Chapter 12
The Hogsmead Field Trip (Part 2)
The carriages rolled to a stop at the edge of Hogsmeade, and the students began to disembark. As Qing Yi stepped out, he couldn’t help but let out a small gasp of awe. The town was a spectacle of autumnal beauty, adorned with vibrant orange and gold leaves that fluttered down from the enchanted trees lining the streets. The cobblestone paths were dotted with carved pumpkins, their faces glowing with magical lights that flickered in the crisp evening air. Banners of deep purple and black with silver lettering hung from lampposts, welcoming visitors to the Fall Festival, while whimsical ghosts floated above the rooftops, playfully darting in and out of the chimneys.
Each shop in Hogsmeade had embraced the festive spirit with its own unique decorations:
Honeydukes had its windows filled with displays of candy corn, chocolate frogs wearing tiny witch hats, and cauldrons bubbling with sugary delights. The door was framed by a garland of caramel apples, their sticky sweetness adding to the shop’s already irresistible allure.
Zonko’s Joke Shop had gone all out with animated skeletons that danced in the windows and a giant bat that swooped down over the entrance every time someone walked through the door.
The Three Broomsticks was draped in garlands of autumn leaves, with a large sign advertising their special seasonal drinks, including pumpkin spice butterbeer and cinnamon-spiced Firewhisky for the older students.
Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes was perhaps the most eye-catching of all, with its storefront covered in jack-o’-lanterns that burst into fireworks every few minutes. Inside, shelves were stacked with all sorts of Halloween-themed joke products, from Exploding Eyeballs to Fanged Frisbees.
Qing Yi, despite his earlier mood, couldn't help but smile at the sight. "Wow," he breathed, taking in the festive atmosphere. "It's beautiful."
His eyes were then drawn to Madam Puddifoot's Tea Shop, with its cozy, romantic atmosphere, twinkling fairy lights, and floating candles. A mischievous smirk played on his lips as he glanced back at Lan Xichen and Jiang Yanli.
"Oh, look," Qing Yi said, his voice dripping with sly amusement. "There's a perfect store for you lovebirds. Why don't you two go enjoy a quiet, romantic moment amid all this festive chaos?"
Both Lan Xichen and Jiang Yanli stiffened slightly, a faint blush creeping up their necks—not out of embarrassment, but from the unexpected awkwardness of the comment. Lan Xichen’s expression shifted, his usual gentle demeanor replaced with a hint of irritation.
"Qing Yi." Lan Xichen said, his voice uncharacteristically firm.
Qing Yi's lips curled into a sly smirk, his emerald eyes glinting with mischief. He waved his hand in an exaggerated, dismissive gesture, as if shooing away the tension he'd created. "A joke, a joke," he said, his voice light and lilting.
"A very poor joke," Lan Xichen replied, his voice gentle but with an unmistakable edge of annoyance.
Qing Yi recoiled slightly, surprised by Lan Xichen's reaction. He'd never seen the usually serene Ravenclaw show even a hint of irritation. The realization that he might have genuinely upset Lan Xichen hit him like a Bludger to the stomach.
"Sorry..." Qing Yi mumbled, his earlier bravado evaporating. He cast a confused, slightly hurt look at Lan Xichen, unused to being on the receiving end of his disapproval.
The uncomfortable silence that followed was mercifully broken by Wei Wuxian's exuberant voice cutting through the tension. His eyes sparkled with excitement as he pointed at each decorated storefront, seemingly oblivious to the awkward moment he had interrupted.
"Look at that! And there! Oh, we have to go to Zonko's first!" Wei Wuxian exclaimed, his enthusiasm infectious. Without waiting for a response, he grabbed Lan Wangji's arm and started pulling him towards the joke shop, effectively dispersing the lingering discomfort among the group.
"Wait up, Wei Ying!" called out Marcus Flintlock, the Slytherin second-year partnered with Wei Wuxian, as he hurried to catch up.
"Lan Wangji, wait for me!" Elara Greenwood, the Hufflepuff second-year partnered with Lan Wangji, added, trailing behind them.
Jiang Cheng turned to Lan Xichen, his eyes bright with excitement. "Senior Lan, can we check out Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes? I heard they've got some wicked new Halloween products."
Lan Xichen's expression softened, the earlier irritation melting away and replaced by his usual warmth as he turned to Jiang Cheng. "That sounds interesting," he nodded, smiling gently. "I've always been curious about their inventions."
Meanwhile, Jiang Yanli turned to Qing Yi. "How about you, Qing Yi? Would you like to join us at Weasleys'?"
Qing Yi, shaking off his earlier misstep, responded with a small smile playing on his lips. "Actually, I was hoping to stop by my mother's shop first. Koh's Elixirs & Enchanted Herbs. But you guys go ahead, I'll catch up with you later."
Jiang Cheng's jaw dropped. "Wait, what? Your mom has a store here too?"
Lan Xichen, intrigued, looked over at the shop. “Koh’s Elixirs & Enchanted Herbs? That sounds impressive. What’s your family known for, Qing Yi?”
Qing Yi felt a swell of pride as he explained. “My family specializes in potions and herbs. We have stores all over the wizarding world, and my mother runs an extensive herbology forest where she grows rare herbs. The Hogsmeade shop is one of our busiest locations. We sell everything from healing potions to rare ingredients.”
"Potions and rare herbs, you say?" Jiang Cheng's eyes lit up with curiosity. "That actually sounds pretty interesting. Mind if I tag along?"
Qing Yi hesitated, realizing this meant he'd still be stuck with both Lan Xichen and Jiang Yanli. He had hoped to split up, but Jiang Cheng's enthusiasm was hard to resist.
Jiang Yanli, overhearing the conversation, chimed in. "Oh, I'd love to see it too! I've always been fascinated by advanced potion-making."
Lan Xichen nodded in agreement. "It sounds like a unique opportunity. Shall we all go together?"
Qing Yi suppressed an eye roll, forcing a smile. "Sure, why not? The more, the merrier," he said, trying to keep the sarcasm out of his voice. Internally, he steeled himself. I won't let their presence ruin my day in Hogsmeade, he thought determinedly.
As they set off towards Koh’s Elixirs & Enchanted Herbs, the group marveled at the decorations lining the streets. Magical jack-o'-lanterns floated above their heads, cackling and telling jokes to passersby. A group of enchanted scarecrows danced a jig in front of Madam Puddifoot's Tea Shop, much to the delight of giggling couples.
"So, Qing Yi," Jiang Cheng asked as they walked, "what kind of stuff does your mom's shop sell? Any cool potions we should check out?"
Qing Yi's eyes lit up, momentarily forgetting his annoyance. "Oh, all sorts! We've got everything from basic healing potions to really advanced stuff. And the herb selection is amazing - some plants you can't find anywhere else outside of the Forbidden Forest or even the hidden valleys of magical Ireland!"
"Ooh, like what?" Jiang Yanli asked, genuinely interested.
"Well," Qing Yi began, warming to the subject, "there's Moonshine Mistletoe, which only blooms during a full moon and is great for love potions. And Whispering Willowbark, which can actually tell you secrets if you brew it right."
As they approached Koh's Elixirs & Enchanted Herbs, its unique facade stood out even among the festive decorations of Hogsmeade. The shop's windows seemed to shimmer with an otherworldly light, filled with bubbling cauldrons of various colors and mesmerizing displays of rare magical artifacts. Vines of enchanted plants curled around the ornate doorframe, their leaves changing colors in a hypnotic pattern. The very air around the shop seemed to sparkle with magic, hinting at the wonders that awaited inside.
"Wow," Lan Xichen breathed, clearly impressed. "This is quite something."
Qing Yi couldn't help but grin, his earlier frustrations momentarily forgotten in the face of his family's legacy. "Just wait until you see inside," he said, pushing open the door with a flourish.
As the group entered Enchanted Elixirs and Herbs, they were instantly transported to what felt like an elven apothecary from ancient tales. A powerful charm suffused the air, making even the most skeptical visitor believe in magic anew. Soft, golden light filtered through a canopy of shimmering leaves, illuminating the shop's treasure trove of potions and herbs.
Elegantly twisted wooden shelves lined the walls, their branches curling to cradle an impressive array of colorful vials and bottles. Shimmering potions in every hue imaginable caught the light - from vibrant reds of love potions to the swirling silvers of liquid luck. Crystal jars filled with rare, dried herbs and glittering powders sat alongside freshly cut magical plants, their leaves still dewey.
Despite the shop being packed with Hogwarts students and local witches and wizards, an enchantment allowed everyone to move about comfortably. The air buzzed with excited chatter and the subtle hum of magic, yet a sense of tranquility prevailed. Rare, living herbs grew in small, self-contained ecosystems throughout the store, their leaves rustling in an ethereal breeze.
Floating, glowing labels hovered above each section, guiding customers through the vast selection of healing elixirs, beautification brews, and powerful magical concoctions. The floor resembled a gently flowing stream with illusory fish darting between customers' feet, adding to the fantastical atmosphere.
Even in the bustle, the shop's perfectly organized, magical ambiance captivated all who entered, making them feel as if they'd stepped into a wondrous fantasy land of limitless magical possibilities.
A cheerful voice rang out, "Welcome, Hogwarts students! Here for your field trip, I see?" The shop manager, a woman with kind eyes and graying hair tied in a neat bun, approached them with a warm smile. Her eyes lit up as she recognized a familiar face. "Qing Yi! What a delightful surprise!"
Qing Yi beamed, embracing the woman. "Aunt Mei! It's so good to see you. How are you? How's business?"
Aunt Mei chuckled, her eyes twinkling. "Oh, busy as a niffler in a jewelry store! We can barely keep up with demand. Why, just the other day, Headmistress McGonagall herself stopped by for some rare ingredients. And your mother's here today, restocking our shelves."
Qing Yi nodded, then turned to his friends. "Feel free to look around, everyone. If you have any questions, just ask one of the assistants. They're as knowledgeable as a library full of herbology books!"
As the group dispersed, Lan Xichen approached Qing Yi, an impressed look on his face. "I must say, Qing Yi, your family's reputation is well-deserved. Wangji mentioned that you excel in Potions and Herbology. Now I see why - it's in your blood, isn't it?"
Qing Yi felt his face heat up, a mix of pride and embarrassment coloring his cheeks. "T-thanks," he stammered. "I guess it's just second nature to us Kohs. My mother’s the real expert.”
Before Lan Xichen could respond, Jiang Yanli appeared at his elbow, her eyes shining with excitement. "Xichen, did you see the Moonlight Mistletoe extract? It's supposed to be incredibly rare! Come look!" She tugged on his arm, pulling him away.
Qing Yi's moment of fluster evaporated like spilled Vanishing Potion. He turned away, muttering under his breath, Get a grip, Qing Yi. They're clearly a couple. Don't get flustered over one little compliment!
As he walked further into the shop, he spotted his mother, Madam Koh, chatting with a small group of Hogwarts students near the back of the store. Her presence always exuded warmth and authority, and she seemed to be in her element, explaining the properties of various potions to the attentive students.
However, what caught Qing Yi’s attention was the sight of Jin Zixuan, standing off to the side with a somewhat cold expression, his gaze fixed on Qing Yi. Beside him was Jing Shi, who was smiling warmly at Madam Koh, clearly engaged in the conversation. But Jin Zixuan’s eyes never left Qing Yi, and the unfriendly stare was impossible to miss.
Qing Yi blinked, taken aback by the hostility. "What's his problem?" he wondered aloud. "Did I accidentally turn his robes pink in Charms class or something?"
Little did Qing Yi know, Jin Zixuan had been tailing them since they arrived at Hogsmeade, his eyes fixed on Jiang Yanli like a lovesick crup. The boy's jealousy was practically radiating off him in waves, strong enough to make nearby Mood-Detection Potions turn a vibrant green.
As Qing Yi navigated through the shop, dodging animated stirring rods and floating bottles, he couldn't help but feel like he was stuck in the middle of a very confusing, very magical soap opera. "Maybe," he thought wryly, "I should ask Mom if we have a potion for untangling teenage drama. We'd make a fortune!"
His thoughts were interrupted when he caught sight of his sister, Jing Shi, waving at him from across the store. Her unusual violet eyes sparkled in contrast to her silvery-white hair. Jing Shi’s enthusiastic smile was a bright contrast to the bizarre tension that had been following him all day. Qing Yi found himself smiling back, despite everything, and decided to head over to her. At least with Jing Shi, things were straightforward.
Madam Yu Yan, who had her back to Qing Yi as she described the various potions to the Hogwarts students, noticed Jing Shi’s excited waving. She turned, her face lighting up at the sight of her son. Her own pale, ethereal beauty was mirrored in both Jing Shi and Qing Yi's features - the same luminous silver hair and fair skin that marked them as part of the unique Koh lineage, though Yu Yan's eyes were a striking blue while Qing Yi's were a vivid emerald. With a warm smile, she reached out and pulled Qing Yi into a tight hug as soon as he was close enough.
"There he is! My only son, my little Slytherin snake," Yu Yan said, her voice filled with affection. “I was wondering where you were, Qing Yi. I’ve only seen your sisters so far.”
Qing Yi’s face flushed with embarrassment as he squirmed slightly in her embrace, trying to avoid the kisses she was attempting to plant on his cheeks. “Mom, stop it,” he muttered, glancing around nervously at the other students who were watching with amused smiles. “Not in front of my friends…”
Yu Yan chuckled softly and finally released him, though her eyes still sparkled with motherly pride. She then turned her attention to the Hogwarts kids who were standing nearby. “Feel free to shop around, everyone. And since we have Hogwarts students visiting today, all our wares are 20% off!”
The students’ eyes lit up at the mention of the discount, and with bright smiles, they dispersed to explore the shop, leaving Jing Shi and Qing Yi alone with their mother.
Once the crowd thinned, Yu Yan looked at Qing Yi with a gentle smile. “So, how’s your first year at Hogwarts been? Any trouble?”
Qing Yi shook his head, trying to sound casual. “It’s been alright. Nothing too bad.”
Yu Yan laughed, a tinkling sound like wind chimes. "Oh, you are your mother's son! I was a Slytherin too, you know. Quite the surprise when you followed in my footsteps. I thought you'd all be Hufflepuffs like your father."
Qing Yi smirked playfully. “I guess you and I are the rotten eggs of the family.”
"Nonsense!" Yu Yan exclaimed, eyes twinkling. "Everyone knows Slytherin is the best house at Hogwarts."
Qing Yi nodded, his smirk turning into a genuine smile. “Facts.”
Yu Yan hugged them both, planting a kiss on Jing Shi's forehead. Qing Yi ducked, narrowly avoiding the lipstick mark of motherly affection. "Alright, my little potion ingredients, I'm off to Diagon Alley. Try not to turn anyone into toads while I'm gone!"
“Bye, Mom!” Jing Shi and Qing Yi said in unison, both smiling as they watched her leave the shop.
As soon as Yu Yan was out of sight, Qing Yi turned to his sister with a curious look. “By the way, Jing Shi, is that kid your first-year partner?” He nodded towards Jin Zixuan, who was still lingering nearby, his gaze fixed on Qing Yi.
Jing Shi followed his gaze and nodded. “Yeah, that’s Jin Zixuan. Why do you ask?”
Qing Yi’s expression darkened slightly as he leaned closer to his sister. “What’s his deal? He’s been checkmating me this whole time.”
Jing Shi blinked, clearly puzzled. “He has? I didn’t notice… I actually have no idea why he’d do that. Are you sure you’re not imagining it?”
Qing Yi gave his sister a pointed look, raising an eyebrow in disbelief. “Imagining things? Seriously, Jing Shi? You can’t see those laser beams he’s been shooting at me?”
To emphasize his point, Qing Yi locked eyes with Jin Zixuan, who immediately returned the glare with equal intensity. The two boys stood there, locked in what could only be described as a silent staring contest, each trying to out-glare the other.
Jing Shi, watching the bizarre interaction, couldn’t help but find it both confusing and slightly amusing. “Wow, that’s… really weird,” she muttered, pointing back and forth between the two boys. “Okay, why not just go over there and ask him what his problem is?”
Qing Yi considered her suggestion for a moment, his glare never wavering. “You know what, I’m actually going to do that.”
Without breaking eye contact, Qing Yi began marching over to Jin Zixuan, his glare still as fierce as ever. Jing Shi watched in bewildered amusement as her brother approached Jin Zixuan with all the determination of someone about to settle a long-standing rivalry. She had no idea what was going to happen next, but one thing was for sure—this was going to be interesting.
Qing Yi marched straight over to Jin Zixuan, his expression a mix of curiosity and irritation. “Alright, what’s your deal? Why are you looking at me like I just stole your Gringotts vault?”
Jin Zixuan blinked, momentarily caught off guard by Qing Yi’s bluntness. “What? I’m not—” He huffed, crossing his arms. “I’m just...watching you, that’s all.”
Qing Yi rolled his eyes, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “Yeah, because that’s not creepy at all. Come on, out with it. What’s your problem?”
Jin Zixuan glared at him, then sighed, deciding to just say it. “Fine. I’m just... annoyed. It’s nothing to do with you.”
Qing Yi raised an eyebrow, leaning in slightly. “Annoyed? At what, my face? I know it’s devastatingly handsome, but seriously, take a number.”
Jin Zixuan scowled, trying to find the right words. “No, not your face! It’s... it’s...” He hesitated, his face turning red as he struggled to say it.
Qing Yi raised an eyebrow, leaning in with annoyance. “It’s what? Spit it out, man.”
Jin Zixuan looked away, clearly embarrassed. “It’s... Jiang Yanli.”
Qing Yi blinked, then tilted his head. “What about Jiang Yanli?”
Jin Zixuan hesitated, his face turning an impressive shade of red. He opened his mouth to respond but no words came out, just an awkward sort of splutter. Qing Yi raised an eyebrow, watching the flustered Gryffindor struggle to get his words out.
And then it clicked.
“Ohhhh,” Qing Yi said, drawing the word out dramatically as a wide grin spread across his face. “You’ve got a thing for her, haven’t you? Well, this just got interesting.” He let out a short laugh, thoroughly amused. “How adorable!”
Jin Zixuan’s blush deepened, and he glared at Qing Yi, clearly not appreciating the teasing. “It’s not adorable! And keep your voice down, will you?”
“Bad news for you, pal,” Qing Yi interrupted with a smirk. “She’s dating Lan Xichen. They’re basically the Hogwarts power couple now.”
Jin Zixuan’s eyes widened in shock. “What? Since when? How come I haven’t heard anyone talk about it?”
Qing Yi chuckled, his tone smug. “Why does everyone need to talk about them? Are they that popular?” He shrugged nonchalantly, reveling in his Slytherin snobbery.
Jin Zixuan looked at him like he’d just asked if water was wet. “Are you even attending Hogwarts? Everyone talks about couples here! And I haven’t heard a single word about those two.”
Qing Yi rolled his eyes again, shaking his head. “Geez, you Gryffindors are slow. Do you need everyone to confirm it before you believe it? Just look over there.” He pointed towards Lan Xichen and Jiang Yanli, who were standing close together, laughing softly like they didn’t have a care in the world. “I mean, can’t you tell by just looking at them? Even a blind troll could see it.”
Jin Zixuan stared at the pair, his shoulders slumping in disappointment. He didn’t say a word, just kept looking at them like they were the last piece of pie he couldn’t have.
Qing Yi, sensing the mood, slung an arm over Jin Zixuan’s shoulder and patted him in a way that was supposed to be comforting. “There, there. I’d give up if I were you. You can’t compete with The Lan Xichen—one of the Twin Jades of the Lan family, the perfect Prefect of Ravenclaw, and their star Quidditch player.” He sighed dramatically. “Just let it go, buddy.”
As Qing Yi patted Jin Zixuan on the shoulder, he suddenly noticed something—where they were standing. They were smack in the middle of the love potion aisle, and in Jin Zixuan’s hand was a bottle of Lady Blossom, one of the strongest love potions in existence. And worse, Jin Zixuan was gripping it so tightly it looked like it might shatter any second.
“Uh... dude,” Qing Yi said cautiously, eyeing the bottle. “You might want to loosen your hold on that bottle... it might bust if you keep twisting it like that.”
But Jin Zixuan, lost in his disappointment, didn’t hear him. He turned to Qing Yi, desperation in his eyes. “Are you sure those two are together?” As he asked, he twisted the bottle even tighter.
Qing Yi, now in full panic mode, tried to pry the bottle from Jin Zixuan's hands. "I don't know! Why don't you go ask them? But for Merlin's sake, let go of the bottle! You're going to bust it!"
Too late. The force of Jin Zixuan’s grip was too much, and the bottle shattered between them. Qing Yi immediately exclaimed, “Crap!” and immediately covered his nose, trying not to inhale the potion’s scent. But Jin Zixuan wasn’t so lucky—he inhaled it all in one go.
Qing Yi watched in horror as the Lady's Blossom potion took effect. He remembered its crucial property: the affected person would fall in love with the first person they saw. Time seemed to slow as Jin Zixuan's potion-clouded eyes focused, landing squarely on Qing Yi.
Jin Zixuan's expression transformed from confusion to adoration in an instant. His disappointed look melted into a dreamy, love-struck gaze.
"Oh boy...," Qing Yi muttered, realizing he'd just become the unwitting object of Jin Zixuan's magically-induced affection. "This is not good. Definitely not good."
Jin Zixuan blinked slowly, a goofy smile spreading across his face. “Koh... you’re... so...”
Qing Yi held up a hand, already feeling the headache coming on. “Don’t. Just... don’t say it.”
Jin Zixuan stepped closer, a dopey smile on his face. "Hey Koh... has your hair always been this beautifully silver? It's like moonlight woven into silk..."
Qing Yi grimaced, looking around desperately for help. "Uh, thanks? Listen, Zixuan, you don't really feel this way. It's just the potion talking."
But Jin Zixuan wasn't listening. He was too busy composing an impromptu poem. "Oh Koh, your eyes so green, the fairest Slytherin I've ever seen..."
Qing Yi's face contorted in a mixture of horror and disgust, as if he'd just eaten a particularly foul-flavored Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Bean. He took a few careful steps backward, his hands raised defensively, looking like he'd rather wrestle with the Whomping Willow than hear another line of Jin Zixuan's love-struck poetry
"Ugh, please stop," Qing Yi groaned, his voice strained. "Hey, Jin, calm down. You like Yanli, remember? Not me. It's just the potion talking... And for Merlin's sake, stop with the rhymes!"
But Jin Zixuan advanced with each step Qing Yi took, his gaze fixed and dreamy. Qing Yi glanced around frantically, muttering, "Oh boy... This is not good."
Seizing his chance, Qing Yi darted out of the aisle, weaving between startled customers.
"Koh, wait!" Jin Zixuan called out, his voice echoing through the shop. "Don't run from our destined love!"
"Ahh, stop! Don't say that!" Qing Yi yelled back, dodging a stack of cauldrons. "This is weirder than finding Peeves in the prefects' bathroom!"
Their chase led them up and down the store, leaving a trail of confused students and toppled merchandise in their wake.
Meanwhile, near the exotic herbs section, Jiang Cheng approached Jiang Yanli, a mischievous glint in his eye. He held up a strange, glowing plant. "Check out this Tickle-Tongued Tangle-root. Wei Ying won't know what hit him!"
Jiang Yanli frowned, concern etching her features. "A-Cheng, be careful with that. Too much and Wei Ying might end up tap-dancing on the ceiling of the hospital wing."
Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes, but his smirk softened. "Relax, Jie. I know what I'm doing. I'm not completely reckless... most of the time."
Suddenly, Qing Yi burst into their conversation, his silver hair disheveled and his breathing ragged. "Guys..." he panted, bending over to catch his breath. "I gotta go. We gotta move. I mean, I gotta go."
Lan Xichen, who had been examining a shelf of shimmering potions nearby, turned at the commotion. His usual serene expression gave way to concern as he reached out to steady Qing Yi. "Qing Yi, are you alright? You look like you've just outrun a herd of Hippogriffs."
Qing Yi's eyes darted around nervously as he tried to form a coherent sentence. "I... I... well... oh boy. Hahaha. How do I explain this without sounding completely bonkers?"
Before he could continue, Jin Zixuan appeared at the end of the aisle, his eyes lighting up as he spotted Qing Yi. "My emerald-eyed prince! There you are!"
Qing Yi yelped in panic, diving behind Jiang Cheng and gripping his sweater tightly. Jiang Cheng stumbled, caught off guard by suddenly becoming a human shield.
"What in Merlin's name—" Jiang Cheng started, twisting his head to look at Qing Yi cowering behind him.
Jiang Yanli's face brightened at the sight of Jin Zixuan. "Zixuan! In a potion shop? I thought you hated this stuff."
But Jin Zixuan barely registered her presence, his gaze fixed solely on Qing Yi. He took a step forward, arms outstretched. "My love, why do you hide? Let me bask in your radiant presence!"
Jiang Cheng's eyes widened in confusion and mild horror. "Qing Yi," he hissed, trying to pry the other boy's fingers from his sweater, "what did you do to Jin Zixuan? He looks like he's been hit by a Confundus Charm and a Babbling Beverage at the same time!"
Qing Yi, still firmly attached to Jiang Cheng's back, let out a nervous laugh. "Funny story, actually. Remember those love potions we saw earlier?"
Understanding dawned on Jiang Cheng's face, quickly followed by exasperation. "Oh, for the love of—"
Jin Zixuan lunged forward, trying to reach around Jiang Cheng to get to Qing Yi. "Give me Koh! My heart yearns for his touch!"
Qing Yi yelped and spun Jiang Cheng around, using him as a barrier. Jiang Cheng, caught in the middle, found himself being twirled like a reluctant dance partner.
"Qing Yi, let go of me!" Jiang Cheng protested, his voice rising in pitch. "I'm not your personal bodyguard against love-struck idiots!"
Qing Yi, still gripping Jiang Cheng tightly and maneuvering him to block Jin Zixuan's attempts, responded breathlessly, "No can do right now, Jiang Cheng. I'm really sorry, but I need you as a barrier!"
Lan Xichen watched the scene unfold, his eyebrows rising higher with each passing second. A mix of concern and amusement played across his features as he observed Qing Yi's desperate attempts to avoid Jin Zixuan.
"What is going on here?" Lan Xichen asked, a hint of laughter in his voice despite his best efforts to maintain composure.
Jiang Cheng, still being spun around by Qing Yi, called out desperately, "Help! Jie! Senior Lan! I'm getting dizzier than a Cornish Pixie in a whirlwind!"
Finally, Lan Xichen and Jiang Yanli stepped in, gently but firmly separating the trio. Yanli held onto Jin Zixuan's arm, while Lan Xichen placed a steadying hand on Jiang Cheng's shoulder, subtly positioning himself between Qing Yi and Jin Zixuan.
"Alright, let's all take a breath," Lan Xichen said, his voice calm but tinged with curiosity. "Qing Yi, care to explain why Jin Zixuan seems to have developed a sudden and intense... admiration for you?"
Qing Yi, still half-hidden behind Jiang Cheng, explained breathlessly, "There was a tiny accident with a love potion. And when I say tiny, I mean catastrophic. Jin Zixuan thinks I'm his soulmate now. It's temporary... I hope. Unless someone's got a time-turner handy?"
Jiang Yanli's eyes widened in surprise, her gaze darting between Qing Yi and Jin Zixuan. "Oh my... That explains a lot."
Suddenly, Jin Zixuan broke free from Jiang Yanli’s hold and lunged at Qing Yi, wrapping him in a bear hug and sending them both to the floor. "Qing Yi, my love! I adore you more than Filch adores his cat!"
As Jin Zixuan attempted to plant a kiss on his cheek, Qing Yi squirmed like a Flobberworm on a hot plate. "Stop! Stop!" he yelped, pushing at Jin Zixuan's face. "I don't like boys! I mean... I don't like... I... YOU'RE NOT MY TYPE! I prefer my admirers less clingy and more... sane!"
Lan Xichen and Jiang Cheng, snapping out of their stunned silence, moved to separate the two. Lan Xichen's usual grace was somewhat compromised as he tried to pry Jin Zixuan's arms from around Qing Yi, a mix of concern and poorly concealed amusement on his face.
Qing Yi, finally free, scrambled to put some distance between himself and Jin Zixuan. "Yanli-Jie!" he said as he grabbed onto her arm, "I think it's time we continue our tour of Hogsmeade. Preferably somewhere far, far away from here."
Jiang Yanli nodded, still looking bewildered. "Yes, that might be best. For now, let's keep these two separated."
Lan Xichen and Jiang Cheng nodded, still restraining the love-struck Jin Zixuan.
"Merlin's beard, this guy is stronger than a troll with a toothache!" Jiang Cheng grunted, struggling to keep his hold.
As Qing Yi and Jiang Yanli turned to leave, Jin Zixuan broke free once more, his potion-addled brain focused solely on reaching Qing Yi. "Wait! Don't leave me, my silver-haired serpent of love!"
He managed to grab one of Qing Yi's arms, while Jiang Yanli, reacting quickly, seized the other. "Let go of him, Zixuan!" she insisted, her usual gentle demeanor giving way to determination. "This isn't you!"
"Qing Yi! My emerald dream! My Slytherin sweetheart!" Jin Zixuan cried, pulling Qing Yi towards him.
Caught in the middle of this impromptu tug-of-war, Qing Yi yelped in discomfort. "Stop! Stop! Oww! You’re gonna rip my arms off!”
Jiang Cheng, watching the scene unfold, couldn't help but let out a snort of laughter despite his concern. "It's like watching a live-action soap opera. 'The Bold and the Bewitched: Hogsmeade Edition'."
Lan Xichen, realizing the situation was escalating, pulled out his wand. With a fluid motion and a softly spoken "Stupefy!", Jin Zixuan crumpled to the ground, snoring peacefully.
As silence fell over the group, Qing Yi sank to the floor, relief washing over his features. "Why me?" he groaned, running a hand through his silver hair. "Is this karma for that time I 'accidentally' turned all the Gryffindor banners green?"
Lan Xichen offered a hand to help Qing Yi up, still smiling. “I’m starting to think the universe just enjoys giving you a hard time,” he said lightly.
Qing Yi accepted the hand and stood up, sighing. “Yeah, well, the universe needs to take a break. I can’t handle much more of this.”
The group stood in stunned silence, surrounded by the aftermath of their chaotic encounter. Lan Xichen, with a gentle smile that hinted at both concern and a touch of amusement, glanced over at Qing Yi. "Well," he said, his voice light with a hint of humor, "I dare say this has been the most eventful Hogsmeade trip in recent memory."
Jiang Cheng, still catching his breath, nodded in agreement. "Yeah, and I thought the time Wei Wuxian set loose a crate of Pygmy Puffs in Honeydukes was exciting."
As they began to clean up the mess and figure out what to do with the unconscious Jin Zixuan, the reality of their situation slowly sank in. This was going to be a Hogsmeade trip none of them would forget anytime soon.
The four of them stood in a circle, looking down at the stunned Jin Zixuan sprawled on the floor of Koh's Elixirs & Enchanted Herbs.
Jiang Cheng broke the silence, scratching his head. "So... what are we gonna do with Lover Boy here? We can't just leave him looking like he's had one too many Sleeping Draughts."
Qing Yi's eyes lit up suddenly, and he started backing away. "I've got an idea..."
Lan Xichen reached out, gently catching Qing Yi's sleeve. "Qing Yi, where are you going?”
Qing Yi grinned sheepishly. "I'm gonna go look for the antidote. I'm sure we have it somewhere in the store. Probably next to the 'Oops, I Accidentally Unleashed Chaos' section."
As Qing Yi scurried off, the others exchanged amused glances. He found Jing Shi near the register, helping a store assistant deal with a customer trying to return a mislabeled "Instant Abs" potion that had given them instant cabbages instead.
"Sis," Qing Yi interrupted, "we've got a tiny problem. Well, a Jin Zixuan-sized problem, to be exact."
Jing Shi turned, her eyes narrowing as she took in Qing Yi's disheveled appearance. "What did you do?"
After Qing Yi explained the situation, Jing Shi let out a long-suffering sigh. "Great. Now I'm possibly going to get in trouble with Professor Granger for not keeping an eye on my first-year pair. She'll probably make me write lines with one of those horrible Blood Quills... oh wait, wrong era."
Qing Yi laughed awkwardly, running a hand through his silver hair. "Sorry, sis... Anyway, do you know if there's an antidote? Preferably something that works faster than Professor Slughorn can say 'crystallized pineapple'?"
Jing Shi rolled her eyes but couldn't hide a small smile. "Follow me, you little troublemaker."
She led him to a secluded corner of the shop, pulling out a delicate crystal bottle filled with a shimmering, opalescent liquid. The label read "Heartbreak Haze: For When Love Stinks."
"This should do the trick," Jing Shi explained. "It's a perfume that does the opposite of a love potion. Instead of making people fall in love, it makes them temporarily despise you. It's designed only to counter love potions, though, so don't go spraying it willy-nilly at your enemies."
Qing Yi took the bottle, examining it with a mix of awe and relief. "Brilliant! You're a lifesaver, sis. I owe you one... or maybe ten, considering how often I end up in these situations."
Returning to the group, Qing Yi handed the antidote to Jing Shi. "She says she's got it handled here. Jin Zixuan will take the antidote when he wakes up. Hopefully, he won't remember any of this, or I might have to consider transferring to Beauxbatons."
With that, the four of them left the store, Lan Xichen, Jiang Yanli, and Jiang Cheng laden with potions and herbs they'd purchased. Qing Yi, however, was empty-handed, still trying to process the traumatic event with Jin Zixuan.
As they walked down the cobblestone street, Qing Yi trailed behind the group, his emerald eyes unfocused and distant. The events in the shop kept replaying in his mind like a broken record, each recollection making him shudder slightly. Jin Zixuan's love-struck face, the chase through the store, the awkward tug-of-war - it all swirled in his thoughts, leaving him in a daze.
He was so lost in his disturbing memories that the world around him seemed to fade away. The chatter of his companions, the bustle of Hogsmeade, even the path before him became a blur. As a result, he didn't notice the sturdy lamppost looming directly in his path.
Just before impact, a gentle but firm hand grabbed his arm, smoothly guiding him aside. Qing Yi blinked rapidly, the world suddenly coming back into focus as he found himself face-to-face with a concerned Lan Xichen.
"That was close," Qing Yi breathed, his heart racing from the near miss. "Thank you, Senior Lan. I almost became one with that lamppost."
Lan Xichen's smile widened, a teasing glint in his eyes. "Are you so dazed by Jin Zixuan's declarations of love that you can't watch where you're going? I must admit, I'm a little hurt, Qing Yi. Here I thought I was your favorite."
Qing Yi's face flushed a brilliant red, his eyes widening in horror. "W-what? No! I mean, yes! I mean... oh, Merlin's pants, I don't even know what I mean anymore." He buried his face in his hands, groaning. "Can we pretend this whole day never happened? I'd rather wrestle the Giant Squid than go through that again."
Lan Xichen chuckled, patting Qing Yi's shoulder comfortingly. "Don't worry, your secret love affair with Jin Zixuan is safe with us. Though I must say, I've never seen someone run so fast from a suitor before. You could give our Quidditch team a run for their money."
Jiang Cheng snorted, unable to contain his amusement. "Yeah, Qing Yi. Who knew you were such a heartbreaker? Poor Jin Zixuan will be writing sad poetry for weeks."
Jiang Yanli, ever the peacemaker, interjected with a gentle smile. "Alright, that's enough teasing. How about we all go to The Three Broomsticks for some butterbeer? I think we could all use a drink after... whatever that was."
As they made their way to the pub, Qing Yi couldn't help but smile despite his embarrassment. It had been a chaotic day, but surrounded by his friends (and one very amused Lan Xichen), he realized that maybe, just maybe, this Hogsmeade trip wasn't so bad after all. Even if he did have to fend off the affections of a love-potioned Jin Zixuan in the process.
****