Closed Not-so-solo picnic pv

Image posted by the member
Date:
mentions:
Reducio
@Stelle Mims
WC: 208




















Ira always preferred to complete her tasks first, saving relaxation and enjoyment for later but after spending hours bent over parchments in her dorm, Ira felt her energy deplete. While true fun was out of reach, she could at least settle for something reminiscent of it. Something that could trick her mind into believing she was enjoying herself while still studying.

That is precisely why, ladies and gentlemen, Ira headed toward the grounds. Making her way to her usual spot, she unfurled a blanket beneath the tree, preparing for her solo picnic. Then she unpacked her bag— a few textbooks, a rough notebook, a color-changing quill and ink for motivation, and a jar of candies. With her back reclined against the tree, Ira crossed her legs, her possessions neatly arranged before her.

For a fleeting moment, Ira allowed herself to gaze around, soaking in the serene atmosphere. After a minute or so, she snapped back to reality. No more time for daydreaming under the sky or feeling the breeze— she had chapters to battle through. Ugh! After tossing a candy into her mouth, Ira picked up her A History of Magic textbook. She blew out a breath, gearing up for the tedious paragraphs she was about to face.




















code by Tracey Bailey

Sta 6| Eva 8| Str 4|Wis 5| Arc 4| Acc 3
Ency
Closed Not-so-solo picnic pv
The fresh garden air caressed Stelle’s face as she strolled along the paths, her golden curls bouncing in rhythm with her lively steps. She had ventured out in search of something exciting, something to break the monotony of the day, and the clear, sunny landscape seemed to promise adventure. That’s when her eyes landed on a figure under a tree, prompting Stelle to tilt her head, intrigued. A solitary picnic with textbooks? She couldn’t help but stop and observe for a moment, fascinated by the tranquility that radiated from the unfamiliar girl. It was as if the world around her moved at a different pace,slower, more balanced. Stelle, always on the move, always seeking the next spark of magic in the ordinary, felt an almost irresistible urge to approach. But she didn’t, not immediately. Instead, she lingered for a few seconds longer, studying how the girl, who seemed about her age, leaned against the tree with a calmness Stelle could only achieve during her most introspective moments.

“How can she be so still and focused?” she wondered, holding a flower she had picked from the path. Her own thoughts always bounced from one thing to the next, like a stone skipping across water. Unable to contain herself any longer, she took a few steps forward, trying not to intrude too abruptly. As she did, her eyes landed on the jar of candies, and she couldn’t help but break into a wide smile. Her attention was briefly drawn to the color-shifting ink and quill, sparking her enthusiasm even further. She let out a small gasp of wonder. Everything about the scene seemed so carefully crafted, as though the girl had created her own little world in that corner of the garden.

History of Magic. That’s what she managed to read from the book. The subject always felt endless to her, full of names and dates that often blurred together in her mind. She imagined herself trying to read a chapter under the tree, only to be distracted every five minutes by the breeze, the birdsong, or the shapes of the clouds. Every detail of the scene seemed to invite her to stay, to be part of that little oasis her classmate had created. Of course, she couldn’t just stand there staring—that would be too strange. But there was something comforting in the way the girl had claimed that space, and Stelle was determined to figure out how someone could find so much peace amidst the routine. Still, she knew perfectly well that invading someone’s personal space was rude;her mother had told her so many times before.

“If you want to approach someone, just greet them kindly before getting closer. That way, they won’t feel invaded,” she remembered her mother’s words. Taking a deep breath, she adjusted her curls with her hands and tucked the flower behind her ear.

—Hello…—. she said, in an oddly calm and timid tone, looking at the girl and hoping her greeting would be warmly received.

@Ira Thornfield

You make me wanna make you fall in love───⊹
Stelle Mims - Huffelpuf
Closed Not-so-solo picnic pv
Image posted by the member
Date:
mentions:
Reducio
@Stelle Mims
WC: 308




















The picnic? Right... not picnicking! And textbook? No one’s first choice for company! Still, a little sacrifice now would mean reaping the O's later. The O’s mattered, deeply so. They were her badge of worth in her family’s eyes. Ira let out an exasperated breath at her family’s expectations before diving into her book with laser-sharp focus.

Time slipped by as Ira pored over the history of the war between the gargoyles and the wixens. The story itself was gripping, but memorizing the countless details of an event that happened eons ago felt more like a punishment than a lesson. Well, whatever! It wasn’t like she could start a campaign to ban history books. Unless she choose to get kicked out some day.

Just as she was about to flip to the next page, a soft, timid hello made her dart her eyes upward. There stood a girl with curly blonde hair, a flower tucked behind her ear which actually suited her. Ira blinked, then glanced to the side, unsure if the greeting was meant for her.

With her brows furrowed slightly, "Hello," Ira answered, her tone more of a question than a greeting. Ira was a bit confused. She recognized the girl from classes and the common room, but they’d never spoken. Maybe... she needed any help? But Ira wasn’t sure what kind of help she could offer a fellow first-year.

Not that it was a fun picnic for anyone to join, but Ira gave the girl a faint smile, clearing space by shifting her textbooks. "Would you like to sit down?" she asked, waiting for the girl to give her some clue as to why she was here. With a slight tilt of her head, Ira added, "It looks good on you," motioning toward the flower in the girl's hair, "—By the way, I am Ira."




















code by Tracey Bailey

Sta 6| Eva 8| Str 4|Wis 5| Arc 4| Acc 3
Ency
Closed Not-so-solo picnic pv
Image posted by the member

She couldn't help but notice Ira's slightly confused expression, a mixture of bewilderment and reserve that, in a way, made the moment even more charming. Stelle was too extroverted to feel intimidated by it. On the contrary, the small pause in Ira's response intrigued her even more. Stelle smiled, a soft gesture so natural to her that it wasn't unusual to see that lovely smile on her face. Her smile was one of those genuine gestures that could disarm even the most reserved attitude. She didn't take Ira's reaction as something distant, but as a small invitation to get a little closer. Upon the offer to sit down, Stelle tilted her head, thoughtfully, before nodding enthusiastically. —Really?—. She said, even though she was already moving towards the cleared space Ira had made for her.

She sat down gracefully, making sure not to invade the other girl's space too much, but close enough to feel like a chat between friends, even if they weren't yet. She smoothed her tunic gently and looked around at Ira. Her ultramarine eyes quickly traveled between the textbooks, the candies, and the tree under which they were sitting. It was a simple and delicate scene, but in Stelle's eyes, everything had a deeper meaning. —This is so peaceful. I don't know how you do it. Aren't you distracted by the clouds, the wind, or… I don't know, everything else?—. She murmured in amazement while her fingers played with the flower behind her ear.

When Ira commented on the flower, Stelle touched it delicately, as if she had just remembered it was there. —Thank you—. She replied with a warm and honest smile. —I found it on the way and thought it was pretty. There are a million more over there, I just grabbed a fallen one—. She commented, gesturing to the side. There was a spark of excitement in her voice, as if she was sharing a small secret with Ira.

Then, when Ira introduced herself, Stelle tilted her head slightly, as if savoring the name before speaking. —Ira… It's a very strong name. I like it. I'm Stelle—. She said, drawing out the last syllable a little as if it were a melody. —And I think I've seen you before, in classes. But we never talked, I thought it would be good to fix that—. She added sincerely. For Stelle, this small encounter was a spark of light in an ordinary day. Ira's calmness, her apparent concentration, attracted her like a magnet. She was like a book with an intriguing cover, perhaps difficult to open at first, but surely containing a fascinating story. Stelle was determined to discover her, just as she had managed to get to know the reserved Saunders with his chubby cheeks.

@Ira Thornfield

You make me wanna make you fall in love───⊹
Stelle Mims - Huffelpuf
Closed Not-so-solo picnic pv
Image posted by the member
Date:
mentions:
Reducio
@Stelle Mims
WC: 281




















Ira was genuinely puzzled about why the girl had come over in the first place. Typically, she wasn't one to entertain company during her study time, her focus was as strong as a brick wall. But then again she didn’t want to sound rude— that wouldn't sit right with her. Perhaps it was her cheery demeanor that made Ira reluctant to be short with the girl.

Ira eyed the girl curiously as she settled down on the blanket and began taking in the surroundings. Ira now, literally and figuratively, scratched her head. Unsure where this conversation was leading, she blinked at her words. What was really going on here? Snapping out of her thoughts, Ira shrugged. "No. Actually, it helps me focus. But, well, I don't always study here. It's just switching locations that keep me from zoning out," she said before waving generally around them.

The way Stelle elongated the last syllable of her name like it was a sweet tune brought an involuntary smile to Ira's face. Truth be told, Ira had never been content with the name she’d been given and this was nice in a way she didn't expect. Ira gave a subtle nod toward the girl, "so, that was what really brought you here?" she asked with a chuckle.

Well, Ira wouldn't exactly call this an ideal moment for introduction not with the to-do list demanding her attention but well... it would be just a quick small talk. Small talk was manageable. Just a few minutes and she could be back to the grind. Ira added swiftly, "I’ve noticed you in classes too. By the way, candies—yay or nay?" As she tapped at her candy Jar.





















code by Tracey Bailey

Sta 6| Eva 8| Str 4|Wis 5| Arc 4| Acc 3
Ency
Closed Not-so-solo picnic pv
Image posted by the member

As Ira spoke, Stelle couldn’t help but notice the slow rhythm of her words, how they seemed carefully assembled before being spoken. She found it fascinating. When Ira mentioned that studying in different places helped her concentrate, Stelle tilted her head, curious. “How can someone focus so easily?” she thought, her own thoughts never leaving her alone, as if she were cursed to live eternally distracted. — Is that what helps you? That must be amazing. I really couldn’t—. Stelle said, her tone slightly less excited than before. But her enthusiasm returned immediately at hearing Ira’s question. She turned toward her with a spark of curiosity in her eyes.

—Oh, no, I didn’t come here just for that—. she replied quickly, as if it were obvious. She paused, her golden curls fluttering as she tucked a strand behind her ear. —Well, maybe a little… It’s just that I saw you from afar, and it looked like you’d created a little world here. Everything so organized, so peaceful. It made me curious. I’m always running around from one thing to another, and I wondered what it might be like to just… stay still—. As she spoke, Stelle played with the flower in her hair, an unconscious gesture that betrayed her nervous energy. Her attention drifted back to the jar of candies, but this time her gaze softened.

—Thank you, they look delicious. Do you always bring candies when you study?e—. she asked with a gentle smile, taking one of the sweets. —If so, I have to say you’re a genius. History of Magic definitely needs something sweet to make it more bearable—. Stelle finally bit into the candy, her eyes lighting up with delight as the flavor burst in her mouth. —Lemon! I love it. You know what? This is so much more fun than I imagined. Thank you for letting me join you, Ira.—. She settled a little more onto the blanket, as if she’d already decided that this shared space was as much hers as Ira’s,but not in an intrusive way. Instead, there was a warmth in her presence that made everything feel more welcoming.

@Ira Thornfield

You make me wanna make you fall in love───⊹
Stelle Mims - Huffelpuf
Closed Not-so-solo picnic pv
Image posted by the member
Date:
mentions:
Reducio
@Stelle Mims
WC: 398




















Ira curtailed a smile at the puzzlement etched on Stelle's face. Indeed, it was the reaction she often noticed when she voiced that to someone. Maybe it was just her mind playing tricks on her. However, Ira never once in her life zeroed in on anything when she was sedentary for long hours. With a shrug, "Well, I'll start to doze off if I stay put in the same spot for quite a while," raising her book, she added, "especially when the history of magic is involved," and she gave the book a little shake. 
 
Chewing on her lips as her head tilted subtly, Ira reflected. Then, refocusing her gaze on Stelle, she added, "I believe you have to experiment with yourself to discover which approach suits you best. I tried out a whole bunch of ways before settling on the one that worked best for me. Uhmm... Someone would need complete silence to focus while another would need the buzz of activity around them." Ira paused to catch her breath and look at Stelle's face. With a soft laugh, she said, "When I was little, my ma would bribe me to study with choco chip cookies. Treats are motivation too, I suppose."
 
Ira raised her eyebrows at Stelle's pause, waiting for her to finish. As she did, Ira blinked blankly before she composed her face into a neutral expression. Ira couldn't believe that was the vibe she was giving off. Believe me, nobody dreams of trading places with Ira. Ira found herself at a loss for words to respond to Stelle when her expression suggested she believed Ira was having a problem-free life. Ira is graced with certain gifts in her life; even so, it wasn’t quite the dream life. Far from it!
 
Ira couldn't help but let out a soft laugh at Stelle as her eyes literally glowed as if the candy just boosted her. But unlike many other charmed candies of hers, this was nothing magical, but Ira was content someone enjoyed her sweets.
 
 In a way, isn't it like a compliment for her taste? "I actually take candies with me just about everywhere." Squinting her eyes just a little, she added, "Plus, they strangely help with my concentration too." With her warmest smile, Ira responded, "And thank you for joining me." To tell the truth, Stelle approaching her wasn’t the least bit irritating... Oddly.




















code by Tracey Bailey

Sta 6| Eva 8| Str 4|Wis 5| Arc 4| Acc 3
Ency
Closed Not-so-solo picnic pv
₊⁺⋆ Date: — | Number of words: 370| Dialogue: #aa5713 ⋆⁺₊
Image posted by the member


Stelle let out a light laugh and leaned forward with an amused expression upon hearing Ira's comment. —Falling asleep studying the History of Magic? I completely understand you. It's like those pages are a sleep spell. I honestly don't know how anyone can enjoy that—. Her words were a mix of joke and truth. She had tried, on several occasions, to pay attention in that class, but the endless names and dates always made her mind wander.

—Trying different methods...sounds interesting—. She continued, crossing her arms on the table. —But to be honest, I don't know if there is even a method that makes me enjoy studying. I've never been good at sitting down and doing just one thing—. She added with a somewhat embarrassed smile, adjusting her curls. When Ira mentioned chocolate chip cookies as an incentive, Stelle laughed again, her eyes shining with a playful sparkle. —Well, maybe that's the secret: food bribes. My grandfather used to do it with lemon tarts, but I think in my case I just got more distracted thinking about eating than anything else—.

As they talked, Stelle began to notice small details about Ira, things that perhaps others would overlook. There was something about the way she shrugged her shoulders and the casual tone of her voice, as if she were trying to restore importance to certain aspects of her life. Stelle couldn't help but wonder what story was hidden behind that calm façade. But it wasn't the time to ask. Sometimes people shared more of themselves when you didn't pressure them. The warmth in Ira's smile made her feel more relaxed. Stelle rested her elbows on the table and held her chin in her hands, looking at Ira with genuine interest. —Don't thank me, I like accompanying people. Sometimes, you need little things like this to make the days more bearable... or boring subjects like the History of Magic—. She joked.

For a moment, Stelle stopped talking and simply enjoyed the ease of the conversation. There was something refreshing about the casual connection that had formed, as if their very different personalities complemented each other in an unexpected way. —So… What's your story?How did you get here?—. She asked casually, looking at the sky, completely relaxed.

@Ira Thornfield

You make me wanna make you fall in love───⊹
Stelle Mims - Huffelpuf
Closed Not-so-solo picnic pv
Image posted by the member
Date:
mentions:
Reducio
@Stelle Mims
WC: 261




















Ira shrugged her shoulders. "Or maybe some find it intriguing. Just not me! I mean, it would be at least a bit better if we just had to simply grasp the story. But all these timelines? "Ugh!" She shook her head wearily and blew out a puff of air. 

A faint smile touched Ira's lips as she looked at Stelle, but she decided against adding any further suggestions to keep from causing the other girl any more unease when she noticed the almost embarrassed smile, although some ideas were at the tip of her tongue. Nonetheless, she hoped that Stelle would soon find the method that works for her. Ira couldn't help but emit a soft and amused laugh at Stelle's anecdote. Ira added, "You know? After some time, my ma's approach became a flop too. I ended up so tempted that I started sneaking them away."

Ira sank back and let out a gentle sigh as the breeze brushed past her as both the girls basked in the silence for a moment. Ira blinked when Stelle all of a sudden asked about her story. Biting her lips, she tilted her head and gazed into the distance as she contemplated the question. 

Settling to share the basic detail, "Well, I’m from a pureblood family. My ma is a herbologist, and my father is a potion master. I was born and raised in England, so I suppose that’s how I ended up here. If that's what you're asking me." Ira shrugged as she answered before raising her eyebrows at Stelle, "What's yours?"




















code by Tracey Bailey

Sta 6| Eva 8| Str 4|Wis 5| Arc 4| Acc 3
Ency
Closed Not-so-solo picnic pv
₊⁺⋆ Date: — | Number of words: 406| Dialogue: #aa5713 ⋆⁺₊
Image posted by the member

Stelle let out a light laugh upon hearing Ira's words. —Well, at least I'm not the only one who thinks timelines are borin—. she said with a smile that showed relief. —Though I don't know if I could have the courage to sneak away. My grandmother always seems to know everything, like she has eyes in the back of her head—. The blonde leaned forward slightly, resting her hands on her lap as she looked at Ira curiously.


Although I found the History of Magic frustrating, I could enjoy these more personal conversations. —Maybe I should try what you did—. she added thoughtfully. —Although maybe instead of sneaking around, I could... I don't know, decorate the edges of my notes with something pretty. Maybe that will motivate me—. her blue eyes sparkled for a moment before she let out another small laugh. —Or probably not. But I have nothing to lose by trying—.

Stelle listened carefully as Ira spoke, noting the calm and thoughtful way in which she shared the details of her story. There was something comforting about Ira's simple sincerity, though Stelle also detected a slight hint of reserve in her words. With a flash of curiosity, she spoke softly. —It must be interesting to grow up in a family where both parents are experts in something as fascinating as Herbology and Potions. Does that mean you know a lot about those subjects before coming here?—.

When Ira returned the question, Stelle smiled softly, picking up a strand of her curly hair that the wind had ruffled. —Well, my story is a little different—. she began, in a tone that suggested a mix of pride and some insecurity. —I'm half-blood... half-veela, actually. My mother is a witch, and my father learned everything about the magical world by marrying her—. Stelle paused, thinking about how to explain something that was sometimes difficult to put into words. —My grandmother was the one who taught me a lot of things about magical traditions, although she also tends to... how shall I say, be a little strict with expectations —. Stelle laughed lightly, with an air of resignation. —I guess I come from a place where the lines between the magical world and the muggle world have always crossed in a not very comfortable way. I didn't always fit perfectly into one or the other. I know she loves me But she's always been…against my parents? Is it complicated—.

@Ira Thornfield

You make me wanna make you fall in love───⊹
Stelle Mims - Huffelpuf