The Audacity Of Hope

[Stefan Archer]

Out of Character:

This topic is open, once Kate(Johanna) has replied

The idea of hope exists in almost every person. It's an underlying part of life. Driving people, making them work harder, work more for the hope of something else. Whether a new job, a better house, pretty much anything can been driven by hope. It can drive a life. Though some would argue the idea of hope can be lost. A dangerous thing, to lose hope. Now, that's something most would rather never happen to them. But, as much as hope was one of the major things that drove life, and how bad people held on, it could be lost. It could be given up on. Hope lost, the belief that nothing could be better. For a certain young man, the idea of losing hope was beyond him. While the worst moments in his life had been happening, the hope he had was the only thing clinging him to this mortal earth. For without his hope, he had nothing else. Hope drove some towards the ideas of better homes, better behaved kids, for him, hope was the only thing that kept him giving up. The only thing that had been with him for his entire life. He had never learned about the idea of religion, or a higher power. He had never had the chance to believe in that. His higher power, of sorts was hope. He didn't pray to it, he begged it. Begged for his life on an almost daily basis. Because he truly believed it would get better. He knew at the very bottom of his heart, that the storm would not last forever. It simply couldn't. No storm did last forever after all. Rain always gave way for sunshine. The wind always died down. It couldn't be bad forever. Those simple hopes, what a normal person might take for granted, kept the young man alive. Kept him going. Stefan Archer was a seventeen year old young adult. He stood tall, just about 6ft. His father had been tall, little did he know that all Archers were tall. He had more hope than most, his life was driven by hope. He didn't know where he would be without the simple hope to see another sunrise. To watch the sun come up in the morning. But for Stefan, the hope might've seemed pointless. Because his hand in life had been less than fair. He had been born into the most normal of families, a mother, a father, a home. But since his first sunrise on earth, things had gotten steadily worse. It had been so bad that, Stefan could barely talk about it. He just tensed up, fought the memories that could leave him feeling no better than the dirt upon the ground. It was hard, he didn't have family to turn to, his mother had died years before, and his father...well, he was the route of most problems. Stefan's desire to speak to him wasn't great. Maybe get a few answers, but he had no desire to have to speak to him. He was glad the man was dead. It was a weight off his shoulders, one less thing to worry about. One less thing on his mind. One less thing he had to hope for.

Following a fairly length absence from school, the now, 7th year Slytherin had returned. it hadn't been a snap decision. He had decided that it would be best for him. That he couldn't really go wrong by doing such a thing. Life on his own hadn't been horrible, he had always tried to have enough, but he was young, underage in the muggle world, with no qualifications and no school records. It didn't work in his favour. He had begun to think about coming back months before, but only a month or so before the start of term had he found the courage, and then pen to ask to be readmitted. Here he was, at Hogwarts. Back for his last year, a chance to graduate. A chance to get something in the way of qualifications and go on with his life. To keep moving up. To keep his chances up. He had spent every minutes since the arrival the evening before getting set up in his dorm. Putting what few things he still owned back into his bit. That looked like exactly how he had left it. It hadn't changed. Something he was grateful for, knowing that unlike what his father had always liked to say, he was not replaceable easily replaceable with someone else. Stefan hadn't been in the mood for any dinner, he hadn't been in the mood for the welcome back feast or sorting. Sure, it would've been his last, but it was long, and he wanted to get slowly readjusted to school life. After first living with a horrible muggle family, then briefly returning and leaving to live on the streets, readjusting the structures of everyday school life would be hard for him. He had never been particularly good at school. It was silly to think he'd find this easy, the amount of catch up he would have to do. The sheer amounts he had missed would not go unnoticed. But, Stefan had hope. He knew in his heart he could do it. There was never a reason to doubt that he couldn't. He was young, he was finally free of all the other issues he'd had before. No more normality for a term, then back to his father, who would make his life hell. Who would make him feel, with each kick or punch, the hope slip out him. Flowing away like the blood had been. He was hopeful that he could do it. And there was one other reason he was keen to be back. One reason he was glad to be back, Kate. He loved her. With the hope, had been the hope of them. The thought that he wasn't good enough for her strong in his mind, but, he hoped one day he could be. With her by his side, with the memories of her in his mind, he knew that there was nothing he wouldn't be able to do. Nothing he couldn't achieve. His hope, and his love for her were an unbeatable force within him. Stronger than could be imagined.

By the time morning came, Stefan had never felt so relaxed. In all his life, there was always something, or someone to worry about. He had spent the last year or so slept on a thin mattress upon the floor, nothing but a thin old duvet to keep him warm. This was hugely different. For one, it didn't feel like the floor. It also didn't feel like the ice could grow on the inside of the window. It felt normal. For the first time, he awoke from little nightmares, he was in a warm bed, and he didn't have the thought in his head, of if he would see the next day, the next sunrise. Which for this boy had once seemed impossible. But, here he was, seventeen, seventh year, alive and well. Well, as well as he could be. Kate had sent him money before the start of the holidays, which had been great for Stefan, he had been so grateful. Mostly because while he had told her he had little of everything, it was sugarcoating it. He hadn't had much at all. Nothing to last him the six weeks of holiday. She had probably, once again saved his life. Because no matter how much hope that Stefan knew he could muster, it wouldn't muster food without which he would've died. The money had helped keep him alive for the holiday, and he had enough, to keep himself alive coming the Christmas break. While he knew that he had little worries at Hogwarts, and few at home. He still had to be able to eat. He couldn't not. The thought of food, made the boy's stomach grumble loudly. He had eaten the day before, very little, but he had known he had this day, and all the days following it. School was his chance to eat. It had always been. Pushing himself out of bed, the Slytherin went for a shower. Another thing he hadn't really had. He'd had a shower in his home, but it barely worked, and the water hadn't exactly warm. This was a welcome difference. One thing about this boy which would never change was his eyesight. It was as terrible as always. Blurry, and everything in black and white. It was a little annoying, but it was the least of his worries. It had always been. It wasn't something he ever spent much time worrying about. It wasn't changeable. It just was. Stefan quickly threw on some clothes, they were new, he had gone to get some. He had outgrown most of his old clothes. He was wearing a simple pair of dark blue jeans, and very simple plain white t-shirt, he added his usual black jumper, though this one was new, since he had outgrown the last, thankfully. Kate's money had gone a long way. The jumper was barely worn, still soft. Though, unlike when he'd previously been at Hogwarts, Stefan left the jumper unzipped, and had pushed up the sleeves. This was a new day, a new beginning, and all that was left were scars, and old faded burn marks. He was still thin, Stefan had really never not been thin. He looked thinner than before he'd left, mostly because living alone didn't lend itself to having food. But that was it. If he hadn't been, and people could avoid looking at the scars, Stefan appeared almost completely normal.

There were nerves in his stomach, as he made his way through the Slytherin area. Some people seemed to remember him, looked towards him. It put him a little on edge, he really didn't expect most people to remember who he was, much less acknowledge who he was. He'd been several issues of the Rumor Has It magazine, but, that was over now, surely? Stefan ignored it, as he made his way to the great hall. Part of him just wanted to go to the Kitchens to eat, but he had someone to see. Someone he had greatly missed. For even the hope stopped working alone. Before his hope had seemed pointless, it began to seem pointless just as he had gone into first year to him. He had never imagined anything better. He had never imagined Hogwarts, and what fun would it be if he was always worried about home. It was what had been on his mind in his first year, but when he was beginning to lose it, the memories of his school days came flooding back, and he finally had a reason to be hopeful. Before, it had really been blind hope. He had been spending each day being beaten, more or less. There had been nothing he could do to avoid it, suddenly he had friends, and a girl he liked. He had everything that been out of reach before. He had never thought that would happen to him. Never. He had never thought that his life would get better. How could it? But, despite all of this, he hoped. He hoped so that one day, just like that day, he could walk through the halls, almost carefree. With excitement in his heart over seeing his girl, and the feeling that nothing could bring him down anymore. He felt strong for the first time. Hope, his foolish hope had given him that. The deep belief that hope would see him through had worked. Stefan Archer took a deep breath, before walking into the Great Hall. Standing at the entrance letting the smell of breakfast wash over him, as he stood looking for Kate. For the first time, things seemed fairly close to perfect. He no longer doubted all his decisions before then. He knew that he had done the right thing, now he was just pleased to be back. Pleased to be looking for his girlfriend. Longing to hold her in his arms again, something he hadn't had the chance to do in a long while. A chance to tell her he loved her. This year, would be perfect. He knew it.
​

 

[Kate Archer]

Kate had been looking forward to her last year of Hogwarts. Of course she wasn't happy it was her last year, she loved Hogwarts and would hate to leave it. But she had to face the facts, soon she would be up on a podium , in front of her year, their friends and family and her own friends and family making her speech at their graduation ceremony. She would be saying goodbye to the life she had known for seven years. Hogwarts was more a home to her then her home in England. It would be closing one chapter of her life but she would be starting a new one. She was looking forward to that and though she would miss Hogwarts terribly she was excited to be starting a new stage of her life. She was going to enjoy her last year. She did have some bad memories in Hogwarts, ones she would rather not remember. The first five years of Hogwarts had not been the happiest years of her life. Lots of things had happened that had made her want to hide in a room and not face the rest of the world. She was ashamed of some of the things she had done. She would never admit it to anyone, she was ashamed of what happened in second year. She had never believed she would go so low. She had hit rock bottom that year, she had never recovered from it all. Her weight had never got back to normal she hoped in time she got to a more stable and healthy weight. She was content with her weight for the moment but Kate hated the looks she got sometimes. Life was looking good though, she had come through the storm and for the past year and a bit, good things had started happening in her life.

A recent good and big thing that had happened in her life was being made Head Girl. Never in her wildest dreams had she thought she would get Head Girl. She had never been prefect so the thought of ever being head girl had never really crossed her mind. Sure she had wished that she could get the position. But actually getting it had never crossed her mind. She was delighted with herself and proud. The Headmistress must have seen something in her, Kate wasn't completely sure what that was but she was delighted that it had shone through. She would do her best not to let her down. She wondered what other people's reaction her appointment would be. To be honest she didn't really care. Nothing would dampen her spirits over this. No matter what people said she wouldn't ever second guess herself. More great news was that Star had gotten prefect. Everyone in the family now except Ryan had achieved positions. Star had been shocked needless to say. It was nice to see her work being rewarded. Star didn't believe what a wonderful person she was and it was nice to see her actually believe for once she deserved something. She knew Star was going to take her job very seriously which was cute in a way. Her baby sister always threw herself into things and she would try her best to be the best. Their parents were very proud. Two prefects and one head girl. They didn't want to make much of a big deal about it at home, after all they all knew Ryan was feeling the sting of being the only one not prefect. He knew if he had just told them about his problems in second year he wouldn't have been stuck in his old world for three more years. What was done had been done and she was sure he would get used to it and get over it in time.

Kate got dressed quickly. She couldn't wait to see him, her boyfriend. She hadn't seen him since Christmas and she missed him. She really hoped he was down their in the Great Hall, waiting for her. She couldn't wait to be in his arms again. Last Christmas had been so special. She wondered would anyone notice Stefan coming back. She was glad he had been allowed return for his final year. She would do her best to help him catch up if he needed any help. She wanted him to do the best. Life is always easier if you have good marks from school. She was so proud of him for persevering even when life had constantly brought him down. She loved him dearly and she wasn't sure what she would do without him. When she had her dark moments, happy memories with him always helped her get back on track. He was her star, the person who would always get her through her dark moments. She was so happy she had someone,someone she could count on and trust with her life.There were very few people Kate trusted with her life. Stefan was her best friend and boyfriend. Even though he had caused her more worry and pain then she would like to admit she had forgiven him for that and she knew it would never happen again. She did worry when he was living in his house by himself with no support. But at least she knew where he was and that he was alive. That had taken a huge weight from her shoulders. She had gone through so much heart-break in fifth year, she had just lost it. The three years prior had just taken their toll, Stefan leaving had been the final straw and she had broke down, thankfully her friends had been their to support her and all that was behind her now.

She quickly walked down the stairs to the Great Hall. Butterflies were flying in her stomach. She couldn't wait to see him, to feel his arms around her. To tell him she loved him. She walked into the Great Hall and looked around for him. She found him and their eyes met. She smiled, a huge genuine smile. She quickly walked over, and near the end sprinted towards him. She crashed into him and enveloped him a huge hug. She really hoped she hadn't hurt him too bad but she was just so excited to see him and she had missed him so much. She came out of the hug and looked at him for a few minutes before leaning in and kissing him.

 

[Stefan Archer]

The young adult had always wondered about where he would end up. In the first days of Hogwarts, when he had first started to walk through the grand halls of the ever magical school, had been the biggest time of his wondering. It had been the first real time he had been without his father, the first time he'd really truly been safe, warm and well fed. If he was left without his father before first year, it meant his father had simply forgotten to come home. He had no idea at that point what the school would do for him. What it would give him. He had simply no idea of what he would gain from being at school. Even now, just about six years later he was really only beginning to realise what the school had truly done for him. His hope had carried him through the holidays but his determination at the thought of a better life drove him. Drove him further than ever before. The school, he had figure was his ticket out of the painful life. Away from the hellishness that was his home life. From the absolute torture he had to endure at the hands of the only family he had left. He had never imagined that he'd ever be free of the man, he had wished, and hoped but there had been a part of him that had thought it was pointless wishes, and a fools hope, but he was rid of him. There was no more horrid foster family, nothing. He was more on his own than ever, but, he had never been so surround. At long last he realised that people cared about him. He was reminded of it. In Kate, in Elvera, when she had first told him that he hadn't pushed everyone away. That had surprised him. He was sure it was probably untrue, but he would find out soon. After all, Kate still cared. She cared about him, that much he was certain of. That much he was hopeful would never change. He knew his loved wouldn't. A part of him didn't think that if she left him, in any way that he'd be able to push through. After all in his eyes there was only so much a person had to take before it was okay to give up. However, if she wanted to not be with him, he'd let her go. He just knew he wouldn't get over it. He'd just be nothing. It was when he thought like that, that he really believed his father hadn't meant what he'd done. Stefan hated his father, but there were days where he didn't blame the man for what he'd done to him. Losing the love of his life. That would make any person angry. It would make him frustrated and annoyed. He wouldn't hurt people, but in his mind, it justified everything. That was on the slightly better days.

When he was around Kate, he found that his father's words barely mattered. He found he truly believed that it wasn't his fault. That he wasn't to blame at all. It wasn't often he felt like that. He didn't want the feeling to go away. The second he noticed her, he smiled. He didn't know how she had managed to make it so easy for him to smile, but she had. He didn't need to be told to be happy. He didn't need to force it. It came easily, that and he was the happiest he'd been since their Christmas. "Kate," He said, with a longing sigh. He was about to step towards her, when in a blur she crashed into him. It took him a moment to be sure that he had steady footing on the ground. He wrapped his arms around her and held her close. He had missed how right she felt against him. He missed the way she smelled perfectly, the way, despite his eye sight, he knew he could truly see her. He had missed everything about her. The way she made him feel, by just being nearby. The hug broke, and he responded by kissing her, as passionately as she was kissing him. He readjusted his arm to her lower back, and dipped her, keep his lips on hers. To think when he had first arrived the thought of someone touching him made him flinch. He broke the kiss and just smiled at her, coming out of the dip. He kept her close, keeping his eyes on hers, with the small smile on his face. "Hi," Stefan muttered to her. He let his fingers slide and interlace with hers. He had missed her so much. The reason he had come back in the first place was to be near her. He hadn't even realised how much he had truly missed her until that moment. "I love you." Stefan added, not moving his eyes away. He had come a long way since first year. The scars existed, but he had managed to grow. To continue on, to not let it define him completely. He knew the feeling of euphoria with her would fade, they'd be a more normal couple, but he hadn't seen his girlfriend in six months, he wanted to hold her in his arms for forever. He knew he was hungry, but even that didn't matter, with her. She was one of the biggest reasons he was able to enjoy this morning. That he had lived to see that morning. Even if this was the last year before they went out to the big world outside the doors, he was happy to spend that morning just enjoying everything that was perfect in his life. Kate.
​

 

[Tara Sitara]

Tara woke up early like she had done all holidays as part of her work had been that she had to get the food ready for the guptas when they woke up. she had just enjoyed lying in bed this morning whilse everyone else was asleep, reading through a book that she had borrowed of meera, a hindi story about a princess. after a while she heard kate get up and head down to breakfast. she looked at the clock and realised that it was almost time to make a move. she finished the chapter where the princess was at the market dressed as a servant. she then got up and dressed in some nice clothes she had bought with a small part of her wages. she then but her brush through her hair and headed down to the great hal for breakfast very grateful that she wasn't the one cooking it. she was hungry and as she walked she was fantasising about hot food, maybe a bowl of porridge with raspberry jam in it.
as she entered the hall she looked for somewhere to sit. it felt odd being one of the oldest students here, although she was rather short she was sure the first years were getting smaller. She saw Kate talking to someone. she couldn't quite see who it was. maybe it was sammy. she headed over to them glad to see her friends. "Good morning Kate" she said smiling before she realised who the other person was. "Stefan. You're back" she exclaimed. She was about to give him a hug until she remembered two things, one he didn't like people touching him, and two he was dating kate. instead she sort of ended up offering a handshake but standing a lot closer to him than normal. she quickly moved back. she looked between them. "sorry i didn't mean to interrupt anything" she said looking for another seat further down the table she sat down leaving space for her friends on one side and there was a fourth year on the other. before she started helping herself to the hot oats.

 

[Sara Moon]

Sara woke up, feeling completely out of it. She'd gone out in Obsidian Harbour, an her head was wrecked, the music had been so loud, but it was well worth it. She'd had so much fun. Her Mam and Dad weren't happy with her, but she didn't care That wasn't true. She did. She'd done badly last year. She'd failed Potions for God's sake! She never failed anything. Ever. That wasn't the problem though. Herbology was. She'd never been good at the subject, and she'd gotten an A. You needed an E to go onto Seventh Year. She was ready to drown herself in a pool of misery. she'd never be an auror now. This Summer (She still couldn't get used to the whole Summer/Winter thing in New Zealand.) had been her tonic. She'd gotten into a new, more...daring style of clothing, met some new, random people. None of whom she was keeping in contact with. She'd work this year, sure, but what was the point when her dreams had gone down the drain?
She pulled on a new outfit she'd gotten herself last week. It a a bit more risky than people in Hogwarts were used to seeing her, but she didn't care. Or did she?

She walked down to the Great Hall, pulling up the zip of her jacket for modesty's sake. As soon as she walked into the hall, she was glad she had. She saw her sister, her arms around some tall guy, dark hair, Tara was there. What the hell was going on? When Kate and mystery man pulled apart, Sara gasped, running over to the group. "Oh my God!" she blurted, desperately wanting to hug him, but holding back, she knew better. Stefan. Him and Kate. They were together, finally, she smiled broadly as she saw that he had his arms around her; "If you don't mind me saying....about time! Merlin's pants it only took you around six years!" she laughed, briefly placing a hand of Stefan's shoulder, her tone changed, and through the heavy eye make-up she wore, she could feel tears welling; "I missed you. Hogwarts is a bore without someone to argue with." she smiled, removing her hand. Since Willow, and Kayden had gone, Stefan had become more important to her, and it was amazing to see him happy. Still, she was getting ahead of herself, calm it down Sara. She leaned against the table, looking at everyone. "So-any news? Aside from the fact that our favourite New Zealander has returned." she grinned, throwing Stefan a wink. I have plenty, I'm pissed with the world, dreading the future and absolutely scared out of my skin. Still, I wouldn't dare let you see that. She smiled broadly, hoping against hope that they wouldn't ask any questions.

 

[Kate Archer]

Kate was worried about her twin. They weren't close by any of the stretch of the imagination But she was still her sister and it seemed her sense of style and mood had changed over the holidays. Kate knew about her results, it was very unlike her sister and she wondered had she been affected badly because of the results. Currently Kate was keeping an eye out for all her siblings. How things had changed. Only a few years ago they were all looking out for her and now she was looking out for them . Her parents weren't impressed with Sara and they had asked her to look out for her. It wasn't too hard, things would be easier if they were in the same house , she always had an eye out for her though. She wasn't happy with what she was seeing which sucked because she wanted to enjoy her last year of Hogwarts not be worrying about her older sister. She thought this was the year of no worrying but alas something had come up. She was going to enjoy her year and try and help her sister, she wasn't sure how, they got on but one to one conversations weren't their thing. It would just be awkward if she tried to comfort her sister or ask her on the level of a twin what was wrong with her. She'd talk to Ryan and Star about it, Ryan would probably be the best option for talking to her or maybe she would tell Tara or Stefan her worries.

Kate wrapped her arms around him, her face lit up with a smile. It felt so good to wrap her arms around him once more. She felt like a ray of sunshine whenever she was around him. She felt like she could take on the whole world with him by her side. She had never felt that way with anyone before and she felt so blessed to have someone like Stefan. Someone who loved her completely for who she was. Flaws and all. The familiar sent of him reminded her of the Christmas they had spent together, her smile widened further. She was so happy to see him, to be with him. He kissed her back as passionately as she was kissing him. She felt herself dipping slightly but she kept her lips on Stefan's and went with it,enjoy the sensation. To think last time they had been in the Great Hall , Stefan had felt uncomfortable with her hugging him. How things had changed. The kiss ended and Kate met his gaze and smiled. They came out of the dip but she kept close and their fingers interlaced. It was in this moment she remembered one of the reasons why life was worth living. "Hey"she whispered back, totally unaware of the bustle of the Great Hall. She felt as if it was just her and Stefan. "I love you so much"She said back, her eyes still meeting his. The smile still on her face as he held her close, their fingers interlaced and gazes meeting. This was one of the moments she was going to remember. It had been what six months since she had seen him last and being close to him was what she had been longing to do for that length of time.

Kate was reminded that they were not alone but actually in a hall full of students when she heard a familiar voice. "Morning Tara"She said moving away from Stefan slightly so Tara didn't feel excluded or anything. She smiled at Tara's reaction. She wondered what Sara's reaction was going to be. She really wasn't sure what to be expect. "Don't worry"She said reassuring Tara. Kate was going to go over and sit down when Sara came over. Kate smiled, she was right. Almost six years but that didn't matter. They were together now. Kate managed to keep the smile on her face and keep her face neutral to her sister's appearance. Her sister was in deeper then she thought. "How have you been Sara?"Kate asked, she was slightly annoyed at her sister for sinking like this. After all the giving out she had done to her and Ryan and here she was doing it to herself.

 

[Stefan Archer]

Hearing the words spoken back to him, let the smile erupt once more. The same simple smile that he only had for her. A reminder that she actually loved him was nice. It was easy in his head to tell himself that she loved him, but every time she said it, his heart would race in a way he had once only associated with fear. It would pound against his chest relentless and heavy. His brittle ribs were left with the feeling that they would break. He had come to learn it was just something he associated with the feeling of just about anything like love, fear and nerves. He would've never known it. The feeling brought so many things that he didn't want to ever really mention. So, he just filled it with the association of his love for her, and her love for him. It was easy for him to feel invincible when she had said such a thing. Stefan had never known love before then, he hadn't ever really felt it. This made him feel wanted, and it made him feel like he'd always be okay as long as she loved him. That he'd manage no matter what. Love was more powerful in him, because he hadn't known it before. Because it was so new to him, rather than something that had always existed. It was odd how different some folks were brought up. Stefan knew that Kate's childhood had been nothing like his, but he imagined that the love she had for him was just as strong as any other love she might have in her life already. Stefan was still new to idea of being in love. It was why it had scared him. He had never known that it could be okay to be so open with someone. He had never known that it was okay for him to accept people. To let them be around him. He was learning, almost everything from scratch, not having been given the manual people got given from their parents on love. He knew he was lucky, Stefan knew his life could be worse, he knew he could've let his anger get the better of him, become just like his father. He fought that anger, because after all, he was his father's son. But, unlike his father, he would never sink to that. That was the true indication that he had lost. That his father had won. But, staring down at Kate, her smile, the way she looked so perfect, the way he thought he could feel her kindness and love. It was all he ever wanted from the world, and he knew his anger would never win. It was all he had ever hoped for during all those years. It was just funny how long it had taken him to realise that what he'd been looking and hoping for almost all his life had been in front of him from the age of 11. Stefan wanted to kiss her again, he wanted to do everything to show that he loved her. He wanted to show the entire world. He just wanted to show that things could be right in the world. That the bad stuff did end.

The slytherin prepared himself to kiss her, when a second voice broke his thoughts. He was very suddenly reminded that they were not alone. Stefan looked in the direction, and felt himself smiling when his eyes were greeted with a blurry picture of Tara. He had missed her, she'd always shown him kindness he'd always figured he'd taken for granted. She was the kind of person who'd at first been a distant friend, but her birthday, and everything about each time they met was in his memory. She was kind, she had always been kind to him. Stefan felt bad if he had ever worried her, or done something that had upset her. He nodded as she spoke. He smiled at her outstretched hand. He felt like maybe he should try to hug her, so, in a very shy fashion, he'd brush away her hand, and wrapped his arms around him. This was a good day. On a good day, he was confident. His thoughts of his father were minimal, and they'd been friends so long, she wouldn't hurt him, he wasn't afraid of that. However, the hug was a little stiff and quick. He had to show that he was better. He couldn't let Kate, or Tara think that he was still the same scared boy who ran from just about everything. He'd been about to put his arm back around Kate, when a third voice appeared. He looked round, and found the smiling getting, if possible even wider. Sara, all they really needed was Willow and the old gang was back together. All about to graduate. He smiled at her. Sara felt like family to him. Now more than before since he was dating her sister. He was worried that she might not approved. He remember what she'd said in second year. Not good enough. Something like that. Those words were uttered years before, but a part of the Monochromat still believed them to be true. Today however, was a good day, and he found he barely believed it. He didn't notice anything odd about her, or her clothing, he'd been away so long, he had no idea if it did actually mean anything. He really didn't have the manual on everyday life at school, he'd lost it in the chaos of his life. He'd missed the last few years. She like Tara said he was back, and like Tara retreated from giving him a hug, but like Tara he broke away from Kate, and wrapped his arms shyly around Sara and gave her a small quick hug, before putting his arm around Kate and holding her close to him. Letting his finger interlace with hers. "I couldn't be with her, when I was still living with" He paused, he wouldn't let this encroach on this joyous day. "Six years ago, I just wasn't ready" He smiled at her, a little less strongly, but he still meant it. He nodded at her, then to Tara.

"I've missed you both, and you both look great" Stefan smiled at them. He had truly missed them. Them, Willow, Georgiana. Everyone that he had left behind. Though that wasn't too many folk. "Well, if you need someone to argue with, I'll be about." He shrugged at Sara. He was so glad to be back, after such a rocky year it was nice to be back in a form of normality. He looked at Sara, no news on his front. Nothing worth sharing. "Nothing news worthy, really." He said slowly, with a small smile. He looked at Kate as she asked how Sara was, he hadn't noticed anything particularly off about her. Stefan just thought she looked a little worried. As were most people. He wasn't because his worrying now would do no good. Do no difference. He wasn't going to be a high achiever. He was happy to settle for whatever he could get. "Tara, Sara. I'm glad you're both here, actually" He squeezed Kate's hand lightly, it had occurred to him as he thought of his future that he had to account for his past. "I want to apologize. For any of the times I wasn't a good enough friend. For leaving and not saying anything and for all the lies I told you, about you know. I'm sorry" He knew it wasn't entirely something to be sorry for, but he knew he hadn't thought of anyone else but himself a lot of the time. He had known that his friends were dealing with issues they might've desired a friend for, and he'd just left. Stefan also knew that during their years of friendship he'd not been the most honest. Kate knew more about it now, but he still wasn't that comfortable talking about it. "I just wanted you to know that." He looked down at his feet, and then up at Kate. "So, I guess that's my news. However, I'm back and I'm not going anywhere. It's just me now, I'm staying for the long term. You lot are stuck with me now." Stefan smiled at them. His friends. His girlfriend, and his friends. Well, this would be the best of years.
​

 

[Tara Sitara]

Tara nodded when Kate said that she wasn't interrupting anything, sure she was trusting but she could see that there was something going on between them. She reached for the honey feeling bad for interrupting them however he saw someone else coming over to them. this girl was harder to recognise than Stefan was. "Sara" she said a little surprised. Sara had always looked Classy yet a little quirky, but now she looked older, like she had given up on class and just wanted to have fun. She chuckled as sara said it was about time. she was glad that the two were together, though she knew they had been dating for a while already. "It is better to give some time to make sure you are ready tan having things rushed he said her relationships had both been rushed and neither had ended well. she could tell that stefan had wanted to say more, but she had long learned that he took time trusting. she hoped one day he would trust her, but didn't want to push him. "you don't need to apologise for not being good enough friend. I'm sorry for not being a particularly good friend to you either, for being selfish. hopefully i will be a better friend too this year" she said. although selfish was not what people would accuse Tara of being she saw that she had been quite a bit over the last few years. she had an order of whos needs she put first with her family on the top followed by friends she put herself t the bottom under strangers. recently she had felt like she had been putting her own desires too high and not giving her friends the support they diserved.
when sara asked if they had any news she listened to stefan then gave her own. "I am glad you have decided to stay. no news from me. I have been working all holiday in france." she said. "c'est bon. j'ai appris une petite français" she said in french with an odd indian accent to it. she was saying it was good and i learned a little french, though only on summer she wasn't most perfect, or even particularly good. she wondered what everyone else had been up to

 

[Sara Moon]

Sara smiled as Stefan hugged her, giving him a little squeeze. That was a big step for them. She'd missed him, so much. He felt like a big brother of sorts. The castle felt safer with him around, and Kate was happier. That was good. She grinned at his response. She ignored his comment about living with his Father. She doubted he'd appreciate her dwelling on that. "I'm so glad you're together now. I've never known two people more perfect for each other." she replied in earnest. They were a good couple, and it was lovely to see them so comfortable with each other. She grinned as Tara told them about her Summer. She loved France, and French was one of her favourite languages; "C'est magnifique! Avez-vous eu un bon sejour?" She replied, her accent was off, and it sounded beautiful coming out of Tara's mouth. It had been a while since she'd spoken French, but she was pretty sure she'd said 'That's wonderful! did you have a good stay?'

Sara smiled as Stefan apologized; "It's all water under the bridge. I'm sorry I always got so angry with you. I was being selfish and that's not what you needed." she replied, looking at him sheepishly. She'd been terrible, and she'd stopped that, covered up her temper, but she could feel it boiling underneath the surface all the time. She couldn't let it go...But she desperately wanted to. She could see how Kate was looking at her, and blushed slightly. Her family didn't approve. They didn't get that for the past seven years she'd spent her time worrying about Kate, how she was coping without Stefan, her anorexia, her illness, about Ryan, his bullying, his strange behavior. She was sick of worrying. She wanted to stop caring, because what use was she now? What use was the girl without a future?

She smiled at Stefan's little speech. "Good. We're glad to be stuck with you." she laughed, and at Kate's question her eyes narrowed slightly, not that you'd notice through the make-up. "I'm fine, this Summer was great, well I guess it's Winter here!" she replied. "I just want to have a bit of fun." she finished. Kate needed to relax. It wasn't like there was anything seriously wrong.

 

[Kate Archer]

Kate's heart melted inside when Stefan smiled again.Ever since she could remember, his smile had always made her smile no matter how she felt. It just made her so happy to see him smile. Stefan was so much happier these days, it was such a great change. To think of what he had been like last time he was in school. Fifth year had been a year of heartbreak for Kate. He had left her. She had forgiven him for it and she sort of understood why he had done it.Things were so much better these days. She hadn't been this happy in a long while. Whenever she was with Stefan she felt on top of the world. No one made her feel the way she felt about him. Not even her family made her feel this happy. Especially in recent years. Things had just gone downhill for them since they moved to England. Kate had so many better and happier memories in Ireland but the few happy memories she had with Stefan were more special to her and made her feel happier. Plus Stefan never annoyed her like her family did. She had worried about him like her family probably more but for not as long. Things with her family would never be the way they had been, too much had happened them all for things to ever be the same. It was a shame really because they had once been such a close knit family/. But people change, every single Moon had changed. Something had happened them to become the way they are now, some for better some for worse.

Kate smiled as he hugged Tara and Sara, that just showed how much he had moved on since he was here last. Kate smiled up at him, she understood where he was coming from. She gave his hand a comforting squeeze. She nodded in agreement with what Tara said, they had had to wait until Stefan was ready and to be honest Kate wouldn't have been ready six years ago. They were a lot older and mature and more ready for a relationship.She couldn't be happier now, things were good for them. She loved him so much. She found herself smiling at him. She was so proud of him. He was a much happier person now and even more confident. Here she was, his arms around her. She wondered what RHI would think of them. She didn't care, it proved it was extremely wrong about Stefan being dead but the last issue had been complete rubbish anyways.She hoped it was gone for good. Kate noticed that it was almost as if the old gang was back. Willow was the only person missing, Kate hadn't seen in her ages and she hoped everything was okay. Kate looked at each person in turn, how much their lives had changed since second year. They had all changed so much some for better but unfortunately some for worse. She was so happy that they were all talking again and that they were all back again, if only Willow was here but she wouldn't dwell on that for now.

Kate smiled, she had done French also but it was rusty. She should really start practicing it again. It was a lovely language and she loved the country. Obviously Sara got the meaning of her question. Kate just didn't know why her sister was acting this way. It was just bad marks, obviously something else was happening. She was acting the exact same way Ryan had and look where that got him. She wished Sara would just talk to someone and tell them what was wrong. She doubted she was going to tell her though, Kate didn't really care as long as she told someone and sorted out what was going on with her. If Sara decided this was the way she wanted to live her life, Kate decided that that would be none of her business she just wished it wasn't so wild because her parents were tearing their hair out. "Well I got head girl"She said quietly, smiling up at Stefan and then looking at Tara. Sara knew already, her news was more towards Tara and Stefan. She hadn't told anyone but Artemis and Sammy "That's all my news, nothing else exciting happened."Kate said smiling "What sort of work were you doing in France?"Kate asked Tara curiously.

 

[Stefan Archer]

There was nothing in Stefan's life at that point that he hadn't carefully considered. He had worked hard at everything, to be sure that what he had was good. That it wouldn't hurt him. It wouldn't make things worse for him. It was just simple. It was the simple way of looking at things. It was looking at things and being sure that he would be safe. He'd spent too many years barely surviving to be careless now. No matter how good things could seem, he was a cautious kid. He wouldn't do anything unless he was sure it was the right decision. Which was why he was glad to be back at school, glad to know he'd made all the right decisions leading up to this point. All the work he'd put in, to making it this far had paid off. He was happy, he had a girlfriend and friends. Neither of which he had rushed into either. A guy like him couldn't simply rush into things. He couldn't simply just make a spontaneous decision. He had so much to consider. So much he had to think about. All the pros and cons. The return to school, getting together with Kate, deciding to run away from the foster home, none of that had been rushed. Of all those things, he knew if he'd rushed things with Kate they might not be so good now. And before, when he first sort of realised he liked her, there had been the issue of his father. How could he possibly have even thought about Kate and the possibility of them, when his father made his life so miserable. He couldn't have possibly been ready to feel any sort of real love then. His idea of love involved being continuously hurt. No, as Tara had said, rushing was bad. He had made the right choice, and he couldn't be happier with it. He had his arm around Kate. He could the beating of her heart. Slower than his own. He hated being apart from her, though like anything they had to be apart from time to time. He gave a warm smile, as his eyes drifted to look at Kate. He kissed the top of her head. Reminding himself that she was beside him. That he loved her. That he couldn't imagine not loving her. She was everything he could want. He glanced at the two girls as they apologised to him. He was confused, he didn't expect that. They had no need to apologise to him. He didn't mean much in comparison to them. He needed to be sorry for all the lies he'd told them. They had done nothing wrong. He shook his head, "Tara, you were a great friend. I couldn't have asked for anything different, you gave me incredible memories. And Sara" Stefan said, shifting his gaze to her, "Had it not been for you getting so angry, I wouldn't have gotten angry, I wouldn't have fought back. Without that, either of you, all of you," He paused, finding the right words, "I would've never realised that I had people who cared. I would've never realised that it wasn't okay for my dad to treat me like he did. I owe you guys my life." Stefan's eyes fell to the ground.

It was a simple truth, he knew if it wasn't for them. For Kate, he wouldn't be there. He would probably be dead. He would've probably died a long time before. He owed, Kate even more so than the rest. However, he didn't like to think about that, and it was a good to be back, and he was happy to see his friends. Just as he fell silent they both said something about France, then something in French, which Stefan didn't understand, having never set foot outside New Zealand, and also unable to locate France on a map. His education lacked a lot. But that was okay, he had this year to get it a little better. To improve it. He then glanced at Kate as she spoke. Had he heard her right, Head Girl. Now that was some news. He looked down and noticed she was smiling up at him. He leaned in and kissed her. He was so proud of her. She deserved it so much. Everything she'd done, everything she'd been through. "Kate, I'm so proud of you!" He said as he broke the kiss and leaned out. He was so proud of her. If it had just been the two of them, he would've wrapped his arms around her, and held her close. Giving the biggest congratulations he could. But, considering they were with others, he just continued smiling and kissed her again. "Look at that, I'm dating the head girl. That's some new right there." Stefan gave a small laugh. Like a low chuckle. This would be the most perfect of years. His stomach rumbled loudly, he gave a small sheepish grin. "Shall we sit and eat, as Tara tells us all about France." He suggested, "I haven't eaten in forever" he added without thinking. Thankfully, they were at the edge of a table so it was easy for them to sit two in front of two. His hand reached down and took Kate's hand, leading her around so they could sit around the table. "And a translation of what you both said would be great. I don't know any french." He said as he grabbed a bit of bread and bit into it. He had one arm around Kate's waist, holding her close to him and was holding the bread with the other hand. He was hungry, but he had to be careful, he was still needing to take it slowly. "Where is France?" He asked curiously, he would apologise from his lack of world knowledge but it was hardly surprising with all things considered. And his friends wouldn't make fun of him. He didn't blame his father for his lack of education. He was okay with everything. He'd come to terms with that. He could learn now. On a good day like that day, he was even okay with the scars that littered his body. Good days for Stefan were incredibly good days.

Sorry it's so late, and of the small god mod.
​

 

[Tara Sitara]

as stefan talked she couldn't help but feel so sorry for him and annoyed at herself that she hadn't been able to do anything more for him. no matter what they said she felt bad. she smiled though it was a sort of sad smile as he said that it was their friendship that had made him realise that he didn't have to be treated as he was treating, she was pretty sure that was the most he had ever said to her about his home live though she had guessed a couple of things, she had hoped she had been wrong though by the way he was talking she hadn't. "oh, stefan you don't owe me anything.the fact that you are back here, safe, and happy is all that i want." she said. wanting again to hug him but he was standing and he was sitting.
when kate said that she had been made head girl she smiled and almost jumped out of her seat in excitement. "Head Girl?!" she repeated part question art statement. "don;t you have to be a prefect first. Congratulations" she said. she couldn't think of anyone who would be better, though she didn't say it out loud as she knew sara would have wanted it, in fact sara would have been who she would have thought would have got it as she had been a prefect.
by now the other three were sitting beside and opposite her. As sara replied to her in french it took her a moment to translate and then reply. "oui, c'est tres fantastique" she said feeling confident she had said yes, it was very fantastic. not necesseraly the best wat to say it but after only a couple of months she was stll rather sketchy. when stefan said that he didnt understand she blushed slightly. "sorry, I said that working in france was food, and i learned a little french, then sara said it was wonderful did you have a good time, then i just said yes it was very fantastic" she said hoping she had gor everything right. the next question was a bit of a surprise, though to be honest she hadnt been taught much of geography either, and that she had been taught at school had been india and sorounding countries. so she decided it would be better for either kate or sara to explain.

 

[Sara Moon]

Sara's whole life had revolved around trying to do the right thing, so much so, that by now, she was sick and tired of always trying so hard. It was just so hard to change, she'd always been this way. What was she supposed to do, if not try to be nice? She couldn't be mean. She didn't think she could stomach it. She looked around the group, feeling her throat catch. She missed Willow. Willow who had been her closest friend, the one she'd talked to about Stefan, the one who'd always made her feel better, the one she'd worried about endlessly when she got ill. She hadn't seen her in so long, and she wished she knew where to find her.
She smiled at Stefan's response; "Tara's right-you've done a lot for us. You made me grow up a bit, stop being so....over-eager." she replied, grinning; "You have no idea how brilliant it is to see you happy Stefan." she looked at him, his arms around Kate. They seemed right, and she loved Stefan, he felt like part of her family.

She grinned as the others congratulated Kate; "We're all so proud of you. It really cheered up the Summer!" she laughed, as Kate told her news. She knew people would think she was jealous, but she truly wasn't. She didn't think she could handle any more responsibility. Plus, it would've been yet another punishment. If she'd gotten it, she'd have been perfect on paper-the ideal candidate for becoming an auror, bar one A, one grade short of her all-time dream. She wouldn't have been able to handle it. She took a seat, at Stefan's request, and laughed as he asked for a translation. "Sorry." she apologised, biting her tongue, she was just very happy.

She frowned at the fact that he hadn't eaten in a while. At least he was in Hogwarts now, and he could eat properly. "So everyone? How're we feeling about Seventh Year?" she asked. She wasn't very happy about it, and wished she could get her grade on Herbology re-done. It was so annoying. One grade short!

 

[Kate Archer]

Kate had always had a positive outlook on life. Why look at the glass as half empty when you can look at it as half full? Life was short and anything can happen. There was no point hiding from the world. No matter how much life knocked you down there was always light at the end of the tunnel. Kate was ready to enjoy life, to not waste a moment of it. She had decided to make a bucket list. a list of things she wanted to do before she died. Some were serious things that she probably wouldn't do till she was older but she did have some crazy ,fun things she would love to do. Just random things she would love to do. Things she could look back on when she was older and wonder why the hell she did something like that but be happy she did it all the same. It was two pages long and she was sure it would possibly get longer. She had crossed some off already but Kate was determined to live her life to the full and try to not regret anything from this year on. Kate smiled when he kissed the top if her head, she couldn't remember the last time she had been so happy on these school grounds. Stefan was everything she had ever wanted, she couldn't picture life without him. He was so special to her. Kate squeezed his hand and smiled at him, proud of him. She was so happy she had persevered with him. So happy that she had been patient and given him time. If she hadn't she would have forever regretted it, knowing how much she loved him and how happy he made her she would have missed out on something huge.

Kate smiled at their reactions. She had always been worried about Sara. Kate had always thought she would get it and she was so glad that Sara seemed happy for her. It was a big relief. Kate looked up at Stefan and her smile widened as he kissed her. How she loved it when he did that. She laughed , happy that they were all proud of her. "I know"She said agreeing with Tara "I really hadn't been expecting it"She said smiling once more. It had been a complete shock, she had started at that piece of paper for quite some time before she had gone down stairs and told her family. Star had also told them she was prefect. There had been great celebrations that night and it had brightened the summer for the Moons. Kate grinned at Stefan's comment, she leaned up and kissed him again, simply because she loved him so much and she was so happy. "Thanks guys, It means a lot"She said as she broke this kiss. It really did, she had been slightly worried about what people would think of er getting head girl. She ad never been a prefect after all. But the more Kate thought about it the more she didn't care about what other people may think. Kate frowned at Stefan. She had hoped he had been eating properly with the money she had gave him. Now that he was in Hogwarts he could have proper meals and hopefully gain some weight. She followed Stefan and sat down beside him. She leaned into him when he put his arm around her waist. Kate smiled, she hadn't done French in a while so she was a bit dodgy on speaking the language but she understood Sara and Tara perfectly. "France is at the other side of the world, it's under and to the left of England."Kate said, it would be easier to show because she didn't know if Stefan knew where England was. She was tempted to just accio and atlas but that could end up with the group being hit by many heavy atlas's. "Accio one atlas"she thought, her wand in her hand under the table. She had been practicing non-verbal magic and she had been improving. While she waited for the book to arrive she listened back to the conversation "Excited"Kate said truthfully, she was looking forward to this year. She was going to make it the best year, so far it was already the best. Soon a book landed in front of her with a thump. "Here we go"She said opening the atlas. It was a fairly old one, she hoped it was from the library and not someone's . She found the world map. She pointed to New Zealand "There is New Zealand"She then pointed to France "And there is France"She said, while she was at it she may as well show him where she, Sara and Tara lived. "Sara and I were born here"She said pointing to Ireland "We live here now"She said pointing to England "And this is where Tara is from"She said pointing to India.

 

[Stefan Archer]

There was no way he could easily tell them the truth about his home life. He'd barely told any of it to the girl he loved. His heart wanted to, but it never could. He couldn't ever bring himself to do such a thing. He didn't want to completely shatter their world that he had been completely alone with nothing and no one. That until Hogwarts, the only thing he knew was being beaten. Was being told that he was a good for nothing piece of sh!t. He remembered his confusion when no one else had the same bruises. He remembered the questions of that boy James, his old friend. The first person he had ever met outside of his father's close circle of friends who were all okay with how horribly he was treated. Who found it funny. Stefan didn't know how to tell them any of that. He couldn't, he would sit there like a fish, gasping at the air, unable to talk, fearing the worst because surely that was what was meant to come. He could feel his mind thinking of those memories, he could feel his heart sinking, but, there was a light squeeze on his hand, Kate. The memories faded and Stefan could once again think without memories creeping up on him. He only caught the end of what Tara said, and what Sara said. That they were happy to see him happy. This was probably the first time he'd been well and truly happy in all his life. Maybe the Christmas with Kate had been the happiest, but that had been almost sixth months before, and before then, he had small happy memories, but they lasted no more than a day, or two. If that. Here he was happy. He could expect to be happy the next day. He felt comfortable around his friends. Things were easier when he was relaxed. They felt easier when he was able to go to bed each night and not be counting down the days till he had to return to his father leaving through more of it. He was pretty much carefree. It was good. it felt nice. Like a load was off his back. Like he could at long last breath. it was a good feeling. Not to mention Kate getting head girl was the icing on the cake of what would be an amazing year. An amazing year of everything good. Nothing bad could happy during this year for him. Well, of course he had to deal with everything that happened to him, but that wouldn't be so hard while he was surrounded by his friends. His perfect girlfriend. Stefan took a large bite out his bit of bread and chewed it thankfully. He could feel his stomachs rumbling in relief. He hadn't noticed the looks of concern he'd gotten. He was a happy muncher. Eating away at the bread with a small smile on his face. He had missed the taste of good fresh bread. It was almost silly, but he had missed good bread in his turbulent years. It was one of the little things.

"I had always thought it would've been Willow to be Head girl." Stefan said, he was very proud of his girlfriend, but he had always just seen Willow as getting head girl, with Sara, Kate and Tara all getting prefects. But, things change, people and time changes things. He knew that. They knew that now too. The translations for him didn't make much sense. He figured that Tara had gone to France, and Sara had asked how it was. Which would've been surely simple words. However, Stefan Archer had never been given the chance to learn another language. He had never really been the chance to learn how to read, write and count. He'd done a lot of it, on his own. Almost starting from scratch when he had to deal with a quill, hugely impractical for someone like him, with eyesight like his. Stefan was glad however, when Kate got a map out. He hadn't expected that, but he knew little about the world. He would've struggled to say where New Zealand really was. They didn't exactly do geography in this school. Stefan put his bread down and wiped away the crumbs on his hands. He let her go through them, before pulling it towards himself. His eyes drifted over, New Zealand, India, which was larger than he pictured, which was different from the U.K and Ireland. Both of which smaller. "I'm really looking forward to it. Something routine and boring, is exactly what I need" He said, without looking up. He still had one arm around Kate as he looked over the map, his eyes drifted over to the country America. Was that where his maybe family was from? He wondered. He didn't want to find the kid right away. But, he was curious. "7th year is going to be amazing." He added, closing over the atlas and looking at the three girls. He smiled his thanks to Kate for getting him the book. "Although I'll be honest, I have no idea what I'm going to do once I graduate.". He wondered if anyone truly knew what they wanted to do when they left school. His entire future had opened up to him now. He now had a future, he had never made plans because he hadn't thought he'd get this far. He had been proven wrong and now he had no idea what he was going to do with his life. Be with Kate was one thing, be happy another, but that was it.
​

 

[Tara Sitara]

Tara silently preyed before she ate some of her porrage whilst the others talked. she gave thanks for her friends, and for stefan. that they were still here after six years happy (for the most part) and healthy. the preyed for her family hoping they were doing well, she had sent most of her pay back to them keeping a small amount for herself for school supplies and a few new clothes. she also thanked all of the plants and animals who had died or been harmed in the making of the food. although she was sure no animals had died as she was vegetarian the porridge was still probably made from milk what would have been tanen from a cow.
she listened to the conversation Stefan said that he thought it would have been willow to be head girl. Tara herself had not know willow that well but she was a nice girl. "where is willow anyway?" she asked wondering if anyone had seen her recently. the next thing she saw was kate pulling a book out from under the table. she was fairly certain that kate hadn't had it before. an atles and she watched as she pointed the places out france, england, ireland, India and new zealand. "I was near paris, and my home is in that area" she said pointing to paris and then the part of india where her home of Joshimath was, in the north very near the border with Tibet (most people she knew refused t see it as china) looking at that map made her realise how big india was compared to everyone else's home. and to think she had only seen her town and the surrounding parks and country as well as the nearby city on occasions.
her thoughts were taken away from this by sara asking a question. about what everyone was looking forward to in seventh year. she shrugged. she said t stefan. I haven't really thought about seventh year being the last. I guess I am looking forward to it, and I'm not she id i am happy or sad that we will be the ones graduating this year" she said. one year left meant one year to get rally good at cooking. "If you don't know what to do once you graduate. and still dont know when i am properly on my feet. you could work with me if I ever get my own cafe" she said. she had decided a year or so previously that that is what she wanted to do. open a cafe in the wizarding world in new zealand specialising in vegetarian and indian foods. "how about you Sara? looking forward to seventh year?" she asked wondering if she was okay. she sure seemed different.

 

[Sara Moon]

Sara grinned as Kate spoke about getting the Head Girl. She was going to be a good Head Girl, Sara knew that and she was glad her sister had gotten it. She just wished she could'e gotten that E, and then everyone would be happy. Part of her really wanted to leave, but she didn't want to hurt the group, and she didn't want them to talk about her after she'd gone. The mention of Willow made her face drop though. The girl who had been her best friend. "Yeah." she agreed with Stefan; "I really miss her, she just sort of disappeared." she answered Tara. When Willow had been ill, Sara had worried endlessly, but she'd never understood what was really wrong with her. She allowed herself to smile as Tara and Kate started pointing out countries. "We lived down the South, around here." she smiled, pointing to Munster, around where Tipperary was.

As the conversation turned to the coming year, Sara felt her spirit droop. She didn't want to talk about the future, about leaving Hogwarts, listening to the others talk about plans, about wanting to move on in the world. Tara with her café, Kate with her music, and Stefan, well Stefan had Kate. She assumed he'd be happy with that. She frowned to herself; "I don't want to leave." she offered, thinking that would be the end of it, but then Tara asked her a question. "No, I'm not. At all." she admitted. She couldn't lie to them, but that didn't mean she had to tell them the whole truth. "The thought of leaving Hogwarts is terrifying." she finished, picking up a piece of bread, and buttering it. Perhaps the fact that she was eating would detract attention from her. She didn't want to have to explain her dilemma. They'd all think she was being stupid. There were plenty of jobs that didn't require Herbology. She could get one with ease, but she didn't want any job. She wanted to be an auror, and she could never do that now.

Out of Character:

Sorry, my imagination is asleep. :/

 

[Kate Archer]

Kate missed Willow. She was worried something had happened to her. She had seemed distant the last few months she had seen her. She had never fully found out what was wrong with her. It was worrying but she was sure something would have been said if anything had happened. Well at least she hoped they would be told something. It would be terrible if something had happened and they never found out. She hoped that wasn't the case, maybe some day they would find out what happened to her, until then they would just have to figure that she moved away or left for some personal reasons. Kate tried not to think about it too much as it always made her worry. Ever since fourth year, Kate did her best to not worry. It had caused so many problems for her and it was just an added stress on her life and not a healthy one.She had to be extra careful as the tumor could come back for all she knew and she did not want a repeat.It was unlikely it would ever return but if she came under too much stress she was putting herself at risk which she didn't plan on doing. That was why she was so glad, her grades didn't play an important part of her career because she didn't need the stress of exams. She could enjoy this year and hopefully during life she wouldn't be put into too many stressful situations.

"Same"Kate said agreeing, she had seen Sara as being Head Girl also. She had never really thought about who would be prefect or head girl or boy when she was younger. Her first few years of Hogwarts had been filled with so many other things that those sort of things had never popped into her mind. Maybe in first year she had thought about it once or twice but she really hadn't know much about Hogwarts to really understand what they meant. "I'm sure she's okay"She said , reassuring herself as well as the people around her. Kate looked as Tara pointed out where she lived. India was so much bigger then any of the rest of their home countries. Kate had always wanted to visit India, it seemed like a pretty cool place to visit. Kate loved traveling. She planned on doing some traveling before she settled down anywhere. She wanted to see the world or explore some of it anyways. "Yup, a place called Tipperary"She said smiling as Sara pointed out Tipperary. She missed home, she hadn't been in Ireland in a while and she missed her friends and just being there. The weather might suck but it was stormy and she loved windy days, especially windy nights when she could hear the wind as she fell asleep. "I'm going to miss coming here, it's been like home for the past seven years"Kate said sadly, it was like leaving Ireland again except she would never be back unless she came here to teach which she doubted she would do."I'm sure you'll find something"She said looking at Stefan and smiling. There was something out there for him, something that would suit him. "That sounds lovely Tara"Kate said smiling, it sounded like a very nice idea, she bet it would be made into a reality too. Kate put away the atlas and left it under the table. She would put it back later. She shuffled back into her former position beside Stefan, his hand around her waist. She poured herself some orange juice "I'd like to do something involving music, I'm not sure what yet though"She said before taking a sip of her orange juice.

Out of Character:

I'm sorry it's so late