Dear Essie.

[Rukevra Vanderzuk]

As promised, the young Gryffindor made his way once more to the Owlry, having quilled out a letter of apology to Esmerelda. His realisation at the Yule Ball had arrived too late, but he felt the letter would be received well. Reaching the birds, Rukevra took hold of one; and attached the enveloped parchment to its leg. He could only hope he could be forgiven.

Esmerelda,

It has taken me several months to realise the mistakes I have made since arriving here. Over that time I have met several wonderful people whom I know now I could never do without. The warmth you showed me that night of my arrival cannot go un-thankful. I am forever grateful to you for your kind-ness and generosity. The four friends, and hopefully friends of mine, are lucky to have you. I cannot apologise enough for my sudden leave through the night.

My only hope is that you can find it within yourself to forgive me. I will understand if you cannot.

Give my best to everyone,

Rukevra.

After watching the bird soar into the distance, the young wizard made his way back to his dorm-room. It was almost time to leave the school. Almost time to return home.

 

[Esmerelda Smickett]

Esmerelda had just said goodbye to her young charge for the summer vacation, she was to spend Christmas with friends of Zazuka's and as much as Epiphany had been thrilled by this, Esmerelda had been devastated. She had come to love the little girl dearly and knew she would have loved to have had her giggling, quirky self here on Christmas morning to open her gifts. As she wiped a tear from her eye, knowing that the boys would all be along soon an owl arrived with a note.

At first she thought it was from Andromeda but not recognizing the writing she opened it and began to read. She smiled warmly, tutting in parts and deciding to put the poor boy out of his misery wrote him directly.

My dear Rukevra,

I am old enough by now to know when to take offense and when not to, when to ask questions and when to keep quiet. It warms me that you have finally begun to find the answers you seemed intent on seeking, I hope they were all you hoped they would be. There is nothing to forgive, my door is always open and my fireplace usually free. Do not be a stranger, you have friends here in all of us.

I wish you only the best young man, do not be so hard on yourself. Life is hard enough without adding to it. I wish you a Merry Yuletide.

My Kindest Wishes,
Blessed Be,

Essie Smickett

 

[Rukevra Vanderzuk]

Upon making his journey from the newest castle walls, Rukevra was interrupted by the screech of an owl. Looking up-wards, the young wizard watched the bird spiral above him before dropping a letter; which proceeded to land at his feet. Scowling slightly, the Gryffindor leant forward; and scooped the letter from the ground. Opening it, Rukevra read the contents quietly to himself; and felt a warm tingle run through him. So far everything was going to plan. People he had begun to forgive him.

Folding up the letter, Rukevra began his journey home. What was to happen during his time with his parent was yet un-clear.