Offer

April 12, 1993, 2:00 AM, Nine Sherringford Square, London

Newt Scamander

Newt sat in his favorite armchair, the crackling fire before him doing little to ward off the chill that had settled deep in his bones. A cup of tea, long since gone cold, rested forgotten in his trembling hands. He knew it was far too late for tea, but sleep had become an elusive luxury these past few days.

The clock on the mantle ticked relentlessly, each second a painful reminder of the distance between him and Tina.

His wife had been on assignment since September, her work taking her far across the Atlantic. Months had passed with only her loving letters to bridge the gap, each one a precious lifeline in her absence. Newt had read and reread them so many times that the parchment had become soft and worn at the edges.

But now, in the wake of the recent attacks, even that tenuous connection had been severed. Tina had disappeared. The silence from the entire Magical United States was deafening, and it filled Newt with a dread he couldn’t begin to articulate.

He took a reflexive sip of his tea, grimacing at its coldness, before setting the cup aside with a sigh. His gaze drifted to the window, where the first hints of dawn were beginning to lighten the sky. Another sleepless night had passed, and with it, another day of uncertainty loomed ahead.

Newt had reached out to every contact he had, called in favors from the highest echelons of the Ministry, but to no avail. It was as if a veil had been drawn over the entire American wizarding community, obscuring it from view.

The lack of news was perhaps the most unsettling aspect of all. In an age where information typically flowed much more freely across magical channels, this silence spoke volumes. Something had gone terribly wrong, and Tina was caught in the middle of it.

Newt found himself wondering, not for the first time, if he should have done something; perhaps joining her on the final raid she was speaking of. The thought of her facing unknown dangers alone was almost unbearable.

However, he knew his wife— capable, fiercely independent— and he respected her too much to have interfered with her work.

He had made his bed. All he could do now was wait, hope, and prepare for whatever might come next.

Suddenly, the fireplace roared to life, green flames leaping high and casting an eerie glow across the room. Newt started, nearly knocking over his forgotten teacup.

A Floo call at this hour? His heart leapt into his throat, hope surging through him despite his best efforts to temper it. Could it be Tina? Or perhaps Queenie or Jacob with news of what had happened?

He leaned forward eagerly, the words “Who’s there?” barely formed on his lips when a familiar face materialized in the flames. The hope in Newt’s chest deflated as quickly as it had risen, replaced by a mixture of disappointment and apprehension.

“Professor Dumbledore?” Newt frowned, his brow furrowing in confusion.

“Greetings, Newt.” Dumbledore’s voice crackled through the fire, his normally twinkling eyes uncharacteristically somber in the bed of coals. “I apologize for the late hour.”

Newt glanced at the clock, confirming what his tired body already knew. It was well past midnight.

“Why are you calling at such a late hour, Professor?” He asked, unable to keep a note of worry from his voice.

Dumbledore’s expression grew even more grave, if that were possible.

“I’m afraid I have news, Newt.” He said softly.

Newt felt his stomach drop, a cold dread settling over him. He leaned closer to the fire, bracing himself for whatever Dumbledore was about to say.

“Is it Tina…?”

Dumbledore’s face flickered in the green flames as he shook his head. “Before I begin, Newt, I must emphasize that what I’m about to tell you may not be absolutely true. I’m relaying information from my informants and colleagues, and in times like these, facts can be… elusive.”

Newt, already on edge, felt his patience wearing thin. He waved his hand dismissively, cutting off Dumbledore’s preamble. “Please, Professor, any news would be helpful at this point. Don’t hold back on my account.”

Dumbledore looked at him for a long moment, then sighed and nodded.

“Very well.” He said, his voice heavy with the weight of his words. “While we were under attack here at Hogwarts and in many parts of Britain, it appears that similar incidents were occurring across the globe.”

Newt’s eyes widened, his mind racing to comprehend the scale of what Dumbledore was describing.

“Across the globe?” He repeated.

“Yes.” Dumbledore confirmed. “Whether these attacks are the work of Grindelwald or others, we cannot yet say with certainty. The situation is… complex, to say the least.”

Newt shook his head, trying to process this unsettling news. But there was one question burning in his mind, one concern that overshadowed all others.

“What about Porpentina?” He asked, his voice cracking slightly. “What about my wife?”

The desperation in Newt’s voice was palpable, his usual composure crumbling in the face of his overwhelming worry for Tina. He leaned closer to the fire, searching Dumbledore’s face for any hint of reassurance, any small comfort in this sea of uncertainty.

Dumbledore’s expression softened, a flicker of sympathy passing across his features. He opened his mouth to respond, the weight of his next words hanging heavily in the air between them.

Dumbledore’s expression grew even more somber, if that were possible. “Newt, do you recall the wave of power that struck during the attack?”

Newt nodded slowly, a shiver running down his spine at the memory.

“Yes.” He said quietly. “I felt it from here. The scale of it… the sheer despair. It was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.”

A thought struck him, and he leaned forward, eyes wide. “Was it… was it linked to the States?”

Dumbledore nodded gravely. “I’m afraid so. We’ve traced its origin to the western United States, and…”

He hesitated, seeming to struggle with his next words.

“Keep going.” Newt urged, his heart pounding in his chest.

Taking a deep breath, Dumbledore continued. “The wave of power came from a potent collection of energy, which was unleashed and aimed at the population centers of wizarding America.”

Newt reeled in his chair, the implications of Dumbledore’s words hitting him like a physical blow.

“Then, Tina…?” He whispered, unable to form a complete sentence as fear clawed at his throat.

Dumbledore’s eyes filled with sympathy.

“I don’t know, Newt. I wish I had better news. What we do know is that the energy most assuredly leveled the Woolworth Building, Arcane Avenue, Ilvermorny…” He continued listing places, but Newt barely heard him, his mind stuck on the locations he recognized— places Tina knew well, places she might have been.

The room seemed to spin around Newt. He gripped the arms of his chair, his knuckles turning white. The Woolworth Building— MACUSA headquarters. Arcane Avenue— the American equivalent of Diagon Alley. Ilvermorny— the school where Tina and Queenie had studied. All gone.

“No.” Newt murmured, shaking his head in disbelief. “No, it can’t be. There must be survivors. Tina is clever, she’s resourceful. She could have…”

He trailed off, meeting Dumbledore’s gaze through the flames. The lack of reassurance in those usually twinkling eyes told Newt more than words ever could. The situation was dire, perhaps even hopeless.

Newt slumped in his chair, the weight of the news crushing down on him. His mind raced with images of Tina, of the vibrant wizarding communities he’d visited in America, all potentially reduced to rubble. And beyond his personal grief, the enormity of the loss— the sheer scale of the devastation— began to sink in.

“What… what do we do now?” Newt asked, his voice barely above a whisper, looking to his old professor for guidance in this unthinkable situation.

Dumbledore’s expression softened slightly.

“Not all is lost, Newt.” He said, his voice taking on a gentler tone. “All of the Ilvermorny students were here for the tournament, thankfully, though some faculty had stayed behind. The President of MACUSA was also spared, as he was attending the final stage of the tournament.”

Newt felt a small flicker of relief, though it did little to ease the ache in his chest.

“That’s… that’s something, at least.” He murmured.

“Indeed.” Dumbledore nodded. “Now, we need to launch efforts to find our people and sort out governance. The President of MACUSA is considering two options: return to the States to fight, or temporarily seek shelter in Great Britain. This would allow them to bolster their forces and… hold funerals for their lost.”

Newt frowned at that last part, the reality of the situation hitting him anew. Yet he nodded, understanding the necessity.

“Yes, all of that needs to be done.” He said quietly. “Perhaps…”

Dumbledore shook his head, his eyes filled with sympathy. “I apologize, Newt. This isn’t anything you should be concerning yourself with right now. It’s my duty to handle these matters.”

“No, no, it’s… it’s fine.” Newt replied, though his voice was hollow. “Thank you for telling me.”

“I’ll inform you immediately if I receive any news about Tina.” Dumbledore promised.

Newt nodded woodenly.

“Thank you, Professor.” He managed to say.

Dumbledore was about to leave, but he lingered. “Do not lose hope, my friend. I have known Porpentina for a long time, and you’ve known her even longer. She is nothing if not resourceful.”

“Yes, of course you’re right, Professor.” Newt said, nodding to himself more out of habit than anything else. “She wouldn’t let something like this get in her way.”

“Too right. I will contact you when I have further news.”

With a final, sympathetic look, Dumbledore’s face disappeared from the flames. The fire died down, leaving Newt alone in the dimly lit room.

The silence that followed was deafening. Newt sat motionless in his chair, staring at the now-empty fireplace. The weight of everything he’d just learned pressed down on him, threatening to crush him entirely. Tina was still missing, possibly… No, he couldn’t bring himself to finish that thought.

She had to be alive.

He really couldn’t believe it. His world had been turned upside down in the span of a single conversation.

He needed to go and begin his search for his wife. Tina would forgive him. She may be annoyed at him for a while, but he could wait no longer—

His thoughts were interrupted by a loud, insistent banging on the door. Newt started, jerked out of his despairing reverie by the harsh sound. His hand moved instinctively to his wand, gripping it tightly as he rose from his chair.

The banging continued, growing more urgent with each passing second. Newt approached the door cautiously, ready for anything. He reached for the magical glass beside the door, a device similar to a Muggle peephole but enchanted to show a clear view of any visitors.

As he peered through, Newt’s eyes widened in shock. On the other side stood a young man, his face battered and bloody, clothes torn and dirty. But what truly caught Newt’s attention was the figure cradled in the man’s arms— a woman by the look of her frame, seemingly unconscious.

“Please.” The young man’s voice came through, muffled but clearly desperate. “We need help. Let us in!”

Without hesitation, Newt flung open the door. The young man stumbled inside, still clutching the woman tightly to his chest. Up close, Newt could see the extent of their injuries— bruises, cuts, and what looked like magical burns marred their skin.

“What happened?” Newt asked urgently, closing and locking the door behind them. “Who are you?”

The young man looked up at Newt, his eyes wild with fear and exhaustion.

“We… we escaped.” He gasped out. “The attack… it was everywhere. We barely made it out.”

Newt’s heart raced. “Calm yourself, friend. The attack ended days ago.”

“No, you don’t understand.” The man said, but was quieted by Newt as he led him further inside.

“Here, lay her down.” Newt said, gesturing to the couch. As the young man gently placed the woman on the cushions, Newt caught sight of a familiar emblem on the torn remnants of her robes— the symbol of MACUSA.

Wait… His breath caught in his throat. These weren’t just any survivors— they were from the MACUSA.

“This is the only place she would let me take her.” The man said as he moved to the hooded woman.

Newt’s eyes darted between the unconscious woman and the young man.

“We need to take her to St. Mungo’s immediately.” He said, already moving towards the fireplace to arrange for emergency transportation.

But the young man shook his head vehemently.

“No.” He said, his voice hoarse but firm. “She refused to be taken anywhere but here. I have to honor her wishes.”

Newt froze, a spark of recognition finally igniting in his mind. He knew this young wizard. “Lewis? Lewis Caboldie?” 

The young man nodded weakly. “Yes, Mr. Scamander. I’m sorry we had to meet again under these circumstances.”

Newt’s mind raced. Lewis Caboldie was the promising young wizard Tina had taken on as a partner. Which meant… His eyes widened as he looked back at the unconscious woman on his couch. He approached her slowly, lowering her hood.

Despite the injuries marring her features, there was no mistaking her.

“Tina.” He whispered, his voice a mixture of relief, joy, and fear.

Newt knelt beside the couch, gently brushing a strand of hair from Tina’s face. “I… We need to get her healed.”

“She said no public appearances.” Lewis said, stopping him from going to the fireplace. “We can’t go to St Mungo’s or anywhere like that.”

Newt stared at him for a moment, moving his arm away. “That does sound like something my wife would say if it were serious…”

The ghost of a smile flickered across his face despite the gravity of the situation.

“Very well, Mr. Caboldie.” Newt said, moving towards the fire. “I will call for someone to come here, instead.”

“Good, good…” Lewis said, standing vigil by Tina as Newt took a handful of Floo powder and threw it into the flames, calling out.

“Albus Dumbledore!”

The fire roared green once more, and Dumbledore’s face appeared, looking harried. “Newt, I’m afraid I don’t have much time—”

“Tina’s here.” Newt interrupted, his words tumbling out in a rush. “She’s injured. We need a Healer yesterday.”

Dumbledore’s expression shifted immediately from exhausted to alert.

“…I’ll be there with a team in fifteen minutes.” He said without hesitation, and the connection closed.

Newt turned back to Lewis and Tina, his heart pounding. Help was on the way, but the next fifteen minutes would feel like an eternity. He moved back to Tina’s side, taking her hand in his.

“What happened, Lewis?” Newt asked, his eyes never leaving Tina’s face. “How did you escape? What’s happening in America?”

Lewis only shook his head. “So many dead…”

Newt found that he did not like the sound of that.

oooo

April 12, 1993, 7:00 AM, Ravenclaw Tower, Hogwarts

Anthony Goldstein

Anthony jerked awake with a gasp, early morning sunlight streaming through the tower windows. The nightmare clung to him like a shroud, its images still vivid behind his eyes despite the cheerful dawn.

In his dream— no, his memory— he had been back in the midst of the attack. Longling wizards had appeared seemingly out of nowhere, their faces twisted with cruel determination as they cast spell after spell at the students and teachers of Hogwarts. Anthony could still hear the cacophony of shouts, the sizzle of curses flying through the air, the screams of the injured.

But then the memory had morphed into something far worse, something that hadn’t actually happened. He had watched, paralyzed with horror, as his classmates fell one by one.

Michael Corner, struck down by a jet of green light. Terry Boot, crushed beneath falling rubble. Padma Patil, her eyes wide with shock as she crumpled to the ground. And all of them had turned to look at him in their final moments, their eyes filled with accusation.

Why didn’t you save us? their gazes seemed to say. Why did you survive when we didn’t?

The sounds of his fellow Ravenclaws getting ready for the day gradually pulled him back to reality.

“It was just a dream.” He whispered to himself, running a hand over his face. “Padma, Michael and the others are in their rooms, sleeping. Calm down, Tony.”

Anthony forced himself to get up, checking himself over as he moved his limbs around. He’d regained full use of his body, he thought. He still felt pain in a few places, but it was nothing he would have paid mind to before the attack. Minor injuries at this point.

As he began his morning routine, his eyes drifted to the wall that separated his room from Adam’s. A fierce longing to talk to his friend surged through him.

Adam would understand the nightmares, the guilt, the fear that lingered even in the safety of Hogwarts. But Anthony stopped himself.

Adam had been different these past few days— withdrawn, troubled. Tony couldn’t blame him. The battle had changed them all, but Adam… Adam had been forced to kill again.

The weight of taking lives, even in self-defense, had visibly settled on his young friend’s shoulders. And then there had been the inquisition that followed— endless questions from Ministry officials, Aurors, and the various school authorities. Everyone wanted to know exactly what had happened, to make Adam relive every terrible moment.

Tony sighed, pulling on his school robes. Adam’s plate was already overflowing. He didn’t need Tony adding his own nightmares to the burden.

A knock on the door interrupted Anthony’s thoughts.

“Come in.” He called, not knowing who to expect.

To his surprise, it was Adam who pushed open the door. He looked tired but managed a small wave as he entered. Despite everything, Tony couldn’t help but smile at the sight of his friend.

“Did you sleep well?” Tony asked, though he could guess the answer from the shadows under Adam’s eyes.

Adam shook his head.

“Not really.” He admitted quietly.

Tony frowned, concern creasing his brow. He opened his mouth to ask what was wrong, but before he could speak, there was a soft pop and a table materialized between them. Tony’s eyes widened as he took in the spread that had appeared.

The table was laden with every breakfast food imaginable. Golden-brown toast was stacked high on delicate china plates, accompanied by little pots of various jams and marmalades— strawberry, raspberry, and what looked like thick-cut orange marmalade.

A silver serving dish held perfectly crispy bacon, the aroma making Tony’s stomach growl audibly. Next to it, sausages glistened invitingly, and a covered plate kept what had to be eggs warm— Tony could see wisps of steam escaping from under the lid.

There were grilled tomatoes sprinkled with herbs, sautéed mushrooms that smelled divine, and a tureen of something that had to be porridge, with honey and brown sugar nearby for sweetening. A large pot of tea sat in the center, accompanied by milk, sugar, and delicate teacups. Juice glasses filled with orange juice caught the morning light, glowing like liquid amber.

Whatever Tony had been about to say evaporated from his mind as the sight and smells overwhelmed his senses. His stomach gave another loud rumble, reminding him that he hadn’t eaten since… well, he couldn’t actually remember when he’d last eaten properly.

“This looks amazing.” Tony said, already reaching for a piece of toast. He glanced at Adam, who had taken a seat and was pouring tea for both of them. “Did you arrange this?”

Adam shrugged, piling eggs on his plate.

“Didn’t really feel like talking to anyone else.” He said quietly. “Asked the elves if they could serve us here instead.”

Tony nodded happily as he took a seat and dug in. He understood all too well his friend’s desire for privacy. After everything that had happened, sometimes just facing the Great Hall felt like too much.

“How’s Su holding up?” Adam asked. “She got hurt pretty bad, too.”

Tony’s face fell, his fork pausing halfway to his mouth. Setting it down slowly, he sighed. “Not great, if I’m being honest.”

“She’s physically fine.” Tony made sure to quickly add at Adam’s alarmed expression. “But, well… after the attack, people have been hard on her. Really hard.”

“Why?” Adam’s voice was quiet as his frown deepened in realization. “Because she’s Chinese?”

Tony nodded, his jaw clenching.

“Yeah. Because Longling was involved in the attack, suddenly everyone from there is suspected. It’s ridiculous.” He stabbed a sausage with perhaps more force than necessary. “Su’s been at Hogwarts with us for years. She was running alongside us during the attack, for Merlin’s sake— helping everyone she could! But some people…”

“Has anyone…” Adam started, his voice tight.

“Mostly just whispers and looks.” Tony said quickly. “A few ‘accidental’ bumps in the hallway. Padma and I have been walking with her between classes when we can.”

He ran a hand through his hair in frustration. “I understand people are scared and angry. We all are. But taking it out on Su? She’s as much a victim in this as anyone.”

The breakfast spread between them suddenly felt less appetizing as the reality of their situation settled back in. The attack hadn’t just changed things on a global scale— it had changed the very fabric of life at Hogwarts. Friends were suddenly viewed with suspicion, and fear was turning quickly to prejudice.

Adam was quiet for a moment, pushing his eggs around his plate thoughtfully. Tony could almost see the wheels turning in his friend’s head, probably already thinking of ways to help Su or address the situation.

Despite everything, Tony felt a surge of gratitude for his friend. Adam might be dealing with his own demons, but he never stopped caring about others.

Adam set down his teacup, a hint of his usual spark returning to his eyes. “I was thinking… maybe we could take a day just for us. You, me and Su.”

Tony raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “What did you have in mind?”

“Well, most of the day.” Adam amended. “I still have to attend a lunch at Mahoutokoro later. Headmistress Sasaki gave me a personal invitation— can’t really ignore that.”

A small smile tugged at Tony’s lips.

“Mahoutokoro? Haven’t had the chance to visit there yet.” His smile faltered slightly. “I imagine they’ll be leaving soon, though. Bit of a bummer.”

But Adam’s face broke into a genuine smile— the first Tony had seen in days. “Actually, I’ll be taking you and Su there.”

Tony nearly choked on his pumpkin juice. “What? Are you sure?”

Adam nodded, his expression determined.

“Absolutely. The invitation included bringing guests, and well…” He shrugged, but Tony could see the thoughtfulness behind the casual gesture. “I think it would be good for Su to be somewhere she’s not… you know.”

Tony felt a warmth spread through his chest that had nothing to do with the tea. This was so typically Adam— finding a way to help their friend while making it seem like no big deal. A visit to Mahoutokoro would not only be an incredible experience, but it would also show Su that not everyone was judging her by her heritage.

“Brilliant.” Tony said, grinning. “Su’s going to be over the moon. Though… I hope the food’s as good as this spread here.”

Adam laughed— an actual, genuine laugh that made him sound his age for once.

“Trust me, I’m sure it’ll be amazing. But first…” He reached for the last piece of bacon. “We’ve got a whole morning to ourselves. Any ideas?”

As they began planning their day, Tony felt some of the weight lift from his shoulders. Yes, the world was still in chaos, and yes, they all carried scars from the attack. But in moments like these, sharing breakfast and making plans with a friend, he could almost believe that things would be okay.

After finishing their breakfast, Adam and Tony made their way out of the dormitory and headed towards the Ravenclaw common room. They found Su Li there, sitting alone by one of the windows, her usual stack of books conspicuously absent.

She looked a little despondent, her shoulders slumped and her gaze distant, but her face brightened considerably when she spotted them.

“Tony! Adam!” She jumped up, wrapping each of them in a quick hug. “How are you both?”

Tony couldn’t help but notice the slight tremor in her voice, the way her eyes darted briefly to the other students in the common room who were pointedly not looking their way.

Adam, with his characteristic directness, quickly moved past the pleasantries. “Su, we’ve got a question for you. How’d you like to come to lunch at Mahoutokoro today? Tony’s already said yes.”

Su’s eyes widened, darting between the two boys.

“Mahoutokoro? Really?” A smile slowly spread across her face, and she nodded eagerly. “Yes, I’d love to!”

As they left the common room together, they decided to spend the morning just relaxing in the castle— a stark contrast to what everyone else seemed to be doing. The corridors were alive with activity, but not the usual kind of bustle.

Everywhere they looked, they saw the stressed and anxious faces of staff members hurrying between meetings, Ministry officials conferring in hushed tones, and students huddled in groups, throwing worried glances over their shoulders.

Aurors occasionally patrolled the hallways, their crimson robes a vivid reminder of the continued state of alert. A group of what looked like foreign dignitaries passed by, their faces grave as they followed Professor McGonagall toward the Headmaster’s office.

Even the portraits seemed on edge, their occupants moving between frames more frequently than usual, whispering and pointing.

“It’s like everyone’s forgotten how to breathe.” Su murmured, unconsciously moving closer to Tony and Adam as they walked.

Tony nodded, noticing how a group of younger students nearly plastered themselves against the wall to let an official-looking wizard pass by. “Can’t really blame them, can we? After what happened…”

“No.” Adam said quietly. “But we can’t live like this forever either.”

They found a quiet spot in the courtyard, away from the nervous energy that seemed to permeate the castle. Tony couldn’t help but feel grateful for this small pocket of normalcy they’d carved out for themselves. Sure, they all bore the scars of the attack— some visible, some not— but here, sitting with his friends and planning their adventure, Tony could almost forget about the nightmare that had woken him this morning.

Almost.

As the morning wore on, they settled into a comfortable routine of games and conversation. Tony had just finished thoroughly trouncing Adam at chess— the boy might be extraordinarily powerful, but Tony had been learning the finer points of strategy from Ron— when Su finally voiced a question that had clearly been on her mind.

“Adam.” She began, her voice careful but curious. “Why haven’t you gone to see Harry yet? I mean, after everything that happened…”

Tony watched as Adam went quiet, his expression unreadable for a moment. Then, surprisingly, a small smile crept onto his face. “Actually, I saw him last night. We had a bit of a nightly stroll.”

Tony and Su laughed, the kind of laugh that comes when someone makes a joke to lighten a serious moment. But their laughter died quickly when they realized Adam wasn’t joining in. He was still smiling, but there was nothing humorous about it.

“Wait.” Tony said, leaning forward, unable to pull the disbelief from his voice. “You’re serious? You actually pulled Harry from the Hospital Wing while he was recovering?”

Su’s eyes were wide. “What possessed you to do such a thing?”

Adam shrugged, as casual as if they were discussing the weather rather than breaking who knew how many school rules. “He needed the fresh air.”

Tony frowned, studying his friend. Sometimes it was easy to forget that Adam was only their age — he carried himself with such assurance and had been through so much. But then he’d do something like this, something that reminded Tony that despite everything, Adam was still very much a child who sometimes acted on impulse.

“The Hospital Wing has windows, you know.” Tony said dryly, trying to keep his tone light despite his concern. “They’re quite good for getting fresh air without having to actually leave the room.”

Adam rolled his eyes, and Tony almost laughed.

“It’s not the same and you know it.” Adam said. “Besides, Harry’s fine. Well, mostly fine. Fine enough for a walk, anyway. Besides, we hopped out of that window.”

“Of course you did.”

Su looked like she was fighting between amusement and exasperation. “And I suppose Madam Pomfrey was thrilled about this nighttime excursion?”

The slight flush that crept up Adam’s neck was answer enough.

Tony sighed, but decided not to push the issue further. After all, what was done was done, and Harry was apparently none the worse for wear. Still, he made a mental note to keep a closer eye on Adam’s “impulses” in the future.

“Well, next time you decide to stage a hospital break, maybe give us a heads up?” Tony suggested, setting up the chess board again. “I’m sure Harry would appreciate having more than one person to lean on if needed.”

Adam’s smile turned a bit sheepish.

“Yeah, alright. Though I’m hoping there won’t be a next time.” He paused, then added quietly. “At least not for hospital breaks.”

Suddenly, Adam pulled out his pocket watch and let out a word that made Su raise her eyebrows.

“We’re going to be late!” Adam exclaimed, jumping to his feet. “Come on, we need to get to the docks!”

They rushed through the castle corridors, their earlier leisurely pace forgotten as they dodged around groups of students and staff. Tony couldn’t help but grin at the normality of it— three students running late, just like any other school day. Except, of course, they were running to catch a ride to another magical school up in the clouds.

As they burst out of the castle and hurried down the sloping lawn toward the Great Lake, Tony spotted a familiar figure waiting at the docks. Hien stood with his usual quiet composure, though his eyebrows rose slightly at the sight of their approaching group.

Tony didn’t miss the way Su’s steps faltered slightly when she saw him, or how her hand automatically went to her hair. He smirked, glancing sideways at his friend. Su’s crush on the older boy had been obvious before, but it seemed to have intensified over the past few days.

Not that Tony could blame her— stories of Hien’s bravery during the attack, fighting alongside Adam, had spread through the school like wildfire.

“Hien!” Adam called out as they approached. “Sorry we’re a bit late. I hope we haven’t kept you waiting long.”

Hien shook his head, his eyes lingering briefly on Su.

“Not at all.” He said, his voice carrying its usual calm. “Though… We? I had not expected you’d bring visitors.”

“Oh!” Adam said. “I hope it’s alright. Headmistress Sasaki said I could bring guests, and well…”

He shrugged.

Tony watched as Su tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, her cheeks slightly pink as she met Hien’s gaze.

“Thank you for having us.” She said, her voice steadier than Tony might have expected given her obvious nervousness.

As they prepared for departure, Tony couldn’t help but think that this trip might turn out to be even more interesting than he’d initially thought. Between Adam’s mysterious dinner invitation, Su’s crush on Hien, and whatever surprises Mahoutokoro might hold, it promised to be quite an afternoon.

As they settled into the boat, Tony felt a peculiar lightness in his stomach as the vessel gently lifted off from the water’s surface. The boat began to ascend through the air, climbing higher and higher toward Mahoutokoro, which floated majestically atop a great swirling cloud. Unlike Hogwarts’ earthbound stone walls, this school drifted in the heavens, its golden roofs catching the sunlight and sending shimmers across the clouds below.

As their boat soared upward, Tony gripped the sides, trying not to look too nervous about their aerial journey. Su, on the other hand, leaned forward eagerly, her earlier shyness forgotten as she watched the world shrink beneath them. Adam seemed perfectly at ease, while Hien stood calmly at the bow, apparently unbothered by their unusual mode of transportation.

When they finally broke through the cloud layer, Mahoutokoro revealed itself in its full splendor. The palace seemed to dance on the clouds, its pagoda-style towers rising in elegant tiers, connected by bridges that appeared to be spun from golden light. As their boat docked at a pier that extended out into the open air, Tony couldn’t help but marvel at how the entire structure remained perfectly balanced.

Hien led them along the pier, which despite appearing to be crafted from mother-of-pearl, felt solid beneath their feet. As they walked toward the main courtyard, Tony noticed that the clouds around them seemed to part obligingly, ensuring clear paths between the various buildings of the school.

Adam grinned at their awestruck expressions. “Quite different from arriving at Hogwarts by carriage, isn’t it?”

Tony could only nod, still taking in the breathtaking sight of a school that literally floated in the sky. As they entered the main courtyard, he wondered what other wonders this magical place might hold.

“This is incredible.” Su breathed, her earlier nervousness forgotten as she took in their surroundings. Tony noticed Hien’s small smile at her wonder.

Adam grinned, clearly pleased by their reactions. “Wait until you see the Grand Hall.”

The Grand Hall of Mahoutokoro was nothing like its Hogwarts counterpart. Instead of one vast room, it was a series of interconnected spaces separated by delicate fusuma panels painted with scenes of magical creatures that moved and shifted. The ceiling appeared to be open to the sky, though Tony could see no evidence of rain despite the clouds that drifted overhead.

Cushions lined low tables that seemed to float just above the tatami-matted floor. As they entered, several students looked up curiously, their robes shimmering from rose-pink to gold as they moved.

“The dinner will be held in a private room.” Hien explained, leading them toward a smaller adjacent chamber. “Headmistress Sasaki thought it would be more… suitable for the occasion.”

Tony caught Adam’s eye, noting his friend’s barely concealed excitement. Whatever this dinner was about, it was clearly more than just a social call. As they approached the private room, Tony couldn’t shake the feeling that they were about to become part of something much bigger than themselves.

As they made their way through Mahoutokoro’s Grand Hall, Tony couldn’t help but notice the reactions of passing students. They bowed respectfully or nodded in acknowledgment, their eyes following Adam and Hien with barely concealed admiration and curiosity. While Tony and Su received polite glances, it was clear who commanded the real attention.

It made sense, Tony reflected.

Word of their battle alongside Headmistress Sasaki had spread far and wide, not to mention their previous exploits in the Tournament itself. He’d heard the whispered stories— how Adam and Hien had faced down multiple enemy wizards, fighting with a skill that belied their years. The evidence of their prowess was there in the way they carried themselves, in the quiet confidence that came from being tested in real combat.

Yet as Tony watched Adam’s back, noting the slight tension in his friend’s shoulders, he felt a twinge of sadness. Adam had never sought this kind of attention or acclaim.

Tony remembered countless conversations in the Hogwarts library, where Adam had excitedly discussed obscure magical theories or debated the finer points of experimental charms.

His eyes would light up at the prospect of learning something new, not at the thought of entering deadly battle, though he had warmed up to friendly competition, at least.

Even now, Tony could see how Adam subtly angled himself away from the admiring glances, how his hand occasionally twitched as if longing for the comfort of a book rather than the weight of expectations that seemed to follow him everywhere. For someone who would have been content to spend his days in quiet study, the universe seemed determined to thrust him into the spotlight.

The private room was intimate, with a low table set for eight people. As they settled onto the cushions, Tony exchanged a glance with Su, both of them wondering just what they were in for. Hien remained as impassive as ever, though there was a glimmer of something— anticipation, perhaps— in his usually calm demeanor.

Though smaller than the grand spaces they’d passed through, the private room still maintained Mahoutokoro’s blend of elegance and magic. Delicate paintings adorned the walls, their subjects moving with subtle grace, while ornate lanterns cast a warm glow over the gathering.

Akio was already seated at the table, his expression brightening slightly at their arrival. Beside him sat an elderly man Tony didn’t recognize, though Adam’s quiet intake of breath suggested familiarity.

The man’s robes were of an older style, elegantly embroidered with patterns that seemed to shift and change when Tony wasn’t looking directly at them. Headmistress Sasaki completed the gathering, breaking off her conversation with the elderly gentleman as they entered.

“Please, be seated.” Sasaki gestured gracefully to the empty cushions.

As they settled themselves— Tony noting how Su managed to position herself near Hien— the table suddenly filled with an array of dishes. Delicate plates of sashimi, steaming bowls of miso soup, perfectly arranged tempura, and dishes Tony couldn’t even name appeared before them.

“Itadakimasu.” Sasaki said softly, echoed by Akio, Hien, and the elderly man. Adam, seeming well-versed in the custom, repeated the phrase, while Tony and Su opted for respectful nods before following suit.

As they began to eat, Tony couldn’t help but observe the dynamics at play. The elderly man seemed to be watching Adam with particular interest, though he was subtle about it. Sasaki maintained her usual air of serene authority, but there was an undercurrent of anticipation in the room that even the excellent food couldn’t quite disguise.

Adam, for his part, was doing an admirable job of appearing casual, though Tony knew his friend well enough to spot the signs of nervousness— the slightly too-careful way he handled his chopsticks, the quick glances he kept shooting at the elderly man when he thought no one was looking.

As bowls of rice were served and the initial edge of hunger was blunted, Tony found himself wondering: what exactly was the purpose of this carefully orchestrated meeting?

The silence that had fallen over the meal was comfortable enough, broken only by the occasional clink of chopsticks against porcelain. Tony focused on his ramen, aware of the sidelong glances his enthusiasm was drawing but too enamored with the dish to be overly concerned. He might not have mastered the art of eating noodles with perfect decorum, but at least he wasn’t spraying food across the table.

The shift in atmosphere was almost palpable when the elderly man straightened, his keen eyes fixing on Adam with sudden intensity.

“How are you faring, young man?” His voice was surprisingly strong, carrying an authority that seemed to fill the small room.

Adam set down his chopsticks carefully before responding. “I’m doing well, Nakamura-san. Though my schedule has been… rather full as of late.”

“Indeed.” Nakamura’s expression darkened slightly. “The Ministry seems more concerned with scrutinizing the heroes of the hour than meting out justice to those who truly deserve it.”

“Grandfather!” Akio’s shocked exclamation cut through the tension, his usual composure slipping for a moment.

Tony glanced between Adam and the old man, noting how Sasaki and Hien remained carefully neutral, though alert. The air in the room had changed, charged now with something that felt uncomfortably like politics. He caught Su’s eye across the table, seeing his own unease reflected there.

Adam’s response was measured, diplomatic. “The Ministry has its procedures, Nakamura-san. I understand their need to be thorough.”

“Thoroughness is one thing.” Old man Nakamura replied, his voice carrying a weight of experience and barely concealed frustration. “Harassment is quite another.”

Tony watched as Adam seemed to weigh his next words carefully. Whatever was really being discussed here, it was clearly about more than just Ministry procedures.

Adam sighed, his shoulders sagging slightly.

“I won’t deny the feeling… Like I’m being hounded.” He admitted, choosing his words with care. “But that’s the way of the world, isn’t it? No one should be above reproach or above the law.”

Nakamura’s response was swift and pointed. “True enough, but it is clear who is in the wrong here. The bureaucratic machine of the British Ministry has proven itself more of an ill than a boon, wouldn’t you agree?”

Tony watched as Adam tilted his head, catching the undertone in the old man’s words. “I sense there’s a question there, Nakamura-san.”

A significant look passed between the elderly wizard and Headmistress Sasaki. With deliberate grace, she set down her chopsticks, the soft click seeming to herald something momentous.

“Mr. Adam Black.” She began, her voice gentle but firm. “We would like to offer you a place here, at Mahoutokoro.”

Tony felt his breath catch. Su’s chopsticks clattered against her bowl.

“Here, your skills would be properly honed.” Sasaki continued, ignoring the shock. “And your actions would not be… Judged so harshly by the populace.”

With a gesture, she indicated a side table that Tony hadn’t paid much attention to before. It was covered in newspapers, and as his eyes scanned the headlines, he had to suppress a wince. He’d read those— some were outright vicious in their portrayal of Adam. One particularly nasty piece dredged up his altercation with Blackthorn from months ago, twisting it to paint Adam as some sort of violent maniac barely contained by school regulations.

Tony felt a surge of anger on his friend’s behalf. He knew the real Adam— the boy who’d rather spend his time researching obscure charms than fighting, who had only ever used his considerable skills when forced to by circumstance.

To see him portrayed as some kind of dangerous element that needed to be controlled…

He glanced at Adam, trying to gauge his reaction. His friend’s face was carefully blank, but Tony could see the tension in his jaw, the slight tremor in his hand as he reached for his tea cup.

The silence stretched as Adam closed his eyes, clearly deep in thought. Tony could almost see the wheels turning in his friend’s head, weighing the offer against all it would mean to accept it. Finally, Adam opened his eyes, his decision evident in his steady gaze.

“The offer is… very tempting, Headmistress Sasaki.” He began carefully. “And I’m truly honored. But I’ve built a life here. I have family now, friends.”

His glance flickered briefly to Tony and Su. “I can’t simply ignore that.”

Sasaki leaned forward slightly.

“The West will never fully accept someone with your… mindset toward combat.” She pressed. “Look at Alastor Moody— a powerful wizard, yet considered a loose cannon by your Ministry. Here, you could reach your full potential without such… limitations.”

“You make good points.” He acknowledged. “But I have a duty to remain here, beyond just my personal bonds.”

A slight smile touched his lips at the end. “Though I would be very interested in visiting your establishment once I’ve learned all Hogwarts has to teach.”

Tony watched as Sasaki studied Adam, noting the flicker of disappointment in her eyes, quickly replaced by what seemed to be grudging respect.

“Your loyalty to your chosen path is admirable.” She said finally. “Not many would stand so firmly by their word when offered an easier route.”

A movement caught Tony’s eye, and he glanced sideways to see Akio, looking distinctly annoyed, fishing several gold coins from his pocket and grudgingly passing them to Hien. The other student accepted them with his usual impassive expression, though Tony thought he detected a hint of satisfaction in the slight upturn of his lips.

Su must have noticed too, because she had to quickly turn her small laugh into a cough, earning her a sharp look from Akio and what might have been the ghost of a wink from Hien.

The tension in the room had shifted, transformed into something more contemplative. As servants appeared to serve them the next portion of the meal, Tony found himself wondering what this decision would mean for all of them.

“Hand me the erm…” 

“Takoyaki— octopus.” Adam suggested and smiled at Tony’s flinch, instead pointing towards a bowl of what appeared to be steaming broth. “Don’t worry, I don’t much like it either. Try this, instead. Beef ramen.”

Tony smiled back and accepted the offering, the conversation between everyone dialing down to more mundane things.

Yes, perhaps things were going to be alright, after all.