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A Bouquet of New Beginnings

Inspired by many fanfiction writers and the wonderful Hogwarts Legacy, the writer's motivation and hyperfixation had unearthed itself from the crevices of my brain after years of nothing.

A detailed rewrite of fifth-year with liberal brushes of canon divergence for dear Artemis Loreley, the first two chapters are up on AO3 here.

Below is a snippet of the beginning of the first chapter if you'd like to check it out:

The early summer morning’s soft light gently bathed the world below. A cooling breeze passed through, rustling the leaves of the towering English Oaks as the morning dew glistened their beads as they fell upon the forest floor. Songbirds sang their melodious tune as the blue skies peppered with fluffy white clouds stretched to the far horizon.    

Such was the scene as it was interrupted by a loud crack in the air, and now upon the simple forest path stood a wizened, sixty-year-old man in a traveller’s robe of cloth and leather. His greying hair rustled in the wind as he absentmindedly thumbed his late wife’s blue scarf around his neck, his eyes down on the faithful pocket watch on its leather cord. If this were not strange enough, the man proceeded to pull out a dark brown wand, approximately 12 inches in length, and gave a swish. An ethereal silver arrow appeared out of thin air and fluttered for a moment before floating forward upon the path.

Any passerby that came upon this scene by happenstance may accuse the man of witchcraft, and against the laws that dictate the world, they would be correct. For Eleazar Fig was indeed a wizard, and he was on a mission in this obscure corner of Combwell Wood to (hopefully) welcome another into the proverbial fold.

A murder of eleven crows flew high in the baby blue sky, their black, slick flight formation a stark contrast. As his thick-soled boots met twigs with loud crunches taken as he followed the ethereal silver arrow, Professor Fig reflected upon how it came to be that he was here in Combwell Wood on the first day of summer hols.

It had been the summer solstice, when Headmaster Phineas Nigellus Black – a cantankerous, exasperating man that unfortunately was his boss - had sent for him to his office post haste. The school had fallen into a state of commotion as a pulse of unknown magic wracked through the walls, and those fifth years in their O.W.L.s exams especially had been in a sorry state. But did the headmaster pay heed? No, that was an absurd thought. When Professor Fig had begrudgingly trudged up to the Headmaster’s Office, he had been expecting something nonsensical. Instead, he was faced with both Headmaster Black and the Deputy Headmistress, Professor Matilda Weasley – whom everyone knew actually ran the school – with varied degrees of astonishment and puzzlement.

The Quill of Acceptance had written down a new name, a new student’s name, and The Book of Admittance accepted the entry with a firm snap. As a graduate of the Class of ’93, no less. A new fifth-year. Such a thing was so unusual, so unheard of, that it was decided her admittance letter be delivered and entry into the wizarding world be done in person. Headmaster Black had somehow thought – or did not, one could never be certain with that man – that Professor Fig was the man for the job. After promptly shucking Professor Fig into Professor Matilda’s capable hands, the Headmaster returned to his daily task of fixing his moustache.

A Bouquet of New Beginnings Chapter 3: "Sunflower & Dahlia"'

[AO3]

Artemis' month of August until right before the fated carriage ride. Trigger warnings added in author's notes.

Except below:

Professor Fig’s flat was located in Uxbridge, and bordered along a dense forest. The scent of parchment, fire wood, and traces of some sort of spice hung in the air as they directly apparated into the flat. She took in two deep breaths to calm her stomach; it wasn’t so bad this time.

“Follow me, Miss Loreley,” instructed Professor Fig as he stepped in. Artemis noticed a pair of black slippers vaguely her size; she switched her footwear gratefully.

The borrowed room was simple but functional; it was located right across from Professor Fig’s room, and once Artemis’ luggage was placed, they returned to the living area.

The space was comfortable for two people. The walls were a warm cream colour with mahogany-coloured couches, books upon books filled the surrounding shelves and strewn on the floor, and a fireplace crackled with a warm fire. A single photo adorned the mantle – it was a younger Professor Fig with his arm around a striking woman. The photo looped as they both smiled toward each other, then looked at the camera as if remembering they were not alone.

The woman wore the scarf Professor Fig had around his neck.

“That’s Miriam, my wife.”

A Bouquet of New Beginnings: Chapter 4 "Dandelion"

[AO3]

Artemis and Professor Fig are in for a ride of their lives (literally).

Excerpt below (the rest can be read through the AO3 link above!):

“Professor,” started Artemis. “I wanted to thank you for this summer. I’m… I’m very glad that it was you that brought the letter to me last month.”

“That’s quite alright Miss Loreley, there’s no need to be so formal.”

“Artemis is fine, Professor,” said Artemis with a soft smile.

Professor Fig’s eyes widened briefly before his eyes crinkled, a smile on his lips.

“Artemis, then. I feel I should be the one thanking you. It had been a long while since that flat had seen such life. Not to mention a significant improvement in my diet.”

“Apologies, but your pantry was in a sordid state,” remarked Artemis as Professor Fig chuckled.

With a crack through the air, a slightly rotund English gentlemen with round glasses and moustache appeared. The two men exchanged greetings; it was clear this man was George Osric. She politely stood near the door, absentmindedly feeling the wand in her pocket and her legside bag through the skirt fabric.

“Of course. Why don’t we speak en route to Hogwarts? We have a start-of-term feast and a Sorting Ceremony to get to,” suggested Professor Fig.

“Wonderful idea. As long as your young charge here doesn’t mind me tagging along.”

The address of a ‘young charge’ brought Artemis back to the present. The chipper man wiggled his fingers to mimic legs.

“Not at all, sir,” responded Artemis as she gestured toward the door with a polite smile.

The interior of the carriage was plush and comfortable in the same red and gold décor. The air quality was a vast improvement, though she wondered if they could open the window when they reached the countryside. She undid her blouse’s top button.

“Sir, isn’t this road a dead end?” Artemis asked as Professor Fig sat to her right, and Mr. Osric sat across. Professor Fig lifted an eyebrow amused.

“Artemis, the road isn’t limited to the ground now, is it.”

The cart jolted, then the sensation of wheels on cobblestone lessened until it was no more.

They were flying. In a cart with winged thestrals. Her fingers gripped the windowsill until her knuckles were white.

Artemis decided to not think about the possible plummet as the latest décor of London streets and stared out the window. She casted the Sensory Balancing Charm for sanity and to keep her lunch; the men spoke to each other and opted to leave her to gather herself together.

A Bouquet of New Beginnings: Chapter 5 "Lily of the Valley"

[AO3]

The first day of classes at Hogwarts - Charms, Defence Against the Dark Arts, and a bit of Runes. All before going off to Hogsmeade.

Except below (the rest can be read through the AO3 link above!):

Artemis was the sort to rise on her own accord at what some referred to as an unholy hour of five in the morning. This morning, despite the unusual length of the potion-induced slumber, was no different. She spent the next few hours, in the name of calming her nerves, double-checking everything she had.

Artemis was, as Professor Fig aptly put, the prepared sort.

As Professor Weasley had stated, a cross-body school bag appeared by her bedside, filled with notebooks, quills, inkpots and pencils. All of her needed textbooks were stacked in a precariously balanced tower, and a single pewter cauldron teetered on top like an academic Christmas tree. Clad in the Hogwarts uniform with the top button undone, her hair in the milkmaid braid and filled with the armada of white hairpins, and the soft scent of kinmokusei, she unveiled the legside bag’s contents.

Her Potions and Healer’s kits contained every potion, container and ingredient she’d packed up sans those that she’d used. The Wound-Cleansing Potion was mostly still full, the Wiggenpaste hardly used, but she’d need to brew another Calming Draught. A good excuse to buy some decent crocodile heart. Nocturne batted at the offensive purple potion.

The pin-striped pyjamas she’d worn lay upon the bed. Past her apparently had the foresight to include a spare uniform; she gave herself a mental pat on the back. Her grimoire, a tin of kinmokusei solid perfume, her small Japanese dictionary (kanji could be such a headache), the gifts from the Price family, and finally something she didn’t pack.

A set of new, obsidian balanced throwing knives. She flipped the blade, and saw the etched enchantment runes that gleamed bronze at her touch: Pertho & Algiz. Artemis smiled – how fitting. Carefully, she tucked away everything back aside from the spoon. She held the trinket gently in her left palm, her Glamoured scar also now hidden under light wood and whittled buttercup. Like a little piece of her childhood friend was there, in his own way.

The thought alone was enough for her heart to calm enough to start on the small breakfast of toast, apples, and chai. Nocturne devoured a plate of fish next to her as her mind went back to yesterday.

Professor Fig must be grieving for his friend, thought Artemis as she took another sip. Perhaps she’d stop by during lunch to deliver a bouquet, it was the least she could do. The spoon was tucked away into her legside bag then, her robes left folded for now.

“Orchideous.”

Chrysanthemum, marigold, lily of the valley, cypress, mint.

Oranges, yellow, white and bits of herby green.

Nocturne sniffed at the bouquet curiously.

“You can’t eat these, darling,” warned Artemis softly as she held the bouquet in her hand. Her wand hand went to pet Nocturne’s head.

“I believe black velvet would bind that well, Miss Loreley.”

A Bouquet of New Beginnings: Chapter 6 "Harebell"

[AO3]

All roads lead to Hogsmeade :)

Except below (the rest can be read through the AO3 link above!):

“Fantastic. Come on, let’s head on out. Ever been to Hogsmeade?”

Artemis shook her head, and Garreth’s eyes widened like saucers.

“Really? Well, you’re in for a treat then! Loads of fun things to do,” said Garreth as they started down the cobbled path. The smell of pine and oak lingered in the air as other students went to and fro; yellow daffodils honked as little, purple harebells rustled in the wind.

“I’m sorry,” apologised Artemis.

Garreth looked down at her, surprised.

“Huh? Whatever for?”

“You probably had plans with friends, and your aunt threw you guide duty. I appreciate it, of course, but.”

“Oh! Don’t worry about it. Plus, there’s a few things that I wanted to get; you gave me the perfect reason to go,” said Garreth with an affable smile.

“Like Billywig Stings?”

“How did…?”

“You were writing out an ingredients list during Runes. Do you experiment with potions?”

Garreth looked steadily more and more excited.

“I do indeed, bit of a potions prodigy, actually,” started Garreth as his arms spoke just as animatedly. “You see, I think there’s little difference, fundamentally, between brewing a modification to Butterbeer and a Wiggenweld Potion. So, I came up with one this summer. Had a few people test it this morning; needs a bit more work.”

“Butterbeer?”

“Yes I- wait, have you had Butterbeer before?”

Artemis shook her head once more. Garreth looked aghast as his hand came to his chest.

“What do you drink then?”

“Water and tea.”

“You’ve really got to expand your repertoire Snow.”

Artemis let out a small laugh as Garreth shook his head.

“Right, good thing we’re stopping by the Three Broomsticks - can’t believe you’ve never had Butterbeer - after we’re done with your list. Aunt Matilda’d be furious if we didn’t finish what you needed to and get you back for your Sorting. That happening in the Great Hall?”

“No, in the Headmaster’s Office.”

“My sincerest condolences,” said Garreth before he looked up and pointed. “Look!”

As Garreth exclaimed, two winged creatures – heads of eagles and bodies of horses – emerged from the tree lines.

Artemis’ jaw dropped - hippogriffs were real.

A Bouquet of New Beginnings Chapter 7: "English Ivy"

Flower Language: Friendship

[AO3]

Summary:

Artemis' second day of school, and first day as a Slytherin, begins!

Excerpt of the chapter below (the rest can be read through the AO3 link above!)

“So, nobody in our class knows?” Imelda asked as the two of them made their way toward double Herbology.

Artemis shook her head as she passed over a green apple. The tart and crisp fruit filled her mouth as her teeth sunk into the fruit in her right hand. Her eyes roved the greenhouse grounds, mentally ticking off the names of the flora and trees that grew.

Imelda cackled as she took the offered fruit and took a big bite.  

“Oh, this is going to be fun.”

Artemis didn’t understand the remark as they finished up and entered the greenhouse. Most of their classmates were already there, conversing in their separate groups. Imelda bid a farewell before she went off to a potting station, and Artemis barely turned forward before her eyes met the group gathered nearest the venomous tentacula.

“No way!!” Garreth announced as he brazenly pointed a finger.

“Oh, hell yes!” Sebastian exclaimed as he thrusted his palm out toward Leander. “Cough it up.”

“You’ve got to be joking, I thought for certain…” Leander muttered as he fished out some coin from his pocket. Artemis, meanwhile, made her way silently to the open station next to Sebastian.

“Well, the green looks good on you,” commented Natsai with a warm smile. “Though, it would’ve been nice if you had been in Gryffindor.”

Artemis gave her a warm smile in return; it would have been nice to be in the same dorm as Natsai, most definitely. But they had so many classes together, it wouldn’t matter.

“There were bets?” Artemis asked.

“Just those two idiots,” added Ominis, though his back remained turned away from the group. 

A Bouquet of New Beginnings Chapter 8: "Royal Fern"

Flower Language: Fascination

[AO3]

Summary: Artemis continues with her first week of school, and does reconnaissance on a certain library.

Excerpt below the cut (the full chapter can be read through AO3 Link above):

Poppy was, by all impressions, pleasant and quiet. The latter she could relate, so she gathered every ounce of social ability and made to start a conversation, or at the very least, ask if the seat next to her was available. That was the intent, most definitely. Until the brown ball of something in Poppy’s arms, with giant, round, brown eyes jetted out a long, whip-like tongue.

Right at Artemis.

She dodged instinctively with a quick neck tilt; it cracked gloriously loud. Loud enough Poppy turned toward her and gasped.

“Oh! So sorry, Gerald’s a bit excited and, um, are you alright?”

“Yes, yes I’m fine,” mustered Artemis as she looked down at the ball of fur. “Is the seat available?”

“Oh, of course!” Poppy exclaimed, seemingly surprised. “I’m Poppy. Poppy Sweeting.”

“Artemis Loreley, pleasure to meet you.”

“Likewise. Oh, this is Gerald. He’s a puffskein. I think he likes you.”

Artemis and Gerald the Puffskein locked eyes before he let out some sort of croon. She supposed he was cute enough, previous transgression of tongue lashing forgiven as her fingers tickled his – assumedly- chin.

“He seems very nice.”

A Bouquet of New Beginnings Ch. 9: "Blue Gum"

Herb meaning: "Quiet" or "I watch over you"

[AO3]

Summary: We do so love restricted areas, don't we? (Tl;dr - Restricted Section).

A little excerpt from the chapter below the cut, but the full chapter can be read at the link above!

Happy New Year and hope 2024 is fantastic!

“Why do you have the key to Fig’s classroom?” Sebastian asked as Artemis beckoned him in. It’d have been simple enough to, perhaps, speak in the Common Room, but there were too many people clambering. No, better to go where she knew nobody would be listening in.

“He gave it to me before he was conscripted to Headmaster Black’s whims.”

“Poor Fig. Anyways, this is great timing, really.”

“How so?” Artemis asked as the door clicked shut behind her.

“Garreth and Natty may be curious about Rookwood and the troll, but neither of them heard what we did,” said Sebastian as all hints of jovialness dissipated. “Why are Ranrok and Rookwood after you?”

Artemis rubbed her thumb against her hidden scar; the tingle tremored through her forearm. Frankly, she was surprised it’d taken Sebastian this long to ask, though she supposed she'd hardly been alone outside of being in her room.

I trust you.

Professor Fig’s words came back to her as she made her decision.

“We’re not entirely certain,” started Artemis slowly.

“We?”

“Professor Fig and I. There was… before I go on further, you mustn’t tell anyone what I am about to tell you. Not even Ominis,” insisted Artemis. Her mouth tasted bitter at leaving Ominis out, but she agreed in Professor Fig's judgment; the less people that knew right now, the better.

“I won’t, you have my word,” declared Sebastian with a confident smile. “Not Natty or Garreth?”

“I’ll only tell them if they ask. Like you said, they didn’t hear Ranrok and Rookwood talking. Frankly, I’m not sure if knowing or not knowing is safer. Either way, I’ll… let you know, if I do.”

“Fine,” said Sebastian as he flopped into the nearest seat. “Either way, I’m asking. Why are they after you? It isn’t everyday where the leader of the goblin rebellion and the top criminal in the region are both after the same person. Let alone a new student.”

She noted that Sebastian had emphasized with a fair degree of malice the word ‘goblin’.

“We suspect that they’re after something that we retrieved at Gringotts.”

“- Wait. Gringotts? The bank? When were you at Gringotts?”

“After the whole, dragon situation. Professor Fig managed to grab the portkey – ”

“– Wait, a portkey? To Gringotts?” Sebastian repeated back. “I’m not sure I follow.”

Artemis chuckled as she took a seat across from Sebastian. His freckles looked like the amanogawa against the afternoon sun through the window panes.

“Long story short, we picked up something at Gringotts that Ranrok wants. It’s a map of Hogwarts, and it leads into the library. The Restricted Section, to be precise.”

“You can’t be serious.”

Artemis looked at him pointedly; Sebastian gave a long, slow nod.

“Okay, you are serious. So, did you end up going?”

“Not yet. We were going to during independent study, but…”

“Black conscripted Fig for his toils,” finished Sebastian.

Artemis nodded as she let out a small sigh.

“Exactly. Headmaster Black, in some mental gymnastics I fail to understand, concluded that being nearly eaten by a dragon was Professor Fig’s fault, and he’s now en route to London.”

Sebastian rolled his eyes with a shrug.

“That’s Black for you. But I see where this is going – you want to be proactive.”

“Yes, exactly.”

“So, you came to me. I’m honoured.”

“Well, you did say you were clever enough to get into the Restricted Section,” offered Artemis. “I thought perhaps I could ask you for advice on how to get in unseen. Without needing to use excessive invisibility potions.”

She saw Sebastian’s back straighten as his chest puffed ever slightly.

“I am. Though, with your soft treads, you might even do better than me without magic.”

“I doubt that.”

“You’ve nearly given me seven heart attacks the past five days, Artie. Seven. Almost flung that book into the fireplace earlier…” muttered Sebastian as Artemis gave an apologetic smile.

“Sorry about that, truly.”

Sebastian batted the air nonchalantly with an easy smile.

“Whatever. Anyways, if you’re going into the Restricted Section, I’m coming with you. I’ll teach you the trick tonight.”

“Wait but –”

“– Uh-uh, like I’m ever going to pass up an opportunity to go. I do so love getting into places I shouldn’t be,” teased Sebastian. He leaned his cheek into his propped-up palm. “Besides, two heads are better than one.”

Artemis hummed in thought as she met Sebastian’s gaze. The warm chocolate eyes conveyed a clear intent that he would not budge on his decision. It did seem he wanted to go in for his own things, and she needed the assistance.

Artemis nodded in agreement. Sebastian laughed bright; his smile devious as dimpled formed on his freckled cheeks.

“Meet me in Central Hall at eleven, and don’t tell anyone.”

A Bouquet of New Beginnings: Chapter 10 "Witch's Briar"

Summary: As the first week of school comes to an end, Artemis takes the plunge.

Floriography: Witch's Briar - Ferocity

[AO3]

Full chapter can be read through the AO3 Link above, excerpt below!

Despite returning to her room near the witching hour, Artemis awoke at five in the morning per usual. The semi-permanent black circles were even more pronounced as she braided her hair under the soft candlelight; her roommates all fast asleep. The armada of white hairpins were placed for stability, careful to avoid the side-swept bangs both along her forehead and sides that framed her face.

The day began with another self-defence training session at the Quidditch pitch, supervised by Nocturne who was happily chomping on a jerky reward, courtesy of the “for hungry students” cabinet provided by the kitchen house-elves. She even risked knife-throwing into the mannequins at the edges of the field; it was entirely refreshing to see the blades sink into the centre each time.

However, without her garden, greenhouse or rigorous summer training curriculum, after she’d gotten done with the morning shower and had a green apple from the common room, she was at a loss for what to do. Leto hadn’t sent his response yet, she’d finished up her homework and extra assignments from her long waking hours, and Nurse Blainey had stated clearly Monday to discuss volunteering. Her desire to mingle with people was non-existent at the point, but she’d decided already she’d sketch tomorrow. Aimlessly, Artemis wandered the grounds with her legside bag attached, school uniform on sans robe until she reached the greenhouses. A melodious hum carried in the air.

As she poked her head in, she saw the familiar green robes and braided red hair. Professor Garlick was tending to the venomous tentacula that stood proudly within their greenhouse classroom, the smile on her face soft and endearing. Artemis found her vivacious, bubbly demeanour treading a fine line between endearing and exhausting, but right now it leaned toward the former. A thought came to her as she quietly stepped into the space.

“Good morning, Professor Garlick.”

Professor Garlick let out a surprised gasp as she whipped around, braids and all. The older woman had a hand upon her chest, the clippers in the other lowered.

“Goodness! I didn’t hear you enter, Miss Loreley. Good morning to you as well,” greeted Professor Garlick. “It’s rare, having a student come to the greenhouse on a Saturday. Can I help you?”

“I… was wondering if there was anything I could assist you in the greenhouse today.”

Professor Garlick tilted her head. “Assist me? In the greenhouse?”

“Yes,” said Artemis as she felt the dull pain of her thumb against her hidden scar, quelling her nerves for being so forward.

Professor Garlick hummed as her expression softened considerably.

“Miss Loreley, please do be honest with the question I am about to ask. I shan’t be offended with your answer.”

“Professor?”

“How has the first week of my class been for you? And the extra assignment? In terms of challenge.”

Artemis blinked twice.

“It… was easy, Professor,” answered Artemis honestly. Truth be told, the extra assignment regarding puffapods and their uses had been simple, and the plants they’d been covering in class were second nature to her. She had to search for something to do in class so that her hands were kept busy.

“I suspected as much. I’d never seen a student be able to handle three or four different plants in one lesson without sacrificing the care,” remarked Professor Garlick with a smile. “Professors Weasley and Fig had, of course, shared with us your experience, but it’s another to see it entirely.”

Artemis gave a noncommittal hum as her gaze moved to the venomous tentacula.

“In light of that, I’d like to make some adjustments to your extra assignments,” said Professor Garlick.

Artemis looked toward the redhead, who’d gone toward her desk and came back with a bronze key, its handle decorated with a wild rose and briars. At the professor’s insistence, she followed the older woman out of their current greenhouse.

“My predecessor, before he became… indisposed, had a particular way of running the greenhouses,” explained Professor Garlick as they continued down the scenic path. “I’ve taken to reinvigorating and redoing one per year, and of course, one cannot forget maintenance. This one still is yet to be replanted, re… well, let’s just say it needs some love. A bit of an overgrowth”

Their feet stopped in front of one of the darkened greenhouses. Artemis could make out long, thick lines of some sort of overgrowth along the glass panelling.

The professor stuck the key into the lock; even the click sounded thick and rusted.

A bit of an overgrowth was a gross understatement.

A Bouquet of New Beginnings Chapter 11: "Amaryllis"

Floriography - Determination

Summary: Snippets of Artemis' second week of school - the good, the bad, and the nightmare.

[AO3]

Below is an excerpt of the chapter, full chapter can be viewed from the AO3 Link above!

“So, I heard that you’re quite the covert little thief.”

Artemis paused her quill as she lifted her head. Sebastian and Ominis had been doing their assigned Charms essay, and she her extra assignments, in relative silence for the past half hour in the tucked away corner of the library until Ominis broke the silence.

“Oh?” Artemis asked as she pointedly looked at Sebastian. He was the only source that could’ve possibly said anything to Ominis.

Sebastian had the audacity to give an innocent smile.

“Oh indeed. Something about a padlock and a cat? A traipse into the Re-”

“-Oi! Not so loud,” cut in Sebastian. Ominis rolled his eyes as his head tilted back toward her.

“Just hadn’t expected you to be so brazen already with the rules,” paused Ominis. “Well done.”

Artemis had opened her mouth to make a counterargument, only to shut it in the unexpected praise. In contrast, Sebastian’s jaw dropped.

“What? So I get scolded when I go, but Artie gets a compliment? I see how it is.”

Ominis snickered at his friend’s expense.

“She doesn’t barge into our room with erumpent stomps at two in the morning, Sebastian. Though I am curious as to what you could possibly need. You’ve been here less than two weeks.”

Artemis was saved from answering the question as a sneering voice came from her left.

“Well, who do we have here? All alone and – oh, Gaunt. Sallow.”

Their table was at a strange angle that provided blind spots – clearly, Alistair had thought she’d been alone. The change in his tone was drastic, as the moment he saw the two boys his demeanour completely changed.

Sebastian glared daggers and Ominis’ expression was a carefully controlled brand of neutral.

“Avery. Care to finish what you were saying?” Sebastian asked dangerously.

“No, no I think I’ll take my leave,” said Alistair diplomatically.

“Do,” said Ominis as he slowly turned. Alistair’s hand balled into a fist, glared at Artemis once before he stomped away.

“Git,” spat out Sebastian before he turned to Artemis. “How’d you have the misfortune of meeting him?”

“Poppy and I stopped him from pulling on Persephone’s whiskers,” answered Artemis.

“Still petty I see. Can’t believe he’s the same year as us,” sighed Ominis.

“He seemed intimidated.”

“He should. I’d gladly fry him crispy,” huffed Sebastian.

“More my last name than me,” corrected Ominis. He looked like he bit a bitter bug. “Descendant of Salazar Slytherin, my father being friends with the headmaster. The Gaunt name has its… uses, despite the unfortunate run of pureblood mania.”

Slytherin has a bunch of pureblood supremist bigots, not to mention families associated with the Dark Arts. The Malfoys, the Blacks, the Lestranges, the Gaunts.

“The headmaster has friends…?” Artemis asked instead, perplexed at the concept.

Sebastian choked on air as he quickly muffled his laughter into his elbow; Ominis’ shoulders shook as he controlled his. Madam Scribner gave the group a warning glance as she walked by on her patrol.

“Artie, did you hear back from your contact?” Sebastian asked after it was clear the librarian had left their vicinity.

“Contact?” Ominis asked, his head giving a slight jerk.

Artemis looked between Ominis and Sebastian; the brunet nodded as Artemis let out a soft breath.

“They said they’d need to review their contract for the finer details first,” said Artemis. She’d hoped Leto would have responded back before telling Sebastian, but alas. “But, tentatively yes.”

“Really?” Sebastian asked, his eyes brightened. In contrast, Ominis’ features darkened.

“Contract?” Ominis repeated back.

“Artie has a Healer contact in the Ministry. Said she’d reach out regarding Anne.”

“A Healer? Wait, you told her about Anne?”

“I was getting her a –” started Sebastian before he stopped and ran his fingers through his hair. “Never mind, yes, I told Artie about Anne.”

“Why?”

“She’s my sister, I can tell whomever I like.”

Ominis hummed, though his expression didn’t ease as he looked at Artemis.

“Rather generous of you,” said Ominis. His jaw was set.

“Ominis,” Sebastian started, surprised.

Ominis tilted his head toward her; Artemis’ heart sank. She’d not felt this since Chalvey. Palpable mistrust, clear suspicion.  

“So? Why are you helping?”

“Because I want to.”

She managed to keep her voice controlled. It was understandable, why he would be like this.

“That’s it?”

“That’s it.”

Because she didn’t want history to repeat itself… but nobody else needed to know that.

“You’re lying,” retorted Ominis. “What do you gain from this?”

Her throat tightened. Sebastian’s warm chocolate eyes hardened toward his best friend.

“Ominis, stop it -”

“- Is treating someone the way you wanted to be treated so unbelievable?”

The soft, wobbled words were out of her mouth before she could stop herself.  She hadn’t intended to say that, not really.

Her hands moved quickly as both boys were stunned; Ominis’ eyebrows furrowed rather quickly afterward.

“Excuse me,” muttered Artemis as she pulled out her wand, the rest of her items haphazardly in her arms.  She muttered a quick disillusionment.

“Artie, wait!”

“Mr. Sallow! This is the library!”

Madam Scribner’s shrill warning rang loud behind her as she slunk away into the green floo flames.

A Bouquet of New Beginnings Chapter 12: "White Lilac"

Floriography - Youthful Innocence

Summary: Intra Muros.

[AO3]

Below is an excerpt of the chapter, full chapter can be viewed from the AO3 link above!

As she stood next to Richard’s skeleton, Artemis brought out the small, simple jewellery box she’d purchased from her legside bag. A velvet bed lay within, and she let out a small breath. It wasn’t much, but she could at least do this. Slowly, she knelt to the ground with her legs folded under her thighs.

Jewellery box placed at her side, Artemis gently picked up Richard’s skull onto her lap. Her thumbs gently grazed his cheekbones; for four decades his skeleton lay here. Four decades Richard wandered as a pale version of his life, and nobody knew. Even when people could ask, nobody… nobody did. Nobody talked to him.

But she could do this, she could finally bring someone home. Her vision blurred with pools of tears gathered on her waterline. Her throat choked up even as she gave her strange, ghost friend’s bones a soft smile.

“Let’s go home, Richard,” she whispered.

A Bouquet of New Beginnings Chapter 13: "Whitty Pear"

Floriography - Harmony & Prudence

Summary: Just a weekend with some gals and opening trap doors.

[AO3]

Below is an excerpt of the chapter, full chapter can be viewed from the AO3 link above!

Incessant bangs roused Artemis from measly hours of sleep; Nocturne protested within her arms with a meow. With the still lingering tiredness from the earlier adventure, she managed to shuffle herself up and opened the door.

“Imelda?” Artemis mustered out with a still gravelly voice. Imelda, who stood there with both hands on her hips and dressed in Quidditch gear, snorted.

“Glad you remember my name," said Imelda sarcastically. "Didn’t believe it when Violet said your bed curtains were still shut.” 

“Sshh, you’ll wake Nerida and Priscilla,” shushed Artemis as she let the black-haired girl in. Her simple braid slipped off her shoulder and dangled to her mid-back as she shut the door. Nocturne rubbed himself around her ankles as she read the shared clock. Seven-thirty.

“Nerida would sleep through a bloody graphorn charge. And Priscilla isn’t even here; probably off with whichever friend in season. Hurry on and get changed; we’re going to strategize how to bludgeon that motion sickness out of you.”

“That isn’t how motion sickness works,” mumbled Artemis.

They’d never arranged anything, but they’d run into each other every other morning at the pitch. Or rather, Artemis was already there and Imelda came around in her flying gear. Each time, Imelda insisted Artemis fly with her, and without reason to refuse, she obliged.

Imelda shrugged as she sat at the edge of Artemis’ bed, the beryl eyes on the two sets of folded uniforms on the small, plush ottoman.

“Where’s the rest of your clothes?”

“You’re looking at them,” said Artemis as she grabbed one set.

“Seriously?”

“Dragon?”

“Ah, right, forgot about that.”

Artemis lifted an eyebrow; Imelda smirked.

“Anyways. Priscilla wasn’t thrilled. Insisted I’ve plans tomorrow.”

“Right. You’ll probably be marched into Gladrags and that frilly boutique. Good luck with that,” snorted Imelda. “Anyways, beating out your motion sickness. Spintwitches is open again.”

Artemis stepped behind the shade and started to change. “Spit witches?”

“Spintwitches,” corrected Imelda. “The sporting shop. Albie Weekes runs it – a bit barmy, but he’s got some brains. Heard he made some broom upgrades. Maybe you won’t get sick on a broom with one.”

Artemis grimaced. “I did say I don’t do well with swerves.”

“Yes, but curling on the ground like a pill bug?”

Artemis rolled her eyes at the tease.

“Besides, I don’t own a broom,” noted Artemis as she finished changing. Nocturne jumped onto the table and looked expectantly between her and the mirror on the floor.

“So get one! You won’t need to borrow the school’s then. Plus, it’s a handy way to escape if you’re surrounded by Ashwinder wankers,” reasoned Imelda

Artemis hummed. “You have a point.”

“I always have a point.”

“Fair,” said Artemis as she began her usual braiding ritual.

“Settled then, we’ll go after we fly,” said Imelda. Her beryl eyes met Artemis’ forest greens in the reflection. “Wait here.”

Artemis lifted an eyebrow with half her hair braided as she watched Imelda leave. Nocturne tilted his head before he pawed over two hairpins. She chuckled as she met the cat’s head bump with her own forehead.

“Thank you darling. Such a gentleman.”

Nocturne puffed his chest in pride. Artemis looked back briefly to check that Nerida’s curtains were still drawn. It seemed she really could sleep through a whole conversation.

The door clicked as Imelda returned with another set of Quidditch uniforms before they were flopped on her stack of Healing books.

“Now you have three sets.”

“But I – ”

“ – Keep it, they don’t fit me anymore” insisted Imelda as she crossed her arms and cocked her hip.

Artemis gave a smile. “Thank you, Imelda.”

“Whatever,” said Imelda as she rolled her eyes. Imelda reached toward her desk and picked up the perfume bottle. “La Fleure?”

Artemis chuckled as she finished pinning one braid around her head. “It was a gift. Apparently, it’s for… special occasions, but the bottle’s too beautiful to be stuffed in a drawer.”

Imelda gave a hum as she kept reading the bottle.

Artemis continued wrapping her other braid around. “What is Anne Sallow like?”

“Why?” Imelda asked, her sharp eyebrow lifted.

“Just curious.”

Imelda huffed a laugh.

“Take Sallow, shrink him a few inches, give him long hair and put a decent pair of tits on him.”

“Imelda!”

“You chide, but you’re smiling,” remarked Imelda as she smirked.

Artemis rolled her eyes as she placed the final pin. Her reflection smiled back at her.

“I didn’t need that image, thank you.”

Imelda barked a laugh, though she turned serious a moment later.

“Want my honest opinion?”

“Here I thought you were always honest,” said Artemis. Imelda lifted a corner of her mouth.

“Huh! Didn’t think you had cheek in you. But I’m starving, so after breakfast. A proper breakfast, not just green apples,” said Imelda.

The subject matter closed until they were on their brooms and above the Ravenclaw tower, far away from prying eyes and ears. The cool wind lifted her bangs as her ribbon fluttered.

“Anne’s not a bad sort. Roomed with her before she left. Decent enough chaser that I didn’t want to throttle her. But the general opinion of her went up when she left. Pretty sure only Ominis was her true friend.”

“…went up when she left?”

“Yeah. I assume you know Anne’s been sick since last year?”

Artemis nodded; she’d garnered that to most, Anne Sallow had ostensibly left the school due to a long-term illness. Only Sebastian, Ominis, and now herself knew that she had been cursed.

“Well. Anne’s always been cheery and polite enough to everyone. Taste for chaos that even made Garreth’s explosions look tame… though she partook in most of those. Part of that Crossed Wands club. Had a wicked tongue and temper too. Nobody really talks about the latter two now that she left,” explained Imelda as she moved forward.

Artemis kept up as she casted a pre-emptive libro; the wind pressed against her chest faster and harder. She tightened her core to keep herself as steady as possible.

“When you said Ominis was her only true friend, what did you mean?” Artemis asked curiously. Their voices were louder to cut through the whipping sounds from the speeding air.

“Exactly that. Can’t exactly call Sebastian her friend when he’s her twin. Both are friendly enough with most people, but it’s surface level. Pretty common for Slytherins. Anyways, that trio stuck together like a permanent sticking charm. Even last year, Sebastian and Ominis stuck together and nobody entered that third slot.”

Artemis agreed with that thought. Despite the friendships she’d formed here, Henry would always remain her closest friend. She highly doubted there would be anyone who could surpass him.

“That is, until you gave Sebastian a right battering. It’d been a while since I’d seen either of them take to someone so quickly.”

Artemis chuckled awkwardly; she wasn’t sure where she stood with the blond at least.

“Still got your insides together?” Imelda asked, completely unaware of Artemis’ turmoil.

“Oh yes.”

She casted another Sensory Balancing Charm.

“Then you better keep up. We’re beating out that motion sickness. Race you to Hogsmeade!”

“Again, that’s not how this works...!”

Imelda only deigned her with barked laughter.

A Bouquet of New Beginnings Chapter 14: "Purple Hyacinth"

Floriography - Please Forgive Me

Summary: Artemis is encouraged to take a certification, Sebastian & Artemis delve into that book from the Restricted Section, and an overdue conversation is had with a certain blond.

[AO3]

Below is an excerpt of the chapter. Full chapter can be viewed from AO3 link above!

“The Draught’s…working,” attempted Artemis.

Ominis’ sighed small as he shook his head. “What are you doing out here at this hour?”

“I was,” started Artemis as she swallowed. He didn’t need to know the cause. “I was waiting for Sebastian. Going to spell practise. Followed Nocturne. Distracted with the painting. Then… well.”

Silence fell as she caught something flash across Ominis’ face. Artemis, now completely under the effect of the Calming Draught, slowly stood; Ominis followed her movement. Nocturne kept his claws dug into her shirt as if to dare her to put him down. She gave him a soft kiss on his forehead.

“Sorry for troubling you. I’d… appreciate it, if you didn’t tell anyone,” whispered Artemis. “You should be gentle, with the grip.”

“What?”

“The grip. On the arrangement, so the stem doesn’t snap. You’re meeting up with someone, right? You should, go to them. I’m fine.”

Nocturne faintly protested in her arms. The blond sighed as his head tilted away and slightly shifted his feet.

“It’s for you,” mumbled Ominis after a few moments.

“…huh?”

“It’s for you,” repeated Ominis clearer.

He held out the arrangement toward her, and now she could see the single, purple hyacinth in the wrapping. The floral scent was powerful and the petals dewy fresh. He cleared his throat.

“I was hoping to find you. To give this to you to… apologise. Clearly right now isn’t the best time –”

“It’s fine, Ominis.”

Ominis’ eyes briefly widened at her words before he let out a breath.

“I’d been an absolute prat,” started Ominis slowly.

Artemis blinked twice at the unusually informal word but remained silent.

“I shouldn’t have lashed out at you like I did, nor ignore you when you’ve just been trying to help. I’m… I’m sorry.”

The hyacinth shook minutely in his grip.

She placed Nocturne on the rail platform only for him to drape over her shoulder before she conjured a flower of her own. Artemis gently accepted the hyacinth, and instead placed a single white tulip into his hand. Ominis moved his wand to gently touch the petals before he brought the flower to his nose.

“A tulip?” Ominis asked as he smelled it.

“A white tulip. Um, it’s the colour of fresh snow,” described Artemis. Her mind cobbled together something to describe white to someone who couldn’t see. “Sweet as sugar, soft as pillows… I accept your apology, Ominis. Thank you… for earlier, and the hyacinth. It’s beautiful.”

Ominis’ eyes widened briefly before he bodily relaxed, the white tulip held delicately in his hand. She wondered if this was why he wasn’t at dinner.

“I don’t think I’ve ever heard anyone describe colours like that before,” said Ominis softly. “It’s… nice.”

“Happy to do so,” answered Artemis, equally as soft.

A Bouquet of New Beginnings Chapter 15: "Flowering Maple"

Floriography - Enlightenment

Summary: Professor Fig is back from the fruitless trip to the Ministry, and another chat with Professor Rackham is had.

[AO3]

Below is an excerpt of the chapter. Full chapter can be viewed from AO3 link above!

Her heart and footwork were equally light as she made her way toward Professor Fig’s classroom with the note delicately folded into her pocket. The path was all but etched into her memory as she silently weaved through the student crowd. In fact, she didn’t stop until she knocked onto the professor’s office door, heart elated when she heard the voice beckoning her in.

“Professor Fig,” greeted Artemis warmly as she stepped through the threshold and clicked the door behind her. “Welcome back.”

Professor Fig looked up from his desk, weariness etched into his features but the English grey eyes brightened nonetheless.

“Artemis, it’s good to be back. Please, have a seat.”

“How was the errand to the Ministry, sir?”

“About as useful as pearls to a horklump,” sighed Professor Fig in lingering frustration as cups of warm chai were placed. Artemis took the seat across from him in front of the fire in the usual armchair. “Minister Spavin was much more concerned of the rogue dragon in the skies, and not in the least bit concerned of Ranrok and his ilk. But, I wouldn’t say it was a completely fruitless trip.”

Professor Fig gestured toward the back of his classroom where she noticed a distinct, new mound of papers and books were haphazardly stacked in a shaky lean equivalent to the Tower of Pisa.

“I was able to swing by my flat and grab Miriam’s old research. I presume you would like to read through those with me?”

Her mouth practically watered as she nodded. Professor Fig chuckled.

“Also, thank you for handling the Moste Ponte Potions.”

“Why did you need that book, sir?”

“Ah, you see. I had a feeling that this trip would be exactly like it ended up. So I thought we could brew something a little…useful. Call it a secret project,” teased Professor Fig as he opened the book and flipped it for her to see.

Polyjuice Potion. Her shoulders shook as her eyes scanned the calligraphy. Deliciously complicated, brilliantly long, and utterly disastrous if done wrong.

“I look forward to brewing, sir.”

“I could tell.”

“Are there any other potions that we should consider?”

“Hmm… why don’t you take a quick look? What Madam Scribner doesn’t know won’t hurt.”

Artemis flipped through the book; many were less than stellar, and some of them were downright dastardly. Not that the drawing of a woman with spider legs growing out of the tendrils of her brain on the Polyjuice Potion page was any bit delightful. She created copies of those she deemed necessary.

“Professor, while you were away, I was able to track down the missing pages of the book.”

Professor Fig choked on his chai.

“You – what?”

“I tracked down the pages, sir.” Artemis pulled out the pages from her legside bag, a poor attempt at righting the wrinkles clear. “It, er, it got a bit crumpled.”

She passed the paper; his English grey eyes scanned the lines. “How did you come by this?”

“Well, I became friends with a ghost named Richard Jackdaw initially when I dove into the Black Lake –”

“- wait, you dove into the Black Lake?”

“Yes. But I’d been reading at the boathouse when he popped by and mentioned that he’d pilfered a few pages from Peeves once. Of course, I asked him where he had them just in case and um, it turned out he had died in a cave. So I… may have gone to search for his bones to bring him back since he’d apparently been forgotten there for four decades – ”

“- you went to search for a dead boy’s bones?”

“Mm. But, of course, the pages were the ones from the book, and sir. The cave was like Gringotts and the Restricted Section, with ancient magic and those ornate decorations. It led to a chamber with a portrait of Professor Rackham a few floors beneath Hogwarts. He also said we would need the book,” finished Artemis.

Professor Fig inhaled then exhaled exaggeratedly.

“And were you alright? During this unsanctioned excursion?”

“Yes,” answered Artemis. He didn’t need to know of the tussle with the arachnids or the close call with Ranrok’s loyalists.

“Did you go alone?”

Artemis nodded, and she got the distinct feeling that Professor Fig was not pleased with that response. “But, Richard knew where I’d gone and he would’ve reported it if I didn’t come back, and I’d mentioned to Sebastian I was running an errand.”

“I see. Though I am glad you had put some contingencies, if you do something like that again, I do not care if I am in London or Cairo or the North Pole –”

“– the North Pole?”

“It’s just an example. Anyways, I would like you to owl me beforehand. Send a notice somehow. Understood?”

Artemis bit her lower lip.

“Yes, sir.”

“I know you’re more than capable, Artemis, and I realise you didn’t have many options. But just to ease this old man’s heart, alright?”

She smiled meekly toward his fond one.

“Were you able to find his bones?”

“Yes, he’s still deliberating on how he would like to be handled. There was one more thing I wanted to discuss with you, sir, but I’m not sure if I should wait for Professor Rackham since I’m not sure if it’s ancient magic related or not.”

“You’re full of mysteries today. Very well, let’s go down to the Restricted Section first; you could show me the pensieve, and we can bring up the topic to this Professor Rackham,” concluded Professor Fig.

Both Professor Fig and Artemis stood up from their respective chairs and made way toward the door.

“I wonder if all of the statues reset themselves,” mused Artemis. Professor Fig chuckled.

“Godric’s heart, I hope not. I’m no spring chicken.”  

A Bouquet of New Beginnings Ch. 16 "Peony I"

Floriography - Life & Honor

Summary: The First Trial of the Keepers and Other Traumatizing Events

[AO3]

Below is an excerpt of the chapter. Full chapter can be viewed from AO3 link above!

*There are trigger warnings listed within the end chapter notes on AO3, but the below excerpt is the section without any of the triggers involved.*

The steam smelled of honey and peony as the silver ladle created calm ripples across the magenta liquid. Sleeves rolled up of her sky-blue uniform, Artemis hummed her mother’s lullaby as she leaned over the Potions station before she stopped stirring and picked up the pestle and mortar. Mornings when she was tasked to brew and restock the apothecary were a boon, wherein she required just enough focus on a straightforward objective to not be distracted by unwanted thoughts.

“Professor Fig informed me that you were going on an exhibition this afternoon for your independent study.”

Her heart thudded loud against her ribcage as she lifted her gaze from the crushed myrtle petals. The gruff Potions professor’s eyes were lifted as he sat at his desk - a silent insistence to observe her brewing.

“Yes, sir. He was kind enough to offer to show me some of the ruins in the area for History of Magic,” answered Artemis succinctly.

That was technically true – Professor Fig did in fact state that the destined tower was heavily weathered, and they were going under the pretext of catching up on some sections of History of Magic. They couldn’t very well say that they were going to an old, abandoned tower that served as some sort of trial for ancient magic.

“I presume you are aware of the increased activity in the area?”

Again, Artemis nodded as she sprinkled in the crushed myrtle petals and adjusted the fire. The liquid was brought to a roiling boil as the mixture slowly rendered into a viscous pink whilst she stirred seven times counterclockwise.

“Inverto.”

The inversion magic left her wand, and the viscous pink shimmered before the colour dissolved into a milky white. Potent fertility inverted to a potent contraception – a simple idea with complex application. The binding spell in place, and the potion was complete. She poured a sample and gave it to Professor Sharp to test. A single drop of the potion coated the testing strip, and offered the visual of an upside-down peony – a success.

“Good,” commented Professor Sharp as he corked the vial. “Not many would get this potion right to this… potency.”

Artemis bit her inner cheek and bit back her comment; Professor Sharp lifted an eyebrow as he waved for her to finish up. The potion vials clinked together as she packed up, though her mind was now on the trial she’d undertake that afternoon. She hoped that whatever it was, she was ready.

“Miss Loreley,” cut in Professor Sharp as she was about to leave with the box filled with cushioned potion vials balanced on her hip. The professor made his way to her, a sealed roll of parchment in his hand.

“You are to work on this for the upcoming weeks. Ordinarily I wouldn’t be concerned but you… you ought to be prepared.”

“Sir?”

The parchment was tucked into the box.

“You are to work on these during the next few office hours. It would do well to bolster your arsenal other than just spells and Healing potions.”

Artemis blinked twice as she managed to dumbly nod.

The parchment was unfurled amidst Professor Binns’ monotonous review on a goblin rebellion in the 1300’s. Snores weren’t bothered to be concealed, and once again Artemis and Amit were the only two that seemed to remain remotely awake. Leander and Andrew fell asleep within five minutes. Poppy and Natsai made valiant efforts before they too succumbed; Ominis’ dark blond locks glowed softly in the spilled sunlight as he lasted perhaps a minute. Garreth and Sebastian, once again, did not show up.

Her eyes scanned over the parchment as she read the harsh calligraphic handwriting of Professor Sharp, and tilted her head. Sticky Solution was written on the top with a list of ingredients and directions. This looked like an original recipe. Giddy excitement bubbled in her chest at the prospect.

Ominis shivered slightly next to her even as he slept. She envied that he, and frankly every other person, could take a nap. Professor Binns glided by, and a pleasant coolness settled around them. Or rather, it was pleasant to her; everyone else seemed to shiver in their varied states of slumber.

She snuck another look at Ominis, who’d taken to using his arm as a standing pillow. He’d kept her request to keep silent about her embarrassing panic; she knew Sebastian would have relentlessly asked otherwise. She still wondered what she’d missed between the two of them when the topic of where to practise the spell came about, but that was beside the point. The point was that Ominis didn’t need to keep silent, and yet he did.

Her mind flitted to the purple hyacinth that now stood atop her desk in its vase. She sent a gentle warming charm from under her desk toward him, and Ominis’ shoulders relaxed. With a small smile, she continued to read up on the new potions recipe.

A Bouquet of New Beginnings Ch. 17 "Calendula"

Floriography - Health & Trouble

[AO3]

Summary: A month into the new school year. Professor Weasley checks in on progress, and Poppy invites Artemis for some moonlight rescue.

Below is an excerpt of the chapter; full chapter can be viewed from AO3 link above.

The beds of green slowly shifted to red, gamboge, and brown to welcome autumn. Students brought out their warm cloaks and jumpers to welcome the cooler months ahead. This particular afternoon, Artemis sat across from the redhaired Deputy Headmistress in her office. Fresh cups of earl grey wafted their elegant steam as the snow-haired girl rested her hands, right over left, in her lap.

“Miss Loreley, thank you for coming to see me so quickly.”

“It was no trouble, Professor Weasley,” responded Artemis quickly. Her palm tingled from the slight rub of her thumb against the hidden scar.

“It’s been a little over a month since you’ve come to Hogwarts, and I wished to check in on your progress. May I see your Field Guide?”

Artemis dutifully pulled out the tome from her school bag with both hands.

“How have you been adjusting?” Professor Weasley asked as she began to flip through the pages.

“Well, ma’am.”

A perfect blend of bitter and sweet swirled her mouth with her tea.

“I’m glad. I was starting to worry, since you’ve shown up to breakfast only once.”

She swallowed; the liquid felt like molten lava. Her gaze fell to the liquid surface. Reflected back was her carefully neutral façade. The additional Glamour Charm hid the increasingly darkened under eye circles.

“I eat light in the mornings, Professor.”

“I see. Well, you certainly keep yourself busy. Hospital Wing volunteering, the Briar Greenhouse, and I’ve heard you’ve taken to extra broom lessons with Miss Reyes. Nurse Blainey has also expressed that you wish to undertake the next Asclepius Record.”

A small smile stretched the Deputy Headmistress’ lips. Artemis wondered if this woman had ears in every crevice of the school.

“Collectively, all the professors of the mind that you are rapidly catching up to your classmates. You’re making great progress. Well done.”

Artemis’ gaze moved toward the desk as another sip of earl grey glided down her throat.

“Professor, may I ask a question?”

“Of course.”

“The room I stayed in my first night… did it disappear?”

No matter how many times she’d passed by that hall, the door never reappeared. Professor Weasley lifted an eyebrow before she chuckled softly.

“I’d wondered when you were going to ask me. Frankly I’m surprised it took you as long as you did.”

Artemis gave a sheepish smile. “I wanted to make sure I’d not been mistaken.”

“Hm. Very well. Nurse Blainey did mention the lack of a… what was it… a Healing mannequin? Perhaps the Room will have it.”

“The… Room, Professor?”

The professor held the Field Guide toward her. “Yes. Come, I’ll show you.”

Artemis followed the Deputy Headmistress without hesitation; her heels clicked as the clumps of students parted the halls. Professor Weasley’s overwhelming presence dulled her own as she followed in the taller woman’s shadow. The seventh-floor corridor wasn’t far, and there were no students there.

“Now, walk past this wall three times, and focus on something you need. To make it simple, how about somewhere to focus on the Asclepius Record?” Professor Weasley suggested warmly and gestured her arm toward the hall.

Artemis began. To and fro, her soft treads barely made a noise on the castle floors. Her mind, however, went broader than the Asclepius Record. She needed somewhere that could offer her all the Healing texts available, including texts in the Restricted Section, for herself, for Professor Fig, for Henry, for Anne even. Somewhere to train her Healing magic. Somewhere to go that wasn’t the Witty Pear if she were ever hurt, but couldn’t raise Nurse Blainey’s suspicion.

A… clinic.

Slowly, a dark cherry wood door unfurled itself from the middle of the greyed brick, and Professor Weasley gave a noise of awe.

“Well done! I do have to say, I’d never seen a wooden door before. Go on in,” encouraged the professor.

The door opened inward to something akin to a hexagonal conservatory. Some sort of conjured sunlight warmed the room from the kinmokusei glass mosaic on the ceiling. Half of the walls were made of clear glass, and beyond was a glade that closely resembled her mother’s glade. The solid walls were painted a pale sky blue, two of them nearly covered by the dark cherry bookshelves full of every other Healing text possible – delightfully, in both English and Japanese. Two Healing training mannequins stood in the corner, where the floor was tiled unlike the rest a light English Oak.

An overly large desk with an overhead glass cabinet stood against another wall, filled with potion vials and other equipment. Hanging baskets hung on the sides, and she was pleasantly surprised the ones already filled contained dwarf roses, lavender, and mints. There was an interesting-looking quill with a bronze ink bottle that stood on the side of the desk under the soft lamp light.

Artemis breathed out in awe. “What is this place?”

“This is the Room of Requirement,” started Professor Weasley. “It’s a room that changes to fit the seeker’s needs. I requested for a comfortable bedroom for you to rest in your first night.

Now, you’ve made quite a canvas for yourself. A rather interesting Desk of Description as well.”

“Desk of Description?”

“Yes. I’m sure you’ve come across a few things you didn’t know what they were; whenever you do, place it here and it’ll tell you what the item is.”

“So, like the Information spell?” Artemis asked.

Professor Weasley nodded. “Yes, though much more powerful. I daresay you could use this space to catch up on your other studies as well. Perhaps take one of those training mannequins to Nurse Blainey?”

“I- yes, Professor, thank you.”

“Speaking of studies… I noticed that Professor Fig has put in a few requests for outdoor excursions,” started Professor Weasley. “He marked them as introducing you to the land’s history and learning to immerse yourself into wizarding communities. Now I must ask… is any of this related to what happened with the dragon attack?”

“Not at all, Professor,” lied Artemis smoothly.

A moment passed between the two before Professor Weasley gave a small, tired smile.

“I see. Now, I shall let you get acquainted with your space – you’re free to use this space as you please, though I do ask you continue to adhere to the school rules.”

“Yes Professor. Thank you, for trusting me with this.”

“You’re welcome. I did, after all, show you this on your first night; I’m sure you would’ve figured out the secret sooner rather than later. Use it well,” said Professor Weasley warmly.

Artemis nodded as she watched the redhead leave. Once the door shut, her shoulders slumped in relief. Lying had been necessary but it left a bitter taste in her mouth. She reached into the legside bag and pulled out the mysterious palm-sized box that she’d gotten from the bottom of the Black Lake. She couldn’t believe it’d been a full month since she’d picked this up.

Inside sat three, translucent stones, fashioned into ear pierces onto their velvet bed. The moment she touched one the stone changed colour until it was an iridescent blue-green with a silvery shimmer on the inside.

<<How odd,>> gasped out Artemis before she placed the box onto the desktop near the ink and bottle. Bronze runes lifted from seemingly nowhere as they encircled the box in a flurry before they coagulated into a piece of parchment where the quill wrote at a furious speed. Once it had been completed, she read the words scrawled in bronze ink.

Secret Sharer

Mid-Tier artefact, commonly used to communicate between individuals telepathically if they are within a half-mile radius. Once attuned, the stone will change to the colour of their magical core. Resets upon return.

Artemis hummed as she picked up the Secret Sharer box, and repocketed it. She supposed, on occasion, it paid to explore the lakebed. Perhaps she’d invite Richard again when he came back. Or Nerida now that they’ve started floating practise in an enlarged bathtub.

But for now, she had Healing texts to read, and a mannequin to practise on.

Her fingertips glided across the book spines until she found Duality of Healing Arts, and began to read. She’d been going to the Restricted Section on twice a week with Sebastian, and had been chipping away at its contents slowly. Now, she had the luxury of reading it at her own pace without the constant threat of Madam Scribner, Peeves, or any myriads of ghosts. The contents were not as Dark as she would’ve thought, considering where it had been located, but it did touch on the ‘other’ side of Healing arts – necromancy. Artemis scrunched her nose in distaste.

The dead should remain dead, rest from the life they’d been living.

A particular spell, however, caught her attention. She pulled the mannequin manual and tapped her wand on the rune she needed. Suddenly, the mannequin was heavily lacerated - the chicken blood flowed freely in abundance onto the tiled ground. She pointed her wand, aglow in soft green light, and attempted in a sing-song incantation.

“Vulnera Sanentur.”

A Bouquet of New Beginnings Chapter 18: Zephyr Lily

Floriography: Sincerity/Will you help me?

Summary: The date for the Asclepius Record is set, Sebastian invites her to Feldcroft that weekend, and a bit of lightning collection with one Garreth Weasley.

[AO3]

Excerpt of the chapter is under the cut below, full chapter can be read through link above!

Professor Sharp lifted an eyebrow as his quill stopped abruptly. “Miss Loreley, could you repeat that?”

Her thumb pressed into her scarred palm.

“I would like to borrow two warded collection jars, as well as receive your written approval, to harvest arcane lightning during this Friday’s storm,” repeated Artemis calmly.

The sound of cauldron metal being scrubbed ceased.

“Merlin’s left tit.”

“Language, Mr. Weasley,” scolded Professor Sharp as he pinched the bridge of his nose.

Atop his desk were two harvested gargantuan venomous tentacula leaves – a show of good faith and proof – and the original Sticky Solution potion with an attached report. The windows behind him were pitch black with the late office hours, and only herself, the professor, and Garreth were there.

The scrubbing started back up at a snail-like pace.

The older man gave a deep, tired sigh before he stood and gestured for her to follow. The moment they entered his office, the door shut and tightly locked.

“And just how were you going to collect this?”

“The Astronomy Tower rooftop, sir,” said Artemis as she pulled out her written proposal. “The latent magic around and within Hogwarts would theoretically provide enough to imbue the falling lightning with enough arcane energy. And with a well-placed lightning conductor and coordinating the warded collection jars into the points drawn in the sketch, the lightning could be contained and gathered with minimal risk.”

“And why do you require arcane lightning? It’s not in any year’s curriculum.”

“Arcane lightning would triple the harvest of Professor Garlick’s greenhouses, which directly impact both your potions ingredient stock as well as for the Hospital Wing. Additionally, arcane lightning would greatly enhance the anti-paralyser potions within the apothecary, and gathering extras would allow experimentation for other possibilities. Mr. Pippin doesn’t carry any, the prices are astronomical, and since it is beyond the standard lightning material, unable to order through the school. I would like to be a bit more… resourceful, sir.”

Professor Sharp lifted an eyebrow. “You do realise there is the very real possibility of electrocution?”

“Safety precautions are outlined on the next page,” continued Artemis as Professor Sharp flipped the proposal. “The tower’s infrastructure has protection runes etched in to prevent storm damage, and the warded collection jars would cease to collect at capacity. A safe distance will be maintained on the nearest platform, as well as don the gear as stated.”

Another long silence followed. Artemis patiently waited for Professor Sharp’s verdict. Of course, it could potentially not storm, but she wanted to be prepared regardless. She’d already gotten a few warded jars for the Hospital Wing and her own stock from the Room, but with the professor’s permission, it would add legitimacy for staying up past curfew if necessary. 

The dull throb continued from her palm through her arm.

“Your material is well-prepared,” started Professor Sharp slowly as he flipped through the proposal once more. “The two jars that you are requesting from me would be for the classroom?”

“They would be for however you deem fit, Professor.”

“I see. Though with electrocution risk, I cannot sign off without at least another person –”

“–I’d like to recruit Garreth,” interrupted Artemis. Professor Sharp lifted an eyebrow. “He is the most knowledgeable at both real knowledge and application for ingredients in our year.”

“You trust Mr. Weasley to assist you with this?”

“Yes.”

“He’s serving detention for exploding his seventh cauldron and nearly destroying a classroom in fire as we speak,” pointed out Professor Sharp.

“I understand, sir, but I trust him,” insisted Artemis. This time, she didn’t shy away from Professor Sharp’s gaze.

Another few moments passed before Professor Sharp let out a sigh. “Call in Mr. Weasley please.”

Artemis blinked twice before she smiled, and gently opened the door.

“Garreth,” called out Artemis as she beckoned him.

Garreth whipped around from the cauldron that he’d been scrubbing. His cheeks appeared pink under the lamp light as he joined them in the office.

“Mr. Weasley, your detention this Friday has been changed.”

“Professor?” Garreth asked, tilting his head.

“You’ll accompany Miss Loreley this Friday, and will adhere to her every instruction. Miss Loreley, I will have the requested jars here Friday. Once the task has been completed, both of you are to report back to me without delay. Is that clear?”

“Yes, sir,” answered Artemis and Garreth.

“Mr. Weasley, you can return to your detention.”

“Yes, sir,” said Garreth.

Garreth’s gleaming peridot eyes met hers before he left the office. She shut the door once more and looked back at Professor Sharp.

“Was there something else, Miss Loreley?”

“Yes, sir. Um – with your latest extra assignment –”

“– the Sticky Solution, yes. It seems you have done a perfect brew; I shall be reviewing the report later.”

“Yes, well… I, would also like to submit this one, sir,” said Artemis as she pulled out her second vial. This one, unlike the coral liquid, was a deep magenta.

Professor Sharp picked up the vial. “This doesn’t look the correct colour.”

“I modified the recipe.”

“Modified it? How so?”

“When testing the Sticky Solution on moving dummies,” started Artemis, carefully hiding the field test on poachers, “I noticed the Solution only envelopes a limited scope, and if it doesn’t land just right would fizzle away. And Diffindo’d easily. This one is modified so it can’t be diffindo’d, and would expand to an extent if the dummy moves.”

Professor Sharp’s eyes widened.

“And what did you modify?”

Artemis held out the copy of the modified recipe. “I adjusted the ratios for the waters, decreased the tree sap and added Devil’s Snare essence.”

“Devil’s Snare…” Professor Sharp repeated as he accepted the copy.

“Yes, sir,” continued Artemis as Professor Sharp started to read through the paper. “Devil’s Snare’s resistant to Diffindo, and with the Devil’s Snare properties, even a few drops land would be enough to stretch to two limbs if the person moves. It’s shrinks down to the original amount with a Bluebell Flame charm.”

“Hmm… interesting. I will review this and will get back to you. For now, focus on your proposed arcane lightning collection. You’re free to go; let Mr. Weasley know his detention for tonight is done.”

Artemis nodded as she left the professor’s office.

“Garreth, Professor Sharp said you’re free to go.”

Garreth sighed in relief. “Oh thank Merlin. Hold up, I’ll walk to you Slytherin.”

“I- alright, sure,” agreed Artemis as she waited. If she had to be honest, she’d never seen the redhead move as fast as he did now putting away the dirty rags.

“Sorry about that,” said Artemis apologetically toward Garreth as they headed into the dungeon hall. The redhead whipped his head toward her, his peridot eyes widened.

“Sorry? Whatever for?”

She shrugged. “I didn’t exactly ask you beforehand if –”

“– Merlin, Snow, do you think I would be upset about gathering arcane lightning?” Garreth rolled his eyes as a grin spread across his face. “That’s got to be the best trade-off! I should be thanking you!”

Artemis blinked twice. “Were you listening at the door?”

“No,” said Garreth too quickly.

Artemis chuckled as she rolled her eyes good-naturedly. “No need for thanks. I would feel better if I had a friend helping me with this, so I’m glad you’re taking it in stride.”

Garreth, if possible, beamed more. “Come on, you need to tell me your secret.”

“What secret?” Artemis asked.

He gesticulated wildly. “How you convinced Sharp to just, agree!”

“Well,” started Artemis as they rounded a corner. “I asked, and gave him a proposal.”

“On actual parchment?”

“Yes, Garreth, on actual parchment. If he’s presented with enough evidence, Professor Sharp’s not going to refuse anything outright.”

“He refused to let me experiment,” grumbled Garreth.

“That’s because you do those ones during class,” tutted Artemis gently. “He’s never really stopped you from experimenting when you come into his office hours, right?”

“I suppose so.”

“Right. I presented that it would be beneficial to harvest the arcane lightning if we could, and that there are steps taken to mitigate the risk of being electrocuted.”

Garreth laughed brightly as his red waves bounced with each step. “Ah. By the way, what are those steps?”

“Staying a safe distance away, doing the prior setup as per diagram, there’s already runes in place so that’s taken care of, the Faraday's cage –”

“– Fara what?”

“Faraday's cage,” repeated Artemis as they stopped in front of the blank wall. “I’ll explain Friday. Thank you for walking me back.”

“Anytime! I won’t let you down, I promise,” declared Garreth brightly. “Good night and don’t let the bed bugs bite!”

“There aren’t any bed bugs…” said Artemis before she gave a fond smile. “But, thank you. Sleep well.”

Garreth nodded, and almost had a skip to his step as he bounded away.

She whispered toward the wall. “Zephyranthes.”

The door shut with a loud thump behind her, and she took her leisurely time to appreciate the descent of the spiral staircase, the serene waterfall, and the soft piano.

She wondered if the Room would conjure a piano, like it did for the warded collection jars or the Healing training mannequins. Her fingers missed the ivories.

Her eyes caught Ominis leaned against the windowed alcove, and Sebastian across from him. As she walked closer, her ears picked up snippets of their conversation.

“Come on, Anne would be over the moon to see you.”

Ominis sighed heavily. “I already told you, I – oh, hello Artemis.”

Sebastian whipped his head toward her, his eyes widened briefly before they relaxed.

“Hello. Any mermaids?” Artemis asked curiously.

“Not today,” chuckled Ominis as he gently shook his head. His eyes matched the blue-green of the Black Lake beyond the window, and the Common Room light danced along the lens. They looked like jewelled marbles or sea glass.

“Leave it to Ominis to sense you. Where’ve you been?”

“Professor Sharp’s office hours.”

Sebastian lifted an eyebrow. “Again? Why you want to voluntarily spend more time in Sharp’s presence is beyond me.”

“He’s really amenable.”

Sebastian pointedly looked at her like she grew a second head. Ominis chuckled quietly as he tilted his head toward the window.

“Anyways, perfect timing,” started Sebastian again as he flapped a piece of paper. “Had to settle for just a day trip, but finally got Ronan to sign off. Not to mention Anne convinced my uncle. You available to come to Feldcroft with me Saturday? Meet Anne?”

“Of course,” answered Artemis without hesitation.

The brunet’s warm chocolate eyes brightened at the quick and smooth response.

“Will you be going as well, Ominis?” Artemis asked.

Ominis shook his head disappointedly. “No, unfortunately I’ve got a… meeting I can’t reschedule.”

Artemis’ eyes flitted to Sebastian’s as the latter shook his head minutely. Right, leave it alone.

“Library tonight, Artie?”

Artemis nodded as Ominis gave a disapproving hum.

“You two with your library outings. Don’t you have enough detention to last you until the end of the month, Sebastian?”

“Damned Peeves,” grumbled Sebastian as he turned toward her with puppy-dog eyes. “It’s always when you aren’t with me that I get caught. Can’t you come more often?”

“Perhaps when I catch up to everyone,” apologised Artemis with a small smile.

Both boys’ expressions turned to a degree of pity, which she shrugged off. Instead, she turned toward Ominis. “Would you like to come with us tonight?”

The blond’s eyes widened even has his head tilted minutely toward her. Sebastian briefly had an unreadable expression flit before he eased into a smile. Then proceeded to throw his arm around Ominis’ shoulder.

“Yeah Ominis, come with us. Sneak around the halls, get into places that we shouldn’t be. Maybe Artie could even sneak out a late-night cauldron cake.”

Ominis grumbled a moment with his arms crossed, but the corners of his lips were upturned.

“I suppose I’d like to witness this famed lockpicking.”

“Fantastic! I’m going to grab the books to put back. You know, a legitimate reason to go in,” exclaimed Sebastian before he nearly skipped his way up toward the boys’ dormitory.

“Ominis?” Artemis started as she kept her gaze forward.

“Yes?”

“Is there anything I could do to help? About the meeting or, anything else.” She got the distinct impression that this meeting was not something Ominis was looking forward to.

In her periphery, she caught Ominis tilt his head toward her as his eyes widened. He breathed in deeply before he sighed heavy, and his dark blond locks shook gently as he shook his head.

“No…no. Though I do appreciate the thought. Actually,” paused Ominis, “try and make sure Sebastian doesn’t do anything ridiculous Saturday.”

Artemis blinked twice. “Like when he accidentally ran into the grate during Crossed Wands?”

Nerida had a right laugh even when she was on the opponent side; Sebastian and Artemis still were victorious.  

Ominis huffed a soft laugh. “He seemed to appreciate you healing up his bruise.”

“I’d be a poor duelling partner if I didn’t,” chuckled Artemis.

Ominis nodded, then his tone became sombre. “Anne’s been through a lot, and though Sebastian’s well-intentioned... Well. You hopefully won’t see it but, he and Mr. Sallow… clash. I heard it got worse this past summer.”

Artemis bit her inner cheek. “I’ll do my best,” settled Artemis genuinely. “What’s Anne like?”

“Why’re you asking me? You’ll meet her this weekend.”

“I like to know your opinions.”

“Ha! Be careful what you wish for. Hmm… well. She’s my best friend along with Sebastian. Less bull-headed but… I daresay much more impulsive, which is saying something, considering. I – I miss her,” said Ominis, his voice fond even as his volume slowly dropped.

“I hope she gets better soon,” whispered Artemis.

“I… me too.”

Artemis looked up at that; she wondered what he had hesitated in saying. A comfortable silence befell between them as the piano continued its nocturne.

“Artemis?”

“Yes?”

“Why do you go to the library?”

Artemis looked up toward Ominis once more. His unseeing eyes were kept toward the boy’s dormitory entrance. She gently leaned against the same alcove as Ominis; he didn’t move.

“I’m worried,” said Artemis honestly.

“Worried?”

“Mm.” A dull pain went through her left arm as she pressed her thumb pad into her scar. “I’m worried he’ll whittle himself to the bone.”

When she went with Sebastian, they snatched up Healing texts. They’d sit by the Common Room fire as they bounced off ideas of potential Dark causes and past Healing examples that seemed vaguely promising. Those nights they came back quickly and talked until one in the morning. She didn’t know when Sebastian returned the nights she was busy with her other projects, but she knew he made it a mission to attempt at least four nights a week. It didn’t matter that Leto agreed to the check-up; Sebastian continued his own research.

She was worried history would repeat itself.

Ominis’ smooth voice cut through her thoughts. “When is Healer Gavin visiting?”

“As soon as Anne gives her consent, he’ll let us know,” answered Artemis.

A brief silence passed between them as Sebastian’s signature brown tousle emerged. She heard Ominis quietly sigh.

“Me too.”

“Hm?”

“I’m worried, too.”

A Bouquet of New Beginnings Chapter 19: Forget-Me-Not

Floriography: Clinging to the past. Remembrance. True love.

Summary: A lil' trip to Feldcroft to meet the Sallow family.

[AO3]

Excerpt of the chapter is below the cut, and the full chapter could be viewed through the AO3 link above!

With a small wave, Artemis made her way to the Common Room. Sebastian stood near the waterfall in a pair of dark grey trousers, plaid beige button down and dark brown button-down vest with his school bag. Each piece of garment looked well-loved; it suited him.

“Good morning Sebastian. You look nice.”

Sebastian turned, his eyes widened slightly as he gave a cheeky grin. “Why thank you. Wakefield’s work?”

She nodded. “Mm. I hope I didn’t keep you waiting.”

“No, you’re just in time,” said Sebastian. “Come on; Feldcroft isn’t too far, and you haven’t explored the area much right?”

“Not really, no,” said Artemis as she kept up with Sebastian.

“Well, we could walk there since we’re so early. It’d be a bit pricey but we could take a carriage part way.”

Artemis hummed. “What about flying part way instead?” 

“I don’t exactly own a broom,” said Sebastian.

“I do.”

Sebastian whipped his head around. “You do?!”

“Well, technically, I don’t own it yet,” started Artemis as she tapped her legside bag. “Mr. Weekes needed someone to test his upgrades, and I needed a broom. The broom will officially be mine at the end of the school year, upgrades included.”

Sebastian’s mouth fell agape for a few seconds before morphing into a smile.

“First of all, you need to tell me how a broom fit in there. Second, broom sounds fine except for one thing.”

“Oh?”

“There’s only one,” said Sebastian.

Artemis blinked twice.

Sebastian sighed as he lifted his finger.

“One broom, Artie,” repeated Sebastian as he moved the finger between himself and her. “You’re okay with riding with me?”

“Of course. Why wouldn’t I? It’s just a broom,” said Artemis.

Sebastian let out a noise. “Have you ever ridden with another person?”

“Twice,” grimaced Artemis. “Thought if I flew it this time, it could be different. Unless you mind?”

“No, of course not,” answered Sebastian too quickly. He cleared his throat. “Alright. Let’s walk to Keenbridge then fly. I can help steer.”

Sebastian filled the air with excited conversation the entire way to Keenbridge. He spoke of how Anne was excited to see them today, of how they used to run around the hamlet and jump into the ocean during the summers. His warm chocolate eyes sparkled under the October sun. Artemis listened and responded whilst carefully concealing the nerves of going to a new friend’s house.

Keenbridge was a humble but lively hamlet. A potioneer was busy manning her stand, villagers chattered away with their tea and children played in the hamlet centre. A nostalgic smile spread as she watched a girl being playfully chased by a boy. Her gaze lifted to Sebastian, who looked wistfully at the same pair. She averted her gaze as she proceeded to pull out the Moon Trimmer.

Sebastian leaned in as he appraised the broom.

“Moon Trimmer? Reliable, but not speedy. Why didn’t you go for the fastest one?”

“This one has bags,” pointed Artemis before expanding the Cushioning Charm.

As she mounted the broom, she looked toward Sebastian who remained standing where he was.

“Sebastian?”

The freckled boy took another moment before he made his way behind her and mounted the broom.

“Pardon me,” said Sebastian as he leaned forward.

His left hand wrapped around the broom handle right above hers, and his right arm circled her waist, holding her steady against his chest. She could smell the cinnamon from his cologne mixed in the wind.

Sebastian cleared his throat. “The broom’s going to tend downward. Give it a few laps low before we go up.”

His breath tickled her ear, and suddenly she wondered if this was why Imelda asked of the attire choice.

“Right.”

The broom was reliable and steady; it didn’t fail her when she wore armour, and it wouldn’t fail her now. Soon, they lifted into the softly lit sky and leaned forward.

“Libro.”

“What did you just cast?” Sebastian asked.

“Sensory Balancing Charm,” answered Artemis.

“Why?”

Artemis hummed. “I get motion sick. This helps me to… not.”

Sebastian let out a laugh. “Huh, so you do have some weaknesses.”

Artemis chuckled in lieu of a response. As they flew, the foliage painted the lands below in their myriads of colour. The crisp autumn air caressed her cheeks like a long-lost lover.

“Wow, this is … breath-taking,” breathed out Artemis.

Sebastian chuckled low behind her, his hand carefully guiding the broom toward Feldcroft.

“Yeah, it’s nice to just… get away from it all sometimes,” sighed Sebastian.

She hadn’t heard him sound this relaxed before.

“I take it you like flying?”

Sebastian nodded. “Anne and I used to chase each other around with the school brooms. Even got Ominis to join once or twice. Granted, he was the one clinging onto me.”

“Were you on the Quidditch team as well? Imelda mentioned Anne was a Chaser.”

“Mm. Played Beater. We were back-up our second year and starters in our third but after Anne got cursed,” paused Sebastian as he sighed. His warm breath tickled the back of her neck. “Anne was much more into Quidditch; I prefer casual flying.”

“Hopefully she’ll be able to come back soon,” said Artemis.

“She will,” said Sebastian. “I know it.”

She heard the faintest crack where the parasitic frustration snuck beneath the optimism. It was the same frustration that turned her father into a near stranger. She slid her left hand up just enough so her fingertip ghosted his wrist.

“You aren’t alone,” murmured Artemis.

She thought she heard Sebastian’s breath hitch. She began retracting her hand - perhaps she overstepped. Instead, his hand wrapped over hers and gripped tightly.

“Thank you,” whispered Sebastian.

She gave a small hum. Only the sound of wind flitted for a few minutes, and he made no attempt to move his hands away.

Sebastian cleared his throat. “Your hand is freezing.”

“And yours is burning,” countered Artemis.

“I admit, I run hotter than most, but your hands are colder than Ominis’,” chuckled Sebastian. “Ah, we’re almost there.”

Feldcroft appeared below with blankets of grass and scattered little homes. There was a centre circle and farms for each home, but not much else. The air filled with a haze of dust as they dipped lower, and she sneezed quietly into her chest.

“You alright? Not catching a cold are you?” Sebastian asked. His arm tightened around her waist.

She shook her head. “No. But it’s a bit dusty, isn’t it?”

“Thanks to Ranrok’s lot,” muttered Sebastian.

The blood froze in her veins. “What?”

“Yeah,” said Sebastian bitterly. “See that castle to our right?”

Artemis turned her head; in the not too far distance stood a castle. Even from this distance it was clear the castle was past its glory days.

“Ever since last year, Ranrok’s Loyalists took a peculiar interest in it. Rookwood castle. No one has felt safe here since.”

“Wait, did you say Rookwood?” Artemis asked. “As in, criminal leader Victor Rookwood, Rookwood?”

“Could be. As far as I know – or rather from what Ominis gathered – there’s at least three Rookwood’s alive. I don’t know if it’s Victor Rookwood that owns that castle now but, either way, it’s overrun with Loyalists,” gritted Sebastian. “This dust, and all the debris is coming from that plateau to our left. There’s an abandoned estate up there, and the Loyalists have been digging for something… Anne was cursed there by them.”

Artemis tilted her head. “But why would they want to curse a child?”

“Dunno, Anne wasn’t going there for tea,” said Sebastian darkly. “We smelled smoke in the middle of the night, and there was fire shooting from that estate. Before we could stop her, Anne rushed out – racing toward the fire, worried someone’d been hurt.”

The grip around her hand tightened as his arm around her waist shook. She didn’t need to see his face to know he was furious. At the goblins or himself, she didn’t know.

“She came face to face with a horde of goblins frantically trying to stamp out the flames. Suddenly, an icy voice drifted out from somewhere in the smoke; ‘Children should be seen and not heard.’ A blinding blast followed. They didn’t even give her a chance to run. Even worse, my uncle refuses to investigate, even though he was an Auror.”

Rookwood castle. An abandoned estate. A quaint hamlet.

On a hunch, Artemis dipped further until they both hovered above a lookout, and it clicked.

“Sebastian, this view… it’s the one from the pensieve!” Artemis exclaimed.

“What?”

“The memory in the Restricted Section. The hamlet they revived – it was Feldcroft!”

Sebastian gasped. “Damn, that hamlet? Wait, so the girl –”

“– Isidora. The estate must’ve been her home. This – this can’t be a coincidence, Sebastian.”

Sebastian leaned forward as his cheeked touched her ear. Her cheeks warmed at the contact.

“Wait, you mean those goblins could be digging for something to do with ancient magic?” Sebastian asked loudly.

Artemis averted her gaze as she gave a nod. It took a moment before Sebastian slowly leaned back, at least, his cheek was no longer against her ear.

Sebastian cleared his throat. “Do you think Anne’s curse could be ancient magic related? You’d be able to see it then, right?”

“I don’t want to jump to conclusions, but I can definitely check,” agreed Artemis.

Sebastian hummed. “Come on, it’s high time you met Anne. Land us there.”

A Bouquet of New Beginnings Chapter 20: "Devil's Guts"

[AO3]

Floriography: Parasite

Summary: The Keepers are *actually* teachers, and Halloween with the Helm of Urtkot.

An excerpt is under the cut as usual; the full fic is located in the AO3 link above!

Long before the sun rose, she opened the grandiose double doors to the Map Chamber. The two professors slid into their frames as if they were alerted to a visitor.

“Ah, Artemis. What a pleasant surprise,” greeted Professor Rackham.

“I presume you’re here regarding our previous discussion,” said Professor Rookwood.

Artemis nodded. Yesterday’s discoveries in Feldcroft hastened her need to learn as much as she could. It was clear they wanted her, at least partially, as a hunting dog. If the size of those drills were anything to go by, they were digging for something big.

Professor Rackham cleared his throat. “We have come to a decision. With provisions, we will teach you how to hone your ancient magic.”

Artemis’ thumb subtly rubbed her scar. “Provisions, sir?”

“Yes,” started Professor Rookwood. “First, is that we decide which questions we will answer. Not to say we won’t in time, but it will depend on your trials. Second, what is taught here is to be kept between us.”

“The sole exception would be Professor Fig. There is an importance of a guiding hand,” added Professor Rackham. “Finally, we will expand on what you already know. Until you progress further in the trials, we will not teach you anything that is wholly new. Do you accept these conditions?”

It wasn’t as much as she’d like, but she’d take it. She was patient enough.

“Yes, sir.”

The professors nodded, and she was glad portraits could not read minds. She was going to take some creative liberty in comparing their teachings, the book’s contents and Sebastian’s thoughts.

“Good. I believe we should start with seeing what you can do.”

Professor Rackham waved his hand as the floor shook. The pointillistic stars lifted from their pooled map and formed a statuesque shape. Artemis whipped out her wand and had a hand on her legside bag.

“Do not worry; it will move and attack but won’t hurt you. After all, stars are a million miles away from us.”

“Percival…” deadpanned Professor Rookwood.

Professor Rackham chuckled. “Use both ancient magic and regular spells – I’d like to see it. Begin.”

For a statue made of pointillistic stars it moved abhorrently fast. She felt the arcane coolness wash through her as she dodged the sword sings and landed more than ten feet away silently. Silvery petals flitted as she brought forth the tempest. In this arena, she could see clearly how blips of ancient magic existed in the very air that surrounded her and how they wove together at the tip of her wand as it interwove with her standard spells. The oil paintings remained silent as she flung spell after spell with practiced footing.

When the stars returned to the black pool underneath, she looked back toward the portraits. Her heartrate was elevated, but her breathing was relaxed.

“Well. I daresay that was… impressive,” said Professor Rookwood.

Professor Rackham stroked his beard. “Allow me to confirm a theory. When was the first time you saw the silvery petals?”

“When I cast Protego,” answered Artemis.

“In what circumstance?”

“Ranrok’s troll tried to crush a boy in Hogsmeade.”

“I see,” said Professor Rackham. “You mentioned my ancient magic shimmered like stars before.”

“Yes, is that tied to our individual cores?” Artemis asked.

“Niamh is going to adore you,” commented Professor Rookwood.

“Correct. To start, our magical cores are different even among wizardkind. We weren’t able to research as thoroughly as Charles would’ve liked, but people like us have a few specific requirements for our magic to manifest.” Professor Rackham counted off his fingers. “A longer gestational period, a specific mixture of blood, and a powerful catalyst. The first is because we can naturally access the foundational levels of magic – latent or active. That is why when we use the same incantations and wand movements as others, the effects are slightly different. More diverse. We surmised this ability means that it takes double the time for the magical core to develop. This allows us to, for the lack of better term, soak up ancient magic around us and channel it into our spells.”

“The second,” said Professor Rookwood as he pulled out parchment, “is a specific mixture of blood. It is a theory, mind you… this ability only seemed to surface within half-bloods. Unless you would like to provide contrasting data?”

“I – frankly I don’t know my blood status, sir,” answered Artemis honestly. “Both my parents were magical, but status never came up in discussion.”

If true, then Artemis learned something new about her own lineage. She wondered who was which… not that it mattered in the end.

Professor Rookwood tutted. “Pity. I could’ve added to my notes.”

“Charles,” admonished Professor Rackham quietly. “Now, the most important – the catalyst. The gestation period, the blood – those are just the foundations. What our core needs to activate is an emotional trigger so the foundations can take root. Something profound, and it must be before the person turns sixteen.”

Artemis raised her hand out of habit. “So, there’s a chance there have been others like me, or, like us, within the past four hundred years? Just, they didn’t experience the catalyst?”

“Potentially, yes. There are many unknowns. I won’t ask of yours, but I can tell you, my catalyst… was seeing the most profound meteor storm and being completely swept in awe.”

She sucked in a breath. She knew exactly what hers was – the one-year mark when Leto and Kierston rescued her from the depths of limbo. It felt then, truly, that it was real, that they were there to stay, and she felt completely and utterly safe for the first time in years.

“The reason the catalyst is so important is because your instinctive ancient magic is tied to that trigger. Yours is, I dare say, something protective,” analysed Professor Rackham.

“The best defence is a good offense,” said Professor Rookwood.

“That tempest was a marvel, but you must learn how to control the power levels. I suggest practising by thinking of a single lightning bolt, and tempering the intensity. You will need both discipline and patience in yourself; it will not be resolved overnight. Now, I believe we’ve given you enough to digest for today. I suggest a bi-weekly visit; you will need to concentrate on your regular schooling as well,” said Professor Rackham.

“Wait, I have one more question, sir,” called out Artemis hurriedly as the portraits made to leave. She turned to Professor Rookwood. “It’s about the memory of Feldcroft. Were you able to wield ancient magic? Or did you augment Professor Rackham’s magic?”

The portraits exchanged a glance. Professor Rookwood sighed.

“I only tell you this because you’d piece it together on your own at this rate. Those of us who cannot see ancient magic cannot cast ancient magic out of nothing. But we can wield, and augment, existing pieces.”

Not ten minutes later, she sent out a letter to Professor Fig. An hour later, she sat in her designated arm chair within Professor Fig’s office with Nocturne in her lap. She spared no detail in what she’d discovered over the past two days.

Professor Fig fiddled with his scarf. “Intriguing. The fact there’s been a consistent Loyalists presence so close is disconcerting... as is the fact that it’s becoming more and more likely they’d repurposed existing ancient magic from somewhere. You did the right thing, to not engage them with Mr. Sallow.”

Artemis sighed as she sipped the warm chai. “Do you think it’s possible they’re… mining for more ancient magic? I can’t imagine the Keepers would leave ancient magic just lying about in the open.”

“Possibly. There is the matter of how they found out in the first place. With their generally reticent demeanour, I can’t imagine the Keepers left their findings in easily accessible places –”

“– Aside from Peeves,” they said in unison.

Artemis briefly smiled before her eyebrows furrowed. “Professor, is there anything we could do for Feldcroft? I just… Anne lives there and, well –”

“Considering Minister Spavin’s response about the dragon, I do not think we should bank on the front-line aurors,” said Professor Fig. “But perhaps I can call in a favour and see if patrols can be brought to the area. How is Miss Sallow?”

“She’s… unwell, but she’s trying. She’s agreed to Leto’s check-up; I’m currently waiting on his response,” answered Artemis.

The older wizard gave a small, comforting smile as he nodded. “And what about your friend? Richard Jackdaw, was it? He is helping clear up a murder case, yes?”

The grip around her cup tightened.

“Yes, but it going at a snail’s pace. It seems the Ministry is… reluctant, to release Ms. Thisbe. Citing her long stay in Azkaban and the danger she possesses to the community,” said Artemis, repeating Ms. Thistlewood’s latest missive. Nocturne’s tail swished.

“More like Azkaban made her dangerous,” sighed Professor Fig. “You’ll unfortunately find that, though there are plenty of good people that work at the Ministry – Leto, Kierston, and George to start – there are those that are not and only care for their self-interests.”

Artemis nodded as she sighed. Richard’s bones remained in the jewellery box inside her legside bag. She never parted with it; it was the safest place to keep ‘him’ until he came back. Nocturne’s and paper tongue licked her fingers.

“By the way, did you manage to meet Lodgok?”

“Not yet, sir. Sirona suggested I meet him on Halloween considering,” trailed off Artemis as she gestured to her hair. “Though, it may be best to go alone. He doesn’t trust wizards, and even with Sirona’s recommendation, he may not meet me. Especially with another person.”

Professor Fig looked at her with those English greys, and she could visualise the mental scales as he contemplated her suggestion.

“I presume this is what you would like to undertake during independent study?”

“Yes, sir.”

“Hm. Considering everything that is at stake… you will write to me if it will be longer?”

“Of course, sir,” answered Artemis.

Professor Fig gave a relieved smile. “Right. Now, I think it’s high time for breakfast. Then we can check on the lacewings for the Polyjuice.”

Cactus

Garreth Weasley x Artemis Loreley (MC)

Summary: The last Gryffindor-Slytherin Quidditch match ended, and now the after-party is on in the Gryffindor Tower.

Floriography for Cactus (Cactacae): Ardent Love. Burning with Love. Lust.

This was for the March NSFW prompt for the discord server writing event: "Getting (Un)Lucky Tonight". No cactus was harmed in this story whatsoever.

Tags: NSFW, Hogwarts 7th year, Gryffindor-Slytherin Relationship, hand jobs, plot what plot, drapery lions laughing at misery, Garreth POV Limited, inappropriate licking of green apple liqueur

Artemis is my MC in my long fic "A Bouquet of New Beginnings," but this is separate and not related to said story.

[AO3]//Word count: 2.2k

An echo of the Gryffindor-Slytherin Quidditch after-party climbed the spiral staircase.  A right hubbub of a - mostly - friendly rivalry, where drinks, song, and at least one miniature firework from Zonko’s had been unleashed. Garreth would usually be, and had been, in the heart of it – behind the makeshift counter handing out concoctions with his brewing partner.

“Are you sure it was fine for both of us to leave?” Artemis asked softly as she followed.

He would’ve sworn he’d climbed up the tower by himself if he wasn’t holding said brewing partner’s small, chilled hand tightly within his, their fingers interlaced like perfect puzzle pieces. The swish of her floor length green skirt drowned her soft treads.

“Don’t worry Snow,” said Garreth cheerfully, “We left plenty of stock for Lee and Sebastian to distribute while we grab more.”

“If they don’t drink it first.”

“They won’t.”

He made sure of that.

“Oh?”

She squeezed his hand; he squeezed back.

“Oh,” repeated Garreth.

The familiar door swung open and shut as the red and gold regalia revealed themselves, and Garreth regrettably let go of Artemis’ hand as he went straight toward his bed. The miniature cactus that she gifted him stood proudly on his bedside stand, and he gave the little guy a ghostly brush before he crouched to the floorboards. He snuck a glance toward her as he shovelled out a few crates worth of conspicuously brewed beverages. She was the lone presence of emerald green and silver; her forest green eyes were alight with curiosity as they travelled along the walls, the drapery, the ceiling, the desks, and now, down to him.

Their gazes met. She smiled; her cheeks tinted pink.

His stomach fluttered with butterflies just as intense as ever. He could die happy right then and there.

But instead of dying crouched on the floor like a sappy fool, Garreth stood as he pulled out an unlabelled bottle as he took one, two, three steps to close the distance. The top of her head barely reached his chin, her snow-white hair stood out brilliantly against the reddish-brown brick wall and the way her eyes lifted slowly to meet his made him question if they really needed to go back.

“Here, my newest brew,” said Garreth as he popped the bottle open.

“Oh, this smells lovely.” Artemis sniffed lightly. “Green apples?”

“Mhm. Go on, have a sip.”

She took the cool bottle, and her fingertips ghosted his knuckles in a subtle caress. His heart buzzed. Damned temptress.

“The first test?”

“Yep,” said Garreth.

Nope. He drank every disgusting version he managed to produce before landing on this one.

“You’re an awful liar, Garreth.”

The lamplight danced along her eyes; they crinkled softly around the edges.

He smiled like an idiot. “How do you know?”

She chuckled, soft and melodious.

“My lips are buttoned,” said Artemis as she brought the bottle to her lips and took a slow drink.

Her throat softly bobbed with a barely audible gulp. He could just see the tip of her tongue peeking out from between her lips – the same lips that could emit the most cutthroat of insults and words as sweet as molasses – as it licked off undoubtedly any remnants of the drink.

He swallowed for entirely different reasons that had his blood rushing southward.

“Tangy. I like the sugar granules,” commented Artemis as she gave the bottle back to him. “Not too sweet.”

Of course it wasn’t; he knew her tastes.

“Glad you like it. Want more?”

“Sure,” agreed Artemis warmly, “but after you have some.”

“Suit yourself,” said Garreth.

He didn’t move from his spot - nor did she - as they stood about a half-arm’s length apart and he brought the bottle to his own lips. He felt her gaze as he tipped the bottle excruciatingly slow, the green apple liqueur passed his lips in a tangy, light burn that filled his mouth. Particularly, she seemed focused along his neck, right where his Adam’s apple bobbed as he swallowed once.

A thought – a brilliant, genius thought – crossed his mind.

He took another swig and watched as his favourite girl’s eyes moved with the bottle as the glass touched the nearest dresser. There was a moment, a delicious moment, where her eyes widened ever slightly just before his uplifted lips met hers. The surprised hum from her throat as her lips slightly parted was far more delectable than the drink, and yet it wouldn’t do for him to keep this drink to himself.

Fingers tangled into her long, soft snow-white hair, gently pressing against her as he took hold of her hand, his slightly dry, burning fingers intertwined with her smooth, cool ones. One step, two step, and his beloved was pressed softly against the reddish-brown wall as he coaxed her mouth to open with a small, teasing swipe of his own tongue. The green apple liqueur spilled a thin line along her chin and undoubtedly down the smooth column of her neck as he pressed forward, any distance between them criminally negligent.

Her other hand slipped behind his back. What he would give to have her always holding him like this, desperately clinging to him like this.

Even when he heard her swallow, Garreth didn’t stop. Couldn’t stop. Not when the little gasps that escaped her lips as he tugged her hair gently sounded better than any heavenly choir. Not when their lips parted, a single strand of silvery saliva connected them before he kissed the corner of her lip, his mouth slowly travelling down along the path of green apple and sugar granules. Not when she whimpered just right as his tongue licked its way to the hollow of her throat, and a gentle nip accompanied by his fingers combing languidly through her locks.

“The party –”

“– Can wait. Can’t let anyone see you like this,” murmured Garreth.

The music below wandered through the bottom crack of the door louder, but he couldn’t care less. His body burned for them both, his hands the device in which he delivered reverence upon her. Reticent to let go of the hand that gave and helped students, teachers, and the rest of the wizarding world, his grip tightened as he pressed against her, the linen they wore on their very persons seemed a travesty. Even his own bed, perhaps not a few feet away, was too far.

“Garreth.”

She would see him unravel with just the breathy whisper of his name as his lips grazed back up to the sensitive spot just beneath her ear.

“Hm?”

His fingers moved from her hair as he made the minimum requirement of room to slip his hand along the middle of her abdomen, her chest, and finally reached her blouse buttons.

One. Two. Three.

Slowly her luscious skin appeared before him, another canvas to map as his tongue glided down. He groaned as he created friction between the two, his own need burning hot as he tugged the blouse from her waistband.

“Garreth–” Artemis started, her voice breathy as her free hand coaxed his shirt hem out.

“– We’ll make it quick,” he whispered against her ear before he gave a little nip.

Her warm breath tickled the shell of his ear as she nodded minutely. His hand moved to squeeze her bum.

“Troublemaker,” murmured Artemis as her hand snuck in, her cool fingertips sent a shiver up his spine as they slowly slid under his waistband, taking an excruciatingly long time to move from the small of his back to his hip.

“You love it.”

Garreth fully moved his hand and gently lifted Artemis’ leg to wrap around his waist. Her hand popped the buttons of his trousers, and bless this woman as she freed him from his own prison.

“Always,” purred Artemis as her thumb swiped at his head, already leaking with a clear bead.

“Merlin Snow,” Garreth gasped out as his hand touched the pantyhose at her ankles. “How attached are you to these?

“Not at all.”

Merlin be damned this minx.

A low growl emitted as he pulled out his wand, and wordlessly vanished the offending cloth and her undergarments for good measure. “Good.”

Her leg was softer than any silk in his grip, of which he held so tight they’d leave marks. It kept him from utterly shattering as the snow-haired beauty circled his head with her thumb. She uttered a charm under her breath, and from her palm came the sensations of incredibly warm liquid that she spread down his shaft. His other hand let go of Artemis’ against the wall in favour of reaching within her skirt toward the apex of her thighs. Her now free hand shot out toward the back of his head, her fingers now entangled with his red locks as she beckoned him back into a kiss.

Incredibly hot and wet – so above, and so below.

“Damn,” he moaned as his finger sunk into her depths, and he swallowed her moan as his tongue tangled with hers.

His hips canted as her small hand pumped his cock in the rhythm he loved, and he returned the favour as he hooked his finger inside as he slid another. The hand around his cock stuttered even as the grip in his hair tightened, her back arched as her chest pressed against his. The haze that clouded his mind lightened ever so slightly even as he burned the sight of Artemis flushed in its place.

Their gasps mixed with the beautiful obscene sounds as his fingers work her open quickly in time with the music that flowed louder from under the door. Warmth pooled within him as he panted, her hand being entirely sinful as it alternated giving his head and his shaft attention. He slipped another in and flicked up inside; her head tilted back as she gasped, offering her neck has her fingers grasped tighter in his hair.

Her wrist twisted around his cock and he groaned as he sucked something delicious at the crux of her neck. The scent of her perfume mingled with the green apple liqueur peppered with sex in the air.

Delicious. Absolutely perfect.

“I- I’m ready,” said Artemis  

Artemis’ skin bore a dark purple bruise perfectly shape where Garreth’s mouth had been; her leg hooked around the small of his back as his hand readjusted the grip. She whimpered as he kissed her temple when his fingers left the comforts of her wet folds; her skirt entirely bunched, the front of his shirt entirely a mess.

Garreth sucked off each of his fingers, the familiar taste of her on his tongue. Her forest green eyes were blow, her normally well-kept hair and attire utterly dishevelled. Her leg insisted he come closer – he obliged as fabric crumpled peripherally.

“Good girl,” he whispered against her lips as he pushed up the skirt further, readjusting his grip on her soft thigh. Pants escaped his lips as he slid his cock lightly against her wet folds, coating himself with her as her hand, that’d been so wonderfully wrapped around his cock moments ago, slipped under his shirt.

Her chest heaved in tandem with his pounding heart. Her nails ghosted his back as he lined himself to her entrance. Everything felt hot and warm and absolutely -

“Perfect,” murmured Garreth as he looked into her eyes.

They softened; he swore he saw the Slieve Guillion Forest within.

The door slammed open as the music roared.

Garreth jolted up from his waist, gasping for air as his mind scrambled. Linen bedding was under his sweaty palms as his heart beat loudly against his chest. A clear tent was pitched under the sheets as his brain caught up that no, he was not deliciously pressed against the love of his life on the wall. He was in his bed with all the deep red drapes shut, decorated with golden lions that laughed at his misery.

He was so close, he could practically feel her breath against his ear, her warmth around his fingers, her soft leg wrapped around his waist, his head lined up and -

“Garreth, you up?” Leander’s voice carried from beyond the drapery.

Garreth seriously considered violence for three seconds. He let out a grumbled noise; his cock was painfully, painfully aware it was not where it was supposed to be.

Could Leander not have waited for five bloody seconds to barge in?  

“Well hurry up. The Gryffindor-Slytherin match is going to start up in an hour, and I am not going to miss the good seats for the finals!” Leander called from beyond the proverbial veil as the cheer music bellowed from the Common Room and spilled in through the opened door.

The match. The after-party.

“The after-party’s still on, yeah?” He managed to squeeze out.

“Well, I hope so! You and Artemis are our bartenders after all.”

The concoctions were under his floorboard. He still had the green apple liqueur.

His cock twitched at the thought of what followed.

“Brilliant. Lee?”

“Yeah?” Leander’s voice came from near the other redhead’s bed. “Hurry it up, will you?”

“Sure.” He’d need less than a minute, really, once Leander stepped outside. “You mind doing bar duty tonight for a bit?”

“Yeah that’s fine.”

Brilliant.