💌🏹

╰┈➤ ❝ [𝑆𝐼𝑋𝑇𝐸𝐸𝑁] ❞ೄྀ࿐ ˊˎ-
⁺⤾·˚.⃗.  [ᴀʟʟ ʜᴀʟʟᴏᴡs ᴇᴠᴇ] 𑁍ࠜೄ ･ﾟˊˎ
﹋﹋﹋﹋﹋﹋﹋﹋﹋

Great Hall
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
— Scottish Highlands
( October 31st, 1994. )

𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐆𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐓 𝐇𝐀𝐋𝐋 𝐖𝐀𝐒 𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐒𝐏𝐈𝐑𝐈𝐓 𝐎𝐅 𝐇𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐎𝐖𝐄𝐄𝐍, transformed into a spectacle of eerie beauty. The high ceiling shimmered with enchanted bats flitting back and forth, casting flickering shadows that danced across the tables. Floating pumpkins of all sizes hovered above, each one carved with grinning faces or filled with sweets that would occasionally rain down on the students. Water snakes in delicate glass bowls wound gracefully around each other, their scales gleaming in vibrant shades of orange and green, adding a mystical glow to the dimmed hall.

Every table was filled with plates of pumpkin pasties, cauldrons of candy, bowls of vibrant, colorful sweets, and goblets filled with spiced pumpkin juice. The scent of cinnamon and nutmeg mingled with the faintly crisp autumn air that seemed to linger in the hall, amplifying the festive atmosphere. Students from every house were immersed in conversations and laughter.

The Hallowe'en feast carried on with music and laughter, and every corner of the Great Hall seemed to pulse with anticipation. As students chatted and ate, small whispers of excitement traveled between tables, voices mingling as they shared what they'd heard about the night's upcoming event.

🐦‍⬛

At the Ravenclaw table, Olympia's nerves were finally beginning to settle as she listened to her friends.

Seraphina, Cho, and Elvira were already talking about what they'd wear, each one vying to look the most 'mysterious' or 'enchanting' for the party.

"Maybe I'll charm my hair to glow in the dark," Seraphina mused, a gleam in her eye. "Or add some floating stars around my head. I heard people are really going all out for this."

Elvira grinned. "Oh, I definitely plan to use a few glamour charms. It's Hallowe'en! If there was ever a night to look hauntingly hot, this is it."

Olympia smiled, finally allowing herself to be swept up in the excitement. "Alright, alright," she said, raising her hands in mock defeat. "Looks like I'll have to do something memorable too, then."

🦁

Over at the Gryffindor table, Fred and George were still reveling in the excitement. Their voices carried just loud enough to be overheard by other students.

"So, George," Fred said loudly, a mischievous grin spreading across his face, "how many ghosts do you reckon we'll summon with our surprise?"

George snorted. "Oh, enough to give everyone a good scare, that's for sure. Imagine Peeves, but with a bit of extra help for the night."

Several Gryffindors who overheard moved closer, begging to hear more for what they had in store. Fred and George's reputation for pulling legendary pranks was well-known, and if they had a hand in planning the night's entertainment, there was no telling what might happen.

As the feast began to wind down, Dumbledore rose from his seat at the head table, drawing everyone's attention. His bright eyes sparkled, a small, knowing smile playing on his lips as he looked around at the eager faces of his students.

"A most delightful evening, wouldn't you all agree?" he asked, his voice carrying across the hall. "And I trust you will enjoy the rest of your Hallowe'en festivities with the same enthusiasm." He paused, his gaze twinkling in that familiar, enigmatic way. "Though I would remind you all to exercise a degree of caution, and remember that the forbidden forest is strictly off limits." He reminded, though behind his eyes there was a subtle twinkle. A few giggles and whispers passed through the crowd, but Dumbledore didn't seem particularly stern. In fact, there was a touch of mischief in his smile. As if he knew exactly what the students were planning, but was more so warning them not to let themselves get caught.

And with the end of Dumbledore's speech the students began to pour out of the Great Hall.

The girls chatted excitedly as they made their way back to the Ravenclaw dormitory, the Hallowe'en spirit energizing them as they discussed costume ideas for the night's party. The common room was relatively quiet, with most students still in the Great Hall or on their way back. The four of them hurried to their dormitory, ready to dive into their preparations.

Elvira was the first to start pulling out costume pieces, a mischievous grin on her face. She'd chosen something that was decidedly bold, edgy, and just a little daring—a dark, fitted ensemble that showed off her figure in a way that left little to the imagination. Her top was a sleek, cropped black corset adorned with subtle lace, with an intricate spiderweb design on her shoulder. Paired with a black skirt that hit just above her thigh-high boots, her outfit exuded confidence. She added a dark choker and smoky makeup to complete her look, adding an almost sultry edge to her Hallowe'en transformation.

"Isn't it brilliant? I'm a vampire, I suppose. Don't really care what I am as long as I look good." Elvira snickered, doing a quick spin in front of the mirror. Her friends laughed, thoroughly impressed—and maybe a bit envious of her boldness.

"It's definitely eye-catching," Cho said, grinning as she adjusted the small black ears on her head. Cho's costume was simple but cute—a classic black cat outfit. She wore a sleek black bodysuit that hugged her frame comfortably, with a thin, trailing tail magically pinned to the back that swayed on its own. She raised her wand and added real whiskers to her rosy cheeks. "A classic," she said, doing a little swish with her tail, "you can never go wrong with a classic." She stated, satisfied with her choice.

Seraphina, meanwhile, was going for elegance. She'd chosen to dress as a fairy queen, her gown a deep, midnight blue that sparkled with a hint of silver dust. It flowed beautifully around her, hitting the floor and giving her a majestic, almost otherworldly appearance. She had a delicate pair of gossamer wings attached to her back, and a crown made of tiny silver leaves rested in her hair. And, like she said before, her hair magically glowing in an ethereal way. Her look was both stunning and magnificent, emphasizing her natural grace.

Olympia, meanwhile, was still undecided, rummaging through her clothes and accessories with a slight frown. "I don't know," she muttered, glancing over at Elvira. "I wanted to go as something witty, but I don't have anything that really. . . fits the vibe."

Elvira shot her a playful look. "Oh, I've got an idea for you, don't worry. Something that's both clever and a little daring. You know, just to make things interesting," she said with a wink.

Olympia hesitated, her brows furrowing. "Daring? Elvira, I don't know if—"

"Oh, come on! Live a little, Olympia!" Elvira insisted, rummaging through her own stash of costume pieces until she pulled out a few items. "Here. Trust me, this will look perfect on you. Cedric will love it." She teased.

After some good-natured nudging, Olympia finally agreed. She ended up dressed as a 'spellbound schoolgirl'—a witty nod to their life at Hogwarts with a playful twist. Elvira had fashioned her costume to include a slightly cropped white shirt that left a hint of midriff showing, paired with a short Ravenclaw plaid skirt that had been cut far shorter than allowed, barely leaving anything to the imagination — which was a bit much for Olympia, but Elvira insisted. She added knee-high socks and a pair of heels, finishing it off with a bright red lip. Elvira also added a charm to give her hair loose waves and a little extra shine.

As Olympia looked at herself in the mirror, she flushed a bit but couldn't help grinning. "It's. . . fun," she admitted, glancing at Elvira, who looked smugly triumphant.

"See? I knew you'd love it!" Elvira said, giving her a satisfied nod. "Now you look ready to actually have some fun."

The four girls took a moment to admire each other's costumes, laughing and exchanging compliments. They felt like a perfect mix of styles and personalities—Elvira's edgy allure, Seraphina's stunning elegance, Cho's cute simplicity, and Olympia's clever, slightly revealing twist.

"Well," Seraphina said, adjusting her crown and smiling at the group, "I'd say we're ready for this party."

Cho grinned, her cat ears twitching slightly with her smile. "Absolutely. Let's go make this a Hallowe'en to remember!"

And with that, the four of them left the Ravenclaw dormitory, heading down the winding corridors of the castle with the thrill of the night ahead.

Forbidden Forest
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
— Scottish Highlands
( October 31st, 1994. )

                          𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐆𝐑𝐎𝐔𝐏 𝐁𝐔𝐒𝐓𝐋𝐄𝐃 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐀𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐏𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍, making their way through the chilly night air, cloaks pulled tight against the October breeze as they crossed the Hogwarts grounds toward the edge of the Forbidden Forest. The full moon bathed the grounds in silvery light, casting an eerie glow over the trees and illuminating the faint mist that clung to the ground like a ghostly veil. The faint sounds of laughter and music drifted through the trees, growing louder as they approached.

As they reached a dense thicket of trees where shadows blended together, they found a small group of students lingering near an almost invisible barrier. It was faintly shimmering, like a curtain of enchanted mist that shifted colors under the moonlight, concealing the gathering from any wandering professors. One by one, students approached the barrier and murmured a password to be let through.

"Snape's Bogey," a fifth-year muttered with a grin as he stepped through the shimmering veil, vanishing instantly on the other side.

Olympia raised her eyebrows, glancing back at her friends with a smirk. "Leave it to them to come up with a password like that."

Seraphina chuckled, her wings fluttering slightly as she stepped forward and whispered, "Snape's Bogey." With a flash of silvery light, she passed through the barrier, disappearing from sight. One by one, the others followed, each repeating the password and feeling the tingle of magic as they slipped through.

On the other side, the forest had been transformed into an enchanted Hallowe'en wonderland. The trees were draped in glowing vines, casting soft, spectral light that illuminated the forest floor in hues of green, blue, and purple. Jack-o'-lanterns of every size floated through the air, their faces carved with mischievous grins and eerie expressions, each one radiating a warm orange glow that flickered like candlelight. Some pumpkins even drifted above students' heads, bobbing in time to the haunting music that floated through the forest.

To the right, a small clearing had been set up as a makeshift dance floor. Enchanted instruments floated in the air, playing an eerie yet enchanting melody. A few students were already dancing, their laughter and movements casting long, shifting shadows under the moonlight. The music shifted between hauntingly slow and upbeat, blending seamlessly to create a magical ambiance that wrapped around everyone.

Further in, tables lined with refreshments and sweets were spread across another part of the clearing. There were enchanted cauldrons filled with swirling, glowing liquids in shades of purple, green, and orange—each one labeled with cryptic names like 'Witch's Brew' and 'Goblin Grog.' Goblets were scattered around, filling themselves with drinks that ranged from pumpkin punch to something a little stronger for those willing to take a risk. Plates of sweets and treats overflowed with Hallowe'en-themed confections — black licorice bats, pumpkin pasties, and cauldron cakes sprinkled with tiny candy skulls.

Off to the side, Fred and George had set up a booth for their own amusement, handing out prank items disguised as harmless Hallowe'en treats.

Nearby, ghostly figures drifted in and out of the trees, enchanted by the twins to give partygoers a harmless fright. Peeves was there, too, adding his own chaotic energy, cackling as he floated through the forest throwing fake spiders and dropping prank dungbombs around unsuspecting students.

"Wow," Olympia breathed, taking it all in with wide eyes. "The twins really went all out."

Elvira grinned, adjusting her spiderweb-covered top with a proud nod. "They did. The Forbidden Forest has never looked better."

Cho's cat ears twitched as she turned toward the refreshments table. "I don't know about you, but I need to try that glowing purple drink."

Seraphina laughed, her wings shimmering as she glided toward the dance floor. "I'll join you for a dance after a sip!"

Elvira hurries off to her next conquest for the night, bouncing confidently with every step.

The girls split up, each wandering into the enchanted forest with growing excitement. The night was filled with laughter, music, and the thrill of magic, and the Forbidden Forest, normally a place of mystery and danger, felt alive with festive energy.

Olympia wandered through the glowing forest, enchanted by the magical setup and the laughter echoing around her. She glanced around, looking for familiar faces, when suddenly she spotted two unmistakable figures approaching her. Her brother, Atlas, was striding toward her, his expression comically stern, and dressed, rather poorly, as none other than Professor Snape. He had on a long, sweeping black cloak that was slightly too big for him, paired with a hilariously bad black wig that hung limp around his face. His arms were crossed in an exaggeratedly serious pose, mimicking Snape's infamous glare.

"Ten points from Ravenclaw," Atlas intoned, his voice a poor impression of their Potions professor. He kept his face as straight as he could, but Olympia could see the amusement in his eyes.

Olympia burst out laughing, unable to help herself. "Oh, you look absolutely ridiculous, Atlas!" she said, clutching her sides. "Snape would be horrified if he saw this."

"That's the goal," Atlas replied with a wink. "I'm just hoping he doesn't actually show up."

Beside him was Cassie, who was dressed as a princess, but with a twist. Instead of the usual floor-length gown, she wore a short dress that stopped above her knees, layered with a tight, elegant corset that accentuated her figure. The dress was a stunning red with gold accents, noting to her house colors, and she'd finished it off with shimmering makeup and a delicate tiara in her hair. She looked regal yet daring, a blend of classic princess with a touch of rebellion.

"Look at you two!" Olympia grinned, taking a step back to admire both of their costumes. "I don't know if I should be more impressed or concerned."

Cassie gave a little curtsy, her crown sparkling under the light as she smiled. "Please, I am royalty for the evening," she said, striking a dramatic pose. "Only the best for the Forbidden Forest festivities." She winked, her grin playful. "And what about you, Miss Schoolgirl?"

Olympia laughed, doing a playful twirl in her own costume. "Elvira's idea, of course," she said, rolling her eyes affectionately. "She said it needed a little extra flair."

With the three of them reunited, they strolled through the party, taking in the enchanting atmosphere. They came upon the Weasley Twin's booth, that had a small crowd gathered around, with students laughing and eagerly grabbing mysterious items.

Behind the booth were Fred and George, both dressed in matching costumes that made them look like charming, roguish pirates. They each wore dark, open-collared shirts, slightly tattered and loose, with brown leather vests layered over them, giving off an effortlessly cool look. Each of them had a black bandana tied around their head, with a few gold beads braided into their ginger hair, enhancing the pirate vibe. To top it off, they each wore a sash around their waist and tall leather boots, completing the look with enough flair to make them look both rugged and, somehow, devilishly handsome.

Fred spotted Olympia, Atlas, and Cassie approaching, and a grin spread across his face. "Ahoy, Harrington crew!" he called, leaning over the booth. "Welcome to Weasley's Wizard Wheezes, where every item's a surprise."

George, leaning casually against the booth, gave Atlas an amused once-over, raising a brow at his costume. "Blimey, Snape's looking a bit short tonight, isn't he?"

Atlas played along, crossing his arms and glaring down his nose at George. "One more word out of you, and I'll make you scrub cauldrons for a month," he said in his best Snape impression, which only made the twins laugh.

Fred leaned toward Olympia, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "And who do we have here? A clever witch in disguise, I see," he said, eyeing her playfully.

"I suppose it's something like that," Olympia hummed, giving a sheepish smile. "I had some. . . encouragement to go for something a bit more well—Elvira chose it."

George smirked. "Well, you pull it off brilliantly," he said, leaning back with a wink. "And Cassie here—looking like she might have a whole army of knights after her tonight. Though I hear Oliver Wood might be fighting for your honor hm?"

Cassie gave a little laugh, glancing away in a slight bashfulness. "Perhaps," she said, then leaned over the booth. "So, what surprises do you have for us, oh masterful pirates?"

Fred and George exchanged a look, their mischievous grins widening. Fred reached under the booth and pulled out a small box filled with what looked like candies—only, each one was enchanted to do something unexpected. There were candies that would change your voice to sound like a ghost, others that made your skin glow for a few minutes, and a few that would cause harmless illusions to appear around you, like tiny bats or floating pumpkin lights.

Fred handed a glowing candy to Olympia with a flourish. "Try this one. I promise it won't turn you into a toad or anything."

"Won't make my tongue swell right?" Olympia hesitated, but with the encouragement of her siblings, she popped the candy into her mouth. Within seconds, a soft glow surrounded her, like a gentle, ethereal light, making her look almost like an enchanted forest spirit.

Cassie clapped her hands in delight. "Oh, Olympia, you look magical!"

Atlas took a candy too, one that gave him a deep, booming voice for a few seconds. "Now I can finally pull off a proper Snape," he declared, and the group burst into laughter.

The twins continued to charm everyone who approached the booth, handing out prank items, enchanted candies, and making jokes that had everyone roaring with laughter. The party was just beginning, and with Fred and George around, it was clear that this Hallowe'en night would be one to remember.

"Well?" George asked, grinning, leaning over Olympia so he towered over her frame. "Did we pass the Hallowe'en costume test?" He muttered.

Olympia chuckled, feeling the warmth of their shared laughter and the festive energy surrounding them. "Oh, you passed, alright," she said, meeting his gaze with a smirk. "But don't think I'll let you off the hook if this effect lasts past Hallowe'en."

"Off the hook? Ha, she's finally joking again!" George mused, swinging his arm around Fred's shoulders, big grins dancing along their lips.

Suddenly, Fred and George exchanged knowing grins as they reached beneath their makeshift booth, pulling out three goblets filled with a glimmering, deep amber liquid. The drinks seemed to sparkle with an unnatural, almost magical gleam, shifting between shades of gold and crimson as they held them up.

Fred leaned in, his voice low and conspiratorial, "Now, these aren't your average pumpkin juice. We've given them a little... enhancement. Purely for, er, festive purposes, of course."

George chuckled, giving the goblets a small swirl. "A little Firewhisky mixed with some of our own enchanting charms. Tastes like cinnamon with a bit of a kick — and I guarantee it'll warm you up for the night's festivities." He winked, offering the first goblet to Cassie, then the next to Atlas, and finally, the last to Olympia.

Cassie took hers with a gleeful grin, lifting it up in a mock toast. "To magical mayhem," she declared, giving the twins a nod of appreciation.

Atlas raised his goblet, smirking. "And to not getting caught."

Olympia accepted hers a bit more hesitantly, eyeing the shimmering liquid as she held it up. "You two better not have added anything too wild," she warned, though there was a playful glint in her eyes. "I don't trust you as far as I can throw you."

Fred laughed, raising his own glass, his eyes glinting with mischief. "Just a little Hallowe'en cheer, Harrington. Besides, what's a party without a touch of risk?"

George joined in, lifting his goblet as well. "Cheers to Hallowe'en, the second best night of the year. Second to April fools, obviously." He mused with a grin, noting to he and Fred's birthday. Though even if it wasn't their birthday, it'd still be their favorite.

The Harringtons clinked their goblets with the twins' before taking their first sips. The enchanted Firewhisky slid down smoothly, warming them from the inside out, with a delicious cinnamon aftertaste that lingered on their tongues. Olympia could feel a faint tingling sensation as the drink's magic took hold, filling her with a rush of confidence and warmth.

Cassie laughed, swaying slightly as the charm within the drink began to work. She felt light and carefree, her sparkle-enhanced costume shimmering even more under the enchanted lights. "This is amazing, doesn't have the usual burn," she said, grinning widely. "Leave it to the Weasleys to make a night unforgettable."

Atlas smirked, raising his goblet to Fred. "You know, you two might just be geniuses. Mischievous ones, but geniuses."

Fred grinned, shrugging modestly. "Oh, we do what we can. Just keeping the spirit alive."

Olympia took another sip, the drink's enchantment boosting her confidence and loosening her usual reservations. She felt emboldened, her laughter coming easier, and she met George's gaze with a hint of challenge. "Alright, Weasley, I'll admit this is pretty good. But what else do you have up your sleeve?"

George smirked, leaning in just a bit closer. "Oh, I've got plenty more tricks for later," he whispered, his voice low and teasing, he felt his heart skip as he towered over the blonde girl. "Stick around and you might just get to see them."

The five of them continued sipping their enchanted drinks, feeling the warmth of the Firewhisky mingling with the excitement of the night. The music in the Forbidden Forest pulsed around them, and with every sip, the world felt a bit more magical, a bit more vivid. The enchantment on the drinks gave everything a shimmering glow, making the trees, the pumpkins, and even the stars overhead seem alive with light and energy.

As the night went on, the enchanted Firewhisky did its job of loosening inhibitions and heightening the festive atmosphere. The music pulsed through the Forbidden Forest, an almost hypnotic rhythm that made it impossible not to sway along. Students danced in clusters under the floating jack-o'-lanterns, laughter filling the air as they enjoyed the freedom that only Hallowe'en could bring. The Harrington siblings, along with Fred and George, found themselves at the heart of the revelry.

Cassie, thoroughly enjoying herself, twirled around, her sparkling princess costume catching the light and drawing the attention of a few admiring onlookers. She giggled as she spun, feeling lighter than air, her cheeks flushed from the Firewhisky and the thrill of the night. "Atlas, dance with me!" she demanded, grabbing her brother's arm and dragging him onto the makeshift dance floor.

Atlas, still in his mock-Professor Snape getup, rolled his eyes but couldn't hide his grin. "Oh, if I must," he said dramatically, dropping into character with his best impression of Snape's disdainful glare. "But only because it's Hallowe'en, Miss Harrington." He gave an exaggerated sigh and joined her in a playful waltz, the two goofily danced around like a pair of idiots. Atlas turned so fast that his wig spun off, revealing his blonde hair, he left out a loud dramatic gasp.

Meanwhile, Olympia found herself beside George, who was leaning casually against a tree, watching Cassie and Atlas and the crowd with an amused grin. Olympia took another sip from her goblet, the enchanted Firewhisky's warmth still buzzing pleasantly in her veins. She felt a bit bolder, a bit braver, and her smile came easily as she glanced over at him.

"Enjoying the show?" she asked, nodding toward Fred, who had leapt onto a tree stump and was leading a group of students in some kind of silly chant.

George chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Always. Fred's the life of the party." He glanced at Olympia, his gaze lingering just a second longer than necessary. "But I'd say the company tonight isn't half bad either."

Olympia smirked, feeling her cheeks flush — not entirely from the drink. "I'd have to agree with you there. Though I'd never admit it if you ask me again tomorrow."

"Oh, I'll hold you to that," George said with a grin, raising his goblet in a mock toast. "Here's to Hallowe'en secrets."

Olympia clinked her goblet with his, laughing. "Hallowe'en secrets," she agreed, taking another sip.

The enchanted drinks worked their charm, amplifying the thrill of the night and blurring the lines between reality and the magical atmosphere surrounding them. For a brief moment, as Olympia stood there, sipping her drink beside George and watching her siblings dance and laugh, she felt like the world was just a little bit brighter, a little bit more enchanted.

Like everything would be okay.

Fred eventually leapt down from his tree stump and sauntered over, slightly breathless and grinning widely. "Alright, Harringtons," he said, sweeping his arm in a grand gesture, "now that you've had the pleasure of our finest concoctions, it's time for you to experience the pièce de résistance of the night."

Cassie's eyes lit up, her curiosity piqued. "What else could you possibly have up your sleeve?"

Fred exchanged a mischievous look with George, and George leaned closer to the group, lowering his voice dramatically. "Deep in the Forbidden Forest, we've set up a little. . . spooky surprise. A ghost walk. Only the brave need apply."

Atlas raised an eyebrow, looking intrigued. "A ghost walk, huh? Sounds risky, they aren't easy to control, sure they won't hurt anyone."

"Not a chance," Fred assured him. "They've all agreed to only have some lighthearted scares. Peeves might even make an appearance — if he's in the mood."

Cassie laughed, looking excited. "I'm in! This sounds perfect for Hallowe'en."

Olympia exchanged a glance with George, her nerves mingling with anticipation. "What's the catch?" she asked, eyeing him suspiciously.

George grinned, a mischievous glint in his eye. "No catch, just a little Hallowe'en scare. But only if you're up for it, of course."

Olympia hesitated for a second before nodding, her sense of adventure winning out. "Alright, lead the way."

With that, the group set off deeper into the forest, guided by the faint glow of enchanted lights that flickered along an otherwise invisible path. The music and laughter from the party faded behind them, replaced by the eerie silence of the Forbidden Forest. Shadows loomed large under the moonlight, and an occasional rustle in the underbrush kept everyone on edge.

After a few minutes of walking, they reached a clearing where mist curled up from the ground, swirling around their feet and giving the area a ghostly ambiance. Fred and George led them to the center, where a circle of jack-o'-lanterns glowed with an unnatural blue light, casting eerie shadows across their faces.

"Welcome to the haunted hollow," Fred announced with a dramatic flourish. "Home to some of Hogwarts' lesser-known ghosts. They've been waiting for some new visitors."

As if on cue, a chill swept through the air, and a spectral figure appeared, floating just a few feet above the ground. Its form was hazy, like mist gathered into a human shape, with empty, hollow eyes that seemed to follow them.

Cassie let out a little squeal, clutching Olympia's arm. "Okay, that's actually terrifying," she whispered, her voice a mix of fear and excitement.

Olympia, her pulse quickening, found herself inching closer to George, who was grinning with unmistakable pride at the success of their setup. "You two really went all out," she whispered, impressed.

"Only the best for our favorite guests," George replied softly, his gaze meeting hers with a warmth that cut through the chill in the air.

The ghostly figure raised its hand, beckoning them forward, and Atlas, in full 'Snape"' mode, stepped up, trying to mask his own nervousness. "Not so frightening, are you?" he challenged the specter.

In response, the figure launched forward and shot through Atlas, sending a shiver up his spine that made him jump up and down and wiggle his arms out in disgust. Laughter echoed around the group, the thrill of fear blending with the amusement of the night's enchantment.

Fred and George exchanged knowing smiles, clearly pleased with the effect. "Happy Hallowe'en, Harringtons," Fred said, raising his goblet in a toast.

The night continued with more pranks, ghostly encounters, and a steady flow of enchanted Firewhisky, each sip adding to the night's magic. For Olympia, Cassie, and Atlas, it was a Hallowe'en they'd never forget—a night of laughter, frights, and the unmistakable charm of the Weasley twins' unique brand of mischief.

The group eventually made their way back to the main party, where students continued to dance, laugh, and revel in the Hallowe'en night's freedom. The air was filled with a carefree energy, and the enchanted lights hanging from the trees cast a warm, flickering glow over everyone.

Olympia was enjoying herself, finding comfort in the familiar company of her brother Atlas, Cassie, and Fred — George had snuck off somewhere.

They were deep in conversation with Fred, who was recounting another one of his and George's pranks with a mischievous grin, when Olympia noticed George across the clearing. She glanced up just in time to see him sidling off toward Marianna Oakes, who was leaning against a nearby tree, looking at him with a smirk on her lips.

Marianna's costume was bold, bordering on scandalous — a tight, low-cut dress that left very little to the imagination. She met George's gaze, clearly enjoying the attention she was getting, and let out a flirtatious laugh as he approached. George, swaying slightly from the drinks, leaned in close, bracing himself on the tre above her, murmuring something in her ear that made her giggle even louder.

Olympia's stomach twisted uncomfortably as she watched them. She tried to ignore the pang of jealousy bubbling up inside her, but it was no use. She had always known George to be charming, and maybe a bit of a flirt, but seeing him like this — drunkenly drawn in by someone else, so captivated by Marianna's allure — hit her harder than she expected. She swallowed hard, quickly averting her gaze, hoping no one noticed her reaction.

Fred, however, was quick to pick up on his twin's antics. He nudged Atlas with a smirk, jerking his thumb toward George and Marianna. "Look at him, off with Miss 'Barely a Costume.' Think he's going to remember it in the morning?"

Atlas snorted, chuckling as he watched George and Marianna disappear into the crowd. "Doubt it. Bet he's only interested in one thing tonight, and it's not conversation."

Fred laughed, shaking his head. "If she's got a brain cell left, she'll figure that out soon enough, though I'm not sure she really cares. But hey, maybe George just wants to, er, discuss the merits of her costume design in private."

Atlas rolled his eyes, leaning in conspiratorially. "Yeah, I'm sure he's dying to 'chat' with her about all those, uh. . 'fine details' she put into her outfit." He let out a snicker, clearly finding the whole situation more amusing than anything else.

Olympia clenched her jaw, the sick feeling in her stomach only growing stronger. She forced herself to laugh along with Fred and Atlas's crude jokes, but every word made her insides twist uncomfortably. She didn't want to care about what George did with Marianna — she shouldn't care. It wasn't as though she and George had any kind of claim on each other. But the thought of him sneaking off with Marianna, wrapped up in her. . . admittedly revealing costume, stirred up emotions she wasn't ready to face.

Fred, noticing her silence, nudged her lightly. "Oi, Olympia, you alright? You look like you've seen a ghost."

She forced a small smile, waving him off. "I've seen plenty ghosts tonight. But I'm uh, just, I suppose I must've had a bit too much Firewhisky." She raised her goblet in a half-hearted toast, hoping to deflect any suspicion. "To. . . Hallowe'en chaos, I suppose."

Fred grinned, raising his own goblet. "That's the spirit, Ols. Hallowe'en chaos indeed."

Atlas laughed, raising his goblet as well. "Here's to George's selective taste in company. Let's hope he doesn't regret it by morning."

Olympia joined in, her forced smile wavering slightly as she clinked her goblet with theirs. She took a long sip, hoping the enchanted Firewhisky would dull the ache in her chest and quiet the irrational jealousy swirling in her mind. But no matter how hard she tried to ignore it, the image of George and Marianna together lingered, a painful reminder of the feelings she wished she didn't have.

Fred eyed her as he raised the goblin to his lips. The whole George and Olympia drama had seemingly sufficed when she friend zoned him, but now she didn't seem so sure. Fred felt his stomach churn slightly, he couldn't keep watching Olympia and George hurt one another. He hated it, it hurt George and in so hurt him. And it hurt Olympia which also hurt him. And he feared what may happen if the two weren't just bloody honest with one another about their obvious feelings.

A while later Olympia sat quietly on the edge of the party, her gaze lost in the shifting shadows of the Forbidden Forest, her thoughts spinning. The laughter and chatter of her friends swirled around her, but she felt disconnected from it all, her attention fixated on George and Marianna. The way they had walked off together—It made something sour stir in Olympia's stomach. She had tried to push the feelings away, tried to ignore the tightening in her chest, but it was impossible.

She didn't understand why she was so bothered by it. She didn't have a claim over George. They were friends, that was all. Yet the thought of him with Marianna — laughing, teasing, getting lost in the night with someone else — it felt like a punch to the gut. She sipped her cup, trying to ignore the jealousy that burned under her skin, and forced a deep breath.

The sound of footsteps approaching snapped her from her spiraling thoughts. Olympia looked up, startled, and saw none other than Cedric Diggory walking toward her, looking effortlessly cool in his vampire costume. His dark cloak billowed behind him as he moved through the crowd, his blonde hair slightly tousled and his face lit by the flickering candlelight. There was something about the way he carried himself that always seemed to draw attention, and Olympia couldn't help but notice the contrast between the confident way he approached her and the restless way she felt inside.

"Hey," Cedric greeted with a warm smile as he reached her. "How's it going? Enjoying the party?"

Olympia's heart skipped at the unexpected attention, and she immediately tried to push aside the swirling thoughts in her head. "Oh, yeah, it's great," she replied quickly, though her voice came out slightly strained. She plastered on a smile, not wanting him to sense anything was wrong. "I'm having a blast."

Cedric raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced by her answer. "You sure? You don't look too convinced." He glanced around, then back to her. "Looks like everyone's having a good time, but you seem. . . I dunno, a little distant."

Olympia's smile faltered slightly, but she quickly regained her composure. "No, really, I'm fine," she said, pushing the unease down. "It's just been a long night, that's all."

Cedric studied her for a moment, his eyes softening as if he could tell she was holding something back. But then, he shrugged, a light grin crossing his lips. "Alright, if you say so. But if you ever need someone to talk to or just want a change of pace, I'm around." He gestured to the dancing students, the lighthearted atmosphere around them.

Olympia nodded, appreciating his kindness but not quite sure what to say. She shifted uncomfortably in her seat, still unsure of how to deal with the mess of emotions inside her. "Thanks, Cedric. That's sweet of you."

He leaned against a nearby tree, his arms crossed casually. "No problem. So what's the best part of the party, in your opinion? It's gotta be the food, right? Or maybe the dancing?" His eyes twinkled, and his playful demeanor made Olympia feel at ease, even if only for a moment.

She glanced over to the crowd, the shimmering lights, the music, and the excitement around them. For a brief second, she let herself relax, her mind drifting back to the fun they'd all had earlier in the night. "I'd say the food," she replied with a grin. "You can't go wrong with a bit of chocolate cake and pumpkin pasties."

Cedric chuckled. "True, true. Can't argue with that." He paused for a beat, his expression becoming more sincere. "But hey, seriously, if something's bothering you, I'm happy to just talk. I'm a pretty good listener, I promise."

Olympia felt a wave of warmth spread through her at his genuine concern. He was easy to talk to, even easier to be around. She almost found herself telling him about everything that had been running through her mind — about George and Marianna, about the strange, overwhelming jealousy that had crept up in her chest, about the unsettling feeling she couldn't shake.

But she didn't. She swallowed it down, instead offering him another smile, though this one felt a little more real. "Thanks, Cedric. You're kind to offer. But I'm fine, I promise."

He smiled back, his eyes kind and understanding. "Well, if you change your mind, you know where to find me. Anyway, I'd better go make sure the rest of the party isn't getting out of hand. But enjoy yourself, Olympia. You deserve it."

With that, Cedric gave her one last warm smile and made his way back into the throng of students, leaving Olympia sitting alone with her thoughts once more. This time, though, there was a flicker of warmth in her chest that she hadn't expected. Maybe it was just the comfort of someone caring, or maybe it was Cedric's easygoing nature, but for a brief moment, the weight of her jealousy seemed to lighten.

Then, as Olympia sat there, caught in the spiraling maze of her own thoughts, she suddenly became aware of the increasing noise around her. The laughter and chatter seemed to grow louder, and her attention was drawn toward the entrance to the clearing. Her breath hitched in her chest when she saw George and Marianna walking back toward the party.

George's arm was casually draped around Marianna's shoulders, his posture relaxed and confident. His usual carefree grin was plastered across his face, but it looked different now — more smug, more satisfied. Marianna was laughing, her face flushed in a way Olympia couldn't ignore, her steps a little unsteady as she leaned into George's side.

Olympia's heart skipped a beat, and she felt a knot form in her stomach. She knew exactly what had happened. The way they moved together, the way George kept his arm around her, told a story she didn't need to hear out loud.

George's eyes briefly scanned the crowd, and when they landed on Olympia, his grin faltered for a split second.

The sight stung more than Olympia cared to admit. She forced herself to smile, but it felt stiff, unnatural. The anger, the jealousy, the frustration — everything bubbled up inside her in a rush, but she kept it all hidden behind a carefully constructed mask.

Fred, noticing the exchange, raised an eyebrow and shot Olympia a concerned look, but said nothing. He knew better than to get involved. But he hated this. So instead of opening his mouth, he turned to Atlas, who was too busy laughing at something a Hufflepuff girl said to notice what was going on.

Meanwhile, George and Marianna moved further into the group, George's arm still wrapped around her. Olympia could feel the weight of the situation pressing on her chest, but she remained quiet, her thoughts spinning out of control. Every time she looked at them, she felt the familiar, sickening twist in her stomach.

"Hey, Olympia, you alright?" Cho's voice rang out from behind her, her voice soft with concern as she stepped closer to her friend. She must've noticed Olympia's distracted expression.

Olympia blinked, forcing herself to look away from George and Marianna. "Yeah," she said, trying to sound casual. "I'm fine. Just, a little tired, that's all."

But Cho wasn't convinced. "You sure?"

Olympia offered a half-hearted laugh, shaking her head. "I'm fine. Really."

Meanwhile, George and Marianna had found a spot by the edge of the crowd, talking animatedly, with occasional bursts of laughter between them. George leaned in close to Marianna, his hand still resting on her shoulder.

Olympia couldn't tear her eyes away, though she hated herself for watching. The jealousy she'd tried so hard to suppress suddenly felt suffocating. She had no claim over George, and she knew it. So why did it hurt so much? Why did it feel like a personal betrayal?

Her hands tightened around her drink as she forced herself to look away from them, trying to focus on something — anything — else. But the image of George and Marianna lingered in her mind no matter how hard she tried to push them out.

As Olympia stood quietly by, trying to gather her thoughts, she suddenly noticed Seraphina approaching them. She gave Olympia a small, understanding smile, her eyes glancing briefly over Cho before locking onto Olympia.

"Hey, you okay?" Seraphina asked softly, her voice filled with concern.

Olympia forced a smile, nodding. "Yeah, just a little tired. I think I'm going to head back for the night."

Seraphina raised an eyebrow, clearly noticing Olympia's tone. "I get it," she said, her voice soothing. "It's been a long night already. I think I'll head back too."

"Thanks," Olympia said, feeling a little relieved that someone understood without needing an explanation. Cho, noticing the conversation, gave Olympia a quick glance.

"I'll just go grab a drink," Cho said, with a nod. "You two go ahead."

Cho and Seraphina exchanged a knowing look before Seraphina and Olympia turned toward the exit of the clearing, the sounds of the party growing fainter with each step. The night air was cool and still, offering a quiet contrast to the noise they'd left behind.

The path back to the castle stretched out before them, the shadows of the Forbidden Forest enveloping them as they walked side by side.

Neither of them spoke much as they made their way down the winding path. The silence felt comfortable, as if words weren't needed to fill the space between them. Olympia appreciated the quiet. The evening had been overwhelming enough, and she wasn't sure she could handle any more chatter or excitement.

When they reached the entrance to the common room, Seraphina spoke up, her voice breaking the quiet. "Do you need to talk about anything?" she asked softly.

Olympia shook her head. "Not right now. Just, need to think a little."

Seraphina nodded. "When do you stop thinking Olympia?" She joked softly, but her smile dropped and her tone became serious, "just know I'm here. We all have those nights, right?"

Olympia offered a tired smile, grateful for Seraphina's understanding. "Yeah, thanks."

With that, the two girls made their way inside the common room, and the comforting warmth of the Ravenclaw dormitory enveloped them. Despite the evening's events, Olympia felt a small sense of relief in the stillness, away from the chaos of the party and the tangled mess of emotions swirling in her mind.

The Ravenclaw dormitory was quiet as Olympia and Seraphina made their way to their shared room. The soft murmurs of the common room faded as they ascended the staircase, and when they finally stepped inside, it felt like stepping into a small cocoon of peace. The soft glow of the moonlight filtered through the windows, casting faint shadows across the room, but Olympia couldn't shake the heavy feeling that weighed on her chest.

She barely noticed Seraphina flopping down onto her bed as she made her way to the bathroom, the cool marble sink and mirror offering a brief moment of solitude. The door clicked shut behind her, and Olympia leaned against it for a moment, taking a deep breath. She could hear the faint sounds of Seraphina unpacking and getting ready for bed, but for now, it didn't matter.

She turned on the shower, letting the warm water cascade down, and began to undress slowly, mechanically. Her thoughts were scattered, and her mind felt tired — tired of pretending that everything was fine, tired of hiding how she really felt. She stepped under the hot stream of water, letting it run over her skin as she closed her eyes.

But it didn't take long for the dam to break.

The tears came suddenly, quietly at first, slipping down her cheeks, mixing with the water running over her face. The feelings that she had kept bottled up all night — the confusion, the jealousy, the fear — came rushing to the surface. She felt everything all at once. She felt stupid, she felt angry at herself for caring so much, for letting herself feel this way about someone who didn't even seem to notice.

Why did it bother her so much? She wasn't entitled to his attention. She wasn't his girlfriend, and she certainly had no claim on him. Yet, here she was, crying in the shower over George Weasley. Her sobs grew louder, her shoulders shaking with each breath.

Olympia Harrington felt utterly, hopelessly lost.

Why does it hurt so much? she thought, her mind spiraling. She tried to convince herself that it was nothing, that she was overreacting, but it was impossible to ignore the aching in her chest. It wasn't just jealousy — at least, she didn't think it was. It was something deeper, something more confusing.

She wiped her face against her arm, her breath hitching as she tried to regain some semblance of composure. She was embarrassed by her own vulnerability. She hated how weak this made her feel.

Her thoughts turned to Cedric, his gentle smile, the way he had asked her how she was earlier in the night. He was so kind, so considerate. He had noticed her, and that had made her feel good, for a brief moment. But then, George had come back into the picture, and everything had shifted again.

She felt foolish. Why couldn't she just let go of this? Why couldn't she stop thinking about George Weasley? Was it just the attention he always gave her? Or was it something more?

She had no answers. Only more questions.

With a shaky breath, Olympia turned the shower off and stepped out, wrapping herself in a towel. The soft cotton did little to ease the whirlwind of emotions still swirling inside her, but at least it gave her something to cling to.

She leaned against the bathroom counter, staring at her reflection in the mirror, her eyes red and puffy. She didn't recognize the girl staring back at her.