Morning broke gently across Austramore, the first golden rays of sunlight spilling through the tall windows of the dormitories. A palpable buzz of excitement rippled throughout the castle, mingling with the scent of freshly baked bread and sizzling bacon drifting enticingly up from the Great Hall. Today was no ordinary day; it was the long-awaited cosplay event—the one day when students and professors alike would set aside their usual robes and uniforms, embracing characters from wizarding literature and magical history.
In the Thylacea dormitory, Soya sat nervously on the edge of his bed, staring at the costume neatly laid out before him. Beside him, Inkwell stretched lazily, yawning wide enough to reveal her tiny, sharp teeth, before padding curiously toward the strange garments. Soya chuckled softly, gently lifting the kitten into his lap as he examined his chosen outfit. The enchanted cat ears rested lightly beside a sleek, dark jacket, fitted trousers, and soft gloves. He'd felt silly choosing such a costume, yet strangely, there was a quiet excitement buzzing in his chest.
Across the room, Davonte was already energetically pulling on his knightly armor—clumsy and enthusiastic as always. The metallic pieces rattled loudly, echoing in the confined space, drawing amused, albeit slightly irritated glances from Draven. The latter had opted for the sophisticated robes of a former Ministry head, and his expression, while calm, clearly conveyed mild annoyance at Davonte’s noisy preparations.
“Davonte,” Draven remarked dryly, adjusting the cuffs of his long robes meticulously, “must you sound like an entire blacksmith’s workshop every time you move?”
Davonte laughed brightly, the booming sound echoing off the stone walls as he adjusted his armored gauntlets. “A true knight,” he proclaimed dramatically, “is never quiet, my friend! And besides, it sounds far more impressive this way.”
Draven merely raised an eyebrow, a faint smile betraying his amusement despite himself. Soya couldn’t help but grin as well, feeling some of his anxiety slip away with the familiar warmth of his friends’ interactions. Carefully, he placed Inkwell down on the bed again and began pulling on his own costume, the enchanted cat ears twitching slightly as soon as he placed them atop his head. He felt a little foolish, but remembering Sage’s quiet agreement to match him had bolstered his confidence.
As if summoned by Soya’s thoughts, Sage emerged from behind his curtained bed, moving quietly yet deliberately. His cheeks held the slightest hint of a blush, betraying embarrassment he refused to verbally acknowledge. The costume he’d chosen was a surprising combination of cute and fierce—a dark jacket trimmed in silver thread, subtly accented by leather gloves and trousers that matched his cat ears. His normally indifferent expression faltered slightly when his gaze met Soya’s, lingering briefly on the matching ears they both wore.
“Looks good on you,” Soya offered softly, smiling encouragingly.
Sage looked away quickly, muttering quietly under his breath, but the faint blush on his cheeks deepened noticeably. “You too,” he finally murmured, barely audible.
Across the room, Davonte paused dramatically mid-motion, suddenly noticing Sage and Soya’s matching attire. His eyes widened slightly in surprise, clearly not having expected Sage of all people to embrace the whimsical costume so willingly. But rather than make a teasing comment, Davonte simply raised an eyebrow, nodded approvingly, and returned his attention to adjusting his gleaming armor. Even Davonte knew better than to provoke Sage too early in the morning.
The group finished getting ready quietly, each student double-checking their costumes before heading toward the common room. As they descended the stairs, they found Tiana and Kalsei already waiting for them. Tiana stood tall and elegant in her exquisite historical witch costume, the delicate embroidery shimmering gently with subtle enchantments, her poise effortlessly matching the refined dignity of the witch she portrayed. Beside her, Kalsei practically bounced with excitement, his vibrant cat-boy outfit accented by cheerful streaks of teal and pink in his hair, his ears twitching playfully with every eager movement.
“You guys look amazing!” Kalsei called happily, rushing forward to admire everyone's choices. His gaze lingered longest on Sage and Soya, delight clearly written across his expressive features. “Especially you two—adorable doesn’t even begin to describe it!”
Sage’s expression darkened immediately, his mouth opening sharply to respond—but before he could retort, Soya nudged him lightly with an elbow, shooting him a pleading look. Sage scowled briefly, then exhaled slowly, settling for simply rolling his eyes in resigned annoyance. Kalsei beamed obliviously, already turning to fuss over Davonte’s armor.
With everyone finally ready, the small group made their way down to the Great Hall, laughter and cheerful conversation echoing through the castle corridors. Around them, other students dressed in an array of vibrant costumes spilled from dormitories and corridors, filling the hallways with color, excitement, and the gentle hum of joyful anticipation.
Upon reaching the Great Hall, Soya’s eyes widened slightly at the scene before him. Students from every house filled the tables, chattering happily as they admired each other's costumes. Professors seated at the staff table wore elaborate outfits themselves, each embracing their character with varying degrees of enthusiasm. Boromus himself stood at the podium at the head of the hall, grinning broadly beneath a flamboyant wizard hat and brightly embroidered robes.
“Welcome, students!” the headmaster boomed jovially, spreading his arms dramatically to encompass the entire hall. “Today is a celebration—a chance for us to embrace creativity, imagination, and perhaps a little mischief.” His eyes twinkled mischievously as he continued. “Enjoy your breakfast, and most importantly—enjoy yourselves!”
Cheers echoed loudly across the Great Hall, laughter and excited conversation immediately filling the air once more. Soya smiled quietly to himself, feeling a warmth he couldn’t quite explain settle gently in his chest. Despite all the challenges and difficulties he’d faced, moments like these reminded him that Austramore had given him something he’d never known before—a place he truly belonged, surrounded by friends who cared about him deeply.
As they took their seats at the Thylacea table, Tiana leaned in quietly toward Soya, whispering softly enough that only he could hear.
“Thank you for letting me join you for the holidays,” she murmured, her voice sincere and gently grateful. “I’m really looking forward to seeing your home.”
Soya smiled warmly, glancing briefly at his friends, their laughter and warmth filling him with quiet contentment. “You’re always welcome, Tiana,” he replied softly, genuinely happy she would be spending the break with him. “It'll be good to share it with you.”
Together, surrounded by warmth, laughter, and the comforting presence of friends, Soya found himself genuinely looking forward to the day ahead. No matter what lay ahead in the future, he knew moments like these—simple, joyful, and full of hope—were ones he would always treasure.
Breakfast had come and gone amidst laughter, chatter, and the vibrant swirl of costumes. When it finally came time to head to their first class of the day, Potions with Professor Blackthorn, anticipation buzzed through Soya and his friends—though perhaps not entirely for the lesson itself. Word had spread quickly that Boromus had personally selected the costumes for several professors, and none were as eagerly discussed as Professor Seikan Blackthorn’s.
Soya, Davonte, Draven, Tiana, Kalsei, and Sage walked together down the winding stone staircases and candlelit corridors, each quietly speculating on what they might find when they reached the dungeon classroom. Davonte enthusiastically led the way, the heavy metallic clanking of his knight armor echoing through the halls, turning the heads of passing students.
When the group reached the Potions classroom and filed inside, it took every ounce of their collective self-control to keep from openly gaping at the sight that greeted them. There stood Seikan Blackthorn—Potions Master and embodiment of stern, icy authority—dressed in flowing emerald-green robes trimmed with gold and silver embroidery, clearly meant to represent a legendary sorcerer from wizarding lore. To complete the dramatic effect, Boromus had even provided a tall, ornate wizard’s hat that rested atop Seikan’s raven-black hair, looking oddly dignified despite the obvious discomfort reflected in the professor's narrowed eyes.
Professor Blackthorn stood rigidly behind his desk, his expression unreadable, though the faintest twitch at the corner of his mouth betrayed restrained annoyance. He waited silently as the class settled into their seats, his emerald eyes scanning the room with quiet, disciplined intensity.
Davonte elbowed Soya lightly, eyes glittering with suppressed amusement, and whispered softly, "Who knew Professor Blackthorn could pull off the legendary Merlin so well?"
Soya struggled to maintain his composure, biting his lip to keep from laughing aloud. Sage sat beside him, seemingly torn between mortification and quiet amusement at seeing his usually intimidating father in such a flamboyant costume. But no one dared to voice their amusement too openly—not in front of the professor who had long mastered the art of silence and stern gazes.
Once the students had quieted, Seikan cleared his throat sharply, his voice cool, controlled, and carrying a faintly menacing edge that made everyone instantly attentive. "I understand today is a celebration of... creative attire," he began dryly, his gaze sweeping across the room, daring anyone to comment. "But I assure you all, it will not excuse poor concentration or sloppy work. Potions demand precision, costume or not."
A respectful silence fell across the class, broken only by Davonte's muffled chuckle, hastily disguised as a cough when the professor's sharp gaze landed on him.
"Today," Seikan continued, choosing to pointedly ignore Davonte's outburst, "we will be brewing a common sleeping draught—simple enough to make, yet potent enough to warrant caution. It is imperative that you follow my instructions precisely."
With a swift flick of his wand, Seikan revealed the instructions carefully written on the board, each step detailed in his flawless script. He began pacing slowly along the rows of cauldrons, his wizard robes swishing dramatically with each step.
"Begin by carefully crushing your valerian root. Grind it too roughly, and you risk weakening the potion’s potency," he instructed coolly. "Once the valerian root is adequately prepared, add precisely three measures of powdered lavender. Precision is everything. Do not disappoint me."
The students set immediately to work, carefully measuring, grinding, and mixing ingredients, fully aware that beneath the unusual attire, Seikan Blackthorn was still very much himself—unforgiving, exacting, and exceptionally skilled. Even in his flamboyant robes and hat, he commanded respect without uttering a word.
As they worked, Sage leaned subtly toward Soya, his voice barely audible, "I can't decide if my father is going to hex the headmaster or simply die of embarrassment by day's end."
Soya smiled faintly, keeping his eyes fixed firmly on his cauldron as he gently stirred the simmering potion. "My bet's on the hex," he replied softly. "Though honestly, I never imagined Professor Blackthorn could look so... wizardly."
Sage snorted quietly, rolling his eyes in feigned irritation, though his lips twitched slightly upward.
As the lesson progressed, Seikan paced methodically, pausing occasionally to observe, correct, or quietly praise. His gaze fell briefly upon Sage and Soya’s table, noting their work. With the smallest nod of approval, he murmured quietly, "Excellent. Remember to maintain your heat—steady hands produce steady results."
The two boys nodded immediately, focusing even harder on their potions. Beside them, Davonte cursed softly under his breath, glaring down into his own cauldron, which was emitting a disturbingly pungent aroma rather than the subtle sweetness described in the instructions.
Professor Blackthorn stopped abruptly in front of Davonte’s cauldron, his emerald eyes narrowing sharply as he inspected the bubbling liquid. "Mr. Evander," he drawled coldly, his voice dripping with exasperation, "unless you wish to send your peers into a permanent slumber, I suggest you begin again."
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Davonte flushed slightly, quickly nodding. "Yes, Professor," he mumbled, hastily extinguishing the fire beneath his cauldron, much to Sage and Soya’s concealed amusement.
As the lesson slowly drew to a close, a quiet satisfaction settled over the classroom. Most potions shimmered gently with the appropriate pale blue hue, indicating success. Even Davonte’s second attempt yielded an acceptable potion, earning him a grudging nod from Seikan.
As students carefully bottled their sleeping draughts, Seikan stood at the front of the class once more, robes swirling slightly around his feet. He regarded them all with a measured, assessing gaze. "Despite certain... distractions," he began, his voice carrying clear implication, "the majority of you managed to produce adequate results. Remember, potions require discipline. Celebrate all you wish today—but do not lose sight of your responsibilities."
With a brief wave of his hand, he dismissed the class, immediately turning away to adjust the tall wizard’s hat with clear distaste. As they exited the room, Davonte leaned toward Soya, chuckling under his breath.
"I don't know about you, but I’m ready to get to Charms class," Davonte whispered with a grin. "I heard Professor Coorong is dressed as a magical jester, and I’m dying to see it."
Soya laughed quietly, glancing back over his shoulder just once at Professor Blackthorn, who stood rigidly, inspecting his reflection in a small mirror with thinly veiled annoyance. He couldn't help but smile softly—Austramore was certainly proving to be full of surprises.
As the group exited the potions classroom and ascended from the dungeons, laughter and animated conversation filled the corridors, echoing off the stone walls. The buzz from their morning Potions lesson with Professor Blackthorn lingered, but all thoughts quickly turned toward their next class: Charms. Anticipation fluttered in Soya’s chest as they approached Professor Coorong’s classroom, each of them curious to see just how elaborate their famously theatrical professor’s costume would be.
They stepped into the classroom and immediately froze, amusement and awe blending into incredulous grins across each of their faces. Professor Jasper Coorong stood at the front of the room in vibrant, wildly-colored robes of gold, purple, and crimson, each hue shimmering and shifting with every small movement. Tiny silver bells jingled merrily from his sleeves and hem, and perched jauntily upon his head was a feathered jester’s cap, its colors continuously morphing and sparkling under the classroom’s enchanted lights.
“Welcome, students!” Professor Coorong greeted cheerfully, flourishing his wand dramatically with a theatrical bow. “On this wondrous day of whimsy and imagination, why not embrace a bit of playful charm in our studies as well?”
Davonte’s grin widened as he nudged Draven excitedly. “I knew Professor Coorong would deliver,” he whispered eagerly, his eyes sparkling with delight. Draven merely offered a faintly amused look, though even he couldn’t entirely suppress his enjoyment at their professor’s infectious energy.
“Now, gather ’round,” Professor Coorong called joyfully, beckoning them all forward with a sweep of his arm. “Today, we will explore the delightful and practical charm, Avis. Perfect for celebrations, messages, or merely brightening someone's day by conjuring a delightful flock of birds!”
He gave another exuberant flourish of his wand, crying cheerfully, “Avis!” Instantly, a flurry of small, brilliantly colored birds burst forth from the tip of his wand, twittering melodically as they danced through the air around him. The classroom filled with awed murmurs and soft laughter as the tiny birds fluttered overhead, their feathers glittering faintly under the enchanted lights.
Soya smiled broadly, eyes sparkling with delight as one of the tiny birds landed momentarily on his shoulder, chirping pleasantly before taking flight again. Beside him, Kalsei clapped his hands excitedly, his enchanted cat ears twitching with pure excitement. Tiana watched the birds thoughtfully, clearly intrigued, while Sage observed quietly, expressionless as always, though his eyes betrayed a hint of curiosity.
Professor Coorong dismissed his summoned birds with a gentle flick of his wand, and they dissolved into soft sparks of golden light, scattering beautifully into the air. “As you can see,” he declared brightly, “the Avis charm is as enchanting as it is practical. A perfect harmony of magical finesse and creativity.”
“Now, it’s your turn! Remember—clear pronunciation, fluid wand movement, and intent are essential. Let your imaginations guide you!”
The students eagerly raised their wands, murmuring quietly to themselves as they practiced the gentle wand movements. Davonte, predictably, was among the first to enthusiastically attempt the spell, boldly declaring, “Avis!” A small explosion of colorful feathers shot from his wand, showering Sage and Draven, who exchanged looks of exasperation mixed with mild amusement.
Professor Coorong laughed heartily, patting Davonte’s armored shoulder reassuringly. “A valiant attempt, Mr. Evander! Perhaps with slightly less force next time?”
Davonte grinned sheepishly, brushing stray feathers from his armor, while Soya chuckled softly, carefully practicing the precise wand movements Professor Coorong demonstrated.
“Avis,” Soya said gently, and immediately, a delicate trio of birds emerged from the tip of his wand, swirling gracefully upward before settling on his outstretched arm. He blinked, surprised yet pleased, and glanced around to see Professor Coorong beaming proudly at him.
“Marvelous control, Mr. Vareen!” the professor praised brightly. “Precisely executed—just as I expected from you!”
Soya flushed lightly under the attention, but smiled gratefully. Nearby, Sage watched silently, carefully absorbing the interaction. He drew his wand slowly, his expression tight with focus and determination. After quietly murmuring the incantation, a handful of birds fluttered tentatively from his wand tip, flapping hesitantly before quickly dispersing into the air.
Professor Coorong nodded approvingly, clapping gently. “Well done, Mr. Blackthorn. A strong start—confidence will strengthen their forms and their flight.”
Sage’s gaze flickered toward Soya, catching the subtle nod of encouragement he offered. Sage quickly looked away, though a faint, barely noticeable smile tugged at the corners of his mouth.
As the lesson continued, laughter and delighted murmurs filled the room as students refined their charms. Tiana conjured beautifully elegant birds that circled gracefully, Kalsei giggled as his birds playfully danced around his head, and Draven summoned precise, disciplined formations of birds, directing them methodically with quiet satisfaction.
Davonte eventually mastered a softer approach, managing a small flock that flitted gently around him rather than exploding outward. Professor Coorong cheered enthusiastically, praising the class for their efforts and progress. Soon, the air was thick with fluttering wings and cheerful chirping, transforming the classroom into a mesmerizing scene of magical creativity.
As the class began to wind down, Professor Coorong clapped his hands gently, his bells tinkling merrily as he called for their attention. “Truly exceptional work today!” he announced warmly, his eyes bright with pride and excitement. “You’ve all embraced today’s spirit beautifully—remember, imagination and creativity are just as vital as skill and precision when it comes to charms!”
He waved his wand once more, the conjured birds dissolving gently into sparks of vibrant color that danced gracefully toward the ceiling. “You are all dismissed! And remember—carry today’s joy and creativity with you always.”
The students gathered their belongings, still buzzing with excitement from the charms lesson. As they filed out, Professor Coorong stood smiling brightly, his robes and cap sparkling gently in farewell.
As Soya and his friends exited into the hallway, Davonte chuckled to himself, shaking his head. “Today’s classes are turning out to be way more entertaining than I imagined,” he said cheerfully.
Soya smiled softly, nodding in agreement. “It’s certainly memorable.”
Around them, the corridors buzzed happily with the chatter of excited students, their voices filled with laughter and good-natured teasing about costumes and lessons alike. And as they continued onward, anticipation grew for what the rest of the day would bring—each moment offering a new opportunity for surprise, laughter, and perhaps even a little magic they hadn't yet imagined.
As the golden sun sank behind the horizon, painting Austramore’s towers in hues of amber and lavender, excitement and anticipation filled the halls. The earlier hours of classes and laughter had given way to eager whispers and hurried preparations for the evening’s festivities. By the time the students began trickling back into the Great Hall, the room had transformed completely.
Thousands of enchanted candles hovered gracefully in mid-air, bathing the entire hall in warm, flickering light. The ceiling above displayed the deepening night sky, glittering gently with stars, while colorful banners representing each house draped majestically from the walls. Tables lined the edges of the hall, filled with trays of sweets, savory treats, and refreshments. At the far end, a space had been cleared for dancing, where lively magical music already drifted softly through the air, waiting to welcome the students onto the floor.
Soya entered with Davonte, Draven, Tiana, Kalsei, and Sage, their costumes still pristine and vibrant after the day's lessons. Kalsei bounced on his heels in excitement, his cat ears twitching happily, while Davonte adjusted his knightly armor with exaggerated dignity. Tiana stood poised and graceful, her elegant witch’s robes drawing admiring glances, and Draven quietly observed the hall with his usual understated interest.
Sage lingered just behind them, his expression carefully neutral, though he subconsciously reached up to touch the soft cat ears atop his head, still adjusting to the playful costume. Soya glanced back and offered a reassuring smile, earning a subtle, grateful nod from Sage.
Once everyone had gathered, the buzz of conversation dimmed as Boromus Spellchecker stepped forward onto the small platform at the head of the hall. His eccentric robes shimmered softly, embroidered with what appeared to be moving constellations and galaxies—a fitting tribute to the night's celebration of creativity and magic.
“Good evening, students!” he began warmly, his voice carrying gently throughout the Great Hall. His eyes twinkled kindly as he gazed out at the colorful assembly of students, each wearing their chosen costumes with varying levels of pride, embarrassment, or amusement. “I must say, I have seen extraordinary creativity and imagination today—and perhaps even a hint of courage, particularly among certain professors.” He paused, casting a subtle glance toward Professor Blackthorn, who remained composed and stoic at the edge of the gathering, though the smallest sigh escaped him.
Light laughter rippled through the crowd, and Boromus continued, raising his hands slightly to regain quiet. “Tonight is a celebration of more than just costumes and whimsy; it is a celebration of each of you, of your growth, your achievements, and your friendships forged within these halls. As this year draws to a close, we celebrate not only what you have accomplished but also what you will carry with you—memories, lessons, and perhaps even a little magic.”
The hall fell into thoughtful silence as he paused briefly, his voice softer, more reflective. “Tomorrow, the Austramore Express will arrive, carrying many of you home to your families and friends for the holidays. Some will remain, and to those, we promise that Austramore will continue to be a home filled with warmth and camaraderie. For those departing, know that we eagerly await your return. And to all, remember this place will always welcome you, always cherish you—your second home.”
Boromus allowed his words to settle gently, the sincerity evident in every syllable. He clapped his hands together softly, his familiar smile returning. “But enough of my old wizard sentimentality! Tonight is yours—enjoy the feast, enjoy the music, enjoy one another’s company. Let this evening mark the end of another remarkable year and the beginning of many more to come.”
Cheers and applause erupted through the hall, filling it with joy and excitement. Students immediately scattered in all directions—some hurrying toward the sweets and pastries, others grouping excitedly to start dancing, and still others simply drifting to quieter corners to chat and reminisce.
Soya and his friends moved together toward one of the tables, where Davonte promptly began piling sweets onto his plate. Tiana chose a delicate pastry, and Draven quietly surveyed the selection, choosing methodically. Kalsei plucked several colorful candies, beaming excitedly. Sage lingered awkwardly behind, uncertain, until Soya handed him a small tart with a gentle smile.
“Thanks,” Sage murmured, taking it hesitantly.
As they settled in together, chatting comfortably, Davonte spoke up excitedly. “Next year’s going to be even better—I’m calling it now.”
“I will be purchasing some things to encourage our pranks next year.” Saunak grinned, dressed as an anime character that only Soya and a select few would know.
Davonte grinned around a mouth full of sweets. “See! It will definitely be better!”
The group laughed, relaxed and content beneath the warm, magical glow of the candles above.
Across the hall, professors mingled with students, each dressed in their chosen costumes and engaging in conversation. Professor Coorong, still in his brilliantly colored jester’s attire, entertained a delighted group of first-years with flashy spells. Professor Wickham moved gracefully through the hall, her elegant fox Animagus form occasionally flickering into view, delighting students around her.
Seikan Blackthorn, his expression still carefully neutral beneath the elaborate Merlin costume, observed quietly from the edges, though his gaze lingered frequently on his son. Sage met his father’s eyes briefly, offering a small nod, which Seikan silently returned, an acknowledgment filled with understanding and quiet approval.
Soon, the music swelled louder, filling the hall with energetic rhythm. Students took to the dance floor, swirling in vibrant colors and lively steps. Kalsei eagerly pulled Tiana and Davonte onto the floor, laughing as they spun dramatically. Draven and Soya stood near the edges, watching with amused smiles.
Eventually, even Sage found himself reluctantly drawn into the celebration, encouraged by his newfound friends. His carefully guarded expression softened, even brightening occasionally as laughter and music filled the air around him. And for once, even Sage allowed himself to relax, to enjoy being young, and to embrace the friendships he had slowly begun to forge.
As the evening continued, the celebration seemed to blur into a singular, joyous memory. Boromus Spellchecker stood quietly to the side, watching with pride and quiet contentment. The students of Austramore were growing, changing, learning—and through it all, friendships blossomed, magic thrived, and the future, with all its uncertainty and promise, stretched endlessly ahead.
Tonight was theirs—one last celebration, one last joyous evening before summer swept them away.
And, as always, Austramore waited patiently for their return.
