As the trio stepped into the depths of the magical bag, the atmosphere shifted into something almost ethereal. Daphne descended a wooden ladder, its rungs obscured by a swirling white mist that gave the impression they were sinking into the very heart of heaven itself.

Fleur followed, her steps slower and more measured, fatigue evident in her movements. Hermione brought up the rear, her eyes scanning their surroundings with a mix of curiosity and caution.

Daphne turned to Fleur, patting her back, "So, how do you like your new home?"

Fleur let out a soft groan, barely masking her exhaustion. "Better than before," she managed.

Hermione shot Daphne a sharp glance, her tone stern, "Behave, Scamander."

Daphne's eyes widened in mock surprise as she covered her mouth with her hand. "Oops," she said, her expression one of exaggerated innocence.

Fleur's lips curled into a faint smile despite her weariness. "It's alright. She didn't know."

Daphne's gaze softened as she looked at Fleur. "Oh, yes, I really do like this… naked— I mean, new girl. Fleur, you're so kind and delicate, like a fairy."

Hermione rolled her eyes, unable to suppress a sigh as Daphne's antics continued.

Ignoring Hermione's exasperation, Daphne moved towards an archway crafted from broken twigs, their natural imperfections woven together in a way that seemed both whimsical and welcoming. "Welcome to my den," she announced with a flourish.

As Hermione and Fleur stepped into the open area, they were greeted by a scene of enchanting tranquility. The space was a picturesque haven, adorned with rustic chairs and tables, all nestled within a grove of lush trees. The soft, dappled sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting gentle patterns on the ground.

Bowtruckles flitted among the branches, their tiny, delicate forms darting in and out of view. Nearby, a lively group of Nifflers scampered and hopped about with exuberant energy, their shiny, curious eyes twinkling as they tumbled around like playful rabbits.

Fleur's gaze was drawn to a peculiar creature peeking out from behind a log. Its resemblance to an orangutan was unmistakable. "What's that?"

Before Daphne could answer, the creature vanished in a shimmer of invisibility.

"That must be a demiguise," Daphne explained with a touch of amusement. "They're incredibly shy and turn invisible whenever they feel threatened."

As if on cue, a Clabbert—a small, furry creature with a mischievous glint in its eyes—bounded onto one of the tables. It began performing an enthusiastic series of somersaults, its furry body spinning gracefully through the air.

Hermione muttered under her breath, her frustration barely concealed. "Oh, your perv Watson," she said, her words a sharp whisper but loud enough for Daphne to catch the edge of her irritation.

Fleur took in the serene surroundings with a fond smile. "This place is truly beautiful. It reminds me of home. My school."

Hermione, her curiosity piqued, asked, "I never knew much about your school. What is it like?"

Fleur's smile broadened. "Oh, you could say it's a blend of elegance and magic, that's Beauxbatons in a nutshell."

Daphne chimed in with a nod. "Oh, I know that much."

Fleur nodded in agreement. "Yes, that's essentially it. We have a lot of spells, of course. We practice them a bit differently from how you do at Hogwarts. And we don't have dangerous things like the Forbidden Forest or the Whomping Willow."

Daphne cut in with a grin. "Actually, danger is what makes Hogwarts so much fun. Not to offend, of course. I'm neither a student nor a promoter of Hogwarts—just an employee at the moment."

Fleur's smile remained unchanged, unbothered by the comment. "Don't worry. I like Hogwarts too. But here's a fun fact for both of you: in ancient times, Beauxbatons was considered even more prestigious and formidable than Hogwarts."

Hermione's interest was piqued further, "What changed?"

Fleur's expression grew somber as she spoke. "Our prized magical creature, the Skarooths, went extinct."

Daphne's eyes widened, her curiosity piqued by the revelation. "Who?"

Fleur's tone was surprisingly casual as she replied, "Skarooths."

Hermione's mind raced. She had encountered a Skarooth a week ago, a fact she had kept to herself. Should she reveal this now? After spending time with both Daphne and Fleur, piecing together the connections and understanding their backgrounds, it seemed like the right moment to share her experience.

Daphne broke the silence, her voice tinged with concern. "Hermione, that's the second time we've mentioned Skarooths."

Hermione took a deep breath, her gaze shifting between her companions. "Guys, I think I need to tell you something. Skarooths aren't just something I've read or heard about. I've actually seen one."

Both Daphne and Fleur stared at Hermione - WHAT THE HELL! REALLY?