Chapitre 55: 55. Magical Beasts
Around the warmth of the hearth, where the flickering flames seemed to weave tales of courage and determination into the very air, Apollyon found solace and contemplation. Her thoughts danced between the recent events, the lessons learned, and the path that lay ahead. It was in this moment of reflection that James Potter approached her, his presence a reminder of the familial bond that extended beyond blood, within the ranks of the Order.
"Apollyon," James began, his voice imbued with the warmth that had always characterized his approach to mentorship and guidance. "I'm about to take Harry and Eleanor through some sparring exercises. Would you care to join us? I believe it could be a beneficial experience for all involved."
The invitation caught Apollyon by surprise, not just for the opportunity it presented, but for the inclusiveness it symbolized. Despite her status as the newest and youngest member of the Order, she was being extended a hand of equality, an offer to stand alongside those she had come to respect deeply.
With a nod of acceptance, Apollyon rose from her seat by the hearth, the embers' glow casting a soft light over her features. "I'd be honored to join you, James," she replied, her voice carrying a mix of gratitude and eagerness. The prospect of learning alongside Harry and Eleanor, to spar under James's expert tutelage, was an opportunity to hone her skills further and to strengthen the bonds that tied her to the Potter family and the Order.
As they made their way to the designated area for their training, the cool night air brushing against their faces, a sense of anticipation built within Apollyon. This was more than just a training session; it was a testament to the trust and camaraderie that had blossomed among them, a chance to learn not just the mechanics of combat, but the nuances of teamwork and mutual support.
Under the silver glow of the moon, James began to outline the sparring exercises, his experience as an Auror lending authority and depth to his instructions. Harry and Eleanor, equally enthusiastic, stood ready, their wands held with a confidence born of their heritage and their own growing proficiency in magic.
As the session progressed, Apollyon found herself immersed in the rhythm of the exercises, each movement and spell cast a step towards greater mastery and understanding. The feedback from James, coupled with the spirited exchanges between Harry, Eleanor, and herself, fostered an environment of learning and growth.
In those moments, with the night air alive with the sounds of their practice, Apollyon felt a profound connection to her companions. They were united not just by their shared mission, but by the relentless pursuit of improvement, by the unspoken promise to stand as protectors of the light against the encroaching shadows.
The sparring session, while rigorous, was imbued with laughter and light-hearted moments, reminders of the joy that could be found even in the midst of their struggle. And as they concluded their training, with words of encouragement and shared smiles, Apollyon felt a renewed sense of purpose and belonging.
In the company of the Potters, under the tutelage of James, she was more than just a member of the Order; she was part of a family united in courage, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to stand against the darkness, together.
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Apollyon's journey took an unexpected turn when Dumbledore proposed a new path for her—a journey that would take her far beyond the walls of Hogwarts and into the broader magical world. The suggestion came at a time when Apollyon had already proven herself not just as a talented witch, but as someone capable of facing the extraordinary challenges her unique nature presented. Dumbledore, ever insightful, recognized that her potential could be further realized through experiences that extended beyond traditional education.
"Apollyon," Dumbledore began, his tone both serious and encouraging, "I have been considering your path forward, and I believe that staying within the confines of Hogwarts may not offer you the growth you require at this juncture. Your talents, your abilities, and your unique connection to the magical world suggest a different kind of journey."
The proposal that followed was both thrilling and daunting: to travel to America and study under Newt Scamander, the renowned magizoologist known for his work with magical creatures, including Obscurials. Newt's deep understanding of magical beings and his compassionate approach to their study made him an ideal mentor for Apollyon as she sought to understand the full extent of her powers and her place within the magical world.
"Newt has agreed to guide you, to share his knowledge and his travels with you," Dumbledore continued. "This journey will not only aid in your personal growth but may also serve a greater purpose. The world is vast, Apollyon, filled with allies we have yet to meet and wisdom we have yet to uncover. Your travels could forge new bonds, gather allies for the battles that lie ahead, and perhaps even uncover knowledge that could aid us in our fight against the darkness."
The decision to leave Hogwarts, to step into the unknown and embrace a life of exploration and discovery, was not made lightly. Yet, Apollyon understood the opportunity before her—to learn from one of the magical world's most compassionate and knowledgeable figures, to expand her horizons beyond what she had ever imagined, and to play a part in uniting the magical world against the growing threat of Voldemort.
As she prepared for her departure, Apollyon felt a mixture of excitement and apprehension. The prospect of traveling the world, of seeing and experiencing its wonders and dangers, was exhilarating. Yet, leaving behind the familiar, the friends and mentors who had supported her, brought a pang of sadness.
But Dumbledore's words resonated within her, a guiding light in the uncertainty of her new path. "Remember, Apollyon, that every journey begins with a single step. This is yours to take, and I have every faith that it will lead you to places of wonder, challenge, and growth. You are a beacon of hope in these dark times, and your light will guide you through."
With those parting words and the support of the Order, Apollyon set out on her journey, her heart filled with a resolve to embrace the adventures that awaited her, to learn, to grow, and to return with the strength and allies needed to stand against the darkness threatening their world.
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Apollyon's journey to America was both a literal and metaphorical crossing into uncharted territories. With the support and well-wishes of the Order of the Phoenix, she embarked from London, her departure marked by a mix of determined anticipation and heartfelt goodbyes. The magical means of travel had been carefully arranged by Dumbledore, ensuring her journey would be swift and secure. A specially chartered portkey, disguised as an unassuming piece of driftwood, was her conduit across the ocean, set to deliver her to a secluded location on the outskirts of New York where her new mentor awaited.
The sensation of traveling by portkey was as abrupt and disorienting as ever, but Apollyon's focus was laser-sharp on the task ahead. When she arrived, the first thing she noticed was the vast difference in the landscape and air. The crisp, fresh scent of the New World was a stark contrast to the ancient, familiar aroma of the British Isles. As she took her first steps on American soil, her heart raced with the thrill of the unknown.
It wasn't long before she spotted Newt Scamander. He was unmistakable, with his characteristic peacock blue coat standing out against the greens and browns of the forested area where he had chosen to meet her. His attention was momentarily caught by a small, scuttling creature at his feet, which he was trying to coax into a tiny, intricately designed box. It was a scene so quintessentially Newt that Apollyon couldn't help but smile.
"Mr. Scamander?" she called out, stepping closer.
Newt glanced up, a spark of recognition lighting his eyes as he saw Apollyon approaching. "Ah, Apollyon, it's good to see you again," he greeted warmly, straightening up and stowing away the small creature with practiced ease. "Our last meeting was quite impactful, wasn't it? How have you been since we explored your connection with the Obscurial nature?"
Apollyon's face lit up with a genuine smile, recalling their intense, yet enlightening previous encounter. "It was a turning point for me, Newt. Your guidance helped me not just understand but also accept a part of myself I was afraid of. I've been better, stronger, and more in control since then," she replied, her voice tinged with gratitude.
Newt's smile broadened, pleased by her progress. "I'm glad to hear that. You've shown remarkable resilience and courage. And now, here you are, ready for the next stage of your journey," he said, motioning for her to follow him. "Come, let's walk. There's much to discuss and even more to prepare for."
As they made their way through the dense, vibrant wilderness surrounding Newt's meeting point, Apollyon couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of the new landscape, so different from the one she left behind. Newt began to share tales of his adventures, the creatures he had encountered, and the lessons he had learned from them. Each story was a testament to his deep respect for magical beings and his unwavering commitment to their welfare and understanding.
"Our work together will delve deeper into the magical world than you might expect," Newt said, his tone serious yet filled with excitement. "Your unique affinity with the Obscurial nature offers us a rare opportunity to understand magical creatures on a level few can. But it's not without its risks, and we'll need to approach each step with care and consideration."
Apollyon nodded, absorbing every word. She understood the gravity of the path she had chosen, yet the prospect of uncovering new layers of the magical world, under Newt's tutelage, filled her with an insatiable curiosity and a burning desire to make a difference.
Eventually, they arrived at Newt's American base, a secluded haven where he conducted his research and cared for the creatures he rescued. The place was a blend of natural beauty and magical innovation, reflecting its owner's personality and life's work.
"As we work together, you'll learn more than just about magical creatures," Newt continued, guiding her through the sanctuary. "You'll learn about the balance of nature, the intricacies of magical ecosystems, and how everything is interconnected. Your experiences with your Obscurial nature can provide invaluable insights into our work."
Apollyon felt a profound connection to Newt's vision. The opportunity to contribute to understanding the magical world, to protect its inhabitants, and to learn from one of the most compassionate and knowledgeable figures in the magical community was more than she had ever hoped for.
Newt led Apollyon into the heart of his sanctuary, where the air hummed with the presence of magic and the calls of unseen creatures. The base itself was an eclectic mix of open spaces, dense foliage, and a series of small, carefully constructed environments designed to mimic the natural habitats of the creatures Newt cared for. Each enclosure was a window into a different world, from the arid, sandy terrains home to Nifflers, to the lush, vibrant ecosystems where Mooncalves frolicked under the moonlight.
"Our main goal here is to create a safe space where these creatures can thrive, recover, or grow before returning to their natural habitats, if possible," Newt explained, his eyes sparkling with passion as he gestured around the sanctuary. "It's also a place of learning and research, where we can study their behaviors, needs, and how best to protect them in the wild."
As they walked, Newt stopped before a large, serene pond, its waters crystal clear and teeming with magical aquatic life. "This is one of my favorite spots," he shared. "It's a reminder of the tranquility and beauty that the magical world holds, a beauty that's worth protecting."
Apollyon was captivated, each step revealing more wonders and deepening her understanding of the mission that lay before her. The base was not just a sanctuary for magical creatures; it was a testament to the possibility of harmony between the magical and natural worlds.
Turning to Newt, Apollyon expressed her eagerness to start. "I'm ready to learn, to help. Where do we begin?"
Newt's face broke into a wide grin, pleased by her enthusiasm. "We'll start with the basics. You'll learn how to care for these creatures, understand their needs, and the magical nuances that define them. We'll also revisit your connection with your Obscurial nature, exploring how it can enhance our work here."
He paused, his gaze thoughtful. "And there's something else," he added, "a project I've been working on, related to the conservation of magical creatures and their habitats. I believe your unique perspective could be invaluable to it."
Apollyon listened intently, her excitement growing with every word. The opportunity to contribute to such meaningful work, to learn from Newt, and to explore her own abilities in new ways was more than she could have asked for.
As the sun began to set, casting long shadows and painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, Newt and Apollyon made their way to the main building, a charming structure that served as both Newt's home and the operational heart of the sanctuary. Inside, the walls were lined with books, artifacts, and the many tools of Newt's trade. It was a cozy, inviting space, filled with the evidence of a life dedicated to the magical world.
"Tonight, we rest," Newt said, offering her a comforting smile. "Tomorrow, we begin in earnest. There's much to do, and I'm glad you're here with us, Apollyon. Together, I believe we can make a significant impact."
As Apollyon settled in, surrounded by the wonders of the sanctuary and the promise of the work ahead, she felt a profound sense of belonging. Here, in this place of magic and learning, she was exactly where she needed to be. With Newt's guidance and the sanctuary as their backdrop, the journey ahead promised to be one of discovery, growth, and hope for the magical world.
As night enveloped the sanctuary, casting a serene silence over the magical enclave, Apollyon retreated to her room, a cozy nook that Newt had prepared for her, filled with books on magical creatures, plants, and a variety of subjects that piqued her interest. The tranquility of the evening provided the perfect backdrop for reflection and exploration, not just of the physical world around her but of the vast landscape within her mind.
Sitting cross-legged on her bed, Apollyon closed her eyes, taking deep, measured breaths as she prepared to delve into her mindscape. Meditation had become a crucial part of her routine, a way to harmonize with her Obscurial nature, which she had learned to accept and embrace as an integral part of her being. The journey to this acceptance had been fraught with challenges and fears, but it had led to a newfound strength and understanding of herself and her magic.
As she ventured deeper into her consciousness, Apollyon encountered her Obscurial side, a manifestation of her magic that was both formidable and familiar. It no longer appeared to her as a tumultuous storm of dark energy but rather as a constant, pulsating presence that resonated with her own heartbeat. They had become one, a symbiotic existence that blended power with purpose.
In this meditative state, Apollyon engaged with her Obscurial self, exploring the nuances of their bond. She felt the raw energy that coursed through her, the same energy she had once feared, now a source of strength and resilience. This deep connection allowed her to approach her magical studies with a unique perspective, blending traditional spellcasting with the intuitive, instinctual magic of her Obscurial nature.
As she meditated, Apollyon also turned her focus to the spells and magical theories she aimed to study while resting. Her mind, a fertile ground for learning, absorbed the complex enchantments and spells that Newt had introduced to her earlier. She visualized the movements, the incantations, and the intent behind each spell, committing them to memory with an ease that was amplified by her heightened magical awareness.
Among the spells were those designed to care for and communicate with magical creatures, to heal and protect, and to understand the deeper, often unspoken languages of the magical world. Apollyon felt a profound connection to these spells, a sense of rightness in learning magic that bridged the gap between beings, fostering understanding and compassion.
Throughout the night, Apollyon's exploration of her mindscape and her studies unfolded in a seamless dance of introspection and learning. Her acceptance of her Obscurial nature had unlocked doors to realms of magic she had never imagined, allowing her to approach her studies with a depth and intensity that was both exhilarating and humbling.
When she finally emerged from her meditative state, the first light of dawn was creeping into her room, painting the walls with hues of gold and pink. Apollyon felt refreshed, invigorated, and ready to embark on the day's adventures with Newt. The night's journey through her mindscape had not only deepened her understanding of herself and her magic but had also filled her with a sense of purpose and anticipation for the work ahead.
As she prepared for the day, Apollyon knew that her journey with Newt, her exploration of the magical world, and her ongoing dialogue with her Obscurial side would continue to shape her into the witch she was meant to be.
The first rays of dawn bathed Apollyon's room in a soft, golden light, heralding the start of a new day filled with promise and learning. She rose, feeling a sense of purpose fueling her actions, and quickly readied herself for the day's lessons. Her thoughts lingered on the insights gained from the night's meditation, a steady source of strength and curiosity as she prepared to meet Newt for their first official lesson.
As she stepped out of her room, the sanctuary was already awake with the sounds of magical creatures stirring, a symphony of chirps, growls, and fluttering that filled the air with life. She found Newt waiting for her in a small, sunlit clearing near the main building, surrounded by several peculiar-looking plants and a couple of small, furry creatures that hopped around his feet with evident enthusiasm.
"Good morning, Apollyon," Newt greeted her with a warm smile. "I hope you're feeling rested and ready for our first lesson."
"I am, thank you," Apollyon replied, returning his smile as she looked curiously at the creatures and plants. "What are we starting with?"
Newt's eyes twinkled with excitement. "We're going to begin with something rather straightforward—Bowtruckle care. Bowtruckles are fascinating creatures; they're small, tree-dwelling beings that are exceptionally good at hiding. They're generally peaceful but can be fiercely protective of their home trees. Understanding and caring for them requires patience, observation, and a gentle touch."
He gestured towards a small, twig-like creature that blended almost seamlessly with the plant it clung to. "This here is Pickwick. He's been with me for a while now."
Apollyon stepped closer, observing the Bowtruckle with keen interest. Its small, leafy body and sharp, wood-like fingers made it appear as an extension of the plant it was perched on.
"Today, you'll learn how to properly feed and interact with Bowtruckles. They primarily eat woodlice, but they're also fond of fairy eggs. The key is to approach them calmly and respectfully, letting them become accustomed to your presence," Newt explained, demonstrating how to offer a small piece of wood with a woodlouse on it to Pickwick.
Apollyon watched as Pickwick cautiously accepted the offering, its movements delicate and precise. Following Newt's example, she gently extended her hand, offering another piece of wood to
a second Bowtruckle that had curiously ventured closer, perhaps intrigued by the presence of a new human.
"Remember, slow movements. Let them come to you," Newt advised softly, observing as Apollyon mimicked his actions.
Apollyon held her breath, trying to exude calm and patience. After a moment, the Bowtruckle, eyes fixed on her, slowly made its way towards her extended hand. Its tiny fingers grasped the wood, and it began to nibble on the woodlouse with apparent contentment. Apollyon felt a thrill of achievement, a smile spreading across her face as she met Newt's approving gaze.
"Well done, Apollyon," Newt complimented. "Bowtruckles can be quite shy, but they're excellent judges of character. Your calm demeanor has clearly won this one over."
Encouraged by her success, Apollyon asked, "What else should I know about caring for them?"
Newt, pleased with her interest, delved into a detailed explanation. "Bowtruckles require a habitat that mimics their natural environment closely—a tree or a large plant with plenty of hiding spots. They're also social creatures among their kind, so they thrive in groups. If you ever have to handle one, remember, it's crucial to ensure they feel safe and secure with you."
As the lesson continued, Newt introduced Apollyon to other aspects of Bowtruckle care, including their environmental needs, signs of distress to watch out for, and how to facilitate social interactions among them. Each piece of information was a building block in Apollyon's growing understanding of magical creature care, highlighting the balance between magical and natural worlds that Newt had spoken of.
The morning lesson with the Bowtruckles served as an introduction not just to their care but also to the broader principles that underpinned Newt's approach to all magical creatures. As Apollyon became more comfortable with the Bowtruckles, her initial success with feeding them led to more intricate aspects of their care and understanding.
"Another important aspect to remember," Newt continued, his gaze shifting from the Bowtruckles to Apollyon, "is the significance of the tree to a Bowtruckle. Each Bowtruckle is particularly attached to the tree it guards. This bond is not just physical but magical. It's a symbiotic relationship; the Bowtruckle protects the tree from parasites and threats, and in turn, the tree provides the Bowtruckle with a home and nourishment."
Apollyon absorbed this information, understanding the deep interconnectedness that existed within the magical ecosystem. "So, ensuring their home trees are healthy is just as crucial as caring for the Bowtruckles themselves?"
"Exactly," Newt affirmed, pleased with her quick grasp of the concept. "Conservation of their habitat is fundamental. It's a lesson that applies to all magical creatures. Their well-being is often directly linked to the health of their environment."
He then guided Apollyon through the process of inspecting a tree for signs of disease or infestation, demonstrating the gentle, non-invasive spells used to treat common ailments without harming the tree or its magical guardians.
As the sun climbed higher, enriching the clearing with light and warmth, Newt decided it was time for the next part of the lesson. "Caring for magical creatures is not just about meeting their physical needs," he explained. "It's also about understanding and respecting their emotional and social behaviors."
To illustrate his point, Newt introduced Apollyon to a small group of Bowtruckles from different trees, observing their interactions and teaching her how to recognize their various gestures and sounds as communication. "Bowtruckles, like many creatures, have their own ways of expressing contentment, fear, and curiosity. Learning to interpret these signs will help you interact with them more effectively."
This part of the lesson was particularly challenging, requiring Apollyon to pay close attention to subtle shifts in the Bowtruckles' body language and the slight variations in their chirping sounds. Yet, with Newt's patient guidance, she began to discern the differences, gaining insights into the creatures' moods and needs.
As the morning lessons concluded, Apollyon felt a profound sense of accomplishment and a deepening respect for the magical creatures she was learning to care for. The knowledge she gained was not just academic; it was a deeply personal understanding of the delicate balance that existed between all living beings, magical and non-magical alike.
"Well done today, Apollyon," Newt said, his voice imbued with genuine praise. "Your intuition and empathy with the Bowtruckles have been remarkable. These qualities will serve you well as we continue our journey into the world of magical creatures."
After the enriching morning session, Newt led Apollyon toward the main building, where the aroma of freshly prepared food wafted through the air, mingling with the earthy scents of the sanctuary. They approached a large, open dining area where several people were gathered around a rustic wooden table, chatting amiably and enjoying their lunch in the warmth of the midday sun.
"Apollyon, let me introduce you to the rest of our team. They're an exceptional group, each bringing their own unique skills and passion to our work here," Newt began, as they reached the table. The conversations tapered off as everyone turned their attention toward them, welcoming smiles on their faces.
First, Newt introduced a woman with striking auburn hair and an authoritative yet kind demeanor. "This is Dr. Elara Finch. She's our resident veterinarian and magical creature healer. Her knowledge of magical and non-magical animal physiology is unparalleled."
Elara extended her hand to Apollyon, her eyes bright with interest. "Pleased to meet you, Apollyon. I've heard much about your journey. I'm looking forward to seeing what insights you'll bring to our team."
Next to Elara sat a man with a jovial face, his eyes twinkling behind round spectacles. "And this is Felix Blythe," Newt continued. "Felix is our magical botanist. He ensures that the habitats we create here mimic the natural environments of our creatures as closely as possible. His work is vital to their wellbeing."
Felix shook Apollyon's hand warmly. "Welcome! I hope you find the flora here as fascinating as our fauna. There's always something new to discover!"
Beside Felix was a young woman with an enthusiastic smile and an eager posture. "This is Luna Santiago," Newt introduced. "She specializes in magical creature communication. Luna has an extraordinary ability to understand and interpret the languages of our creatures, bridging the gap between their world and ours."
Luna's greeting was vibrant and full of warmth. "It's wonderful to meet you, Apollyon! I can't wait to hear about your experiences. Communication with magical creatures is a profound journey, and I'm here to help you navigate it."
Finally, Newt gestured to a tall, slender man who stood slightly apart from the group, his presence calm and measured. "And this is Orion Thorne. Orion is our conservation strategist, working on the front lines of magical creature rights and habitat preservation. His strategic thinking helps guide our efforts to protect magical creatures both in the wild and in regulated sanctuaries."
Orion nodded to Apollyon, his greeting thoughtful. "Your involvement with our team could not have come at a more crucial time, Apollyon. The challenges facing magical creatures are immense, but together, we can make a difference."
After the introductions, Newt announced, "For this afternoon, I'd like Apollyon to work with Luna. Your ability to connect with the Bowtruckles this morning was impressive, and I believe Luna can help you further develop your communication skills with our other magical residents."
Luna's face lit up with excitement. "Absolutely, Newt! I've got the perfect starting point for us, Apollyon. There's so much I'd like to share with you."
As they settled down to finish their lunch, Apollyon felt a swell of gratitude and anticipation. Each member of Newt's team was not only passionate about their work but also deeply committed to the welfare of magical creatures. The opportunity to learn from them and contribute to their cause filled her with a sense of purpose and belonging. With Luna as her guide for the afternoon, Apollyon was eager to explore the depths of magical creature communication, ready to embark on the next phase of her extraordinary journey.
État de l’alimentation hebdomadaire
-- Classement
Power Stone 
-- Power
stone