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usernoneexistent · 1 month

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Once Rowan has recovered and heads into the new year, Juniper and Rowan discuss what their next moves are and who could possibly help them.

Warnings: one use of bad language

A week passed, and Rowan mostly recovered, albeit with the occasional chill. Still, by Madam Pomfrey's standards, she was healthy, which was good enough for Juniper, and the blue tinge on her skin had faded entirely. During that time, Juniper brought chocolate frogs, star charts, books, and the missed assignments to occupy Rowan's mind. Juniper shared her concerns that they might have a traitor in the midst who tried to sabotage her. They immediately ruled out Badeea because she would have no motive and was often seen painting in her own world, whereas Tulip was tricky. Depending on the offer, her alliance could change on a dime, while their other dormmate, Skye, could have framed Juniper. Still, she isn't that sneaky, nor would she ally with a Slytherin to get back at Juniper. She could do that all perfectly on her own.

However, Rowan pointed out that a Prefect could have just as easily snuck in and avoided suspicion. Prefects check in on the younger students all the time. With that, they were bad to square one, but something in her was nagging that it wasn't perfect.

Rowan is slightly tired by Juniper's hovering. She appreciated it, but it can be a lot, too, from Juniper.

Juniper knew how to take care of people, and that's for sure. Looking after her mum had been her job since she was six.

"I just want tae make sure that you're okay."

"I know but I also feel so useless." Rowan lamented.

Juniper sat beside her, resting her head on Rowan's shoulder. "You're not useless at all, Rowan. You saved me; remember that, at least."

Rowan smiled, but she didn't seem entirely convinced. "We'll see."

Winter was approaching faster than Juniper could anticipate. The dreaded Christmas holidays were going to be spent with her father, whom she was not pleased to see. She wrote lots of letters to Rowan and Ben. Basem was away on holiday with his family in France, so she was alone, and to add on everything else, she caught a cold. Juniper wondered if it was the rain or a build-up of stress causing her blocked nose and itchy throat.

She recovered with the help of mint teas and caught up on lost sleep. Juniper returned tired but ready to continue her quest for that cursed vault.

Dumbledore's welcome-back speech again reminded students to stay safe and report any strange activities. There was an unsettling feeling in the air. Did something happen over the break? Did Merula get to the vault while she and Rowan were gone?

"Do you think he's onto tae us?" She whispered, trying hard to hold in that cough.

Rowan leaned, trying to be as inconspicuous as possible, and whispered, "I don't think so, or at the very least, I hope not."

Juniper caught the stares of another intruder in their conversation. Dark eyes matching Juniper's darted away, and red hair swished as Tulip moved her head away from Juniper and Rowan.

Juniper's hunch was correct. Dammit, Tulip is too much of a wildcard to understand her intention. The self-made chaos followed that girl. Juniper could never recall if she hung out with anyone or if Tulip even had friends. The only thing that assured Juniper was that if Tulip pointed fingers at her for the Slytherin attack, she would implicate herself.

In the common room at their corner, Rowan and Juniper just chatted. It was the furthest away from everybody; they had claimed it since the first year. It was nice having their own space. She found her fellow Ravenclaws less hostile, but they ignored Juniper. Those points of redemption really helped her image.

"Do you want to return to the cursed vault?" Juniper inquired, wondering if she might need to continue independently. She didn't like to ask Ben again, nor did Juniper want Penny injured under her care.

"Hmm. I don't think so," Rowan noticed Juniper's face dropping. "Or, at the very least, I don't think I'm ready now."

Juniper rested her face onto her hands. Her face was stiff from overthinking. "I don't think I can ask Ben or Penny to help but even if I took one of them, I don't know if they want to or if that's even enough to fight that door."

Rowan crept up and bared a broad, thin smile. She had something handy up her sleeve.

"Luckily, you have a friend who makes multiple lists on everything. I've spend countless hours alone in my room making lists of the most powerful students at Hogwarts based on various factors."

"What's your recommendation?" Juniper perked up.

"Ben is an obvious answer, but we both know he might not want to get involved again. Merula, we can forget about it. Both were no-brainers, and she felt her heart sink, but Rowan came to the rescue. "There is someone more powerful than you, Ben and Merula, who could maybe help."

"Who?"

"Bill Weasley."

Juniper's eyebrows furrowed in as she searched through her brain. Of course, she knew of the Weasleys, and there was a Charlie Weasley in her year. Maybe a brother or cousin?

"I ken the name but I don't ken the person."

"You've never heard of Bill Weasley?! He's one of the most popular boys in school! He's one of the most powerful wizards in his year!" A creeping pink colour filled her cheeks as she rambled on about him. "He's sure to be a prefect and head boy, and everyone says he's one of the bravest students at Hogwarts!"

"Sounds like you fancy him," Juniper teased her, taking the opportunity there.

"I, ah...I don't..." Rowan mumbled, her face flushed to a bright scarlet. "I think he's cool that's all."

"Aye, okay," the girl said, shaking her head with a cheeky grin in disbelief. "And how will we get him to help with the cursed vaults?"

"Well wouldn't the sound of adventure be appealing for anyone brave ?"

"Maybe a gift too?"

"Oh, you could get him this book by Patricia Rakepick. She's a world-renowned curse-breaker and current head of cursebreakers at Gringotts Bank." Rowan rambled on a little more, but Juniper didn't mind. She's amazed at how much Rowan knew. She is the walking embodiment of the lexicon. "It's in line with Bill's interests."

Juniper teasefully nudged. "I take it you have been watching him for a while."

"You're enjoying this far too much aren't you?"

"You know me too well," Juniper quipped. Even Rowan had to chortle. It felt nice to laugh. It had felt like forever since she had been able to laugh about some normality.

Juniper found out more from Rowan. She explained Bill's training schedule, so Juniper selected a weekend as the professors slowly started to cascade down homework and assignments. It was the freest time she could get. She thought the first year was terrible, but the second year was worse.

If there was any proof, Snape would double their workload. Juniper thought she might have some sanctuary because of Merula's lies. Still, Merula's mood soured more due to the detention given by Professor Snape.

According to Rowan, Bill occupied the training grounds to practise his duelling. Juniper avoided the weekend training in the first year due to the senior students taking claims. She had Ben or alternative dummies to practise with.

A tall and lanky boy was whipping about his wand. His shoulder-length red hair swung with his movements. All spells targeted the dummy perfectly. Juniper was impressed that he could even do it verbal less; she wasn't at that stage yet.

"Um...Bill Weasley?"

Bill Weasley stopped what he was doing and turned his attention towards the second year before him. His eyes patiently waited for her.

"Did you get my owl?"

"Yes, what can I do for you, Juniper Moss?"

Juniper tried not to look surprised; she shouldn't have to be. Her name was well known throughout Hogwarts, but it was still shocking to have someone immediately know her. Juniper felt it robbed the joy of getting to know someone on a fresh slate.

"I can tell you're wondering how I know you, aren't you?" He laughed, flashing a bright white brick wall with a smile. "Your brother was the talk of the Weasleys household when the Daily Prophet printed his search for the cursed vaults. Rumour mill is that you're following in his footsteps."

Jacob's shadow struck again. Juniper didn't want that to bog her down. Instead, she realised the gift. She held out the book in hand.

"I brought you a gift...It's a book about a witch named Patricia Rakepick. Rowan says she's one of the world's most famous curse-breakers." Juniper trailed off. She searched for any reaction on the older Gryffindor's face.

A broad smile formed. "Thanks, Juniper. You didn't have to do that. I want to help anyway I can with the cursed vaults."

"You really sure about that?" Juniper still had to ask despite him already agreeing to help her out. "You could get hurt?"

"I'm aware, but I want to become a curse-breaker," Bill said with determination. "And if I want to be the best curse-breaker, I need to have experience."

"Sounds like a cool aspiration."

"I think you would make a great curse-breaker, too with your experience with the cursed vaults."

"Well, I don't know what I want to do yet after Hogwarts." Juniper shrugged. Her plan after Hogwarts was just to get a good-paying job; besides, she had other matters to worry about. "Also, any advice on improving my spellcasting?" The Ravenclaw queried.

"I would focus on your charms, transfiguration, and DADA classes. Always practise your spells there first before practising outside. Professor Flitwick and Professor McGonagall can help you practise safely." Bill pondered more, his hand resting on his chin. Okay, maybe not DADA. That was bad advice. The Professor is terrible."

"Tell me about it; he's constantly disappearing. It's like he does nae want to teach." She rolled her eyes. She quickly fixed her scarf, pulling it up to her chin to keep warm.

Bill chuckled, "I think we both can agree on that. How does Saturday at noon sound for training?"

"With you?"

"Of course, who else? After all, you came to me for help and this is me helping." Bill proudly said.

"Sounds like a plan, Bill."

***

"So how was meeting Bill like? Learned any cool spells? Was he cool? Did you guys discuss the weather?" Rowan immediately showered Juniper with questions to satisfy her unquenchable thirst for knowledge.

"Aye, he's cool, Rowan." Juniper smiled. "He agreed to help me but first we're going to practise our duelling every Saturday until I'm as good as him."

"I'm so jealous. Did he ask about me?" Rowan looked eager like a cruppy.

"I don't think he knows who you are..." Juniper trailed off. She had mentioned her friend's name in passing, but that's it.

"Oh..."

"But if you want me to, I could mention you more." Juniper threw out the suggestion, eager at the idea of helping Rowan. Rowan looked almost as keen on her idea.

"You can tell Bill Weasley to send me an owl if he ever wants a study partner," Rowan suggested, shrugging awkwardly. "Or just someone to hang out with."

"I'll be sure to tell him that. Maybe you'd could even join one Saturday? That way you meet him in person."

But her friend shook her head shyly in refusal.

"I don't think I'm that ready to meet him." Though the intense stare from Rowan was rare. "But can you promise me that you'll tell him that we can be study partners."

Juniper laughed; there was nothing she wouldn't do for her best and first friend.

"I promise."

The weeks passed quickly as Juniper found herself occupied by quidditch practice after lessons and weekends spent with Bill Weasley. Her skills improved as she honed into this new routine, yet her motivation waned. She would tell herself that she was a Tern. Tenacious. Nevertheless, she felt pressured by all the different responsibilities and the nagging voice in the back of her head about the faux Slytherin attack.

In her Quidditch, Skye gave many valuable pointers in return for Juniper aiding—more like writing—her charms homework. However, Roan Smith often grunted about helping the green players. Juniper and Andre decided to teach each other and gather information from Murphey McNully, who had unlimited information on Quidditch.

"Earth to Juniper," Skye waved.

"Yeah, I'm listening," Juniper pretended that she did.

"I'm seriously doubting that," she raised an eyebrow. "You've been distracted lately, and we need everyone prepared for the match against Slytherin."

That worried her: Slytherin would retaliate because of the accusations. People still whispered about the November incident, which would be all her fault if that did happen.

"Don't worry. I am taking it seriously. Look at the long way I've come." Juniper mustered a feeble smile though the training was evident. Her arms grew dense as once-nonexistent muscles formed. She even managed to lift a stack of heavy textbooks without relying on Charlie or Andre.

"Well, you're less likely to land on your arse, that's for sure," Skye said, which garnered a frown that quickly turned to a chuckle from Juniper.

"I don't think I'm that bad," Juniper said, to which Skye raised an eyebrow.

"Also, I have been doing my own investigation. I'm following several of the Slytherin players, especially Erika Rath to see if I can catch them cheating."

A lump formed in Juniper's throat. Deep down, she knew she had to finally say something or else Skye could do something drastic, which could lead to an actual dispute as if there wasn't enough animosity.

Skye hesitated, "I won't expect you to help but I don't mind having extra help. If you can make sure not to have conflicting schedules."

Juniper quickly turned down the offer. "No, I'm too busy."

"Alright, your loss then," Skye said as she went to put her broom away.

Juniper should be happy that she has gained Skye's trust, but she really needs to put a stop to this. Let the truth come out, but Juniper knew Skye would not react well. Understandably so because Juniper had deceived her, but her lips were ready to slip out everything.

Considering all her options, she turned to the one person who could possibly help. Juniper went to the pitch; she walked up to where Orion was meditating on the field.

"Hey, Orion," Juniper sounded unsure.

"Greetings Juniper, I sense that you are not coming for a social visit." Orion greeted her with an all-knowing yet amiable smile.

"Aye, I need to discuss something important with you," Juniper cracks her knuckles. "I did something, and I'm not sure how to undo it if you know how."

"This is regarding what has been weighing on your mind," Orion responded. Not even the slight breeze could shake him. Juniper nodded as Orion continued, "I have noticed that you have been slightly off balance even after you and Skye have found peace."

"I guess you could say that," Juniper acknowledged. It must have weighed heavily if her captain could see the scales of a guilty conscious tipped heavily to one side. "I am a numpty; I did something incredibly idiotic -and reckless-" she quickly added. Orion's gaze fixated on her as he attentively listened. "I was the one behind the Slytherin attack. But I had never intended to create discord between the houses. I just needed a distraction for another matter, and I thought it was the perfect plan. Well at least I thought so at the moment. I can see now how incredibly stupid it was of me."

Orion paused; Juniper could see him pondering behind his eyes. His calm smile remained. "First, I want to applaud you for taking the initiative to admit a transgression. It is difficult to acknowledge a fault that many others would not admit."

"I'll understand if you want to kick me off the team," the reserved player mumbled.

Orion shook his head. "You possess an untapped potential, but I fear you tend to stand in your own way. Naturally, you will have to make amends for the people who are hurt because of your actions. How you handle it is up to you, and the first step is to redeem yourself."

Juniper, ashamed, had to nod in agreement. She knew Skye would be very hurt, as would the Slytherin quidditch team, who had been unjustly criticised because of her.

"What the hell, Juniper!" She looked down at the source of the loud voice. Skye was standing below them, with steam blowing out of her ears. "That better not be true!"

"I know who I need to apologise and explain to first, and thanks, Orion," Juniper braced herself before going down. The captain nodded sympathetically and let her go. She took a deep breath in before facing Skye, "It's true I was behind the Slytherin attack, but it was not-"

"You lied to me! How many more lies have you told, huh?" Skye accused. "And to use foil a quidditch match on top of that, too! Quidditch may be a joke to you, but it isn't to me! I can't believe this!"

Juniper wasn't sure what to say. Any action she takes will make it worse, but not doing anything will also make it seem to Skye that she doesn't care when she actually does. Maybe she doesn't take Quidditch as seriously as Skye or Andre, but she still finds it necessary and has grown fond of the sport.

"All I can say is I'm sorry. The only thing I wanted you to know was nae to undermine or deceive you initially," Juniper gulped, fighting back her undeserving tears. I lied because I was scared you would react and lose you as a friend."

Her words don't have any effect on Skye's demeanour.

"If you were truly a friend, then you would nae have done it in the first place," her icy gaze turned to Orion, yelling at him for allowing her to stay.

Juniper knew when she overstayed her welcome. She got changed and knew her next steps were to explain to the Slytherin team. She put her face into her hands, trying to not weep over her actions. The consequences would come sooner; maybe it was best that it was now.

She quickly wiped away her tears. She couldn't let anyone see her like this. Nor does she deserve to cry over her own stupidity. Instead, she left before having to continue to witness Skye's wrath.

After hiding out, Juniper went to practise with Bill to ensure she looked okay. Saturdays have become her busiest days. She needed Rowan to remind her of all the assignments and second-year exams they needed to revise.

Her aim was sloppy during practice, which Bill immediately picked up on. She didn't want to repeat the whole story, so he seemingly understood that something was bothering the young witch and tried to direct her focus on something else.

"I hope you're up for proper duelling." His red eyebrows raised in concern, though his tone was light. "I'll go easy, no worries."

"Then you're making it too easy." Juniper dryly chuckled. She had already had too many trips to the hospital wing and probably couldn't handle it anymore.

"You sure? We can continue practising with dummies." Bill suggested, but the girl was adamant that she would see this through.

"No, I can duel with you."

"I know that you're no stranger to duelling after that fight between you and Merula."

The fight from last year, Juniper, was over Merula's hunger for power and quest to stop the Ravenclaw. She knew she took things too far when she used the banishing spell, but an eye for an eye sometimes was necessary.

"I hope I wasn't too bad." Juniper joked.

"Oh, I didn't see it but my little brother, Charlie told me. He's a second year like you."

"Aye, I think I know him. He's pals with Ben Copper." Juniper mentioned. She had heard about Charlie in passing, and they shared a few classes but had yet to interact with one another. "What'd he tell you?"

"That you were a brilliant dueller. Especially the way you knocked down Merula." Though the smile faded. "A little harsh but I get it. You were saving your friend."

"Not my finest hour but I couldn't just let her continue and terrorise Hogwarts."

"Agreed and it seemed to have work for the most part." A crooked grin formed.

"But just made her attitude worse."

"Oh, absolutely," Bill agreed. "Let's get this duel underway then."

Juniper pulled her wand from her pocket. "Ready to go."

"Rictusempra!"

"Alright, on the mark of one." Bill counted down, "Three, two, one."

"Protego!" Bill immediately countered her spell. There goes disarming him with laughter.

"Tarantallegra!" Bill cut off Juniper. Her instinct was to dodge. She knew the dancing feet spell as it was recently covered in charms. However, she had another ace.

"Reducio!" she charmed herself. Juniper almost laughed in surprise at Bill's widening eyes before a surprised grin followed.

Insect Juniper now had the advantage of being hidden out of sight in the tall wet grass. She hadn't expected the droplets to easily drench her. She sprinted, got behind Bill, and caught him off guard. Bill had a watchful eye speculating her position.

"Engergio," Juniper muttered, pointing the wand to herself. Bill swiftly turned on his heels the moment she grew. "Nice try, Expelliarmus!"

The wand flew forcefully out of her hand. Juniper tried to rush to grab her wand but tripped over her shoes and fell face flat into the grass. Her hat fell off.

"Blimey, you alright?"

Juniper groaned in pain. Bill rushed over and helped her.

"Are you okay? Do you need anything?"

"No, but thanks, Bill. It was just a fall. Nothing serious."

Internally, she was relieved because she didn't want to go to the hospital wing. Still, simultaneously, she didn't like to remain seriously hurt.

"I think it's safe to say, you're not a novice." Bill chuckled; his blue eyes were bright. "You could give me a run for my money."

"I don't think I'm that good."

"You give yourself less credit than you actually deserve."

"Really?"

"Yeah really. Wanna have another go?"

"Aye definitely."

They resumed their duel, Juniper trying to produce the less powerful spells, which made them more refined and focused. It helped to distract her and clear her thoughts. Maybe she could even start using them nonverbally.

They continued dodging, ducking, and casting until they collapsed on the frosty grounds—so much for not overdoing it.

"I'd say we've did some great progress."

"Yeah, I would say so too."

The sound of the heavy breathing was somewhat amusing. Bill couldn't help but laugh at their hopeless state.

"We're going to break into the ice vault surely."

"Ice you say?"

"Aye."

"Well I was doing some thinking when you said it and I figured a good spell for you to study is the fire making charm, incendio."

"Who would have thought that a fire spell is great against ice." Juniper said in a joking manner. Bill rolled his eyes playfully at her sarcasm. "But that's good to know. I can study with Rowan, she'll have it somewhere within her six editions of charms textbook."

"Six editions?"

"Oh, for history, she has fifteen editions and a photographic memory." Juniper used the opportunity to praise her friend as she had promised.

"Sounds like someone who would be a great study partner."

"Rowan would nae having a study partner, you could always owl her." Juniper figured it best not to add the other statement about following around.

"Thanks, I might take her up on that."

Juniper felt she was finally getting somewhere. There was a stride in her steps and a noticeable shift in her energy. Her mind was clearer, and she managed better with her school work, Quidditch and duelling practice. Though nothing good lasts forever.

Previous chapter: chapter 16

Next chapter: chapter 18

#the ice knight #hogwarts mystery #lily’s writing #juniper moss #rowan khanna #bill weasley #skye parkin #orion amari #tulip karasu

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