Echidna, always had a handful of desires. The desire of Knowledge to learn and understand, To...
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Flapping Wings of Avarice (Harry Potter/Re:Zero)
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FireWalkWithMe99
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Echidna, always had a handful of desires. The desire of Knowledge to learn and understand, To save and the desire to find more unknown to her, these desires were a ways ahead of her desire to live again though it seemed she would get all these desires met in the most unexpected of ways. A way most pleasant to her curiosities.
Chapter 1: There was a Woman, All by herself
FireWalkWithMe99
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Flapping Wings of Avarice
-The Witch of Greed bled avarice in the wake of her yearning.-
ECHIDNA I
The preservation chamber was equipped with Od detection capabilities bound within the magic circle created for the continued preservation of herself and the graveyard. So she would be able to tell who woke her, whether it be The Dragon himself, Roswaal, Beatrice, or even the far too eager Reid she hoped the kingdom would be sensible enough to send someone other than the Sword Saint it seems the Lugunica's wit did surpass at least that beast. Though who? Even a stranger's Od would be detected at the very least give her an indication it was someone with an unrecognized Od who woke her. Though nothing was indicated at all. What did that mean?
One moment she was being absorbed by Satella, the next Darkness of purple then of black, and all that remained was the thought of butterflies... A favorite insect of hers to the point she dedicated a good amount of time to engraving butterflies in her that which she was most passionate about. So no surprise the creatures followed her in death the memories and fondness of them were no doubt engraved within her Od at this point.
Just as suddenly the world changed to a void of black with butterflies, she was somewhere else. An expansive forest was familiar in manner but nothing was recognizable here it certainly was not the woods of Kremaldy. Beyond its lack of recognizable scenery, it also failed to show her the path forward, she enchanted the forests surrounding the sanctuary to induce misdirection though it did not affect her. Yet a similar sense of misdirection seemed to be present here. Did her magics fail? It wasn't impossible, at the very least she clearly was no longer stuck in the realm of the void that much was clear.
Did she truly die? Is this what awaited her in true death, an unknown forest, if so perhaps she went to too much effort with the copy of her younger soul. Acting as warden to the barriers of her tomb and the sanctuary. Perhaps she was simply resurrected long after her original rest.
Though the Od detection spell was a simple thing... it should've held as long as the preservation did, and given she stood here and her skin held the same sheen and feel it had possibly centuries past. Indicated it did indeed work unless again, she was dead. Though she did not think this was the case. Echidna did not feel the connection of Od Lagna, nor the overbearing envy of Satella. Her witch factor was present though not in full. Implying that a portion of it still lied within her grave.
Echidna was no stranger to things not going to plan. Though this was most unexpected. She predicted the possibility of being resurrected by a random individuals, though she expected she'd at the very least be able to find the person afterwards. If not by them directly revealing themselves at least through her Od Detection. Yet the latter failed and the formed failed to present itself. A curious situation indeed, though it intrigued her much more than worried her. At the very least perhaps she'd get a chance to gain some understanding of this similar but different forest she now traversed through.
As she went on she heard inhuman noises she wasn't surprised by. Some wolf and cat noises here and there were common enough around the sea of trees that surrounded the sanctuary. Though the calls of owls and what sounded like a small herd of horses were not a common thing to hear at all throughout Lagunica, now Kararagi on the other hand given its lack of civilization and funds was another matter. Often resorting to horses as opposed to ground dragons for a time, but she did not recognize this forest as Karagari either.
There was a recollection of a forest that produced a similar effect of misdirection though it had a different look to it, and Hoshin was actively working on inhabiting it. The best course of action was clearly to follow the sounds she heard, either it was Kararagi or even better it was not. The second answer was sure to produce a great slew of further questions than simply how she came to be here. Which was much more intriguing to her sensibilities.
As if the world heard her call for deeper knowledge, Echidna spied parchment floating in the wind, the gale forcing it again a nearby trunk, eyeing it closer she identified it as a flyer of some sort and noticed it had a polished lettering and cut to it, the text refined in a way unlike anything shes seen in other texts. Beyond the few instances she came across from those she knew to be from beyond the Great Waterfall, with that thought she gave the flyer a closer look.
The Daily Prophet - Escape from Azkaban!
The very existence of the paper itself intrigued Echidna, she had a new question enter her mind Was this the parchment used beyond the Waterfall Alec Hoshin alleged Flugel spoke of? It did not seem quite what Hoshin referred to. Having a strange layout than the variation of paper Hoshin spoke of and had less of an order to it than many of the creations she helped Hoshin bring to life in the wilderness. As a writer frankly Echidna was a bit offended by the strange chaotic assortment of paragraphs on the page, some going left to right, some right to left, some sideways going down and up, and a few sentences were flowing across the page like a river. Though it had a more polished look than even things written with her very own book-writing magic. There also was the photo plastered in the center of the page, then upon closing inspection, the photo begin to move. Was this the Evolution of her Magic Mirrors? Was this man responsible for her unceremonious return from the void?
She glared at the man fiercely and spoke her inquiries.
"Who are you, and what do you desire with my return?"
The man's features changed, though, with a longer look, she recognized his movements were not repeating exactly though it was as if he was stuck in some manner of limbo on the page. Only expressing a handful of looks and gestures. Echidna felt the briefest sense of disappointment though a renewed curiosity consumed her. What manner of magic was this… Some combination of soul copying, mixed with writing magic, with a hint of her own magic mirror invention. Her thoughts were filled with the desire to know who managed such a complicated feat. She thought only herself was capable of such capabilities.
She picked up the flyer almost expecting it to not feel like paper, yet to her disappointment it did. Then the words of the flyer began to float across the page above where her fingers gripped it as the image moved again in the same manner as it was curved against the trunk. The words floating across were certainly a beauty to see firsthand, though they seemed to lack a purpose, beyond showcasing the fact they can. It seemed like an unecessairy touch of arrogance. However, the nature of the magic and production that allowed this enchanted flyer to exist as it did...
"A Most curious thought indeed." She said to herself, and the world as she began attempting to decipher the mismash of sentences on the page.
A.N. Welcome to my next attempt to get over writers block for my other stories. This is one I'll definitely be going back to. Curious what people think of the premise. I felt like there was a sever lack of Echidna focused fics in the Re:zero fandom and as far as I know there is not a single crossover story with her in it as a prominent character. Echidna specifically has alot of parallels with the Potterverse. Given her obsession with knowledge I felt she could fit well in this setting. Ahead will be a spoiler for Re;zero beyond the anime.
If anyone is curious this is neither the soul copy of Echidna subaru interacts with in season two nor the artificial spirit. It is actually Echidna, The Witch of Greed in her original body, so she still has the capacity for emotion unlike her soul copy counterpart.
-The Witch of Greed bled avarice in the wake of her yearning.-
ECHIDNA I
The preservation chamber was equipped with Od detection capabilities bound within the magic circle created for the continued preservation of herself and the graveyard. So she would be able to tell who woke her, whether it be The Dragon himself, Roswaal, Beatrice, or even the far too eager Reid she hoped the kingdom would be sensible enough to send someone other than the Sword Saint it seems the Lugunica's wit did surpass at least that beast. Though who? Even a stranger's Od would be detected at the very least give her an indication it was someone with an unrecognized Od who woke her. Though nothing was indicated at all. What did that mean?
One moment she was being absorbed by Satella, the next Darkness of purple then of black, and all that remained was the thought of butterflies... A favorite insect of hers to the point she dedicated a good amount of time to engraving butterflies in her that which she was most passionate about. So no surprise the creatures followed her in death the memories and fondness of them were no doubt engraved within her Od at this point.
Just as suddenly the world changed to a void of black with butterflies, she was somewhere else. An expansive forest was familiar in manner but nothing was recognizable here it certainly was not the woods of Kremaldy. Beyond its lack of recognizable scenery, it also failed to show her the path forward, she enchanted the forests surrounding the sanctuary to induce misdirection though it did not affect her. Yet a similar sense of misdirection seemed to be present here. Did her magics fail? It wasn't impossible, at the very least she clearly was no longer stuck in the realm of the void that much was clear.
Did she truly die? Is this what awaited her in true death, an unknown forest, if so perhaps she went to too much effort with the copy of her younger soul. Acting as warden to the barriers of her tomb and the sanctuary. Perhaps she was simply resurrected long after her original rest.
Though the Od detection spell was a simple thing... it should've held as long as the preservation did, and given she stood here and her skin held the same sheen and feel it had possibly centuries past. Indicated it did indeed work unless again, she was dead. Though she did not think this was the case. Echidna did not feel the connection of Od Lagna, nor the overbearing envy of Satella. Her witch factor was present though not in full. Implying that a portion of it still lied within her grave.
Echidna was no stranger to things not going to plan. Though this was most unexpected. She predicted the possibility of being resurrected by a random individuals, though she expected she'd at the very least be able to find the person afterwards. If not by them directly revealing themselves at least through her Od Detection. Yet the latter failed and the formed failed to present itself. A curious situation indeed, though it intrigued her much more than worried her. At the very least perhaps she'd get a chance to gain some understanding of this similar but different forest she now traversed through.
As she went on she heard inhuman noises she wasn't surprised by. Some wolf and cat noises here and there were common enough around the sea of trees that surrounded the sanctuary. Though the calls of owls and what sounded like a small herd of horses were not a common thing to hear at all throughout Lagunica, now Kararagi on the other hand given its lack of civilization and funds was another matter. Often resorting to horses as opposed to ground dragons for a time, but she did not recognize this forest as Karagari either.
There was a recollection of a forest that produced a similar effect of misdirection though it had a different look to it, and Hoshin was actively working on inhabiting it. The best course of action was clearly to follow the sounds she heard, either it was Kararagi or even better it was not. The second answer was sure to produce a great slew of further questions than simply how she came to be here. Which was much more intriguing to her sensibilities.
As if the world heard her call for deeper knowledge, Echidna spied parchment floating in the wind, the gale forcing it again a nearby trunk, eyeing it closer she identified it as a flyer of some sort and noticed it had a polished lettering and cut to it, the text refined in a way unlike anything shes seen in other texts. Beyond the few instances she came across from those she knew to be from beyond the Great Waterfall, with that thought she gave the flyer a closer look.
The Daily Prophet - Escape from Azkaban!
The very existence of the paper itself intrigued Echidna, she had a new question enter her mind Was this the parchment used beyond the Waterfall Alec Hoshin alleged Flugel spoke of? It did not seem quite what Hoshin referred to. Having a strange layout than the variation of paper Hoshin spoke of and had less of an order to it than many of the creations she helped Hoshin bring to life in the wilderness. As a writer frankly Echidna was a bit offended by the strange chaotic assortment of paragraphs on the page, some going left to right, some right to left, some sideways going down and up, and a few sentences were flowing across the page like a river. Though it had a more polished look than even things written with her very own book-writing magic. There also was the photo plastered in the center of the page, then upon closing inspection, the photo begin to move. Was this the Evolution of her Magic Mirrors? Was this man responsible for her unceremonious return from the void?
She glared at the man fiercely and spoke her inquiries.
"Who are you, and what do you desire with my return?"
The man's features changed, though, with a longer look, she recognized his movements were not repeating exactly though it was as if he was stuck in some manner of limbo on the page. Only expressing a handful of looks and gestures. Echidna felt the briefest sense of disappointment though a renewed curiosity consumed her. What manner of magic was this… Some combination of soul copying, mixed with writing magic, with a hint of her own magic mirror invention. Her thoughts were filled with the desire to know who managed such a complicated feat. She thought only herself was capable of such capabilities.
She picked up the flyer almost expecting it to not feel like paper, yet to her disappointment it did. Then the words of the flyer began to float across the page above where her fingers gripped it as the image moved again in the same manner as it was curved against the trunk. The words floating across were certainly a beauty to see firsthand, though they seemed to lack a purpose, beyond showcasing the fact they can. It seemed like an unecessairy touch of arrogance. However, the nature of the magic and production that allowed this enchanted flyer to exist as it did...
"A Most curious thought indeed." She said to herself, and the world as she began attempting to decipher the mismash of sentences on the page.
A.N. Welcome to my next attempt to get over writers block for my other stories. This is one I'll definitely be going back to. Curious what people think of the premise. I felt like there was a sever lack of Echidna focused fics in the Re:zero fandom and as far as I know there is not a single crossover story with her in it as a prominent character. Echidna specifically has alot of parallels with the Potterverse. Given her obsession with knowledge I felt she could fit well in this setting. Ahead will be a spoiler for Re;zero beyond the anime.
If anyone is curious this is neither the soul copy of Echidna subaru interacts with in season two nor the artificial spirit. It is actually Echidna, The Witch of Greed in her original body, so she still has the capacity for emotion unlike her soul copy counterpart.
Last edited:
Rusty Justy
I trust you know where the happy button is?
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This looks interesting. Love Echidna and HP. Looking forward to her shenanigans in the wizarding world.
Chapter 2: The Woman worried about everything
FireWalkWithMe99
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Echidna II
Echidna read the article with growing interest, her eyes skimming across the page as she absorbed the words. The more she read, the more her curiosity was piqued. With a closer look, and feel. She couldn't help but notice the magic energies woven into the paper, the way the words seemed to dance and twirl across the page, almost as if they had a life of their own. She still felt their was an arrogance in the craft of it, but there was a certain admiration as well. If her book of wisdom used the same manner of magic, it'd be quite a bit more risky to keep near. Though if your goal was to get news out as it seemed to be in this case, Echidna supposed the magic was well used despite the confusing nature of the layout.
But it was the content of the text floating above the page that truly caught her attention. The Daily Prophet was claiming that the supposed escape of Sirius Black from a Prison called Azkaban was nothing more than a false rumor. Echidna raised an eyebrow at this, wondering why such a story would be circulated in the first place. Was there more to the story than the newspaper was letting on? Of course wouldn't manufacturing an article that claimed something was false only raise more awareness of the claim it was true?
As she delved further into the article, Echidna couldn't help but be reminded of her own experiences. She had been demonized by the public for being a witch of sin beyond human comprehension, despite her noble goals with the sanctuary. The lies, rumors and unfortunate truths that had been spread about her were hard to shake, and she couldn't help but wonder if there was something similar going on with this Sirius Black situation. Their was the moving image to contend with, though as she noticed earlier it seemed to be on a loop of sorts, it was not necessarily indicative of where this Sirius black was in this moment.
She was intrigued by the potential for deception, for hidden motives and ulterior motives. It was clear that there was more to this story than what the Daily Prophet was reporting, and Echidna was determined to uncover the truth. She continued to read, her mind whirring with possibilities and theories. Yet another mystery to unveil the true meaning of in such a short time, made her witch factor project a great glee. She looked around reminding herself of the other mysteries that could lurk beyond the trees, and headed towards the dark canopy the forest thrived in.
As Echidna ventured through the dense forest, her mind was consumed by thoughts of the unknown that could lie here. She had always been fascinated by the mysteries of the world, and this forest seemed to be full of boundless potential. The trees seemed to whisper secrets, the rustling leaves hinting at something just beyond her reach.
As she wandered deeper into the woods, her footsteps echoing in the silence, Echidna's gaze caught sight of a group at first glance they seemed human or elf in appearance but upon a closer look she realized it was a group of beings she had never seen before perhaps a new demihuman? They were unlike anything she had encountered, with torsos and arms that resembled that of a human, but legs of a horse. She recalled legend of such beings coming from beyond the great waterfall. Centaurs was the tale Flugel spun about them if her memory served her right.
Echidna approached them cautiously, intrigued by their unique appearance and curious about their origins. She wondered if they were friendly or combative, regardless of which she went in prepared and careful. As she drew closer, she noticed the centaurs' keen eyes observing her. They seemed a proud and dignified race, and Echidna felt a rush of excitement and anticipation to be in their presence.
She couldn't help but admire the grace with which they moved, and the way they effortlessly blended in with the forest surroundings. They appeared to be in tune with the rhythm of nature, moving with purpose and intent. Echidna found herself drawn to their aura, eager to learn more about these magnificent beings.
Despite her lack of knowledge about their nature and abilities, Echidna approached them with an open heart, eager to learn from their wisdom and knowledge. She felt a sense of connection to them, as if they were guardians of the forest, protectors of all the secrets and magic that lay hidden within.
As she stood in their presence, Echidna felt a sense of peace and tranquility. The centaurs seemed to exude an aura of calmness and serenity, and she felt drawn to their energy. She wondered if they were truly the seers she had heard about, or if there was more to them than met the eye.
With a sense of reverence, Echidna approached the centaurs, hoping to learn more about these fascinating beings and the secrets they guarded within the forest.
As The Witch approached the centaurs, she noticed that they were watching her closely, their gazes seemingly scrutinizing her every move. She tried to remain calm and composed, dialing her power back to avoid causing farther scrutiny and distress, but she couldn't help feeling an unusually sense of nervousness in the face of their own majestic presence.
One of the centaurs, a gray-haired stallion with piercing blue eyes, stepped forward and addressed her. "What brings you here, human?" he asked, his voice deep and resonant.
Echidna took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves before responding. "I come seeking knowledge," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I am Echidna, a witch and a seeker of truth. I feel your wisdom and your connection to the forest, and I wished to learn from you."
The centaur regarded her for a moment, his expression unreadable. Then, he nodded his head slightly, as if in acceptance of her answer. "We are the centaurs," he said, "and we are the guardians of this forest. We live in harmony with nature, and we protect the secrets that lie hidden within its depths."
Echidna listened with rapt attention as the centaur spoke. She couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and respect for these magnificent beings. She knew that their wisdom and knowledge could be invaluable to her, and she felt grateful for the opportunity to learn from them.
"As guardians of the forest," the centaur continued, "we have a duty to protect the secrets that lie hidden within its depths. We have been entrusted with the knowledge of the ancient magic that exists here, and we have sworn to protect it at all costs."
Echidna couldn't help but wonder what secrets lay hidden within the forest, what ancient magic the centaurs were sworn to protect. She felt a thrill of excitement at the thought of uncovering these secrets, of learning about the magic that lay just beyond her reach.
The centaur's eyes seemed to twinkle with amusement as he watched Echidna's expression. "You are curious, young one," he said. "Curiosity can be both a blessing and a curse. It can lead to great discoveries, but it can also lead to great danger."
Echidna nodded, acknowledging the truth of his words well internally chuckling at his assumptions of age. She knew that her curiosity had led her into danger more than once, but she couldn't help but feel that it was a part of who she was, a part of what made her a powerful witch.
The centaur seemed to sense her thoughts. "Curiosity is not something to be feared," he said. "It is a part of what makes us who we are. But it must be tempered with wisdom and caution. You must be careful in your pursuit of knowledge, for there are things in this world that are better left unknown."
Echidna nodded again, taking in the centaur's words. She knew that he was right, that there were dangers lurking in the shadows, secrets that were better left undiscovered. But she also knew that she couldn't resist the allure of the unknown, the call of adventure and discovery.
The centaur regarded her for a moment longer before nodding his head in dismissal. "You may go," he said. "But remember what I have said. Curiosity can be a powerful tool, but it can also be a dangerous one. Use it wisely."
Echidna thanked the centaur, feeling a sense of gratitude and respect for this wise creature. As she turned to leave, she couldn't help but wonder what secrets lay hidden within the forest and returned her gaze towards the centaur.
"I have come seeking knowledge about the world," Echidna said, "and I was hoping that you might be able to teach me about the magic that resides within the forest."
The centaur regarded her with a thoughtful expression. "Knowledge is not something that can be given freely," he said. "It must be earned through hard work and dedication. If you truly seek to learn, then you must prove yourself worthy of our teachings."
Echidna felt a sense of excitement and anticipation at his words. She knew that she had much to learn, but she was eager to take on the challenge. "I am willing to do whatever it takes to earn your knowledge," she said.
The centaur nodded, his eyes seeming to twinkle with a hint of amusement. "We shall see," he said. "For now, you are welcome to observe us and learn from our ways. But remember, knowledge is not just about what you can learn from others. It is about what you can discover within yourself."
With those words, the centaur turned and walked away, leaving Echidna to ponder his words. She knew that she had much to learn, but that only drove her excitement for the opportunity to grow and expand her understanding of the world.
As she watched the centaurs move gracefully through the forest, Echidna felt a sense of wonder and awe wash over her. She knew that this was just the beginning of her journey, and she was eager to see where it would take her.
Echidna spent the rest of the day observing the centaurs and learning from their ways. As the sun began to set, she decided to make her way back to her campsite. However, as she was walking through the forest, she heard a strange humming noise.
Curious, Echidna followed the sound until she came across a young women sitting on a tree's curved branch, humming to herself a striking thing to her was her ashen white hair reminding her much of her own. The woman had a far off look in her eyes and was wearing a pair of bright yellow radish earrings.
"Hello there," the woman said, noticing Echidna's presence. " I don't suppose you've seen my Spectrespecs, have you? They help me see wrackspurts and nargles."
Echidna was surprised by the womans oddness, but she couldn't help but be fascinated by her as well. "I'm Echidna," she said. "I haven't seen your Spectrespecs, cant say I know what they are?, but I'd love to know more about wrackspurts and nargles."
The girl beamed at her. "Luna Lovegood, as for wrackspurts and nargles they're quite fascinating creatures, you see. Wrackspurts are invisible creatures that float through your ears and make your brain go fuzzy. Nargles, on the other hand, are mischievous little creatures that like to steal things."
Echidna listened to Luna's explanation with a mixture of disbelief and intrigue. "That's...very interesting," she said.
Luna giggled. "I know it sounds strange, but I promise you it's all true. I must find my Spectrespecs to go on a wrackspurt hunt. Would you mind helping?"
She was invested in helping the girl, though she still was unsure what Spectrespecs were, "What are these spectrespecs you speak of?"
"They are the spectacles I wear pink with ends ends like wings in each corner, they have a pink hue to them"
Hmm, Echidna had some ideas how the help with this matter, "You said they were your spectacles correct?"
WIth Lunas nod, Echidna began leeching off the presence of her witch factor.
Pulling into her presence moreso Echidna focused her power on the girl she was surprised it did not seem to go into the girls notice but as she focused.
Echidna's eyes caught a glint of something peculiar as Luna approached her. It was a strange sensation that Echidna couldn't quite put her finger on. It was almost as if Luna was emitting a unique energy that was not quite like anything she had ever sensed before.
As Luna spoke, Echidna's mind began to race. She could detect a subtle aura emanating from Luna not quite an ood but something in similar structure, which seemed to be closely connected to something a few yeards off the path Echidna focused her mind and used her magic to sense the aura more deeply.
She followed it, her intuition seemed to be correct; the object off in the deeper grass of the forest matched the description luna gave of her Spectrespecs. Her intrigue led her to view the len's herself and she herself seemed to see things she through the pink len's that were not their in realistic a curious thing, a part of her wanted to take the glasses, but she held the urge back. Instead handing them to the girl who placed them around her neck, Echidna marveled at Luna's eccentricity and how she had harnessed it into a tool that seemed to detect hidden magical phenomena a metia of a new kind for a new world.
"Thank you so much for finding my spectre specs," Luna said, her voice soft and dreamy. "I was starting to worry that I might have lost them for good. They're not just any ordinary glasses, you know. They allow me to see things that others can't. The world is full of magic and wonder, but most people are too blind to see it. Not me though, thanks to these." She held up the glasses and peered through them, her eyes widening in amazement. "Ah, there you are, Nargles," she said with a small smile, as if she were talking to an old friend. "They like to hide in the most peculiar places, you know. But with these spectre specs, they can't escape my notice."
With the return of Luna's glasses Echidna expected that could very well be the end of manners with the girl, but Luna continued staring on at her oddly for a moment then spoke again.
" Would you like to come with me on a wrackspurt hunt? I could use an extra pair of eyes."
Echidna hesitated for a moment, but her curiosity got the better of her. "I do not see, why not?" she said simply
And with that, Luna and Echidna set off on a bizarre adventure through the forest.
A. N. Had my cousin beta this for me, hope everyone liked whats been done. Don't worry its not the last will see of the centuars, and the plot will get rolling more in the next chapter. Hope everyone enjoyed this continuation. Curious everyones thoughts and any speculation
Echidna read the article with growing interest, her eyes skimming across the page as she absorbed the words. The more she read, the more her curiosity was piqued. With a closer look, and feel. She couldn't help but notice the magic energies woven into the paper, the way the words seemed to dance and twirl across the page, almost as if they had a life of their own. She still felt their was an arrogance in the craft of it, but there was a certain admiration as well. If her book of wisdom used the same manner of magic, it'd be quite a bit more risky to keep near. Though if your goal was to get news out as it seemed to be in this case, Echidna supposed the magic was well used despite the confusing nature of the layout.
But it was the content of the text floating above the page that truly caught her attention. The Daily Prophet was claiming that the supposed escape of Sirius Black from a Prison called Azkaban was nothing more than a false rumor. Echidna raised an eyebrow at this, wondering why such a story would be circulated in the first place. Was there more to the story than the newspaper was letting on? Of course wouldn't manufacturing an article that claimed something was false only raise more awareness of the claim it was true?
As she delved further into the article, Echidna couldn't help but be reminded of her own experiences. She had been demonized by the public for being a witch of sin beyond human comprehension, despite her noble goals with the sanctuary. The lies, rumors and unfortunate truths that had been spread about her were hard to shake, and she couldn't help but wonder if there was something similar going on with this Sirius Black situation. Their was the moving image to contend with, though as she noticed earlier it seemed to be on a loop of sorts, it was not necessarily indicative of where this Sirius black was in this moment.
She was intrigued by the potential for deception, for hidden motives and ulterior motives. It was clear that there was more to this story than what the Daily Prophet was reporting, and Echidna was determined to uncover the truth. She continued to read, her mind whirring with possibilities and theories. Yet another mystery to unveil the true meaning of in such a short time, made her witch factor project a great glee. She looked around reminding herself of the other mysteries that could lurk beyond the trees, and headed towards the dark canopy the forest thrived in.
As Echidna ventured through the dense forest, her mind was consumed by thoughts of the unknown that could lie here. She had always been fascinated by the mysteries of the world, and this forest seemed to be full of boundless potential. The trees seemed to whisper secrets, the rustling leaves hinting at something just beyond her reach.
As she wandered deeper into the woods, her footsteps echoing in the silence, Echidna's gaze caught sight of a group at first glance they seemed human or elf in appearance but upon a closer look she realized it was a group of beings she had never seen before perhaps a new demihuman? They were unlike anything she had encountered, with torsos and arms that resembled that of a human, but legs of a horse. She recalled legend of such beings coming from beyond the great waterfall. Centaurs was the tale Flugel spun about them if her memory served her right.
Echidna approached them cautiously, intrigued by their unique appearance and curious about their origins. She wondered if they were friendly or combative, regardless of which she went in prepared and careful. As she drew closer, she noticed the centaurs' keen eyes observing her. They seemed a proud and dignified race, and Echidna felt a rush of excitement and anticipation to be in their presence.
She couldn't help but admire the grace with which they moved, and the way they effortlessly blended in with the forest surroundings. They appeared to be in tune with the rhythm of nature, moving with purpose and intent. Echidna found herself drawn to their aura, eager to learn more about these magnificent beings.
Despite her lack of knowledge about their nature and abilities, Echidna approached them with an open heart, eager to learn from their wisdom and knowledge. She felt a sense of connection to them, as if they were guardians of the forest, protectors of all the secrets and magic that lay hidden within.
As she stood in their presence, Echidna felt a sense of peace and tranquility. The centaurs seemed to exude an aura of calmness and serenity, and she felt drawn to their energy. She wondered if they were truly the seers she had heard about, or if there was more to them than met the eye.
With a sense of reverence, Echidna approached the centaurs, hoping to learn more about these fascinating beings and the secrets they guarded within the forest.
As The Witch approached the centaurs, she noticed that they were watching her closely, their gazes seemingly scrutinizing her every move. She tried to remain calm and composed, dialing her power back to avoid causing farther scrutiny and distress, but she couldn't help feeling an unusually sense of nervousness in the face of their own majestic presence.
One of the centaurs, a gray-haired stallion with piercing blue eyes, stepped forward and addressed her. "What brings you here, human?" he asked, his voice deep and resonant.
Echidna took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves before responding. "I come seeking knowledge," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I am Echidna, a witch and a seeker of truth. I feel your wisdom and your connection to the forest, and I wished to learn from you."
The centaur regarded her for a moment, his expression unreadable. Then, he nodded his head slightly, as if in acceptance of her answer. "We are the centaurs," he said, "and we are the guardians of this forest. We live in harmony with nature, and we protect the secrets that lie hidden within its depths."
Echidna listened with rapt attention as the centaur spoke. She couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and respect for these magnificent beings. She knew that their wisdom and knowledge could be invaluable to her, and she felt grateful for the opportunity to learn from them.
"As guardians of the forest," the centaur continued, "we have a duty to protect the secrets that lie hidden within its depths. We have been entrusted with the knowledge of the ancient magic that exists here, and we have sworn to protect it at all costs."
Echidna couldn't help but wonder what secrets lay hidden within the forest, what ancient magic the centaurs were sworn to protect. She felt a thrill of excitement at the thought of uncovering these secrets, of learning about the magic that lay just beyond her reach.
The centaur's eyes seemed to twinkle with amusement as he watched Echidna's expression. "You are curious, young one," he said. "Curiosity can be both a blessing and a curse. It can lead to great discoveries, but it can also lead to great danger."
Echidna nodded, acknowledging the truth of his words well internally chuckling at his assumptions of age. She knew that her curiosity had led her into danger more than once, but she couldn't help but feel that it was a part of who she was, a part of what made her a powerful witch.
The centaur seemed to sense her thoughts. "Curiosity is not something to be feared," he said. "It is a part of what makes us who we are. But it must be tempered with wisdom and caution. You must be careful in your pursuit of knowledge, for there are things in this world that are better left unknown."
Echidna nodded again, taking in the centaur's words. She knew that he was right, that there were dangers lurking in the shadows, secrets that were better left undiscovered. But she also knew that she couldn't resist the allure of the unknown, the call of adventure and discovery.
The centaur regarded her for a moment longer before nodding his head in dismissal. "You may go," he said. "But remember what I have said. Curiosity can be a powerful tool, but it can also be a dangerous one. Use it wisely."
Echidna thanked the centaur, feeling a sense of gratitude and respect for this wise creature. As she turned to leave, she couldn't help but wonder what secrets lay hidden within the forest and returned her gaze towards the centaur.
"I have come seeking knowledge about the world," Echidna said, "and I was hoping that you might be able to teach me about the magic that resides within the forest."
The centaur regarded her with a thoughtful expression. "Knowledge is not something that can be given freely," he said. "It must be earned through hard work and dedication. If you truly seek to learn, then you must prove yourself worthy of our teachings."
Echidna felt a sense of excitement and anticipation at his words. She knew that she had much to learn, but she was eager to take on the challenge. "I am willing to do whatever it takes to earn your knowledge," she said.
The centaur nodded, his eyes seeming to twinkle with a hint of amusement. "We shall see," he said. "For now, you are welcome to observe us and learn from our ways. But remember, knowledge is not just about what you can learn from others. It is about what you can discover within yourself."
With those words, the centaur turned and walked away, leaving Echidna to ponder his words. She knew that she had much to learn, but that only drove her excitement for the opportunity to grow and expand her understanding of the world.
As she watched the centaurs move gracefully through the forest, Echidna felt a sense of wonder and awe wash over her. She knew that this was just the beginning of her journey, and she was eager to see where it would take her.
Echidna spent the rest of the day observing the centaurs and learning from their ways. As the sun began to set, she decided to make her way back to her campsite. However, as she was walking through the forest, she heard a strange humming noise.
Curious, Echidna followed the sound until she came across a young women sitting on a tree's curved branch, humming to herself a striking thing to her was her ashen white hair reminding her much of her own. The woman had a far off look in her eyes and was wearing a pair of bright yellow radish earrings.
"Hello there," the woman said, noticing Echidna's presence. " I don't suppose you've seen my Spectrespecs, have you? They help me see wrackspurts and nargles."
Echidna was surprised by the womans oddness, but she couldn't help but be fascinated by her as well. "I'm Echidna," she said. "I haven't seen your Spectrespecs, cant say I know what they are?, but I'd love to know more about wrackspurts and nargles."
The girl beamed at her. "Luna Lovegood, as for wrackspurts and nargles they're quite fascinating creatures, you see. Wrackspurts are invisible creatures that float through your ears and make your brain go fuzzy. Nargles, on the other hand, are mischievous little creatures that like to steal things."
Echidna listened to Luna's explanation with a mixture of disbelief and intrigue. "That's...very interesting," she said.
Luna giggled. "I know it sounds strange, but I promise you it's all true. I must find my Spectrespecs to go on a wrackspurt hunt. Would you mind helping?"
She was invested in helping the girl, though she still was unsure what Spectrespecs were, "What are these spectrespecs you speak of?"
"They are the spectacles I wear pink with ends ends like wings in each corner, they have a pink hue to them"
Hmm, Echidna had some ideas how the help with this matter, "You said they were your spectacles correct?"
WIth Lunas nod, Echidna began leeching off the presence of her witch factor.
Pulling into her presence moreso Echidna focused her power on the girl she was surprised it did not seem to go into the girls notice but as she focused.
Echidna's eyes caught a glint of something peculiar as Luna approached her. It was a strange sensation that Echidna couldn't quite put her finger on. It was almost as if Luna was emitting a unique energy that was not quite like anything she had ever sensed before.
As Luna spoke, Echidna's mind began to race. She could detect a subtle aura emanating from Luna not quite an ood but something in similar structure, which seemed to be closely connected to something a few yeards off the path Echidna focused her mind and used her magic to sense the aura more deeply.
She followed it, her intuition seemed to be correct; the object off in the deeper grass of the forest matched the description luna gave of her Spectrespecs. Her intrigue led her to view the len's herself and she herself seemed to see things she through the pink len's that were not their in realistic a curious thing, a part of her wanted to take the glasses, but she held the urge back. Instead handing them to the girl who placed them around her neck, Echidna marveled at Luna's eccentricity and how she had harnessed it into a tool that seemed to detect hidden magical phenomena a metia of a new kind for a new world.
"Thank you so much for finding my spectre specs," Luna said, her voice soft and dreamy. "I was starting to worry that I might have lost them for good. They're not just any ordinary glasses, you know. They allow me to see things that others can't. The world is full of magic and wonder, but most people are too blind to see it. Not me though, thanks to these." She held up the glasses and peered through them, her eyes widening in amazement. "Ah, there you are, Nargles," she said with a small smile, as if she were talking to an old friend. "They like to hide in the most peculiar places, you know. But with these spectre specs, they can't escape my notice."
With the return of Luna's glasses Echidna expected that could very well be the end of manners with the girl, but Luna continued staring on at her oddly for a moment then spoke again.
" Would you like to come with me on a wrackspurt hunt? I could use an extra pair of eyes."
Echidna hesitated for a moment, but her curiosity got the better of her. "I do not see, why not?" she said simply
And with that, Luna and Echidna set off on a bizarre adventure through the forest.
A. N. Had my cousin beta this for me, hope everyone liked whats been done. Don't worry its not the last will see of the centuars, and the plot will get rolling more in the next chapter. Hope everyone enjoyed this continuation. Curious everyones thoughts and any speculation
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Rusty Justy
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Dona and Luna's excellent adventure.
I'm sure that's not a train wreck waiting to happen lol.
I'm sure that's not a train wreck waiting to happen lol.
FireWalkWithMe99
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Jao
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Xenforo (the forums software) hates Firefox it seems, so I was unable to quote the paragraph. So here's a screenshot.
Luna telling Echidna what Spectrespecs are should come before the explanation on wrackspurts and nargles.
Lovegood introduces herself twice.
Lovegood* not Lovegoode
Also is this a repost, or a cross-post from somewhere else? I remember reading the first chapter before.
Luna telling Echidna what Spectrespecs are should come before the explanation on wrackspurts and nargles.
Lovegood introduces herself twice.
Lovegood* not Lovegoode
Also is this a repost, or a cross-post from somewhere else? I remember reading the first chapter before.
FireWalkWithMe99
Getting sticky.
- Joined
- Jun 10, 2023
- Messages
- 66
- Likes received
- 451
Xenforo (the forums software) hates Firefox it seems, so I was unable to quote the paragraph. So here's a screenshot.
Luna telling Echidna what Spectrespecs are should come before the explanation on wrackspurts and nargles.
Lovegood introduces herself twice.
Lovegood* not Lovegoode
Also is this a repost, or a cross-post from somewhere else? I remember reading the first chapter before.
I fixed the double introduction as for Luna talking about Wrackspurt and Nargles first i did that on purpose… it was supposed to come across as odd on purpose. You think itd work better else where?
yea i posted this to SV and some other sites awhile back. Just joined this site recently. Gonna be continuing chapter 3 soon.
Chapter 3: Beyond Sanity
FireWalkWithMe99
Getting sticky.
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Luna I
Luna often found herself drawn to the peculiar and arcane, an odd sort of solace in things others might shy away from. The presence of the mysterious woman, Echidna, therefore, ignite a wondrous flame rather than fear in her heart. The lesser known always held such beauty in this world. As they meandered through the dense, whispering forest searching for now hidden Wrackspurts, Luna's steps were light, almost dance-like, mirroring her buoyant curiosity.
Echidna was different from the typical visitors Hogsmede received. Echidna's appearance was peculiar, though not nonexistent. Her hair was as white as the first snow of winter, cascading down her back like a frozen waterfall, and her eyes a void of unreachable depths. Even the way Echidna moved differed, she came across as if she hasn't walked in her entire life but still sure footed. "She looks like she could be a character straight out of 'The Tales of Beedle the Bard'," A faint smile came upon Lunas features at the thought.
She neither has the air of a professor, nor does she seem lost. Luna silently wondered what quest brought her to the forest grounds.
To Luna, Echidna was quickly becoming like the riddles of the Ravenclaw common. "Maybe she's here to uncover some hidden magical creature, or perhaps she's tracking down a rare potion ingredient," Luna thought, her imagination blooming with possibilities. "Or could she be on a secret mission? Maybe she's a detective of the magical world!"
The idea of Echidna being involved in some sort of quest of her own seemed to fit perfectly. Perhaps she was researching herbs an extraordinary spell or seeking an ancient magical artifact, Luna continued her train of thought, her mind a whirlpool of fanciful ideas. Maybe she's here to consult the Hogwarts library; it's one of the largest repositories of magical knowledge, after all.
In Luna's world, where the the lines of reality were beautifully blurred, Echidna fit right in. She was another puzzle piece in the grand, intricate webbing of the world, a world where every being had a role in its synergy. .
Luna's gaze rested on Echidna once more, a soft smile gracing her lips. Whatever her reason for being here, I'm sure it's a fascinating one. The Forbidden forest always has room for mystery today was no exception.
She realized she was being forgetful of herself and looks over to the woman again. "Thank you for helping me find my Spectrespecs," Luna said in her dreamy voice, her large silvery eyes reflecting genuine gratitude. "I don't know what I would do without them. They're quite essential for spotting Wrackspurts, you know."
Her eyes, gleaming with a subtle intrigue, studied Luna's Spectrespecs with an analytical gaze. "In my own pursuits of knowledge, I have encountered many peculiar entities and metia, but Wrackspurts are new to me. I find the distinctive magical elements of this realm quite remarkable."
Luna pondered Echidna's words thoughtfully, her gaze drifting towards the canopy of leaves above them, dappled with the golden hues of the setting sun. "Another realm?" she mused silently. The idea wasn't as far-fetched to Luna as it might be to others; though still she assumed the woman simply meant she was coming from another country.
"Perhaps she's a visitor from America," Luna considered, recalling the stories and pictures she had seen in 'The Quibbler'. "Or maybe even a professor from Mahoutokoro." Luna's eyes returned to Echidna, taking in her attire once more. It did have a certain elegance and exotic flair to it, reminiscent of the images she had seen in her Wizarding World History classes. The robes of Mahoutokoro were known for their distinctive style, and Echidna's outfit seemed to somewhat echo that aesthetic.
Her imagination began to weave tales around Echidna, envisioning her as a learned scholar from the esteemed Japanese wizarding school, perhaps on a sabbatical to explore the magical traditions of other cultures. "She must have seen so many wonders," Luna thought, her eyes sparkling with admiration and curiosity.
As they continued their walk, Luna's innate curiosity bubbled to the surface. "If you don't mind me asking, Echidna," she began in her soft, singsong voice, "what brings you here? You have an air of someone from far beyond the hills and valleys of Hogwarts."
Echidna's response was a small smirk, as if amused by Luna's question. Luna, undeterred by the lack of a direct answer, continued, "You see, I've heard about witches and wizards from distant lands from my father, but you seem... different."
Echidna's smile widened ever so slightly, a playfulness filling previously abyssal irises. "Different, you say?" she mused, her voice as smooth as silk. "Perhaps that's because I am not of your world in any respect. I come from a place where magic... Takes on a different form, magic is more a part of us."
Luna listened carefully, her eyes extensive with fascination truly another world? "A different shape of magic?" she echoed, her imagination already painting vivid dreams. "That sounds particularly exciting. Is it like the magic we've got here at Hogwarts?"
"Not quite, at least from the little i've seen" Echidna spoke back, her gaze drifting to the canopy above as if recalling reminiscences from a distant past. "The magic I understand is more... Intertwined with the very fabric of reality. Here there seems to be a greater separation. Where I come from, it's as natural as the air we breathe, an elemental force bound to our souls."
"In the Forbidden Forest?" Luna asked, her question flowing more naturally. "I've always felt the magic there is older, wilder, more intrinsic. Is it like that?"
Echidna nodded slightly. "Similar, yes. This Forest does have a more ancient, untamed magic. But even that pales in comparison to the raw, primal energy that permeates everything in my realm."
Luna's thought Echidna's answer was strange she always heard the magic here was the same as the magic societies around the world. The same must be true even for another world if her words rang true. "What was it like, experiencing such a shift in magical energy when you arrived here?"
Echidna paused, considering her response. "It was disorienting at first. The magic here is like a different language, one I am still learning to understand. But there's a beauty in its complexity, a rhythm and order… to see such pointless displays of pride however is unbecoming."
Luna furrowed her brow slightly, Echidna's description of the magic here puzzling her. She had always understood that magic, in its essence, was a universal language, though its expressions varied across cultures. The mention of "pointless displays of pride" in particular set Luna's thoughts adrift. She recalled instances where her classmates in Gryffindor, and sometimes even those in Slytherin, would cast spells that were more about showmanship than substance.
"What do you mean by pointless displays of pride?" Luna asked, her voice tinged with genuine curiosity. She thought of the spells that were often more flash than function, wondering if this was what Echidna referred to.
Echidna's eyes held a reflective quality as she answered. "Take, for example, the Daily Prophet paper I came across. Its magical presentation of words flowing in myriad directions, changing fonts seemingly at whim – I found it disorienting and unnecessary. It felt more like a showcase of magical prowess than a means of effective communication. Though there is a certain greed in such a display I can respect"
Luna tilted her head, considering this perspective. The Daily Prophet had always been a part of her world, its dynamic and animated pages a norm in the wizarding community. "I suppose I've never thought of it that way," she admitted. "It's always been like that, ever since I can remember. Even the older editions my father has shared carry the same style."
She paused, pondering Echidna's viewpoint. "I can see how it might be confusing to someone not used to it. It's very different from the muggle newspapers. But you're not a muggle, are you? Your nature seems far too... intricate for that."
Echidna offered a faint, knowing smile."Indeed I suspect whatever a muggle is to you I am certain not one" she responded with a tone of gentle inquiry. "However, I find myself curious. What exactly is a muggle?"
Luna's eyes lit up at the question, eager to share a piece of her world though also curious how different it must be to not have "Muggles". "Oh, a muggle is a human who doesn't have magic," she explained, her voice taking on the cadence of a storyteller. "They live in a world quite separate from ours, often completely oblivious of the magic that exists all around them. It's a term we use in the wizarding community to describe non-magical people."
"A world without magic..." Echidna mused, her expression reflective. "It must be a vastly different experience, living without any awareness of the magical forces that permeate existence."
"Yes, it's quite different," Luna agreed, her tone soft and dreamy. "But muggles find their own kind of magic in the world, in things like science and art. It's not the same as casting spells or brewing potions, but it's still quite wonderful in its own way."
Echidna's expression shifted to one of understanding, a faint glimmer of realization in her eyes. "Ah, I see," she said thoughtfully.
Luna's mind lingered on Echidna's revelation of being from another world, a concept that stretched the boundaries of her already vast imagination. The idea that someone could come from a place entirely separate from their known world was the stuff of the fantastical tales she loved. Yet, there was something about Echidna – the ethereal quality in her demeanor, the depth in her gaze that seemed to hold ancient secrets – that made Luna consider the possibility. "Could she truly be an exception to what we understand about magic?" Luna wondered, her thoughts swirling like leaves in a mystical dance.
As these thoughts danced in her mind, Luna's eyes caught a subtle movement. The butterfly pin in Echidna's hair – a beautiful, intricate creature of green and black – seemed to come to life, gently fluttering it's wings. Luna watched, mesmerized, as the butterfly took flight, leaving Echidna's hair and dancing through the air.
Curiosity getting the better of her, Luna asked, "How did you come to be here, in our world?"
Echidna's answer came with a reflective tone, as if she were recalling a dream. "It was purely accidental," she explained. "In my realm, I had willingly entered a deep slumber, awaiting someone to awaken me. But it seems the one who came did far more than merely rouse me from my sleep. They somehow brought me here, beyond the great waterfall of my world." She chuckled softly to herself, the sound carrying a mix of bewilderment and curiosity.
"The great waterfall..." Luna echoed, her mind painting images of colossal cascades in mystical lands. Her gaze drifted to a wrackspurt floating nearby, visible only through her Spectrespecs. She pondered on asking Echidna about this great waterfall but decided to keep her focus on the present task.
Just then, a butterfly, identical in appearance to Echidna's hairpin, fluttered past Luna's right eye. She glanced back at Echidna, only to notice the pin was no longer there. "Could it be her familiar?" Luna thought, a sense of wonder filling her. An insect familiar is quite unusual, but then again, so is almost everything about her. The idea of a butterfly familiar, so delicate and free, yet so integral to its witch, seemed fitting for Echidna.
Finally Luna's eyes spotted a wrackspurt. Its flight was erratic and whimsical, a dance of the unseen that only she could appreciate. A great excitement bubbled within her. "Look, Echidna, a wrackspurt!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with the thrill of the chase. "Let's follow it; they often lead to interesting places." She didn't wait for a response, her feet carrying her swiftly along the creature's flight path, guided by the invisible yet palpable presence of the wrackspurt.
Echidna, clearly unaccustomed to such an impromptu and whimsical pursuit, followed with earnest determination. Her movements, though graceful, lacked the carefree agility Luna displayed. As they navigated through the dense underbrush. Echidna's pace begin to lag, lines of perspiration marking her brow and arms, evidence of her effort to keep up in unfamiliar territory.
Their chase led them deeper into the forest, where the canopy above meshed the evening suns glow and the forest thick leaves. The elusive wrackspurt finally seemed within reach.
Suddenly a stern and authoritative voice resonated through the trees, halting their pursuit. "Miss Lovegood, what are you doing in the forest at this hour?" Luna, slightly startled, turned to see the familiar figure of Professor McGonagall approaching, her expression etched with both concern and anger.
As McGonagall's gaze shifted to Echidna, her stern demeanor wavered, leading way to suspicion and worry. "And who might this be?" she inquired, her voice maintaining its firmness but with a sharpened edge. The lines on her face, usually set in authoritative composure, now betrayed a hint of unease as she regarded the unknown woman standing beside her student in the secluded forest.
Echidna, meeting McGonagall's gaze, stood with an air of calm respect, an unspoken acknowledgment of the professor's authority in her posture. The depths of her eyes seemed to momentarily deepen, before she gave a slight nod.
"I am Echidna," she introduced herself, her voice remaining smooth and even. "I find myself here by accident, and I am just as curious about your world as you are about my presence."
McGonagall's gaze remained fixed on Echidna, her eyes sharp and penetrating, trying to decipher the truth behind her words. "I see," she replied, her voice still edged but now couples with undercurrents of confusion. "I must insist that you come with me. Your presence here is highly unusual, and we need to ensure that Hogwarts' safety is not compromised."
"Of course, . I am eager to learn more about your world as well." Echidna's response was marked by a faint smile of genuine interest, not dissimilar to the demeanor of a scholar intrigued by a new subject of study. Just then, the butterfly familiar, having briefly explored the night air, fluttered back to Echidna, seamlessly resuming its guise as a hairpin in her hair.
"And who might you be?" Her tone carried a hint of curiosity, recognizing the Professors commanding presence.
McGonagall, her skepticism palpable, introduced herself with a brief, stern reply. "I am Professor Minerva McGonagall, Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, " she stated, her voice conveying an unshakable will. Her gaze continuing to scrutinize every detail of her features.
"Miss Lovegood, you and... Echidna," she said, emphasizing the name as if testing its truth, "will come with me to my office. We must discuss this matter further."
Her tone left no room for argument, echoing with the authority that came from years of stewardship over the students and secrets of Hogwarts. "There will be no exceptions," she added sternly, her eyes commanding.
As she spoke, McGonagall's gaze warily returned to Echidna, no doubt mind filled with unspoken questions and suspicions. "It is imperative that we gain full comprehension of your presence here," McGonagall continued, her tone becoming protective.
Echidna, seemingly unperturbed by the severity of the situation, nodded in acknowledgment. "As you wish, Professor Mi- … McGonagall," she replied, her voice briefly unsettled as she cuts herself off, Luna found herself wondering what could have caused such a composed and mysterious woman to momentarily lose her poise. "Does the name 'McGonagall' mean something more to her?" Luna thought, her mind teeming with possibilities. The night air seeming to still around them, the forest holding its breath as two worlds, each mysterious in its own right, met under the watchful eyes of the trees leaving even the nargles mute.
A.N. Its been 84 years, apologies for the long wait on the update I got busy with school then got invested in ff16 (may write a fic for that one day) and then focused on my fitness and self development over summer, then school again, then a older family member along with myself got covid well right before I was finishing the semester. THroughout it all I admittedly was more focused on getting more chapters out for my Nier/ASOIAF fic "A Song of Bards and Maso" . Though I never intended to leave people hanging on this fic this long. I'd say im a much more disciplined person when it comes to writing and getting things done these days. All the same writers block still happens but I aim to start updating my 3 priority fics (this being one of them) a lot more regularly.
Also been looking at videos for outlining and writing advice and such. Which definitely is helpful to make the planning phase a lot more coherent.
This story does have a general outline theres still plenty of in between moments I have to figure out.
Anyways hope everyone enjoyed this chapter. Curious what everyone thinks of both Lunas POV if it seemed in character along with the other canon character that appears here.
Luna often found herself drawn to the peculiar and arcane, an odd sort of solace in things others might shy away from. The presence of the mysterious woman, Echidna, therefore, ignite a wondrous flame rather than fear in her heart. The lesser known always held such beauty in this world. As they meandered through the dense, whispering forest searching for now hidden Wrackspurts, Luna's steps were light, almost dance-like, mirroring her buoyant curiosity.
Echidna was different from the typical visitors Hogsmede received. Echidna's appearance was peculiar, though not nonexistent. Her hair was as white as the first snow of winter, cascading down her back like a frozen waterfall, and her eyes a void of unreachable depths. Even the way Echidna moved differed, she came across as if she hasn't walked in her entire life but still sure footed. "She looks like she could be a character straight out of 'The Tales of Beedle the Bard'," A faint smile came upon Lunas features at the thought.
She neither has the air of a professor, nor does she seem lost. Luna silently wondered what quest brought her to the forest grounds.
To Luna, Echidna was quickly becoming like the riddles of the Ravenclaw common. "Maybe she's here to uncover some hidden magical creature, or perhaps she's tracking down a rare potion ingredient," Luna thought, her imagination blooming with possibilities. "Or could she be on a secret mission? Maybe she's a detective of the magical world!"
The idea of Echidna being involved in some sort of quest of her own seemed to fit perfectly. Perhaps she was researching herbs an extraordinary spell or seeking an ancient magical artifact, Luna continued her train of thought, her mind a whirlpool of fanciful ideas. Maybe she's here to consult the Hogwarts library; it's one of the largest repositories of magical knowledge, after all.
In Luna's world, where the the lines of reality were beautifully blurred, Echidna fit right in. She was another puzzle piece in the grand, intricate webbing of the world, a world where every being had a role in its synergy. .
Luna's gaze rested on Echidna once more, a soft smile gracing her lips. Whatever her reason for being here, I'm sure it's a fascinating one. The Forbidden forest always has room for mystery today was no exception.
She realized she was being forgetful of herself and looks over to the woman again. "Thank you for helping me find my Spectrespecs," Luna said in her dreamy voice, her large silvery eyes reflecting genuine gratitude. "I don't know what I would do without them. They're quite essential for spotting Wrackspurts, you know."
Her eyes, gleaming with a subtle intrigue, studied Luna's Spectrespecs with an analytical gaze. "In my own pursuits of knowledge, I have encountered many peculiar entities and metia, but Wrackspurts are new to me. I find the distinctive magical elements of this realm quite remarkable."
Luna pondered Echidna's words thoughtfully, her gaze drifting towards the canopy of leaves above them, dappled with the golden hues of the setting sun. "Another realm?" she mused silently. The idea wasn't as far-fetched to Luna as it might be to others; though still she assumed the woman simply meant she was coming from another country.
"Perhaps she's a visitor from America," Luna considered, recalling the stories and pictures she had seen in 'The Quibbler'. "Or maybe even a professor from Mahoutokoro." Luna's eyes returned to Echidna, taking in her attire once more. It did have a certain elegance and exotic flair to it, reminiscent of the images she had seen in her Wizarding World History classes. The robes of Mahoutokoro were known for their distinctive style, and Echidna's outfit seemed to somewhat echo that aesthetic.
Her imagination began to weave tales around Echidna, envisioning her as a learned scholar from the esteemed Japanese wizarding school, perhaps on a sabbatical to explore the magical traditions of other cultures. "She must have seen so many wonders," Luna thought, her eyes sparkling with admiration and curiosity.
As they continued their walk, Luna's innate curiosity bubbled to the surface. "If you don't mind me asking, Echidna," she began in her soft, singsong voice, "what brings you here? You have an air of someone from far beyond the hills and valleys of Hogwarts."
Echidna's response was a small smirk, as if amused by Luna's question. Luna, undeterred by the lack of a direct answer, continued, "You see, I've heard about witches and wizards from distant lands from my father, but you seem... different."
Echidna's smile widened ever so slightly, a playfulness filling previously abyssal irises. "Different, you say?" she mused, her voice as smooth as silk. "Perhaps that's because I am not of your world in any respect. I come from a place where magic... Takes on a different form, magic is more a part of us."
Luna listened carefully, her eyes extensive with fascination truly another world? "A different shape of magic?" she echoed, her imagination already painting vivid dreams. "That sounds particularly exciting. Is it like the magic we've got here at Hogwarts?"
"Not quite, at least from the little i've seen" Echidna spoke back, her gaze drifting to the canopy above as if recalling reminiscences from a distant past. "The magic I understand is more... Intertwined with the very fabric of reality. Here there seems to be a greater separation. Where I come from, it's as natural as the air we breathe, an elemental force bound to our souls."
"In the Forbidden Forest?" Luna asked, her question flowing more naturally. "I've always felt the magic there is older, wilder, more intrinsic. Is it like that?"
Echidna nodded slightly. "Similar, yes. This Forest does have a more ancient, untamed magic. But even that pales in comparison to the raw, primal energy that permeates everything in my realm."
Luna's thought Echidna's answer was strange she always heard the magic here was the same as the magic societies around the world. The same must be true even for another world if her words rang true. "What was it like, experiencing such a shift in magical energy when you arrived here?"
Echidna paused, considering her response. "It was disorienting at first. The magic here is like a different language, one I am still learning to understand. But there's a beauty in its complexity, a rhythm and order… to see such pointless displays of pride however is unbecoming."
Luna furrowed her brow slightly, Echidna's description of the magic here puzzling her. She had always understood that magic, in its essence, was a universal language, though its expressions varied across cultures. The mention of "pointless displays of pride" in particular set Luna's thoughts adrift. She recalled instances where her classmates in Gryffindor, and sometimes even those in Slytherin, would cast spells that were more about showmanship than substance.
"What do you mean by pointless displays of pride?" Luna asked, her voice tinged with genuine curiosity. She thought of the spells that were often more flash than function, wondering if this was what Echidna referred to.
Echidna's eyes held a reflective quality as she answered. "Take, for example, the Daily Prophet paper I came across. Its magical presentation of words flowing in myriad directions, changing fonts seemingly at whim – I found it disorienting and unnecessary. It felt more like a showcase of magical prowess than a means of effective communication. Though there is a certain greed in such a display I can respect"
Luna tilted her head, considering this perspective. The Daily Prophet had always been a part of her world, its dynamic and animated pages a norm in the wizarding community. "I suppose I've never thought of it that way," she admitted. "It's always been like that, ever since I can remember. Even the older editions my father has shared carry the same style."
She paused, pondering Echidna's viewpoint. "I can see how it might be confusing to someone not used to it. It's very different from the muggle newspapers. But you're not a muggle, are you? Your nature seems far too... intricate for that."
Echidna offered a faint, knowing smile."Indeed I suspect whatever a muggle is to you I am certain not one" she responded with a tone of gentle inquiry. "However, I find myself curious. What exactly is a muggle?"
Luna's eyes lit up at the question, eager to share a piece of her world though also curious how different it must be to not have "Muggles". "Oh, a muggle is a human who doesn't have magic," she explained, her voice taking on the cadence of a storyteller. "They live in a world quite separate from ours, often completely oblivious of the magic that exists all around them. It's a term we use in the wizarding community to describe non-magical people."
"A world without magic..." Echidna mused, her expression reflective. "It must be a vastly different experience, living without any awareness of the magical forces that permeate existence."
"Yes, it's quite different," Luna agreed, her tone soft and dreamy. "But muggles find their own kind of magic in the world, in things like science and art. It's not the same as casting spells or brewing potions, but it's still quite wonderful in its own way."
Echidna's expression shifted to one of understanding, a faint glimmer of realization in her eyes. "Ah, I see," she said thoughtfully.
Luna's mind lingered on Echidna's revelation of being from another world, a concept that stretched the boundaries of her already vast imagination. The idea that someone could come from a place entirely separate from their known world was the stuff of the fantastical tales she loved. Yet, there was something about Echidna – the ethereal quality in her demeanor, the depth in her gaze that seemed to hold ancient secrets – that made Luna consider the possibility. "Could she truly be an exception to what we understand about magic?" Luna wondered, her thoughts swirling like leaves in a mystical dance.
As these thoughts danced in her mind, Luna's eyes caught a subtle movement. The butterfly pin in Echidna's hair – a beautiful, intricate creature of green and black – seemed to come to life, gently fluttering it's wings. Luna watched, mesmerized, as the butterfly took flight, leaving Echidna's hair and dancing through the air.
Curiosity getting the better of her, Luna asked, "How did you come to be here, in our world?"
Echidna's answer came with a reflective tone, as if she were recalling a dream. "It was purely accidental," she explained. "In my realm, I had willingly entered a deep slumber, awaiting someone to awaken me. But it seems the one who came did far more than merely rouse me from my sleep. They somehow brought me here, beyond the great waterfall of my world." She chuckled softly to herself, the sound carrying a mix of bewilderment and curiosity.
"The great waterfall..." Luna echoed, her mind painting images of colossal cascades in mystical lands. Her gaze drifted to a wrackspurt floating nearby, visible only through her Spectrespecs. She pondered on asking Echidna about this great waterfall but decided to keep her focus on the present task.
Just then, a butterfly, identical in appearance to Echidna's hairpin, fluttered past Luna's right eye. She glanced back at Echidna, only to notice the pin was no longer there. "Could it be her familiar?" Luna thought, a sense of wonder filling her. An insect familiar is quite unusual, but then again, so is almost everything about her. The idea of a butterfly familiar, so delicate and free, yet so integral to its witch, seemed fitting for Echidna.
Finally Luna's eyes spotted a wrackspurt. Its flight was erratic and whimsical, a dance of the unseen that only she could appreciate. A great excitement bubbled within her. "Look, Echidna, a wrackspurt!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with the thrill of the chase. "Let's follow it; they often lead to interesting places." She didn't wait for a response, her feet carrying her swiftly along the creature's flight path, guided by the invisible yet palpable presence of the wrackspurt.
Echidna, clearly unaccustomed to such an impromptu and whimsical pursuit, followed with earnest determination. Her movements, though graceful, lacked the carefree agility Luna displayed. As they navigated through the dense underbrush. Echidna's pace begin to lag, lines of perspiration marking her brow and arms, evidence of her effort to keep up in unfamiliar territory.
Their chase led them deeper into the forest, where the canopy above meshed the evening suns glow and the forest thick leaves. The elusive wrackspurt finally seemed within reach.
Suddenly a stern and authoritative voice resonated through the trees, halting their pursuit. "Miss Lovegood, what are you doing in the forest at this hour?" Luna, slightly startled, turned to see the familiar figure of Professor McGonagall approaching, her expression etched with both concern and anger.
As McGonagall's gaze shifted to Echidna, her stern demeanor wavered, leading way to suspicion and worry. "And who might this be?" she inquired, her voice maintaining its firmness but with a sharpened edge. The lines on her face, usually set in authoritative composure, now betrayed a hint of unease as she regarded the unknown woman standing beside her student in the secluded forest.
Echidna, meeting McGonagall's gaze, stood with an air of calm respect, an unspoken acknowledgment of the professor's authority in her posture. The depths of her eyes seemed to momentarily deepen, before she gave a slight nod.
"I am Echidna," she introduced herself, her voice remaining smooth and even. "I find myself here by accident, and I am just as curious about your world as you are about my presence."
McGonagall's gaze remained fixed on Echidna, her eyes sharp and penetrating, trying to decipher the truth behind her words. "I see," she replied, her voice still edged but now couples with undercurrents of confusion. "I must insist that you come with me. Your presence here is highly unusual, and we need to ensure that Hogwarts' safety is not compromised."
"Of course, . I am eager to learn more about your world as well." Echidna's response was marked by a faint smile of genuine interest, not dissimilar to the demeanor of a scholar intrigued by a new subject of study. Just then, the butterfly familiar, having briefly explored the night air, fluttered back to Echidna, seamlessly resuming its guise as a hairpin in her hair.
"And who might you be?" Her tone carried a hint of curiosity, recognizing the Professors commanding presence.
McGonagall, her skepticism palpable, introduced herself with a brief, stern reply. "I am Professor Minerva McGonagall, Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, " she stated, her voice conveying an unshakable will. Her gaze continuing to scrutinize every detail of her features.
"Miss Lovegood, you and... Echidna," she said, emphasizing the name as if testing its truth, "will come with me to my office. We must discuss this matter further."
Her tone left no room for argument, echoing with the authority that came from years of stewardship over the students and secrets of Hogwarts. "There will be no exceptions," she added sternly, her eyes commanding.
As she spoke, McGonagall's gaze warily returned to Echidna, no doubt mind filled with unspoken questions and suspicions. "It is imperative that we gain full comprehension of your presence here," McGonagall continued, her tone becoming protective.
Echidna, seemingly unperturbed by the severity of the situation, nodded in acknowledgment. "As you wish, Professor Mi- … McGonagall," she replied, her voice briefly unsettled as she cuts herself off, Luna found herself wondering what could have caused such a composed and mysterious woman to momentarily lose her poise. "Does the name 'McGonagall' mean something more to her?" Luna thought, her mind teeming with possibilities. The night air seeming to still around them, the forest holding its breath as two worlds, each mysterious in its own right, met under the watchful eyes of the trees leaving even the nargles mute.
A.N. Its been 84 years, apologies for the long wait on the update I got busy with school then got invested in ff16 (may write a fic for that one day) and then focused on my fitness and self development over summer, then school again, then a older family member along with myself got covid well right before I was finishing the semester. THroughout it all I admittedly was more focused on getting more chapters out for my Nier/ASOIAF fic "A Song of Bards and Maso" . Though I never intended to leave people hanging on this fic this long. I'd say im a much more disciplined person when it comes to writing and getting things done these days. All the same writers block still happens but I aim to start updating my 3 priority fics (this being one of them) a lot more regularly.
Also been looking at videos for outlining and writing advice and such. Which definitely is helpful to make the planning phase a lot more coherent.
This story does have a general outline theres still plenty of in between moments I have to figure out.
Anyways hope everyone enjoyed this chapter. Curious what everyone thinks of both Lunas POV if it seemed in character along with the other canon character that appears here.