The Dreamer's Curse

Samuel's Official Declaration

[Chapter 18]

Dear Alice,

He’s here.

From Durmstrang.

The one who murdered Grandma Caroline—the one who’s helping Samuel is here. I’ve been rushing to and from class, avoiding him with all that’s in me lest I blast him to kingdom come.

On second thought, maybe I shouldn’t be avoiding him.

We can’t exactly report him to the Ministry, because so far he hasn’t done anything wrong… At least not that we know of…

The first task is over, and Harry’s all right, thank heavens. Actually, that’s an understatement. Harry was sublime! He used his flying skill to trick a dragon, quite talented that boy is.

Anyway, I’ve found out why we’ve had to bring dress robes. The Yule Ball’s a formal dance! Students have been flirting shamelessly since the whole thing was announced. I doubt I can stand much more of this senseless giggling. No wonder this isn’t held every year.

And, no, I’ve yet to find a partner. And, yes, I’ve turned a few offers down—oh, do stop laughing, I couldn’t possibly have gone with boys who couldn’t so much as hold a decent conversation for five minutes.

Oh, and while we’re on the subject, I do think Sirius should teach Harry how to get a proper date with a girl he likes. He’s been flabbergasted ‘round a certain Ravenclaw girl for the past week or so.

How is Sirius? Do you see a lot of him?

The snow is falling beautifully here at Hogwarts. It has wrapped the castle grounds in a fluffy white coat that’s wonderful to step on. Hestia, Flora and I have been instigating snowball fights in between lessons for a good laugh.

Well, I should get going. Professor Snape’s supposed to be testing our antidotes this morning.

Yours,

Jane

…

I slipped away from breakfast and made my way to the Owlery on the last day of term. I had worked on my antidote recipe all of last night, and felt more than a little groggy. I made my way up the slippery landings, careful not to break my neck, and tiptoed across the Owlery floor covered with owl droppings and hay, keeping my eyes peeled for Cato.

“Cato,” I whispered. “Show yourself, won’t you?”

The little owl made its way from one of the higher perches.

Cato perched himself on my shoulder and nipped my hand affectionately, asking for a treat.

“You’re quite greedy, you know,” I muttered before feeding Cato an owl treat. He hooted with great satisfaction and cocked his head slightly, as if asking for more. “Not until you get this to Alice.”

Cato clicked his beak in frustration, but held his leg out for me. I folded the letter up and tied it to his leg. With one last hoot, the saw-whet owl flew majestically out of the Owlery, keen on getting another treat.

I turned to leave when I slipped on a nasty owl dropping. A firm arm kept me from tumbling into the foul floor.

“Thanks,” I muttered, straightening myself before looking up.