Phoebe Ellory, a talented pureblood witch, grapples with her burgeoning powers and the internal conflict between light and dark. As she navigates her studies, Phoebe's life takes a turn when she discovers her late mother's unfinished research on the...
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Phoebe
The following morning McGonagall sent out an announcement to those participating in the side quests to meet for a quick meeting. I was still in the dorm sitting near the balcony whilst I read over a note that my dad had sent saying he needed me home next weekend. I put the note away and watched as his owl flew off into the foggy distance. I couldn't worry about that now, I had a side quest to focus on. I couldn't afford a distraction if I was to get past a dragon.
I headed over to Grand Hall where McGonagall expected us. Anthony Goldstein and I crossed paths down the spiraling stairs. He was grinning from ear to ear. He apologised about not meeting up for yesterday's quest, but that he'd make it up with this one. And to be honest I had forgotten we had made plans to work on it together. I did just fine on my own, but in spite of that, I knew we needed each other for the last task.
We reached Grand Hall and for now it was empty with the exception of those that showed up. There were still a couple minutes until breakfast hour and McGonagall intended to make the meeting quick.
"I have a few important points in order that I must discuss before the second side quest begins," started McGonagall, "First — I must warn that the tasks presented to you will be vigorous, so beware and take precaution. Secondly, this is a two person quest. Choose your partner wisely, as this is the person you'll finish with."
I noticed Pansy Parkinson gave Malfoy the eyes. She was so certain to end up with him. But I had a feeling we all wouldn't get what we wanted for this quest. So when Goldstein nudged my shoulder and sent me a grin, I returned an uneasy smile.
"Each task is a representation of Hogwarts' four houses. Keep the house mottos in mind; Gryffindor, 'daring, nerve, and chivalry.' Slytherin, 'to achieve their ends.' Ravenclaw, 'wit beyond measure is a man's greatest treasure.' And Hufflepuff, 'just, loyal, and patience.'" continued McGonagall, "Before we head over to the first task, sit down and have breakfast. It'll be a long day and you'll need the energy."
She motioned toward a benched table that was already prepared. We quietly moved and for the first time all four houses sat at the same table. It was awkward to say the least. Apart from it being early, I wasn't in the mood to listen to anyone talk and much to my relief no one spoke a word. It was the quietest breakfast I've had at Hogwarts so far. This was like eating at the same table with my father. The thought itself made me lose my appetite.
I fiddled with a fork and played with my food absentmindedly. The only thing I could think of or imagine was my father at the end of the table. For years I've avoided having to think of him in this way. Running away from summer memories of loneliness and being misunderstood by him, Hogwarts was my safe place. I wasn't supposed to feel this way. Not here at least.
"Are you gonna eat that?" Ron Weasley eyed my English breakfast.
"You can have it," I told him and moved it towards him but Granger nudged his arm and gave him a demanding look.
