Checking In PV P. Stavrou Finished

May 30 — Hogwarts Castle, Highlands, Scotland, Great Britain

Dear Dymphna,

I feel much more relieved now that I've gotten word from you. You were greatly missed. Lots of people asked about you, but I told them not to intrude and that you'd be back when you were ready. A lot has happened here since you were gone, too much to put into words, in fact. I'll fill you in on all of it when you're here. Being secretary has its perks.

I understand what you mean about your parents. Parents always hover, don't they? Mine do too, but I think yours have mine beat. They have good intentions for sheltering us, but nothing would help you heal faster than a return to normalcy, so I'm glad they've listened to you. So, you're attending therapy? I've never been too good at talking out my problems, but I'll be there for you, and I trust you'll do the same. The situation at Hogwarts isn't getting any better, so we'll just have to stick together, friend.

Good to know you'll be finishing out the year. Out of curiosity, will you have some sort of exception for taking your finals? I can't imagine your circumstances making self-study any easier, but I suppose there wouldn't be any other option, would there? If you need some notes or any help catching up on what you missed, I can do that too. I always learn best when I'm teaching someone else, anyway.

When you come back, let's go for a trip to Hogsmeade. How does that sound? I've been wanting to take another peek at the Muggle artefacts store and visit Honeydukes again.

Your friend,

Dear Phaedra,

I can’t wait to hear any news you have. I hate that I’m missing out, especially with lessons. I don’t mind too much about not being able to listen to gossip and rumours. I’m quite glad of it actually. It’s nice not having to worry about what people are saying. Speaking of secretary, are you still enjoying it? As much as I’d like to help out as Prefect or similar, I don’t think I could handle it. They seem like perfect positions for you however.

I let Reid know I’m away as well. I haven’t spoken to anyone else outside of my family but I may get with Serena too. Our friendship started in the owlery afterall. I’m happy to know that we all have each other’s backs. Maybe we shouldn’t attend the balls anymore… or other events for that matter. If it comes down to it, sticking together seems to be for the best. I won’t run off and try something idiotic like that again.

I’d appreciate any notes you can send my way. Especially in Herbology. I always take detailed notes, color coded and all if I can afford the ink. I’ll share mine with you as well. My notes during self study haven’t been as detailed though, but I’m making up for it. My Nana’s been helping me in Transfiguration and Mamaí demonstrated some healing spells. I heard we might learn some of them next year. Are there any spells you’re looking forward to learning to cast?

A Hogsmeade trip would be lovely! I need to stock up on new quills, ink and parchment. You can never have too much stationary. I wouldn’t mind a shopping spree either. It’s been a while since I’ve bought anything that wasn’t for school.

Stay safe,

June 8th — Hogwarts Castle, Highlands, Scotland, Great Britain

Dear Dymphna,

I'm enjoying secretary a lot. It's good experience and Alexx is a wonderful Editor-in-Chief. I'm proud to work under her. It's unfortunate you're too busy for any school positions like those. You would really excel in creative settings, I think, but Quidditch probably takes up a lot of your time anyway. You are returning back to the Quidditch team, right? I'll root for you on whatever decision you make.

In the envelope are copies of some of my Transfiguration notes for you. I hope they help you and fingers crossed they arrived in decent condition. It rained a bit here but Driscoll is a smart owl. That class is scariest with all of its theory, so I went wild with my notes to compensate for it. They give me wonderful grades. I don't use a lot of colored ink like you do, but I include a lot of diagrams. Don't laugh too hard at my drawings.

What do I want to learn next? Healing spells, without a doubt. We haven't had the chance to learn too many of those and we need them desperately. Specifically Anapneo, if I had to choose one. It's a necessity. Lucky you that your mother helps with healing spells. Teach me a few when you come back?

Your "BFF" as they say,

Dear Phaedra,

I wish I could handle it but perhaps in the future, I'll return to the newspaper. I'll be back on the Quidditch team if they'll have me. I may have to go to auditions again, though I don't mind it. As far as creativity goes, I'm awful at papercraft and embroidery. I've tried my hand at both. At least I have decent handwriting. I can't wait to catch up on all I've missed from the newspaper. I can't believe I didn't think of asking you to send a copy my way.

Don't worry about it though because I have good news! I'll be back at Hogwarts, possibly a few days after you get this letter. Your diagrams were fantastic. Transfiguration, while difficult at times, is one of my favorite classes and your diagrams just made it even more enjoyable. We should study together more often! I'd have to ask Reid or it could be just the two of us. Either way, I could take some pointers from you.

I'll teach you anything that I feel comfortable with casting - though I don't think the professors would agree it's a good idea. We'll have to do it secretly and with the current state of the school, I doubt we'll be able to find anywhere to be alone. Everyone always seems to be on high alert, students included. That's what constant fires and giants will do to you.

See you soon!
Your BFF,