A walk outside the castle

14/04 - I have revised and edited all the chapters up to chapter 11. It took me quite a while, as I cringed at my earlier writing. While I can't say it's perfect now, I've made significant changes. I suggest giving them a re-read if you're interested.

Enjoy the chapter :)

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As the group of teenagers walked through the grounds of the renowned wizarding school, the autumn leaves rustled underfoot, and the chill in the air made them bundle up in their robes. Tom and Jace were engrossed in a conversation, their voices carrying on the wind as they gestured animatedly. Hermione followed a few steps behind, her nose buried in a book, while Sky was looking around with her faithful pygmy puff sitting contentedly on her shoulder, occasionally receiving gentle pats.

Tom's eyes lit up with excitement, and he turned to Jace with a sudden burst of curiosity. "Hey, I completely forgot to ask you," he exclaimed. "Do you remember our Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher? I couldn't help but notice that you two were exchanging glances during class. It seemed like you knew each other."

Jace's expression changed to one of confusion after a brief pause. "Hm? Didn't I tell you about it? Yes, indeed, I knew him before our class," Jace replied. "Professor Diggory was a muggle shop owner in my town. I actually mentioned him on the train. His name is George, the kind old man I was telling you about. I was really surprised to learn that he was a wizard."

Tom nodded, recalling Jace's earlier mention of George. "Ah, yes! I remember," Tom said, a smile spreading across his face. "It's fascinating to learn that our Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher had a secret life as a muggle shop owner. No wonder you two seemed familiar with each other during class."

Hermione, who had been listening intently, chimed in with her usual curiosity. "It just goes to show that the wizarding world is full of hidden connections and surprises," she said, her eyes gleaming with excitement.

Sky, who still struggled with speaking, spoke up. "We haven't had our first Defense Against the Dark Arts lesson. What was it like?" she asked with her soft but resolute voice.

Jace, unable to contain his excitement, eagerly turned to look at Sky. "Ohh, you are so going to love it," he exclaimed. "The spells Professor Diggory described were absolutely fascinating. What really made an impression on me was the Patronus charm, a spell wizards use against dark magical creatures. Even though the professor said we won't learn it until later years, I can't wait to try it. You can even send messages with it!"

Tom nodded in agreement, his curiosity piqued. "The spell is quite amazing indeed," he said. "I've heard about the Patronus charm before and even tried to cast it a few times but I failed casting it successfully as of yet. Perks of living in a magical household."

Jace's expression showed some jealousy before it turned serious as he continued. "Although I'm sure you are not going to like the next part. The professor also emphasized how we need to learn to defend against and even kill some magical creatures in case we stumbled upon them," he said, his tone sobering.

Sky palled at that. "B-But, is there no other way? Why should we kill the magical creature? They should have taught us how to properly handle them or flee."

Jace nodded solemnly at Sky's concern. "I agree, it's not ideal," he said, his tone sympathetic. "But Professor Diggory explained that in certain situations, it may be necessary to defend ourselves against dangerous magical creatures that pose a threat to us or others."

Hermione interjected, her voice filled with empathy. "I understand your concerns, Sky," she said, looking at her friend with a reassuring smile. "But it's important to remember that we'll also learn about how to handle and respect magical creatures in our studies. Professor Diggory emphasized the importance of responsible and ethical interaction with them."

Tom, who had been listening attentively, spoke up. "Exactly," he said, nodding in agreement. "While learning to defend ourselves is crucial, we'll also be taught how to approach and handle magical creatures with care and respect. It's about finding a balance between protecting ourselves and treating magical creatures ethically. Even though we didn't have a class about Care of Magical Creatures, I'm sure the professor there will also highlight it."

Jace chimed in, his serious expression softening. "You're right," he said, looking at Sky. "I may not like the idea of having to defend against or potentially harm magical creatures, but you have to understand that it's important to be prepared for any situation."

Sky, though still apprehensive, nodded in understanding. "It's just hard to imagine having to harm any creature, even if it's in self-defense," she said softly. Sometime in the conversation, she started tightly hugging her pygmy puff.

Hermione smiled gently at Sky, understanding her friend's compassionate nature. "I feel the same way," she said softly. "But we have to remember that in the wizarding world, there are many creatures with varying levels of danger. Professor Diggory will likely teach us how to differentiate between creatures that pose a threat and those that don't."

Tom nodded in agreement. "And it's not just about defending ourselves," he said, looking at Sky and her pygmy puff. "It's also about protecting others and maintaining the balance between the magical and non-magical worlds. Sometimes, difficult decisions have to be made to ensure the safety of everyone."

As they walked through the grounds of the wizarding school, the autumn leaves swirling around them, Sky finally started feeling comfortable in her friend's presence, she felt as though a weight had been lifted off her.

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The chap turned out kinda small, whoops :P

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