The Dark Mark | D.M

The End of a School Year

XVI

Two weeks went by rather quickly than many would have wanted. Christmas break was almost like a normal day to a handful of students—like Astrid. Upon arriving from Kingscross station, she spent a not-so-eventful dinner with her Father and Mother, then she received and opened a handful of presents from the couple and some from their relatives and friends. The day after she had a wonderful afternoon with the Malfoy's, minus the head of the family.

"It is lovely to finally see you again, Astrid." Narcissa Malfoy engulfed the fifteen-year-old in a tight and warm embrace.

"It is nice to see you too, Madame Malfoy," Astrid spoke against the older Malfoy's hair.

    "How are you?" Narcissa spoke.

    "Wonderful." Astrid breathed out.

    Narcissa broke the hug before stroking Astrid's hands in hers—a cold object under Narcissa's touch caused her to peer down. A familiar piece of jewelry caught her eyes. "You gave it to her," she whispered, glancing at her son standing beside her.

    Draco, who is busy zoning out faced his mother—Astrid's left hand slightly raised and his ring (now Astrid's) on display. "Yes, on her birthday."

    A gentle grin laced Narcissa's lips before facing the girl before her, "It was custom made," She informed, fondling the ring, "I gave it to Draco when he was twelve. I hope you like it."

    Astrid mirrored the older Malfoy before saying, "I love it."

The whole afternoon was delightfully enjoyed by the bunch, the four individuals exchanged gifts and pleasantries—leaving and forgetting about stressful things while in the moment.

    "Ah, right. Here," Narcissa places her teacup on the table before ushering one of the Malfoy's house elves.

The elf was carrying a brown-covered medium-sized box, with a silk ribbon. Narcissa caressed the beautifully wrapped box upon receiving it from the elf before turning and pushing the box toward Astrid. "Happy Birthday," She uttered with a smile. Perplexed, the brunette reached out for the box and placed it on her lap. "I wanted to deliver my gift to you in person." She informed.

"Oh, thank you," Astrid breathed out as she unraveled the silk ribbon and unwrapped the said gift. A stunning, few sets of high-quality made pieces of clothing—neatly folded came into view. "They are wonderful."

   
    In that short break, the day with Narcissa and Draco was the only eventful thing that occurred.

    Now, it had been months since that day—in these past days and weeks, the rest of the friendly competitions for sixth years and below transpired. Duel and Quidditch came to pass, and the second task of the Champions also took place. And today the third and final is about to happen.

    Students of all ages gathered to witness the final task—a circular bleacher was built and a huge, foggy, and eerie maze was right in front of it. Each house was cheering, though not everyone is here to scrutinize but that does not stop the other students to come.

    Beauxbatons and Durmstrang were all present and are overly excited to see their champions. The Weasley twins, yet again were going around the bleachers and shouting 'bets', urging their classmates and newfound friends from the other schools to participate in their little game.

    "This is terrifyingly exciting." Amelie gushed, eyes open wide with a glint of madness, cheeks slightly flushed due to the cool breeze surrounding them.