Lessons of the Past, Hopes for the Future
The halls of Hogwarts felt different than any palace or kingdom Reiko, Syaoran, or Tranquility had ever known. The ancient magic woven into its very foundations hummed with a presence unlike anything else, and the presence of the four Founders only added to its mystique.
Helga Hufflepuff had invited them to one of her more practical lessons—one that focused on teamwork, endurance, and, in her words, “getting along before they kill each other.”
Endymion stood beside his four guardians, all of them watching as the training session unfolded. Tranquility, Syaoran, and Reiko had been paired against Endymion and two of his knights in a strategy-based sparring match.
“You three need to work together,” Helga called out, arms folded. “Not just as individuals. I know you can hold your own, but can you trust each other when it truly counts?”
Tranquility cast a glance at Reiko, who raised an eyebrow.
“We trust each other,” she said.
Helga smiled. “Then show me.”
With that, the match began.
Syaoran darted forward, his movements sharp and calculated, immediately engaging Endymion in close combat. Tranquility moved with fluid precision, countering one of the knights with well-timed strikes. Reiko, meanwhile, took a more strategic role, observing, analyzing, and using her magic to manipulate the terrain to their advantage.
The battle was fast-paced, neither side giving an inch. But it wasn’t about victory—it was about understanding.
By the time the match ended, both sides were breathless but grinning.
Helga clapped. “Much better. Now, try not to let your egos get in the way next time.”
From the sidelines, Godric Gryffindor chuckled. “You’d think she was talking to me and Salazar.”
Salazar smirked. “If only you listened as well as they do.”
Tranquility glanced at Reiko, catching her gaze. She smiled, and for a moment, everything else faded.
Syaoran, standing beside Yue, exhaled. “That was exhausting.”
Yue handed him a water flask, their fingers brushing briefly. “You did well.”
Syaoran blinked before smirking. “Coming from you, that means a lot.”
The sun was setting, casting golden light over the castle grounds. Their training would continue, their responsibilities would only grow, but for now, they stood together—stronger than before.