Kapitel 56: 56. A new connection
Lunch concluded with a warm atmosphere of camaraderie and anticipation for the afternoon's lessons. As the group dispersed, Luna led Apollyon away from the dining area, her steps brisk with excitement. They walked towards a part of the sanctuary that was lush and vibrant, filled with the sounds of various magical creatures.
"Our first stop is with the Mooncalves," Luna announced as they approached a secluded enclosure bathed in gentle moonlight, despite the afternoon sun. "Mooncalves are incredibly shy but deeply expressive once they trust you. They have a unique way of communicating through their movements and the patterns they create with their footsteps under the moonlight."
As they entered the enclosure, Apollyon's eyes adjusted to the light, and she saw several small, pale creatures with large, round eyes looking curiously back at her. Their eyes glowed softly in the moonlit environment, creating an ethereal atmosphere.
"Observe their behavior carefully," Luna instructed, her voice soft but clear. "See how they move and interact with each other? Each motion is a part of their communication. They're especially active under the full moon, but even now, you can see the subtleties in their interactions."
Apollyon watched, fascinated as the Mooncalves started to move around their enclosure in what appeared to be a delicate dance. Luna began to mimic some of their movements, her arms gently swaying. To Apollyon's amazement, the Mooncalves responded, their own movements mirroring Luna's with an added complexity.
"Try to move with them," Luna encouraged. "Feel the rhythm of their dance, and let them guide you."
With Luna's encouragement echoing softly in her ears, Apollyon took a deep, steadying breath and allowed herself to be carried away by the rhythm of the Mooncalves' dance. She moved slowly at first, her body tentatively swaying in sync with the creatures. As she did so, a subtle, almost imperceptible shift occurred within her, a gentle stirring of her Obscurial nature that she had learned to both accept and integrate into her being.
This part of her, once feared and suppressed, now became an asset in an unexpected way. The Obscurial essence within her, a reservoir of deep, wordless emotion and energy, began to resonate with the Mooncalves' dance. It was as if the dance was not just a physical movement but a language of emotions and intentions that her Obscurial nature could interpret, albeit in a raw, unrefined manner.
The connection was instinctual, almost primal. Apollyon found herself understanding the essence of the Mooncalves' movements—not through words or specific gestures, but through the emotions they conveyed. It was a language beyond language, a communication of feelings and states of being. Joy, curiosity, a gentle welcoming—these emotions flowed through the dance, and Apollyon, guided by her Obscurial nature, began to grasp these wordless messages.
Yet, this understanding was not clear-cut or easily interpreted. The emotions and intentions she sensed were tangled, complex, and sometimes contradictory. It was like listening to a beautiful but foreign piece of music, feeling its impact without fully comprehending the nuances of its melody and harmonies.
Luna watched Apollyon with a mixture of curiosity and wonder. "You're doing incredibly well," she whispered, noting the intuitive way Apollyon moved and responded to the Mooncalves. "There's a depth to your connection with them. It's as if you're speaking directly to their hearts."
Apollyon smiled, slightly breathless from the dance and the emotional exchange. "It's... different," she admitted. "I'm not sure I understand everything they're trying to say, but there's a feeling, an emotion behind their movements. My... my Obscurial nature, it somehow senses it, resonates with it."
Luna nodded, her eyes alight with fascination. "That's remarkable, Apollyon. Your unique connection could offer new insights into how we communicate and bond with magical creatures. It's a reminder that there are many languages of connection, some beyond our usual senses."
As the session with the Mooncalves came to an end, Apollyon felt a profound sense of gratitude and awe. Her journey of acceptance and understanding of her Obscurial nature had revealed an unexpected bridge to the magical creatures she sought to protect and understand.
The next day dawned bright and clear, heralding another opportunity for learning and connection at the sanctuary. With the previous day's experiences still fresh in her mind, Apollyon approached the day with a newfound sense of purpose and excitement. Today, she was to return to the Bowtruckles, those small, twig-like creatures that had first welcomed her into the world of magical creature care under Newt's guidance.
Luna accompanied her to the Bowtruckle enclosure, a lush area filled with the trees that these creatures called home. "Today," Luna began, her voice reflecting a blend of seriousness and encouragement, "we'll focus on deepening your connection with the Bowtruckles. Your unique ability to sense and understand the emotions of magical creatures will be crucial."
As they entered the enclosure, the Bowtruckles peered curiously from their perches among the leaves. Apollyon's heart swelled with affection for these tiny guardians, remembering the lessons from her first day.
Luna handed her a small pot containing a young sapling. "Let's see if you can communicate your intentions to help and protect, using the connection you've been developing. Bowtruckles are incredibly attuned to the health and well-being of their trees. Show them you're here to care for this sapling."
Apollyon nodded, taking the pot with a sense of reverence. She placed it gently on the ground before her and closed her eyes, reaching inward to the part of her that had resonated with the Mooncalves. She sought to convey a message of nurturing and protection, not through words, but through the raw, unspoken emotions that her Obscurial nature understood so well.
At first, nothing happened. But then, slowly, one of the Bowtruckles began to inch closer to the sapling. It tilted its head, studying Apollyon and the young tree, as if sensing the sincerity of her intentions. Then, with a gentle touch, it climbed down onto the sapling, its actions a tacit acceptance of her care.
Luna watched the exchange with a bright smile. "Incredible," she whispered. "You've managed to communicate without words, bridging the gap between your worlds. It's a beautiful thing to witness."
Encouraged, Apollyon spent the rest of the morning tending to the sapling under the watchful eyes of the Bowtruckles. She watered it, adjusted the soil, and even hummed softly, an intuitive gesture of comfort and companionship. The Bowtruckles, in turn, seemed to accept her presence more fully, no longer just observers but participants in the care of their new charge.
As the morning sun climbed higher, casting dappled shadows through the enclosure, Apollyon continued her gentle care of the sapling, fully immersed in her task. The enclosure had become a symphony of tranquility and subtle movements, with the Bowtruckles observing and occasionally assisting in their own meticulous way. It was a scene of harmony between a witch and the magical creatures she had come to understand on a profound level.
It was in this moment of peaceful coexistence that Newt Scamander found them. He had come to check on Apollyon's progress, curious about how she was adapting to the tasks he had set for her. The sight that greeted him brought a delighted chuckle to his lips, a sound that carried warmth and genuine amusement.
"Ah, Apollyon," Newt called out, his voice laced with mirth as he approached. "I see you've become quite the Bowtruckle whisperer."
Apollyon looked up, her face lighting up with a smile upon seeing Newt. Around her, the Bowtruckles seemed unperturbed by the new arrival, a testament to the comfort and trust she had established with them.
"It seems I have," she replied, her voice filled with a sense of accomplishment and joy. "They've been teaching me as much as I've been helping them, I think."
Newt laughed again, his eyes twinkling with pride. "Indeed, it appears you've been fully accepted into their fold. It's not every day you see Bowtruckles gathering around someone like this, treating them as one of their own. You have a remarkable talent, Apollyon."
He crouched down to inspect the sapling and the surrounding area, noting the care and attention Apollyon had provided. "This sapling looks healthier already. And your friends here," he gestured to the Bowtruckles, "seem very content with your efforts. It's clear you have a deep connection with them, one that goes beyond mere care. Your ability to communicate and empathize with magical creatures is exceptional."
Newt's words filled Apollyon with a sense of pride and validation. To hear such praise from someone she admired and respected deeply was both heartening and motivating.
"Thank you, Newt," she said, her voice tinged with gratitude. "It's been an incredible journey so far. I feel like I'm learning to communicate in a whole new way, one that's not just about words but about emotions and intentions."
Newt nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Indeed, the language of the heart, as I like to call it. It's a powerful form of communication, especially with creatures who rely on intuition and emotion over spoken words. You're unlocking new pathways of understanding, Apollyon, and that's a rare gift."
As they stood together in the Bowtruckle enclosure, surrounded by the tiny guardians who had accepted Apollyon as one of their own, Newt placed a hand on her shoulder, a gesture of support and encouragement.
"Keep nurturing this gift, Apollyon," he advised warmly. "It will lead you to incredible discoveries and deepen your bond with the magical world. And who knows? Perhaps it will inspire others to explore new ways of connecting with the creatures we strive to protect."
Encouraged by Newt's words and feeling a renewed sense of purpose, Apollyon followed him as they left the tranquility of the Bowtruckle enclosure behind. They walked through the sanctuary, passing by various habitats that housed an array of magical creatures, each more fascinating than the last. The sanctuary was alive with the sounds of the inhabitants, a testament to the careful and loving work carried out by Newt and his team.
After a short walk, they arrived at a larger, open area surrounded by tall, sturdy fences. The habitat was designed to mimic a grassy plain, complete with a small pond and a few scattered trees providing shade. Apollyon's curiosity piqued; she wondered which creature they were here to see.
"Today, I'd like you to meet someone very special," Newt began, his tone imbued with a mix of excitement and reverence. "This is the habitat of our Graphorn. They're powerful and majestic creatures, known for their strength and, unfortunately, their temper. But like all creatures, they possess a softer side, one that responds to kindness and understanding."
As they entered the enclosure, Apollyon caught her first glimpse of the Graphorn. It was a magnificent creature, larger than she had anticipated, with a body covered in thick, grayish hide and two large, curved horns protruding from its head. Its eyes, deep and intelligent, watched them approach with a cautious curiosity.
"The Graphorn is called Gideon," Newt continued, maintaining a respectful distance from the creature. "He's been with us for a while now, recovering from injuries he sustained before we found him. Gideon has made great progress, but he still requires careful attention and care."
Apollyon felt a mix of awe and a slight trepidation as she observed Gideon. The Graphorn's imposing presence was undeniable, yet there was a gentle wisdom in his eyes that resonated with her.
"Your task, Apollyon, will be to help with Gideon's ongoing care. I believe your unique abilities, especially your capacity to communicate through emotions, will be invaluable here. Gideon has been through a lot, and building trust with him will be essential," Newt explained, handing her a bundle of vegetation known to be favored by Graphorns.
Taking the bundle, Apollyon stepped forward slowly, her heart beating with anticipation. She reached out with her senses, tapping into the emotional language she had begun to understand. She projected feelings of safety, compassion, and a genuine desire to help, hoping to reach Gideon on a level beyond mere physical interaction.
To her relief and delight, Gideon took a few cautious steps toward her. His movements were measured, but there was a curiosity in his approach. Apollyon remained still, allowing Gideon to inspect the bundle of vegetation. After a moment, he gently took it from her hands, their eyes locking in a silent exchange of understanding.
"Remarkable," Newt murmured from behind her, his voice filled with admiration. "You've managed to connect with him faster than I anticipated. Gideon is not easily won over, but he seems to sense your intentions."
Over the next few hours, under Newt's guidance, Apollyon learned more about Gideon's needs, from his dietary preferences to the specific care required for his hide and horns. The Graphorn, in turn, showed signs of accepting her presence, a significant step toward his recovery and wellbeing.
As the day came to an end, Apollyon felt a profound connection not only to Gideon but to all the creatures she had encountered. Her journey at the sanctuary was teaching her more than just the care of magical creatures; it was revealing the depth of connection possible between beings, fostered by empathy, understanding, and an open heart.
As they neared the enclosure, Elara began detailing the plan for the young Hippogriff's recovery. "His name is Orion, after the hunter, because he's always been so spirited and bold. Unfortunately, his adventurous nature led him into trouble; he sustained a wing injury while flying too close to a Muggle area that was undergoing construction."
Apollyon peered into the enclosure and saw Orion for the first time. The Hippogriff was indeed a sight to behold, even in his weakened state. His feathers, a majestic blend of silvery gray and deep midnight blue, shimmered faintly in the sunlight, and his proud eagle head, with piercing golden eyes, surveyed his surroundings with a mix of curiosity and wariness.
"The first step," Elara continued, "is to ensure Orion's physical wounds are properly tended to. We've been applying a special salve to the injured wing to promote healing, but it needs to be done gently to avoid causing him further stress. I'll show you how to apply it."
Elara demonstrated the technique, carefully approaching Orion with a calm and reassuring presence. The Hippogriff, sensing her intent, allowed her to draw closer. "It's crucial to maintain a sense of trust and safety. Hippogriffs are proud creatures, and they respond well to respect and clear communication."
Apollyon watched intently, taking mental notes of Elara's movements and the way she interacted with Orion. When it was her turn, she approached slowly, extending her arm in a gesture of greeting, as she had learned was customary with Hippogriffs. Orion, after a moment of consideration, bowed his head slightly, granting her permission to come closer.
"Good, Apollyon," Elara encouraged softly. "Now, gently apply the salve here, along the length of the wing. Make sure it's spread evenly."
As Apollyon applied the salve, she spoke softly to Orion, conveying through her voice and demeanor a message of care and empathy. She remembered the emotional connection she had formed with Gideon and tried to establish a similar bond with Orion, despite their different natures.
"His recovery isn't just about healing the physical injury," Elara said, watching Apollyon work. "It's also about rebuilding his confidence. Once he's physically healed, we'll need to work on strengthening his wing muscles and gradually reintroducing him to flying. It will be a slow process, but with patience and encouragement, I believe he'll fly again."
Apollyon nodded, absorbing Elara's words. "I understand. I'll do everything I can to help him through this. Both the physical healing and helping him regain his strength and confidence."
Elara smiled, clearly pleased with Apollyon's dedication. "I'm glad to hear it. Your empathy and connection with magical creatures make you particularly suited to this task. Remember, it's about more than just the treatments; it's about understanding Orion's needs and adapting to them as he recovers."
Together, they continued to tend to Orion, the young Hippogriff gradually becoming more at ease with their presence. As the days passed, Apollyon dedicated herself to Orion's care, applying the salve, engaging him in gentle exercises to maintain his strength, and spending time with him to foster trust and companionship.
-
Over the weeks that Apollyon spent in America under the tutelage of Newt Scamander, her understanding and connection with magical creatures deepened profoundly. The sanctuary had become a place of immense learning and growth, not just in the care and understanding of the creatures she worked with but also in her own personal journey with her Obscurial nature.
Among the most transformative experiences was her deep dive into the nature of Obscurials with Newt. His expertise and compassionate approach to such complex magical phenomena provided Apollyon with insights she had never considered. This journey of understanding led to an unexpected development: a gradual change in the color of her eyes. Her green eye was slowly taking on a redder hue, while her blue eye transitioned into a shade of purple, symbolizing her increasingly close bond with her Obscurial nature.
Newt had observed these changes with a mix of fascination and thoughtful concern. One evening, as they sat in the dim light of his study, surrounded by notes and books on various magical creatures, including Obscurials, he addressed the transformation.
"Apollyon," he began, his voice gentle but serious, "your eyes... they are a physical manifestation of the changes happening within you. It seems you're not just living with your Obscurial nature; you're fully integrating with it. This is exceedingly rare."
Apollyon, who had been pondering the same changes, met his gaze. "I've felt it," she admitted. "It's as if the boundaries between me and the Obscurial are blurring. We're not two entities fighting for control; we're becoming one. Is... is this dangerous?"
Newt considered her question carefully before answering. "It's uncharted territory, Apollyon. Typically, an Obscurial's magic is at odds with their own being, leading to volatility and destruction. But in your case, it seems to be harmonizing, which could suggest a profound level of self-acceptance and understanding. This could be a powerful evolution of your magic, not a danger, provided it's approached with care and awareness."
He leaned forward, his eyes earnest. "Your journey with your Obscurial nature is unique, and it may very well redefine what we understand about Obscurials. Your eye color change is a visible sign of this integration. It's important we continue to monitor these changes closely, both for your well-being and for what it could teach us."
Apollyon nodded, the weight of Newt's words settling over her. "I want to understand this, Newt. Not just for myself, but for others like me. If there's a way to live in harmony with one's Obscurial nature, I want to find it and share it."
Newt smiled, his expression one of admiration and support. "And I'll be here to guide you, every step of the way. Your experience could offer hope to others, Apollyon. Together, we'll explore this new path you're forging."
Encouraged by Newt's support and driven by a desire to understand and harness her Obscurial nature, Apollyon dedicated herself to a regimen of study, practice, and self-reflection. She delved into ancient texts and modern research alike, seeking out any scrap of information that might shed light on her condition and how it was evolving. Newt facilitated her search, providing access to his extensive library and reaching out to his network of contacts for more obscure sources.
During this time, Apollyon also continued her work with the magical creatures at the sanctuary. She found that her deepening connection to her Obscurial nature enhanced her ability to communicate and empathize with them. Creatures that were once wary or difficult to approach now seemed more open to her presence, as if sensing the unique energy she radiated.
One day, while working with a particularly timid Niffler that had been rescued from a black market, Apollyon experienced a breakthrough. As she focused on calming the creature, she felt her Obscurial essence stir within her, not as a separate force, but as an integrated part of her magic. She reached out with her mind, projecting feelings of safety and warmth. To her amazement, the Niffler responded, relaxing into her touch with a trust it had shown to no one else.
This moment of connection was a revelation to Apollyon. It confirmed Newt's belief that her unique condition could be a source of strength rather than a curse. Inspired, she began to document her experiences and insights, hoping they might someday help others like her find peace and purpose.
As weeks turned into months, Apollyon's eyes fully transformed, the vibrant mix of red and purple becoming a striking symbol of her harmony with the Obscurial within her. This physical change was matched by an inner transformation. She felt more whole, more herself than she ever had before. Her magic, once a wild, unpredictable force, now flowed with a controlled intensity that she wielded with increasing confidence.
Newt, witnessing Apollyon's growth and transformation, felt a mix of pride and wonder. "Your journey has been extraordinary, Apollyon," he told her one evening as they reviewed her latest notes. "You've not only mastered your Obscurial nature but turned it into a beacon of hope. The insights we've gathered here could change the way the magical world understands and interacts with Obscurials."
Wöchentlicher Energiestatus
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Rangliste 
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Stein