In the Shadow of the Summer

Summer Solstice

You considered yourself in the mirror after changing into your new outfit. Mr Hill had suggested it, and you'd been rather on the fence at first, but now you had it on, it looked much better than you'd thought it would. You looked unusually festive in a mustard yellow blouse and purple waistcoat, with matching purple breeches embroidered with little yellow stars. Still adamant about offering you a 'troll-slaying discount', he'd also managed to convince you to buy some shoes to match. It was much more colourful than anything you'd worn before, but you rather liked it. At the very least, it would divert some of the attention away from how utterly exhausted you still looked. You hadn't let Sebastian see your outfit yet, warning him that it was dangerously over-the-top and perhaps even a little bit of an eyesore, but he assured you that you would suit whatever it is, because you 'suit everything'. You weren't entirely sure what he meant, but you didn't overthink it. Unfortunately, hiding your new outfit from him encouraged him to do the same, and so you agreed to surprise one another at the celebration.

There was a tap on your window that made you jump, but you were relieved to find that it was just Heidi returning with some letters. You recognised Poppy's handwriting, on one envelope, and another was sealed with wax that had been stamped with a large 'W', which must have been from Garreth. The third envelope had no indication as to who had sent it. You stroked Heidi's feathers and offered her a treat before taking a seat at your desk. You decided to open Poppy's letter first.

I'm glad to hear that you settled in at The Three Broomsticks. I can't imagine how exciting it's going to be for the celebration! I tried to convince Gran that we should attend, but she heard rumours of an Occamy sighting not far from our village, so she is going to be a little bit occupied for a while, I suspect. You'll have to tell me all about it afterwards!

I'm sorry to hear that things are awkward between you and Sebastian. I don't know what happened between you, but I know you were good friends. Hopefully, everything will sort itself out.

As for my plans, I finally mustered up the courage to talk to some of the other children in my village, and I actually got invited to the community bonfire! I'm still terribly nervous, but I'm happy that it's a step in the right direction. I'll let you know how it goes.

Happy Summer Solstice!

Poppy x

You smiled as you put the letter aside, a reminder to write back after the celebration, before opening Garreth's letter.

I must admit, I was surprised to hear from you so soon, but I'm always pleased to know when I can be of service to a friend.

Sorry about your living situation, it sounds rather pants. Lucky for you, I know just the remedy!

The charm you were thinking of is 'Muffliato', which is a great spell for when you don't want people to hear what you're saying. Instead of hearing you, all they'll get is a buzzing sound. But it sounds like the charm you need is 'Quietus'. It'll make whatever you want a lot quieter, the opposite of the Amplifying charm, 'Sonorus'.

Hope you enjoy your Summer Solstice!

Garreth

P.S. Have you heard from Natty yet?

Just as you reached for the third envelope, there was a knock at the door.
"It's almost time," called Sebastian.
"Coming," you replied enthusiastically. You decided you could wait until after the party to open that one. "Close your eyes!"
"Alright, they're closed." You giggled and walked across the room to the door, closing your own eyes once you grabbed the handle. You felt slightly dizzy trying to navigate the top floor landing without being able to see, but you felt around until you were standing in front of Sebastian.
"Can I look yet?" he asked.
"On the count of three, okay?"
"Okay, three..."
"Two..."
"One..."
"Open!"