Easter 1997

The last Sunday of March: Easter.

Loren sat beneath a tree by the lake, reclining in a lounge chair transfigured from branches.

March was drawing to an end. The chill had completely faded, and the weather was growing warmer by the day. The spring sunlight was gentle and pleasant, warming him through. Loren wore only a wizarding robe over his shirt, with a single button fastened to keep it from hanging fully open. He had no necktie on, his posture lazy and relaxed.

The sunlight fell across the lake in a brilliant sheet of gold. A breeze stirred the surface, sending ripples spreading out and making the glittering water dance, slightly dazzling to the eye. He could not help shifting his gaze toward the shore.

The ancient Giant Squid happened to extend a tentacle from the water. A Gryffindor First Year cautiously approached and lightly touched one of its suckers. The Giant Squid did not take offense; the tip of its tentacle swayed gently in response to the little wizard's greeting, and the watching crowd immediately burst into cheers.

For a moment, it felt as though he could see himself back when he had first arrived at school as a First Year.

"Hermione."

"Hmm?"

"Nothing. I just wanted to call you."

"..."

Hermione glanced at him, then lowered her head and continued flipping through the journal.

The girl was dressed much like him: a regulation shirt beneath a deep black wizarding robe. She wore no necktie, but every button was fastened. Sitting cross-legged on the grass, she had a finely printed booklet laid before her, her exposed ankles pale and delicate.

The cover was coated in a glossy film, brightly colored and reflective beneath the sunlight. Unlike other wizarding magazines, its overly exquisite illustrations did not move. Supposedly, it had