An active, character-driven Hogwarts experience set in the early 2000s. Unique items, plots, and features. Non-canon; this isn't Harry Potter's story, it's ours.
Grandpa apparated them to the cemetery, his expression pensive... and a little green, but the stomach soother did its job. He had a spare for anyone else who may need it, though was especially attentive to Jaxen and Verity in that case.
Knowing what they knew now about the curse, it was far more noticeable than it otherwise would've been. In fact, they recalled several instances over the years when the adults would pay a little closer attention to the firstborns. Almost as if waiting for something to go wrong.
He wordlessly led them through the iron gates. It wasn't difficult to guess why they were there -- and while a heads up was the respectful thing to do, to prepare them for something like this, it simply wasn't in Grandpa's nature. It would break his heart too much to even say it; they were lucky to have made it this far. He was getting stronger in his coping, it seemed.
'Over here,' he said quietly, as if to raise one's voice in such a place was considered rude.
The cemetery was just as quiet, and almost eerie. It was for a mix of muggles and magic; there was no separation of blood status for things like this, not here. They were all the same once buried; loved ones no longer with us. It was huge too, with a few magical expansions only caught by those also magically-inclined.
It took some time to work out which section they were going to, but Grandpa walked the path as if he'd done so a thousand times before. Every pebble, every little rose bush, and every overhanging tree was familiar to him. They knew Grandma did not like things like this; reminders of the loss. And Aubrey never came here, not even able to face the fact that Marcus was gone at all.
What was to be concluded, than that that Grandpa must come here quite often? And alone.
Until today, at least. The Ashworths had grown up not even being able to talk about their fathers, a rule often broken since a young age in a yearning to at least see there they were buried. Yearning for that connection, for whatever reprieve or comfort it may bring them. It was also, quite harshly, shut down --and they eventually stopped asking.
This was the first time they'd been here. All those years, and they hadn't even visited their fathers' resting place. The children weren't sure if any of them had even attended the funeral; there were conflicting stories on that.
Grandpa came to a somber stop. And there they were -- the cold, polished marble of the tombstones. Their names and dates of birth / death were sharp, in many ways. It was also a confirmation that Marcus was indeed the older brother, by one year. They died the same day.
There was a bear's paw engraved on Marcus', which also had remnants of dried flowers at the base -- tokens of others who knew him. Conrad's was engraved with a rune, which Grandpa had whispered to be the rune for fire. And that Conrad was ever so fond of his wand core, having come from a Phoenix. Grandma had chosen in hope he may rise safely to whatever awaited him beyond this life.
The tombstones were their most tangible evidence of what they'd lost. Marcus and Conrad were right there, yet so far away. After a few attempts to speak, Grandpa cleared his throat and composed himself enough to get through this. It was their fathers, but those were both of his sons. His only children.
'Grandma and I picked this one.' He touched Conrad's inscription.
A beloved father, above all else. The last puzzle that shall be solved is that of the beyond.
'Aubrey, this one...' His fingers trailed over Marcus' inscription.
Til death do us part knows not of our love. He lives on in their eyes, always.
Weighed down by his emotions, Grandpa crouched on the grass a respectful distance from the tombstones. He got out his wand, conjuring flowery wreaths for each. But at no point did he lose himself to the moment and his own grief, as he was attentive to what he was doing here today -- to the gift he was giving the children.
A part of a closure so badly needed, and so often asked yet denied to them. No one else had the strength to do this, and Grandpa wasn't sure he did either. But it was important, and he felt now they were old enough to endure it with him. They were owed this.
He knew each of them so well. Grandpa reached for Verity, seeking her hand and nudging her to join him on the grass -- placing her squarely in front of Conrad's tombstone. He did the same for Reena, tugging her as well to sit in front of Marcus'. Of all the children, each affected in their own way, it was the daughters who struggled the most to move toward.
'Daddy's here,' Grandpa reassured them the best he could. 'This is a safe place. Let it out. Talk to them. I've always believed they can hear us. And if you'd like a moment alone, you will be given it.'
It was all he could muster, his own tears spilling. But he let them, because they needed to know that was okay. It was okay to cry for their loss. All four of them were finally here, and how they coped with that was entirely up to them.
The area was quiet and the air still, as if granting them privacy. With the exception of a dark-clothed figure off to the side, standing alone and watchful as if not daring to interrupt the family's moment. Their posture was slumped, sharing the same depths of grief they felt. It was a strangely unifying place.
'This was his,' Grandpa added, shakily reaching into a pocket of his coat (he'd transfigured his robes to be Muggle-worthy before entering). 'It's Chestnut, with Phoenix Feather.'
He drew out a wand, delicately as if it might disappear before him. It was rather beautiful, and a rich brown. Though intact, there was a black scorching at the tip -- as if it'd backfired so badly it damaged the wand itself. He gave it one final look, then placed it in front of Verity. Her choice to accept it, or simply acknowledge it.
'It can't much do magic anymore,' Grandpa added. 'I just thought... Conrad, he took most of his belongings with him. What remains, Grandma does not wish to part with yet. I feel like this belongs to you, and to Ezra. Should you wish to keep it, in memory. He would want you to have it.'
He teared his gaze from it, and gave both Reena then Jaxen a deeply apologetic look.
'Marcus' wand... it was never recovered.' He bowed his head in shame, as if he had failed them in some way. 'I'm not sure if Aubrey has it? If so, she won't...'
And with that, Grandpa stood from the grass and backed away to give them the time and space to be alone with the tombstones. Yet united in their grief.
Post by Reena Ashworth on Feb 23, 2023 7:19:00 GMT 10
In hindsight it seemed so obvious that the adults had paid special attention to Jaxen and Verity. And since knowing about the curse, she caught herself do the same.
However, in this moment, after apparating, she was too distracted by popping up somewhere unexpected. She realised what this strange place was and after the initial shock had subsided, she had but one thought:
She wasn’t ready.
How often had she asked to be taken her, how often had her request been shut down?
And now, that she, that they all finally got to go, after losing all hope this day would ever come… She wasn’t ready.
But still, Reena followed her grandfather onto the cemetery.
It was surreal, being here. Time seemed to speed up and slow down at once.
She tried to lock eyes with her siblings every so often but whether she had been successful or not, was all forgotten by the time they arrived at the grave.
So… This was it then. A life compressed to two dates. Carved into cold, hard, unfeeling stone.
Reena stared at the inscriptions on the marble tombstones, listening to their grandpa‘s explanation.
Despite having the imprint of her dad back home, and since this morning knowing of the painting, being here and seeing the gravesite for the first time… It seemed so final. Like admitting that he truly was gone, despite his best efforts to preserve his consciousness for them.
Before she knew what had happened, she was sat on the grass in front of her father’s grave. Seeing Verity being sat in front of Conrad’s… Reena had never felt more distant from her sister… Her cousin.
She wanted to reach out to her but her hand wouldn’t move as she wanted it to.
‘Lives on in their eyes‘… Who’s eyes? Kody‘s?
Their mother could barely look at them.
Reena had refused to give her mother a proper hug goodbye after the way she had once again made Kody feel. And now he wasn’t here, robbed from this somber moment.
She wondered, if she was supposed to cry. Her eyes had never felt more dry. It stung.
Crying with grandpa… It might be therapeutic to cry and mourn together, as a family.
But Reena did not want therapy. She just wanted her dad.
What grandpa had said, about believing they could hear him… She liked that thought. But she did not believe it. There was no way to reach them. They were gone. Just gone.
Her grandfather said something else and she looked up to see him show a wand to Verity and Ezra. But she did not quite catch what he said. It was as though her head was underwater.
And she only broke back through the surface when grandpa addressed her and Jax.
“It‘s okay,“ she heard herself say. It was not okay.
But it was not grandpa‘s fault.
She felt like hourglass sand. Whenever she thought things were settling down, the glass was turned around again and she was going through it once more. No escape.
Was this what her mum felt like, she wondered.
Reena noticed she had been stroking at her eyebrow when a small sigh escaped her.
Uncertain what to do now that she had gotten what she had wanted for a long time, she started to pluck the grass around her knees and took in the tombstones once more, as though taking a mental image of them with all their details.
Post by Verity Ashworth on Feb 23, 2023 12:36:52 GMT 10
Verity steadied herself. Apparation was never one of her preferred ways to travel, and she doubted that it would change in the future. She gratefully accepted the stomach soother offered by her grandfather, realizing suddenly that he was paying more attention not only to her, but also to Jaxen.
She wondered if her grandfather had always shown such care over her and Jaxen and not the others. Had she really been so blind to not notice it? Or perhaps she had just assumed that what went for her, went for everyone else. If Grandma or Grandpa had a favourite grandchild, Verity doubted they would make it clear.
She felt like screaming into a pillow. All her efforts to find out what was hidden from her and she hadn't seen something so obvious.
Verity was a little surprised to be at the cemetery after all these years. Everyone always said that her dad and uncle were dead, but no one had talked about what happened afterwards. Verity had always assumed that they were buried somewhere far away, or maybe they'd been cremated.
But no, there were the graves. Verity read the inscriptions, but she didn't really comprehend the words, or the fire rune. She was just a little shocked to be seeing the graves after all this time.
She allowed herself to be nudged to sit in front of her father's grave. She reached out to touch the words, as if that would somehow make everything okay. She sniffled, immediately wishing that...what? That she hadn't come here? No, that wasn't it. She wished that her dad hadn't died, of course. She wished she remembered him more, that he had had a chance to see her go to Hogwarts or do anything grown up.
She swiped at the tears on her face, feeling deeply uncomfortable. She knew her dad was dead. Why did it hurt so much to see his grave?
Verity picked up the wand once it was settled in front of her, and cradled it gently. Her father's, scorched. What type of magic had he been working with that caused such harsh damage?
"Phoenix feather..." Verity repeated in a soft mumble, still crying, "Like mine."
Would he have been proud of her, for having the same wand core? She tried to picture the scene in her head. Verity stared at the wand. Her father's. Wow.
You can continue reacting to the cemetery stuff at the start of your post if you haven't already, even though we're now moving onto Diagon Alley. This includes revisiting some thing, such as if you have further questions about anything from the cemetery portion of this thread.
It was a while before they left the cemetery, which explained why Grandpa wanted to begin this trip earlier than they usually went.
This time, instead of apparating, they took the Knight Bus. A familiar experience for Reena and Jaxen, who first rode the magical mode of transportation over Christmas, but a newer concept for Verity and Ezra. Ada Soots wasn't working today, but Grandpa preferred a seat right up the top and to themselves.
Giving Verity and Ezra an incorrect perspective of how the bus operated, they hadn't flown out of their seats no matter the bangs and sudden turns. Reena and Jaxen suspected Grandpa had something to do with that, as his wand was in hand. He rather enjoyed the entire ride, washing away a bit of his more somber mood from earlier.
--
Diagon Alley was exactly as they remembered it: magical, in many ways, and quite busy. Friends reunited, families squabbled together, and some older witches were dotted about gossiping over one thing or another. Owls flew overhead constantly, and just the general atmosphere meant they were in for an eventful day.
Hopefully not as eventful as what happened over Christmas.
'Right. Where to first?' Grandpa wondered, eagerly eyeing their options. He was rather giddy now, not just for his love of shopping in general but because this time he has the kids along for their own little family outing. It'd been far too long.
He pat an enchanted pouch at his side, which they'd seen Grandma with often -- it seemed small, but was bigger inside and was used to carry Galleons spent on bigger trips or some of their many mysterious dealings around the world.
'How about robes. Get those out of the way, eh?' Grandpa led the way to Madam Malkin's Robes for All Occasions. 'I think I'll see what else they have too; Grandma's been wanting a new winter cloak.'
'Hogwarts?' Madam Malkin herself greeted them, as if their arrival was expected. She was a rosy-cheeked, silver-haired, squat woman dressed in mauve. 'Right this way.'
She gestured to several blocks for them to stand on. The store was a big bigger than they remembered, though last year Aubrey had taken them and refused to set foot inside so Jaxen had to wrangle everyone and ended up rushing through the whole process as it'd been crowded that day. This time, they were the only ones there besides a few browsers near the more fashionable section.
Grandpa handed Malkin a piece of parchment that Aubrey had given him -- containing Kody's size and further notes for what they were buying today. Then he headed to that high-fashion area, looking for something Grandma would enjoy. Apparently, this was something he could afford?
Ezra was measured first, being the smallest and with only the standard Hogwarts robes and cloaks needed. His measurements (done by an enchanted tape measure) were rather simple, same as last time. But when Malkin and another attendee measured the others -- they were more complex, as apparently the order included brand new dress robes for each of them. Four in total.
And again, Grandpa didn't have the slightest reaction to that, even when it was easily a rather costly request. This was news to the kids, but in hindsight their grandparents were always well-dressed, travelled all over the globe most of the year, and not once could they recall a single instance of concern over money.
They had their own vaults, but hadn't seen them in a while and didn't know how to compare if it was a lot or average or even less than standard. Most of the time, if they needed money, someone (grandparents or Aubrey) would retrieve it for them. The reason given was for convenience, but also that Verity and Jaxen often got very ill on those carts.
'Now then, dress robes,' Malkin said, interrupting any wandering minds. 'Each of you, what are your colour preferences? We have some lovely new royal silk in today, and of course here at Madam Malkin's we have a whole range of modern or traditional styles. Whatever takes your fancy. The order specifies your own personal touch and choice.'
She bought some catalogues over for Verity, Reena, and Jaxen to look at. Even with two older siblings, Verity didn't really understand why dress robes were even necessary? They weren't on her shopping list. What were they for?
Though she may have heard a few whispers or gossip, most older students had a bit of an unspoken agreement to not spoil the surprise (of the Founder's Ball) for younger students, who first learn of it and can attend in 4th year. This was Verity and Kody's year, just as it had been Reena's the one before.
Reena and Jaxen got dress robes last year, which could be modified to still fit. If they preferred to keep those, they were more than welcome to and Madam Malkin said as much. But they were also allowed to buy new ones -- a decision entirely up to them, and what they wanted to wear. Any bought today would last them a few years as they were much higher quality -- given the previous ones were very last-minute, and mostly guesswork.
Ezra didn't need dress robes at all, but an attendee led him over to a specialised equipment section to pick out a rather lovely pair of earmuffs. He had his Herbology Kit, which came with some standard ones, but apparently there were much nicer ones available and it was always good to have a spare.
Post by Reena Ashworth on Feb 25, 2023 8:48:37 GMT 10
“What was dad’s wand?“, she asked after giving Verity and Ezra time to inspect Conrad’s.
Reena had found her composure again, watching her younger siblings and grandfather interact. This almost felt normal.
She doubted it would have been anything like hers. Like to admit it or not, she took most after their mum.
Kody took most after him, yet for the longest time when she had tried to imagine her dad, his image had been muddled with Jaxen.
“Was he Papa Bear to Jaxen‘s Little Bear?“, she nodded towards his tombstone.
If only they could get into mum’s studio and talk to the painting none of them had known existed. Then she could sort of ask him these things, instead of getting her information second hand.
- -
The Knight Bus ride had been too smooth to be natural and Reena was still dwelling on what sort of spell Grandpa may have performed to ensure this and also why the bus did not have that kind of magic built in in the first place, when the entered Madam Malkin‘s.
For some reason she got flustered when the enchanted tape measure flew around her, and it took her a moment to realise they were getting more than just school robes.
It felt wrong somehow, but amazing at the same time, feeling the silk that was offered to her for new dress robes. She was fairly certain last year’s would still fit, she hadn’t grown all that much this year, and considered Madam Malkin‘s offer.
She loved the ones Grandma had picked for her. But Grandpa did not seem the slightest bit concerned, so she figured she should not let this opportunity pass to get another set of fancy clothes.
She also gave Verity an encouraging nod, albeit remaining quiet about what joys awaited her at the Founders‘ Frivolity in preparation for the Ball.
She vividly recalled just how awkward it had been to learn to dance with Arthur, and he was one of the sweetest guys she had met.
No, Verity would find all that out herself.
When asked her colour preference, she hesitated. Blue and green, as Grandma had picked for her last year, were actually her preferred colours. Turquoise being her favourite.
“A mint green in more modern style?“, she was still a little uncertain if she truly should order one.
She would actually love some floral elements on that but perhaps that would get too expensive for her grandparents.
Post by Verity Ashworth on Feb 26, 2023 2:15:37 GMT 10
Verity rode the Knight Bus without a thought to the ride. She spent most of it looking out the window and wondering where they would stop first. She wasn't new to trips to Diagon Alley, but she couldn't stop thinking about the graveyard and her father's wand, which remained safely on her lap throughout the ride.
She followed Grandpa to Madam Malkin's, thinking about the school robes she would undoubtably be fidgeting or messing with during the school year. She noted that there weren't too many people around, which was a little interesting. Maybe they'd gotten it done before and Verity and her family had arrived.
Verity stood still while she was measured. If she was going to have to wear the dull Hogwarts robes, she could at least wear ones that fit correctly.
She raised an eyebrow at the mention of dress robes. What on earth was she going to need those for? Verity didn't think they had anything fancy coming up.
"What are they for?" Verity said, considering her options. "How am I supposed to pick if I don't even know what I'm getting all dressy for?"
She was leaning towards a more modern style. She wondered what the maximum amount of sparkles was for dress robes. She flipped through the catalog and mostly found herself looking at the more colorful options, ones that some people might consider garish but Verity decided were more along the lines of 'eye-popping.'
She was grateful for the chance to express herself, but she'd hardly ever seen anyone wearing dress robes around Hogwarts, and she doubted she would wear them to class. Her curiosity was telling her to keep pressing at the issue, even if it seemed everyone (including Reena, her own cousin!) wasn't going to tell her.
Post by Jaxen Ashworth on Feb 26, 2023 10:04:09 GMT 10
Jaxen stumbled as they apparated, his stomach turning over and he took a deep breath to settle himself. It made him dread the thought of learning how to apparate for himself later in the school year- providing his mother gave him permission to attend lessons in the first place. Knowing what he knew now, that didn't seem very likely.
He turned down his grandpa's offer of a stomach soother, his skin crawling at the extra attention he seemed to pay to himself and to Verity. Had it always been this way? With the adults watching them, waiting for something to happen? Jax had never noticed before, but now he was acutely aware of it and he found that he did not like it.
Looking around, his heart gave a lurch upon realizing where they were. The eerie silence that settled over this place, it was an atmosphere unlike any other. One that could only be found in the place where hundreds of souls were laid to rest, where one felt as though they should not raise their voice above a whisper for fear of disturbing those that slumbered eternally beneath the soil.
There was only one reason why their Grandpa would bring them here. Jax had spent much of his life yearning for it, longing to visit his father's resting place, to pay his respects as well as to seek some semblance of closure. Yet, now that he was here, he found his mouth had grown uncomfortably dry.
Following his Grandpa through the gates, he kept his hands stuffed into his pockets. Gaze tracing the headstones of so many, some were weathered and worn, the words etched upon the stone barely readable and indicative of their age, whilst others were evidently newer. These were the ones which he could read, names of people he didn't know, inscriptions from those who had loved them in life. Parting words that read 'darling mother', 'beloved son', 'forever missed'.
He swallowed the lump in his throat and blinked back tears. It seemed that dying was easy, it was never the dead that suffered, only those left behind to grieve.
They stopped and Jaxen held his breath as he looked past his Grandpa. Seeing the tombstones, he was met with a feeling that mirrored what he'd felt upon seeing the memorial at the ministry. A deep aching grief that pressed in from all sides, shocking him with its heaviness.
He chewed on his lip as he read the inscription on his father's headstone. Blinking back tears, he could not stop them from falling as he stepped closer, and crouched beside the headstone. Tracing the bear paws engraved upon the marble surface, reminding him of his own family nickname and of his bear paw gloves that were currently lying neatly in his trunk at home.
"Hi dad..." he muttered, his voice breaking as he spoke the words.
Shoulders slumping as he stared at headstone, he did not believe that his father could hear him. But it supposedly brought comfort to speak to those that were gone as if they could still hear you. Jax didn't know how that was supposed to work, especially now when his father felt further away than ever.
He was gone. Dead.
It was then that the tears began to fall. It was cruel, that their fathers had been taken from them so brutally, robbing them of the opportunity to truly know them. They barely even had memories to recall, and the people in their lives who did have those memories to treasure, couldn't even bring themselves to share them.
And now they were faced with the revelation that some kind of curse had been at fault for all of this. That there was a possibility that it would claim more lives- his life? Verity's? He swallowed. It was the living that suffered. His mother, his siblings, his grandparents. Dropping his hand from the marble headstone, his fingers curled into the grass and he felt earth cake beneath his fingernails.
Looking up as his Grandpa revealed his uncle's wand, gifting it to Ezra and Verity... His own hopes of such a token were quickly dashed and he swallowed the bitter disappointment. The charred end of Conrad's wand, it made Jax question whether his father's wand had survived at all... If it hadn't, what kind of powerful magic had been at fault and... Was there even much of a body to recover?
The thought made him nauseous, more-so than the apparition and anything else he might be faced with that day.
Wiping away his tears, he got to his feet and stuffed his hands back into his pockets. He had seen his fathers final resting place, he knew where he was now and that he was safe cocooned beneath the ground, in a place where they could visit.
The dead did not suffer. He kept reminding himself.
When they eventually left the cemetery, Jaxen was initially distrustful of the Knightbus considering his stomach already felt a little uneasy following the events of the morning. However, it seemed as though he had little need to worry, as the journey was not nearly as eventful as he remembered it being. He never once left his seat and didn't have to hold on for dear life- maybe travelling with his Grandpa had more than a few benefits.
--
Diagon Alley was busy and Jax found that despite the fact that he was missing his friends, he hoped that he would not run into anyone he knew today. He did not wish for them to see the redness of his eyes and deduce that he had been crying, that would be embarrassing for all parties involved.
Grandpa's mood seemed greatly improved though and Jax was glad for that, he hated to see his Grandparents upset. Their first destination seemed to be Madam Malkin's, and he followed along willingly. He assumed that he would need new school robes anyway, every year he was astonished to find how quickly he grew out of his clothes- although he suspected that soon that would begin to change, he had to be almost done growing at sixteen.
The shop was mostly empty once they stepped inside and Jax allowed himself to breathe a sigh of relief. Although with Grandpa here, he would not have to work nearly as hard to ensure everyone got everything they needed.
After he had been measured for his robes, the topic of dress robes came up and he thought back to the robes he had worn to the ball last year, his cheeks burning at the memory. He had forgotten about that, would he be expected to go again? Surely he must, at least to see that Verity and Kody enjoyed themselves and had someone familiar to approach if they began to feel overwhelmed.
Looking through the catalogues offered, he pondered what might suit him best. "I think I liked the style of my previous dress robes" he admitted sheepishly, not knowing how much this was going to cost them. "But maybe a different colour? Teal?"
His last robes had been a beautiful forest green, and he didn't want to stray too far from that. Green seemed to suit him, but teal also had a blue element that related back to his place in Ravenclaw.
Verity's words made him smile, laughing at how she seemed to be trying to get answers that obviously would not come. "It's a surprise" he reassured her "Just pick something you like and I promise, you'll like it"
Even if the ball wasn't his usual idea of fun, he knew his young cousin had wildly different interests than he did, and he couldn't wait to see how she and Kody reacted to hearing about the founders ball.
Last Edit: Feb 26, 2023 13:12:11 GMT 10 by Lena: Readability
It was certainly their longest trip to Madam Malkin's, but everyone took the time and care needed to ensure the kids had the dress robes they wanted -- while also accounting for Kody, in his absence. Their school robes and cloaks were packaged and handed off, while Malkin promised the custom-designed dress robes will be made and sent by September 1st.
Grandpa bought his gift for Grandma, which was also packaged. He then handed off quite a lot of gold, more than the kids had ever seen outside of a vault, and he did so with such casual ease. Malkin appreciated their business, and bowed them out of the shop.
While checking the list for where to go next, Grandpa gave Reena a gentle smile.
'Your father's wand was Elder wood,' he said, while fishing out some Galleons. 'Unicorn Hair. Ah, this should do it.'
He handed twelve Galleons off to Jaxen.
'For your apparition lessons,' Grandpa explained. 'That's this year, right? In case Your mother... well.'
In case she forgot, or perhaps even if she forbade it? Grandpa didn't elaborate, but it was permission and means -- Jaxen would be able to take those lessons, which were an important part of his magical education as well as everything that came after it.
'I'd sign your forms, if I could, but I don't wish to overstep. Not sure we'd count anyway,' he added, sighing. 'We're lucky to have today. Speaking of, where to next?'
After consulting the list, Grandpa took them to the Apacathary for everyone to restock their ingredients for the year ahead. While the others browsed and handled their own lists, he remained close with Jaxen as added support and to make sure everything was included -- since he was headed into N.E.W.T year... and with Professor Snape still teaching.
'I'd get extra of those three.' He pointed out. 'Your dad always got extras. And feel free to grab some more vials. Fragile things.'
--
They stopped by a vendor for some lunch -- some sort of steamed rolls with delicious Mexican-style fillings. Grandpa smiled while they sat at a table together to eat, as if his mind was elsewhere -- drifted to find memories, likely with his sons.
Quite the trip down memory late, today.
'Books.' Grandpa huffed, giving Flourish and Blotts a critical look. 'All right. You all have your lists. I need to run a few short errands, won't be long. I'll be back before you know it. Make sure you get everything on your list, but you're welcome to browse and get some personal books as well.'
Grandpa nodded, adjusting his appearance as he was off to a meeting.
'And do not forget all the other essentials,' he added, pointing sternly at them. 'Quills, ink, parchment. Lots and lots of parchment. Reena and Jaxen, get as many as you desire or need. But no matter what, everyone is to stay inside the shop. We clear? Good. Have fun.'
He hurried off up the street, leaving Jaxen and Reena in charge.
Ezra was fortunate that all he needed was his Defensive textbook, and the Standard Book of Spells (grade two). Verity had double the workload, as she was shopping for Kody as well. They both needed their defensive book, and grade four spellbook, but then the Care of Magical Creatures and Divination textbooks -- one each, respectively.
Reena also needed her Defensive textbook, standard spellbook (Grade five, of course), and a Divination textbook.
It was Jaxen that had all the work to do; most of his textbooks were entirely new, suited for a range of subjects. His Potions and Transfiguration textbooks even had "Advanced" in the name. His grade six spellbook was at least still standard and expected. Then it was just his Divination textbook, and the Academics workbook -- which was quite the different request, added to the fact it was a brand new class for him.
It wasn't on any list, nor had Grandpa mentioned it, but it was also expected that Jaxen and Verity would guy a new sketchpads as well. Art supplies were not really sold here, besides a few basic inks or special quills with intimidating prices, but the sketchbooks were a must. And the range was quite pleasing to look at.
They had plenty of chance to not only get what they needed, but also browse for a while and truly explore the store (while waving off helpful storekeepers who worried they looked lost), before Grandpa finally returned -- with a stack of packages similar to those they received after having bought something. Quite a few errands, then.
'How is everyone doing?' He checked in on each of them, supportive of their interests and saying "yes" to every request they made.
Then he saw the book Reena looked at -- the contents of which were rather complicated, yet had a lot of diagrams and referenced others books, namely for rune translation and historical second-hand accounts. It wasn't especially useful, but it looked like a decent enough foundation for the general concepts and known studies.
'Interesting choice,' he said, indeed suspicious. 'But, I suppose, if your dad could take it upon himself to have at least ten different books on Roman mythology, then I daresay his daughter is warranted the same allowance for obscure interests.'
Grandpa gave her a wink, though his gaze quickly shifted away. If he knew where her line of thinking was going, he didn't comment on it. But there was no mistaking the hint of worry in his big, sad eyes. Still, he let her get the book.
--
It was later in the afternoon when they finished up their shopping, and gathered for some magical ice cream outside Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlour. While they were seated under a flashy umbrella to enjoy the sweet reward, of which Grandpa also got one in a cup with a lid (saved for Kody)... it was then that they discovered what kind of errands he'd run.
Or at least, some of them, given how long he was gone for.
'For you,' Grandpa said, carefully handing a rather long package to Ezra.
Inside was a stunning handheld telescope. A bit big for a twelve year old, but he would grow to get used to it and make ease of his star-gazing with time. It had intricate designs and was easily worth a pretty Galleon. The telescope had a golden sheen to it, and the lens were adjustable in at least a dozen ways.
His name was even engraved in shining silver along the rim -- a personal touch, for sure, but also likely in the case of theft or otherwise.
'Do you think Kody will like this? There was some sort of event going on at the beast store.' Grandpa held up a colourful "Beast Ally" sweater. 'This one is for you two. I can't wait to see what you create with them.'
He handed two packages of similar size and weight to both Jaxen and Verity. Inside were brand new art supplies. And the good stuff, clearly from a specialised store they hadn't heard of. They were each tailored to their artistic preferences as well, with more paints for Jaxen and more sketching inks for Verity.
'Last, but never least, our darling Prefect.' Grandpa placed a rather large package in front of Reena, which absolutely had a lightweight charm on it.
Inside was a basic Potion Master's kit. The kind that real, professional brewers use. It wasn't stocked with ingredients, but contained a variety of top-of-the-range equipment -- including a new set of collapsible scales, and even a rare silver self-stirring rod. The mahogany box, adorned with leather, was also had her name engraved inside the lid.
Reena's was easily the most expensive, mainly because of the particular interest and skills she had warranted proper equipment, but also in celebration of her academic achievement of becoming a Prefect. Grandpa was grinning from ear to ear as he handed out the gifts, relishing the chance to spoil them. He had ten years of limited contact to make up for, after all. So many missed family trips, because Aubrey hadn't allowed them.
'We should head home, before it gets any later.' Grandpa was nervous about the time now, not wanting their joyous moment to be short-lived if Aubrey thought they were gone for too long. He tidied up Ezra's face, then they gathered their things and headed to the apparition point just outside from the Leaky Cauldron.
-- You may continue to wrap / RP Diagon Alley stuff even though this thread was moved. --
Grandpa glanced cautiously along the street as they'd returned to Puddles Way. Something in the air was tense, and he drew his wand rather tiredly. There were raised voices growing closer as they walked, which originated from right outside the Ashworth home.
'Merlin's beard, what now?' Grandpa sighed, putting away his wand.
Grandma and Aubrey were in the street, though just tucked enough inside the boundary warding that their shouts didn't carry to any poor, unsuspecting neighbours. Their only previous audience being the ginger cat, who licked its paws from the front step. The fact they were out front was odd enough, but by their ongoing argument it seemed the Ashworths had an unexpected visitor while the rest were out shopping.
'How many times has he visited, in the past decade?' Grandma asked, clearly beyond frustrated but not quite yelling as she'd done at the start of the summer.
'I don't know.' Aubrey huffed, a spring of mixed herbs in hand and an apple in another. 'At least once a year. I keep telling them not to bother, but do they listen? No, of course not.'
'A visitor?' Grandpa asked, concerned.
'The Ministry.' Grandma waved it off, despite when previously such a topic wasn't even spoken aloud in case it upset anyone or brought up bad memories. 'Apparently, Aubrey has yet to enact Marcus' will.'
'As if you've enacted Conrad's,' Aubrey muttered.
'That's different, and you know it,' Grandma said sharply. 'He stashed his away, and the Ministry haven't got the updated version on record. If we could find it, we'd enact it. The children deserve as much. Aubrey, honey, I know it's painful to accept that Marcus is gone, I understand, but his will is owed--'
'You don't understand,' Aubrey cut in, gaze fierce and so unlike her usual self. 'Marcus and I have a plan.'
'A plan you refuse to share.' Grandma sighed. 'I just don't understand why the secrecy, after the fact.'
'Perhaps I should get the kids inside?' Grandpa offered. 'If you insist on airing this, at least let me remove them from the situation. We had a rather lovely trip to Diagon Alley and I don't wish it to be spoiled.'
Aubrey blinked, as if just realising they were there. She sighed, closing her eyes for a moment, then nodded.
'Of course, head inside, my darlings,' Aubrey said, tone immediately softening. 'Unless you wish to stay, as apparently I have no authority in my own home. No capability to be a mother or treated as such. As an adult, who knows far more about all of this than anyone.'
Grandma and Grandpa exchanged surprised looks.
'Aubrey, are you all right?' Grandpa asked, glancing at the herbs in her hand. 'Have you been experimenting again?'
'That would be a nice change,' Grandma added, hope lighting her gaze. 'We've missed you. The old Aubrey.'
'She died with... Marcus,' Aubrey said, serious and emotive. 'It's like I was underwater, screaming to be heard. But you were all looking for someone who no longer exists, so you couldn't see me. My own children do not recognise me.'
She looked directly at Reena, then to Verity.
'No matter how many times the Ministry show up, no matter what you may think you know about how they died, I will never enact that will,' Aubrey stated, very firmly. 'Marcus provided them with everything they need. The rest can wait. Now please, I appreciate you being here today, but I would a few more dinners with my children before September.'
Aubrey's focus faltered, as did her balance. The herbs turned to dust, and she collapsed -- caught by those who rushed to her. Grandma fanned her face, and Aubrey gradually regained her composure. Grandpa fussed over her, but Grandma looked where the herbs had been. She was putting it together.
She then turned to the children, her expression teary-eyed and shocked.
'You know now, don't you?' Grandma asked them. 'If she has pushed herself this hard, for a moment of clarity for some strange business over a will, and the things she said... something must have changed. You know the truth.'
Aubrey was on her feet as if nothing happened, yet confused why everyone was standing around in the front yard. Grandma and Grandpa reluctantly gave the kids a kiss and cuddle each, with Grandpa handing off Kody's gift and ice cream for one of the others to deliver,.
Then they took their leave, with the promise to write -- and wishing them a wonderful new term at Hogwarts. Grandpa clearly didn't want to go, having hoped to have dinner with them at least, but Grandma whispered something in his sear. Whatever it was, it convinced him. He waved at them, with sheer love in his gaze. And then they headed over the hill, and vanished.
'Oh look, dinner.' Aubrey, dazed once again, smiled at the apple still in her hand. She took a bite from it, and made her way back into the house. 'Kody, darling, they're home.'
The sky, ever-darkening, rumbled as if to match the mood. The gloomy weather looked down upon them, as if to truly imprint on them that the summer was indeed drawing to a close. Rain began to patter down from the sky, inconsiderate of their packages or otherwise.
Post by Kody Ashworth on Feb 27, 2023 4:22:54 GMT 10
The day had dragged on, from Kody's point of view anyway.
He had spent most of the morning in his shared bedroom. Of course, he wouldn't dare mess with any of Reena's stuff.
Instead, Kody had settled on the floor with his slim collection of Chocolate Frog Cards. There weren't a lot but he was patient.
His collection would grow.
The one duplicate card he owned would be carefully tucked away and Kody would trade it at school for something he didn't have. He smiled at the thought.
His grandma called him down for lunch, which was a simple but tasty affair. When he had ate his fill, careful not to mention Quidditch or Hogsmeade, he hurried out into the garden.
Most of his afternoon would be spent watching the butterflies. He sat on the grass, trying to spot some new kind or guess what they were called. He needed a book on butterflies now…
Voices from the front street caught his attention and Kody hesitated in the hallway between the kitchen and the front door.
He never enjoyed when things went like this but before he could make up his mind, he could hear the rest of his family arrive home.
Kody turned to head towards the garden again, casually loitering at the back door.
Waiting and listening, Kody hoped someone would come inside soon. He saw his mum first and glanced to look at her face, her words making him swallow a lump in his throat.
"Great." He answered, wishing he had had a chance to say goodbye to his grandparents but they were gone.
"Did you have a good day…?" This question was asked to his siblings in general, for anyone to answer.
Hopefully the shouting match between their mum and grandma didn't ruin things.
Post by Reena Ashworth on Feb 27, 2023 6:30:30 GMT 10
Reena practically beamed at her grandfather when he got her the book. She managed to ignore the hint of suspicion she thought she had spotted in his eyes. She appreciated the small piece of information about her father's obsession with the Romans, eventhough it wasn't exactly news to her.
When they finished off their day out with some ice cream, she happily chose some raspberry flavored one for her, with white chocolate-lemon pops. She enjoyed the little explosions of sour and sweet on her tongue, as Grandpa finally revealed what he had been up to while he had left them at Flourish and Blotts:
Buying each of them very thoughtful gifts.
She felt her chest warm up when she was given hers, and a small gasp escaped her when she unpacked it.
"Grandpa! I... Thank you!"
Reena was at a loss for words. And moved to tears, although she quickly blinked them away. Now she couldn't wait to go home and inspect it in the privacy of her and Kody's shared room. She knew exactly what she was going to use it for first. Perhaps she'd even invite Ezra to join her in doing so, she had rather enjoyed that day they had brewed a Freeze Potion together.
--
When they returned to Puddles Way, Reena's smile gradually vanished, as did the small spring in her step. By the time they were home, they were met with an agitaed argument between their grandmother and mother and Reena stopped short of the boundary, uncertain about how to proceed.
She was worried about Ezra and Verity overhearing this but did not usher them past the adults.
She was not sure what was going on, or why her mother refused to enact Dad's will. She was with grandma on this, a will was a will after all, it was literally what her dad had wanted. They knew from Conrad's journal that it was about eight pages long.
But there was something about her mother, that made her stop. She was different, more like the woman she had been in Gringott's, more herself.
Reena found it difficult to listen to them arguing, while her mind raced towards where uncle Conrad may have stowed his most recent will. Surely in that cottage, deep in whatever forest, only accessible by an Ashworth?
She was snapped out of it when her mother's tone softened.
Reena did not trust that at all.
And it appeared it had been for good reason. Next thing she knew her mother was lashing out deep cutting facts like a knife weilding cobra.
She could feel her heart fluttering in her chest, as she desperately wished to escape the situation. And yet she found her feet rooted into place. She could not even gesture at Verity and Ezra to head inside, like she wanted to.
Their grandparents' hopeful inquiries about the herbs... And then...
It was as though her heart stopped for a moment and Reena had to avert her eyes. The wind had been knocked out of her by her mother's words and piercing gaze.
This was the Hufflepuff mirror all over again. Only much, much worse.
"Mum, I...", her mouth felt too dry to speak, her voice cracking.
There was nothing to say anyway.
And then, her mum lost balance. Reena looked up when she saw the unexpected movement, it was like she was watching in slow-motion. She was not one to rush forward to catch her.
'You know, don't you?', Grandma asked them.
Reena could feel her jaw tense up, cocking her chin defiantly, as she held her gaze for what felt like eternity, yet could not have been more then a few seconds. She nodded at last, tears in her eyes.
There was so much that needed saying. And yet, there were no words in any language she could use to express herself in this moment.
She wordlessly accepted the gifts and supplies for Kody as she hugged her grandparents goodbye, desperate to keep them here, yet glad to have them leave at the same time.
She then hurried to get out of the rain, saving her packages and goods from a watery destruction from above.
"Uh-huh," she answered Kody's question, dropping his ice cream and new sweater off into his hands.
"I'm not hungry, I...", it was hard to keep the tremble out of her voice as she looked around to find Jaxen's gaze. "I'm sorry," she breathed.
Reena found it in her to gently shut the door to her room behind her as she finally escaped, neatly place hers and Kody's school supplies on top of their respective trunks and then -
She let herself fall into her bed face first.
The thing Mum had said about screaming underwater stubbornly replayed inside her mind, no matter how hard she tried to supress it. It made herself feel small, helpless, stupid even.
Reena groaned and twisted around onto her back, violently realigning the shape of her eyebrows as she rubbed at her face in an attempt to keep the tears away.
She had been right all along. They had lost all three of their parents that day.
Last Edit: Feb 27, 2023 15:09:40 GMT 10 by Lena: Quoted dialogue is still bolded
Post by Jaxen Ashworth on Feb 27, 2023 10:18:25 GMT 10
After they left Madam Malkin's, Jax fidgeted awaiting instruction on where they were headed next. There was always so much to get before the start of each school year, and every year he held onto the concern that he might forget something. He hated to think of what might happen if he skipped over something on his list, the act of writing home to request it be sent to him didn't seem worth the hassle.
"Oh-!" he fumbled the galleons that his Grandpa handed to him, just managing to keep hold of them in his surprise. "Grandpa, you didn't have to. Thank you!" he had been dreading having to start such a difficult conversation with his mother. Especially that morning when Kody had suffered such a rebuttal.
The forms? Well, he would just have to wait to find out if his mother granted him permission for everything else. Though, he couldn't quite swallow the bitterness that arose at the thought of privileges he'd once been granted, being revoked.
Stopping by the Apothecary, Jax was thorough in his collection of various potions ingredients and vials which he was sure he'd make good use of in his new potions classes. He almost regretted signing up for such a challenging class, but knew that he had no future as an auror without it- if only he felt more confident in his abilities. Reena had always been better at potions than he.
After grabbing lunch, they headed for Flourish and Blotts. Jaxen's heart sinking when he realized how many books he would need and how his bags already seemed weighed down by the potions supplies he had already purchased. NEWT level really weren't anything to joke about.
Hanging onto his Grandpa's instruction, he wondered what errands he had to run but was comforted knowing that this was one adult they could rely upon. He would be back in good time. In the meanwhile, he had books to buy and he trusted his siblings to be too preoccupied with searching for their own supplies to get themselves into any trouble- what trouble could be found within a bookstore, anyway?
Jax explored the store, searching for the books on his list and gathering them each into his arms as he went as well as picking up enough parchment that he guessed would last him the entire and almost forgetting the ink to go along with it until he passed by it and almost tripped over his own feet in an effort to divert back to looking at it.
Looking at the various quills, he stroked the edge of a rather magnificent peacock feather quill. Shaking his head and deciding that it was much too flamboyant for use within a classroom and instead chose a few different, much plainer quills that would blend in better in a classroom setting.
Moving on, he then spent a rather prolonged period browsing the many sketchpads that the store had to offer. Small gasps and sounds of intrigue could be heard coming from that section of the store whenever he found one that apparently 'called to him'. In the end he picked up two rather colourful ones, hiding them at the bottom of his large pile of books and equipment as if afraid he would not be allowed both- or either.
--
It was a while before their Grandpa returned to the store, in which time Jax had tried his best to look busy. Checking in with his siblings and attempting not to drop any of his rather large stack of items. It was a relief when he paid for them and the store clerk piled the items into a couple of bags which were much easier to carry.
He gladly left Flourish and Blotts, pleased with his purchases and ignoring the fact that he had several unused sketchbooks at home lying at the bottom of his trunk- you could never have too many. Perhaps he would start a new project once back at Hogwarts, that would surely require a new sketchpad, he could not clutter up an old one with an entirely different subject matter.
Sitting outside Florean's with his mint chocolate chip ice cream, drizzled in sauce and adorned with copious amounts of nuts (of which he requested extra), Jax licked his lips and sat up a little straighter when their Grandpa revealed what he had gotten up to while he had left them to their book browsing.
The gifts were thoughtful and almost too much, and Jax wiped his sticky fingers on a napkin before reaching to examine the art kit. His face lit up at the thought of what he might use the new supplies for, the paints were crying out for him to use-- this was definitely an excuse to embark upon a new project. He had been meaning to find more time to paint and branch away from sketching, which was just easier during term time.
"Thank you, Grandpa!" he beamed at his Grandpa, peering at his siblings gifts with intrigue. The gifts all seemed to be rather expensive, and he wondered how so many extravagant gifts could be afforded- especially since so much money had just gone on their school supplies.
--
Returning to Puddles Way, despite being weighed down by the bags in his hands, Jax felt lighter than he had in weeks. Despite the rather sombre start to the day, he had enjoyed his time out of the house with his Grandpa, only wishing that Kody had felt up to joining them. He would've enjoyed himself.
He faltered in his stride as the sound of raised voices reached his ears and he exchanged an uneasy look with his siblings. Quickening his pace, he was surprised to find his mother and Grandma arguing just within the boundary of their home- bickering about someone visiting the house, was it one of mother's friends?
No. It did not seem as though it had been a social call.
The ministry had visited, about his father's will? Why would his mother not enact the will? What was the plan she spoke of, which apparently prohibited her from doing so?
Their grandpa's attempt at diffusing the situation by offering to see them indoors caused his heart to sink, because he knew that it was too late to salvage the day. It had already been spoiled by the arguing and now they were attempting to shoo them away from the conversation, as if they did not have a right to be a part of it.
He was sixteen, surely he was allowed an opinion now? He wouldn't hide away inside, even if the raised voices and intense stairs made him wish he was in his room.
"Mum-" his voice sounded strained as she spoke about how she had died alongside their father. Swallowing hard as tears pricked his eyes. He had always known it to be true, the mother that had once doted upon him when he was little hadn't existed in a very long time. Not since she'd lost their father. But to hear it said aloud, it felt as if someone had taken a blade to his heart.
He felt the bags slip from his hands as she fell, barely registering the sound of shattering glass as they hit the ground and he rushed to stop her from doing the same.
"Mama, are you okay?" his heart raced as she seemed to take a moment to regain composure, and he waited with baited breath for her to say something- but she didn't. The tightness in his chest returned with newfound vigour and he tried to calm himself and steady his breathing as she got to her feet.
She was okay. Everything was okay. Except... Everything did not feel okay.
Getting back to his feet, he clung to his grandparents a bit longer than necessary as they hugged them goodbye. Wishing that they could stay longer. He always wished that they would stay, but they never did. Jax watched them leave, staring after them a few moments longer, even after they'd disappeared over the hill.
Then it was time to return to reality.
As it began to rain, he picked up his discarded bags and winced at the tinkling sound of broken glass. He would need to check how many vials had broken and repair them later that night, when he got a few moments... He knew the mending charm well enough, hopefully it would not fail him.
Heading inside after their mother, he ruffled Kody's hair as he passed by "it was fun, we'll tell you all about it later" there was much to fill him in on. Hopefully he would not come to regret staying at home too much.
Setting his bags down in the hallway for the time being, he turned to look for Reena as she spoke. His shoulders slumping when she uttered an apology and fled to her room.
"Ree-!" he called after her, reaching out a hand but then letting it fall back to his side. If she needed space then he would give it to her. He was too tired to pursue her now anyway and there was much to do that evening- had anyone made a start on dinner? It was doubtful.
Post by Verity Ashworth on Feb 27, 2023 13:48:21 GMT 10
Verity huffed. She was almost annoyed enough to insist that she would not leave the store or choose her dress robes until someone told her what was going on. Almost. The idea of being able to finally express herself at school was too tempting to her, and eventually she was able to pick out her dress robes. They were much more eye-catching than Jaxen or Reena's, at least to Verity. They were multicoloured, for one thing, plus they had sparkles!
Whenever she wore these robes, she was going to be happy about it. In fact, she might just see if she could go around wearing them regularly, if no one would tell her what they were for.
She was happy enough to stop in at the Apothecary, even if Potions wasn't her favourite subject. She was known for talking a bit too much in that class, especially once the class was just making potions and not listening to Professor Snape lecture. It wasn't her fault if one of her friends had recently been up to something interesting that Verity just had to know about.
The bookstore was a bit of an adventure, especially after lunch. She was a bit surprised that Grandpa was leaving them alone, but then again, he left them alone with Aubrey for a lot of the time so Verity guessed that he had the practice. After carrying around doubles of things, she was beginning to feel a bit annoyed that Kody hadn't come alone with them.
It was worth it when she got to the sketchbooks. She spent a while standing in front of them, so her arms were tired when she finally picked one out and added it to her pile. She answered Reena's question, "The fluffy ones, of course."
They just made writing a bit more fun. Plus, Verity loved feeling a bit more accomplished while she scribbled out an essay. Sugar quills were also good, but they weren't really for writing, so she didn't mention them.
Verity eyed the packages that Grandpa had when he came back. She was mostly interested in knowing if they had anything to do with her father, but she didn't bother asking just now, since she had just asked for the sketchbook. It was nice, too, and would probably last her at least a few months, especially when schoolwork left her feeling creatively drained.
She enjoyed her ice cream. It felt like it had been forever since she'd really had any, so she was savouring the flavours while she watched Grandpa hand out the fruits of some of the errands he'd been running.
Verity nodded in approval when she saw Ezra's new telescope. She knew that he liked Astronomy, after all. She was more openly excited when she saw her new art supplies. This would be totally fantastic! Maybe her new sketchpad was going to last for less time than she thought it would. With all this cool stuff, she could even practice drawing her friends some more. Maybe her drawings of people would look more like people by the winter holiday.
She was stunned by Reena's gift and almost a little jealous, even though she had just been thinking about how much she disliked Potions as a class. Even though the idea of being prefect was boring with a capital B to Verity, she seriously considered asking how Reena got to do it, if only so she could have a cool present, too.
Verity stumbled and felt a little ill again once they apparated home, meaning she was a little slower to pick up on anything unusual than normally. She wished they could have picked another way to travel. Apparating always made her feel like she'd been spun around a few times too many.
Once she realized that there was an argument going on, she immediately tried to hear as much of it as possible. Whatever she could hear, she had to know. Especially if it was an argument between Grandma and Aubrey.
A visitor? From the Ministry? The wills? Verity had heard about them and she'd read her father's journal, but she hadn't considered that even now, nobody knew where Conrad's will was. Maybe that would be something she could investigate for herself. She and Ezra deserved to know what their father would've wanted for them after he died.
At even the suggestion of being taken inside and away from the discussion, away from the information, Verity's hands balled into fists. She was old enough to understand, she just knew it! Why couldn't any of the adults see that? She needed to know this, just needed to know and they couldn't get it.
She held her head up defiantly at Aubrey's words. If she was going to send them away, it would be one motherly act where there should've been dozens before. Where was this Aubrey when Verity was a scared little kid, uncertain of what was happening?
Verity turned away when Aubrey's gaze landed on her, feeling distinctly uncomfortable. There had been moments in her life, still were moments in her life when Verity wanted nothing more than to get a hug, some motherly comfort from Aubrey, and in those moments Aubrey had let her down. Still, she was almost ashamed to be angry at Aubrey now, when she could look into those eyes and see that she was there.
Verity was frozen to the spot when Aubrey collapsed, unable to move except for the smallest blink before she stared at Aubrey, Grandma and Grandpa. She was almost heartbroken when they left, and Aubrey seemed much the same as ever.
Verity went inside so her sketchbook and new art supplies wouldn't be ruined, and because she wasn't sure if there was anything to do outside.
"'s okay." Verity said to Kody, "I had to get your books. You gotta come next time, so my arms don't get tired."
She had tried to lighten the mood, but the rain wasn't helping, and so she ended up sounding rather angry. Verity stomped up the stairs. It just wasn't fair. Why was it that everyone tried to keep secrets from everyone? What was the point of it all? She tore open her new sketching inks and one of her fluffy quills and began a sketch of that moment she'd seen from Aubrey, trying to capture the way that she looked when she seemed to truly see Verity.
Last Edit: Feb 27, 2023 15:10:08 GMT 10 by Lena: Missed bolding some dialogue
Post by Reena Ashworth on Feb 27, 2023 15:38:16 GMT 10
A feeling of panic jolted her into a dark room. Reena realised that she must have passed out, lamenting her failed relationship with her mother instead of helping Jaxen to prepare a proper dinner.
Checking the time confirmed that it was way past dinner and she would be surprised if anyone was still up. Especially her mother.
Reena flung back the blanket, that someone must have put on her and sat at the edge of her bed. She looked towards Kody‘s bed, hoping she had not woken him.
She was considering simply brushing her teeth and changing into pjs, but there was an underlying sense of urgency, she simply knew would keep her awake.
A distinctive feeling of running out of time.
So instead of heading to the bathroom once she had snuck past her brother’s bed, she turned towards Verity‘s door.
She quietly slid inside her sister’s room and closed the door behind her again.
“Verity!“, she hissed as she approached the bed. “Wake up, Vee! I need your help.“
Out of all her siblings, Reena thought her sister most likely to sneak around their mother’s back after that outburst of her earlier today.
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