#like kanadiamari Ruby's animagus form

[athyrabunlord]

the voted scene from LLSHP(S) - Second Task: Black Lake

GIF version on my twitter

[athyrabunlord]

LLSHP Interlude - Carbonado(2)

Arc1: [Chapter 1] [Chapter 2] [Chapter 3] [Chapter 4] [Chapter 5] [Chapter 6] [Chapter 7]

Arc2: [Chapter 8] [Chapter 9] [Chapter 10] [Chapter 11] [Chapter 12] [Chapter 13] [Chapter 14]

Arc3: [Chapter 15 -  Under The Black Lake (TBD)]

Interlude: [Carbonado (1)] [Carbonado (2)] [Of Feathers and Wind] [Delphinus (teaser blip)]

[Brief note about School Term] [other LLSHP AU stuff] [YohaMaRuby concept arts] [ChikaYouRiko concept arts] [KanaDiaMari concept arts] [Hogwarts Staff]

[FFN link] (finished the interludes!) [Pixiv Link]

A/N: Again, reminder that this interlude takes place prior to the beginning of this AU and up until ch10, so yes most of it overlaps with the main story, with Riko’s POV. Without further ado, here’s part2! Words: 7,043

Riko inhales deeply, filling her lungs with the fresh and floral aroma, and exhales deeply with her eyes closed. Her prediction back in the winter holidays was true - Dia’s private garden is indeed breathtaking.

In the heat of the summer, the sakura trees and many flowers have been Charmed to blossom since spring time, creating a picturesque scene to welcome any visitors. With the pink petals gently rustling along the breeze and the grass so green and full of vitality, she almost has the urge to lie down and allow nature to envelope her senses.

How fortunate she is to visit the Kurosawa Estate again.

Unlike the winter vacation, Riko has made peace with her demons, at least to a certain extent. She alternates in between staying home, visiting Chika and You, and meeting up with Dia, Mari and Kanan. She enjoys patching up the distance between her and her two best friends, as well as grow closer to the three seniors.

Needless to say, she had been alarmed to learn that the hooded figures had targeted Dia again. Mari and Kanan readily bring her to the Kurosawa Estate like last time, and while Dia grumbles about their fussing, she at least seems pleased to have Riko here.

Today is especially a fine day for them, for many of the Elders have left the Estate for meetings and so they fully made use of the lighter surveillance around the main compounds. Dia is able to spend some time with Ruby, and have Kanan and Mari, both in their Animagus form, accompany Ruby back to her side of the compound. Dia has already done so a few times in the past, and from her two friends’ narration, Ruby seems to enjoy their company.

At least, Kanan and Mari are able to play the role of an older sister when Dia cannot. Riko could tell this bothers Dia a great deal, understandably so, though she feels rather helpless about this situation.

To keep Dia distracted, the younger witch talks of her summer adventures with Chika and You, about the former’s massive pet dog Shiitake and the latter’s father, who works as a ship captain and had taken them out to the sea once.

As they walk around the garden, Riko inevitably finds herself asking Dia about those attacks, not that she could do anything to help the situation. A stubborn and hopeful part of her insists that, as long as she knows more details, she might be able to offer some sort of advice. The self-defeating part just scoffs at such notion.

Dia, being the kind girl she is, senses her restlessness and does as she requests.

“I am nearly certain that they are after my blood, the blood of a Pureblood heiress in its prime,” Dia murmurs evenly, as if she were discussing the weather and not about threats aimed at her person. “Perhaps the quill was even meant for me in the first place. You were simply unfortunate enough to have stumbled upon it before me.”

“No, Dia-san. I can see where this is going,” Riko walks in front of the taller witch to gaze at her face to face. “Those unknown attackers are at fault. We are the victims. So, don’t even think about blaming yourself.”

Dia’s lips quirk in slight amusement. “Then, have you stopped thinking that you brought Kanan-san, Mari-san and myself into this situation?”

“That’s different,” Riko sighs tiredly. “If it weren’t for me, you could have requested Aurors, or even other members of your family, to increase security or even try to trace these attackers. The terms for the Unbreakable Vow were rather ambiguous, so perhaps we should-”

“No. Nothing is worth risking your life, Riko-san. I can defend myself just fine.”

Dia sounds rather angry, so Riko simply nods and drops the issue for now. That magical contract has always been an enigma for them, though they dare not test its limits in case it is accidentally broken and that would be fatal for her. When the three older witches first found Riko and the unconscious Chika and You, Riko had felt the Vow’s magic extending to them, binding them for reasons unknown. Perhaps this is due to Dia’s own conflict against the hooded assailants, making her and her friends ‘qualify’ and be included in the Vow.

They cannot know for sure, but that doesn’t make Riko feel any less guilty.

“I just want you to understand that you are important to m… us,” Dia’s expression softens as she reaches for a stray petal that has landed on Riko’s shoulder. When she carefully cradles the pink sakura in her palm, Riko has to avert her gaze for the simple gesture fills her with self-consciousness.

Dia clears her throat and speaks in a more neutral tone. “Well then, what of your studies so far? What have you been working?”

More comfortable with such topic, Riko eagerly discusses the various potions she was able to brew, as well as the spells she mastered. She is especially pleased with one particular Charm.

“Incredible. Mari-san, Kanan-san and I only managed to cast the Patronus Charm in the middle of our Third-Year,” Dia observes the silver feline prancing around the garden. The corporeal Charm is shimmering brightly, its Kneazle-like tail flicking and its paws gracefully stepping onto the grass.

“Truthfully, I thought I’d have trouble conjuring it,” Riko dispels the Charm and turns away from the older girl, fiddling with her wand. “But I was able to think of the happy times, drawing strength from them just as how I always do in my studies.”

“Your goal of becoming a Mediwitch is unwavering, fueled by a positive emotion which is what the Charm needs,” Dia’s voice then drops to a rather embarrassed tone. “You have shown me something private about yourself, Riko-san, so it is only fair that I do the same. Expecto Patronum.”

Riko blinks at the glimmering king penguin sliding over the grass on its belly. The corporeal Charm flips over and waddles on its feet, tilting its head at her. Cute as it may appear, she could sense its immense power, which reflects its caster’s magic.

“Unexpected, yes?”

There are many comments flying in Riko’s head, and she could almost hear Mari’s jokes, so she decides for a curt nod in case she disrespects her senior.

“Ahem. Well, my Patronus used to match my Animagus form, but… as you can see, mine, Mari-san’s and Kanan-san’s are all aquatic creatures. During last summer, we had an adventure of some sorts in the Black Lake, and that must have caused our Patronus to change.”

Too surprised to comment, Riko could only blink up at the taller girl. Now that Dia has mentioned it, Riko did wonder why Kanan and Mari turn into a wolf and cat respectively, when their Patronus Charms are a dolphin and a seal.

Also, she hasn’t ever seen Dia’s Animagus form.

“That is a tale for another time, one that I am certain Mari would be delighted in sharing. It is not mine to tell,” Dia shakes her head, dispelling the harmless-looking penguin with a flick of her wand. “Hmm? Is something the matter?”

“Uh, well, I was just thinking, how the three of you are able to achieve your Animagus forms. It’s highly complex magic and takes incredible time and effort… ah, I’m not doubting your skills or anything-”

“I agree, Riko-san. Thinking back, I still wonder from time to time how we managed it,” Dia is wearing a fond, nostalgic smile. “Kanan-san did work very hard, while it comes rather easily for Mari-san. Again, it is their story to tell, not mine. I just did it, to prove that I could too.”

Riko nods hesitantly. She knows that Dia is competitive, a quality she could understand as well, but this just shows how amazing the heiress is. Once again, she feels humbled to be able to speak with and learn from Dia.

“M-May I see it?” Those words slips out of her mouth before she could stop them.

“Pardon?”

She licks her dry lips and whispers bashfully. “Your Animagus form… may I see it?”

Dia makes a rather comical expression then, her eyes wide in surprise. A tense silence passes by before Riko covers her face in embarrassment at her silly request. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have asked. It must be a sensitive secret, right? I mean, Mari-san and Kanan-san only revealed their forms to me because of their patrols and frequent Transformations. Please forget that I asked, Dia-san, you don’t have to-?”

Finding it odd that Dia would let her continue to ramble, Riko peeks through her fingers and discovers that the heiress has vanished.

“...Dia-san?”

Just as she is about to search the garden, she notices a small form slowly approaching her. Awed, she crouches down and reaches for the black rabbit. The critter’s dark pelt is cottony soft under her hands and very well-groomed, the fur almost shimmering under the sunlight. Gently, she cradles the bunny and finds herself caressing its ears.

Other than its intelligent emerald eyes, the rabbit also has white markings under the base of its ears that resemble Dia’s hairclips. Similar to how Kanan has an unusually long tail for a wolf and how Mari’s tail is whip-like as opposed to an average cat’s, those two traits separate Dia from a regular black rabbit.

Riko had expected her Animagus form to be a snake or even a jaguar, not this innocent herbivore. A rabbit simply isn’t the image of the Kurosawa heiress. However, an Animagus form doesn’t lie, for it is determined by one’s personality and inner traits. Perhaps, this is what Dia would have been like, had she grown up without all those expectations and responsibilities. She never provokes anyone or unsheathes her saber unless absolutely necessary. The only exception would be around Mari and Kanan, but Riko can tell that Dia doesn’t ever want to seriously hurt her friends.

Maybe, just maybe, Dia would rather avoid all conflicts, except circumstances forbid her from doing so. Now, holding the bunny in her arms, Riko is filled with the desire to protect it from harm. She also relishes in that sense of peace and soothing effect, similar to whenever she cuddles her pet Kneazle. Smiling, Riko couldn’t help but lightly scratch it between the ears like she would with Sandy.

The rabbit lowers its ears, seemingly pleased at the attention and treatment. Automatically, Riko leans down and nuzzles its cheek before smooching its brow. When the rabbit goes rigid in her arms, Riko snaps out of her daze and is struck by the reminder that this rabbit is Dia Kurosawa.

What did I just do?!

Mortified, she hastily places the bunny onto the grass. Almost instantly, it transforms back to the black-haired heiress, whose cheeks have darkened several shades. Both flustered into silence, they dumbly stare at each other for a while but adamant to avoid meeting each other’s eyes.

A slight rustling behind Dia breaks the stalemate, and Riko is almost relieved to spot familiar gold and dark indigo shapes fleeing into the bushes.

“Ma. Ri. San. Ka. Na. N. San! Y-You saw everything-?!” Dia summons her broom and chases after her friends without glancing back. Riko is grateful for the distraction as she crouches down again and covers her heated cheeks.

She’ll have to somehow regain her composure before the others return. But the challenge is, how is supposed to face Dia again after this? Although, it feels rather nice, to see and learn more about the older girl, so she’ll just have to somehow survive Mari’s teasing later.

Perhaps the embarrassment is too much, for she begins to giggle in mirth and is fully laughing by the time Dia returns with petrificus totalus-stricken wolf and cat levitated behind her.

Dia’s cheeks are still flushed from annoyance and the chase, but she relaxes upon seeing her and also lets out a few chuckles. The awkward atmosphere between them diffuses and they are able to return to discussing various areas of study.

Kanan and Mari are inadvertently forgotten and remained magically-petrified for a few hours. Kanan shrugs it off with a grin. Mari is not amused, and the chase between her and Dia resume.

All is well.

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“So? What are your thoughts,  Mari-san?”

“Hmm? She’s a very interesting girl, and seems to have a good heart,” Mari taps her finger on her chin. “She helped out this other new student, another Muggleborn, with her luggage.”

“I see. Then, why was the entry barred from them?” Riko hasn’t even realized that she is gripping the black feather so hard until Mari gently pats her shoulder. Riko loosens her hold, noticing the crescent-shaped marks on her palm, and sighs wearily. “It can’t be a coincidence and you know it, Mari-san.”

“I agree with you on that, but there’s nothing we can do except observe,” the senior Ravenclaw’s voice is low like a feline’s growl. “We do not want to jump into any conclusions, sì?”

Riko slumps in her seat and rubs her throbbing temple. The illusion of paradise from the summer vacation is long gone. She thought she had prepared herself for anything, but the appearance of a raven-haired teenager with a feather affixed to her bun took her by surprise. She’ll have this whole train ride until they reach Hogwarts to figure out how to handle this situation.

As if to lighten up the somber atmosphere, Mari suddenly flicks Riko’s forehead, earning a yelp. “Yoshiko Tsushima reminds me of you, Rikocchi, though you were much shyer while this one has the recklessness of a Gryffindor~”

Pouting, Riko scoots away from the blonde. “You think she’d be Sorted there?”

“Hmm, it’s possible, though instincts tell me she’d get along with Dia just fine~”

As peculiar as Mari could be, her instincts have proven scarily accurate so far. Riko could offer a slight nod before sinking back into her contemplative shell. She smiles gratefully when Mari transforms and curls up on her lap, knowing that she needs the comfort.

Dia and Kanan have gone to Hogwarts in the morning, for a cursory patrol around the perimeters, as well as to prepare for her duties as Head Girl this year. No matter how much Riko requests Mari privately, the blonde is adamant in accompanying her instead of Dia. Even though Kanan is very dependable, Riko would still rather the Fifth-Years stick together so that Dia would be well-protected.

Riko knows first-hand how powerful Dia is, but there are so many things unknown about the hostiles and she just can’t help but worry. In order to distract herself, she peruses her research note and examines the black feather again. The least she and Mari could do is to keep watch over Dia’s little sister, and monitor this odd girl with the feather.

Perhaps this Yoshiko is suitable for the House of Gryffindor, since she and her two companions vanished from the train station not long after they arrive. Adventurous and daring, like how Chika and You are. Mari manages to locate them somewhere in the outskirts of the Forbidden Forest and directs them back to the Thestral-pulled carriages. Riko is certainly surprised that Yoshiko is able to see those skeletal horse-like creatures like she could.

Perhaps, the younger girl has also experienced loss akin to death?

Finding a kindred spirit in Yoshiko, Riko could feel her opinion towards her lighten a bit. It’s highly probable that the Muggleborn has no idea that her feather is a Dark object. After she welcomes the trio inside of Hogwarts, she then switches her attention to Ruby and Dia. The older Kurosawa, expectedly, pays her sister no heed while the latter glances nervously in her direction every now and then. Riko mentally makes a reminder to prod Kanan for details of their patrol earlier, since Dia appears to be troubled by something.

“Oh my, the plot thickens doesn’t it?” Mari’s light-hearted words belie her worried tone as the Sorting Hat announces its decision. The two Ravenclaws watch Ruby anxiously approach the Hufflepuff table with her head held high. Riko glances at Dia, only to find her expression as placid as ever.

When it is Yoshiko’s turn, she waves at Riko, who returns the gesture with mild confusion. Surely, such a cheerful, optimistic person belongs to Gryffindor?

Again, she is taken aback by the Sorting Hat’s instantaneous decision to place the Muggleborn in the House of Slytherin, which consists of only Purebloods. Riko hears that there have been Muggleborn Slytherins in the past few decades, such as their feisty Charms Professor, but they have Pureblood ancestry traced back centuries ago. Maybe Yoshiko has a similar background as well?

The rest of the Sorting and Welcome Feast continue on without a hitch. Riko’s mind is rather weary from all the events so far, so she couldn’t wait to fulfill her Prefect duties for the night and retire to the Room of Requirement to convene with the others.

To her surprise, she only sees Kanan by the time she enters the Room around midnight. The ponytailed Gryffindor is in the middle of muffling a yawn and is sprawled on the floor, most likely having just changed back to her human form. Chuckling sheepishly, she stands up and elaborates when she notices Riko’s questioning glance.

“Ah, Mari said she’s escorting Hanamaru - that’s Ruby’s friend, the brunette with the glasses - back to Hufflepuff, while Dia’s taking Yoshiko back to the Slytherin Dorms. They found the two girls wandering around the corridor near the grand staircase.”

“Eh? How did they manage to do that without other Prefects noticing…” Riko frowns, also berating herself for not being diligent enough in her rounds, even though she was assigned to a different area.

“These girls are promising~” Kanan’s grin is rather childish, her mischievous Gryffindor side surfacing whenever she’s tired. “Seems like it’ll be an eventful school year too, especially with the way it started already.”

There’s something in Kanan’s tone that Riko doesn’t like. Upon interrogation, the older girl reluctantly reveals that she and Dia were attacked by those hooded figures in the Forest earlier. Alarmed, she pleads for Kanan to return to the Gryffindor Tower to make sure that Chika and You are alright. While those mysterious attackers haven’t come near the duo since that time, Riko refuses to leave it up to chance.

Now the only person left in the Room, Riko busies herself by placing a quarantine spell on the black feather near the rest they had gathered over the past year. She feels slightly foolish for staying, since it’s well past midnight already so she should just go back to the Ravenclaw Tower to rest.

Much to her joy, hours later, the door opens to reveal a very tired Dia.

“Riko-san? What are you doing here? You should be in your Dorm, resting.”

“So should you, Dia-san,” Riko feels the tension in her body finally lifting. She hasn’t spoken to Dia the whole day and that’s been gnawing at the corner of her mind. “Kanan-san informed me that you escorted Tsushima-san back to the Slytherin Dorm. You should have stayed there instead of coming here.”

“I… feel too restless. Also,” Dia sinks down in one of the couches and rubs the bridge of her nose, a habitual gesture whenever she’s abashed. “I suppose I just wanted to see if you would be here, even though it is so late.”

Something warm flutters in Riko’s heart as she gingerly sits down beside the older girl. “...I was waiting to see if you’d come here as well, Dia-san.”

“Is that so? We are both rather foolish, are we not?” Dia’s lips quirk in amusement. “Well then, since we are both here… Mari-san said that the two of you found another feather?”

“Yes, and I’d like you to tell me more about the encounter Kanan-san mentioned…”

Perhaps it is the familiar atmosphere in the Room of Requirement, for any vestige of fatigue fades away as the two witches exchange stories and catch up. It’s comfortable, therapeutic even, and all that unease about the attackers’ reappearance and the mysterious feather is soothed by Dia’s presence so close by.

Sensing there’s something else bothering the older girl, Riko gathers her courage and asks about Ruby.

“... I am pleased that she is Sorted into Hufflepuff, not Slytherin. She would excel there, and she appears to be making friends fast, especially in Kunikida-san and Tsushima-san. According to Mari-san, the three of them are already protective of one another,” Dia says slowly, though a minute tremor reveals her hidden emotion.

“But-?” Riko coaxes gently, and Dia’s poised expression starts to crack.

“But apparently, my family had sent Ruby a Howler and humiliated her in front of all her Housemates. Professor Koizumi managed to intervene before the full message was delivered, but…” Dia slouches in her seat, her fingers interlaced as she rests her chin on them. “If only I could go and comfort her. What kind of sister am I, for letting her suffer like this?”

“Dia-san-”

“Now that we are far away from our family’s scrutiny, here at Hogwarts, I thought that perhaps I could carefully, secretively, amend our relationship. However, now that it’s confirmed that those accursed attackers want the Kurosawa blood, I cannot have Ruby come anywhere near me. I will not subject my little sister to such menace!”

The pain in Dia’s voice hurts Riko too. She timidly reaches out and covers Dia’s hand with her own. Dia responds by giving her a heartrending smile and whimsically strokes the back of Riko’s hand with her thumb.

“The least I can do is to stop my family from harassing Ruby. Hmm, she has always been fond of my owl, I can certainly acquire one for her. Perhaps a tawny owl that likes flowers… do you think she would like that?”

Riko nods with certainty, feeling helpless when she notices Dia’s eyes shimmer with tears.

“As awful and untrue as it is, they will consider her a… lost cause now that she is in Hufflepuff. All that unnecessary pressure shall be gone, so she could finally enjoy herself. She… she is free.”

Before the first tear even trickle down Dia’s cheek, Riko pulls her into her arms. Dia doesn’t struggle and simply rests her head against Riko’s shoulder, her body trembling in soundless sobs.

Is there nothing she could do to help Dia? It must be terribly stressful to maintain that indomitable facade. Dia is just human. There must be times she simply wants to crumble and let go of her emotions.

I will be her refuge.

Riko tightens her hug.

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“Lily! Look look, it’s eating the apple! Eck-?!”

Riko giggles when the Thestral nudges Yoshiko affectionately, almost knocking her over in the process. The younger girl harrumphs and tries to scold the creature, but it’s obvious how she enjoys the attention.

Thestrals have ominous reputation and scary appearances. Riko herself was intimidated when she first saw them but now, they are possibly one of the most endearing magical creatures she has ever known. They seem to understand one’s sorrow and bring out the hidden joy.

Yoshiko certainly seems to appreciate that. The young Slytherin indeed reminds Riko a lot of herself, especially seeing her with Hanamaru and Ruby. Such nostalgia had prompted her to view the Mirror of Erised again, but that momentary lapse had caused Dia to hug her so the incident was overall pleasant.

Other than her accidental discovery, Yoshiko hasn’t been able to locate the Room of Requirement again, much to Riko’s relief. After getting to know the girl more and more, Riko wishes to protect that innocent quality as best as she could. The way she is so fascinated by magic and her eagerness to learn make their tutor sessions enjoyable. In fact, it’s almost comparable to her own sessions with Dia, and so the sense of kindred spirit just grows stronger and stronger.

“Hnff, stop laughing and come help me, Lily!” Three Thestrals are nuzzling Yoshiko, having long lost interest in the apple in her hand. These creatures prefer raw meat after all, so accepting a fruit from her already speaks volumes of how they adore her.

“Yocchan is popular,” Riko muffles another mirthful chuckle before distracting the Thestrals. Or, perhaps, these intelligent creatures could sense that Yoshiko is a good girl.

Truthfully, when Yoshiko first called her Lily, such sensitive nickname almost tore down her composure. Yet, as time goes on, Riko finds the process rather healing. While she will always have mixed feelings about the time spent with the quill, at least she can now look back at the happier times without that sting of guilt.

After all, how could she possibly associate this happily grinning girl with that wretched quill?

She isn’t the only one growing fond of Yoshiko and the other two First-Years. Chika and You enjoy playing with the volatile Slytherin while showering Ruby with love, something that Dia both appreciates and is rather envious of. Kanan has certainly taken Hanamaru under her wing since they are often found napping together by the Black Lake.

And Riko would never admit it, but Mari’s newfound ‘toy’ in Yoshiko makes Riko miss the older Ravenclaw’s irritating teases. Just slightly.

While those blank states of mind that Yoshiko experiences perturb her, they have been harmless so far, as inexplicable as they are. Dia’s temporary solution of Charming the girl’s scarf works, and nothing out of the ordinary has happened since the first day of school, making the term so far peaceful as they develop their bond with the three endearing First-Years.

Riko regrets allowing her guard to drop.

She is completely unprepared when, weeks later, she is forced to reveal her past and induct Yoshiko and Hanamaru into the Unbreakable Vow. Those tendrils of magic, something so Dark and corrupted, should not have originated from someone as guileless as Yoshiko. Moreover, those tendrils share the same properties as those feathers, which Riko has tentatively considered as Horcruxes even though they are not the same.

How had everything spiraled out of control so easily? Then again, nothing was ever within her control in the first place.

Riko tries to suppress her nervous jitters as she glances at the door out of the corner of her eyes. The sight of Kanan’s arm in a sling makes her stomach churn, and Mari’s stoney expression sends shivers down her spine. Even then, the two seniors maintain their friendly demeanor as they chat with the three First-Years. In spite of everything she’s learned, Yoshiko still remain positive and appears to take everything in a stride. Her selfless offer to help as much as possible touches Riko, strengthening her desire to protect her

After Dia bids the trio good night, Kanan and Mari open the door and lead the younger girls away, most likely to escort them back to their respective Dorms. For the first time ever, Riko is reluctant to be left alone with Dia.

As soon as the older girl turns towards her, she blurts out. “I’m so sorry, Dia-san. I know you wanted to keep Ruby-chan out of this-”

Dia stops her with a severe tone. “And I still do, but Yoshiko-san is correct. It would be awful if Ruby is kept out of the loop, seeing how close she is with Hanamaru-san and Yoshiko-san. It would be fine if we do not reveal everything and simply concentrate on training her. And, admittedly…” She lowers her head as if sheepish. “In a way, I appreciate this opportunity for me to reconnect with her again. She does not seem to bear any ill feelings towards me, and I am grateful.”

“Y-You’re not upset… about what happened?”

“Of course not, I was merely taken by surprise. There was no way we could have foreseen this, so it is prudent that we make the most of it and prepare ourselves should another similar incident occurs.”

Riko sighs shakily, the trepidation falling away along with her composure. Before she realizes it, Dia has closed their distances in several strides and enveloped her within her arms.

“Silly. Rather than me, I am more concerned about you, having to recount details of that day again,” Dia murmurs against Riko’s hair as she caresses her back. “How are you feeling?”

Riko clings back with everything she has and, strangely, she does not feel the urge to cry now even though sobs were bubbling in her chest earlier. “I-I’ve calmed down, now that I have time to ponder about it. I just wish all of this could’ve been avoidable. They were just First-Years!”

She tries to keep self-loathing and pity at bay, she really does, but telling Yoshiko her past with the quill and of Chika and You leaves a bitter taste in her mouth. She vows to never let Yoshiko experience the same despair.

Dia pulls away a bit. “Look at me.”

Riko shakes her head, feeling a familiar sting in her eyes even though they feel dry.

“Look at me, please.”

Timidly, she blinks several times and peers up. Dia’s gaze is so gentle that Riko does feel an urge to cry.

“Things will get better. We are all on your side. Do you understand me?”

She nods weakly.

“Good. Now, please go get some rest, I just have some errands to finish-.”

Such a familiar argument brings a small smile to her face. “Again, I should say the same. Let me help you, Dia-san.”

“Riko-san.”

“Dia-san.”

They stare at each other, neither willing to relent. Riko says quietly. “Like you said, you are not alone either. I… I’m here too. I want to be of help to you.”

Dia exhales and appears to be conflicted about something. “... you already have.”

Riko is stunned when the taller girl leans in and places a soft kiss against her forehead. The simple contact causes warmth to fill her chest and her smile widens. Coyly, she burrows her face against the crook of Dia’s neck and indulges herself in this moment of contentedness.

Dia is right. While they don’t know what would happen in the future, she is confident that, with Dia by her side, things will turn out fine at the end. It has long developed from gratitude to trust and fondness, and as impossible as it may be, this almost-overwhelming feeling just continues to grow.

Dia-san, I lo-

Riko dares not allow her mind to complete such thought.

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Amber eyes stare dazedly at the ceiling, sleep escaping her like usual but it is for a different reason this night. Riko could still feel the phantom brush of Dia’s lips against her knuckles and her cheek, her mind whirling with memories of the Christmas Banquet earlier.

Dia has only kissed her a total of two times, a chivalrous one on her knuckles after their dance, and another chaste one on her cheek when Dia escorted her back to her Dorm.

Yet, each kiss felt so achingly intimate, so tender that she feels like melting. And the way Dia gazed at her, like she was the only person in the world, her whole world...

Riko’s cheeks heat up as she rolls over in her bed. Never in her seventeen years of life has she had the urge to giggle like a hopelessly smitten girl, but after tonight, she has resigned and accepted how she feels about Dia. Dia seems to return her feelings too, since she is the only person the heiress has danced with the whole night. Riko doesn’t want to get her hopes up, but wishful thinking keeps pervading her thoughts whenever she tries to ponder about safer topics like school assignments and whatnot.

As if entranced, she kisses her own knuckles softly, the same spot that Dia did. Her blush darkens again and she hastily buries her face in her pillow.

A quiet yowl reminds her that she isn’t totally alone in the Prefect dorm. Sandy must have been roused by her restless movements, and she could feel the Kneazle hopping onto her bed and pawing at her shoulder as if worried.

Peeking out, Riko is about to hug her pet when she notices Sandy nudging a hairclip towards her. The sakura flower pin was given by Dia before they parted ways, as a Christmas present.

Maybe she is imagining things, but the intelligent Kneazle seems to be smirking at her.

“Y-You hang out with Mari-san too much!” Mortified, Riko pulls the cover over her head but is still unsuccessful in falling asleep, especially since Sandy keeps purring in amusement.

The few days after the Banquet is like a breather, since most students have gone home for the holidays and they have all returned to routine meetings and training in the Room of Requirement. Both she and Dia are quite occupied by their respective self-assigned tasks, so she is able to regain composure to a certain extent and interact with the heiress as normally as possible.

So far, Mari is surprisingly quiet on the matter, but judging from Dia’s flustered reactions, she must be teasing her friend whenever Riko is out of hearing range. Kanan has been wearing a perpetual smile, one that seems to say ‘I’m happy for you’ whenever she looks at Riko’s direction. Even Chika and You give her a similar expression, making Riko very self-conscious.

Her embarrassment grows when Yoshiko catches her staring at Dia, and skyrockets after she casts the Patronus Charm. Riko is beyond shocked, for while she’s acknowledged her feeling, she has no idea how deeply it runs, enough to actually change her Patronus form to a rabbit. The worst part is that everyone saw it, especially Dia.

Which brings her to her current predicament.

“Riko-san…? Are you alright?”

She squirms shyly, her heart speeding up when Dia reaches for her hand. She appreciates Kanan and Mari making them go to Madame Puddifoot’s at Hogsmeade, but she has absolutely no idea what to do now that she’s alone with Dia. The fluffy atmosphere around the tea shop, which is filled with other couples, certainly doesn’t calm her nerves.

“Apologies for Mari-san and Kanan-san’s behavior. Would you like to go somewhere else?”

Taking a deep breath, Riko dares to look up and is surprised to see Dia just as nervous as she is. Suddenly, a wave of calmness washes over her and Riko squeezes their intertwined hands.

“Let’s enjoy the dessert here first, Dia-san. I hear that they serve good matcha pudding?”

Dia sheepishly averts her gaze, making Riko giggle in fondness. While she finds the tea shop’s interior designs tacky and small tables uncomfortable, she admits that the dessert is quite delicious.

Or is it because she is in Dia’s company?

Riko smiles to herself as the pair exits the shop, hand in hand. Just as Dia said, everything did get better, and there have been no irregularities they couldn’t control, and no attacks. Chika and You have returned back to her life, and it feels so fulfilling to be surrounded by new and old friends.

“Is there any place you would like to go, Riko-san?”

An idea enters her mind then. It has been over a year, so she feels ready to confront the last demon of her past. “I’ve been foolish in avoiding it, Dia-san. There could be valuable items inside the Hut that we could learn from.”

Dia narrows her eyes and nods slowly while pulling Riko close. The younger girl appreciates the comforting gesture as she leads her towards the outskirts of Hogsmeade while quietly explaining the nature behind the Hut.

The abandoned building is even shabbier than the Shack a distance away, at least outwardly, and it is located deeply in the forest. What makes the Hut special is that it cannot be found by means other than through a Secret-Keeper.

“You have casted the Fidelius Charm-?”

Riko could understand why Dia is awed. It is a highly complex spell that no average student could have possibly cast it correctly. Alas, back then, she has the help of the quill and that is how the Hut remains undiscovered through this past year.

“Technically, Chika-chan and You-chan are still Secret-Keepers like I am, but since they don’t remember, they would not be able to pass on the secret,” Riko flicks her wand around the forest, checking one last time to confirm that she and Dia are the only people here. She then describes the Hut’s exact location to Dia and smiles faintly when the older girl blinks at the building, which must have materialized abruptly for her only after hearing the address.

“...are you sure, Riko-san?”

“Yes. I’m done running away. I should’ve done this earlier, but I admit that I haven’t even thought of this place for a long time.” Even as she says that, her heart pounds painfully within her chest. Remnants of terror persist in spite of her bravado.

After all, it isn’t that far from the Hut, the very campsite where they were ambushed and she was forced to Obliviate Chika and You.

But it’s also where she was found by Dia and the others.

An end, but also a beginning.

The heiress squeezes her hand again before they enter the Hut together. The place hasn’t changed at all, still mostly immaculate without any hint of dust. The arrangement of furniture remains the same as she remembers, with two overturned stools at the corner of the living room and a long table separating it from the kitchenette. Chika and You used the stools as pseudo goalposts when they played soccer in the magically enlarged area. The ball is tucked onto the wooden legs, which was placed there after Riko had tripped over it one time and Hexed the two to clean up their mess.

Riko’s breathing hitches as memories, some vague and some vivid, fill her mind in an unstoppable torrent. She might have collapsed onto her knees if Dia hasn’t held her steady.

“Riko-san, perhaps we should-”

“No, I’m okay, really,” Riko smiles weakly and gestures at the stairway leading to the basement. “That’s where we did most of our experiments and training. All the books should still be there, cauldrons and probably some leftover ingredients too.”

Dia nods, but makes no move to follow Riko. “Dia-san?”

“Should you really be showing me all of this?”

Puzzled, Riko turns to face her. “I’m not sure I understand what you mean.”

“All of this… This is something very personal. I am honored that you would consider me trustworthy enough, Riko-san, but…”

A flicker of fond exasperation tickles at her heart, lifting the somber atmosphere enough for Riko to speak with certainty. “After everything we’ve experienced, Dia-san, that’s a rather silly question. Do you have any idea how much you’ve done for me? I was able to stand on my feet again. I was able to… open my mind to new possibilities and people into my life. Thanks to you, I-I…” She trails off and swallows hard, her confidence wavering but her words sincere. “I’m able to remember how to truly smile again.”

For some reason, Dia begins to chuckle.

Rather miffed by the response, Riko pouts and waits for the older girl to elaborate.

“Do not fret, Riko-san, I am just laughing at myself, at my own indecisiveness and cowardice.”

“Eh?”

“If you can face your own demons, then I shall be brave as well and do something I have wanted to for a long time now.”

Under Riko’s inquisitive eyes, Dia gingerly retrieves a small velvety box from her pocket. “Rather than the hairclip, I had meant for this to be your Christmas present, to give to you after our dance, but I… well, I chickened out, for a lack of better description. I felt uncertain about many things, and admittedly I was fearful of ruining what we have. I do not want to lose that.”

Riko’s distinctly aware of her heart thundering in her ears when she notices the Kurosawa crest on the box.

“I should have acted sooner. If it were not for your Patronus, I might have continued to hesitate. But now here we are, there is no reason for me to hold back anymore.”

The box is carefully opened, revealing a necklace with a carbonado as its center jewel. Riko’s lips tremble as she struggles to speak. “I-I cannot accept something so valuable-”

“Yes you can. I would like you to have it, Riko-san.” The earlier indecision have faded away as Dia assertively takes one step forward. “Indeed, this is a precious gem, but that is not all that it represents. My name is Dia Kurosawa, and this is a black diamond. In other words, it represents me. My magic is imbued in the jewel so that, if it ever comes to a situation when you need help, it will protect you.”

She glances between Dia and the necklace, a lump forming in her throat as she tries to understand the magnitude of such exchange. “...why me?”

Dia’s smile softens as she holds Riko’s gaze and repeats the same words she herself had told Dia earlier. “That is a rather silly question, considering everything we had gone through together. You have become very dear to me, Riko-san. I...”

Riko feels a familiar warmth and sting at her eyes, and the dam breaks upon the heiress’ next words.

“I have fallen in love with you.”

Biting her lips, Riko lowers her head and presses her palms against her eyes as hot tears continue to flow.

“It is not my intention to make you cry at all, Riko-san…”

Hearing the concern and smidgen of doubt in Dia’s voice, Riko frantically shakes her head and tries to reign in her sobs. “I-I’m just… so… so very happy… Dia-san, I-I…a-accept it...”

“I am glad,” Dia whispers. “Allow me then.”

With her eyesight still blurred by tears, she could only sense Dia moving behind her and gently brushing apart her hair. Her cool fingers graze along her nape as she carefully clasps the beautiful necklace around her neck. The weight of the jewel rests just below her collarbones and above her heart. She could intimately feel Dia’s magic thrumming against her own.

Most of all, she could feel Dia’s love embracing her protectively.

After wiping her eyes one last time, Riko turns around and demurely smiles up at Dia. She doesn’t know who leans in first, but the kiss feels so right, as if a missing part of her is finally complete.

Is it possible to be this blissful?

“Dia-san, I love you.”

[athyrabunlord]

LLSHP 10 - Moonstruck

Arc1: [Chapter 1] [Chapter 2] [Chapter 3] [Chapter 4] [Chapter 5] [Chapter 6] [Chapter 7]

Arc2: [Chapter 8] [Chapter 9] [Chapter 10] [Chapter 11] [Chapter 12] [Chapter 13] [Chapter 14]

Arc3: [Chapter 15] [Chapter 16] [Chapter 17] [Chapter 18 - sanguinem pudicitia (TBD)]

Interludes: [Carbonado (1)] [Carbonado (2)] [Of Feathers and Wind] [Delphinus (teaser blip)]

[Brief note about School Term] [other LLSHP AU stuff] [YohaMaRuby concept arts] [ChikaYouRiko concept arts] [KanaDiaMari concept arts] [Hogwarts Staff]

[FFN link] (up until ch14!) [Pixiv Link] [Translated to Chinese by plin2290]

A/N: So much for keeping to my update schedule (ノ°益°)ノ  Welp, this chapter is long and I’m still unhappy with some parts, but at least it’s finished. After the previous fun chapter, we’re back for a different kind of fun~ Hope you’ll enjoy reading! Any feedback is appreciated ('▽^人) Words: 8,351

Yoshiko sighs for the umpteenth time since she entered the Room of Requirement. She should be using her time to rest before the next session, but how in Satan's name is she supposed to relax when there are so many distractions around?

"I still can't believe you never told us, Kanan-chan!"

"I think you're as big as Shiitake, hehe~"

Yoshiko drapes over the couch's backrest to see You and Chika patting and scratching the massive wolf-dog. Somehow, after the excess use of magic for the Yule Ball's performance, Kanan's arm has healed exponentially. Dia theorizes that Kanan's own magic has purged the area of whatever malevolent forces that injured it in the first place.

Therefore, after a long discussion within the research group, a happy Kanan celebrates her recovery by revealing her Animagus form to her childhood friends. While the wolf still walks with a bit of a limp, Riko is confident that the older witch would fully recover by New Years now that they know how to treat the wound.

After observing the Gryffindors a bit more, Yoshiko sighs in resignation and flops back down onto the couch. Truthfully, she is rather disappointed that nothing seems to have changed between You and Chika after the Banquet. They are still as close and touchy with each other as ever, but there aren't any gestures that suggest more. She doesn't consider herself an expert matchmaker or anything, but she would like to do something nice for the duo, especially since they have always been nice to her and have unconditionally decided to help them out without knowing the whole truth or their forgotten past.

"Belly flop!" "Woof!" "Ah no fair, I want to play too!"

At least, they're enjoying themselves. Gryffindors are so weird.

"Is it really wise to let them come here?" Yoshiko shares the same exasperated expression as Dia, who glares at Mari to show that she is still upset about the Acromantula incident. In return, the blonde merely winks before transforming into her Animagus self. The lithe golden cat leaps for the human-wolf pile, purring when they fuss over her.

"Well, now that they are part of our group… again, I suppose, I see no harm in letting them know as many secrets as we can. The Room of Requirement at least ensures what happens here stays here." Dia is polishing her saber sword, clearly used to her two best friends' childish behavior.

Upon Riko and Dia's insistence, the knowledge of Yoshiko's connection to the black feathers is kept from Chika, You and Ruby. Therefore, whenever the nine of them are together, they just help each other study and practice more advanced magic, while researches and experiments only take place when those three witches are not present.

"So… what is your Animagi form, Dia-san? I'm sure you've successfully-" Yoshiko trails off when Dia visibly twitches at the question. She warily glances at the older Slytherin's unsheathed sword and mumbles. "Nevermind, it must be top-secret huh?"

"Indeed it is," Dia says stiffly. An awkward silence falls upon them for a while, making Yoshiko wonder if she's stepped on a landmine. She exhales in relief when the door opens and reveals Riko, Hanamaru and Ruby.

Even though it's Christmas break and Hogwarts is mostly empty save for some of the staff and students who decided to stay, they agree to keep up an appearance to ensure that the location of the Room of Requirement remains a secret. They would take turns to go study at the library, and of course Hanamaru volunteers every time.

Yoshiko rolls her eyes as her two Hufflepuff friends squeal at the sight of canine-Kanan, who greets them with a wet lick and wagging tail. She then rolls over and allows the younger girls to rub her belly and jaw. Really, it's hard to imagine that this crooning, oversized wolf is the so-called Grim that unintentionally terrorized them on the first day of school.

Hanamaru looks over to Yoshiko and smiles bashfully when their eyes meet, giving her a little wave. She uncontrollably returns a lopsided grin and waves back too.

Dia raises an eyebrow at this. "Is there something going on-?"

"N-Nothing! I mean, y-yes! Wait, no, there isn't anything, but there's also something-" Yoshiko doesn't know why, but she feels oddly defensive and guilty under the Head Girl's sharp gaze.

"Nothing you should concern yourself about, Dia~" Mari suddenly pops up behind Yoshiko and ruffles her hair. "The power of Christmas is shiny, making flowers bloom, ne? Just make sure yours keep blossoming~"

For some reason, Dia looks away and… is that a blush? The Head Girl is blushing?

Mari cheerfully elaborates. "You're not the only one who enjoyed the Banquet, Yoshiko-chan~"

"What does that mean-"

Dia coughs loudly and announces that break time is over. In spite of the slip in composure, Dia still manages to command everyone's attention and split them up for specialized training. You and Chika have taken it upon themselves to help the First-Years improve on areas they struggle with and, this time, they decide to work on Hanamaru's agility. Ruby, though nervous, requests that her sister spar with her. The last time they dueled, Dia did not go soft on her little sister, and Ruby was pretty much thrown about and struck by countless spells, yet the pair appear quite happy at being able to train together. Dia does look proud of Ruby's determination, and soon the sisters begin to exchange spells in the center arena.

Yoshiko knows better than to get in the middle of that. She glances at Riko, who has gone to the cauldrons and is checking up on Kanan's arm.

"That just leaves you with me, hmm?"

"Oh joy."

Frankly, Yoshiko dislikes her one-on-one Occlumency lessons with Mari. Dia has explained countless times of its importance, that an enemy skilled in Legilimency can easily probe through your mind for information, influence your emotions or actions. Therefore, one must train their mental barriers through the practice of Occlumency.

Naturally, the three Fifth-Years and Riko are already well-trained. Both Yoshiko and Hanamaru are required to learn it as much as they could, while the remaining three do not need to focus on this subject as they are not privy to this group's sensitive information.

As it turns out, Hanamaru must be a natural Occlumens, since Mari is unable to access her thoughts and the Ravenclaw is their best Legilimens. Yoshiko, on the other hand, apparently has the mental defense of a 'pile of dirt', or so Mari says.

"Empty out your mind, Yoshiko-chan, I know you do have great willpower," the blonde folds her arms, appearing oddly like an older sister as she chastises and encourages her at the same time.

"I am trying! It's easier said than done." Yoshiko grits her teeth. As if she wants the irritating witch to know about her secrets!

"Daww, you think I'm irritating? I'm hurt~"

"Ack! Stop reading my mind so easily!"

"I'm not even actively using Legilimency on you. You're -that- transparent, Yoshiko-chan."

Unlike Dia, whose Leglimency is piercing like a sword and almost triggered Yoshiko to go berserk the last time they practiced, Mari's magic feels more like caramel. It doesn't feel intrusive yet it adheres to her thoughts in a way that coaxes her to relax and thus become more vulnerable.

"I understand Hanamaru-chan's lips are so soft you can't help but keep thinking about the kiss but-"

"Aaaaahhhhh! Stop it stop it stop it!" Yoshiko slaps both her hands on Mari's mouth, feeling as if her face would explode from all the heat that rushes up her neck. Thankfully, You and Chika are keeping Hanamaru quite occupied to have overheard that.

Mari slips out of her grasp in her cat form, saunters a few steps before transforming back. "Doesn't seem like this is going to work until we work out your issues first, Yoshiko-chan. Perhaps I should teach you other things instead hmm? What do you say, shiny Onee-san is more than happy to share her tricks-"

"No thank you." Judging by the lecherous way Mari grins, Yoshiko really doesn't want to learn anything unnecessary from her.

"Why not? You'll thank me one day, and I'm sure Hanamaru-chan would appreciate it too when-"

"I'm going to go work on Potions!" Yoshiko exclaims and sprints to where Riko and Kanan are.

The Gryffindor chuckles rather apologetically at her disgruntled mood. "I feel fine, Riko-chan. I should go exercise a bit to see how much mobility my arm has regained. I'll take care of Mari."

"Yeah! Keep her away from me," Yoshiko growls, fanning at her red face. She glares at Kanan and Mari until the pair are well out of reach on the other side of the room, where they begin to duel. Huffing, she turns to face Riko, only to find her attention elsewhere even as she rhythmically stirs the pot of Potion she is brewing.

"Lily, are you okay?"

"H-Huh? Why would you ask?" Riko blinks out of her trance, appearing rather sheepish as she adds in a bit more ingredient into the cauldron.

"Oh, um, we haven't had much chance to talk lately, but I'm worried about… well, are you okay about You-san and Chika-san being here?" There, Yoshiko is pleased that she finally got this off of her chest. Plenty of things have happened to keep them all distracted, and Riko is good at keeping a tough front even if something gnaws at her mind. Yoshiko knows that better than anyone, for she does the same. As kindred spirits, she understands that all the negative feelings kept at bay during the day would ache at night, when she's alone.

"Thank you for being worried about me, Yocchan, but really I'm fine," Riko relaxes and smiles at her gently. "Truthfully, back then, I was rather upset that Mari-san would involve Chika-chan and You-chan again after knowing what happened, but now I see why she did it. I really miss them. We used to do everything together, so at least this way, I can still..."

Her eyes shimmer with a myriad of emotions, of guilt and sadness, but the way she smiles at her best friends is indisputable as well.

"Heh, yeah, you do seem happier this way. I'm glad they're here too. I wouldn't trade our group of nine for anything," Yoshiko grins, and gives Hanamaru another giddy wave when the latter happens to look this way. She probably looks silly right now but she doesn't mind, knowing the older girl wouldn't tease her like a certain blonde would.

"I agree. This is the happiest I've felt since… well, I'm very grateful, to all of you."

"Just remember, the great Yohane is always here for all of her little demons. If you need someone to talk to, I'm here!"

Yoshiko straightens in her seat and is extra exuberant as Riko resumes the Potion lesson. They have yet to resolve the cauldron-explosion problem, but at least she's grasped the theoretical concepts well enough. After jotting down some notes, she furrows her brows and tries to confirm some of the steps with her tutor. When she receives no response, she glances at the Ravenclaw and notices her attention has drifted once again. This time, she follows Riko's line of gaze and tilts her head in wonder.

"Lily, why do you keep staring at Dia-san?"

Riko almost drops the ladle into the cauldron. "I-It's nothing! Um, as I was saying, Yocchan, the Murtlap Essence is particularly useful for treating painful cuts…"

Yoshiko is taken aback by Riko's loss of composure. Perhaps Mari isn't joking, maybe something did happen between Dia and Riko? Yoshiko has no idea what happened after she left the Great Hall, as she was too blissful in spending the rest of the night watching the stars holding Hanamaru's hands and exchanging little kisses with her girlfriend.

Ku ku ku, girlfriend indeed.

Her lips involuntarily form another lopsided grin and she resists the urge to giggle like a silly mortal. Even now, she is still trying to wrap her mind around the fact that the brunette is her girlfriend. Praise Satan, she the unfortunate fallen angel finally has a girlfriend! They are both new to having such concept, and they haven't decided whether they want it to be known to the others or not. At least, Yoshiko is certain that Hanamaru is content with what they have. Surely, their relationship should progress at a comfortable pace, little by little, until one day they would enter the next phase which is…

Blushing, Yoshiko shakes her head and unabashedly blames Mari for corrupting her mind. She sends Riko an apologetic look for not paying attention, only to discover the latter to be lost in thoughts as well.

"It appears that no one is focused today." Dia's disapproving tone is directed at Kanan and Mari, who are playing a game of tag in their Animagi form, and at You and Chika, who are playing a game of Exploding Snap while Hanamaru watches on with sparkling eyes. "But at least, try to focus and do something more productive."

When no one stops what they are doing to listen to her, the peeved Slytherin resorts to a more drastic measure. Riko lowers her head in shame, even though the Head Girl isn't looking their way as she scolds those five. Ruby tries to calm down her sister, which appears to be working.

Mari whines as she struggles in the ropes that Dia has conjured. "Come on, it's New Year's Eve, Dia! We deserve to relax too! I wanna go to Hogsmeade with Kanan!"

"Hogsmeade! Oh oh, I wanna go too! We gotta show Ruby-chan Honeydukes," Chika, also bound by ropes, somehow manages to hop back onto her feet and gives Dia puppy eyes. "Please? I heard Coach Kousaka is going there too!"

"We did receive permission from the Professors to go if we want to," You adds, while Kanan explains Hogsmeade to a curious Hanamaru. From what Yoshiko knows, it is an all-wizarding village near the Hogwarts Express' train station, and there are a variety of shops there that rivals the ones in Diagon Alley in popularity.

Overall, it sounds like the perfect place to spend the last day of the year, especially with a girlfriend. Yoshiko's lips involuntarily curve to a crooked grin for the umpteenth time, and widen even more when she notices Hanamaru's equally excited smile.

Dia, however, is as adamant as her name. "Show me that we have accomplished something today, and I will consider it. How about the Patronus Charm?"

Yoshiko groans aloud. "That's not fair, you know I can't do it!"

"Exactly," the Head Girl's voice is dangerously low. "That is why you need to practice. The rest of you, go catch Mari-san and you will be pardoned."

"What?!" The blonde hastily shifts to her cat form, hackles rising, and sprints away just as You and Chika lunge for her. Kanan, also in her Animagi form, barks rather mischievously and runs after them. Riko appears hesitant, and smiles in relief when Dia subtly nods at her.

Dia then faces Yoshiko again. "Well, what are you waiting for? Come. Show me how much progress you have made."

Though grumbling, she obediently joins her friends in the arena. It was Hanamaru's idea to learn the Patronus Charm in the first place, as she is determined to conquer her fear, and the others agree that it is good idea to learn such a powerful defense magic.

"Hey, how are you today?" As soon as the words leave her mouth, Yoshiko feels like jumping into a hole. That's the stupidest opening line ever! Even though Hanamaru is her girlfriend now, it doesn't mean she has to act any different, does she?

Fortunately, the brunette just finds her antics amusing. "I'm good, Yoshiko-chan. Riko-san showed me where to find some of the rarer books in the library so I had a very productive day zura."

Hanamaru's smile makes her smile too. Yoshiko strikes a pose and subtly scoots closer so that their arms are touching. "Me too. Now let's get this Patronus task over with so we can go have fun at Hogsmeade!"

Her heart speeds up a little when Hanamaru reaches for her hand and holds it tight. This new relationship status is really nice, she grins dazedly, but then something catches her attention and makes her frown.

"Hey, where are you going, Ruby?"

"Piki?" The pigtailed girl pauses and sheepishly twiddles her thumbs. "Oh I just thought, I'll go practice over there and-"

"Ruby-chan." Hanamaru's voice is uncharacteristically firm. "We've already talked about this."

Yoshiko glances between the two Hufflepuffs and understands the situation right away. "Ah, come on Ruby, I appreciate you wanting to give me and Zuramaru space but that's not how we work."

The day after the Banquet, Yoshiko and Hanamaru had agreed to tell Ruby everything about their relationship. The last thing they wanted is for Ruby to feel left out, and so they continue to act as they always have. Yoshiko did entertain the idea of going on dates with Hanamaru, but they already are, sort of, and dates aren't urgent.

She quite enjoys spending the holiday with her close friends, and is in no hurry to do those couple-y stuff she's seen on TV. Hanamaru wants to take things slow too, comfortable and content with what they've done so far, thus that takes the pressure off of Yoshiko too.

"Don't ever think you're a… um," Hanamaru purses her lips as if trying to recall what she's read about in novels. "Third wheel-? I think that's what the term is zura. Ruby-chan, it won't be us if you're not with us."

"Yeah, it's not like Zuramaru and I will suddenly start making out in front of you or anything," Yoshiko chuckles, though her ears redden a moment later as that very image fills her mind. Her girlfriend kicks her shin, light enough not to hurt but still forceful enough to make her shut up.

Ruby giggles at them. "O-Okay. Just let me know when you do need to be alone." She links their arms together and giggles again. "Hehe, I'm just so happy for you two! I thought it'll take longer to happen, since Yoshiko-chan is… well, and Hanamaru-chan can be headstrong too."

"Oi what's that supposed to mean?" "Aha, Ruby-chan, that earns a Tickle Jinx zura~!"

Before they could start fooling around, Dia coughs loudly. Yoshiko and Hanamaru cringe under the Head Girl's frown, forgetting they actually have spectators. Ruby, in an attempt to placate her irritated sister, casts the Patronus Charm.

So far, among the trio, only Ruby is able to produce a thin, silver shield. Given enough practice, she should be able to summon a corporeal one like Kanan and Mari (and surely Dia too). Hanamaru tries very hard but her innate fear prevents her from casting the spell properly. Yoshiko is frustrated by the translucent string that shoots off from her wand whenever she tries as well.

This is a very advanced and complex magic, especially for First-Years like them. Therefore, Dia only requires them to be able to produce incorporeal ones like Ruby's, and that's exactly what Yoshiko wants to achieve.

"Dia-san! Are we free now?"

The three Gryffindors have successfully captured Mari, who is held tightly in Kanan's arms while Chika and You have their wands pointed at the hissing feline.

"Very well. What do you have to say for yourself then, Mari-san?"

The blonde Ravenclaw pouts at her friend. "I'll help the girls on their Patronus Charm, happy?" She glances over the trio, nodding at Ruby's attempts but frowning at Hanamaru's pale face.

"Maybe it's best not to push her? Whatever her encounter with the Dementor is preventing her from casting it properly."

Dia nods slowly and places a hand on the brunette. "Indeed. This is fine for today, Hanamaru-san. We shall try again at a later time. Your Shield Charm is quite powerful, so do not fret."

Though disappointed, Hanamaru smiles gratefully at the encouragement. Yoshiko stands up a bit straighter and tries the Patronus Charm again, groaning at the pathetic string that resembles a spider web drooping from her wand.

"Think happy thoughts. See? Shiny~!" Mari easily conjures up her corporeal Patronus and smirks. "Any happy thoughts would work. You know what I'm talking about."

"Can't you offer any good advice?" Yoshiko scowls at the sparkling seal, wondering for the umpteenth time why the Ravenclaw's Patronus looks slightly different every single time.

"I am being serious here," Mari schools in her expression, her voice lowering to a soft, encouraging lilt. "The Charm draws energy from positive memories, the happier the better. Try it."

Yoshiko blushes as she recalls the kisses again. "I'll try it. In private. I feel like there are too many eyes watching me, I can't concentrate."

"Fair enough. But how should we impress Dia enough to go to Hogsmeade?"

As if to answer Mari's question, You salutes and calls out. "Expecto Patronum!"

Her wand conjures a fluffy-looking horned owl, its form shimmering from the power of the spellcaster's magic. Chika high-fives her friend and does the same, summoning a massive tiger with scruffy fur around its head.

Kanan whistles. "Oho, I didn't know you two could conjure corporeal Patronus."

"Hehe, you're not the only ones who have secret powers, Miss Animagi~" Chika wraps an arm around You's shoulder. "Though I don't remember when we learned it-?"

"Must be from Riko-chan, we learned a lot from her," You looks puzzled as well, though the duo don't dwell much on it and look at Dia for approval.

The Head Girl does seem impressed. "It is heartening to know that the two of you are well-prepared in defending yourself should such need arise. If I remember correctly, you can conjure it too, Riko-san?"

The Ravenclaw nods and casts the spell as well. A bright rabbit hops off of the tip of her wand and approaches Dia, nestling beside her leg. Riko blinks at her bunny Patronus as if she wasn't expecting it to take such form. Dia raises an eyebrow at the corporeal Charm, her expression slowly changing from mild confusion to shock when some sort of realization dawns upon her.

Riko must have arrived at a similar conclusion too, for her cheeks become so red that it matches her hair. She looks ready to bolt in mortification while Mari and even Kanan begin to snicker.

"What's the big deal?" Yoshiko curiously stares at the harmless rabbit. "I mean, sure it's a small creature, but that doesn't matter as long as the spell is strong."

Mari's eyes are twinkling in mirth. "Rikocchi's Patronus used to be a cat. It is very rare for a Patronus to change form, but when it does, it is because of an emotional change which, in this case, is-"

Her mouth is then audibly clamped shut by Riko's hands, similarly to what Yoshiko did earlier. While Yoshiko still has no idea what's going on, she finds Riko's panicky, blushing face quite relatable.

Chuckling, Kanan pats Dia on the back as if to congratulate her. "So, Hogsmeade? I think we've all worked hard enough."

Dia blinks out of her daze, swallows hard and mutters. "I suppose we have, yes."

Though still confused, Yoshiko excitedly pulls Hanamaru into her arms while Ruby is smothered by the cheering Chika and You.

Hogsmeade it is!

0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0

"Mirai zura~"

"That's like the eighth time you've said that today," Yoshiko smirks when Hanamaru playfully punches her arm as expected and proceeds to ignore her. She doesn't mind, as long as her girlfriend continues to hold hands with her.

"So what did you end up getting zura?"

Ruby looks quite proud of her collection, opening the bag to show her friends the various chocoballs, toffees nougats and many more. Yoshiko's always knew that Ruby likes sweets, but that amount would last them well past the second term!

Then again, Honeydukes truly is the most fantastic sweet shop she's ever been to. In fact, all the places she's visited here at Hogsmeade are amazing enough that she almost wants to utter her girlfriend's catchphrase.

"So what now? I think we have a bit more time before we have to meet up at the Three Broomsticks."

Hanamaru immediately replies. "Tomes and Scrolls-"

"Veto. I said we have a bit more time, not an entire day- no, you can't use those eyes, that's against the rules!" Yoshiko hastily turns away, knowing that the longer she stares at her girlfriend's sparkling puppy eyes, the more likely she would cave.

Ruby giggles suddenly, which makes the couple share confused looks. "You two still act the same, even though you're together now."

It is one thing to call Hanamaru her girlfriend in her mind, another to hear her friend state their relationship aloud. Shuffling, Yoshiko tried to appear nonchalant. "W-Well, I'll have you know, I turn a blind eye to Zuramaru's eating habits when she really convinces me to."

Hanamaru rolls her eyes at the taller girl before pulling Ruby close, making sure their arms are comfortably linked. "We're both really new to this so Yoshiko-chan and I agree to just be ourselves. I mean, if she suddenly starts giving me flowers or be extra sweet, that would be creepy zura."

Yoshiko deadpans. Hanamaru sticks out her tongue. Ruby's still giggling.

True to their discussion at the Room of Requirement, the trio see no reason to change how they are around one another.

After a while, Ruby says quietly. "But, surely, you'd want to spend some time together in privacy right? Hogsmeade is a nice place for couples..."

In response to that, Hanamaru pouts and squeezes their entwined arms, while Yoshiko tugs at those signature pigtails. "Piki?"

"Haven't we talked about this already? Stop thinking you're intruding on us or something. You gotta get that kind of mindset out of your head."

"Unless...you don't like spending time with us, Ruby-chan?"

"Eh? No, that's not what I meant-"

"Then it's decided. You're stuck with us and that's the end of the discussion, heh."

Just for good measure, Yoshiko ruffles the shorter girl's hair, which prompts Hanamaru to chide her as usual. Yup, their trio dynamic is operating normally just fine.

"Anyways, back to topic, where should we go? As much as I like Quidditch, I'm not going anywhere near Spintwitches Sporting Needs again…"

After a long discussion back at Hogwarts, the nine witches have decided to split up not just to maintain their distance in public but also so it does not draw attention, moving in a big group. As soon as they set foot in Hogsmeade however, Kanan and Mari practically pushed Dia and Riko towards Madam Puddifoot's Tea Shop and told the rest that they would be patrolling the area, so they should relax and have fun.

The trio had a great time in Chika and You's company, for the duo are familiar with the area, in particularly Zonko's Joke Shop. When they got to the Quidditch Shop though, the duo became so engrossed that the three younger witches unanimously agreed to let them be while they go explore other places.

Ruby smiles fondly at the thought of the two lovable Gryffindors. "They really love Quidditch don't they?"

"Yeah, and it's good to let them take mind off of things anyways," Yoshiko knows that the duo have already given Riko their blessing, much to the latter's embarrassment, but certainly even the dunderheads need time to recover. Besides, she is determined to set up Chika and You, after seeing how her plan almost worked at the Christmas Banquet.

She is a Slytherin after all, clever and sneaky!

"I still want to go to Tome and Scrolls but, you're right, we probably don't have enough time zura…"

A part of Yoshiko really wants to go as well, not because she likes books but because she adores Hanamaru's expression whenever she reads. Next time, she vows inwardly. Looking around, she takes notice of the sparse Hogsmeade residents and visitors walking down the street since most people have gone inside for warmth. They could just head to Hogsmeade and wait for the others, especially since she's heard rumors of the delicious Butterbeer served there, but Yoshiko feels like there should be one last stop before they call it a day.

Yoshiko perks up in excitement when she spots something. "How about that? An abandoned building, haunted maybe? That looks like just the place for the great fallen angel! Let's go check it out!"

Down the path, somewhere in the distance, is a lonely building that sticks out like a sore thumb in a flat field full of snow and nothing else. The surrounding barren forest is a good distance away, as if giving this dilapidated house a wide berth.

The two Hufflepuffs appear hesitant but intrigued as well.

"Come on, we'll go take a closer look, and by the time we get back here, we can just head straight for the Three Broomsticks and still be on time!"

Convinced, Hanamaru and Ruby follow after Yoshiko, who exuberantly runs ahead towards the sinister-looking shack. There are many eerie locations in Hogwarts, though she's too fascinated by the magic to feel the 'scary vibe', and she hasn't ever personally met any of the ghosts. The most frightening experiences she had in the magical world are the night with the supposed Grim, and the battle against the Acromantula colony, but those had been circumstantial and not exactly 'test of courage' material.

This ominous building though! It totally meets her standards and, with proper modification, it could even serve as a demonic den for her legions!

"Yoshiko-chan! Wait for us-!"

"Y-You shouldn't be going over the fence! It m-must've been locked for a reason-!"

She could barely hear Hanamaru and Ruby's calls. She's so caught up on creating her ideal hideout that she's levitated herself over the barbed wire and fence before she realizes it. Her mind blanks out until one sole purpose remains. She needs to get to that shack as soon as possible. She must answer its calls-

"Ack!"

Her charmed scarf activates and successfully trips her, making her tumble and roll forward several times before faceplanting in the icy cold snow.

"Yoshiko-chan!"

She shakes her head in bewilderment, adrenaline still high in her veins, and blinks up at her worried friends. Hanamaru quickly checks her over while Ruby has her wand out as she scans the perimeter. They are half way between the Shack and the fence, and certainly way too far to call for anyone's attention. The winter sky is forebodingly dark, illuminated only by the moon and faint glow of Hogsmeade's shops in the distance.

Yoshiko breathes heavily and shakes her head one more time, her mind now calm enough to access her situation. It's been months since this last happened, and it always had something to do with the Forbidden Forest. Yet this time, the compelling force comes directly from that Shack.

"We need to contact the others," Hanamaru says firmly.

"I-I've already sent a message," Ruby adds, holding out the gold-rimmed piece of parchment that she's scribbled on. Before they came to Hogsmeade, Dia had given each of them the parchment that she's placed the Protean Charm upon. This spell enables them to communicate with one another in case of emergency.

"Thank you," Yoshiko whispers in a shaky tone, smiling when Hanamaru huddles closer and Ruby pats her shoulder. She's more freaked out than she would ever admit, so she's very thankful for their company.

They wait there in the snow, alert and nervous. They are too wary to move from their spot in case something happens, and they trust that the older witches would arrive soon enough. To their surprise, Riko comes towards them from the west side of the barren forest while Dia could be seen heading towards the Shack. The Ravenclaw's expression is full of worry and consternation as she crouches besides the trio.

Seeing their questioning gaze, she elaborates as she gestures at the direction she came from. "Dia-san and I were over there - there was a hut within the woods where… Chika-chan, You-chan and I once used it as a hideout, for our research."

Yoshiko and Hanamaru shares an understanding glance, while Ruby furrows her brows.

"I… I haven't gone back there since," Riko clears her throat and struggles to maintain a placid tone. "Well, nothing's changed in that place since then. The Hut is still fully Warded from intruders, but now that this happened, perhaps there is a connection to the Shack even though it's far enough from it…"

"You mean, whatever makes me blank out every time, is connected to-?" Yoshiko feels dismay twisting in her stomach. She's always guessed it, that the peculiarity she experiences has something to do with Riko's quill and those feathers. Now that her speculation is confirmed, memories of that day with the black tendrils begin to surface again and it's taking all of her willpower to keep the panic at bay.

"Most likely," Riko replies grimly as she leads the trio away from the Shack. "We need to go back to Hogsmeade to meet up with Chika-chan and You-chan. Dia-san says she's going to investigate the Shack - Kanan-san and Mari-san messaged that they are on their way so-"

They pause when a howl echoes through the desolate clearing.

It is a savage, heart-piercing sound.

"T-That's not Kanan-san," Riko turns around just in time to see flashes of spells around the Shack. "Dia-san!"

The Kurosawa heiress has her saber out, slashing and deflecting Curses while returning fire towards the three cloaked figures converging around her. Four more silhouettes trudge out of the Shack, their movements jarring and awkward as they slowly move towards the fight.

"Onee-chan! We need to help her!" Ruby is ready to sprint to her sister's aid if it weren't for Riko's firm grip on her shoulder.

"I-I can't… I need to keep you safe, all three of you, that's what Dia-san would have wanted." Even as she says that, the Ravenclaw is also looking at the vicious fight with a conflicted frown. She conjures up her Patronus and sends the silver rabbit off to the direction of Hogsmeade, most likely to look for Kanan and Mari since they could not alert the authorities due to the Unbreakable Vow.

Ruby and Riko flinch when a particularly powerful Curse shatters Dia's Shield Charm, and it is only due to the heiress' fast reflex that she avoids and deflects the following onslaught of Jinxes. Yoshiko hasn't even realized her hand is shaking, but she certainly can feel Hanamaru's trembling form against her.

"We need to go, there's no way we can just stay here while Dia-san is in trouble!" Yoshiko swallows nervously. "The scarf will activate if anything happens again, Lily, so I'll be fine. We'll be okay, and we'll help however we can."

Riko nods grimly and flicks her wand before tapping the trio on each of their heads. Yoshiko blinks at the odd sensation of an egg cracking and something travelling down her body. She glances down at her hands only to find thin air. Likewise, her friends have also been rendered invisible from the Disillusionment Charm.

"You must stay out of range, and do not draw their attention unless you are absolutely certain you will not be discovered. Promise me, please," Riko glances at the direction where her Patronus had gone off, biting her lips in trepidation. "Kanan-san and Mari-san haven't responded since their last message, so there's a chance they may be caught up in a fight as well, so we'll need to hold off those attackers as long as we could."

Upon hearing verbal agreement, Riko then runs towards the Shack, firing Stunners as she goes. The trio blindly reach for each other before carefully following after her, mindful of the footprints left in the snow.

Once they are close enough, the three girls could feel the air heavy with raw magic, the atmosphere tense enough to stop them in their tracks. Riko is good, very good, yet even she seems to be struggling as those cloaked figures keep her on the defensive with their barrage of Dark Magic. At least, the enemies appear to be leery of Dia's sword since they carefully keep their distance as they circle around the two witches.

"I don't think we can help even if we w-wanted to zura," Hanamaru murmurs fearfully, and Yoshiko could feel Ruby nodding in agreement. Truly, this fight is beyond their abilities, a whole different league for mere First-Years like them. Dia was correct in what she said long ago, that the trio is trained to defend themselves but not to attack. As much progress as they have made over the term, as advanced they are compared to their peers, they are still green leaves.

The rapid exchanges of Curses and Charms, the switch between offense and defense, and the sheer repertoire of spells are too much for them. Yoshiko could barely keep track of the enemies' whereabouts, let alone their attacks and how to counter them.

Suddenly, one of those four silhouettes join the fray. The biggest one lunges at Dia, who reacts before the stranger even reaches midway.

"Confringo!"

The blasting Curse hurls the assailant back towards the Shack while creating a shower of burning snow around them. The cloaked figures manage to shield themselves in time but Riko quickly follows up with a powerful Aqua Eructo, forcing them to stay there or else the torrent of water would have smashed them away as well. Twirling and flicking her wand, Riko causes the jet to freeze and locking the three attackers in place.

Before Yoshiko could cheer, another chilling howl immobilizes her in place.

All eyes are on the fallen form against the cracked wall of the Shack, as well as the other three silhouettes whose tattered cloaks have been blown off from the Curse earlier. The four men appear clean-shaven and are dressed respectably, but they all share the same blank expression as they stare at the moon.

Dia's sword is pointed towards them as she stands protectively in front of Riko, whose wand is trained on the three frozen attackers.

The stalemate doesn't last long, for the four men howl at the moon again in unison before a horrific transformation begins to take place. Bones cracking, muscles rippling and fur sprouting, four hulking werewolves stand where the humans used to be, with their lips curled to reveal savage fangs and their nails elongated like claws.

Dia gapes at the creatures, her hand lowering just an inch from shock. That minimal movement is enough to signal one of the werewolves to spring into action.

"Dia-san!" Riko fires an Impediment Jinx at the werewolf bulldozing towards them, but the spell merely bounces off of its furry chest. Dia pushes Riko away just before impact and is knocked down by the werewolf's pounce.

The sword, gripped in place by its powerful jaw, is the only thing preventing the creature from biting Dia's throat. As if it isn't chaotic enough already, the remaining three disperse in different directions, one heading towards Hogsmeade, one away from the Shack, and one right towards…

"Shit!" Yoshiko almost stumbles, her shaking hand holding her wand in front of her but no spell comes to mind. Even though they are invisible to any onlookers, the werewolf must be able to smell them. What can they do, if no Jinxes or Hexes seem to work?

While she is paralyzed with fear, Ruby suddenly empties the candy bag onto the snow and Transfigures the pile into rabbits. The werewolf pauses, sniffing curiously between the critters and the spot they are standing. After a tense moment, it decides to chase after the magicked rabbits and disappear into the barren woods.

"Good call, Ruby! Now we need to-"

"Lacarum Inflamarae!" Due to Dia and Riko being occupied, the cloaked assailants are able to free themselves enough to conjure balls of fire to melt the ice holding them in place. Riko had utilized a binding spell to summon ropes and pull the werewolf off of Dia, who quickly slashes at its ankles.

Whimpering in pain, the werewolf collapses in the snow, bleeding and heaving. With one enemy incapacitated, the two witches turn their attention back to the cloaked figures and soon, the nerve-wrecking spell-exchanges resume. However, Dia and Riko are obviously unsettled and worn out by the fight, distracted by the possibility of those other loose werewolves returning for them.

"It doesn't seem like they've noticed us yet, what should we do now?" Yoshiko really wants to help, but she knows that they would only burden the older girls.

"The village zura! One of t-those werewolves went that way, right? Surely the Aurors would be summoned and- Protego!"

Hanamaru's yelp is all the warning they have when something slams into the Shield Charm and against them. The three girl collide into one another and fall onto the snow in a heap of tangled limbs. The werewolf, disorientated from the collision, is growling at them with its ears perked and shoulders rigid. Yoshiko glances at herself and discovers that the Disillusionment Charm has worn off. They only have seconds to act before the beast pounces.

"Oi, ugly brute! Come get me!" Yoshiko rolls away from her friends and fires a Bombarda at the werewolf's leg, causing a small explosion of snow. The creature seems unaffected by the Charm, but the noise and rubble successfully catch its attention.

As soon as the werewolf turns towards her, she darts for the woods while firing random Jinxes behind her to slow its movement. She could hear Hanamaru and Ruby shouting at her, Dia and Riko's calls, but their voices are covered by the beast's guttural snarls.

The only thing keeping her from freaking out or breaking down in tears is the refusal to lose.

She is Yohane, the great fallen angel! There are still so many mysteries unresolved, so many things she still wants to achieve, she will not meet her end here! Ruby and Hanamaru have already saved her earlier, it's her turn to return the favor!

As she runs past the barren trees and stumbles over the roots concealed by the snow, she's reminded of her encounter with the Acromantula. Inwardly thanking Mari for that horrible but helpful experience, Yoshiko Transfigures the brittle branches into thicker planks, blocking the werewolf just in time before it jumps on her.

Yoshiko struggles to her feet and resumes running, noting how her magic is not as effective due to the fragile state of these trees in comparison to the ones in the Forbidden Forest. She continuously Transfigures the roots, trunks and branches to walls and crossed bars, but the werewolf plows through each and every single obstacle like they are nothing.

I've only made it angrier! Yoshiko bites on her lips hard, using the pain to overcome the panic as she wills her legs to move faster. Thankfully, this chase between predator and prey comes to a stop when she stumbles upon a logger cabin. Running on instincts now, she hurries for the door, unlocking it and locking it with spells.

She leans against the table to catch her breaths while casting Charms to strengthen the walls, knowing that the werewolf would catch up any time. The cabin is expectedly empty and there are only sparse supplies left behind by the former occupant. She glances at the small fireplace, scowling at the lack of kindles or metallic pokes and tongs she could have used.

Her grip on her wand tightens as she listens to any sound. Unnerved by the silence, she is tempted to venture out to check if the werewolf is still set on hunting her. Her efforts would be a waste if it returns to the Shack!

She yelps when the cabin and the ground quake from a powerful slam. The werewolf must be repeatedly bashing against the wall and door, trying to force its way in. Yoshiko is morbidly reminded of the Three Little Pigs, except unlike the fable, she has nowhere to run and her hiding place is not impervious to the big bad wolf's strength.

Just as she fears, the wooden wall begins to fracture in spite of her Charms. She braces herself and pours as much magic as she could to the tip of her wand. A moment later, the salivating werewolf bursts through the cracked wall, its jaws agape as she shouts.

"Reducto!"

The Curse strikes the werewolf square in the chest, but it does not break or disintegrate as it's supposed to. At least, the force of the spell is enough to propel it towards the pillar, snapping it in half. Yoshiko's eyes widen as the roof crumbles down onto the creature and around her. She fumbles for a Shield Charm, but the hastily-cast magic only protects and cushions her from the worst.

Her vision becomes obscured by dust and rubble while broken planks clutter around her. Trapped beneath the demolished cabin, she barely has room to wiggle and the dusty air sends her into a coughing fit.

A vicious growl snaps her out of her dizziness, and her heart almost leaps out of her throat at the sight of the werewolf's fangs an inch away from her face. Likewise, the beast is trapped beneath the planks but unlike her, its limbs are confined and possibly crushed by the fallen roof's weight.

Yoshiko gulps fearfully, noticing the way its crazed yellow orbs follow the minute movement of her throat. She feebly scratches at the ground, attempting to reach her wand that had rolled away during the fall.

"Dammit! W-What am I supposed to do now?" She can't do wandless magic while there's a possibility that the mad beast would break free and end her.

In response, the werewolf snarls again with froth dribbling around its cut lips. Suddenly a scorching fury replaces the terror in her heart, and Yoshiko finds herself screaming at the creature. "You! This is all your fault! If it weren't for you and your buddies, I would be enjoying the most amazing Year's end with my friends! Yet, you attack them, attack me, and for what? What did we ever do to you?"

She's read about Lycanthropy and knows that the werewolf would not be conscious enough to answer her, but that only makes her angrier. "Those cloaked people! They're the same ones who have been attacking Dia-san, aren't they? Just what do you want with us? Is it about Pureblood? Then how about Lily? How about me? Just what the hell are you people!?"

The werewolf growls again, though its lust for blood seems to have diminished. They glare at each other, their distance close enough that Yoshiko could smell its foul breath and see her own reflection in its moon-like eyes.

No, there is one wandless magic I can try. Yoshiko recalls how Mari used it without her wand, or how Dia did the same with her wand but non-verbally. If she focuses enough, surely she can successfully cast the spell with the target so close and vulnerable.

This is her chance to find out more about their attackers.

Schooling her expression to the coldest she could muster, Yoshiko speaks clearly in her husky tone. "Legilimens!"

The world around her seems to melt then and there, the dimensions morphing like smoke and water while black tendrils of magic swirls around the edges of her vision.

She is standing in what seems to be an underground cavern, with water dripping from the high ceiling and countless pipes surrounding her. The stone path is carved with ancient runes, but she has seen enough to recognize the marks of the House of Slytherin. Looking around, she has no trouble picking out the details in spite of the dim lighting. The material of the wall and the ancient feel of the atmosphere can only mean one thing.

This must be somewhere within Hogwarts.

"Will this batch finally work?"

The speaker is wearing a familiar, inconspicuous cloak as those that attacked Dia, so perhaps this is even the same person. Another walks up to her, grabbing her arm and injecting her with a serum. No, not her, but rather the werewolf when he was still in his human form. This is his mind she has delved into after all.

The memory then begins to deteriorate, melting together with other images. She recognizes Hogsmeade, some pub, Dia-san and the Shack, and finally she sees herself.

She could feel the werewolf's intense emotion towards her. She couldn't discern if it is rage, fear or even any negative feeling at all. It just feels so overwhelming that she's starting to empathize with the unfortunate transformed man. The desire to hunt and hurt grows stronger and stronger as she tries to sift through the distorted memories for clues.

The cloaked figures again, blurred images of herself, Dia-san's sword, feathers imbued with magic, cauldrons boiling some sort of concoction, vials of red liquid that are presumably blood, and even more images of herself.

What, I didn't know I'm that important to whatever they are doing. Dread churns in the pit of Yoshiko's stomach, the anger and bravado from earlier fading. They were sort of calling for me, weren't they? Every time I blanked out, they must be nearby, summoning me, baiting me… but why? Why me? I'm just...

For some reason, she is unable to complete that thought. For the first time in her life, she is afraid to consider herself to be a 'fallen angel'.

Black tendrils of magic flood over her senses until she's half-floating and swimming in the quagmire of darkness again, just like that time with Kanan and Hanamaru by the Lake.

Before her consciousness completely fades, she manages to hear one thing clearly.

"She is perfect. We will need to get her first before the Kurosawa heiress."

[athyrabunlord]

The thing I liked the most about your latest chapter for LLSHP AU was all the owls flocking to You as it reminded me of the Animal Set cards where You's an Owl I know this isn't a nice addition you mentioned about how owls liked her way back in the concept arts before those cards were even released I think Its made me curious why is she portrayed as one is it her personality? I'm beginning to wonder if her Animagus is an owl too It could be why she's a good seeker good at flying reflexes & sight

Eheh~ (CV: Saitou Shuka) I was pleasantly surprised when the animal set came out and You was an Owl! I’ve always seen You having affinity with birds (considering who her mom is lmao coughbirbcough).

II find it ironic and meaningful that You, who has bad eyesight, is the all-seeing Owl. You is observant of others, especially those she cares about, yet she doesn’t see herself very clearly, does she? An Owl can turn its head 180 degrees but it can’t truly see itself, can she? I’ll probably ramble pages of Aqours’ respective animal selves and symbolism so I’ll stop here XD!

As for her Animagus, I never finalized hers or others’, since it is advanced and complex magic that only few has achieved. Even in the original HP, few have known Animagi form - Harry himself, though most likely a stag like his father, is never specified to have achieved Animagus form, though understandably given all the events he experienced throughout school. That’s why, in my LLSHP, only KanaDiaMari have done it, and I’ve only given Deputy Headmistress (fox), Charms Professor (panda) and the Transfiguration Professor (owl) known Animagi form.

Both You and Ruby excel at Transfiguration though, so perhaps in later years, they will achieve Animagus forms.