Amidst the Quidditch field, where the vibrant green of the grass met the endless expanse of the sky, Alexia found herself once again overseeing a rather amusing detention involving first years and a particularly elusive Golden Snitch. Young wizards and witches were stumbling over themselves, brooms jerking in every direction, and occasional shouts of surprise or frustration filled the air. Alexia found herself in a whirlwind of chaos, surrounded by the laughter and excitement of the inexperienced students.
As she intervened to prevent a young wizard from choking himself with the Snitch, she felt a familiar presence approaching. Turning around, she found Daphne, wearing a teasing smirk that hinted at mischief. Before Alexia could utter a word, she was enveloped in a surprising hug from the Slytherin.
"Well, that plan of ours worked," Daphne declared, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Pansy and I are officially dating now."
Alexia blinked, momentarily taken aback by the unexpected turn of events. The plan they had concocted seemed to have yielded results beyond what she had anticipated. While still trying to process the information, she couldn't help but chuckle at the Slytherin's audacity.
"Well, well, the infamous plan actually worked," Alexia quipped, a grin spreading across her face. "I suppose I should congratulate you." Alexia's mischievous smirk deepened as she reminded Daphne of the deal they had struck in the library. She raised an eyebrow, awaiting Daphne's response. "Ah, the deal," Alexia teased. "If the matchmaking plan worked, you promised to join Hermione's S.P.E.W., right?"
Daphne sighed dramatically, though the amusement in her eyes betrayed any true reluctance. "Fine, fine. I'll honour the deal. But only because it worked like a charm. Pansy is surprisingly charming when she's not trying to hex someone."
Alexia chuckled, pleased with the successful outcome of their impromptu matchmaking scheme. The image of Daphne, usually composed and aloof, participating in Hermione's campaign for the rights of house-elves was both amusing and intriguing.
"Welcome to S.P.E.W., Daphne Greengrass," Alexia said, offering a playful salute. "I'm sure Hermione will be delighted to have a new recruit, especially one from Slytherin."
Daphne rolled her eyes but couldn't hide a small smile. "Don't get too excited. I'm only doing this because of the deal. And you owe me one now."
With that, the two witches returned to the chaos of the Quidditch field, each secretly enjoying the unexpected twists and turns that friendship and alliances could bring in the magical world of Hogwarts. Hermione's arrival on the Quidditch field did not go unnoticed by Alexia, and as if drawn by an invisible force, Alexia's eyes lit up at the sight of her. The frown on Hermione's face, however, didn't go unnoticed either. With an enthusiastic smile, Alexia turned to Hermione, her excitement palpable. "Hey, Hermione! You won't believe it, but Daphne here is joining S.P.E.W. Can you believe it? The cause is gaining momentum!"
Hermione's frown deepened momentarily, a mixture of surprise and scepticism crossing her features. "Daphne? Joining S.P.E.W.?" she asked, glancing between Alexia and Daphne. "Is this some sort of joke, Alex?"
Daphne, standing beside Alexia, gave a half-hearted shrug. "Don't expect me to knit hats for house-elves anytime soon."
Hermione, despite her initial surprise, couldn't hide her excitement. "That's fantastic news! We could use all the support we can get. Welcome to S.P.E.W., Daphne!"
Daphne smirked at Alexia, acknowledging the debt that had been settled and the new alliance formed. Hermione, on the other hand, was already thinking about how Daphne's unique perspective could contribute to the cause.
"You two ladies keep talking I got a bunch of kids to-"
As she turns around, she sees complete chaos.
"...to prevent from choking themselves," Alexia finished her sentence, her attention immediately shifting to the two boys who seemed to be losing control of their brooms.
As Alexia continued to manage the exuberant group of first-year students, Hermione found a quiet spot to sit and observe after Daphne left. She couldn't help but smile as she watched Alexia's animated expressions, occasionally punctuated by moments of playful frustration when a broom went astray or a ball was mischievously handled by a young wizard.
The infectious laughter of the children echoed across the Quidditch field, creating a joyful atmosphere. Hermione marvelled at how effortlessly Alexia connected with the students, her patience and genuine care shining through. The sun dipped lower on the horizon, casting a warm glow over the scene.
In those moments of watching Alexia, Hermione's heart swelled with affection. Despite their recent misunderstandings and the challenges they faced, the sight of Alexia immersed in teaching and guiding brought a sense of reassurance. The connection between them seemed to transcend the complexities of their world, and Hermione couldn't help but be drawn to the genuine, caring spirit Alexia displayed.
As Alexia approached, still engaged in the chaos of Quidditch lessons, Hermione couldn't contain her laughter. Alexia, catching sight of Hermione, grinned and gestured with mock exasperation toward the mischievous students.
Alexia plopped down beside Hermione after dismissing the kids, a mischievous smirk playing on her lips. With a dramatic flourish, she presented a stack of parchments to Hermione, who looked at them with a mix of curiosity and confusion.
Hermione raised an eyebrow. "What's all this?"
Alexia's grin widened. "Oh, just some heartfelt essays from the kids about why they shouldn't hit me with their brooms anymore. Remember how I told them to write essays about my safety? They actually did."
Hermione's confusion deepened. "Essays? From the first years?"
Alexia chuckled. "That's right. Seems like my little Quidditch misadventures made quite an impression on them. Thought you might enjoy a good laugh."
Hermione started flipping through the essays, each containing a mixture of sincere apologies, comical drawings, and promises not to repeat their broom-related antics. As she read, her laughter bubbled up, and she couldn't help but appreciate the children's earnest efforts to make amends.
"Looks like you've inadvertently started a 'No Broom-Whacking' campaign," Hermione teased. Alexia grinned. "Well, I've always been an advocate for broom safety, you know."
Hermione's eyes lingered on a particular drawing, a crude yet endearing depiction of two figures walking hand in hand toward the hospital wing. The simplicity of the sketch captured a moment that had apparently left an impression on one of the first-years.
Alexia, noticing Hermione's interest, chuckled and pointed at the drawing. "Looks like someone witnessed our grand entrance to the hospital wing. Very artistic, don't you think?"
Hermione blushed, her laughter bubbling up. "It's... quite expressive."
The giggles from Hermione only intensified, creating a symphony of joy in the air. Alexia couldn't help but feel a warm flutter in her stomach at the sight and sound of Hermione's laughter. It was a moment of shared happiness, a bridge connecting them beyond any misunderstandings.
"Well, seems like our adventures are becoming legendary among the first years," Alexia remarked with a playful grin.
Hermione rolled her eyes, still smiling. "Legendary might be pushing it, but they certainly have an interesting perspective."
The vibrant energy of laughter slowly settled into a comfortable silence. Alexia's eyes, reflecting a mixture of playfulness and sincerity, met Hermione's gaze. In that quiet moment, a soft and almost shy whisper escaped Alexia's lips.
"Can I kiss you?"
Hermione, her heart fluttering with anticipation, nodded in response. The world seemed to pause as Alexia leaned in, closing the remaining distance between them. Their lips met in a gentle, tender kiss—a sweet exchange of emotions and unspoken feelings.
It was a kiss that spoke of understanding, of overcoming misunderstandings, and of the connection that had blossomed between them. The air around them held a sense of magic as if the enchantment of the wizarding world was blessing this moment of genuine affection.
As they pulled away, their eyes locked once more, sharing a silent conversation that spoke volumes. The lingering smiles on their faces revealed the promise of more shared moments and the budding romance that had found its way into their hearts.
---///---
The trio of friends—Ron, Harry, and Alexia—shared a hearty laugh as they observed the scene unfolding in the distance. Daphne appeared visibly bored, wearing an expression of mild indifference, while Hermione animatedly gestured and spoke with passion about S.P.E.W. Her hands moved with enthusiasm, painting vivid pictures of house-elf liberation.
Ron couldn't help but chuckle, exchanging amused glances with Harry and Alexia. They found it amusing how Hermione could dive so deeply into her causes, even when her audience didn't seem as enthralled. Alexia, in particular, couldn't suppress a grin as she watched the dynamic between Hermione and Daphne.
"Looks like Hermione's on another S.P.E.W. rant," Ron remarked, shaking his head in amusement.
Harry chuckled, "At least she's got Daphne as her captive audience this time."
Alexia added with a playful smirk, "I guess Daphne's paying her dues for joining S.P.E.W."
As they continued to share light-hearted banter, the bonds of friendship between them felt stronger than ever. The everyday moments of laughter and shared amusement were the threads that wove their connection into something enduring.
The ambience of the Great Hall enveloped Alexia as she immersed herself in the ancient-looking book that Dumbledore had entrusted to her. The weight of its secrets seemed to echo in the hallowed space. As she delved into its pages, the flickering flames in the fireplace cast dancing shadows, creating an atmosphere of mystery.
Ron and Harry, ever curious and aware of the recent events in the Forbidden Forest, approached Alexia with inquisitive glances. The anticipation hung in the air as they couldn't help but wonder if she had uncovered any revelations.
"So, Alexia," Ron ventured, his curiosity bubbling to the surface, "have you found anything interesting in that book Dumbledore gave you?"
Harry, too, leaned in, his gaze fixed on the worn pages. "Yeah, anything about what happened in the forest?"
Alexia looked up from the book, her eyes reflecting a mixture of concentration and intrigue. "Not about the forest, but I did find something fascinating," she replied, her tone measured.
The two friends leaned in, eager for insight. "What is it?" Harry asked.
"I found a list of names," Alexia explained, her voice hushed, "the names of all the wielders of the ancient magic before me. And guess whose name is on that list? Merlin himself."
A moment of stunned silence settled in the room, as the weight of the revelation sank in. The legendary figure of Merlin, renowned for his magical prowess, now connected to Alexia through the lineage of the wielders of the ancient magic.
Ron and Harry exchanged intrigued glances at Alexia's revelation. The mere mention of Merlin, one of the most legendary wizards in history, heightened their curiosity.
"Merlin?" Ron exclaimed, unable to hide his excitement. "You mean the Merlin? The one with the whole 'greatest wizard of all time' title?"
Alexia nodded, a thoughtful expression on her face. "Yes, the very same. It's fascinating to think that he was a wielder of the ancient magic."
Harry, equally intrigued, leaned in closer. "What else is in there? Anything about how to control or use the ancient magic?"
Alexia flipped through the pages, scanning the ancient text. "Not explicitly. It's more like a historical account of previous wielders, their experiences, and the impact of the ancient magic on their lives. Dumbledore mentioned that the book could help me prepare for when my ancient magic fully awakens."
As the trio absorbed the magnitude of the revelation, the ancient book in Alexia's hands became not just a collection of words but a portal to a legacy that intertwined with the very fabric of wizarding history.
The quartet made their way to the Transfiguration class later that day, the anticipation of the day's lessons hung in the air. Hermione, ever enthusiastic about her cause, couldn't contain her excitement about the new addition to S.P.E.W.
"Alexia, I can't believe Daphne joined S.P.E.W.!" Hermione exclaimed, a radiant smile lighting up her face. "This is fantastic news! We're gaining more support for our cause!"
Alexia returned the smile, appreciating Hermione's fervour for the rights of house elves. "Yeah, it's great to see more people getting involved. Who would've thought a Slytherin like Daphne would join our ranks?"
Entering the Transfiguration classroom, Alexia took her usual spot next to Harry, while Hermione settled into her seat beside Ron. As the class began, Professor McGonagall's stern demeanour commanded the attention of the students.
However, the atmosphere shifted when Professor McGonagall made a surprising announcement. "Before we proceed with today's lesson, I have an important announcement. The Yule Ball is fast approaching, and I expect each of you to conduct yourselves with utmost decorum. This is a tradition that has been reinstated for the Triwizard Tournament."
As Professor McGonagall continued to elaborate on the details of the Yule Ball, the atmosphere in the Transfiguration class shifted. The mention of the upcoming magical dance prompted a simultaneous groan from Harry and Alexia, seated side by side.
Alexia rolled her eyes and exchanged a knowing look with Harry, both sharing a sentiment of reluctance towards the idea of dancing.
McGonagall, unfazed by the students' reactions, continued to emphasize the importance of the Yule Ball as part of the Triwizard Tournament's traditions. However, the prospect of formal dancing seemed to have triggered a collective sigh of apprehension among those who were less keen on such social events.
As the class progressed, the groans were replaced by quiet mutterings and exchanged glances among the students. The looming presence of the Yule Ball on the horizon brought a mix of excitement, nervousness, and, for some, a subtle sense of dread.
Professor McGonagall, with her characteristic sternness, delivered a warning to the Gryffindor students about the upcoming Yule Ball. The prospect of the formal event seemed to require a reminder about proper behaviour and decorum.
"Now, I expect all of you to behave yourselves at the Yule Ball," McGonagall announced, her gaze sweeping across the Gryffindor students. "This is a formal occasion, and I won't tolerate any mischief. If necessary, I am fully prepared to teach you how to dance. So, consider yourselves warned."
The room hushed momentarily, the weight of McGonagall's words sinking in. However, her stern demeanour took an unexpected turn when she addressed Ron Weasley directly. "Mr. Weasley, stand up. I want to show you all some basic steps."
Ron caught off guard, stood up reluctantly, glancing nervously at his friends. Laughter rumbled through the room as Professor McGonagall took Ron's hand, leading him through a few dance steps right there in the classroom.
As Ron attempted to navigate the dance under McGonagall's guidance, the room couldn't contain its amusement. Harry and Alexia, seated together, exchanged amused glances and couldn't help but suppress laughter by putting their heads together.
The unexpected dance lesson served as a momentary distraction from the looming challenges of the Triwizard Tournament.
Alexia informed her friends about the upcoming detention with Snape, the anticipation of what lay ahead hung in the air. After the Transfiguration class, she made her way towards Snape's office, a mixture of curiosity and apprehension on her face.
Approaching the door, Alexia took a deep breath before knocking. The door creaked open, revealing Snape's stern countenance. He looked at her with an expectant gaze, acknowledging her presence without a word.
"Ah, Miss Jackson," Snape finally spoke, his voice carrying its usual undertone of disdain. "Your detention begins now. You will be organizing my materials for the upcoming potion classes. I expect everything to be in perfect order by the time you're done. Is that clear?"
Alexia nodded, trying to hide her annoyance. "Crystal clear, Professor Snape."
Snape gestured toward a table piled with vials, books, and various potion ingredients. "Begin immediately. And don't even think about attempting any shortcuts or using your... unique talents. I'll be watching."
With that, he swept out of the office, leaving Alexia alone in the dimly lit room. Sighing, she started organizing the materials, arranging vials and ingredients with precision.
As Alexia meticulously arranged the potion's ingredients, her mind began to wander. The familiar scent of certain ingredients triggered memories of her mother's potion work. Isadora Jackson was indeed skilled in potion-making, and she often shared her knowledge with Alexia.
Intrigued by the idea, Alexia couldn't help but wonder if Snape and her mother had been classmates at Hogwarts. She pictured them in a potions classroom, perhaps working together on an assignment or exchanging glances during lectures. The thought of her stern and imposing mother interacting with the equally stern Snape brought a subtle smile to Alexia's face.
The more she organized the materials, the more she entertained the idea of her mother and Snape crossing paths in their Hogwarts days. Alexia knew that Isadora had a reputation for being a talented witch, and the thought of her and Snape sharing the same academic space added an interesting layer to her understanding of Hogwarts history.
Lost in her daydream, Alexia continued to arrange the potion's ingredients, each vial and herb sparking memories of lessons with her mother. As she worked, she couldn't help but feel a connection between the generations, a shared love for the magical arts that transcended time.
Just posted the prologue for a new Kate Bishop fanfic if y'all interested (which you should cuz is Kate Bishop)
Also, a couple of days ago I posted a poems book... it will make sense in the next chapter.