mischief managed

  • mikrokosmos.

    mikrokosmos. (100)

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    Ember Holt • Gryffindor / & \ Luke Hemmings • Gryffindor
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    Astoria Spedding • Hufflepuff / & \ Calum Hood • Ravenclaw
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    Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times,
    if one only remembers to turn on the light.

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    Rowan Chandler • Ravenclaw / & \ Ashton Irwin • Slytherin
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    Euphemia Smith • Slytherin / & \ Michael Clifford • Hufflepuff
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    January 24th, 2019 at 01:34am
  • overcome.

    overcome. (100)

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    Calum adjusted his Prefect badge on his robe, having gotten a little disheveled during his patrol of the Hogwarts Express, because a few of the First Years had been running around and it had taken quite a bit to get them to calm down. A part of him made a mental note to keep an eye on those troublemakers, amusement flashing across his expression with the thought. As he made his way through the Great Hall, though, his eyes scanning over the crowds, he nodded to a few students that he knew. His eyes fell on Astoria Spedding, though, and he chewed on his lip; he'd had a crush on her since their Third Year, but he'd never been brave enough to approach her about it. He did speak to her occasionally in passing, though, so he smiled as he passed her, figuring it wouldn't be farfetched to speak to her. “Hi, Astoria,” he greeted, pausing in his steps instead of proceeding to the Ravenclaw table, “How did your summer go?”

    Michael was making his way to the Great Hall, taking his time, walking leisurely, not at all in a rush because it would be a while yet before the actual dinner started, anyways. First, the First Year students would have to be welcomed and sorted, then they'd be allowed to eat, but, really, Michael was looking forward to eating all that he could tonight. Meals at Hogwarts were always delicious and he couldn't think of a single reason to complain. Entering the Great Hall, he felt his heart swell at the sight of all the people, all the commotion, and he grinned broadly as he made his way to the Hufflepuff table, pausing when he accidentally bumped into somebody - a girl, whom he knew of but never really spoke to, Euphemia Smith. “Sorry about that,” he told her, offering an apologetic smile.

    Ember wore a broad grin as she walked into the Great Hall, hoping for a great year. She was, above all else, looking forward to seeing what new students the Gryffindor house got. The Great Hall was already loud and the students were already rambunctious and Ember loved it. The noise, the excitement, it all brought Ember a sense of feeling at home, of feeling like she belonged. Finding an empty seat, she sat down and glanced around, taking in the sight of her peers, most of them eagerly talking amongst themselves, but all of her closer friends were in different houses and she hadn't spotted them yet.

    Rowan walked into the Great Hall after straightening her clothes and her Prefect badge, her head held high. She was excited for another year at Hogwarts, eager to see what the year had in store, and eager to learn. As she headed to the Ravenclaw table, she tried to avoid bumping into any of the other students, because everybody was moving around, bustling and bumbling to talk to each other and catch up with what they'd each done over the summer. “Excuse me,” she said as she tried to squeeze past a few students to get to the table to sit down.
    January 24th, 2019 at 06:50am
  • mikrokosmos.

    mikrokosmos. (100)

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    To say that Astoria was excited to be returning to Hogwarts for her fifth year was an understatement. She had enjoyed her summer, spent in a cottage by the sea; but returning to Hogwarts to study magic - actual magic - was still a dream come true, despite already coming to greet her fifth year. Sitting at the Hufflepuff table, having saved a space for Michael Clifford, Astoria took the moment of silence (which was rare, with a friend like Mikey) to study The Great Hall - all of her closer friends were in separate houses to herself, and Astoria wondered if she could catch anyone's eye. First years would be arriving at any moment to be sorted into their houses, led by Minerva McGonagall, and Astoria was looking forward to see how many new faces she'd be seeing around the common room this year. Hearing a familiar voice though, Astoria smiled as she looked up to Calum Hood, a Ravenclaw, fifth year - like herself - and devastatingly handsome. To say she harboured a bit of a crush towards him was a lie, because the crush was so much bigger than she made out to be. "Hi, Calum." Astoria greeted, her smile broadening at the sight of him. "Wow, look at you. Prefect at last." She teased. "My summer was wonderful, thank you. Quite cold down in Cornwall. How was yours?" She tucked a stray strand of dark hair behind her ear with their interaction.

    Luke had said his goodbyes to his friends as they departed the Hogwarts Express, and as he walked into the Great Hall, Luke couldn't help the grin that formed on his features. Hogwarts was his home, as far as he was concerned, and coming back every year was just as wonderful as the year before. Of course, his summer had been perfectly fine, but his parents still, despite having had five years to adjust, couldn't wrap their heads around the whole 'wizard' thing. According to Luke's maternal grandmother, Luke is the first one to possess magical abilities in the family for centuries, and that stirred a sense of pride within the boy. The returning feast was always a time of excitement - Luke loved welcoming the first years, because - Merlin's beard - they needed a good example to look to. Hogwarts was a place so rich in history, it deserved respect. Although Luke could admit that he dabbled into rebellion here and there, he made a point to ensure he was never too rambunctious and carefree. Approaching the Gryffindor table, Luke high-fived one of his Quidditch teammates, before finding an empty seat, opposite a girl he recognised as Ember Holt. "Good evening, Ember." Luke offered the girl a grin, his robes neat despite the look of mischief that seemed to have a permanent residence within his striking blue eyes. "How was your summer?" He asked. He'd seen Ember around, but he'd never really spoken to her - they shared classes, some with their mutual friends, others just the two of them, but Luke was never one to miss out on a conversation with anybody, what would be the fun in that? "Excited for fifth year?"

    Euphemia straightened out her green and silver tie as she entered the Great Hall with the grace and confidence only a Slytherin could have. Euphemia took great pride in her house - having come from a long line of Slytherins on both sides of the Smith and Black family, respectfully. Of course, there was some sort of stigma surrounding the serpent, but Euphemia didn't listen to such rubbish. Her father had told her on her first day to be mindful of her studies and her attitude and she was sure to go far. Ensuring her hair was still tied up into a conservative bun, Euphemia studied the tables of the other houses as she walked, and she couldn't help but feel excitement grow within the pit of her stomach for the upcoming year. Summer had been a long once, accompanying her mother to the Ministry of Magic almost every day, and Euphemia was grateful to be around people of her own age once more. Weaving between bodies to get to the Slytherin table, Euphemia made a noise of surprise when she felt herself collide with another student, but hearing his words, his voice, Euphemia blinked, her gaze focusing on Michael Clifford, a half-blood Hufflepuff who had the most charming smile and enduring personality. Euphemia had held a crush on Michael for a long time, despite the fact she knew her parents would be disapproving of an unworthy choice of lover, but Euphemia was old enough to think for herself now. "Oh, Michael," Euphemia smiled, tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear. "You scared me." She laughed, returning his smile. "It's alright, honestly. Did you have a good summer?"

    Ashton Irwin was the definition of smug - at least he admitted to it. He came from two long lines of Slytherins, and when he was sorted in Slytherin on his first day, all he could think of is how he would be continuing a great legacy, because not one pureblood wizarding family didn't know the Irwin name. And of that, Ashton was proud. His tie - silver and green in colour - was tied neatly, the colours bold against his white shirt and black robes. Ashton walked through the Great Hall with his head held high, because there was no shame in being a Slytherin, to quote his father, and his grandfather before him. Weaving skillfully through other students, Ashton studied the tables of the other three houses with a slight sneer on his face. How miserable it must be, to not be of a pure heritage, to have dirty blood run through your veins. What a disgrace. Shaking his head at the thought, Ashton paused as he collided with someone, in between the Ravenclaw and the Slytherin tables. Turning to see who he'd be expecting an apology from, Ashton's eyebrows furrowed as he came to see Rowan Chandler - he was only aware of her because she was in his Potions class for two years in a row. "Be careful," Ashton sneered. "I don't want you tainting me."
    January 25th, 2019 at 12:24am
  • overcome.

    overcome. (100)

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    Calum could physically feel his expression brighten, his grin broadening across his features in a way that only Astoria could cause. “Yeah, it's a little surreal. I'm still surprised about it, honestly, but excited, too,” he admitted. Really, it was an honor and he fully intended to take it seriously because, while he knew he didn't normally take much seriously, he wanted to prove that he deserved the title. And, admittedly, a part of him was hoping to impress Astoria - he wanted her to know that he was a guy worth receiving attention from her, and he wanted to maintain that attention from her as much as he could. “Yeah? What did you do?” He grinned, wanting to hear everything that he could about her summer experience, but also wanting to prolong the conversation as much as he could because her voice was the most enticing and addictive thing to listen to. “Mine was good. I mostly spent it with my family at home, but we had a few beach days and those were fun. My sister had a blast burying me in the sand.” He laughed with the thought, though a part of him knew the summer would have been so much better if he'd gotten to spend any amount of it with Astoria. And, in that moment, he wanted to pour out his thoughts and his feelings but he held back, chewing on his lip, deciding it would be best to wait for the perfect timing to declare something like that.

    Ember lifted her gaze when she heard somebody greet her by name, curious to who it was, though she grinned slightly when she realized it was Luke. They weren't especially friends, but they shared a common friend in a certain Albus Potter, so they occasionally got to spend time together. “Luke, hello,” she greeted, arching a brow. “Lucky me, getting to sit near somebody who can probably stretch across the table to steal food. No stealing, okay?” She grinned teasingly, though, and settled down, relaxing now that she had somebody to talk to and didn't have to get lost in all the bustling and bumbling around her or aimlessly search for her own friends. “I did, actually! I got to work part time for a cafe that my father's friend runs. It was a surprisingly relaxing experience and I got to save up in the process. Did you enjoy your summer?” Admittedly, she was genuinely curious, wondering if he'd had a more interesting summer than she had - she knew her summer was rather mediocre, of course, but she'd enjoyed it all the same. “I am, actually. I have a good feeling about this year.” And, her grin returning, she absolutely meant it. But, then, hardly a year had passed at Hogwarts that she hadn't enjoyed. “Are you, though?”

    Michael couldn't help the grin that spread across his features when Euphemia acknowledged him. The girl was absolutely enchanting in everything she did - the way she spoke, the way she moved, the way she carried herself, everything, - and Michael always found himself enjoying being enraptured by her because nobody could possibly compete against the beauty, especially not in his eyes. Unlike most people, Michael didn't see the Slytherin house as cruel or evil or destined to be either - he believed each person made their own path, and he wanted the best for Euphemia. “I apologize, Euphemia,” he told her genuinely, his grin broadening as he examined her, trying to notice any subtle changes that she could have experienced over the summer. A part of him was curious to whether her hair had grown longer but, since it was in a bun, he supposed he'd have to wait until further down the year to discover that. “I did have a good summer. My family traveled a bit - we got to see Stonehenge, it was an amazing sight.” Not nearly as amazing as Euphemia, of course, but he dared not speak that thought aloud - at least not yet, anyways. Perhaps a time in the future, if he ever gathered the bravery to speak his true thoughts about her. “How was your summer, though? Did you enjoy it?” He truly hoped that she had, because he couldn't imagine a soul that would deserve an enjoyable break more than Euphemia did.

    Rowan, prior to the moment she realized who she bumped into, had been hopeful for how the first night back would go. The moment she heard Ashton's voice, though, she inwardly cringed, because of course it had to be Ashton Pureblood-Asshole Irwin that she bumped into. While she hadn't had many encounters with him, she knew, from watching others get hurt by his words, that she didn't want anything to do with him, so she normally steered clear. Her jaw clenched when she processed his words but she did her best to avoid outwardly showing how much his words bothered her and she was sure they would only get worse if she stuck around. “I did say excuse me,” she said firmly, her voice unwavering despite that she didn't feel very confident with spending too much time around him. For a moment, she entertained the idea of finding a reason, any reason, to deduct points from Slytherin because of Ashton, but she wasn't petty like that, so she pushed the thought to the furthest recesses of her mind. “I apologize for bumping into you, but I'd be grateful if you could move perhaps just a little out of the way so that I can get through to sit down. Please.” And, she kept her voice calm, patient, because she didn't want to make this confrontation last any longer than necessary.
    January 25th, 2019 at 02:50am
  • mikrokosmos.

    mikrokosmos. (100)

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    Astoria's smile broadened as she noticed a subtle change in Calum's demeanour. Astoria couldn't help but admire him in that moment - his eyes had a spectacular shine that even the stars couldn't amount to, and Astoria wondered if Calum knew just how she could compare him to constellations and still hold him at the highest regard. When he spoke though, the pride in his voice was what really made Astoria's heart soar. The boy deserved everything good that came his way, she was certain of that. "You'll make a wonderful Prefect, Calum." Astoria complimented, meaning every word, clearly impressed. "We didn't get up to much, really." Astoria shrugged her shoulders with Calum's question, but smiled. "I read a lot, that's for sure." She laughed, biting her lip, but when Calum spoke, Astoria listened, hanging onto his every word, because the way his lips moved, how his voice was the only one Astoria wanted to listen to, it entranced Astoria in a way she couldn't explain. "You like the beach?" Astoria leaned in a little, clearly curious that a pureblood wizard was aware of "Muggle" activities, and when Calum laughed, Astoria couldn't help but grin, biting her lip, wishing she had been there to witness it all. "I'm glad you had a good summer, Cal." Astoria smiled. "Maybe we can catch up sometime this week, in the library?"

    Luke grinned with Ember's words. The fact that she even knew who he was - that a beauty such as Ember knew his name - was still astounding to Luke. "Come now, Ember, you must know by now that I'm a man of my word. I absolutely promise not to reach over and steal your food." Luke offered a confident wink, although Ember made him the opposite of confident. When Luke was around her, all he wanted to do was let go of his over confident ego and show her that he could be someone entirely different. He'd never found anyone worth showing that side of him to, and then when Albus Potter and Rosie Weasley had introduced Luke to Ember, he had found that someone, but he wondered, if he dared open up in such a way, would she be willing to listen? Seeing Ember's teasing grin though, Luke's grin settled to a calm smile, toying with his lower lip as he watched her. "A cafe?" Luke questioned, his grin becoming a little cheeky then. "My, that's a cafe I wish I visited during the summer." He winked, half flirtatious and half jokingly. "I did have a good summer, thank you." Luke nodded. "My brothers and I got into all sorts of trouble, but the beach was a popular choice for my niece, I spent a lot of time in the water." Luke offered an explanation with a grin. "I missed Quidditch though." Hearing her express her good feeling about their fifth year, Luke nodded in agreement. "Oh, definitely." Luke smiled. "It's going to be a good one, I can tell." He grinned. "And if it's not that good, we can make it good."

    Euphemia studied Michael for a long moment, just admiring him. Although she knew that a romance between them would be something along the lines of unlikely, Euphemia could still wish to herself silently that something could form between the two. Michael was the nicest person Euphemia knew, he was always wearing a smile, and his laugh was absolutely enchanting, Euphemia couldn't help but wonder how such perfection existed outside of a fairytale. "There's no need to apologise to me, Michael, are you mad?" Euphemia teased, stepping a little closer to the Hufflepuff boy. "Wow, the Stonehenge?" Euphemia was genuinely intrigued, having a secret adoration for Muggle studies and learning about the outside artifacts, and Stonehenge had been something she'd read a lot about. "I bet it was a wonderful sight." She studied him, noticing the flecks in his eyes and the slight smile he wore on his face, and Euphemia toyed with her lower lip to stop herself sinking further into her own thoughts. Hearing Michael's rebuttal though, Euphemia wished that the ground beneath her would open and swallow her, because she had done absolutely nothing exciting over the summer. "Oh, um." Euphemia shifted. "I spent most of it at the Ministry, actually. With my Mother." She explained, shifting a little anxiously.

    Ashton couldn't help the smirk that formed on his face when he noticed Rowan's jaw clench. Ashton loved getting a reaction - be it good or bad, because it meant people were paying attention to him. "Well, I'm glad to see that for someone of your bloodline, you have manners." Ashton shot back without much of a thought, noticing how Rowan stood her ground, her voice unwavering, and as much as he didn't want to, he admired it about the girl. She was defiant, and Ashton knew that, even when two people couldn't see eye to eye, that was a characteristic to cherish. Hearing her apology, how she kept herself calm, Ashton studied her with a harsh glare for a long moment, trying not to admit to himself that the longer he gazed at her, the more he wanted to get to know her. "Fine." Ashton replied coolly. "As you wish. But you should know, Mudblood, the longer you spend around me, the better you'll become." Ashton shoved past the girl with a harsh shoulder-to-shoulder contact, smoothing out his robes once more as if he'd catch the imaginery disease that was sown into Rowan's skin and swam through her veins. Approaching the Slytherin table, Ashton sat down beside Scorpius, greeting his friend in a much friendlier tone than he had with Rowan. Seeing Euphemia speaking to Michael, Ashton glared at the blonde Hufflepuff boy, rolling his eyes. "Euphemia, get away from that dirt." He made sure that he was loud enough for Michael to hear, wanting to press as many buttons as he could.
    January 25th, 2019 at 03:29am
  • overcome.

    overcome. (100)

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    Calum could feel his heart swell with pride when he heard Astoria’s compliment and he chewed on his lip, unable to help but to stand a little taller, a little straighter, hoping she was right but also hoping that he could live up to her expectations. “Thank you. I really hope you’re right,” he admitted quietly, chewing on his lip still as he watched her, taking her in, amazed by her in every sense, and all he wanted was to make sure that he didn’t disappoint her in any way, only wanting to always see her smile, to see her happy. “Oh? What books did you read? Any recommendations?” He grinned because, while he didn’t always read, he would allow himself to take the opportunities to read when he could, when he wasn’t busy with other activities and, if Astoria recommended anything, he made a mental note to definitely read her recommendations because he wanted her to know that he was genuinely curious about her, about what she liked, and he wanted to try his best to really actively show that he wanted to explore whatever she suggested. “I do, actually!” His grin broadened and he was unable to stop it, because the thought of talking to Astoria as much as possible made his heart swell in the best way and he never wanted to lose that feeling, always amazed by her. “My family likes to try out whatever we can, it always ends in a fun experience.” And, he always loved every moment of all of them, but he knew he would have enjoyed them all the more if he’d been able to spend even just a second of them with Astoria by his side. “I’m glad you had a good summer, too, Astoria.” Hearing her say his nickname, though, he swore his heart had never raced so fast before. “Of course. You just tell me when to meet you in the library and I’ll definitely be there.”

    Ember hummed quietly in acceptance when she heard Luke’s words, and she grinned slightly. “Alright, Luke, I’ll believe you just this once,” she chimed teasingly, though, admittedly, she was just glad to be able to interact like this without their mutual friends around. As much as she adored Albus and Rosie, the fact that she was getting this chance to just enjoy conversation with Luke without all the extra distraction meant more to her than she really thought was possible. There was just something so comforting about Luke’s presence that she wanted to indulge in it, she wanted to be surrounded by it, and she could admit, at least to herself, that she wanted to enjoy every moment of it that she could. “Oh, I’m sure if you would have popped in, I would have gotten fired because I’m certain you would have been a chatterbox and I would have been distracted by you.” And not just by talking to him, she knew that - Luke’s whole presence was distracting but, above all else, his eyes were the most distracting thing in the world, so bright and lively, and Ember swore she could drown in them. “I didn’t even know you have a niece! I bet she’s adorable.” She grinned with the thought, wondering how naturally Luke interacted with his niece, curious but certain that his niece probably absolutely adored him - who wouldn’t? “I can’t wait to see you play this year. I’ll be rooting for you for sure. Do you think your odds are pretty good?” Admittedly curious and hopeful, she arched a brow, though she grinned. “We could always make it a good year either way.”

    Michael offered an amused smile in response, arching a brow as he tilted his head slightly. “I was apologizing for scaring you, I hadn’t meant to,” he told her gently, grinning, amused regardless. When she stepped closer, though, he could feel his heart swell with excitement and endearment, glad that she was willing to be this close to him at all. “Right.” He nodded, glad to see that she seemed interested in the destination he’d been to. “With all the theories about Stonehenge, my family was curious, so it was something I didn’t really want to miss.” And, again, he grinned, chewing on his lip slightly. “It was a wonderful sight, though. You should have been there, Euphemia. I think you really would have liked it.” And he would have liked the opportunity to spend time with her outside of school. “My family does a lot of trips like that, though, if you’re ever interested.” And he knew it was an idea that she might not be interested in and that, perhaps, it was overstepping boundaries, but he couldn’t help but to be hopeful that there was even a chance for it, no matter how slim that chance might be. Watching her, though, his smile softened when he noticed her demeanor change, and when she spoke of the Ministry, he wondered if, perhaps, she thought he wouldn’t be interested in it - and he wanted to assure her that he was, that he wanted to hear about it all. “The Ministry, eh? Did you get to learn any secrets?” He grinned teasingly. “Or hear anything about any new changes we might be expecting this year? Anything at all you wouldn’t mind sharing?” He winked teasingly, though he blinked when he heard somebody else’s voice call out to Euphemia and, peering over, he spotted Ashton and, arching a brow, he grinned. “Oi, mate, you’re not getting jealous over there, are you?” He knew it was likely something he shouldn’t be taunting, but he’d be damned if he let Ashton think he could scare Michael off with cruel words. No, he wouldn’t let anything force him away from Euphemia unless Euphemia wasn’t interested in speaking to him any further.

    Rowan frowned deeply with Ashton’s comment about her bloodline. It caused her fists to clench at her sides, her nails digging into her palms for a moment, hard enough that, for a moment, she worried she might draw blood. She released the hold, though, when she decided she wouldn’t give Ashton that satisfaction. She wouldn’t lose her calm because of him - she wouldn’t dare. “I’m surprised someone of your bloodline would assume that I care whether you, personally, are glad or not with what I do,” she said in response, lifting her gaze fully to his, almost hoping that the fact that her gaze locked on his would insult him in some way that she couldn’t otherwise do. “Actually, no, I’m not surprised. Of course everything has to be about you, yes?” Arching a brow, she watched him, almost challenging, but, when he spoke again, she felt her resolve crumble, because, through the years she’d been at Hogwarts, she hadn’t ever heard anybody throw that insult at her, especially not to her face. “I’d rather be kicked out of Hogwarts than spend a moment longer than necessary in your presence.” And, in that moment, as much as she didn’t want to admit it, her voice did waver, because Ashton’s insult had affected her more than she cared to let on. Swallowing, she forced down her emotions and went to the Ravenclaw table to sit down while she peered around, spotting her best friend, Calum, speaking with Astoria, and she couldn’t help but to smile, glad that Calum was getting the courage to talk to the girl that he never seemed to stop talking about.
    January 25th, 2019 at 05:09am
  • mikrokosmos.

    mikrokosmos. (100)

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    Astoria noticed how Calum seemed to stand a little taller with her compliment, and she couldn't help the pride that sprouted through her chest. She was eager to let him know that she had faith in him, she always had. They had never been considered the closest of friends, but Astoria considered herself a good judge of character, and Calum was truly something remarkable. "I'm sure you'll prove me right." Astoria kept her voice to match Calum's, quiet and calm, and she offered him a sweet smile as she noticed him studying her, still chewing on his lip. Hearing his question about the books she'd been reading over summer, however, had snapped Astoria out of her train of thought, and she shrugged her shoulders lightly when he asked for a recommendation. "I really do recommend The Great Gatsby. Maybe you'd enjoy it." And although that particular book held a lot of muggle references, she was sure Calum would catch on. "It's quite muggle, but if you have any questions, you could just ask." She offered him another smile. "Maybe we could have a reading session." Astoria suggested, unsure if he'd be interested, but wanting to suggest it either way, hopeful. Hearing him speak about the beach, Astoria found that Calum's broad grin was infectious, and she beamed in return. "How about you meet me outside here tomorrow, before breakfast? We could arrange something." But hearing a spoon tinkle politely against a goblet, Astoria knew it was time for the sorting ceremony to begin. "See you then?"

    Luke grinned with Ember's teasing, biting his lip in amusement as he shifted in his seat, never once taking his eyes from Ember. He was sat directly opposite her, and it was easy to notice the little subtle details he'd never had the chance to etch into his memory before - the flecks of colour in her eyes, the shape of her lips, how she was the most beautiful thing Luke had ever laid eyes on. Hearing her words though, Luke's grin broadened. "I certainly would of tried not to get you fired, but I do love our little chats, Ember." Luke smiled, not minding to admit that much, but aware his words were laced with a double meaning. Luke watched her for a moment, his blue eyes studying her features carefully, and he was so grateful they had both been sorted into Gryffindor all those years ago, because he never had to fear departing from her presence until he decided to go to bed that evening. "I do," Luke grinned, his eyes lighting up with the mention of his brother's daughter, clearly proud. "She's wonderful. She's just started walking, Ember, she's incredible. No stopping that one." Luke took a sip of pumpkin juice from his goblet. "And Luke was her first word." Luke sounded like his heart could burst with pride, but he didn't mind. Hearing Ember's words about Quidditch though, Luke grinned, vowing silently to play his best game as long as she was in the stands, rooting for him, because her support was all he needed. "With Albus as a seeker? Definitely." Luke grinned. "I think we might win the cup this year. Fifth year is going to be incredible." Luke grinned, raising his goblet in a cheers as the time for the sorting ceremony to begin drew to a start.

    Euphemia blushed a little with Michael's response. "Oh, I'm sorry I'm not, I mean, I -" Euphemia's blush deepened as she ducked her head slightly. Euphemia didn't want to admit that she wasn't the best when it came to social cues from people her own age, having been raised in the secluded Devon with only her Father's friends to come over for important meetings that Euphemia wasn't allowed to know about - that's how she met Ashton and Scorpius. Tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear, some sort of nervous tick she only felt compelled to do when she was around Michael, Euphemia was grateful when Michael began to speak about Stonehenge again, wishing, more than anything, she had been there to witness the wonder on Michael's face. "I'm sure it was wonderful." She looked up to him once more, her blush still apparent, but not as strong - hearing his subtle offer though, Euphemia nodded, toying with her lower lip, knowing her parents would never allow Euphemia such a luxury. "I'd love to take you up on that one day, Michael." She told him honestly, but when he asked about the Ministry, Euphemia laughed, an empty laugh, but she wanted to keep the conversation so desperately. "Nothing exciting, unfortunately. I just sit and do paperwork for my Mother while she and my Father attend meetings." She explained. When Euphemia heard Ashton call out, Euphemia shot Ashton a glare, protective of the Hufflepuff boy. "Shut up, Ashton, you bitter little slug. He's done nothing wrong to you, leave him be." But when Michael became defiant, Euphemia grinned at him with surprise, biting her lip as the sorting ceremony was about to begin. "Ignore him, he's an idiot."

    Ashton grinned when he saw how Rowan had reacted to him. She was certain, to him, that she was being subtle, but Ashton noticed her prolonged silence, and how it spoke more than she ever could. "Oh, sweetheart, my bloodline is what's going to save the wizarding world from freaks such as yourself." Ashton's voice was like silk, he always ensured that he would handle insulting others with elegance, a sort of arrogance he'd gotten from his Father. When Rowan lifted her gaze to his, Ashton locked the eye contact, smirking at her. "Such a pretty thing, ruined by status." Ashton spoke. "And why would everything not be about me, Rowan? I'm a future Minister of Magic, of course it has to be about me." And Ashton noticed, when Rowan registered what he had said, that she seemed to crumble slightly - the waver in her voice was enough. Smirking, Ashton got comfortable in his seat, laughing with Scorpius about his words to Rowan, despite the slight pit in his stomach that opened. Ashton didn't understand why he wanted to be cruel to Rowan, the girl was the most wonderful thing about this castle, but he didn't dare to admit that out loud. Hearing Michael's words, however, Ashton sneered at the Hufflepuff boy. "Jealous? Of you? I'd rather die, Clifford." Ashton spoke confidently, sitting up as he saw it was time for the sorting ceremony to begin. "Euphemia, don't betray your bloodline and come here, now."
    January 25th, 2019 at 07:47pm
  • overcome.

    overcome. (100)

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    Calum hadn’t known that it was possible to feel as happy as he did in that moment but, when Astoria confirmed that she was sure he’d prove her right, he swore every ounce of pride and happiness possible welled up in his chest, in his very being, and he knew that, with Astoria believing in him so much, he’d do everything in his power to prove that her faith was put in the right place, that it was safe with him. “Thank you. I’ll do everything I can to do so,” he promised with a small grin, his grin broadening when he registered her sweet smile, his teeth releasing the hold they had on his chip because, while he’d been nervous before, all the happiness and pride Astoria gave him with her words amazed him in every way. “The Great Gatsby, huh? I’ll have to search for it in the library when we meet. And I’ll make sure to ask you as many questions as humanly possible about it if I don’t understand anything.” But, really, he knew that most of his questions would arise because he simply wanted to hear Astoria’s voice, swearing he’d never tire of it, addicted to the way her voice sounded. “A reading session sounds really great, though. We’ll have to find somewhere peaceful to do that.” And, as sure as he was that the library would be a great place, he knew he’d be too tempted to speak often to Astoria and that would likely get them kicked out. “I’ll definitely meet you before breakfast. Don’t forget.” His grin broadening, he nodded. “See you then.” And, seeing the First Year students coming in and the ceremony about to begin, he chewed on his lip before grinning to Astoria. “But, I do mean it, don’t forget, yeah?” Mostly, though, he was saying it to assure her that he absolutely wanted to spend time with her, that he wanted to enjoy time with her, and he hoped she understood, but he grinned as he headed to the Ravenclaw table to sit down, his mind still on Astoria.

    Ember could feel her grin broadening when she saw Luke’s grin broaden, and, admittedly, having his attention on her for this long made her heart swell in a way she wasn’t familiar with. “Yeah? It seems as though there’s something we can agree on there, Luke. Our conversations can be entertaining,” she admitted with a cheerful grin, because something about her conversations with Luke were always enjoyable - even if, usually, their conversations usually had more than just the two of them involved. But, this time, it was just the two of them speaking and she intended to milk it for all it was worth. And, it was all the more amazing hearing Luke talking about his niece and she could see how much he adored the girl, amazed by the way he so quickly brightened as he talked about her. “That’s adorable. Once she starts running, you’ll never catch her,” she teased with a laugh, though her heart swelled with how much more fond Luke’s voice became when he spoke of his niece saying his name. “She must really love you. You clearly love her.” And, as he spoke about Quidditch, she nodded to his words. “I’ll be rooting for you guys, then.” She grinned, but blinked when the First Years began walking in and, looking over, she watched with curiosity. “Looks like it’s beginning,” she said quietly to Luke, but she fell silent after that.

    Michael grinned slightly as he watched Euphemia stumble over her words - and he was in no way making fun of her, he was just genuinely enjoying seeing this side of her, loving the fact that he was getting to see a part of her that he’d never gotten to witness before. “It’s quite alright, I promise,” he assured her quietly, taking her in, absolutely loving getting to know her more through it all. His grin broadened, though, when she agreed to his offer, his heart swelling slightly because he could hear the honesty behind her words. “Then, we’ll make plans for it at some point, promise. Even if I have to steal you away from the Ministry of Magic themselves.” He winked teasingly, though he was being honest with his words, because he genuinely wanted to spend more time with her; he wanted to get to know her better, he wanted to learn more about her, he wanted to be near her, and he would go to whatever lengths necessary to ensure he had that opportunity. Already, he knew that he would go to war for Euphemia at any time, because she deserved it and she was worth it. “Oi, you got to do paperwork? That means you’ve got a lot of inside information,” he teased lightly, though he looked over when he heard Ashton continue on, and, smirking, he arched a brow. “Mate, you’re the one betraying your bloodline with that haircut.” He grinned cheekily before he settled his gaze on Euphemia’s, swearing he could get lost in her eyes. “I’ll talk to you later. Looks like the ceremony’s about to begin. And I’m definitely not letting that one scare me away.” He winked teasingly at Euphemia before he moved to find his seat at the Hufflepuff table, grinning as he sat next to Astoria. “Did I miss anything fun?”

    Rowan did her best to ignore Ashton’s words, pushing his words away as much as she could, trying her best to distance herself from the insults. Chewing on her lip, she peered around the Great Hall as the First Years began to pile in, though she did her best to avoid looking even remotely in Ashton’s direction. It’d be much easier to just pretend he didn’t exist. Distracted by the incoming First Years, she hadn’t realized Calum had made his way over until she felt movement beside her and, peering at him as he sat down, she grinned slightly. “Oi, look at you,” she teased lightly, “Finally gathered the courage to talk to Astoria a bit? Did you confess your undying love for her?” She laughed when Calum nudged her with a quick “Quiet down” and she grinned, letting herself focus on this for now, rather than how upset she’d been from Ashton’s insult earlier. But, looking up, she saw that the Sorting Ceremony was about to begin and she fell silent, though she mentally debated on speaking to Calum later, just to let out her emotions about Ashton’s cruelty; if there was one person Rowan knew she could depend on, it was Calum, and she was grateful that, despite his pureblood status, he never looked at her like she was vermin, something to be scraped off the bottom of a shoe.
    January 26th, 2019 at 02:47am
  • mikrokosmos.

    mikrokosmos. (100)

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    Astoria studied Calum, taking note of all of his subtle mannerisms, appreciating each one and ensuring she had everything memorised. Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, Astoria smiled when she saw Calum let go of his lower lip, and she could admit, although only to herself, that his smile was the most beautiful sight she'd ever seen. "I'm sure you will." She spoke quietly, but when he mentioned finding a copy of The Great Gatsby in the library, Astoria smiled. "I've got it in my trunk, if you want to borrow it." She suggested casually, but she listened intently to Calum speaking, wishing that she could listen to his voice at every waking moment. "Well, a peaceful place would be the clock tower." She grinned. "If you want." And it was true, unless they were passing through to get to a class, students never lingered there. When he promised to meet her before breakfast though, Astoria laughed. As if she could ever forget. "I promise not to forget, as long as you don't." She winked, biting her lip as Calum walked away. Feeling Michael sit beside her, Astoria turned to the colourful character and grinned. "Oi, oi." She murmured quietly, watching as names of the First Years were beginning to be called out, clapping as Hufflepuff received a new member. "Not really, I just agreed to meet Calum Hood for breakfast." She grinned. "How about you? Don't think I didn't see you speaking to Euphemia Smith, of all people." Astoria took a sip of pumpkin juice.

    Luke couldn't help the way his heart soared in his chest as Ember agreed that their conversations were entertaining. It was rarely Luke ever had Ember to himself, but when he did, he made sure to cherish every moment, because she was so enchanting that Luke was sure she made his world so much brighter. "They really are, you're certainly a character." Luke grinned over her, biting at his lip with his confession, hoping she didn't take it the wrong way, because Luke meant it in the best way. Ember's personality was just so incredible, he wanted her all to himself. Hearing Ember speak about Amelia though, Luke's grin softened to a gentle smile, a fond smile. "That's what I said, but I look forward to it." He admitted. "I'm going to miss her a lot this year." He shrugged his shoulders gently. "I love her, Ember, you almost wouldn't believe how much." He laughed, ducking his head shyly. "She's already showing a bit of magic, so we think she'll be getting her acceptance letter when she turns eleven." Luke grinned. "I hope she's a Gryffindor." When Luke heard Ember speak about Quidditch though, he couldn't help but grin teasingly. "I should teach you how to play." Luke commented, keeping his voice down as the ceremony began, pouting a little when the first student was sorted to Hufflepuff.

    Euphemia smiled weakly when Michael assured her that it was alright, aware of how she'd stumbled over her words and made a fool of herself. Lifting her gaze to meet Michael's, Euphemia let out a hesitant laugh, but watching his grin broaden, Euphemia felt her smile imitate Michael's. Hearing his words about stealing her away from the Ministry though, Euphemia laughed. "Please do, I look forward to the moment you burst through the doors." She promised, loving how she could hear the honesty in his words, because she would do anything to spend more time in Michael's presence. She already knew that he would become a large source of happiness to her, if she would just be a little braver and let herself grasp the opportunity. "Michael Clifford!" Euphemia laughed. "I don't have inside information, you imp." She teased, laughing, shoving him gently, but hearing Ashton demand that Euphemia walked away from Michael, Euphemia rolled her eyes, looking to Michael in surprise as he stood up for himself, grinning as he jabbed at Ashton's haircut, looking to Michael like he had put the stars in the sky. "That was amazing." Euphemia laughed, biting her lip as their eyes met. "Enjoy the feast, Michael. I'll see you later." She spoke gently, her grin broadening when Michael said he wouldn't let Ashton scare him off. Sitting beside Ashton, Euphemia glared. "You pig. The both of you."

    Ashton glared at Michael as he spoke, Ashton's hazel eyes darkened with anger as he studied the Hufflepuff with distaste. "At least my family don't have to borrow money to pay for my school books, Clifford. Watch what you say." Ashton warned, his voice low with warning. He certainly wasn't afraid of anything a half-blood had to say to him, and Ashton was determined to make sure Michael knew he was playing a dangerous game. Ashton knew the unforgivable curses - he'd used them before, he wasn't afraid to do it again. Watching as Euphemia and Michael parted, Ashton rolled his eyes, but laughed as Euphemia sat beside him, grinning with her words. "Oh, please, Mia. I'd say this was a successful beginning to the year, wouldn't you, Scorpius? And how would you like it if Michael knew about our parents' little agreement, Mia?" And although Ashton wasn't happy with that agreement, he would ensure that he used it to keep Euphemia loyal to her status. Noticing her silence, Ashton grinned, knowing he'd won that round. "Know your place."

    Image

    As the sun began to rise on Hogwarts, nestled in the Scottish countryside, students began to rise from their slumber, anticipating what a new term could bring for them, surrounded by friends and magic.
    January 26th, 2019 at 03:20am
  • overcome.

    overcome. (100)

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    Calum had woken early that morning, his excitement for the year driving him forward - but, more than anything, it was his excitement to see Astoria that morning that had him awake and ready much earlier than usual. Even then, though, as early as he had woken up and as fast as he had gotten ready, he still had to wait on Rowan, because he’d noticed the night before that she had been mildly distracted. He hadn’t brought it up and had just let her teased him about Astoria for the night, but he knew that, once Rowan was ready to talk, she’d open up to him. Even so, as he waited, his thoughts returned to Astoria and he smiled to himself, his heart swelling with just the thought of her smile, of her voice, and he couldn’t wait to meet her outside of the Great Hall, hopeful that catching up with her would give her a better understanding of her overall. Nothing in the world could compare to Astoria in his mind; just thinking about her brought him a strong sense of comfort and he never wanted to forget or lose the feeling. He looked up, though, when he noticed a few girls coming to the Common Room and he grinned when he saw Rowan. “Ready to go?” he asked, throwing his arm around his friend once she was by his side, “I’ll have to part with you once we’re at the Great Hall. I’m meeting up with Astoria.”

    While Rowan had woken early, she hadn’t slept well throughout the night. With the excitement of the beginning of the year settling down, the nervousness began to pile on - it would be her first year as a Prefect, she’d have even more responsibilities than she usually did, and she would be avidly avoiding Ashton to the best of her ability, but she also knew that she’d be trying even harder to prove that she belonged in Hogwarts, if only to rub it in Ashton’s face at some point. When she finally pulled herself from her bed and got ready, she breathed out quietly, breathing out her anxieties, and she adjusted her Prefect badge to make sure it was securely on her robes before she headed out of the Girls’ Dormitory. As she made her way to the Common Room, she grinned slightly when she spotted Calum, relieved to see that he was already up and ready. “I am,” she confirmed as she laughed once his arm was around her and proceeded to leave the Ravenclaw Common Room to head to the Great Hall. “Ooh? Really? You’ll have to tell me all about it. It almost sounds like a date.” She winked teasingly, grinning at the blush that spread across Calum’s face.

    Michael hadn’t dwelled on anything Ashton had thrown at him the night before. Instead, his mind had focused fully on every word of the conversation he’d had with Euphemia and he could feel his heart swelling with hope the moment he woke up, an excitement bubbling within him with the knowledge that he’d get to see her again today - and he planned to make an attempt to start another conversation with her, regardless of any possible negative backlash he may receive from Ashton. He refused to let Ashton win and push his way between himself and Euphemia, especially when Euphemia seemed at least mildly interested, perhaps more, and Michael wanted to explore the possibility that there may be something genuine between them, because Michael already knew that there was an attraction to Euphemia on his side that he couldn’t possibly ignore - that he didn’t even want to ignore. After getting ready for the day, he proceeded to make his way out of the Boys’ Dormitory and to the Hufflepuff Common Room, where he patiently waited for Astoria, grinning as he called out, hopeful she could hear him, “Astoria, come on! There might be carrot cake for breakfast, imagine that!”

    When morning came, Ember was slow to rise from her bed, but when she did begin to stir, she discovered that the excitement for the school year hadn’t dissipated at all. With a grin, she got ready for the day, feeling her curiosity get the better of her, and, as she made her way out of the Girls’ Dormitory and to the Gryffindor Common Room, her curiosity began shifting more towards Luke than to what the year had in store for her. Her conversation with Luke the night before had genuinely sparked her interest in him far more than usual, his love for his niece making her heart swell and soar, and she just wanted to experience more moments where his lights shined the way they did when he talked about things he loved. Once in the common room, she thought about hanging around to wait to see if Luke was coming or not, but she knew she’d woken a little later than many others, so there was no guarantee that Luke hadn’t already gone to the Great Hall, so, chewing on her lip, she exited the Gryffindor tower to head to the Great Hall for breakfast.
    January 26th, 2019 at 03:58am
  • mikrokosmos.

    mikrokosmos. (100)

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    Astoria had woken early, and although she wasn't looking forward to climbing out of bed to the chill that the Scottish highlands offered, she remembered her promise to meet Calum outside of the Great Hall and she felt a rush of newfound excitement rush through her. She had dwelled on the conversation she'd had with Calum all evening, certain that she had made Michael bored with how much she'd talking about the Ravenclaw prefect. Changing to her white shirt and skirt, Astoria pulled up her socks and put on her robe, biting her lip as she made sure to tie her hair up, wanting to leave an impression on Calum. She couldn't deny her attraction to him, and she was hopeful he returned the sentiment. Hearing Michael call down from the bottom of the girls' dormitory staircase, Astoria grinned and made her way down. "Do you ever shut up?" She teased, wrapping an arm around Michael's middle. "Good morning! Don't promise carrot cake if there isn't any, you'll break my heart." She teased, reaching to ruffle his hair. "I'm meeting Calum this morning." She grinned with excitement.

    Luke had woken to the sunrise, and he decided, there was nothing better to wake up to. And then, suddenly, Ember crossed his mind, and he decided that waking up beside her would be the best way to wake up. Looking forward to the beginning of term, Luke tied his red and gold tie carefully against his white shirt, not bothering to haul around his black robe, deciding it wasn't cold enough to use it yet, anyway. Luke debated, for a long moment, as he descended the stairs of the boys' dormitory, if calling up to Ember was worth it. Seeing the common room empty, he called out a quick "hello" up the staircase to be met with silence. Luke wondered if she'd already began to make her way to the Great Hall. Exiting the common room through the portrait of the Fat Lady, Luke maneuvered the stair cases expertly, eager for breakfast. Seeing Ember though, Luke grinned, quickening his pace to the point of jogging, almost. As he approached Ember, Luke threw an arm around her shoulders with a laugh, biting his lip, happy to have her in his embrace in that way. "G'morning." Luke offered her a smile. "Wait for me next time." He teased. "You hungry?"

    Euphemia neatened out her hair as it rested in loose curls against her shoulders, and Euphemia surprised herself by wearing her long, white locks down instead of tied in their usual conservative bun. She wondered if the effect Michael Clifford had on her had anything to do with her unusual choice. Slipping on her robe, Euphemia made her way down the stairs of the girls' dormitory, looking around the common room to regroup with Ashton and Scorpius. Seeing them sat in the armchairs, Euphemia sat on the arm of Ashton's chair and looked to the two arrogant boys. "Are we ready to go, then?" She asked, the thought of seeing Michael again already making her eager to leave the dreary grey of the dungeon and into the light that Michael provided.

    Ashton scoffed with Euphemia's words, but nodded. "I suppose so." He gave her a cold glance. "So, what has you so interested in Michael Clifford, of all people?" Ashton stood from the armchair, conveniently placed by the lit fire place, neatening out his robes to perfection, his silver and green tie contrasting against his white shirt. "Guess what I heard?" He grinned to Scorpius and Euphemia, leading the way to the Great Hall. "Father got the Ministry to start a new census of muggleborns. Brilliant, isn't it?" And although Ashton was unsure of what that meant, the ingrained hatred of muggleborns he'd had to endure since birth made him giddy with the thought, truly unaware of all the hatred that his Father was promoting. "Perhaps Rowan will get on there, she deserves to be after her little hijinks yesterday." Ashton scowled with the thought, reaching the Great Hall as Calum and Rowan did, smirking at her. "Ah, speaking of dirt." He shoved past Rowan harshly, looking back at the pair. "I hope you know a Prefect badge don't mean much in terms of justifying yourself."
    January 26th, 2019 at 04:20am
  • overcome.

    overcome. (100)

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    Michael could feel his excitement to see Euphemia growing once Astoria was downstairs and by his side, because it meant he was that much closer to seeing Euphemia again. “Of course I don’t! Don’t you know me well enough by now to know better than to even bothering asking such a question?” he teased, throwing his arm around Astoria’s shoulders gently to tug her to his side, his grin broadening as he led the way out, making a face when she ruffled his hair. “Good morning to you, too. Technically, I didn’t promise the carrot cake.” He winked teasingly as they walked, amused and happy, settling his gaze ahead, his heart swelling more and more with each step. “And, there you go! Your heart doesn’t have to be broken over the possibility of no carrot cake, because you get to see your sweetheart, Calum.” Looking down at Astoria, he gave her a squeeze before lifting his gaze when they neared the Great Hall, grinning when he saw Euphemia. “Euphemia, hey!”

    Ember had been taking her time to walk to the Great Hall, in no great rush to get there, mostly just excited to be near Luke again, but unsure if she would even get the opportunity because the tables occasionally filled up fast when it came to meals. As she’d been running through those thoughts, though, she heard somebody rushing up, but she’d dismissed it until she felt an arm around her shoulders and heard a laugh - a familiar one that sent a rush of happiness flooding through her. Lifting her gaze to Luke, she watched him, though she grinned slightly, her heart racing a bit at seeing him bite his lip, and, for a moment, she leaned into his embrace, enjoying it, letting herself be casual about it. “Morning,” she greeted cheerfully, tilting her head to the side. “Sorry, I woke a little later, so I assumed you’d already gone to breakfast - otherwise, I would have waited. But, yes, I’m starving.” She laughed. “Are you?”

    Calum, despite the blush still on his features, grinned down at his friend, rolling his eyes. “Oi, don’t start that now,” he chimed jokingly, “You’ll scare her off if she overhears you!” But, a part of him hoped that wouldn’t be the case - that Astoria wouldn’t be scared off from him, because she was amazing, perfect in every sense, and he knew that losing a chance with her would mean losing the best chance at love and happiness he had, because he just knew that Astoria was meant to be in his life somehow. As they approached the Great Hall, though, he was about to part from Rowan, but he felt her jolt under his hold, saw her stumble and, when he realized what had happened, he looked towards Ashton with a deep frown, his eyes narrowing when he heard his words. “Being a pureblood doesn’t mean much if you’re just rotten to the core, Irwin.” Turning to Rowan, he frowned, watching her. “Are you alright, Rowan?” He looked up, though, when he heard Michael's voice, because he knew, usually, Astoria was with Michael, and Calum's heart eased when he spotted her.

    Rowan couldn’t help but to laugh when she heard Calum’s rebuttal and she rolled her eyes playfully. “I don’t think anything could scare her off from you, Cal,” she chimed with a broad grin, lifting her gaze to her friend with pride, happy for him, “She was completely entranced by you last night. I only saw the end of it, but, trust me, you’ll be fine, even with me giving you hell about it.” Spotting the Great Hall up ahead, she perked up, grinning with the thought of eating, certain it would boost her mood and energy even more, but she stumbled when she felt somebody collide with her, almost falling but she regained her balance in time to glare at Ashton. “Toad,” she hissed out quietly, scoffing lowly, though she straightened, her eyes narrowing as she watched him, and she nodded to Calum’s question. “I’m alright. He shoves like a seven year old girl. I suppose being a pureblood doesn’t make one physically superior.”
    January 26th, 2019 at 04:54am
  • mikrokosmos.

    mikrokosmos. (100)

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    Astoria laughed when Michael tugged her to his side, shaking her head in amusement. "You haven't shut up since the day I met you, it's amazing how one can have so much to say." Astoria teased, squeezing around him once she'd successfully messed up his hair. Following Michael's lead to the Great Hall, Astoria couldn't help the nerves that began to bubble in the pit of her stomach. Spending a whole morning with Calum was all Astoria had wanted to do, for the longest time, but as the opportunity drew nearer, Astoria wondered if Calum would get bored of her, or if she just wasn't interesting enough to hold his attention. "Carrot cake is amazing." Astoria hummed. "If I could eat it for every meal, I would." She grinned, but a blush crept onto her cheeks with Michael's mention of Calum, and she shoved him. "I hate you." But seeing Ashton Irwin shove into Rowan, Astoria pulled away from Michael and frowned, approaching the situation, placing a hand on Rowan's shoulder, having known Rowan for a while. "What's going on?" She looked to the Slytherins, resisting the urge to roll her eyes, but she heard Calum's words and nodded. "Nobody is purely wizard anymore anyway." She glared at Ashton. "It's all half-bloods or muggleborns. Little Irwin and his cronies here are just holding onto an old fashioned dream."

    Luke felt a burst of warmth rush through him as Ember leaned into his hold, and he grinned, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. "Well then, we should make it our little tradition to meet up for breakfast, what do you say?" Luke offered with a grin, because all he wanted was to spend time with Ember. In the short amount of time he'd made more of an effort to speak to her, just them, Luke already knew that he was falling for her, and he didn't want to stop himself, because the opportunity for happiness was too great to let slip through his fingertips. "I'm really hungry, but not quite on the level of starving." Luke grinned, squeezing around Ember once more, being gentle. "I could really go for some porridge, pancakes, and whatever else I can get my hands on." Luke winked. Seeing the confrontation outside the Great Hall, Luke's eyebrows furrowed together when he spotted Michael and Calum. "What's happening there?" He asked, his pace quickening as he let go of Ember to ensure nothing dramatic was going on - it was only the first day of term, for God's sake, the last thing anyone needed was detention. "Oi, oi." Luke greeted, grinning at his friends, the grin soon disappearing when he saw Ashton. "Oh, gross. A worm."

    Hearing Michael Clifford call out her name, Euphemia lifted her gaze and offered him a smile, but once the confrontation gained more attention, Euphemia foloded her arms across her chest, defensive of herself, ducking her head slightly as Astoria spoke. Euphemia could admit to herself that she wanted nothing more than to break away from that old fashioned dream, but how would anyone believe her when she was associated with the likes of Ashton Irwin and Scorpius Malfoy? Feeling hurt stab at her chest, Euphemia shifted on her feet. "Ashton, leave it." She warned quietly, knowing that it could quickly escalate into something more than cruel words and a harsh shove if Ashton allowed it to - and he often did, because pride was nothing more than a winning game to him. Euphemia listened to Calum Hood's words, and she really could resonate with them, because that's exactly what she was trying to break away from. "Please, Ashton." Euphemia made herself a little louder now, already feeling the tension building. "Just come and get some breakfast, there really isn't any need to fight on the first day back, for goodness sake."

    Ashton nudged Euphemia away from him as he studied the situation. "Hood, you'd have the makings of greatness if you didn't associate yourself with such vermin." Ashton replied easily, smirking at Rowan. "For the strength of a seven year old girl, watching you stumble will be the highlight of my day, Rowan, I'm certain of it." He retorted with clever wit and a sharp tongue. When Luke Hemmings and Astoria Spedding stepped in, Ashton couldn't help but laugh. "Well, you know what they say for your kind. Birds of a feather flock together." Ashton shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly. "It's the same for our kind - you know, the better kind. The clean kind." Ashton neatened out his white shirt, sleeves rolled up to the elbows, completely relaxed and unbothered as his hands stayed in the pockets of his black trousers. Studying Rowan though, Ashton exhaled quietly, not letting his demeanour drop for a moment, vulnerability had no place at a time like this. When Euphemia begged though, Ashton relented, knowing that his Father was expecting good grades all throughout fifth year. "I'll see you around, Mudblood." Ashton smirked at Rowan, shoving past Calum to enter the Great Hall with Scorpius at his side.
    January 26th, 2019 at 06:42pm
  • overcome.

    overcome. (100)

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    Calum frowned deeply as he heard Ashton’s words and he scoffed, rolling his eyes. “I don’t want to be anything like you or your idea of greatness, Irwin,” he said firmly, his eyes narrowed and, when he saw that Astoria had come over, he moved to stand in front of the girls, wanting to protect Astoria from any cruelty Ashton may throw at her. “Bite your tongue before you push things too far.” And, really, he was glad Astoria was there, his heart swelling with the fact that she was helping to defend Rowan, because he knew she didn’t have to - she could have kept walking to avoid any confrontation with Ashton, to avoid Ashton being able to throw cruel words at her. “Oi, keep that word out of your mouth,” Calum warned Ashton, glaring at him. When Ashton shoved past him, he frowned deeply before he looked back towards Astoria and Rowan, though he offered a weak smile to Astoria. “Hell of a way to start the morning, eh?” He tried to keep his tone light, wanting to break the tension that Ashton had caused all of them, though he nodded in acknowledgment to the others.

    Ember could feel her heart race, a slight warmth spreading over her features when she felt Luke kiss the top of her head, though she grinned up at him. “That sounds like a tradition worth engaging in,” she decided quietly, nodding, though she laughed. “But, at least the food is good!” But, as they drew closer to the Great Hall and saw what was going on, she blinked, arching a brow as she examined the scene, a small frown on her features as she followed Luke’s path to the group. Spotting Ashton, she rolled her eyes as she listened to him. “What a yippy little lap dog,” she said as she joined, watching him and the other Slytherins leave. “Honestly, he acts so much like them, even in the sense that he never shuts up.”

    Michael grinned, making a joking face at his friend, tilting his head slightly. “Well, somebody’s gotta keep you entertained,” he teased lightly, winking, though he couldn’t help but to laugh when he heard how she spoke about carrot cake. “You’re such an addict! Bet you’re addicted to Calum, too.” He winked again, even more teasingly, if it was even possible, and he grinned when she made the comment about hating him. “You love me,” he corrected teasingly, nudging her gently, though his gaze settled on the group for a moment, his brows furrowing as he registered what was happening, though his gaze mostly settled on Euphemia. He could see how uncomfortable she was, how she seemed to want to be anywhere other than there in that moment, and his heart ached for the girl, because he knew it had to be hard, being friends with jerks like Ashton and Scorpius, always being dragged into their drama, and always being associated with their names, regardless of how different she was compared to them. “Perhaps grow a heart, yeah?” he mentioned, looking to Ashton, “Your cruel tongue causes problems for your friends, too, mate. At the very least, you could care about that.”

    Rowan offered a weak smile to Astoria when she felt her hand on her shoulder, though she tried to strengthen it, tried not to show any weakness to Ashton, because the last thing she wanted was to give him a reason to believe that he could make things worse. Straightening a bit, she watched quietly, grateful for Astoria’s words, wishing that more purebloods understood what Calum did and what Astoria was trying to get across. “I don’t see anything better about you, Ashton,” she said calmly, watching him, “Your superiority complex is really going to bite you in the ass one day.” And, when Ashton shot the word at her again, she swallowed hard, trying to ignore the way her eyes burned and itched - the night before, she’d been the only one to hear the slur, aside from Ashton’s friend, Scorpius, but, this time, there were other witnesses to Ashton’s cruelty and she hated it, because it’d been easier to be brave and strong when it had been just her. “No, he’s more of a toad,” she muttered quietly in response to Ember’s words before she turned to head into the Great Hall, trying to regain her strength.
    January 26th, 2019 at 09:58pm
  • mikrokosmos.

    mikrokosmos. (100)

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    Astoria blinked in surprise when Calum stood in front of her and Rowan, Astoria stood protectively at Rowan's side, prepared to remove her from the situation if anything escalated. When Ashton threw Mudblood around like it meant nothing, Astoria squeezed Rowan's shoulder, trying to comfort the girl, surprised at Ashton's cruelty. When Ashton and the other Slytherins walked away from the confronation, Astoria bit her lip. "What a prat." She murmured, shaking her head. Watching as Rowan pulled away from the group, Astoria watched with worry, tucking her hair behind her ear. "What on Earth gives him the right to even think of using a word so vile?" Astoria asked quietly, looking to Calum, placing a gentle hand on his arm. "That was amazing, Cal, honestly." She told him with a soft smile, adoring how protective Calum was over his friends, finding that the trait was something to admire greatly. "The world needs more wizards like you."

    Luke stood beside Calum, folding his arms across his chest to protect the girls from anything cruel that Ashton wished to throw at them. "Step down, Irwin, you're making a fool of yourself." Luke spoke, studying Ashton with a look of disgust. Luke had disliked Ashton from the moment he laid eyes on him, but hearing his sense of superiority, Luke decided that dislike had turned to hatred. Watching the way Ashton treated Rowan, Luke felt the blood running through his veins boil with anger, and he frowned to himself, not wanting the confrontation to turn nasty, in case anyone ended up in deeper trouble. Ashton had always had a wit about him that could ensure he got out of trouble, and Luke knew it would be them in trouble rather than the arrogant little blonde twit. When Ashton used Mudblood, though, throwing out the slur like it was a hello, Luke tensed and took a step forward. "Say it again, Irwin, I dare you." But when the Slytherins had turned around to walk into the Great Hall, Luke shook his head, wrapping an arm around Ember's shoulders once more. "Well, good morning, crew." He spoke to his friends. "Breakfast?"

    Euphemia dragged Ashton along, looking over her shoulder to Michael, offering an apologetic smile. When she'd led the two boys into the Great Hall, Euphemia shoved Ashton ahead, smacking the back of his head with disapproval. "Why must you do this, Ashton?" She sighed, anxiously smoothing out her skirt. Not even waiting for a reply, Euphemia looked to the entrance of the Great Hall once more. "You go ahead. I'll catch up. I promised Michael I'd say hello." And while that wasn't the whole truth, Euphemia wasn't in the mood to hear Ashton go on and on about bloodlines again today. Heading back to the entrance, Euphemia paused as she saw Rowan. "Rowan," she approached carefully, suddenly ashamed of the green and silver tie around her neck, despite everything her Father had told her. "I'm so sorry about him, he's an arrogant little pig. He just..." Euphemia paused, unable to defend Ashton anymore, but shrugging her shoulders lightly, sighing. "I'm sorry." Passing the girl, Euphemia squeezed the Ravenclaw's shoulder gently, before heading to Michael.

    Ashton laughed as Euphemia slapped the back of his head, rubbing the back of his head as he went with Scorpius to sit down, although he couldn't deny that his heart was beating violently in his ribcage. Confrontation was something Ashton considered himself to be an expert at, and yet, he envied Rowan and the friendships she'd built with her fellow students. All Ashton had, despite his fondness of them both, was Scorpius and Euphemia, and as Ashton sat down for breakfast, he couldn't help but wish he had friends like that, maybe without Scorpius. "Well, that was entertaining." He murmured to himself to rid himself of those thoughts, studying his timetable for the day and wondering if he'd see Rowan or any of her friends in his classes, wondering if he could show a better image of himself without Scorpius by his side to raise Hell.
    January 26th, 2019 at 10:34pm
  • overcome.

    overcome. (100)

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    Calum waited until Ashton was fully out of sight before his gaze settled on Astoria and Rowan and his heart swelled so much when he saw Astoria squeeze Rowan’s shoulder and, more than anything, it made him realize just how much he wanted Astoria in his life. She was the sweetest girl he’d ever met, caring about those around her in a way that he hadn’t really ever seen before he’d met her. He watched Rowan leave, deciding to speak to her later about everything, but he settled his gaze back on Astoria. “Nothing does. Nobody should use that word, ever. He just thinks he’s superior to everybody around him,” he muttered quietly, though he chewed on his lip to bite back the smile that threatened to spread across his features when he heard Astoria’s praise, his heart racing with feeling her hand on his arm. “It was nothing, really,” he murmured quietly, “He didn’t really back down much. He knows how to press everybody’s buttons.” Shaking his head, he lifted his hand to rest it over hers, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. “Are you alright? I mean, I know he didn’t aim that cruel word to you straight on, but…” But he knew words could still affect people deeply and he didn’t think he’d be able to hold himself back if Ashton spoke cruelly to Astoria or if he hurt her feelings in any way. He blinked, though, when he heard Michael say his name, and he chuckled, settling his gaze on Astoria. “I’ll make sure to scavenge you some carrot cake, in that case.”

    Ember watched the others quietly, amazed with the sense of unity that surrounded everybody, and it made a broad grin form on her features, though she chewed on her lip when Luke was back by her side. Being in his hold again, she, once again, couldn’t help but to lean against him slightly, just feeling so natural there, and being close to him helped to ease the annoyance she felt with Ashton’s behavior. “Look at you, Mr. Bravery,” she murmured teasingly, though proudly, because knowing that he’d been so quick to step up to Ashton to protect their friends honestly amazed her in every sense of the word. Still, she chewed on her lip, watching for any sign that the slur might have affected Luke, but she didn’t want to ask in case he didn’t want to talk about it. “Yeah, breakfast sounds good. Remember, no stealing.” And she grinned again, hoping to help to ease the tension like the others had.

    Michael offered a partially amused look to Luke, rolling his eyes jokingly. “Good morning to you, too,” he said easily, though he watched the others, waiting for the tension from earlier to ebb away. “Yes, breakfast. Astoria’s dying for a carrot cake, Calum,” he called over to Calum with a grin, though his attention was soon taken away when he saw that Euphemia was coming back to the group. Immediately, he grinned broadly and, once she was close enough, he slid an arm around her shoulders and drew her in close to his side. “Are you alright?” He arched a brow down at her, watching her with concern, because he hoped that Ashton wasn’t giving her hell again. Moreover, he hoped that she would be comfortable around his friends - he was sure they knew by now that she wasn’t like her friends, but he looked to the others anyways, grinning. “Oi, everybody, meet Euphemia, officially. Trust me, she’s a charmer.” He winked teasingly down at her. “And nothing at all like her friends, you’ll all like her.”

    Rowan paused in her steps when she heard her name and, lifting her gaze, she blinked when she saw Euphemia there. For a moment, she wasn’t sure what to expect - she’d never heard a cruel word pass from Euphemia’s lips, but she couldn’t help but to worry. When Euphemia started apologizing, though, she watched with surprise. “You’re not the one who has to apologize, Euphemia,” she assured after a moment, “You didn’t do anything wrong.” And she offered a smile to reaffirm her words, blinking when Euphemia squeezed her shoulder. She watched Euphemia leave, saw her join the others, and she could feel her heart swell with hope for the girl - maybe if she spent more time around the others, she’d be able to make more friends than those two jerks. Shifting, she moved to go sit down, sitting next to a few First Years to make sure they were feeling alright about their first official school day at Hogwarts.
    January 26th, 2019 at 11:22pm
  • mikrokosmos.

    mikrokosmos. (100)

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    Astoria nodded with Calum's words, stepping forward to be closer to him. "It's an evil word, Calum." She murmured back, looking up to the boy with a weak smile, squeezing Calum's arm gently, shaking her head in amusement when he tried to dismiss her compliment. "It was something, Calum. A lot of people wouldn't stick up for their friends like that." Astoria pointed out calmly. "Especially when it's two people of the same blood status. It's just a shame that prejudices like that still exist." She frowned with the thought, shaking her head. But when Calum placed his hand over hers, Astoria swore she felt her heart miss a beat, miss a step in it's rhythm, and she grinned up at him. "I'm okay, it's not the first time I've heard that word." She promised. "I'm concerned about Rowan, though." She admitted. "But thank you." But when Michael mentioned carrot cake, Astoria shot him a playful glare. "Michael Gordon Clifford, shut up!" She teased, but laughed with Calum's words. "Calum, are you enabling my addiction? You naughty boy." She teased.

    Luke squeezed around Ember protectively, unable to help himself. He understood the hurt that that evil word could caused, and although he knew that Ember wasn't a muggleborn, he was still concerned for her, because Ashton Irwin had the talent to ruin everyone's day. Kissing the top of Ember's head as Luke squeezed around her once more, Luke took comfort in having her in his arms, easing off the anger that bubbled in his chest. "Bravery?" Luke laughed suddenly, looking down at Ember with a smile. "Sweetheart, that's not bravery. That's being a better person than that shrivelled slug." Luke winked teasingly, not wanting to admit that mudblood did leave a bitter taste in his mouth. "I promise not to steal." Luke rolled his eyes with a grin. "Alright, are we all ready for food? I need something before I starve." He pouted. "And besides, I have Quidditch tomorrow afternoon so I need to start eating." Luke teased, looking to Ember with a grin, amazed at the effect she had on him. She seemed to calm him down, because his rapid heartbeat had now softened to a soft thump, and he knew he had her to thank for that.

    Euphemia smiled at Rowan, but when Michael slid an arm around her shoulders, Euphemia smiled and relaxed into his embrace, smiling up at him. "I'm alright." She nodded, confirming quietly to reassure Michael, but she cleared her throat, clearly anxious and out of her comfort zone, but wanting to try for Michael's sake. From the day of her birth, all she'd ever known was Ashton and Scorpius, and making friends was something she didn't find easy - it had come naturally with the other two. "How about you lot, are you okay?" She asked, clearly ashamed by Ashton's words and actions, although her gaze was mostly on Michael. When Michael introduced her, Euphemia offered a smile to the others. "It's lovely to meet you all." She nodded, her smile genuine, if a little nervous, but when Michael called her a charmer, Euphemia laughed, gently shoving the Hufflepuff boy. "Cute," she teased, looking at him, once more, like he lit up the sun, laughing when he winked and ducking her head.

    Ashton poured himself some orange juice as he lifted his gaze from his breakfast. He'd tuned out Scorpius' blabbering a few moments ago, and he had no intention of tuning himself back in. Seeing Rowan walk into the Great Hall, however, Ashton watched every step she took, how gorgeous she was within the sunshine seeping in through the windows. Ashton bit his lip, watching as she sat down next to a group of First Years. Ashton frowned, confused by his own adoration, ducking his head slightly. He wished, to God, to anyone, that he could tell Rowan the sort of life he led, tell her everything, maybe she'd understand why he had to remain so callous towards her. Shaking his head to rid himself of the thought, Ashton sipped the orange juice, ignoring gravity that tried desperately to pull him to Rowan.
    January 26th, 2019 at 11:50pm
  • overcome.

    overcome. (100)

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    Calum nodded slightly when he heard Astoria’s words. “I know,” he murmured quietly, “Unfortunately, not everybody cares about the effect a word can have on somebody.” Still, he grinned slightly, ducking his head, and shrugged. “I’ll always stand up for the people who matter to me,” he said, lifting his gaze to watch her. “Including you, by the way. Especially you.” A part of him hoped that she would know, by his words, how much she meant to him, but he didn’t want to push her too much, so his grin softened to a smile. “I’m glad you’re okay, really.” Watching her, he was relieved that she didn’t seem too upset about the situation and he hoped that she wouldn’t be the immediate target of any of Ashton’s cruelty in the future, because she didn’t deserve that. Nobody did. “I’ll talk to Rowan later, promise.” He figured it’d be better to talk to her alone, so she didn’t feel like the center of attention, or in case her emotions got the better of her if Ashton’s words really did cut as deeply as Calum was sure Ashton intended for them to. He grinned, though, watching her. “I’ll definitely enable that addiction, if it earns me any brownie points,” he teased, winking, though he smiled at Euphemia and nodded. “It’s great to officially meet you, Euphemia. If you’ve got Michael’s favor, I’m sure you must be great.”

    Ember blinked when she felt Luke squeeze around her and she lifted her gaze to him, watching him, though her heart swelled and raced when Luke kissed the top of her head. She wasn’t used to the effect Luke had on her, but she swore it was the most amazing feeling in the world, the most comforting, and with how close she was to him, she could take in his scent, allowing herself to enjoy it. “Still bravery. Ashton doesn’t seem like the type to hold back, and you stepped up without hesitating,” she murmured quietly, nudging him, though she grinned slightly. “I’ll take your word for it. But if you ask, I might share. Let’s go eat.” She grinned, though, and nodded. “You’ll do great.” But, peering over to Euphemia, her grin softened to a smile and she waved. “Welcome to the group. Let us know if we get too overwhelming, we’ll try to tone it down.” Although she wasn’t entirely sure whether it would be possible or not.

    Michael grinned slightly when he saw Euphemia’s smile, unable to help himself. “I’m glad,” he murmured quietly, squeezing her gently to his side when he noticed her nervousness. “And I’m glad you’re here. Truly.” He wanted her to feel welcomed and to feel like she belonged with them, like she could be comfortable spending time with them - but, if she ended up being too uncomfortable, he didn’t want to force her to stick around his friends, he wouldn’t dare do that to her, force her to be somewhere that put her on edge. “We’re alright. It could have gotten much worse with that one, I’m sure.” Something about Ashton made him wonder if, perhaps, pushing the boy too much would make him lash out with more than just cruel words. A frown formed on Michael’s features with the thought and, then and there, he promised to protect Euphemia if anything came up. When he heard Astoria, he laughed, shooting her a casual thumbs-up to encourage her. He grinned, though, when Euphemia shoved him and he chuckled, dropping his gaze back to Euphemia, focusing on her. “I try. Glad you seem to be enjoying it.” And he loved her laugh, he truly did, finding it the most amazing sound, though he chewed on his lip when she ducked her head. “Something wrong?”
    January 27th, 2019 at 12:19am
  • mikrokosmos.

    mikrokosmos. (100)

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    Astoria nodded with Calum's words, listening to him carefully. "It really is unfortunate." She murmured back, her gaze finding his in an instant, because even in a crowded room, Astoria would seek out Calum. "You should of been in Hufflepuff." She teased, squeezing his arm gently, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "But I'd do the same for you, always." She promised. "Because you matter to me, Calum." Astoria smiled softly at the boy, quickly changing the subject before Calum began to look into her words. Wrapping an arm around his middle, Astoria nodded with Calum's promise of speaking to Rowan later. "You better." She warned quietly, turning serious for a moment. But when Michael introduced Euphemia, Astoria smiled. "Hi, there, Euphemia." She smiled, warm and welcoming, wanting the Slytherin to feel accepted. "It's nice to meet you. You must be wonderful for Michael to be so besotted with you." Astoria grinned, but looked to Calum once more. "Can we go and get my carrot cake now?" She teased. "It'll earn you five brownie points, at least."

    Luke couldn't help but relish in the feeling of Ember being this close to him. Luke felt like the luckiest man alive, because she let him hold her like this, and Luke knew, in that moment, he wanted their friendship to become something more. Nuzzling into her hair slightly, Luke took in the scent of her shampoo, his eyes closing over as he relaxed. "I'd do anything for my friends, Ember." He murmured into her hair. "Just like I'd do anything for you." He promised, and he swore, he'd never meant something so much in his life. He'd put his life on the line for her - Hell, he'd even go to war for Ember, because he knew that she was worth it, in every sense of the term. "I'll make sure to say please." Luke teased, laughing as Ember nudged him, dropping his arm to take her hand within his own, hoping that he wasn't overstepping any boundaries that Ember may have had in place. "I'm starving, love."

    Euphemia smiled up at Michael, clearly besotted by the boy. She understood that they were worlds apart, but something about him just made Euphemia want to be a better person, and she truly wanted to use Michael's influence to strive towards that. Wrapping an arm around his middle when Michael squeezed her gently, Euphemia tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. "Yes, well, Ashton's an idiot." She murmured, and although she adored Ashton, having seen the friendlier version of the boy who so desperately wanted to be accepted, she knew that he'd done wrong by the group of friends. "Come on, let's go and get some food." She smiled at Michael. Hearing his question though, Euphemia blinked. "Nothing wrong. I'm just... happy." She laughed.
    January 27th, 2019 at 12:39am
  • overcome.

    overcome. (100)

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    Calum grinned down at Astoria, arching a brow. “Yeah? You think so?” he asked with curiosity, “I think the best thing about being in Hufflepuff would have been being in that House with you.” After all, he knew that just being in Astoria’s presence would have been the best experience, but he was grateful he got to be around her now, anyways. “You matter to me, too.” And, he meant it, he truly did, with everything in him, because he couldn’t imagine what his Hogwarts experience would have been like without her. “I will,” he promised, nodding with her warning, though he grinned, his arm sliding around her waist gently, carefully. “Five brownie points? I’ll gladly take them and give you all the carrot cake.” He winked teasingly before heading inside with her.

    Ember lifted her gaze to Luke when she heard his words, her heart swelling, and she wondered if it was even humanly possible to feel as happy as she did in that moment. “Well, I’m right there with you,” she promised quietly, “Especially when it comes to you.” She smiled slightly as she examined him, chewing on her lip, though she laughed and nodded. “Right, a please will get you farther than you can imagine.” She winked teasingly, though she felt her heart race, pounding in her chest when he took her hand and, watching him, she squeezed his hand to assure it was okay before heading inside.

    “Oi!” Michael complained in response to Astoria, making a face at her for her comment, though he laughed all the same. His attention was easily recaptured by Euphemia, though, when he felt her arm around him, a grin spreading across his features with her squeeze and he squeezed her to his side in return. “Well, I definitely agree that Ashton’s an idiot,” he decided quietly, though his expression brightened when he heard her admit that she was happy. “I’m glad. Seeing you happy is the best sight in the world.” And, grinning, he kissed the top of her head before he led the way into the Great Hall so they could eat.

    Image

    Breakfast had passed without any issue and Calum had spent lunch talking to Rowan. He could tell she’d still been upset about that morning’s experience, and he let her talk as much as she needed to, providing her comfort because she was his best friend and the thought of anybody he cared about hurting angered him. After lunch, though, he’d parted from her to go to his Potions class, though his eyes searched for Astoria and, when he spotted her, he grinned as he jogged a bit to catch up to her. “Astoria, hey,” he greeted, “Off to class?” He arched a brow, chewing on his lip with hope. “Any chance we share class together?”

    Rowan had been grateful for her conversation with Calum at lunch, allowing her to calm down after everything, though she’d tried not to dwell on it all too much that day in the first place. Ashton had a way of getting under her skin, though, and she hated that about him. Standing from the Ravenclaw table, she headed out of the Great Hall to head to her Potions class, her focus settling on the opportunity to actually attend a class she enjoyed. She hoped beyond hope that she wouldn’t have the class with Ashton, though, because she’d had the class with him for two years in a row - she didn’t think she could handle another year.

    Michael had spent the lunch hour talking to Astoria, teasing her about Calum, but his gaze hadn’t left Euphemia most of the time, and he grinned to himself, not even wanting to avert his gaze in the first place. She was ethereal in every way and how a being such as her existed in the first place was beyond his understanding, but he was so, so grateful that she existed, that she was a part of his life, and he only wanted to ensure that he didn’t lose her in his life, ever. When they were dismissed from the Great Hall, he climbed to his feet to quickly go towards the Slytherin table, grinning. “Euphemia,” he greeted, “Who’s your teacher this hour?”

    Ember’s lunch hour had been spent much like her breakfast, near Luke, and she couldn’t possibly imagine a better way to spend her meals or any free time she had. When they were eventually dismissed, she stood, gathering her things, and she offered a small grin to Luke. “I guess it’s off to class for us,” she mentioned, though she tilted her head slightly, “Although, I can admit I’m hopeful we share class together, honestly.” Because the thought of sharing a class with Luke, admittedly, put her at ease, and made her feel more confident about her chances of passing her classes in general.
    January 27th, 2019 at 02:07am