Back at Hogwarts, Allen was as happy as if he had reunited with an old friend after a long separation. He and Edward joked and roughhoused, and even The Grey Lady, who stood frowning because she could not enter the statue space, seemed quite endearing.
What delighted the Ravenclaw students most was the fragrant air in the Ravenclaw common room. To welcome the students back, Professor Flitwick had used magic to cultivate beautiful little trees bearing rare, exotic blossoms.
At lunch, Allen's mood became even brighter. The Ravenclaw table was laden with all kinds of tempting food.
Edward was clearly excited as well. He happily ate delicious food and chatted with Allen at the same time.
Edward went on at length about the strange experiences he had encountered while traveling during the holiday, while Allen occasionally offered a few comments.
To someone thoughtful and fond of reflection, those comments were far more fascinating than the facts themselves. At least, that was what Anna thought.
When Edward got excited, his eyebrows danced. His palms opened and clenched by turns, and his words came in a rapid stream.
Allen, on the other hand, was completely different. He appeared gentle and refined, approachable, calm, and extraordinary. Even so, the slightest movement or subtle shift in his tone conveyed more power than Edward's exaggerated gestures.
Even when the conversation touched upon some of Allen's own experiences, he merely brushed over them lightly, and people would listen without realizing how quickly he had moved on.
After eating and drinking their fill, and having a satisfying chat with his friend, Allen headed toward Ravenclaw Tower.
What could have made things even better, naturally, was a nice afternoon nap. As they passed a quiet stairwell corner, they ran straight into Harry, Ron, and Hermione.
Seeing the Rock