complexion that seemed flawless. She bore a striking resemblance to Dotty, prompting Eve to introduce herself without wanting to appear impolite.
"Evelyn Warren," she began, extending her hand into the limited space between them, resulting in an awkward and uncomfortable handshake. "I'm, uh, Albus's girlfriend. Nice to meet you."
The young woman responded with a warm and kind voice, "Victorie Weasley. You look familiar—have I seen you around Hogwarts before?"
Eve nodded, a tinge of embarrassment colouring her expression as she acknowledged, "Yes, I'm the... girl who was possessed during the sorting ceremony." Victorie's eyes held a touch of sympathy as she responded, "Are you feeling okay now? I'm sure it was a tough time dealing with that. Kids can be cruel."
Once more, Eve nodded, her gaze steady as she spoke, "Yes, I'm doing better now. Thank you for asking. It was challenging at first, but Albus and my friends were there to help me through it." As she mentioned Albus, Victorie's smile blossomed, a reflection of shared happiness.
"Albus is a good kid, and I'm glad he's chosen to be with you. I can tell when someone is genuine, and you, Evelyn, are very genuine," Victorie expressed with a warm smile. She was about to continue when she felt a tap on her shoulder from another girl. This girl had blonde hair with colourful streaks scattered throughout, and her face was adorned with dark makeup, giving her an initially intimidating appearance. However, her bright smile shattered that initial facade.
"I'm sorry, Evelyn," Victorie apologized, her tone regretful. "My sister needs me in the kitchen. It was lovely talking to you. Perhaps we'll run into each other at Hogwarts when we get back. I'm in Ravenclaw, seventh year." Before Eve could respond, Victorie was whisked away, leaving Eve sitting alone on the sofa. She folded her hands in her lap and surveyed the room, wondering where Albus had disappeared to.
Eve spotted Albus engrossed in conversation with some other boys near a door leading outside. Determined not to be left alone, she swiftly rose from her seat and navigated her way across the room to where Albus stood.
"So, are you guys up for a quick game of Quidditch before dinner's ready?" inquired a blonde-haired boy whom Eve didn't recognize, though she surmised he must be Victorie's brother.
A second boy joined the conversation, his complexion a shade darker than the rest, indicating that he was likely one of George's children. "We don't have enough players; there are only five of us," he added.
"We can always ask a few of our parents to join in. Honestly, we only need ten players. Two chasers and one beater per team will work," James proposed with a hint of authority in his voice, attempting to assume the role of a leader. The other four boys readily nodded in agreement.
Eve quietly approached Albus, aiming to blend into the background without interrupting their conversation. Sensing a presence behind him, Albus swiftly turned, a warm smile gracing his face. Then, as if a lightbulb had just lit up in his mind, he had an idea.
"I'm taking Eve on my team. She can be a beater; she's got quite an arm," Albus declared with confidence. Eve's eyes widened at the realization of his words. "I don't know how to play Quidditch," she quietly admitted to Albus. He waved off her concerns, saying, "It's easy. All you have to do is whack those black balls at the players who aren't on our team." He wore a reassuring smile, making it sound simpler than it actually was.
Reluctant to dampen the spirits of the group, Eve agreed to participate, despite her uncertainty about the game. As the four adults—Harry, Charlie, George, and Ronald—were persuaded to join in, the group ventured out into the chilly, snow-covered backyard where a makeshift Quidditch pitch had been arranged. It featured six hoops crafted from old tractor tires mounted on tall posts.
Eve yanked her Slytherin woolly hat down to shield her ears from the biting cold air as she trudged over the hard, snow-covered ground. With a playful nudge to Albus, she attempted to capture his attention. "You only wanted to play so you could try out your new broom, didn't you?" Albus, wrapping his free arm around Eve, replied, "Of course, I did. And when I defeat my dad and brother, I'll have all the bragging rights. It's going to be glorious."
Moments later, everyone mounted their brooms and ascended into the crisp winter air. Eve was handed a wooden bat and instructed to take her position on the left side of the field until the game commenced. Arthur Weasley, undeterred by the cold, stepped outside to officiate the game. He released the golden snitch, which, in truth, appeared more coppery than golden. Then, he set free two small black balls that emitted ear-piercing sounds as they zipped around the pitch.
Eve caught a glimpse of Albus gesturing toward the black balls, mimicking a striking motion, all while keeping his eyes on her. She nodded in response, understanding that was her role.
Then, without warning, Arthur launched the red Quaffle into the air, igniting the game. Eve was taken aback as brooms darted all around her in a frenzy, passing by at astonishing speeds, leaving her in a disorienting whirl. After managing to regain control of her broom, she focused on her mission: "Hit the black balls," she repeated to herself, the words echoing in the frigid air like frosty reminders of her task.
Observing one of the bludgers hurtling directly toward Victoire's brother, Louis, Eve sprang into action. Swiftly, she jolted her broom into a near-vertical position, applying the brakes to stop her momentum. In a deft spin, she maneuverer her broom and steered it in the right direction. With mere seconds to spare, Eve dove in and smacked the bludger away from Louis. In gratitude, he offered a swift nod of appreciation before darting off in pursuit of the Quaffle.
Feeling good by the success of her first bludger strike, Eve perched herself a bit higher on her broom, gaining confidence. "This Quidditch game is kind of fun," she muttered to herself. Her enjoyment was short-lived, though, as she swiftly ducked to evade a bludger launched at her by the opposing team's Beater, Fred, one of George's kids. An undercurrent of anger coursed through her, prompting Eve to release one hand from her broom and direct it at Fred's broom.
Before she could act on her frustration, a small, rational voice in her mind gently reminded her to let go of anger; it could be perilous. She opted to heed this advice, lowering her arm. At that very moment, Albus and Harry zoomed overhead, locked in an epic duel for the elusive snitch. Father and son raced side by side, their brooms slicing through the brisk air as they chased after the snitch with determination.
Eve was so engrossed in cheering Albus on that she momentarily forgot her own role in the game, sitting atop her broom, lost in the excitement. Her reverie was interrupted by a resounding cheer from the opposing team as they scored a goal. James glided down to Eve's side with a chuckle. "Perhaps if you focus more on the game and less on my brother, you might stand a better chance," he teased.
Eve's face contorted into a determined expression as she furrowed her brow, muttering under her breath, "I'll show you."
Determined to demonstrate to James that she could indeed focus on the game, Eve kicked into high gear. She darted through the air at top speed, intercepting bludgers from all directions and sending them crashing into the opposing players, disrupting their control and sending them into dizzying spins. Eve became a formidable presence on the pitch, unyielding and relentless.
Positioned between Charlie and Louis, her team's chasers, she skilfully deflected bludgers aimed in their direction, ensuring they could concentrate on their offensive plays without the constant threat of the rogue balls.
"YES!" Eve erupted in cheer as Charlie skilfully slotted a magnificent shot past Ron, their opponent's keeper. Offering a quick high-five to her teammates as she passed by them. Spotting James on the other side of the pitch she flashed him a toothy grin and a wink, leaving him fuming with anger. A swift glance to her left revealed Albus and Harry once more locked in a fierce skirmish for the snitch, their brooms skimming mere inches above the snow-covered ground. The speed at which they raced created a flurry of snow in their wake. Harry extended his hand, making a desperate lunge for the elusive snitch.
Rookie move, Albus mused, as he made himself as streamline as possible on his broom, leveraging air resistance to his advantage. This tactical shift granted him a slight edge, enough to throw off his father. As the snitch veered right, Albus executed a rapid, sharp turn, creating a shower of snow that momentarily blinded and halted Harry, effectively giving Albus the upper hand in the pursuit of the elusive snitch.
Moments later, Albus soared to the centre of the pitch, snitch firmly in hand, surrounded by jubilant cheers from his teammates. As Eve observed the scene, she began to grasp why Albus cherished this sport so dearly. The rush of adrenaline and the camaraderie among the team members were exhilarating, leaving her with a sense of amazement. For a moment, she contemplated the possibility of trying out for the Slytherin Quidditch team when they returned to school in January.
Once they had touched down on the ground and stowed their brooms in the shed, the group collectively retreated indoors, seeking warmth and sustenance. As Eve pushed the backdoor of the Burrow ajar, she was met with an enchanting aroma that seemed almost mesmerizing, drawing her in like a siren's call. Without a second thought, she followed the irresistible scent, which led her straight into the dining room.
A generously proportioned wooden table, adorned with a vibrant patchwork fabric, was set with an assortment of multi-coloured metal cutlery at every place setting. The table itself was adorned with a lavish spread of culinary delights, including pies, cakes, cookies, chicken, turkey, ham, and a diverse array of vegetables, all creatively displayed in an array of distinctive glassware. It was a feast that would have made even a king's mouth water.
As the boys and Eve entered the room, Molly Weasley couldn't help but tut at their dishevelled appearance, their clothes adorned with a mix of snow and mud. Swiftly, she waved her wand over each one of them as they passed, instantly restoring their cleanliness. With a sense of urgency, everyone scrambled for an unoccupied spot at the table, where the seating arrangement was on a first-come, first-served basis. Unfortunately, this meant that Eve couldn't secure a seat next to Albus.
Seizing the nearest available chair, Eve settled into her seat, a napkin hovering gracefully onto her lap. Positioned in front of her, a pitcher of water awaited her nod to signify her desire for a refill. As she gave a subtle nod, the pitcher descended toward her glass, pouring its contents gracefully before floating off to cater to the next person once the task was accomplished.
Seated at the far end of the table, Eve found herself with only one person on her left and none on her right. She turned toward the woman to her left, offering a friendly greeting. This lady had a mane of brown, bushy hair pulled back into a neat ponytail, and she appeared to be a striking woman in her late thirties. She carried herself with grace as she engaged in a lively conversation across the table with the man who was playing keeper for the opposing team. He sported ginger hair and a meticulously groomed full beard, the same man to whom Rose had handed the tray of cookies earlier.
"Pleasure to meet you, Mr. and Mrs. Weasley-Granger," Eve greeted, her voice laced with hope that she had gotten their names correctly. The two adults promptly swivelled their attention toward the young girl with vibrant purple hair, and for a moment, Eve held her breath. As soon as their smiles appeared, she exhaled in relief, reassured that she had indeed remembered their names correctly.
"You're Rose's friend, right? She's told us all about you," Ron chimed in, waving a chicken leg in her direction.
Eve nodded in agreement, her eyes reflecting a hint of longing. "Rose is one of my closest friends, and it's a pity she's in Gryffindor. I don't get to see her as much as I'd like." Hermione offered Eve a warm smile and continued, "I'm delighted she's making such wonderful friends like you. She hasn't always had the easiest time making friends" Hermione's countenance becoming sad as she glanced towards Ron, who was not paying attention to the conversation anymore.
As she turned back to face Eve she hesitated slightly before asking a question "Do you happen to know Who Rose has been spending hours every night talking to on the phone, she will not tell me, and she tells me that it's none of my business"
A sudden shout echoed down the table, and Rose's voice pierced the air. "It's none of your business. Mum!" she exclaimed after hearing her mother's inquiry. Rose's face betrayed a mix of annoyance and anger, emotions that Eve recognized all too well and wisely chose to avoid.
Hermione quickly flashed a smile and returned her focus to her meal, evidently brushing off their previous conversation. Uncertain of how to proceed, Eve began to eat her dinner in silence, making an effort to eavesdrop on the various conversations around her. However, with the cacophony of voices filling the room, it proved to be a challenging endeavour.
Following dinner, Eve felt increasingly overwhelmed by the noise and the crowd, and her mood began to sour. Opting to distance herself from the hustle and bustle, she ventured out into the chilly evening. Spotting a bench in the distance beneath a wilting tree, she made her way through the snow toward it.
After brushing the snow off the bench with the sleeves of her coat, Eve settled down. At first, the cold against her bottom stung, then quickly gave way to numbness. Gazing into the distance, she watched the wind dance through the trees, its soft whistle as it rustled the branches gradually calming her racing thoughts. As she rested her hands on her legs, a small, golden bubble enveloped her without her conscious awareness.
This peculiar bubble created a separate passage of time for Eve, allowing her to linger in this moment while time continued its course for everyone else. With a few deep inhales and even deeper exhales, she started to unwind. Her mind cleared and a sense of tranquillity washed over her. For once, there were no visions, no voices, just serenity.
After what felt like an hour spent in the crisp outdoors, Eve decided it was time to return inside. She couldn't help but feel a bit perplexed that no one had noticed her absence for over an hour. Upon pushing the backdoor open and discovering everyone inside exactly as she had left them, her face twisted in bewilderment. She couldn't quite comprehend what had transpired, except for a sense that her magic had played a part in it. It was yet another matter she would have to discuss with Charlie.
Eve re-immersed herself in the bustling crowd, determined to make the most of her newfound good mood and engage in some meaningful conversations with the people around her.
As the evening began to wind down, and many of the adults gathered their children, bidding their farewells and using the Floo Network to depart, the Potters determined it was time for their departure as well. Eve took the opportunity to say her goodbyes to those she could spot. In the midst of this, Arthur Weasley approached her, his eyes warm with gratitude, and he expressed his thanks for the wonderful conversation they had shared about Muggle inventions.
After a quick Floo journey back to the Potters' house, Eve decided to call it an early night, feeling tired from the Quidditch match and perhaps indulging in a bit too much food. She bid goodnight to everyone and planted a sweet kiss on Albus's cheek before retiring to her room. As she lay her head on the pillow, she reflected on the day and found herself smiling. It had turned out much better than she had initially expected. Albus's extended family had proven to be wonderful, kind people, and the atmosphere had been carefree and joyous. She eagerly anticipated the next time they would all meet again.
Over the next few days, not much of significance unfolded. On New Year's Eve, the Potters and Eve headed to the London embankment to witness the spectacular fireworks display. To everyone's surprise, James had brought a girl named Isabella Sterling from his year to join them for the evening. Isabella had long, flowing black hair that cascaded down to her waist, and she turned out to be delightful company—easy to talk to and genuinely kind.
As the clock struck midnight, the celebratory tradition of kissing swept through the crowd, except for Lily, who was struggling to keep her eyes open as it was far past her usual bedtime. However, she still delighted in the brilliant fireworks display, as did everyone else. Even James and Isabella, when they weren't engaged in passionate kissing, though they occasionally received light-hearted scolding for their over rambunctious kissing.
After the New Year's festivities, on the 2nd of January, Ginny called out from downstairs, "Eve, are you almost ready? We need to leave in 5 minutes." Eve's voice, somewhat flustered, drifted down the stairs in response, "Yes, just one more minute—I'm almost ready." She was in the midst of adjusting the straps on her dress, having chosen to wear a modest black dress with a white belt and a lightly flowing skirt that reached down to her knees. She wanted to look sharp for her first visit to the Ministry, understanding that it was the epicentre of magic in England and a place of great significance. First impressions, she knew, were crucial.
Staring at her reflection in the mirror, Eve couldn't help but feel self-conscious. She had never worn a dress before and turned side to side, scrutinizing every inch of herself. Her uncertainty gnawed at her, and she bit her lip, contemplating whether she should change into something else.
"Evelyn, we have to leave this instant! What's taking you so long?" Ginny's voice resounded from downstairs, its urgency spurring Eve into action. Despite her lingering doubts about her appearance, she dashed out the door, understanding the need to be punctual.
Descending the staircase in her ballerina flats, Eve was brought to a halt at the bottom of the steps. Ginny couldn't help but gush over her, "You look absolutely beautiful, dear. Albus is a lucky boy. Harry, sweetheart, doesn't she look lovely?" She directed her question at her husband, who was seated in front of the television, as he didn't have to work that day. Harry turned his attention from the TV and cast his eyes out into the hallway, taking in Eve's appearance.
"Yes, she looks lovely. She's growing into a fine young woman," Harry remarked before swiftly returning his focus to the television. Their conversation was briefly interrupted by a loud honk, which jolted them into action.
"The cab's here. Quickly, let's go!" Ginny exclaimed urgently, guiding Eve out the door and down the steps. They piled into the waiting cab, eager to begin their journey to the Ministry.
The rain pelted the windshield of the car as it navigated the bustling streets of London. After a brief drive, Ginny and Eve were dropped off outside of Great Scotland Yard, where the visitor entrance for the Ministry of Magic was located.
With discretion in mind, Ginny guided Eve into a red British phone box. The space inside was rather cramped for two people, but it served its purpose. Ginny inserted a knut into the coin slot and spun the rotary phone dial once, landing on the number 7.
Suddenly, the floor of the phone booth began to descend. Eve watched as the street moved from eye level to nothing but a brick wall. For a tense 30 seconds, the telephone box continued to lower until it gently descended into a long tunnel. The tunnel was adorned with black pearlescent tiles that flickered with a mesmerizing green glow when struck by light. The scene within was a cacophony of hundreds of people bustling about, creating a quiet yet chaotic atmosphere.
As the phone booth finally touched down on the tunnel floor, Ginny swiftly stepped out, taking Eve's hand and guiding her through the commotion. Taking in her surroundings, Eve noticed a few dozen large fireplaces lining the tunnel walls on both sides, their exteriors adorned with intricate golden details. People flowed in and out of these fireplaces every few seconds, contributing to the overall hustle and bustle of the scene.
Navigating through the Ministry during this busy time of day felt like a daunting task, but Ginny knew that catching Silas without an appointment meant getting to him first thing in the morning. Increasing her pace, she moved swiftly, keeping a tight grip on Eve, who walked beside her.
Upon entering the main Atrium, Eve's eyes widened in awe as she took in the breathtaking view before her. The sheer scale of the room was difficult to comprehend. They had descended below London for just 30 seconds, but the room stretched for what felt like miles above her head. Multiple stories of bay windows protruded into the central area, offering a stunning view of the majestic fountain at the room's centre. Beautiful golden statues loomed tall within the water, their eyes seemingly following you as you passed by.
Two expansive openings on either side of the central hub led to rooms of similar size and appearance to the one Eve currently occupied. Before she could become too overwhelmed by the grandeur of the area, she was pulled along toward a wall adorned with at least ten elevators.
As the elevator doors chimed open, a dozen flying paper airplanes darted out in all directions, causing a few people in front to duck out of the way. Eve overheard one man muttering, "I can't wait until they start using texts. It's so much easier than those blasted airplanes."
Squeezing into the nearly full lift, Ginny and Eve had to inhale and make themselves as slim as possible to fit. Just as the elevator was about to close, a high-pitched voice rang out, "Hold the lift!" With only inches to spare before the doors shut completely, a small hand prevented them from closing. As the doors reopened, a collective sigh escaped from the occupants, but Eve's face beamed with delight. "Charlie!" she squealed.
He responded with a quick nod, tucking a newspaper under his arm. "Hello, Evelyn. Fancy seeing you here. We don't have an appointment, do we?"
Before Eve could respond, the elevator was filled with soft chuckles, and an older gentleman spoke up, asking, "Where are your parents, little Charlie? Are you lost? Going to cry? Do you need your blankie or your bottle?" This led to a fit of laughter erupting in the elevator.
Charlie's previously pleasant expression transformed into one of anger in an instant. He kicked the man who had spoken in the shins and snapped, "Every damn day, Mike! Will you give it a rest?" His reprimand brought an abrupt silence back to the elevator.
Suddenly, the elevator veered sideways instead of its usual up and down motion. The unexpected shift caught Eve off guard, causing her to stumble into the men on her left. The unfamiliar sensation made her stomach churn, and she clutched Ginny's hand tightly. The elevator then made another unusual movement and abruptly came to a halt.
"Floor 3, Department of Magical Accidents and Catastrophes," a monotonous and drained voice echoed from the back of the elevator.
"This is us, Eve. Quickly, before it moves again," Ginny whispered urgently. Eve wasted no time and made a dash for the third floor, eager to put the lift experience behind her.
"Can we take the stairs next time?" Eve sputtered out.
"You get used to it after a while. Sorry, I forgot to warn you about the lifts," Ginny said, placing a comforting arm around Eve's shoulder and guiding her down a long corridor with a curved roof.
After passing numerous offices and intriguing-sounding rooms, Ginny and Eve reached their destination: an office adorned with a golden plaque bearing the name "Silas Tendris." Eve looked at it quizzically, and Ginny nodded in affirmation. "Yes, that's who we're here to see. I'm hoping he'll be able to help you. He's certainly skilled in the mind arts." Ginny rapped her knuckles on the door and waited patiently for it to open.
The door creaked open, revealing a tall and slender figure who seemed to fill the entire doorway. His most prominent features were his cold expression and hooded eyes. However, the moment he laid eyes on Ginny, the frigid demeanour transformed into a warm one.
"Ginny! What a pleasant surprise. I don't have you pencilled in for today, do I?" Silas asked, his voice perky and upbeat.
"No, we don't have an appointment. I was hoping you'd be free right now, and I was wondering if I could cash in that Favor—no questions asked," Ginny said, giving him a pointed look. Silas promptly shifted to the side to grant entry to his office, and the two women entered, closing the door behind them. They settled into the blood-red leather armchairs placed in front of his desk.
Silas rounded his desk and settled into his chair. The window behind him offered a view of the central atrium, which had grown considerably more crowded since their arrival. Silas spun slightly in his chair, tracking Eve's line of sight.
"First time at the Ministry, I presume?" he asked. Eve shifted in her seat, feeling a tad uneasy.
"She's not one of your bunch, is she, Gin?" Silas inquired, his gaze moving up and down Ginny.
"No, she's staying with us for Christmas. This meeting is about her, actually," Ginny replied, turning in her seat to face Eve.
Silas leaned forward on his desk, his elbows spread apart, and his fingertips touching. "Interesting. Do go on," he said, addressing his question to Ginny but keeping his gaze on Eve.
"I need you to look into her mind and find a mental connection with another witch and then serve it. Can you do that?" Ginny asked with a serious and unwavering tone.
Silas leaned back in his chair and let out a scoff before replying, "Can I... Of course, I can." He stood up, walked over to where Eve was sitting, and placed two fingers on either side of her head. "I could lie and tell you this isn't going to hurt. But it's going to hurt. A lot."
A split second later, Eve felt an uncomfortable pressure building in her head. This mind intrusion was unlike anything she had experienced with Professor Inkwood, who had been gentle. Silas, in contrast, was ruthless and precise, getting to the point as quickly as possible, even if it meant causing pain.
Eve clenched the armchair's sides, her fingernails biting into the unyielding leather. Her toes curled inside her flats, while tears flowed down her cheeks. It wasn't sadness that caused her tears but the searing pain that felt like her mind was engulfed in flames. The man behind her ruthlessly delved into her thoughts, rearranging and pulling apart the pieces of her mind.
In agony, Eve let out a piercing scream, causing Ginny to gently place a comforting hand on top of Eve's, though it did little to alleviate the escalating pain. Tremors overtook her, her vision growing blurry as consciousness slipped in and out of her grasp.
As Silas delved deeper into Eve's mind, an unsettling sensation washed over him, as if unseen eyes were fixated on him, concealed in the shadows, ready to pounce at any moment when his guard was down. He whispered in a hushed tone, "My god," realizing that the connection between Hera and Eve defied anything he had encountered before. The magic at play here was ancient and dark, its tendrils coiling around Eve's own magic, attempting to suffocate it. While the connection was formidable, Silas, with his extensive years of practice, ranked among the world's best when it came to handling mind-related anomalies would prevail.
With meticulous care, Silas began to sever the threads of the connection, slowly weakening it over time. The process was painstaking and demanded over an hour of intense focus; a single misstep could have turned Eve into a mere vegetable. Thus, he had to proceed cautiously, one precise cut at a time.
"It's done," he exhaled, his voice trembling as he withdrew his fingers and inadvertently leaned back, colliding with the wine cabinet, which fortunately prevented his collapse. After regaining his composure, he asked, "I know you said no questions, but how can an eleven-year-old have such a significant reservoir of dark magic within her mind? What on earth is going on here Ginny?"
Ginny sprang from her seat, her grip firm as she helped the dazed and weary Eve to her feet. "No questions," she snapped with a nod of gratitude, and then guided them both out the door. They strode down the hallway toward the elevators.
Desiring to return Eve home as swiftly as possible, Ginny contemplated using the Floo network. However, considering Eve's fragile condition, she opted for a safer approach. They made their way to the visitor's entrance, bridging the magical and muggle worlds, and from there, they hailed a cab to head home. While not the fastest option, it was certainly the safest given the circumstances.
Upon returning home, Eve sought refuge in her bed to rest for a few hours. Her mind felt like scrambled eggs, but a faint, triumphant smirk clung to her lips. She had finally severed the connection with Hera and could now rejoin her family. With just two days left before her return to Hogwarts, time was precious, but right now, she needed sleep more than anything.
By the time Eve awoke, it was late evening. She blinked her eyes open, and her vision gradually sharpened to reveal the emerald eyes of Albus, slightly out of focus. She blinked a few times, and the room slowly came into focus. Albus softly chuckled and said, "Glad to see you're alive." Eve playfully pushed him and replied, "Of course I'm alive. I have to annoy you some more before I go." She beamed a smile at him.
Albus inquired, "Is it really true that you've gotten rid of Hera from your head?" Eve nodded in response, her eyes welling up with unexplained tears. Albus gently wiped away a stray tear with his sleeve and kissed her lips tenderly for a few seconds. "I'm glad you're okay," he said before pausing and producing a letter from his back pocket. "This came for you while you were asleep."
He handed Eve a letter addressed to her. She turned it in her hand, a puzzled expression crossing her face. It was only when she noticed the Hogwarts seal on the back that she ripped open the letter without hesitation and pulled out the parchment inside. As she unfolded it and began to read, her eyes widened.
"Your grandfather's awake. He's asking for you."