Mary Brooding
July 29, 2018 11:26 PM
Just a Flutter [Tag Tabitha] by Mary Brooding
The gardens had long since been a sanctuary for Mary Brooding. She'd always appreciated the fact that they were essentially one big lie; one big refusal to be what they were supposed to be. As a student, she'd often hidden amongst the bushes and fountains, avoiding the reaching hands of guys during tag. Later, she realized she avoided the reaching hands of guys at all. Sometimes, she felt like she had a lot in common with the gardens.Now, they offered only minimal respite, because they could do nothing to soothe her embarrassment. She wished she could clone herself and use one of herselves to slap some sense into the other of herselves, and then declone herself and walk away with some new insight into how exactly she could go about unbungling this bungled mess.
Mary huffed as she took a seat on a cold bench near a fountain. She almost laughed at the thought that here she was, her first day at Sonora, just like she'd been all those years ago. A lifetime ago.
Her thoughts turned around that idea, avoiding the one face who had entered her life the most recently. As usual, Parker's face came to mind first. He'd had curly hair, black as night and softer than anything else. She could picture the way he'd smiled at her the last time she saw him. Her parents were harder to remember, as she'd spent most of her late formative period at Sonora and had been busy adventuring with Parker on summers home. But she could remember their funeral.
Various other faces came to mind but none so vivid as Michelle. Ah, Michelle. The face of a woman she had loved. And, if she was honest, the only woman she had loved.
Mary sighed and wrung her hands before sinking her forehead into her palms and crying. There was no doubt that Tabitha was a lovely woman, smart, beautiful, and funny. But lots of things at Sonora were lovely, and she shouldn't have let loneliness cloud her feelings. Some part of her was aware that there might be much more between herself and Tabitha than just friends, but that time was yet to come. She knew there was no rush, whatever her lonely heart thought.
She'd been alone for so long that she'd almost forgot how crippling it was. The way two humans come together to share a moment of their lives is beautiful, and Mary knew she had missed that connection. It wasn't wrong to enjoy the touch or the kindness of someone she truly did admire-- there was no denying that if she was ready for a relationship, Tabitha would be the one she would pursue-- but there was something wrong with diving headfirst into a 'maybe' for fear of the 'what-ifs'.
Mary groaned, stood up, and screamed.
She was still crying, but it felt good to be angry instead of just sad for a moment. It felt even better than being lonely. But nothing could compare to being happy, and she slumped back onto the bench when she remembered what that was like. What it could be like.
The idea that happiness wasn't exclusive to her was a hard one for her to accept, but then she thought again of the friendly smile and greeting she'd received from a woman in the staff room, back before that woman was Tabitha, and before that friendly smile meant anything else.
Fear and sadness turned to embarrassment.
"Well," she grumbled aloud to herself. "This isn't bloody wonderful at all."
If she'd spoken any louder, she might've been heard. Perhaps she was at that. For footsteps approached and a familiar white robe billowed into view.
OOC: Tabitha's approach was approved by Tabitha's author.
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Mary Brooding
Just a Flutter [Tag Tabitha]
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Mary Brooding
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Tabitha Hawthorne
July 29, 2018 11:57 PM
Just a feeling... by Tabitha Hawthorne
Tabitha was absolutely convinced that she was insane. She had wondered such things before, given her recklessness and her tendency to run into dangerous situations. She'd even made a hobby of such things, travelling across continents in a bid to try and find the wizarding world's most dangerous creatures. However, this was different. She no longer had any doubts about her mental state. She was certain that she was completely, undeniably, one hundred percent insane.This thought stemmed from the fact that she'd just fled Cascade Hall, that was full for the Opening Feast, in order to chase after a woman who, it was quite possible, did not want to see Tabitha's face ever again. Not after the complete shambles that had been the ending of their dinner together, where Tabitha had been stupid and opened her mouth with no thought or care and just blurted out her feelings that she had had not intention of blurting in the first place and had no business being made known.
The truth was, Tabitha was lonely. She'd been lonely for months, ever since her ex had left. She felt rather pathetic for having taken a shine to the first person who'd shown her even a little bit of attention. Maybe this wouldn't have happened if her ex hadn't left or if she'd actually known somebody, anybody in America. If that had been the case, maybe she would have controlled herself better and been less emotional about the whole damn debacle.
Yet, here she was, chasing after a woman who Tabitha thought was lovely and beautiful and, quite frankly, just extraordinary. Tabitha couldn't deny it. The woman was and would be a wonderful friend and the Defence teacher had a crush on her. Great, just marvellous. As if life wasn't difficult enough, what with her being in a job that she didn't even really know how to do, the issues she was having about whether to send her parents a stupid letter and now, she found herself crushing on the first bloody person who even looked at her kindly. The whole situation was a complete joke.
Tabitha rounded a corner and found herself approaching the gardens. Actually, Tabitha was kind of pleased about that. She needed fresh air. She needed to breathe deep and try and collect her thoughts, make sense of the mess that both she and Mary were now in, all because of her. The cool night air was nice on her face and there was a slight breeze that ruffled her hair, the strands of which tickled her cheeks. For a brief moment, Tabitha felt peaceful. For just a moment, she could forget the mess and just let the outdoor air wash over her as she walked through the gardens.
Then, she heard a scream.
And it sounded like Mary.
She drew out her wand and ran in what she hoped was the right direction. She didn't know if anything dangerous could get into the Sonora grounds but she didn't want to take any risks by not being prepared. It didn't matter, suddenly, what had transpired between the two or who's fault it was or whether Tabitha did or did not have a crush on the Potions mistress. She just had to find her and make sure she was okay.
She turned a corner and stopped suddenly, almost tripping over her own feet. She panted heavily, her wand pointed defensively, ready to shoot a hex at any potential attacker. However, all she saw was Mary, slumped over on a bench, tear tracks on her face and looking absolutely miserable. With a crash, Tabitha was reminded that it was her who had caused Mary to look such a state and she lowered her wand, now embarrassed.
"I..." she took a deep breath, her throat constricting. Confronted with Mary, having found her, Tabitha felt rather ill. "I heard your scream... I was worried that you were in trouble."
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Tabitha Hawthorne
Just a feeling...
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Mary Brooding
July 30, 2018 3:14 AM
A wonderful feeling? by Mary Brooding
She came.Mary's chest lurched at the sight of Tabitha standing there, worried about her safety. A number of thoughts crossed her mind at once, including a few questions. Shimmering in the moonlight, her white robes rustling in the gentle breeze and her wand clutched firmly in her hand, Tabitha was a sigh to behold. The queen of night, come to rescue her fallen one.
This thought reminded Mary that she was being dramatic and that she was quite unstable. But she did enjoy the imagery.
"Thank you," Mary replied in a soft voice. The breeze that tousled Tabitha's robes also stung Mary's cheeks where tears had left damp tracks on her skin, and she wiped her face.
"Can I just... I'm sorry. Is that weird?" Mary huffed as she spoke and she thought how nice it would be to laugh. They'd been getting on so well and everything just got so tense and serious and she wanted to laugh again. That's what she liked. She suspected maybe that's what Tabitha liked, too.
Then, Mary did laugh. It was the dry, short chuckle that comes from the mouths of people who are too tired to really find anything funny anymore, but it was better than crying. Or screaming.
"This is so stupid," she said. "Not you. Me. Just. I am so bloody lonely!"
All the embarrassment of the past few minutes of semi-rational thought seemed to land on Mary's shoulders at once and she covered her face with her hands. "It's so stupid!"
She let out a gust of air and smiled sadly at the witch she hoped would still be her friend. If Tabitha was the woman Mary had come to know, she thought she probably would be.
"I think you're fantastic, but I shouldn't have let everything else make this so difficult for us. Especially our first night! I hope you don't mind me saying how silly this is. It's been so wonderful to meet you, and this whole night was lovely, and our food was scrumptious and it's all just been so... so wonderful!"
Mary was loser to her usual self again, although she could only be so cheery when a possibly angry woman with a wand was in front of her. Instead of trying to say anything else and risking sounding like a total nincompoop, Mary eyed the woman for a moment.
"Do you mind if I just... I'm just going to...."
Pushing herself to her feet, Mary stretched her arms by her sides and rocked up on her toes, weighing her decision one last time before acting on it. Deciding it couldn't be weirder, and betting that she had read this woman correctly (hopefully), Mary took long strides to close the distance between them and wrapped Tabitha in a gentle hug.
She desperately hoped Tabitha would return the gesture, or at least not mind. In most situations, Mary wouldn't hug people without their express consent first. However, it was a night of doing and saying without thinking, so she might as well keep up the trend. It wasn't as if she hadn't already botched her interactions with Tabitha.
"It's been such a pleasure, and I'd really like to be friends, if you still want to," Mary said, and her eyes were sincere as she pulled back, leaving her hands on Tabitha's shoulders and looking at her closely to see what sort of response she would get.
OOC: I tried not to God-mod Tabitha's response to the hug? I wrote it as openly as possible, I think the only thing that I restricted was that she didn't like...punch Mary, or throw her hands up and reject the hug or something. I'd love feedback if that's too God-mod-ish!!
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Mary Brooding
A wonderful feeling?
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Mary Brooding
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Tabitha Hawthorne
July 30, 2018 10:42 AM
I'm not sure yet. by Tabitha Hawthorne
Tabitha put her wand away, having come to the conclusion that since Mary wasn't in any kind of danger, nor was she going to hex her for disturbing her while she was upset. Tabitha was feeling rather conflicted inside. In one way, she wanted to reach out to the woman, to hold her hands again, retrieve the warm feelings she'd been experiencing within the hall at the feast. On the other hand, she thought that it might be better if she didn't move at all, for fear of upsetting Mary further. She felt like she'd done enough damage as it was. She didn't want to risk upsetting Mary further by being somewhat affectionate.Tabitha said nothing as Mary laughed. This laugh cut her to pieces as it wasn't the warm, kind laugh that the Defence teacher had become accustomed to hearing over the day. It was brief and sounded derisive and harsh. All words that Tabitha wouldn't associate with the Mary that she knew, all words that were being used because Tabitha had gotten carried away.
Then, Mary said she was lonely.
The statement resonated deep within Tabitha. It was a feeling that she had become very familiar over the recent months, one that she hadn't been able to shake and she rather suspected had everything to do with being the cause of their current predicament. Tabitha wasn't sure as to when she had become so weak, so bothered by being alone. She had faced Runespoors in India, Demiguises in the Far East and Erumpents in Africa and yet, none of those had resulted her in being such a mess. Her kryptonite, her weakness was the fact that she was bloody lonely? It was pathetic and it angered her. It angered her to the point where she had to draw in a sharp breath and ball her hands into fists before she hit something.
Then, as quickly as the anger has descended, it had disappeared and was replaced by surprise as she felt arms wrap around her, pulling her close. For a moment, she didn't move and stood rigidly, as stiff as board while she processed what was happening. Mary was hugging her. Instead of taking away any confusuon that Tabitha felt, it only served to make it greater. For once in her life, Tabitha had absolutely no idea what on earth to do.
Her brain finally came to the conclusion that she should probably hug the woman back, given that that was what people normally did when on the receiving end of a hug but, just as Tabitha started to lift her arms to return the gesture, Mary broke it and stepped away slightly, putting space between them. She still felt her hands though, resting delicately on her shoulders and they were still warm, she could feel their heat through the thin fabric of her blouse.
If the situation hadn't been so serious, Tabitha's face might have ellicited laughter. Her eyes were wide and staring into Mary's face and her mouth was slightly agape, as if she was about to speak. She seemed to frozen in place and in a way, she was, trying to process the new developments in the situation. It was fair to say that Tabitha was utterly and completely lost.
"I..." Great. On top of everything else, her ability to speak seemed to have now failed her. Her surprised expression faded as looked down at the ground and frowned, now annoyed that she was no screwing up basic social interactions. This was a complete nightmare. She cleared her throat and tried again. Her eyes flickered up to meet those of Mary's. They searched her face, trying to determine if she was being sincere. "I don't understand... I thought..."
Well, that was just it? What did she think? Tabitha wasn't entirely sure anymore. She let out a deep sigh, deciding to just speak and see what happened. After all, she couldn't possibly make the situation any worse than it already was.
"I thought that I'd scared you, Mary," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper, almost getting lost in the wind. "I'm a reckless, dangerous, stupid individual and I said a stupid thing and ruined a wonderful day and an even lovelier evening. How could you possibly want to still be friends with someone as screwed up as I am?"
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Tabitha Hawthorne
I'm not sure yet.
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Mary Brooding
July 30, 2018 4:28 PM
Me neither. by Mary Brooding
Certainly Tabitha had looked confused while Mary spoke, but now it was Mary's turn to wonder at her friend. She couldn't remember when Tabitha had said anything to ruin anything, although she suspected she could figure out what Tabitha thought she'd said. Mary's eyes softened."You haven't ruined anything, sweet one," Mary murmured, lowering her voice to Tabitha's volume. "And if you're screwed up, then I am too. If you don't mind me saying so, we're too much alike to talk like that."
Mary took a deep breath and resigned herself to the fact she was going to have to get used to reaching out if she wanted any help getting better. She'd been thinking of Michelle so recently that it wasn't hard to pull up the memories she needed now, although she hated to bring them up anyway.
"The woman I told you about before, the veela? Her name was Michelle," Mary started, looking down at the floor between herself and Tabitha as she pulled her hands away and let them hang loosely at her sides. "She was lonely, too. We were only together for a little while, but she didn't love me the same way. She couldn't love a woman the same way."
Another breath and a small smile.
"I understand that. I couldn't love a man that way, I don't expect anyone else to change either. But she tried for me, and we were happy for a time. She wanted a baby the traditional way, and a marriage that she could show off to her family."
Now, Mary's eyes closed altogether. She didn't need to cry anymore; she'd long since accepted the situation. But it still stung. There was no bitterness, but the pain was still tangible.
"I wasn't lying when I said she and I are still friends, but I don't know what that will mean anymore. I applied to Sonora the day she sent me a letter telling me she was going to have a baby. And I'm really glad I'll be too busy to write as often, so I guess that makes me not a very good friend."
She felt like she was talking a lot and saying too much, but she couldn't just stop now. Opening her eyes and looking openly at Tabitha, Mary pulled her brows together, focused.
"You and me? We're lonely. And that pain is all so recent. Is it really a surprise that we'd care too much too fast? Let's be friends, let's fight that loneliness. And, if you'll have me, I'd still love to travel for Christmas." Mary smiled, watching Tabitha's face. "But let's just... see what happens?"
It was a proposition and Mary's shoulders rose hopefully as she waited for a response. She would accept anything, but she knew what she wanted to hear, and anticipation bubbled in her stomach. Or indigestion. Or both. One should never run so soon after eating jello pudding and smores, but needs must.
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Mary Brooding
Me neither.
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Mary Brooding
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Tabitha Hawthorne
July 30, 2018 5:43 PM
I want to find out though. by Tabitha Hawthorne
Tabitha breathed shallowly. There was a tightness in her chest that she didn't feel often. It made it hard to breathe, hard to think, hard to do anything at all. There was a stinging in her eyes and she felt them, for the first time in a long time, well up with tears. Her throat constricted and her lips parted, trying to breathe. Tabitha wasn't a loud, vocal crier. She was a private person, favouring to hide away in the privacy of her rooms and yet, here she was, revealing her vulnerability to Mary.For some reason, the words 'sweet one' whispered in such a low tone, so quietly, so intimately, shook her to her core. If she was honest, the time that she and Mary had shared felt intimate and private and the reason Tabitha was now on the edge of blubbering like a small child was because she was both overwhelmed and extraordinarily relieved that Mary had deigned Tabitha worthy of her friendship and companionship.
Tabitha found that her lips were trembling as she fought to hold back her tears. She could understand where Mary was coming from, it was all so perfectly logical and made complete sense. They were both lonely people that had been hurt and had sought comfort in the first person who listened to their pain which, as it turned out, was each other.
"You..." her voice cracked, threatening to break completely. The wind picked up a little, blowing through the gardens and snatched a long lock of hair from Mary's mess of braid, making it fall in front of her face. Without really thinking, Tabitha lifted a hand and tentatively, gently, brushed the stray lock behind her here, accidentally brushing her fingers against Mary's cheek.
For a moment, Tabitha didn't entirely process what she'd just done. When she did, her eyes widened and she bit her lip, taking a step back away from Mary.
"I'm sorry, I shouldn't have done that," she sniffed, pressing her face into her hands. If there was a trophy for how badly somebody could screw up, Tabitha felt convinced that she would have won it. "You... are an amazing person, Mary. You truly are."
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Tabitha Hawthorne
I want to find out though.
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Tabitha Hawthorne
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Mary Brooding
July 30, 2018 6:16 PM
Let's find out together. by Mary Brooding
Mary smiled, her nose wrinkling."Don't you worry a bit, that hair is always falling and I don't mind you pushing it back. I...I like it."
Sensing that Tabitha needed something-- anything-- to lighten the modd, Mary smirked at her. Stooping her head and leaning towards her, Mary changed her tone into one of conspiracy and jest.
"Tabitha, I think it's possible you haven't heard this enough, but I think you're amazing."
Mary's chest swelled as she realized how much more comfortable she was. She was with a lovely woman, in a lovely gardens, at a lovely school, and she was not going to let a not-so-lovely time in her life ruin it for her. She hoped desperately that Tabitha could be encouraged to do the same.
"Fancy a seat with me? The gardens are a beautiful place at night." Standing to the side, she waved an arm, elegantly gesturing at the bench she'd been found on. "Tell me what you see in the stars," she coaxed. "I've thought rather often that the stars must have a sense of humor. Think of all the starry nights they watch over, and all the silly things they see."
Mary had experienced her fair share of terrible starry nights, but she hadn't lied when she said her happiest moment was under the stars either.
"Shall we?"
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Mary Brooding
Let's find out together.
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Mary Brooding
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Tabitha Hawthorne
July 30, 2018 6:55 PM
I'd like that. by Tabitha Hawthorne
Tabitha wiped at her eyes, brushing away any remaining tears and managed a weak smile at the Potions mistress who seemed to have an uncanny talent for finding something positive in everything. Tabitha wondered what she had done to have the opportunity to be friends with such a lovely, gorgeous person. She managed a weak chuckle as Mary complimented her and with that smirk on her face, the woman looked positively mischievous and devilish. Tabitha idly wondered if there was a cheeky streak hidden underneath all of Mary's loveliness.Then, she was invited to stargaze.
Tabitha blinked, surprised, and for a moment just stared between Mary, her arm and the bench she was gesturing to. It assured her that Mary was being sincere - not that she thought the woman could lie or manipulate somebody - and she smiled, taking steps towards her.
"If you want to look at the stars, I have a better idea," she told her before taking her by the hand and pulling her further in the labyrinth of the gardens. After a short walk that involved a number of turns and a walk past a lovely fountain, Tabitha came across a clearing that was perfect. She removed her white robe and laid it down on the grass, the blue silk lining facing upwards.
"You should always look at stars, lying on your back," she told the woman, by way of explanation. Stargazing was something Tabitha had done countless times on her travels and she found it to be rather relaxing. So much so that she had fallen asleep under the stars. She laid down on her coat, leaving enough space for Mary to lie beside her. She patted the empty space next to her.
"Come on, join me."
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Tabitha Hawthorne
I'd like that.
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Tabitha Hawthorne
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Mary Brooding
July 30, 2018 8:30 PM
As would I, sweet one. by Mary Brooding
Mary busied herself with a gentle smile, and the nervous smoothing of her robes. She hoped it didn't look nervous, but she wouldn't deny it if she was caught out. Memories of a certain quiet starry night, laying in the grass with a certain veela woman, the last night she'd get to be so close to someone who'd meant so much.She supposed it was a normal thing to do, though, and couldn't hold it against Tabitha that her last experience had gone so awry. After a quick mental note to 'get it together,' she cast her friend a smile and followed her to the grass.
The fact that there was precisely enough space for them both on Tabitha's lovely outercoat made Mary smile a bit.
"I haven't done this for a long time," Mary murmured, preferring not to launch into a more detailed story. "Months."
Mary carefully folded her hands together over her bodice, preferring not to cause any more trouble than necessary. "Tell me what you see," she murmured, loathe to break the silence that had drifted over them.
She turned her head to look Tabitha in the face. "Tell me everything," she said, and waited to see what she would say.
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Mary Brooding
As would I, sweet one.
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Mary Brooding
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Tabitha Hawthorne
July 30, 2018 9:59 PM
Let me show you the stars by Tabitha Hawthorne
Tabitha wondered if she'd done the right thing as she lay on her coat, next to Mary. This was the closest the been the entire night, their shoulders touching and Tabitha could smell the subtle fragrance of wild jasmine and and pine that reminded the Defence teacher strongly of a forest on a hot summer's day. It was wonderfully comforting and if Tabitha closed her eyes, she could picture that she was back travelling, treading slowly and carefully through a forest while she tried to catch sight of a creature she'd been tracking.When Mary asked Tabitha to tell her everything, she wasn't quite sure what she meant. She wasn't sure if she was referring to what Tabitha could see in the stars or whether she wanted to know everything about Tabitha. While the Defence mistress could tell Mary many things about constellations and the stories that were paired with them, she wasn't sure if she was quite prepared to reveal absolutely everything about herself. However, they had time. Lots of time. Revealing herself to Mary would come with time.
So, Tabitha stuck to what she knew and was comfortable with. Slowly, she raised her arm to trace the constellations.
"Well, my favourite story is the tale of Perseus and Andromeda," she began, her voice low and steady as she began the retelling. "You see, Perseus, was the child of the Lightning God, Zeus and a mortal woman called Danaë. He was a hero, most famous for killing Medusa, whose gaze could turn anybody to stone. He met Andromeda when she had been trained to a rock, to be devoured by a sea-monster called Cetus. It was a punishment, you see, because Andromeda's mother was Queen Cassiopeia who was a boastful and vain woman who claimed that she was so beautiful, that she was better-looking than the daughters of Poseidon, the God of the Seas."
As Tabitha mentioned each person involved, she traced their constellation in the sky, hoping that she wasn't boring Mary. It had been Mary's suggestion that they stargaze but she had asked Tabitha to tell her what she saw in the stars. Tabitha, truthfully, saw nothing other than the constellations. She hoped that she wasn't being disappointing. She took a deep breath and continued.
"Our hero God, Perseus, was returning home on Pegasus, his winged horse, found Andromeda before she was supposed to be killed and devoured by Cetus. He struck a deal with Andromeda's parents where if he saved her from her gruesome end, in return, he would win her hand in marriage. However, after saving Andromeda, he learned that her hand was promised to another man. So, Perseus killed him in battle and won Andromeda's hand and they lived happily ever after. When they all died, their stars were placed in the sky as a lesson forever."
She finished, letting her arm fall down, resting it across her stomach. She finally took her eyes off the skies and turned her head to the side to look at Mary, interested in her reaction.
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Tabitha Hawthorne
Let me show you the stars
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Tabitha Hawthorne
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Mary Brooding
July 31, 2018 3:19 AM
Let me travel them with you by Mary Brooding
Mary stifled a giggle as Tabitha spoke, not because the witch's words were silly but because they were utterly un-silly. The story was new to Mary and fascinated her, but when Tabitha was finished, Mary could hardly stop from commenting on it."That's what you see?" she asked, smiling. "I love that. You see knowledge in the world around you, and you see opportunities in the stars. You know so many things."
Silence drew between them again as Mary wondered at the galactic beauty above them. She considered what she saw and decided it was much less impressive.
"Do you think that Perseus won? Because he got his love? Or lost because he had to kill for her?"
She let the question hang in the air for a moment, the taste of curiosity warming her mind as she considered it. Finally, she decided it was worth sharing her own thoughts on the stars.
"I want to know more," she began. "I love that story and if you know any more, I'd love to hear them."
She turned and smile at Tabitha before looking back at the stars and continuing.
"I don't see the same thing. That bright star right in the middle of Perseus over there? My brother used to call it the birthday star. My birthday's in August and that's about when it comes out. He said it came out to wish me a happy birthday," Mary explained carefully, hoping not to sound too emotional.
She felt...happy. Nostalgic. But she knew that such memories stirred up a variety of feelings and she didn't want to put Tabitha off. She'd always been a reminiscent person but knew not everyone was.
"We always had the most lovely birthdays. His was in September. He would be twenty-one this year. He was real young, but I like to think he's up there with that star now, wishing me a happy birthday every year."
Mary smiled again, and paused for a moment before continuing. She could remember her brother's soft hair and soft smile and the memory was so comforting.
"That one?" she said, pointing to a constellation the shape of a W. It was clear, brighter than other constellations and easily distinguishable. "It's there all year, although obviously it's easier to see sometimes more than others. My dad's name was William and we always told him it was his constellation." She laughed at the thought. "He told us he'd magicked it up there to keep an eye on us, and we believed it for a long time."
Satisfied, she turned her head completely to look at Tabitha, and then rolled onto her side instead, one arm curled under her head like a pillow.
"Where did you learn about that story? It's Greek right? I recognize some of the names but never learned more. What do you think wizards were like back then?" She kept her eyes soft and her voice low, and watched the way the stars sparkled in Tabitha's grey eyes, a play of light in two endless pools.
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Mary Brooding
Let me travel them with you
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Mary Brooding
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Tabitha Hawthorne
July 31, 2018 2:35 PM
When I'm with you, I already feel like I'm among them. by Tabitha Hawthorne
Tabitha eyes were focused on Mary's face, a warm smile playing on her lips as the woman considered the telling of Perseus and Andromeda and then questioned whether Perseus had truly won at all, considering he'd had to kill another man to win the hand of his love. Mary was a fascinating creature, her mind incredible, the way she questioned everything, perceived things from angles that Tabitha had never considered. It was interesting to see how Mary looked and considered the world, making old things appear entirely new again.Tabitha turned her eyes back to the dark sky and let out an easy sigh as she considered her answer, her eyes searching the stars, almost as if it would be written there. "It depends on how you look at it, as it does with everything. Some might consider him to be within his rights to kill the other man, as he was promised Andromeda's hand. On the other hand, it could be said that he sold his soul because he killed another man so, in that respect, he did lose."
She listened quietly as she told her about her brother and father and her own, personal connection to the stars. She didn't mock her, make fun of her, or embarrass her. In fact, Tabitha felt kind of honoured that Mary felt that she could share something so personal and close to her heart. She smiled softly, turning her head to look back at Mary.
"I think..." she began, slowly. She was unsure if she should say this as she didn't want to undermine the memory of her brother and father but, at the same time, she wanted to say it. "I think that both your brother and father are looking down on you, as they promised."
Then, Mary asked her about where she learned her stories and about Greek wizards and Tabitha smiled. She loved to share the stories of her travels and she liked that Mary wanted to know where Tabitha had gathered her knowledge and the Defence mistress was more than happy to share.
"Well, I spent a few months in Greece. They have a nice range of beasts there that I was fascinated to study. I got to know some of the natives there and in exchange for me giving them all the information I had gathered - and believe me, that was weeks and weeks of study - they taught me about the stars. They are incredibly intelligent people, massive contributors to all kinds of fields of study like maths and science, not to mention all the creative subjects like culture and art and I think they always have been that way, or we wouldn't have the stories that we do today. I have a great deal of respect for them and I'd like to go back someday," she said, lost in thoughts of nostalgia and her memories. Her eyes searched Mary's face as she said, "And I'd like to take you with me."
She turned her eyes back to the stars, searching out other constellations, picking the ones that she felt were the most interesting to share. "You wanted to know another story? Well, there's the story of the Lyra. Now, the Lyra was a celestial harp that was given by Apollo, the God of music, to his son, Orpheus. It is said that Orpheus played the harp, everything stopped to listen."
Tabitha paused and tore her eyes away from the sky and turned onto her side, to look at Mary. They two witches were so close to each other that their noses were almost touching. The Defence mistress locked eyes with Mary and, in a quieter voice, continued her tale.
"Now, Orpheus had a wife called Eurydice who, sadly, passed away suddenly, which broke his heart. In order to bring her back to the land of the living, Orpheus travelled to the Underworld, to take back Eurydice from the ruler, Hades. Lucky for him, Hades greatly enjoyed his music and wanted him to play for him. Orpheus agreed on the condition that once he finished playing, Eurydice would be free to leave. Hades agreed. When Orpheus finished playing, he asked for Eurydice. Hades agreed, on the condition that Orpheus was to continue playing on his way out, walking in front of Eurydice and not look behind him to check that she was still following him. If Orpheus looked back, Eurydice would be taken back and stuck in the Underworld forever."
Tabitha stopped and sighed deeply. While she liked the tale, she knew that the ending was a sad one and she was starting to doubt if she wanted to tell it. Well, she supposed it was too late and she wasn't one to leave a story half told, nor would she change the ending to a happier one.
"Orpheus, as he played while walking through the Underworld, could not hear the footsteps of Eurydice behind him. When he saw the daylight from the Overworld, he turned around to see if Eurydice was with him and saw her fading away from sight. He had broken his end of the bargain. The constellation Lyra was placed in the sky by Zeus on the occasion of his death as an honour to the beautiful music he played and the great love he had for Eurydice..."
She trailed off, her retelling finished and gave Mary a weak smile. Then, as if imparting a lesson, she tapped Mary lightly on the nose and said, "Always trust the people you love to follow you."
20
Tabitha Hawthorne
When I'm with you, I already feel like I'm among them.
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Tabitha Hawthorne
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Mary Brooding
July 31, 2018 4:20 PM
I feel...something. by Mary Brooding
Tabitha's story was sad, but completely beautiful. It was a heartbreaking reminder that life and love happen no matter what, so all anyone can do is live, and love back. Mary did her best to live that way, but it wasn't always easy, and she knew she failed as often as she succeeded. Trust was a hard thing to work with."I'd like to go to Greece with you," Mary said in a whisper, smiling.
Being so close made Mary nervous but more because she was with a new friend than anything else. She realized, laying in the grass with this person, that she didn't know what she felt. There was no question that she felt something, but whether it was the pangs of friendship after such a bitter loneliness, or the pangs of a crush on someone who seemed so wonderful, or something else much deeper, she had no idea. She doubted it was just friendship, but wasn't willing to risk losing that to find out if it was anything else.
And then she thought of trust again. She wasn't sure she really knew how to trust people, although she didn't blame them for being untrustworthy. It seemed to her that the nature of human beings-- or humanoid beings-- was untrustworthy. The frailty of life and love made it impossible to trust anything more than the moment at hand, and even that wasn't a sure thing.
"I'm so excited to get to know you more," Mary murmured. "You really are quite a lovely person."
She considered her next words carefully, wanting to make it clear that she was open to something (what?) happening between them later (when?) but that she would need time (how much?). A frustrated sigh built in her chest and divoted her brow, but she blinked once and cleared the tension.
"We have a lot of time, and I don't think either of us is ready for another heartbreak," she chuckled, hoping to ease the mention of such pain. "But I just want to be on the same page. Can we go slow? We both have so much to work through before anything could happen. Let's go slow, okay?"
It hurt Mary to make this request, and her heart seemed to open up, ready to swallow the light of the world and plunge back into darkness, but she knew it was important. Whatever their future held, she wanted it to be healthy for them both. She also knew that loneliness had deprived her not only of a romantic partner, but of a friend, and she needed both. Whether both were the same person or not was yet to be seen.
"Please? Is that okay?"
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Mary Brooding
I feel...something.
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Mary Brooding
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Tabitha Hawthorne
July 31, 2018 7:14 PM
So do I... I don't know what though. by Tabitha Hawthorne
Tabitha let out a sigh and rolled onto her back before answering Mary. It wasn't that she had a problem with Mary's request as it was a perfectly reasonably and logical one and ordinary. However, Tabitha couldn't help but behave like she was stalking an elusive creature on one of her many travels - she was eager to explore, be adventurous, consequences be damned. She lived every moment like she was running out of time and now, here was a woman who was asking Tabitha for the very thing that she wasn't used to giving - time itself.She was inclined to give it though.
Perhaps because, in this instance, she needed it herself.
If Tabitha was being honest, she had never had a proper relationship with another woman. It wasn't that she'd never been interested or curious, she'd checked out her fair share of other witches through her travels but, having been in a committed and steady relationship, she'd never pursued anybody. Now, here was Mary, causing her to feel... well, strange.
Mary made her feel warm and pushed away the feelings of loneliness that had filled Tabitha up for such a long time. She felt that she could lower her guard around the woman, share things with her that were personal and intimate. Mary made her feel like she could relax and breathe easy and yet, at the same time, made her feel self-conscious, flushed and hot. It was a very confusing internal mix-up. It was also very curious and there was nothing Tabitha liked than exploring the curious, unexplained and the so very interesting.
After considering all of that, Tabitha realised that she been silent for some time and, alarmed at the time that had passed, she rolled back on to her side. Her grey eyes searched Mary's face, the face that was asking her for the time to explore... well, whatever it was that they had.
"I... am not one to sit around and wait," she admitted to the woman, wanting to be open and honest with the woman. If they were to build something solid between each other, whatever that something would be, honesty had to be at the base. "I am a traveller, as soon as I have done what I have needed to do, I move on. However, I am interested in you so, just this once and only for you, I will make an exception. You can have all the time you need."
She finished with a slow sigh and rolled on to her back, fixing her eyes back on the sky. Then, a smirk started to dance around her lips. "Would you promise me something though? Just promise that we shall have regular nightly chit chats with a bottle of wine?"
20
Tabitha Hawthorne
So do I... I don't know what though.
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Tabitha Hawthorne
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Mary Brooding
August 01, 2018 6:23 PM
Then you aren't alone. by Mary Brooding
Mary was worried. Although she was glad that Tabitha agreed to take thigns slowly, she seemed...resigned? Mary wasn't sure what the right word was, but she worried that it wasn't something the other witch wanted for herself. She supposed that there was nothing that could be done about that, though, and that if Tabitha did lose patience with waiting, then she would deal with that then.Always one to consider the best and the worst, Mary had a habit of asking 'What's the worst that can happen'? In most cases, the worst wasn't that bad. The worst that happened if she forgot about a class, for example, was that she would apologize, possibly in a disciplinary meeting, and try again next time.
In this case, the worst that could happen felt much worse. The worst that could happen was Tabitha deciding Mary wasn't worth the wait, and their potential...well, just potential....their potential fizzling out into nothingness. However, the rational part of Mary's brain reminded her that she wouldn't want to be in a relationship with someone who wasn't willing to wait, either. There had to be some give and take, and this would be a great chance to develop that.
Mary laughed when Tabitha asked about late night chats and wine, enjoying the image tremendously. She rolled onto her back as well, careful not to brush against the other woman, and examined the stars, searching for what her brother or father might think. Instead, she thought of her mother's wisdom, quoted from one of the United States' presidents: Nothing in the world is worth having or worth doing unless it means effort, pain, difficulty.
Mary wasn't sure this applied in all situations, but it certainly seemed to apply here. With a steadying breath, she allowed a smile to soften her face, relaxing into the idea that she had a friend. She wasn't alone. And that friend was Tabitha Hawthorne.
"I think that sounds divine," Mary giggled. "Although if classes are as hard as I'm worried they might be, we may need something stronger than wine."
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Mary Brooding
Then you aren't alone.
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Mary Brooding
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Tabitha Hawthorne
August 01, 2018 6:45 PM
For the first time in a while, I'm not. by Tabitha Hawthorne
Tabitha laughed at Mary's suggestion that they could need something stronger and she found it hard to argue against that point. They were both new teachers which meant that it would take time getting used to teaching and finding which teaching method worked best in which situation. They would have to deal with the new first years which was bound to cause some instances of accidental magic which Tabitha pictured, for some reason, somebody's eyebrows being singed off. There was the not so teeny-tiny issue of the half-veela who was now a fourth-year, which meant that she would be in Tabitha's Intermediate classes which involved Veelas on the curriculum. That was on top of all the other normal teaching issues that would no doubt arise such as getting the students to pay attention, quiet them when necessary, not mess around, not pass notes across the classroom and make sure they had in their homework.Tabitha was still not convinced that it was too late to run for the hills.
"I may have a bottle of firewhiskey stashed in my office," she admitted to Mary. "Will that do?"
She was quiet for a moment and then, catching her unawares, she felt self-consciousness crawling into her soul and seeing her heart. The Deputy Headmistress Selina had taken what Tabitha thought, a big chance on hiring her as a teacher, given that she'd had no prior experience in any kind of educational setting or even with children. All of her experience and knowledge came from what she'd learned on her travels and while Selina clearly thought she was cut out for the job (she doubted, what with her being the Deputy Head, that the woman was so negligent and desperate that she'd employ any so-and-so), Tabitha wasn't so sure.
"Do you think I'll be any good at it?" she asked Mary, suddenly. "At teaching, I mean?"
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Tabitha Hawthorne
For the first time in a while, I'm not.
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Tabitha Hawthorne
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Mary Brooding
August 01, 2018 7:00 PM
And won't be again. by Mary Brooding
"If we need anything stronger than firewhiskey, I think it is time to resign!" Mary laughed, imagining what sort of days would push them to drink anything harder than that. She hated to think of what that might be, though, and dropped the thought just as fast as it came to her.The air grew quiet again and Mary let her mind wander, looking at the stars and the tops of nearby trees, black against the barely lit sky. The wind was cool and refreshing on Mary's skin and the grass was soft enough that she didn't even need to use her braid as a pillow, her customary way to lay down. In this case, it was strewn out beside her on the opposite side as Tabitha. She wondered what sorts of bugs might crawl through it from the grass and made a mental note to do a quick scourging charm when they stood up. This wasn't the first time she'd needed to do that.
After a moment, Tabitha spoke suddenly, interrupting Mary's train of thought and sending her on quite another one. It was obvious that Tabitha needed to be reassured, so some amount of flattery was key, but the truth was that Mary had no idea how well Tabitha taught. Well, at least not how well she taught children.
She considered this, weighing her words and contemplating what exactly was the true answer. She suspected that that would be the most helpful one.
"You talk about your travels and come alive with knowledge and experience. You talk about the stars and give them stories." Mary's voice was strong and unwavering, but her thoughts were miles ahead as she pondered these things. "You're more than a bit of a badass and I suspect more than a few students will want to follow in your footsteps."
These things were all true, and Mary was confident that her next words would be as well. After all, if everything else was a fact, then Tabitha's suitability for her position was evident.
"You care about youth and you care about their independence. You'll be a great teacher, because you want to give them the tools to succeed on their own. What more could someone ask for?"
Her mind turned towards the veela student Deputy Headmistress Skies had warned her about, and she felt the familiar pang of nerves. "I'm worried about teaching with Miss James," she admitted. "The veela girl? But I'm not so worried about you teaching her. You're so sensitive and objective, and I know that you'll teach students what they need to know to remember that veelas are people, too. You'll help Miss James remember that she's a person, too. That's what you're good at, Tabitha. I've only known you for a short while and you've already instilled such a positive sense of self in me. I don't doubt you'll do the same for our students."
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Mary Brooding
And won't be again.
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Mary Brooding
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Malikhi Hill, Pecari
August 01, 2018 7:28 PM
You're a good friend. by Malikhi Hill, Pecari
As quickly as the self-doubt had come, it also departed quickly after Mary's words. It was nice to hear that someone else appeared to have faith in Tabitha's abilities to teach and she had nailed exactly how Tabitha wanted to teach. She did want to give the students the tools they needed to survive and let them find their own paths through life. Maybe that would be what would set her apart from a lot of teachers - that she actually had the practical experience, the real world experience to back up what she was teaching. She'd also be able to teach a few tricks of her own."You're a wonderful person, Mary," Tabitha told her in a quiet voice, raising her arms and linking her hands underneath her head as a support and crossing her legs at her ankles, the absolute picture of relaxation. "I think you just need someone to remind you of that sometimes. I'll be more than happy to do so."
They lapsed back into a much more comfortable silence as Tabitha closed her eyes, letting the wind wash over her face and pulling at the ruffles of her clothes. She felt so at ease that she could have easily fallen asleep then and there. However, it would've been rude to do so when with company so she re-opened her eyes and decided that she wanted to know more about Mary.
"So, come on. I've told you about being in Greece and in Fiji... Fair's only fair that you tell me about some of the places you've been."
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Malikhi Hill, Pecari
You're a good friend.
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Malikhi Hill, Pecari
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Mary Brooding
August 01, 2018 7:57 PM
It's a pleasure! by Mary Brooding
The silence that grew seemed beautifully deep. Mary smiled at Tabitha's kind words, but didn't respond, knowing their closeness was answer enough. The night sky was truly beautiful and, as it turned out, not ruined by any sour memories that took place underneath it.Mary was glad Tabitha felt so clearly at ease. It helped her to see that she wasn't the only one growing comfortable in their newfound friendship, and Mary wanted to make sure that continued. The space between them seemed vast, but in the jump-with-both-arms-out sort of way, nothing oppressive. There was a world of things to learn about this woman, and Mary was excited to do just that.
As it turned out, Tabitha wanted to do the same. Mary smiled at the question, and considered her various travels before choosing one to talk about.
"My trips weren't as exciting as yours," she laughed. "Harvesting flobberworm mucus and examining Muggle forests for burdock root just isn't as thrilling as chasing various magical creatures."
She pondered this for a moment. "It's interesting that Defense Against the Dark Arts has so much to do with magical creatures, when we tend to think of Dark Arts as dark magic performed by other magic people. Perhaps we should petition for a course rename: Defensive Magic. I'm not sure that's as catchy, and certainly not all you do...." Her voice trailed off and she pulled herself back to the question at hand.
"One of the ingredients for the Draught of Living Death is African sea salt. As you can imagine, the price of such an import can be rather exorbitant, which I really don't understand when most of us have licenses to Apparate. Why not just go get it ourselves? So that's what I did."
She smiled at the memory of the bright blue African coastlines. "I went to Madagascar, because islands like that fascinate me. I'm not sure why. Everywhere is an island of some varying degree, but no matter. I arrived directly in the sand and the warmth was so invigorating. I was drawn immediately to a few small huts I saw nearby and soon discovered some locals living there, as well as a few missionaries from other countries. We chatted at length and they showed me some of the most beautiful rock salt deposits. The way the sun lit them up made it look like snow, and I enjoyed the oddity of that. I've never collected such beautiful salts since then, and plan to go back when I can."
Mary smiled, remembering the quality of potions she'd made with that salt.
"Funny thing, I found the location from a muggle postcard. I suppose anything will do for apparation, but it was funny to think of that working out that way."
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Mary Brooding
It's a pleasure!
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Mary Brooding
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Tabitha Hawthorne
August 01, 2018 8:15 PM
Believe me, the pleasure is all mine. by Tabitha Hawthorne
Tabitha listened to Mary's Madagascan escapades with a smile on her face. It was true that Mary may have not had adventures that were as thrilling as Tabitha's, given the fact that she travelled for the sake of finding the best potion ingredients that the planet they lived on had to offer. It was admirable how she put in the effort to find the ingredients herself, making sure to find only the very best quality and producing what Tabitha had no doubt, were extraordinary potions in turn. Contrary to belief, Tabitha enjoyed hearing the calmer side of adventures so that she could view a country from a different perspective."Madagascar, huh? I know the place but I never set foot on the land," Tabitha murmured, remembering the heat of the place. "I was on a ship on the Indian Ocean, stuck, because of a creature called a Ramora. One of my safer trackings, that had been. They're beautiful and completely harmless, despite being considered one of the most powerful fish in the seas. I remember how the scales had shone so brilliantly in the sun and they'd anchored our ship in place, keeping us there. I like to thing that they were as curious about us as I was about them. Unfortunately, they're poached by fishing boats rather regularly. The International Confederation of Wizards have tried to enforce laws against such things but they can't always be on the seas."
She smiled softly, remembering her close up encounter when she had dived into the water. "I used a bubble head charm to get close, wanting to see them closer. As I said, they're harmless and can even be domesticated so it was safe. They let me touch them, feel their scales. One of them had even lost a couple of scales so I gathered and kept them and they still shine as beautifully as the day I brought them up from the water."
Tabitha let out a contented sigh, pleased to be sharing her tales with someone who was as interested in them as she had been when experiencing them. She turned her eyes to look at Mary, a warm smile on her face.
"I kept a series of journals, full of information about the different creatures and my travels. If you want some reading material, you're welcome to borrow them."
20
Tabitha Hawthorne
Believe me, the pleasure is all mine.
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Tabitha Hawthorne
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Mary Brooding
August 01, 2018 8:29 PM
Can we share it? by Mary Brooding
"I can't tell you how glad I am that you enjoy such things. Many people neglect the shiny things in life, and they really should be treasured more thoroughly than they are. Particularly those that come from something even more beautiful than they are." Mary smiled at the image of Tabitha swimming with a giant silvery fish"I'd love to read your journals," she said, mind racing at the possibilities. "I really think a collaboration between potion makers and defense magicians could go a long way towards the ethical treatment of magical and non-magical creatures, as well as the protection of their habitats and biomes."
She smiled at the stars before turning her head. "I'm rambling again, aren't I?" She laughed a bit. "But it really would be lovely to read your journals. You have such an interesting take on the world, it would be a shame not to share those. I do hope you'll use your notes in your lessons. Textbooks so often fail to expose the real-world experience of magic use, and that's something you're uniquely qualified to shed light on."
Mary wondered then at how she might bring herself to her classes and other than a cheery disposition, couldn't think of much. No matter, she would do her best, and a knowledgeable teacher was still a helpful one. What she wouldn't give for as much real-world knowledge as Tabitha, though. Potions in the real-world were much the same as potions in a classroom, save for a few alternate ingredients. Perhaps that would be her focus for older students this year.
She considered this and wondered if a field study might be possible at some point. The options were endless and she realized that her new friendship was one great source of that.
"You make me feel like the world is just waiting to be explored," she told her. "You make it seem so...suited to me. To everyone. We all have a story to live and an adventure to embark on. You're radiant when you speak of yours. I'm so excited to get to read about that in your journals, and learn more from you as the years go on."
22
Mary Brooding
Can we share it?
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Mary Brooding
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Tabitha Hawthorne
August 01, 2018 9:58 PM
Only if you ask nicely... by Tabitha Hawthorne
Tabitha's pride couldn't help but swell when Mary said that she'd love to read her journals. More than that, though, is that Mary wouldn't have yet realised how personal the offer was. The journals that Tabitha had filled held all of her experiences, all of her thoughts, sketches of creatures and places she'd been and, most personal of all, her feelings. Everything had been written down in Tabitha's cursive and the Defence professor felt as if there was a part of her soul in those books.Tabitha smiled when Mary started off on one of her intellectual tangents, always looking for ways to make the world a better place. Yes, she rambled but Tabitha found it endearing and an insight into Mary's caring and lovely personality.
"Well, when we travel together, that's definitely something we could explore. Could even keep a journal with our findings."
She winked at Mary, a smirk tugging at the corner of her lips. There was no longer an 'if' when it came to the proposal of the pair travelling together. Tabitha had made it her next big goal and was already planning out a journey to do at Christmas - the Appalachian Mountains and the Arctic might be too cold for the time of the year but there was always the Far East or the Meditteranean to consider.
She smiled when Mary complimented her on her ability to make the world seem so accessible. It was a firm belief of Tabitha's that the world was indeed like that and that anyone could explore it if they wanted to. You just had to have the courage and a healthy thirst for knowledge in whichever area you chose. Tabitha had chosen Defence, Mary had gone for Potions. You could easily study any subject out in the world. There were so many different nations and cultures out there that everybody had differing views on different things and to Tabitha, that was an amazing thing.
"I always say that if we were meant to stay in one place, we'd have roots instead of feet."
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Tabitha Hawthorne
Only if you ask nicely...
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Tabitha Hawthorne
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Mary Brooding
August 01, 2018 10:07 PM
Pleases and Thank-Yous to Go Around by Mary Brooding
Mary laughed at the comparison to trees, although she couldn't thinking of the trees that had been uprooted for the sake of broomstick manufacturing. This didn't seem like the right response, though, so she kept that thought to herself. Instead, she pondered this more."Perhaps," she laughed, "I am a bowtruckle. I'll wander a bit, but I think I always have a home someplace. Sonora's been my home for so long that I can't think of another place I'd say the same of, but I think that could change. Really, it's the people we love who make a place home for us. We always come back to them."
Mary knew she was dangerously close to being romantic again and she was trying desperately not to touch that region of conversation. Then, a sudden thought occurred to her and she rolled quickly onto her stomach.
"Tabitha!" she cried, laughing. Then, she laughed much harder. "Tabitha, the feast! We've no idea if it's over yet!"
Somehow, she found the idea hilarious and tears were soon falling on the grass as she struggled to figure out how to get up without ruining Tabitha's cloak.
"I bet they've done the speeches and everything, everything's all finished." She couldn't stop laughing, but finally managed to extricate herself and stand up. "If we get back, we might be able to sneak a goblet of wine each before bed," she pointed out.
Hurrying back sounded awful, though, so she offered a hand out to help Tabitha up, but only slowly. "Let us meander, my friend. It's a lovely night for a walk and we've a warm bed and lovely dreams to enjoy tonight."
Mary smiled, almost sadly, and a throbbing sort of peace settled over her chest. "This won't be the last night like this," she said, predicting that Tabitha would be concerned. She was concerned herself and certainly expected her new friend to be. "We'll have many more, and I can't tell you enough how much I'm looking forward to sharing more nights in your company."
22
Mary Brooding
Pleases and Thank-Yous to Go Around
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Mary Brooding
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Tabitha Hawthorne
August 01, 2018 11:10 PM
Until we meet again... by Tabitha Hawthorne
Tabitha took Mary's hand and as she was getting up, she was thrilled to be reunited with the warmth that she knew Mary's hands always offered and she flushed a light pink. She was pulled easily to her feet and then, after stretching to remove some stiffness from her limbs (which subsequently caused a few joints to pop), she picked up her robe from the grass and inspected it. The back had a few grass stains but they would easily be removed and, apart from those, it was fine. She laid it over arm, deciding to carry it.She was relieved that Mary wanted to spend more nights with that had been like this one, presumably with more tales of the stars and shared experiences of their travels. She'd also provide Mary with her journals and that would open up more doors for questions that she was sure the Potions professor would have.
"Next time, let's avoid making a run from the hall or they'll have us committed," she joked as the pair started to walk back out of the maze of hedges and back towards the school. Just as they reached the doors back into the school, Tabitha stopped and turned to Mary.
"I won't be coming back to the feast as I'm rather tired and I think we caused enough of a scene earlier so I'll just say this... Despite the little hiccup earlier," she smiled softly, putting a hand gently on Mary's shoulder and squeezing it, "I had a really lovely night and I'd love to do it again, as proper friends. I promised you that we could take it slow and I stand by that. Have a nice night and sleep well."
She pulled Mary into a hug that she hoped was warm and comforting before stepping away and heading into the Academy to head back to her rooms.
It didn't take long for Tabitha to reach her rooms but, without Mary, the walk back seemed colder and lonelier and the Defence professor already seemed to miss her presence. However, she was exhausted and sleep felt like a priority. She'd deal with all her mixed up and crazy feelings tomorrow, when she was well rested. Despite everything, she'd had truly had a lovely night and she didn't want to end it with negative thoughts or feelings.
Just before she started getting ready for bed, she remembered that she had promised Mary her journals from her travels and, deciding not to overwhelm the witch with all of them, she simply selected the first two. They were bother brown leather bound and the pages were starting to yellow at the edges, indicating their age. Tabitha wrapped them both in a brown paper and attached a small note, written in her neat cursive.
My first two journals for your perusal, dear friend. I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I enjoyed living them. - T
Satisfied, she started to make her way the owlery.
20
Tabitha Hawthorne
Until we meet again...
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Tabitha Hawthorne
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Mary Brooding
August 01, 2018 11:33 PM
Goodnight, Sweet One. by Mary Brooding
Their walk was short and the moment fleeting. Their hug and farewell was even moreso. Yet again, Mary found herself humming a quiet tune to herself. It had been a lovely evening with lovely company, and it seemed silly to end it all here. However, tomorrow would be a new day and she would hate to miss out on future adventures.Still, the moment didn't quite feel finished.
As she watched Tabitha disappear back into the school and heard the fading sounds of the Feast ending, Mary took a deep breath and smiled to herself. For a little while, she remained outside, enjoying the sweet aromas of the gardens, and feeling much more confident that this was going to be a good year at Sonora.
Eventually, she found herself yawning, and took that as a cue to head back inside. By the time she entered the front doors of Sonora, the Feast had ended and students gone to their rooms. The dark halls were a bit like a blanket in a cold room-- comforting and peaceful, but not enough to completely obliterate the coolness of the air.
Treading softly, Mary found her way back to her rooms near the Potions classrooms, and seated herself gently on her bed. On the windowsill near the open window was a brown paper package and a letter in neat cursive.
When she unwrapped Tabitha's journals, sleep didn't seem so important. Instead, Mary set the note on her bedside table, cast a dim light above her head, and cracked open the first book. Curled into her warm bed, her black hair undone, cleaned, and falling in cascades around her, Mary began the adventures of someone who somehow seemed very important all of a sudden.
Each page, written in perfect cursive, dotted with doodles, maps, and various other images, was a snapshot into Tabitha's brain and, more importantly, her heart. The first words on the first page of the first journal said more about the woman than Mary suspected she knew. She wondered if Tabitha could have known who would be reading this book when she wrote in careful letters the beginning of a very important story: her own.
Mary's fingers lingered on the page and she smiled as she whispered the first words aloud to herself:
Dear Reader,
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Mary Brooding
Goodnight, Sweet One.
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Mary Brooding
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