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Hogwarts, mid July,

The sun is low in the sky across Hogwarts and its resident lake as I pant with exertion. The Black Lake glitters under the fading light, its surface reflecting the fiery hues of the evening. I stand precariously on a patch of ice in the middle of the lake, my wand is pointed downward, concentrating fiercely on keeping the ice beneath me solid. My breath comes in short, sharp bursts, misting in the chilly air due to my constant reapplications of the spell holding me aloft.

Professor Flamel, of course, looks entirely unbothered by the situation, lounging comfortably on the shore with a relaxed grin. He holds a slender wand in one hand, casually twirling it between his fingers as he watches me struggle. "Focus, Lucas," He calls out, his tone light but with a hint of schadenfreude beneath it. "The ice is thinning…"

I grit my teeth, feeling the tremor of magic faltering under my feet. My arm is tired from holding my wand steady for so long, and my concentration is slipping, but I can't afford to lose focus now, I will beat this challenge. "Easier said than done, Professor," I mutter under my breath, doing my best to channel more magic into the ice. I feel it spreading, my magic trying to reinforce the patch I'm standing on, but it's like holding back a tide with a spoon.

Suddenly, a jet of water shoots up from the lake, aimed directly at me. I barely manage to twist out of the way, my heart leaping into my throat as I stumble and slide on the ice. "What the - !"

"Surprise spell," Professor Flamel calls cheerily from the shore, barely glancing up from the book he's lazily thumbing through with his free hand. "You need to keep your awareness up, lad. This is not just about power, but perception and adaptability."

I regain my balance, my mind racing. I can't let my concentration waver again. Not only do I need to keep the ice solid under my feet, but I also have to dodge whatever else Professor Flamel decides to throw my way. It's never just one thing with this guy…

"Now," Professor Flamel continues, casting a nonchalant eye in my direction, "Since you have a moment to breathe, let's talk about the practical applications of Ancient Runes and Arithmancy for magic."

"Professor," I gasp, barely managing to dodge another spell - a bolt of bright red light that sizzles as it skims the ice near me. "I'm a bit - occupied at the moment!" You bloody wanker!

Professor Flamel chuckles, clearly enjoying himself. "Multitasking, Lucas! It's a crucial skill in magic. Ancient Runes, for example, are more than just static symbols of power; they're a fundamental language that can alter the very fabric of magic if understood properly, you're already aware of this of course, but only to the limited view textbooks allow."

I take a deep breath, trying to push aside my frustration, as annoying as it is to be taught while under these conditions, it's better than a desk and a textbook... "How does that tie into Arithmancy at a higher level of understanding, then?" I ask, if only to keep him talking and hopefully distracted enough to go easier on me.

As he said, I'm well aware of the common uses of the subjects. For Merlin's sake I have a NEWT in Arithmancy. But I have a feeling he's leading into something.

He obliges with a small smile, twirling his wand again lazily. "Arithmancy provides the structure as you know - the mathematical precision needed to enhance or modify the effects of spells and different fields of magic. Think of Ancient Runes as the language, and Arithmancy as the syntax. Together, they allow a wizard to not just cast spells, but to innovate, to create new forms of magic, to weave spells that have never been conceived before."

I try to focus on his words, though my mind is half-occupied with maintaining the ice under my feet. "So… I already know this, Professor? No offense." I venture, hoping that he'll get to the point even while I dodge another splash of icy water that suddenly erupts beside me.

Professor Flamel nods, looking amused. "Such a precocious little student I have." He mused, flipping another page in his book lazily.

I wish I could say it was a rare tome from ancient Sumeria or something - but no. My erstwhile Professor is reading 101 ways to cook a Hippogriff. For some reason.

Merlin and Morgana, please tell me we are not hunting and eating Hippogriffs tomorrow… I can't help but think, even as half my ice platform suddenly evaporates at another lazy flick of his wand, forcing me to balance on one foot as I rebuild it, water sloughing over my foot as I wobble.

Professor Flamel finally actually answers my question, "The pinnacle of Arithmancy and Runes have always been considered spell crafting and warding." He explains, scoffing lightly, "Because most wizards and witches lack the ability or the qualities necessary to go further." He twirls his wand for a moment, and I bring my own up casting the quickest protego of my life as a golden bullet impacts my shield, shattering it, but not knocking me off my platform, "Every aspect of magic can be quantified in Arithmancy if one can figure out the how, magic itself is in part, a language, which runes can assist in deciphering."

I nod, though my concentration wavers for a second as a ripple of water rises up to my knee, nearly knocking me off balance. I correct my stance, digging my wand deeper into the ice, channeling more magic to strengthen it. I've been out here for what feels like hours, every muscle in my body screaming from the effort. Yet somehow, hearing Professor Flamel's voice, even as he lazily lectures at me, keeps me grounded.

"Is this why you're so insistent I study these subjects further?" I manage to ask, panting.

Professor Flamel's smile widens, and I can see a hint of approval in his eyes. "Partially. You've got a true knack for Divination, Lucas, but to truly master it, to understand its potential and limitations, you must understand the broader spectrum of magic. Divination, Arithmancy, Runes - they are all interconnected. They shape and are shaped by one another. You can't read the future without understanding the threads of magic that weave it together."

I try to digest this, but my thoughts are interrupted as Professor Flamel flicks his wand again, sending a stream of small, stinging hexes my way. I yelp, raising my arm instinctively, but the hexes curve around my shield charm, forcing me to duck, several hitting me, as I let out a hiss. Still, my concentration doesn't break.

How the fuck did he do that? I wonder, curving his spell after it's already been fired, I want that.

"This is insane," I mutter under my breath, sliding across the slick ice, struggling to keep my footing. "I'm not getting any better at this -"

"You're doing much better than you think, Lucas," Professor Flamel interrupts, his tone a mixture of encouragement and amusement. "You're keeping the ice intact, aren't you? Your reaction time has improved significantly. You just need to believe in your abilities more, I can say with great confidence that I've never met a twelve year old who could have done the same." He pauses for a moment before adding, "Well except for myself, because I was born perfect and have maintained it for my entire life, but being second best is still a feat, lad."

I grit my teeth, frustrated. "It's hard to believe in myself when I'm barely able to keep this up, and if you were really trying I'd be deep in the water already."

Professor Flamel laughs, a sound that's equal parts amused and exasperated. "Ah, you remind me so much of my younger days. Always in a hurry to master everything, never realizing that the struggle is part of the learning - not that I ever struggled really. Remember, every spell you dodge, every stumble you recover from, is progress."

I try to focus on his words, to draw some encouragement from them, but it's hard. Every part of my body feels like it's on fire, and the chill of the lake isn't helping me keep my focus. I'm exhausted, my magic reserves nearly tapped, but I push on. Because he's right, damn it. I have gotten better. I've learned so much under his torturous tutelage, and I can't let myself give up now.

I think back to the past month and all the insane things Professor Flamel has put me through, like balancing on a broomstick while trying to dodge bludgers while controlling a swarm of feathers with my wand. Attempting to transfigure a stone into an animated creature while Professor Flamel made me run through an enchanted obstacle course, penalizing me with spellfire for every mistake in the transfiguration, and, of course, the endless hours spent on perfecting more wandless magic, which left my magic numb and my head pounding.

And yet, despite all of that, I can't deny that I'm stronger now than I was before. My magic flows more freely, my spells are more controlled, and my instincts are sharper. It's just hard to remember that when you're constantly being put through the ringer.

A sudden wave of freezing water crashes against the ice, nearly sweeping me off my feet. I let out a startled cry, my wand flaring as I reinforce the ice, just barely keeping it from cracking under the onslaught. "What the hell, Professor!" I shout, more out of reflex than anything else.

Professor Flamel chuckles again, lazily waving his wand to dismiss the spell controlling the waves. "That's more like it, Lucas! Keep that spirit up. You'll need it if you're going to improve."

Before I can retort, a sharp pop echoes across the lake, and a house elf appears beside Professor Flamel, holding out a small envelope. "Master Flamel, sir," The elf squeaks, bowing deeply. "A letter for yous student, sir."

Professor Flamel takes the envelope with a raised eyebrow, his interest piqued. He scans the letter quickly - my Merlin damned letter! - his lips curling into a mischievous smile as he glances over at me. "Well, well, seems one of your admirers requests your presence tonight, Lucas," He says, waving the letter teasingly. "How forward. As a gentleman, I will of course give you the night off!"

I roll my eyes, panting as I lower my wand, the ice beneath me starting to thin again now that my concentration is wavering. "No one has ever thought of you as a gentleman, Professor," I mutter, though there's a hint of a smile on my lips despite my exhaustion.

I'm also curious who exactly is demanding my presence, or if that's just the professor making shit up again.

Professor Flamel chuckles, pocketing the letter. "True enough, lad. True enough. Come on, let's get you back to solid ground before I have to fish you out of the lake."

I exhale a sigh of relief, carefully making my way toward the shore, extending the ice for each step while dismissing it behind me, my legs shaking with each step. It's been another grueling day under Professor Flamel's watchful eye, but as always, I can't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. Even if it's just for surviving another one of his training sessions.

Maybe I will get strong enough to make a difference after all?

----------------------------------------

An hour later, Manchester suburb.

As Professor Flamel and I approach Su Li's house, I can't help but think it looks perfectly ordinary. Nestled in a quiet suburb outside Manchester, the exterior is typical - whitewashed walls, a red brick chimney, and a neat little garden with a low wooden fence. If I didn't know better, I'd say this was the kind of place where nothing magical could ever happen.

But the moment we pass through the wards, the scenery changes dramatically. It's like stepping through a curtain into another world. The front garden, once neat and mundane, now extends into an expansive courtyard designed in the traditional Chinese style. A stone path weaves through a meticulously arranged landscape of expertly curated trees, bamboo groves, and flowering cherry blossoms. The air carries a subtle scent of jasmine and sandalwood, a fragrance that seems to emanate from the greenery itself.

Ahead, the house comes into full view, and it's nothing like the modest suburban home I initially saw. The building is a large, sprawling structure with a curved, upturned roof, its tiles gleaming with a rich jade color. Intricate carvings of dragons and phoenixes wind their way along the eaves, and red lanterns hang from the edges, swaying gently in the breeze. It's all so different from the magical architecture I've seen before, distinctly oriental and vibrant with life and color. The entire space feels like it's been transported straight from the countryside of China, a bubble of another world nestled within England.

As we approach the ornate gate leading to the main courtyard, I spot Su Li waiting for us. She's dressed in a beautiful qipao, a traditional Chinese dress that hugs her tiny frame, made of silk with a delicate pattern of cranes and lotus flowers embroidered in gold and green. Her hair is tied up with a jade comb, and her cheeks are flushed a deep red, making her look almost as vibrant as the landscape around us. She fidgets with the gate latch, clearly nervous, her blush deepening as we draw nearer.

As a good friend, I will refrain from saying out loud that she looks adorable all dressed up. I don't want her to get too embarrassed. I'll save that for later.

"Hello, Su!" I call out with a friendly wave, trying to put her at ease.

"Hi, Lucas," She replies softly, avoiding my gaze as she opens the gate to let us in.

I have to wonder if it is her mom's idea for her to dress so fancily for what is in essence just hanging out - or if it was Su's choice. I myself am simply in muggle clothing, nothing fancy, and feel distinctly underdressed right now.

Professor Flamel leans over to me, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Your girlfriend is quite adorable," He fake-whispers slyly.

Su's face turns an even deeper shade of red, and she stammers out, "I'm not - he's not - ! We're just friends!"

I roll my eyes, nudging Professor Flamel with my elbow. "Get lost, Professor. You're just embarrassing her." The sooner he's gone the sooner I can avoid having him embarrass me as well…

Professor Flamel chuckles and steps back, holding up his hands in mock surrender. "I'm off, I'm off. Don't worry, Miss Li, he's all yours now." The sly look reappears as he gives a parting comment, "You break him, you buy him."

Su looks like she's about to implode from embarrassment as Professor Flamel disapparates with a pop. I turn back to her, giving her an apologetic smile. "Don't mind him; he's just like that. No offense meant."

Su gives a shy nod, still blushing furiously. "It's okay. He's… Nice, I think?"

I chuckle. "Nice is a stretch, but he means well in his own way." Knowledgeable, a tyrant taskmaster, and crazy, yes, nice… I'm not so sure.

As we walk up the stone path towards the house, Su begins to relax, her initial nervousness melting away. She points out various features of the garden with growing enthusiasm. "All of this was imported from China," She explains, gesturing to the bamboo grove we pass. "My mom wanted our home to feel like the one our line came from."

"It's amazing," I say honestly, marveling at the serene beauty around us, I feel relaxed just being here. "I didn't even know this place was here until we were right up against the wards. The concealment is perfect." I compliment, because the wards are very strong and well crafted.

Su smiles proudly. "My mom bought the best wards available. She said it was important to keep a piece of home hidden and protected." She blushes slightly again, before adding quietly, "From barbarians…"

Well, from what I've read and seen, Magical Britain can definitely be classified as barbarians at times, I think, but I don't say it out loud, instead I nod, genuinely impressed, stifling a chuckle at Su's embarrassment. The level of magic in place here is advanced, far beyond what you'd see in most wizarding homes. It's clear that Su's family takes their privacy and heritage seriously.

We reach the front steps, and Su leads me into the house. As we step inside, I'm greeted by an interior that's just as breathtaking as the exterior. The floors are polished wood, dark and rich, with intricate patterns carved along the edges. The walls are adorned with traditional style paintings, landscapes of mountains, rivers, and misty forests that seem to shimmer with a life of their own. Lanterns hang from the ceiling, casting a soft, warm glow throughout the space.

The furniture is all crafted from dark, lacquered wood, each piece elegantly carved with motifs of dragons, phoenixes, and other so-called mythical creatures - all real in the magical world of course. There's a large, low table in the center of the main room, surrounded by cushioned chairs, and a tea set made of fine porcelain sits atop it, as if waiting for a ceremony to begin.

Just as I'm taking it all in, a voice rings out from the far side of the room. "Welcome to our home, Lucas!" The sensuality of the voice is like a caress, and I suddenly remember that Su's mom is an actual model.

I turn to see Su's mother walking towards us, and I have to consciously keep my jaw from dropping. She's wearing a tight sundress made of deep red silk, the fabric clinging to her curves and ending well above the knee - much shorter than what would typically be worn in polite company. Her hair is elegantly styled, cascading down her back in soft waves, and her honey coloured eyes are bright and amused as she approaches.

"Hello, Miss Li," I manage, trying to keep my voice steady as she offers me her hand. It's a dainty hand, perfectly manicured, and I take it lightly, bowing my head to place a polite kiss on the back. Don't embarrass yourself, I repeat like a mantra in my head.

This woman had already clocked me 'appreciating' her looks when we first met, I don't need the embarrassment of ogling my friend's mom right now.

Her laughter is a light, tinkling sound, and I realize too late that I've walked right into a trap by kissing her hand. "Such a charmer," She teases, her eyes glittering with amusement. "Su, darling, you'd better watch out. He's going to be trouble in the future."

Su's face is practically glowing red now, and she mumbles something incoherent as she glances anywhere but at me. I let go of Miss Li's hand, trying to hide my embarrassment. "I'm sorry, Miss Li. I didn't mean -"

She waves off my apology with a throaty laugh, her perfect lips curved into a teasing smile. "Oh, don't worry, Lucas. I'm just teasing. You don't have to worry about formalities here, you're my darling's special friend after all."

"Thank you," I say, giving her a sheepish smile. Special friend? Isn't just friendship enough?

"Dinner will be ready shortly," Miss Li continues, her tone becoming less teasing and more homely. "Feel free to go up to Su's room. It's just down the hall and up the stairs, you two can 'hang out' and enjoy yourselves."

Su quickly grabs my hand, dragging me towards the staircase with a muttered, "This way, Lucas." As we start to ascend, her mom calls out again, her voice sing-song. "And leave the door open, Spitfire! You'll have to practice kissing in Hogwarts cupboards like everyone else, not in my home!"

Su's grip on my hand tightens, and she practically pulls me up the stairs, her face so red I swear I can see steam rising from her ears. "I'm so sorry about my mom!" She wails once we're out of earshot. "Adults are all stupid!"

I chuckle, trying to keep up with her rapid pace. "It's fine, really. She's…" I fumble my words, not wanting to accidentally say something like - hot.

Su lets out a keening wail, clearly mortified. "Not you too!" She complains, likely all too used to it.

"Hey, I'm not complaining about it all really," I tease, giving her a gentle nudge, moving things away from talking about her mom. "You're cute when you blush, you know." After all, if you can't beat them, join them. And making Su blush is a worthy cause.

She lets out a groan, hiding her face in her hands. "Not fair, Lucas! You're supposed to be on my side!"

I laugh, holding up my hands in surrender. "Okay, okay, I'm sorry. I'll be good, I promise."

Su peeks at me from between her fingers, her expression a mix of embarrassment and amusement. "You'd better."

She leads me to her room, and I'm immediately struck by how cozy and inviting it is. The walls are painted a soft lavender, and there are shelves lined with books, both magical and mundane. A small desk sits by the window, covered in parchment, quills, and an assortment of colorful ink bottles. There's a plush rug on the floor, embroidered with the same crane and lotus motif as her dress, and a low bed with a canopy draped in gauzy, silver fabric. It's also filled with stuffed animals.

Everywhere.

"This is really nice," I say, taking in the space. "Very... You."

Very cute, I don't say, but I'm thinking it, as I look around at the abundance of stuffed animals.

Su smiles, finally starting to relax again. "Thanks. My mom and I decorated it together. She's really into making sure everything feels like a real home."

"I can tell," I reply, admiring the effort and detail that's gone into every corner of the house. It certainly didn't feel like the regular stuffy Pureblood home you saw much of in this country, all dark and drab. "Everything here is so... Unique. And the wards inside here are as incredible as the ones outside." I close my eyes, feeling the taste of the magic. Not surprisingly a lot of the wards are focused around Su's room, "Wow… Is that really a ward for ensuring sweet dreams?" I say somewhat bemused.

That's a lot of money and effort in warding for a very difficult piece of mind affecting magic - for such a small thing as ensuring Su had nice dreams.

Su beams with pride. "Yeah, my mom didn't want to settle for anything less than the best. She said it was important to keep a part of our heritage intact, even here in England."

Chinese wards huh? That's why they feel so different I suppose, a different language and a different way to tackle issues… I really wish Hogwarts and Britain in general had more on other cultures, lamenting how isolation had only stymied innovation.

We settle down on the rug, and I lean against the side of her bed, feeling the softness of the fabric beneath my fingers. "So, what have you been up to this summer?" I ask, genuinely curious. I know she went to China, but letters can't really share the experience.

Su sits cross-legged across from me, her hands resting in her lap. "We went back to China for a bit," She explains. "Visited some family who never left." She smiles slightly, reminiscing, "And we got to see the dragon dances of Shangri-la."

"That sounds nice," I say. "How was your family?" I ask, having heard her describe the part ritual, part theater, that was the dragon dances before.

It wasn't so dissimilar from the old British fertility of the land rituals, only with a lot more flair and show for the effort. And Dragons. The dragons really bumped it up a step.

Su hesitates for a moment, her brow furrowing slightly. "It was... Okay, I guess. A bit dry and boring, honestly. China's been clamping down on a lot of 'foreign' magics lately, trying to keep the homeland pure." She sounds a bit put out at that.

That piques my interest immediately. "Is there anything specifically that's considered Chinese magic?" I ask, leaving aside the fact China was becoming more isolationist. Damn it, don't become more British, you're a bastion of free magic! I think, but don't say, since Su might be sensitive about the whole thing.

I really didn't know enough about China, but their magical community was supposed to be wildly free of restrictions compared to the western world.

Su nods, her expression brightening a little as she begins to explain. "Yeah, there's a lot that's unique to Chinese magic. For one, we have a strong tradition of elemental magic that's not really found elsewhere - working directly with the elements and elemental spirits rather than using spells to manipulate them. It's more about forming a connection with the element itself, understanding its nature, and then working in harmony with it."

"That sounds really different from what we learn at Hogwarts," I say, intrigued. "I mean, we do learn spells for manipulating fire, water, and so on, but it's all very controlled. This sounds like it's more... Organic, I guess?" Also sounds more powerful, but I suppose it is also more time consuming. The decades to master kind of thing…

Su smiles and nods. "Exactly. It's more intuitive. And then there are things like calligraphy magic, where the shape and flow of the brush strokes imbue an item with power. It's a really precise art, combining the magic of words with the magic of form."

"That sounds amazing," I say, genuinely fascinated. "I'd love to learn more about that." I'm a complete idiot, why have I never asked Su, or Padma for that matter, more about their culture?

Su shrugs. "It's not something we really learn here. My mom taught me some basics, but it's hard to find proper teachers outside of China. And like I said, the government there has been pretty strict about what they allow these days. They're worried about 'corruption' from foreign influences."

I can't help but frown at that. "That seems... Limiting. There's so much to learn from other cultures and magical traditions. Why close themselves off like that?" The cynic in me says that someone powerful will make more money/keep more power if foreigners are curtailed - and therefore arranged it.

Su sighs. "I don't know. It's frustrating. But that's how it is. I just hope things will change someday." She bites her lip, "I think it's something that's been coming a long while."

Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.

It would explain why her mom moved here.. I can't help but think, hoping that whatever is going on over there won't limit my ability to travel one day and learn from them.

Before I can say anything more, we hear Miss Li calling us from downstairs. "Dinner's ready!"

We exchange a glance, and Su rolls her eyes with a small smile. "Let's go before my mom decides to come up here and drag us down herself, I don't want to hear anything embarrassing again."

We head downstairs, the scent of delicious food growing stronger with each step. When we reach the dining room, I'm greeted by an incredible spread of authentic Chinese dishes. There are steaming platters of dumplings, a colorful array of stir-fried vegetables and rice, a whole duck sits glistening as the centerpiece, and there's several dishes I can't even name, all beautifully arranged on a long table set with delicate porcelain dishes and chopsticks.

Miss Li is already seated at the head of the table, still wearing her short sundress that hugs her curves. She looks as stunning as ever, and somehow not a single hair is out of place, even after cooking all of this herself - although maybe the house elf did it all... She gives us a warm smile as we enter. "I hope you're hungry, Lucas. I made everything myself, much to the dismay of our house elves. English elves just can't get Chinese food quite right," She says with a sniff of disdain.

"I'm sure it's wonderful, Miss Li," I say sincerely, taking a seat across from Su. Well, there's me making assumptions and immediately proven wrong.

We start to eat, and the food is as delicious as it looks. Every bite is a new burst of flavor, each dish perfectly seasoned and cooked. It's clear Miss Li knows her way around a kitchen. As we eat, she starts asking about Hogwarts, her tone light and teasing.

"So, Su never shuts up about you, you know," She says with a wink. "You must have made quite the impression."

"Mom!" Su groans, her cheeks turning pink again as she tries to keep her mother from embarrassing her further.

I chuckle, feeling a bit embarrassed myself but also amused by Miss Li's teasing. "I guess I've just been busy with classes and everything. Hogwarts can be a bit overwhelming, especially with everything that's been going on, and I guess I've stood out a bit."

Miss Li nods, her expression turning a bit more serious. "I heard you've already completed several NEWTs. That made quite the splash. People are watching now, you know. You're mentioned every week in the Prophet, even if it's just a small blurb."

I blink in surprise, not having realized how much attention I'd been getting. "I didn't know that. I don't usually read the paper that closely." I need to give myself half an hour a day and read it front to back, never know what mess could come from it.

Su shoots her mother a pleading look. "Mom, you're monopolizing my friend. Can't we just enjoy dinner?"

Miss Li rests her chin in her hand, giving Su a loving smile. "It's a mother's job, dear. I have to make sure he's a good match for my little spitfire."

"Mom!" Su's voice is louder than I've ever heard it, a mix of embarrassment and frustration coloring her cheeks even redder.

I glance at Su in surprise. "I don't think I've ever heard you raise your voice like that."

She mumbles something indistinct, clearly mortified.

Miss Li laughs, a light, musical sound. "You're both so cute. But don't worry, I'm just teasing. Come back in two years or so, and maybe we'll have a different conversation."

Suddenly I feel a pleasurable tingle, like something is tickling my brain, and then a voice appears in my head, Cassiopeia!

"Hmpfh, you have good taste." She compliments me, looking out of my eyes.

I haltingly keep up with the dinner table conversation even as I think back at her, hesitant to truly converse with the dangerous woman in this setting, "What do you mean, if I may ask?"

"Her measurements are 39 - 24 - 36, pretty much perfect, magic was used." Cassiopeia states almost clinically, with just an undercurrent of appreciation.

I blanch as I try not to stare at Miss Li, "You can tell her measurements just by sight like that? And what do you mean magic was used?"

I can feel the smirk in her voice as she replies, "I am intimately familiar with exquisite female bodies, you have no idea how many times my tongue -"

"That's enough of that!" I put a stop to that immediately, even as I chat with Su, the tips of my ears reddening, "I'm at the dinner table of my friend, please don't!"

Cassiopeia clicks her tongue, "Tch, a boy entering puberty being such a bore? You realize the only reason I got a good look for the measurements was because of your staring?"

I masterfully keep a blush back, "Do you want something, Cassiopeia?" I ask her mentally, trying to change the subject.

"Hmpfh, not anymore, I haven't had a libido in a while, nor the material to use for it, your friend's mother will do for such for now." She cut the connection, and I'm left almost gaping in shock at the table.

Did she… Did she just tell me she was going to go masturbate? Did the overpowered seeress create a mind link with me so she could spy on pretty women?

What. The. Fuck.

…. No… She's messing with me. She has to be. Divination would allow her to spy on even the most beautiful couples while they were intimate, or self pleasuring, not that… It is anything I've ever thought of or anything.

Also she distracted me enough that I never got an answer to what magic Miss Li had used…

With Cassiopeia gone and my full attention back, the rest of the dinner is much more relaxed. We talk about our classes, and Su's mom shares some stories from her own time as a student. She's surprisingly funny and has a knack for making everyone around her feel at ease - she's definitely a social butterfly, perfect for a model. By the end of the meal, I'm feeling more comfortable than I have in a long time, good food, good company. It's been relaxing, minus the brief Cassiopeia panic.

Eventually, though, the evening comes to an end. Professor Flamel appears with a pop just outside the wards, and I say my goodbyes.

"Thank you for having me, Miss Li. Dinner was amazing," I say sincerely.

She smiles warmly, giving me a gentle pat on the cheek. "You're welcome anytime, Lucas. It was a pleasure having you, take care of my little spitfire, hmm?"

Su walks me to the gate, her blush finally starting to fade. "Sorry about my mom," She says with a sheepish smile. "She can be a bit... Much."

I laugh. "Don't worry about it. She's great. And so are you." I wink at her, giving her a thankful smile. I did enjoy myself. Not everything has to be about magic or growing stronger.

Su gives me a shy smile, and for a moment, I think she might say something more, but Professor Flamel calls out from the edge of the wards, breaking the moment. "Time to go, Lucas. Can't keep Hogwarts waiting forever."

I roll my eyes but smile at Su. "See you soon, yeah?"

She nods, her smile growing a little more confident. "Yeah. See you soon."

I turn and walk towards Professor Flamel, who's waiting with that same mischievous glint in his eye. "Had a good time with your girlfriend?" He teases.

I groan, but I can't help but laugh. "Just take me back to Hogwarts, will you?"

Professor Flamel chuckles and places a hand on my shoulder. "Alright, alright. Let's go."

With a pop, we disapparate, leaving the serene beauty of Su's home behind and returning to the familiar halls of Hogwarts.

----------------------------------------

Hogwarts, few days later,

Professor Flamel is finally taking a break from training me, sequestered in his office and preparing his curriculum for the year. I can only imagine him, surrounded by piles of books, deciding which ones to keep and which ones to toss aside. He'd probably want something obscure and incredibly complex for his students - half to challenge them, half to show off his own vast knowledge.

He is going to be a trial to many students this year and beyond.

His absence leaves me with the perfect opportunity to return to the Room of Requirement. I haven't had a chance to go back in over a week, and there's still so much to sort through. The Room has been a treasure trove of forgotten items, a maze of abandoned and misplaced objects that students have stashed away for centuries. Over the past month and a half or so, I've been working my way through it, cataloging the valuables and setting them aside. As an orphan, I know that even though my financial situation might change soon - Tonks has been promising that the paperwork would go through any day now - I still refuse to be a complete dependent, hence the RoR.

Besides, with magical trunks and shrinking spells, it's no hardship to bring everything with me. I can sell it all in Knockturn or Diagon Alley sometime this summer. I have an entire chest of jewels alone, for Merlin's sake. Not to mention the antiques - some with questionable histories - that have just been gathering dust in the room. Like the Nundu fur rug I found last week, sprawled beneath a pile of broken furniture. It's the softest thing I've ever touched, almost unnaturally so. It has this texture that's both smooth and resilient, and it catches the light in a way that almost makes it shimmer. I'm tempted to keep it just for the comfort, though the thought of explaining to Tonks why I have a Nundu rug in my possession makes me reconsider.

What the hell is something like that even doing at Hogwarts, anyway? I wonder if anyone even knows it's here. I briefly entertain the idea of riding a Nundu, picturing myself atop the enormous beast, navigating through dense jungles and chasing after terrified poachers. But then I imagine Tonks catching wind of that thought, and I quickly shove it to the back of my mind. No need to invite that kind of chaos into my life.

Tonks is far scarier then a Nundu, because she's here, and the Nundu isn't.

I head to the far side of the Room, where I've been sorting a pile of old furniture. There are chairs with intricate carvings, desks with hidden compartments, and even a wardrobe that I'm pretty sure once belonged to some wealthy pureblood family. But one piece catches my eye - a tall, dark wardrobe that seems almost alive with its glistening, polished wood. As I get closer, I realize why it stood out.

The wood is carved with the likeness of a face, twisted in what looks like pain or agony. It's eerie, and as I brush my fingers over it, a cold shiver runs down my spine. This is no ordinary wood - it feels almost sentient, and the texture is oddly warm, pulsing slightly under my touch.

Is this... Made from a Dryad? The thought is chilling. Dryads are magical creatures connected to trees, their spirits intertwined with nature. For someone to make furniture out of one... That's just sick. How did something like this even end up at Hogwarts?

Would destroying it help? Ease the suffering? Or am I projecting?

Before I can ponder the ethical implications further, a shudder runs through me - again an oddly pleasurable sensation that makes my brain tingle. And then I hear it again - a voice echoing inside my head, smooth and lazy.

"This is what you do with your free time? Boring. You're boring," Cassiopeia drawls, her tone laced with playful disdain. "Oh, you found aunties wardrobe…" She adds with a pleased note.

I mentally grit my teeth. "I'm twelve years old," I think back, "I'm sorry if I'm not out fighting dragons." And no surprise it belonged to a Black, destroy it, it is then, I think to myself.

"Apology accepted, for now," She thinks back, her tone as imperious as ever.

I let out a sigh, more exasperated than annoyed. "What do you want?" I ask, pinching the bridge of my nose, hoping it's not anything similar to last time. This is only the second time we've communicated like this, but I already know she's trouble.

"Entertain me," She demands, her voice lilting with a kind of playful command that makes me groan inwardly.

"Be more concise," I reply, feeling my patience wane. "What do you mean by entertainment anyway?" I'm definitely wary now.

I'm going to have to start pumping her for knowledge soon if she's going to keep popping in like this.

She's silent for a moment, as if contemplating her answer. But then her tone shifts, becoming more petulant. "Never mind, I'm too bored now," She says, and just like that, she's gone, the connection severed abruptly.

I shake my head, trying to refocus on the task at hand. That girl is flighty as hell. It's hard to keep up with her moods, let alone understand what she wants from me half the time. I push the thought aside and turn back to the wardrobe, deciding it's best to leave the Dryad relic for another day. To return it to the earth in a respectful and final way.

I'd have to do some research first.

Instead, I make my way to a section I haven't explored yet, where stacks of books teeter precariously atop broken shelves and a few ancient-looking chests. One of the chests catches my eye - a small, ornate box covered in faded runes. I kneel down and carefully lift the lid, half-expecting something dangerous to jump out.

Inside, I find two wands, both nestled in a bed of deep blue velvet. I gently pick up the first one - it's a dark, almost black wood, smooth and polished to a fine sheen. As I hold it, I can feel a faint hum of magic, like a low thrum resonating through my fingertips. A good match, huh?

"Dragon heartstring," I mutter to myself, recognizing the distinctive feel of the core. The wand is about twelve inches, with a slightly curved shape that feels good in my hand, its weight balanced perfectly.

I set it down and pick up the second wand. This one is a lighter wood, maybe chestnut, with intricate carvings running along its length. It's a bit longer, around fourteen inches, and has a rigid feel to it, the dragon heartstring core pulsating with a different kind of energy - more intense, almost aggressive. Again, a good match.

Much better then anything else I've found.

I take the wands out of their velvet lining and close the chest, a satisfied smile on my face. These will make excellent backups. I strap one to an invisible ankle holster and secure the other in a similar invisible sheath on my off-arm - picked up earlier in the RoR just waiting for a decent pair of backups. It feels good to have a contingency plan, especially with all the strange things that always happen around Hogwarts.

As I turn to leave, something else catches my eye - a pile of what looks like old, tattered scrolls stuffed haphazardly into a cracked urn. I pull one out carefully, unrolling it to reveal an ancient map of Hogwarts of some kind, drawn in faded ink. The lines are jagged and the writing is in a language I don't recognize, but the symbols etched along the borders catch my attention. They're not quite runes, but they carry the same kind of arcane power.

I tuck the scroll into my pocket, figuring I'll examine it more closely later. For now, I've gathered enough for one day. I glance around the room one last time, taking in the vast array of forgotten objects. This place could be a veritable goldmine if I have the patience to sort through it all.

With a satisfied nod, I make my way toward the exit, my pockets a little heavier with the spoils of the day. As I step back into the corridor, the door to the Room of Requirement vanishes behind me, leaving nothing but a blank stretch of stone wall.

I can't help but smile. The Room has been good to me so far, and I have a feeling it has a lot more to offer. As I make my way back to the common room, I mentally run through everything I still need to do - catalog the rest of the items, prepare for my meeting with the Tonkses, and maybe see if I can figure out more about those scrolls.

For now, though, I'm content. I have enough to keep me busy, and with any luck, I'll be able to turn a tidy profit before the summer is out.

----------------------------------------

Two days later, as I'm eating breakfast in the Great Hall, Dumbledore approaches with his usual twinkling eyes and serene smile. "Good morning, Lucas," He says, his voice warm.

I set my spoon down and sit up straight. "Morning, Professor. Is something up?"

"I have some news that I believe you'll find quite pleasant," He begins. "The Tonkses have officially obtained custody of you. The parchmentwork is complete, and if you'd like, I can escort you over to their home after breakfast."

Relief washes over me - this is good news, much better than returning to the orphanage - or well, a orphanage at this point. But there's an undercurrent of annoyance too. I can't shake the thought of how this was all handled. Not a single person from the Ministry thought to ask my opinion. A pureblood like Andromeda Tonks wants a muggleborn orphan? They move mountains to get the parchmentwork through. But they don't consider for a second that the 'dirty little Mudblood' might have a say in the matter.

"Thank you, Professor," I say, trying to keep my tone even. Still, I can't quite hide the edge in my voice.

Dumbledore gives me a sympathetic nod, clearly understanding my frustration. He doesn't bother with platitudes, which I appreciate. We both know this is the world we live in - where people like me don't always get a voice. "I understand your feelings, Lucas," He says softly. "It's an unfortunate reality of our society, but I hope this arrangement will be a positive change for you."

I nod, accepting his words even though they don't make the situation any less frustrating. "Yeah, I hope so too," I reply.

Dumbledore's expression softens slightly. "On another note, the Ministry has sent over the materials for all muggleborn students this morning. I'll ensure those are sent to the Tonkses as well."

I grimace at that. The Greenwood Law, named after me, is still a bitter pill to swallow. On one hand, educating muggleborns properly is vital, but the way it's been implemented - with mandatory tests and remedial classes for those who've grown up in the wizarding world - feels intrusive. I can already imagine the grumbling from my muggleborn classmates when they return in September, knowing they'll have extra work because of a law named after me.

Dumbledore seems to sense my unease. "Change often comes with discomfort," He says gently. "But remember, it's all in the pursuit of a better future for everyone, no matter the reason, more knowledge is a boon, not a waste."

I finish the last of my breakfast, nodding at his words. "I get it, Professor. Thanks." Please spare me the kindly old mentor act.

Once I'm done eating, Dumbledore gestures for me to follow him. We make our way through the castle to his office. When we arrive, he takes a pinch of Floo powder from the ornate silver bowl on his desk and holds it out to me. "Whenever you're ready, Lucas."

I take a deep breath, grab the powder, and toss it into the fireplace. The flames roar to life in a bright green blaze. "Tonks residence!" I call out clearly before stepping into the fire. The familiar spinning sensation takes over, and in a blink, I'm stumbling out into a cozy, warmly lit living room that smells faintly of lavender and fresh-baked bread.

Before I can even get my bearings, I hear an excited squeal. I look up just in time to see Tonks barreling toward me. She collides with me in a hug that nearly knocks the wind out of me, her bright pink hair bobbing with every laugh.

"Lucas! You're here!" She exclaims, hugging me tightly. "We've been waiting for you! You've got to see your room - it's all set up! And we have so much planned for this summer. We're brother and sister now, isn't that great?"

I can't help but smile at her enthusiasm. "I'm a proper Black now," She mentally adds with a slightly perverse giggle. "Brothers and sisters forever!"

I sigh, both out loud and in my head. "This is going to be a long summer," I mutter, though I can't help but smile a little. Tonks will be Tonks, in a way that's a confort.

Ted and Andromeda Tonks are standing off to the side, watching our exchange with warm smiles. Dumbledore steps out of the Floo behind me, brushing some soot off his robes. He greets the Tonkses with a nod and a smile. "Andromeda, Ted, thank you for opening your home to Lucas. I trust he'll be well cared for here."

"Absolutely, Albus," Andromeda replies, her voice kind and welcoming. "We're happy to have him. He's already part of the family as far as we're concerned."

Ted steps forward with a grin and extends his hand to me. "Welcome to your new home, you can call me Ted, Lucas. We're thrilled to have you here. If there's anything you need, don't hesitate to ask."

I shake his hand, feeling a bit overwhelmed by their kindness. "Thank you, Mr. Tonks… I mean, Ted. I appreciate it."

Ted chuckles. "No need for formalities. We're family now, remember?"

Andromeda nods, her smile warm and genuine. "Nymphadora, why don't you show Lucas around? Get him settled in. Lunch will be ready soon."

Tonks grabs my hand, practically bouncing with excitement. "Come on, Lucas! You've got to see your room. We'll have so much fun this summer!"

As she pulls me toward the stairs, Andromeda calls out teasingly, "Don't smother the poor boy, Nymphadora! It's his first day, after all."

Tonks rolls her eyes but laughs. "Mum! It's not like I'm going to - okay, fine, maybe a little," She admits, her smile wide. She tugs me up the stairs, still holding my hand. "Sorry about that. She's just like that."

"It's fine," I say with a chuckle. "I'm just surprised nothing blew up when she used your name."

Tonks blushes, her cheeks turning pink to match her hair. "I'm just excited, don't you dare use it, or I'll hex you, I can do that now, no trace!"

I laugh, raising my hands in a placating gesture. "Alright, alright. I promise I'll be good."

We reach the top of the stairs, and she leads me to her room, pushing open the door with a flourish.

Her room is as vibrant as she is. The walls are painted a deep shade of purple, and the bed is piled high with colorful blankets and mismatched pillows. Posters of Quidditch teams and famous witches and wizards cover the walls, and there's a small desk cluttered with books, parchment, and a few potion ingredients.

"This is my room," Tonks says proudly, waving her hand around. "I know it's a bit of a mess, but it's my mess."

I nod, smiling at the organized chaos. "It's great. Really... It feels like you."

She grins and points to a door on the other side of the room. "And that's your room. Mum thought you might like a bit of privacy, so you've got your own space." She pouted slightly, "Even after I told her you could just stay in my room too…"

Seems I owe Mrs Tonks one… I think, sideyeing Tonks with exasperation. Sharing a room is taking things a bit too far.

I step through the door into my room, finding it smaller but comfortable. The walls are a soothing blue, and there's a desk and chair by the window, which offers a view of the garden outside. A small bed is tucked against the wall, covered in a neatly folded quilt. Tonks runs a hand over the wall, and it shimmers, showing that behind the surface the entire wall of the room is actually just bookcase after bookcase.

"It's perfect," I say, genuinely touched by the thought they've put into making me feel at home. So many bookcases, I can keep like half my books in here!

Tonks beams at me. "I'm glad you like it! We're going to have so much fun this summer. I've got a list of things we can do, and Mum's already planning a few trips. She wants to take us to Diagon Alley, and maybe even a day in Hogsmeade if we can manage it."

I nod along, feeling the excitement build. It's a strange feeling, being welcomed like this, but it's nice. I'm not used to people going out of their way for me in this fashion, like… A family.

"And I've been thinking," Tonks continues, "I could help you with some of your magic practice still, yeah? You know, since I'm a bit older and all, no trace. Might as well put my licence to hex everyone and everything, to good use!"

I grin at her enthusiasm. "I'd like that. I could use all the help I can get." And I have a feeling you'll hex me whether its for training or not anyway.

She laughs and punches me lightly on the shoulder. "Don't be so modest, Lucas. You're doing great already. Mum and Dad have been raving about you nonstop since you saved me. I'm pretty sure they're more excited than I am!"

I chuckle, shaking my head. "Your parents are pretty great, I have to admit, they raised you after all."

"Yeah," Tonks agrees, her voice softening a bit. "They're the best." She glances around, then back at me. "So, what do you think? Want to go check out the rest of the house?"

"Sure," I say, following her back out into the hallway.

As we make our way downstairs, Tonks chatters on about all the things she wants to show me, her excitement infectious. We pass by the kitchen, where Andromeda is bustling around, preparing lunch with an ease that suggests she's used to doing things herself. She turns as we enter, wiping her hands on a towel and smiling warmly.

"There you two are! I was starting to wonder if Nymphadora had decided to keep you up there all day," She teases, her eyes twinkling with good humor.

Tonks sticks her tongue out at her mother, but there's a smile on her face. "Mum, I'm not that bad. Besides, Lucas has to see his new home, doesn't he?"

Andromeda laughs, a soft, melodious sound. "Of course, dear. I'm just teasing. Lucas, I hope you're ready for a bit of chaos. Life with a metamorphmagus can be quite the adventure."

I chuckle, glancing at Tonks, whose hair is now shifting from pink to a vibrant shade of orange. "I think I'm up for it," I say. "I've handled worse."

"Oh, I'm sure you have," Ted chimes in as he walks into the kitchen, a welcoming smile on his face. "Andromeda's cooking can be a bit of an adventure, too, but don't worry - she's promised not to make anything too exotic today."

Andromeda swats playfully at Ted's arm. "You hush now. My cooking is perfectly fine."

Ted winks at me. "I'm just kidding. Andi is a fantastic cook, and I'm sure you'll love what she's got planned for lunch. She's been going on about it all morning."

I smile, feeling a warmth spread through me. "I'm sure it'll be great. Thank you for having me here."

"You're very welcome, Lucas," Andromeda says sincerely. "Now, why don't you two go sit in the living room? Lunch will be ready in just a bit, and then we can all sit down and get to know each other a little better."

Tonks takes my hand again, leading me toward the cozy living room where I first arrived. The space is filled with plush sofas and armchairs, all in warm, inviting colors. A large fireplace takes up one wall, its mantel decorated with family photos, some moving and waving, while others are still in the muggle style.

"Isn't this place great?" Tonks says, plopping down onto a sofa and patting the seat next to her. "Mum's got a bit of a knack for making things homey, she says it's to make it all as anti-Black as possible."

I sit down beside her, nodding. "Yeah, it's really nice. It feels… Welcoming."

Tonks grins, her hair shifting again, this time to a bright turquoise. "That's exactly what Mum wanted. She's big on hospitality, you know? Always makes sure everyone feels at home. And Dad, well, he's just the same."

I glance around the room, taking in the details. There's a large bookshelf filled with an eclectic mix of magical and muggle literature, and a beautiful antique clock sits on a side table, its hands moving in a way that doesn't seem to correspond to any time I know. Like moving constantly and I have no idea what any of the symbols represents.

"What's with the clock?" I ask, nodding toward it.

Tonks follows my gaze and laughs. "Oh, that? It's a family heirloom. Supposedly, it tells the time in a way that only makes sense if you've had a few too many to drink. We mostly keep it around because it's a bit of a conversation starter."

I chuckle. "I can see that. This place is full of interesting stuff." Wizards… What's even the point of a clock that only tells time to drunk people?

"Yeah, Mum's collected things from all over," Tonks says proudly. "Not alot of it comes from her side of the family, most of it's just things she and Dad have picked up over the years. There's always something new to discover they say."

Just then, Andromeda calls from the kitchen, "Lunch is ready! Come on in, you two."

Tonks jumps up, pulling me along with her. We head into the dining room, where a spread of food has been laid out on the table. There's a variety of dishes, from roast chicken and vegetables to a few more adventurous options that look like they might have come straight out of a magical cookbook.

"Wow, this looks amazing," I say, my stomach rumbling in anticipation.

"Thank you, Lucas," Andromeda says, beaming. "I do enjoy cooking. It's one of the few muggle skills I've kept up with over the years."

I had noticed she didn't use her wand much, which is interesting, considering where she's from.

We all sit down, and as we begin to eat, the conversation flows easily. Ted asks me about Hogwarts and what I've been up to this summer. I mention some of the training I've been doing with Professor Flamel and the Room of Requirement, but I leave out the more secretive details.

It's pleasant, just… Warmth and joy and happiness.

… I like it here.

----------------------------------------

Few days later, 20th of July.

I step into the living room, still groggy from sleep, and freeze when I see the decorations: streamers hanging from the ceiling, balloons bobbing along the walls, and a large banner that reads - Happy Birthday, Lucas! - in bright, glittering letters. For a moment, I'm completely bewildered. My birthday was a long time ago.

"Surprise!" A chorus of voices shout, pulling me from my thoughts. I blink, taking in the scene: Ted, Andromeda, Tonks, Profess- Penny, I suppose in this casual setting. As well as my friends - Su, Padma, Hannah, and Susan, all of them are grinning at me. I can't help but smile, a warm feeling spreading through my chest.

"What's going on?" I ask, still trying to process it all.

Tonks bounces over to me, her hair a bright shade of pink as is the norm. "It's a belated birthday party!" She announces with a laugh. "We wanted to surprise you, and well, it worked!"

Ted leans in, grinning mischievously. "Look at you, Lucas. Surrounded by all these lovely ladies!"

Neville's in Greece, I suppose, it does seem I keep gathering them doesn't it? I think, Cassiopeia on my mind as well.

I feel my cheeks warm slightly at everyone's cheer. "Thanks, everyone," I say, still a little stunned. "I really didn't expect this."

"Well, that was rather the point," Andromeda says, smiling warmly. "And we're glad to have you here with us, Lucas. We wanted to make sure you felt welcome."

I nod, touched by the gesture. "I do. I really do."

Tonks throws an arm around my shoulders, her grin wide. "Come on, birthday boy. Let's eat some cake!"

We all gather around the dining table, where a massive chocolate cake with layers of frosting and fruit sits in the center. Ted slices it up, and we pass around plates, everyone grabbing a piece.

"Wow, this is delicious," Padma says after taking a bite. "Did you make this, Mrs. Tonks?"

Andromeda waves her hand modestly. "Please, call me Andromeda, or Andi. And yes, I did. I'm glad you like it."

"It's amazing," Susan adds, licking some frosting off her fork. "I might need to get the recipe from you."

Andromeda chuckles. "I'd be happy to share it with you, miss Bones."

The room fills with chatter and laughter as we dig into the cake. It's nice to see everyone so relaxed and happy, just enjoying the moment. We start talking about school - how we're all preparing for the next year, what classes we're looking forward to, and the professors we're excited to learn from.

"I'm looking forward to Transfiguration," Hannah says, her eyes bright with enthusiasm. "Professor Flamel's supposed to be incredible."

"He is," I confirm, nodding. "He's tough, but he really knows his stuff. You'll learn a lot from him."

"Yeah, if you can survive his lessons," Tonks teases, nudging me playfully. Of those here, only she knew what he was really like, having access to my mind.

Ted chuckles, shaking his head. "Sounds like quite the challenge. I remember my own days at Hogwarts, though I don't think we had anyone quite like Professor Flamel."

Padma turns to Andromeda, curiosity in her eyes. "What about you, Andromeda? Did you enjoy your time at Hogwarts?"

Andromeda smiles, a faraway look in her eyes. "I did, for the most part. Though things were… Different back then, with all the expectations on me and my sisters. But Hogwarts was always a special place."

Su nods, her expression thoughtful. "My Mom talks about her school days with such fondness. I think it's a magical experience for everyone, in one way or another."

We talk about our families, sharing stories and anecdotes. Susan mentions her aunt, Amelia Bones, who's been busier than ever at the Ministry since the whole Hogwarts fiasco. Hannah talks about her uncle, who's a bit of a black sheep in the family but always makes her laugh.

"You should meet him, Lucas," She says with a grin. "He'd get a kick out of you."

"I'd like that," I reply, smiling back. Black sheep usually means connections to a… Different sort. Could be useful.

We continue chatting, everyone sharing stories and laughing. Tonks is constantly by my side, her energy infectious as she jumps into every conversation.

Eventually, we move away from the adults, finding a quieter corner of the room to sit and talk amongst ourselves. Su, Padma, Hannah, and Susan gather around, and the conversation naturally shifts to more current topics.

"So, how's Auror training going, Tonks?" Hannah asks eagerly. Her eyes are bright with curiosity, and I can tell she's been waiting for a chance to ask.

Tonks groans dramatically, throwing her head back. "Ugh, don't even get me started," She complains, though there's a playful glint in her eyes. "It's all theory and physical training right now. You'd think we'd be learning to blast the bad guys or something, but nope. Just running laps until I'm ready to collapse and learning every boring law in the book."

Susan laughs. "Well, you have to know the rules if you're going to enforce them, right?"

"Yeah, but it's so dull," Tonks says, scrunching up her nose. "I didn't sign up to be an Auror just to study dusty old laws and get my cute butt kicked in the training yard."

"Cute, huh?" I tease, grinning at her. "I'm not sure that's what Mad-Eye Moody is looking for in a trainee."

Tonks nudges me with her elbow, her grin widening. "Shows what you know, Lucas. Mad-Eye says my cuteness is part of my undercover charm. Can't go blowing my cover by looking too serious, can I?"

"Okay I know you gotta be lying about that one!" I mentally tell her, receiving nothing but smugness back.

My friends all laugh at that anyway, through Susan they'd already heard all about Moody, Padma shakes her head, a smile on her face. "You sound like you're having a lot of fun, despite all the complaining."

Tonks shrugs, her eyes twinkling. "I mean, it's tough, but it's also exciting, you know? Knowing that all of this training is going to pay off, that I'll be able to help people and make a difference… It's worth it."

Susan nods thoughtfully. "That does sound amazing. I bet you'll be a great Auror, Tonks."

"Of course, I will," Tonks says confidently, then winks. "Just as soon as I figure out how to run laps without tripping over my own feet."

Hannah giggles. "I'm sure you'll get the hang of it. You've always been good at bouncing back up."

Tonks grins and ruffles my hair, messing it up even more than it already was. "See, Lucas? Told you I'm a natural."

I roll my eyes, but I'm smiling. It's hard not to enjoy myself when Tonks is around, even if she does have a habit of acting like a big sister who loves to tease. And then something other then a big sister… But it's good to see she's able to connect with my friends without the… Issues we all had last year. At least it seems they don't hold quite the same grudge anymore.

Our conversation naturally shifts to the topic that's been on everyone's minds lately - Sirius Black's escape from Azkaban. Hannah brings it up first, her voice low.

"Have you guys heard about Sirius Black escaping?" She asks, her brow furrowed in concern. "It's so scary. Everyone's talking about it."

Susan nods seriously, "Yeah, and with the whole Hogwarts fiasco last year and now this, Rufus Scrimgeour got fired as Head Auror. It's chaos at the Ministry right now."

I feel a flicker of surprise at that. "Really? They fired Scrimgeour? I didn't know that."

"Yeah," Susan says, leaning in closer. "They're saying it's because of how he handled everything - poorly, apparently. So many aurors dead… So now they're scrambling to put someone else in charge." But Bones and Dumbledore got off…? Did Scrimgeour fall on the sword?

I frown, thinking it over. "Do you think they'll send Dementors after Black?" I really hope not…

Padma snorts. "No one's that stupid, Lucas. The last thing anyone wants is Dementors causing more problems. The Ministry's more careful then that."

"They won't put them around the school or anything?" I ask trying to sound casual.

Susan snorts, "My aunt would challenge whoever did something that stupid to a duel or something, if Dumbledore didn't get them first. There's just no way."

I try to hide my surprise and relief at that. No Dementors is definitely a good thing. But still, I can't help but feel a little guilty. Keeping Pettigrew hidden, dealing with him on my own - it was necessary, I know that. But the idea that Black is out there now, probably hunting for Pettigrew… It's unsettling.

Su speaks up, breaking through my thoughts. "I'm glad there won't be Dementors. I heard they make everything feel cold and awful, like you'll never be happy again."

"Yeah, that's pretty much what they do," Tonks says, her tone more serious now. "They're not something you want around, especially not at a school."

I nod, trying to push away the guilt gnawing at me. I did what I had to do. Turning Pettigrew over to the Ministry was too risky. Magic has a way of twisting things, making them more dramatic than they need to be. If Pettigrew escaped, who knows what kind of mess we'd be in?

The conversation drifts on, but I stay quiet, my thoughts spinning. I glance at Tonks, who's still sitting close to me, her presence comforting. She seems to sense my mood because she nudges me gently with her shoulder.

"You okay?" She asks softly, her voice filled with concern.

I force a smile, nodding. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just thinking."

She gives me a knowing look but doesn't press further. I'm grateful for that. The last thing I want to do is drag everyone down with my worries.

As the party continues, I make an effort to focus on the present, on my friends and the laughter around me. It's not always easy, but it's worth it. For now, at least, I'm exactly where I need to be.

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