UNCONDITIONALLY | G. WEASLEY

01. ILVERMORNY

ILVERMORNY SCHOOL OF WITCHCRAFT AND WIZARDRY
MASSACHUSETTS
MAY 1993

FOUR YEARS HAD PASSED, and Mirabella, now going by Ella Lestrange, received a momentous letter from her Aunt Narcissa Malfoy, granting her the long-awaited opportunity to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The news reached her guardian, Kathleen Light, well in advance, marking the closing chapters of Ella's fourth year at Ilvermorny.

Faced with a pivotal decision, she grappled with the choice between staying at Ilvermorny, embracing her newfound life, or venturing to Hogwarts to reunite with her twin brother, Corvus. The weight of this decision loomed large, a realization that dawned on her amidst the mundane activities of her everyday life.

Lelani Everglade, Margarita Hemlock, and Ella engaged in a heartfelt conversation, revealing Ella's internal struggle and fear of judgment, fueled by the notorious reputation of her mother, Bellatrix Lestrange.

Lelani, with her characteristic warmth, took a sip of her hot chocolate, leaving a foamy mustache that mirrored the levity she tried to inject into the conversation. "Ella, darling, you've been tossing this decision around like a Quaffle in a game. Whatever you choose, we're here for you."

Margarita, arms crossed in a show of serious solidarity, chimed in, "Rita Skeeter's speculations are as outdated as her hairstyle. Ignore the noise. Hogwarts or Ilvermorny, you're still the incredible Ella we know."

Ella sighed, her vulnerability surfacing. "It's not just about the schools; it's about my past, my family. Bellatrix Lestrange's daughter attending Hogwarts? It's like stepping into a cauldron of judgment."

Lelani leaned forward, her eyes reflecting understanding. "Sweetie, fear of judgment shouldn't dictate your choices. You've faced tougher challenges. Besides, Rita Skeeter can spin her webs, but we know the real you."

Margarita added with a nod, "And if anyone dares to cross you, they'll have to deal with me. I've been working on a new hex that could give her a 'hairstyle update.'"

A fleeting smile crossed Ella's face, appreciating the attempts to lighten the mood. "It's not just about judgment; it's about leaving this life, our adventures, and going to a place where my family history precedes me."

Lelani's eyes softened, her understanding reaching deeper. "Ella, Hogwarts or Ilvermorny, you're still you. And your family history doesn't define you. We've got your back, no matter what."

As night fell, the three friends prepared to attend a concert at Symphony Plaza below the clouds of Ilvermorny. Forbidden to the youngest students, Ella reminisced about her past longing to join such events. Now, with her best friends by her side and the prospect of seeing her boyfriend, the excitement filled the air.

The Quidditch match unfolded, and Ella watched her boyfriend, Kody Kowalski, in action. The intensity of the game reached a climax when Kody's wrist suffered an injury, leading to a bittersweet victory for their team. Amidst the celebration, Ella shared a tender moment with Kody, only to be interrupted by Professor Taurus.

"Miss Lestrange, you are being summoned to the Headmistresses's office," he said to Ella. "You have a visitor from Hogwarts who like to meet you."

Summoned to the Headmistress's office, Ella's plans were momentarily thwarted. Professor Taurus, seemingly aware of her deception, escorted her to meet a special visitor. However, the revelation of Erika's ailment provided Ella with an excuse, a fact that Professor Taurus, a Legilimens, didn't fully believe.

In the presence of Professor Silver and a surprise guest, Professor Albus Dumbledore, Ella's skepticism clashed with the prospect of a life-altering spell. The revelation that she could walk again and even become an Animagus left her speechless, a blend of disbelief and newfound hope etched on her face.

The tale unfolded with Professor Silver's attempt at humor, adding a touch of lightness to the moment. As Ella grappled with the overwhelming news, the promise of a transformative spell hung in the air, promising a future beyond her wheelchair-bound existence.

In the Ilvermorny Common Room, Ella Lestrange was welcomed by a cheerful "Happy Valentine's Day, Love" banner that adorned the surroundings. Moments later, Kody emerged from the boy's dormitory, bearing roses and chocolates. A sweet gesture that culminated in a kiss and warm wishes for Valentine's Day, marking an additional celebration – their first anniversary.

Lelani Everglade couldn't help but express her admiration, "Awe, you guys look adorable."

Ella grinned, expressing her gratitude, then teasingly added, "Oh, Marge, don't be such a hater."

Margarita, however, appeared less enchanted as she slumped onto the couch. Her frustration spilled out about her cousin's preoccupation with his band, leaving her longing for more attention. Ella attempted to console her, reminding Margarita to communicate with Archer.

As Kody and Ella contemplated following Margarita, a threat from Margarita herself halted them: "I'll cripple you, Kowalski."

"Hey!" Ella retorted, crossing her arms defensively.

Kody, with a groan, joined Margarita on the couch. The conversation shifted to Archer, prompting Kody to advise Margarita to make the first move, breaking gender norms. Ella chimed in, recounting how she couldn't ask Kody out due to shyness, which earned her a playful jab from Kody.

The discussion took a turn when Margarita expressed doubts about Archer's feelings. Ella reassured her, highlighting the unique connection Margarita shared with Archer beyond his popularity. Their banter was interrupted by a 3rd-year student announcing Archer's presence in the Dinner Hall.

As Margarita rushed out, Ella and Kody followed, discovering a trail of lilac petals leading to a grand gesture orchestrated by Archer Fiddlewood. Margarita, in awe, joined Archer in a dance as his bandmates played a No-Maj song, capturing the attention of the entire Dinner Hall.

Ella marveled at the scene, and even Professor Salem found solace in the romantic spectacle. The grand confession concluded with Margarita's delighted nod, signaling her acceptance. The Dinner Hall erupted in applause, celebrating the newfound romance.

Amidst the joy, Kody wrapped his arms around Ella, kissing her cheek. "Don't you love Valentine's Day?"

Ella beamed, acknowledging the magic of the day. "It's a magical day indeed."

The school year came to an end and Mirabella passed all of her exams with flying colors. Mirabella returned to her home in Salem where she had met, again, Albus Dumbledore with a surprise campaign, her boyfriend's grandmother, Queenie Goldstein.

"It is so finally nice to meet my grandson's girlfriend," Queenie Goldstein said with a huge smile. "You are really beautiful in person. You look so much like your father."

"I get that a lot," she said as she pushed her wheelchair to the living room. "I believe we are starting the process now."

Albus Dumbledore nodded and said, "You are correct, Miss Lestrange."

to be continued...