Open Wounds (Sirius Black)

Christmas Adventures

The following morning dawned with a palpable tension that hung in the air like an unspoken spell. As I awoke, the memory of the cryptic symbols on the castle's entrance doors continued to haunt my thoughts along with Kas missing. The sun's gentle rays filtered through the curtains, casting a warm, hopeful light on the room, but the unease of the previous day lingered, refusing to fade with the morning. I couldn't help but wonder what new mysteries awaited us as I prepared to face the challenges of a new day at the enchanted school, and whether the symbols would reveal their secrets in due time.

In the Great Hall, the atmosphere mirrored my unease, as whispers and hushed conversations echoed among the students. Professors moved about, their faces equally touched by concern, though none openly acknowledged the strange markings on the castle doors. As I took my seat at the Gryffindor table, the usual chatter and laughter were muted, replaced by a collective sense of curiosity and apprehension. My gaze drifted toward the head table, where the Hogwarts staff exchanged grave looks, their huddled discussions hidden behind the facade of breakfast plates and goblets. It was clear that whatever had occurred was a matter of great significance, and the weight of the unknown hung heavily over us all.

Amidst the sombre undercurrent that pervaded Hogwarts, the remainder of the approaching Christmas break brought a glimmer of hope to our hearts. With each passing day, the castle transformed into a festive wonderland, adorned with twinkling lights, wreaths, and enchanted snowflakes that danced through the hallways. The promise of spending time with family and friends over the holiday season added a touch of warmth to the otherwise mysterious and disconcerting atmosphere. Even as we faced the enigma of the symbols, the anticipation of the impending break gave us a reason to look forward to the days ahead.

"Mother said Father was coming to get us," James told me as I took a seat across the table from him.

"Tomorrow?" I frowned, Christmas has crept up on me.

"Holiday break starts tomorrow," Sirius informed.

"I forgot," I took a pumpkin pasty and placed it on my plate.

"Are you coming with us?" I asked Sirius, who shook his head.

"No, I am going home," Sirius declared, his voice firm and unwavering. He had been contemplating the idea of spending the Christmas break at Hogwarts, away from his family, and his decision was met with both determination and a hint of defiance.

"You are more than welcome to come over when you want," James offered a safe house.

Sirius nodded gratefully, taking a bite of his waffles.

"I am staying here," Peter mentioned, "Why?" I asked. I didn't care why the rat-like boy was staying at Hogwarts for Christmas.

"my other has gone to Spain," He spoke with a mouth full of food.

After a subdued breakfast, everyone at Hogwarts attended their last class before the much-anticipated Christmas break. The hallways buzzed with a mixture of excitement for the impending holiday festivities and the lingering curiosity about the enigmatic symbols that had marked the castle entrance. The classrooms were adorned with festive decorations, a testament to the approaching holiday spirit. As we sat in our final lessons, the anticipation of the upcoming break was palpable, promising moments of respite and joy amidst the mysteries that had captured our imaginations.

In Defense Against the Dark Arts class, Professor Fraser, a stern but fair witch, announced that for their final lesson before Christmas break, students would be practising duelling. Excitement rippled through the classroom as everyone paired up, and wands at the ready. Once again, Sirius and I found ourselves standing across from each other, our eyes locking in a mixture of determination and playful rivalry. Professor Fraser's voice rang out, "Prepare yourselves, and remember the principles of defence we've learned this semester." As we raised our wands, the anticipation of facing off against Sirius, both a friend and a worthy adversary, added an extra layer of excitement to the approaching holiday break.