Tides of Enchantment: Love's Alchemy in the Wizarding Realm

chapter 2: Masked Truth

Ocean is sitting comfortably on the couch, her fingers gently stroking Fred's hair as he lies with his head on her lap, a contented smile on his face. Her voice, melodic and soothing, fills the room with a gentle tune, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Lumi, seated in a nearby chair, is engrossed in writing a letter to Lupin, her smile soft and genuine, revealing the happiness she feels. Fred, noticing her expression, can't resist teasing her.

"What's got you smiling, Lumi?" Fred asks, his tone light and playful.

Ocean, with a knowing smile, replies before Lumi can answer, "You know why, Fred. Stop teasing her."

Fred chuckles, his laughter vibrating against Ocean's waist as he gives her a playful hug, his arms wrapping around her. On the floor, Flare and George are sharing a book, their bodies close as George's arm drapes over Flare's shoulder. George leans in to kiss her cheek, his smile warm and affectionate, while Flare blushes, her eyes never leaving the pages of the book.

Nearby, Faye is meticulously braiding Ginny's hair, her wand hovering over the strands, coaxing flowers to bloom and gently placing them in Ginny's hair. A small pile of vibrant flowers sits on the table next to them, ready to be woven into the intricate braid.

Breaking the tranquil moment, Fred speaks up again, this time with curiosity, "Lumi, didn't you say Ocean was going to have her awakening last year? What happened?"

Lumi looks up from her letter, her expression thoughtful. "I got it mixed up, Fred. It's this year—it happens when we reach maturity."

George, always ready with a quip, grins and says, "Aw, our Ocean is growing up." Ocean, in response, gives him a playful shove, rolling her eyes but unable to hide her smile.

Lumi, refocusing, turns to Ron, who is perched on the armrest nearby. "Ron, can you pass me the Siren book we got last year?"

Ron nods and reaches for the book, handing it to Lumi. As Lumi flips through the pages, she begins explaining in detail what happens during a Siren's awakening, her voice steady and informative. In the middle of her explanation, she pauses, her eyes narrowing slightly as she looks toward the door. "Ron, open the door—Harry is about to walk in."

Ron raises an eyebrow but does as Lumi suggests, opening the door just as Harry enters. "Hi, everyone," Harry greets, a bit surprised but not entirely unaccustomed to Lumi's foresight.

Ron smiles, clearly impressed. "You know, Lumi, I'm starting to love your foresight."

Lumi smiles back at him, pleased with the compliment. Faye, finishing the last of Ginny's braid, looks up and asks, "You staying here tonight, Harry?"

Harry nods, "Yeah, Mr. Weasley says we're doing something tomorrow."

Flare, glancing up from the book she shares with George, adds, "Yes, we have to wake up early."

Just then, Mrs. Weasley descends the stairs, her eyes lighting up as she spots Harry. "Harry! You found everything alright?"

Harry smiles, "Yes, Mrs. Weasley."

"Good," she says, nodding with approval. "You'll be sleeping in Ron's room tonight."

As Mrs. Weasley moves to check on something in the kitchen, Mr. Weasley comes down, looking at Ocean with a thoughtful expression. "Ocean, what's the weather going to be like tomorrow?"

Ocean, with a confident smile, replies, "Don't worry, Mr. Weasley, I've got it covered."

Harry, who has settled into the circle with everyone else, finally asks the question that's been on his mind. "I've been meaning to ask—why does the weather always seem to be in tune with Ocean?"