December 26th, 1888

Miss Mulciber,

Hello! I hope you are having fun on your holidays – did you get any good presents? I got some sweets and a few other things too. I wanted to write you sooner but I haven’t had a chance.

I’ve been trying to do some studying but it’s really boring and I keep wanting to practice spells but I’m not allowed! Does your family let you practice at home now that we’re in our second year? My awful step-father keeps saying I’m not allowed because I am not responsible but father thinks I’m ready… No one believes me, though!

Are you looking forward to returning to Hogwarts? We only have just over a week before we have to go back! I am excited for it!

Write me soon,
Saxon

  

29 December, 1888

My friend Saxon,

I must confess that this Christmas has been the most gloomy of all thus far. Mother insists that all will be well, and the house is decorated as its been every year, but I simply cannot ignore the fact that my father is wounded. As you may remember, he was involved during the Ministry disaster, but he ended up even more worse for wear than I'd imagined when I received a letter. He has only shown his face once since I arrived home, and I'm almost sure it was on accident; I barely got a greeting out before he disappeared. Mother seems well enough, but I know my Mama. I know she's worried.

He did not come down to open presents with us, which was most disappointing. I spent my final hours at Hogwarts perfecting the details on the painting I intended to give him as a gift, and it remained unwrapped by the morning's end. Even if he does see it eventually, I fear he'll throw it in the fire. It is my hypothesis that the disaster has rendered him unable to love me.

To answer your questions, I did get many nice things for Christmas. I got more hair ribbons than I can count, along with two pretty new winter dresses and other assorted items. I even received a nicer cage for Mrs. Afton, my toad, but I've already forgotten who gave it to me!

I, like you, am not allowed to practice magic outside of school—or at least I assume not. I would never ask my mother to break the law out of fear of disappointing her. I never saw Merriweather do it, anyways. I spend my time focusing on History of Magic, which I suggest you do, too.

I do long to return to Hogwarts, but not before I learn more of my father's condition. I worry about him. I am happy I will be able to see you and all of our friends soon, though.

Fondly, Flora

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The following 1 user Likes Flora Mulciber's post:1 user Likes Flora Mulciber's post
   Ophelia Devine

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January 2nd, 1889

Flora,

I do remember but he is a Ministry man and I'm sure your mother knows best! I wish I could do something to help but I can't but I am wishing all the best and I hope he will recover! You can write me as much as you need if it helps and we can talk back at school!

And I am sure it is not true that he is incapable of loving you now. I think he is probably just in pain and does not want to hurt you too but I am glad you got lots of presents!

I don't understand why we cannot practice magic - surely it would help with our studies if we can practice spells?

There's not long until we can return to school again and can see all of my friends, like you! Though I do hope your father returns to health soon.

I'm sure he will!

Write me soon,
Saxon