Expanding Horizons
With Quidditch season in full swing, Hogwarts was alive with excitement, but Ez had his focus beyond the game. While he enjoyed Quidditch, he knew that his future wouldn't be defined by it alone.
---
One of Ez's main goals was to deepen his understanding of advanced magic. His time studying the family grimoire had granted him insights into lost magical techniques, ones rarely practiced in the modern age.
Late one evening, he sat in a secluded corner of the library, surrounded by ancient tomes. Across from him, Elena skimmed through a book on Charms, while Adrian leaned back in his chair, arms crossed.
"You're seriously going to make me ask?" Adrian drawled, eyeing the intricate runes Ez had sketched onto parchment.
Ez smirked, flipping a page. "I'm refining an enchantment technique. Nothing complicated."
Elena scoffed. "You don't study 'simple' magic." She leaned in, scanning the book. "What is it?"
Ez ran a finger along the faded ink. "A reinforcement charm. Unlike standard ones, this weaves defensive magic into an object, allowing it to absorb impact rather than break."
Adrian let out a low whistle. "Sounds useful. Planning to charm your broom? Or maybe your Quidditch gear?"
Ez chuckled. "That'd be too obvious. I was thinking about practical applications—armor, wands, even clothing."
Elena's curiosity deepened. "I didn't know wands could be enchanted."
"They rarely are," Ez admitted. "But if done correctly, it could enhance spellcasting efficiency."
Their discussion stretched into the late hours, exchanging theories and counterpoints. Ez appreciated having friends who could match his intellect, pushing him to think in ways he hadn't considered before.
---
Beyond magic, Ez's name was gaining weight within Hogwarts. No longer just a Quidditch player, he was recognized as a student of influence and potential.
One afternoon, as he walked toward the Great Hall, a group of older students—sixth and seventh-years involved in Hogwarts' informal 'political' scene—approached him.
"Malverne," a Ravenclaw Prefect greeted, adjusting his badge. "A word?"
Ez nodded and followed them to a quieter spot.
"We've been observing you," a seventh-year Hufflepuff said. "You have talent, connections, and influence. People listen to you."
Ez remained silent, waiting for them to continue.
"It's time you consider your position in Hogwarts' leadership."
Ez raised a brow. "Are you suggesting I run for Prefect?"
The Prefect shook his head. "No. Something more. Younger students already look up to you. You're in a unique position to influence the school's dynamics."
Ez crossed his arms. "And by 'influence,' you mean…?"
"A guiding hand," the Prefect clarified. "Hogwarts has always had an informal power structure. We believe you should be part of it."
Ez considered their words. It was tempting. He was already building relationships across houses—having more sway over Hogwarts' social and political landscape could be a strategic advantage.
"I'll think about it," he finally said.
The older students exchanged satisfied looks before departing. Ez felt a shift—this was the beginning of something larger.
---
Later that evening, Ez returned to Ravenclaw Tower to find an owl waiting for him. Recognizing the family seal, he untied the letter and unfolded it.
> Dear Ez,
I hope your studies are progressing well. Your mother and I have been hearing great things about you—your academic achievements, Quidditch performances, and growing presence in Hogwarts.
I won't keep this letter long, but I want to remind you that power is not simply given—it is taken and maintained. Choose your allies carefully, and never forget that knowledge is your greatest weapon.
We will discuss more when you return for the holidays.
—Father
Ez reread the letter, feeling a familiar weight settle in his chest. His father was watching, expecting him to rise further.
He folded the parchment neatly, a new determination flickering in his eyes.
---
The next morning, as Ez walked toward the Great Hall, he noticed a stir among the students. Whispers filled the air, and many were glancing toward the entrance with curiosity.
Standing at the entrance, speaking with Professor McGonagall, was a young witch in blue and silver Beauxbatons robes.
Ez immediately recognized Fleur Delacour.
A faint smirk crossed his lips as he made his way toward her. She was a year older than him, but their previous meeting in France had left an impression.
"Fleur," he greeted, drawing her attention. "Didn't expect to see you here."
She turned, her Veela allure subtly affecting those around her, but Ez, having been exposed to it before, barely reacted. Her gaze lingered on him, a flicker of something unreadable in her blue eyes.
"I am here as part of a student exchange program," Fleur explained, her French accent smooth. "For a short time, I will be studying at Hogwarts."
Ez raised a brow. "You decided to come here, of all places?"
Her lips curved into a smirk. "Why? Are you not happy to see me?"
Ez chuckled. "More surprised than anything. But I won't complain."
Fleur glanced around the Great Hall, eyes scanning the enchanted ceiling. "It is different from Beauxbatons."****"More… rugged."
Ez tilted his head. "You'll get used to it. Hogwarts has its own charm."
She gave him a long look before speaking. "I suppose I will."
Something had changed between them since their last meeting. Fleur, usually composed, seemed slightly intrigued by him. Ez wondered if she had started to feel the bond she had instinctively brushed aside before.
This was going to be an interesting term.
---