Stranger

Chapter 18 - Bloodline

"You're powerful. And dangerous if you don't learn to control it."

The next day arrived without so much as a whisper, bringing with it a rare quietude to the Slytherin dormitory. Many students had chosen to spend the rest of the winter holidays away from Hogwarts, opting for the comforts of home. This morning, however, the common room felt particularly empty. Violet was grateful for the peace, especially since both Malfoy and Pansy had gone home for the holidays. The last thing she wanted was to run into either of them, especially after the strange exchange with Malfoy the night before. Sadly, she hadn't had the chance to see Cedric off before he left. She hoped he would enjoy a merry Christmas with his family.

As she slipped out of bed, Violet noted that, aside from herself, Millicent Bulstrode was the only other girl in their dormitory. With a soft yawn, she dressed in her comfy clothes and made her way to the common room. The festive decorations still illuminated the space beautifully, echoing the enchanting atmosphere from the previous night's ball. "Right, the night before..." she mused, recalling the moments spent dancing with Cedric and the unexpected turn with Malfoy. A curious sensation washed over her as she passed the fireplace where they had danced.

Had it simply been an emotional lapse that would go unspoken?

Violet continued down the corridor, her footsteps echoing off the marble stairs as she entered the Great Hall. The transformation was astonishing. The ball decorations had vanished completely, leaving no trace of the vibrant celebration that had filled the room just hours before. It never ceased to amaze her what magic could accomplish in such a short time.

As she took in the scene, Violet noticed several staff members had chosen to remain at Hogwarts as well. The Great Hall was now occupied by students from the guest schools, their unfamiliar faces blending into the background.

The tables were laden with delicious Christmas-themed breakfast dishes, and Violet's mouth watered at the sight. She settled into her usual spot at the Slytherin table, excitement bubbling within her as she prepared to dig in. Just then, she felt a familiar pat on her back. There was no need to look. She knew it was Hermione.

"Mind if I join you?" Hermione asked, sliding into the seat beside Violet with a bright smile.

"You're already sitting down," Violet replied, trying to ignore the slight nervousness that crept in at the idea of discussing anything from the previous night. 

Hermione looked around at the small amount of Slytherins by the table and slightly shivered. "Ghastly." She murmured under her nose. Violet just chucked at the girls comment. Somehow she would almost agree with her.

"What brings you here?"

"I thought I'd check in on you. It's a bit lonely in Gryffindor without everyone around," Hermione said, her eyes glancing around the nearly empty hall. "Plus, I couldn't resist the chance to enjoy a Slytherin breakfast—especially if it means no one will be around to make fun of me for my choices."

Violet chuckled lightly. "Yeah, it's definitely quieter. I guess everyone is off with their families or sleeping in."

Hermione nodded, her expression thoughtful. "You know, I really enjoyed the ball. I didn't expect to, but it was lovely to see everyone dressed up and having a good time."

Violet felt her cheeks warm at the mention of the ball. "Yeah, it was... different."

"I was thinking this morning," Hermione began, her enthusiasm radiating from her like the morning sun. "Since there will be a lot fewer students in the library, we could go through that Legilimency book together. We might even find a spot for you to practice today."