The Raven's Call

The Weekend

Friday, September 3rd 1993

"Does it hurt terribly, Draco?" I hear Pansy ask from across the room. We're sat in the Great Hall, myself and Alex sitting opposite the Weasley twins, beside Harry Ron and Hermione, all studying for our classes we'd had yesterday. Myself and Hermione more than anyone else, it seemed. "It comes and it goes." Draco responds. "Still, I consider myself lucky. Madam Pomfrey said another minute or two and I could've lost my arm. I couldn't possibly do any homework for weeks." He boasts, lying through his teeth. "Get over yourself, Draco. It was only a scratch." I hear Asteria say, shutting him down. I chuckle softly to myself, seeing her stand up and walk off. George watches her leave too. "Where do you think she's going?" He asks, out loud. "I dunno George, I'm not a mind reader." I retort, not looking up from my books, though I hear Fred laugh. 

"He's been sighted, he's been sighted!" Seamus squeals as he comes running into the Great Hall, newspaper in hand. "Who?" Ron asks, a bit shaken by the sudden outburst. "Sirius Black!" Seamus exclaims. Hermione reads through quickly. "Dufftown? That's not far from here.." She speaks softly. "You don't think he'd come to Hogwarts, do you?" Neville asks, his voice shaking. "With Dementors at every entrance?" Alex asks, a brow raised. "Dementors? He's already slipped past them once, who's to say he won't do it again?" Seamus retorts. "That's right.. Black could be anywhere. It's like trying to catch smoke. Like trying to catch smoke with your bare hands.." I say ominously. I had heard some passing rumours on the train ride here.

I hear mine and Alex's journals vibrate. I flip mine open to reveal a message from Asteria. 'If anyone needs me, I'll be in the Room of Requirement, studying in peace.' I sigh, closing the book. "She's in the room of requirement." I tell George. "Go on, your maiden awaits." I smirk. He blushes deeply before collecting his books, practically sprinting towards the door. I shake my head as Fred and Alex laugh softly before I get back to my books.

***

Saturday, September 4th 1993

I sit cross-legged on a plush, midnight-blue carpet in the Ravenclaw common room, surrounded by towering bookshelves filled with ancient tomes and cozy reading nooks. The room is softly lit by the gentle glow of the fireplace, and the occasional hoot from a few owls adds to the soothing ambiance. My parchment is covered in scribbles and diagrams, and my quill hovers over a particularly vexing equation. My brow furrows in concentration, and I'm about to let out a frustrated sigh when Luna Lovegood floats into view. She's wearing her usual dreamy expression, her silvery-blond hair flooding over her shoulders like a cascade of moonlight.

Luna settles down gracefully beside me, her presence like a breath of fresh air. "Hello, Atticus," she greets me with a serene smile. "Hey, Luna," I reply, trying to hide the surprise in my voice. I hadn't expected Luna to join me, but I certainly am NOT complaining. "What brings you here?" I ask as Luna gazes into the fire, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "I saw you were struggling with your  homework, so I thought I might be able to help." I blink in amazement. Luna Lovegood, the girl known for her peculiar beliefs and offbeat charm, offering to help me? It's a surreal moment. "You know anything about Ancient Runes?" She nods serenely. "Yes, I find them fascinating. It's like deciphering the hidden language of the Wizarding World." I can't help but smile at Luna's unique perspective. "Well, if you're willing to help, I'd be grateful."

Luna scoots closer, her ethereal presence almost otherworldly. "Let's see what you're working on," she says, her voice soft as a whispering breeze. I explain my problem, and Luna listens intently, her large silvery eyes never leaving mine. As we delve into the complexities of the Ancient Runes equation, I find myself forgetting about the frustrations of my homework. Luna's insights are not just helpful; they're enlightening. She sees connections and patterns that I had never even considered. As we work together, the warmth of the fireplace, the quiet murmurs of our fellow Ravenclaws, and Luna's calming presence create a cocoon of serenity around us. I can't help but steal glances at Luna, her thoughtful expression, and the way her hair seems to shimmer in the firelight. Time seems to stand still in the Ravenclaw common room as Luna and I study together, sharing not only knowledge but also a connection that goes beyond words. It's a moment of quiet magic, and I can't help but feel grateful for Luna's unexpected presence and her unique way of looking at the world.

***

Sunday, September 5th 1993

I wake up to the soft rays of the sun filtering through my dormitory window. It's Sunday, and unlike the bustling weekdays at Hogwarts, Sundays are meant for relaxation. I stretch lazily, savouring the warmth of my cozy blankets. My fellow Ravenclaws are still asleep, and I can hear the gentle snores from the nearby beds. The castle is unusually quiet at this hour. It's as if even the ghosts are taking a break. I decide to get up, careful not to disturb anyone. After all, I wouldn't want to be woken up early on a Sunday either. I change into my casual clothes, comfortable sweater and jeans, before heading to the common room. The common room is nearly empty, with only a few early risers scattered around. I grab a book from my shelf and settle into a squashy armchair by the fireplace. The crackling of the flames and the faint scent of burning wood make for a cozy atmosphere. As I read, I absent-mindedly pet Bandit, who's curled himself on the arm of the chair. 

Around mid-morning, I decide to take a stroll around the castle grounds. The sun is now higher in the sky, casting a warm glow over the ancient stones of Hogwarts. I wander down to the Black Lake, where the Giant Squid is lazily swimming below the surface. It's one of those sights that never gets old. I make my way to the courtyard and sit on a stone bench, watching the occasional student pass by, lost in their own thoughts. It's a serene moment, and I find solace in the simple beauty of Hogwarts.

Lunchtime arrives, and I head to the Great Hall. The chatter and laughter of my fellow students fill the air as we enjoy a tasty meal. The food is as delicious as always, and I savour each bite. After lunch, I return to the common room. Some of my house mates are now awake, engrossed in their own activities. A game of Wizard's Chess is in progress, and the pieces move with calculated precision. I watch for a while, offering the occasional piece of advice when asked. The afternoon passes uneventfully. I do some light studying, read a bit more, and exchange pleasantries with fellow Ravenclaws. As the sun begins to set, I find myself back in my favourite armchair by the fire, lost in a novel.

Dinner is a casual affair, and I chat with friends about our plans for the upcoming week. There's nothing particularly pressing on my agenda, just the usual classes and homework. As the day comes to an end, I return to my dormitory, feeling grateful for the quiet simplicity of this not-so-eventful Sunday at Hogwarts. Tomorrow, the castle will come alive with the hustle and bustle of another week, but for now, I relish in the peace and tranquillity of the moment.