closed hiraeth. solo

Mme Eurydice Cecily Montelise Byrne
Byrnewood Manor
Ireland

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Cassian Montelise Byrne
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Scotland

September 8th, 2024

Mon cœur my heart,

How are you? Is the castle drafty? Are you eating enough? I packed your cashmere winter cloak as well — I know you don't like the color, but it will keep you warm in those dreadful Scottish winters. And please tell me you're being treated well. If I hear anything less than glowing, I will owl the Headmaster myself.

The manor is far too quiet without you. Even Jacques has been sulking. I do believe he misses your morning sprints through the east wing. I’ve been keeping your room exactly as you left it (except I did move your trousers from the floor — honestly, Cassian).

Your father is presently in Berlin attending to some nonsense with a potions export... We expect him home by next week. Remember to write to him as well — you know he wishes to hear from you, even if he might not always say it.

Write soon. I want to hear about everything.

All my love,
Maman

P.S. I sent more lemon madeleines and that hair tonic you like — your curls must be stunning this time of year.

Cassian Montelise Byrne
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Scotland

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Mme Eurydice Cecily Montelise Byrne
Byrnewood Manor
Ireland

September 12th, 2024

Dear Maman,

Thank you for your letter — and for the cloak, even if it is the exact shade of a dehydrated bog. I’ve been wearing it anyway. You were right, as usual. It’s ridiculously warm, and that’s what matters when the wind here sounds like it wants to kill you in your sleep.

I am doing alright. There's quite a bit of homework, but I'm managing — I trust you'll pass that on to Father? He's liable to send a Howler if he thinks I've allowed myself to slip anywhere below an Outstanding in every assignment. I've found a quiet spot in the library with an excellent view of the lake. There's a picture of a rather judgmental-looking witch that reminds me of Aunt Cressida. No one minds if I fall asleep there — I'm only kidding, I can picture the face you're making right now.

Give Jacques my regards. I’m touched he noticed my absence, although I imagine he just misses stealing my socks. I trust you’ll be pleased to hear I’ve kept my trousers off the floor. Mostly.

As for Father... I'll write. Eventually. Hope Berlin isn't driving him mad. You will allow me to settle in first before sending me to face judgment, won't you?

Thank you again for the care package. The tonic is doing its job — someone told me I looked like I belonged in a painting the other day. Not sure if that was meant as praise or an insult, but I chose to be flattered. The madeleines are exquisite as always. Please send more as soon as possible, I fear I may have destroyed my little stash far too quickly.

Je t'embrasse hugs and kisses,
Cassian