Fic: Unicorn Love Luna/Pansy PG-13
This is my pinch hit for this year's Femmefest. There is some really good stuff there, so if you haven't looked, take the time.
b>Title: Unicorn Love
Author/Artist:Lash_Larue
Recipient: Nifflers-n-nargles
Rating: PG-13
Pairing(s):Luna/Pansy
Summary: Love is where it finds you
Warnings: A bit fluffy.
Word Count/Art Style: 9500
Author's Notes:Thank you for the interesting prompts! I hope that I left an adequate trail down this particular rabbit hole. Postwar, non-specific timeframe. Some characters might not have been alive according to canon, but they are only mentioned in passing. My thanks to Magnetic_Pole for bringing a bit of order to this chaos.
Unicorn Love
Pansy Parkinson entered Ollivanders carrying the pieces of her wand. She had been thrilled to hear that the shop was open again, as she thought that only Ollivander would have a chance of repairing it.
"Hello? You have a customer," she called out.
"I'll be right with you," came the reply from someone who was obviously not Ollivander.
"Must be a shop girl," Pansy thought. "I suppose he needs the help, old as he is."
"Welcome to Ollivanders, how may I help-- Parkinson--" Luna Lovegood stopped abruptly and stared at Pansy, who returned the stare with interest.
"What are you doing here, Lovegood?"
"Obviously, I work here. Now then, what brings you in today?"
Luna remembered Pansy with small affection, but a customer was a customer.
"My wand is broken. I was hoping that Mr. Ollivander might be able to fix it."
"Let me see it, please -- oh dear, how did this happen?" Luna asked, looking at the four pieces of Pansy's wand on the counter.
"What does it matter? Can he fix it?"
"The circumstances of the damage matter. If it was done deliberately and with malice, it is much more difficult to repair because that damages the spirit of the wand," Luna told her. "In this case the core is severed in three places as well, which further complicates things."
Luna picked up the longest piece and examined it closely.
"Willow and unicorn tail hair, correct?"
"Yes."
"That surprises me a bit," Luna said.
"Why does that surprise you?"
"Because the wand that Mr. Ollivander made for me after we were rescued from the Death Eaters is willow and unicorn tail hair. I would never have guessed that our wands would be so similar. We don't seem to have much in common, you and I."
"Thank Merlin for that. Can he fix it or not?"
"No, he cannot. Mr. Ollivander is retired and not in very good health. The shop is mine, now."
Pansy's jaw dropped.
"But I believe that it might be possible to repair it. The core is still active even though it is severed. Unicorn tail hair is very resilient, and this wand seems to be quite fond of you, for some reason."
"I've had it since I was six. I love that wand, and I always took good care of it. Until this happened, that is."
"Wands appreciate being cared for, and apart from being broken, the wood is indeed in splendid condition. So what happened?"
"My girlfriend and I broke up," Pansy said. "She took a cleaver to it."
"Girlfriend? I didn't know you were gay, Parkinson."
"I'm not, I'm bi. Not that it's any of your business, and what do you care, anyway?"
"I don't, I was just surprised. I understand better why our wands are similar now, though. So malice was involved in the damage. Why did you break up?" Luna questioned. "And before you ask, yes, it matters. You and this wand were intimately connected, your feelings and actions influence it."
"I made a mistake," Pansy said, and her face turned red.
"What sort of mistake?"
"I cheated on her and got caught, okay?" Pansy blurted.
"Apparently, it wasn't okay with her," Luna said. "Are you still involved with the person you cheated on her with?"
"No. He was beautiful, and I was drunk. I thought I could get away with it, but Blaise Zabini saw us and ratted on me. Blaise was another mistake. I went out with him for a while after Hogwarts. He's a narcissistic asshole. So was Draco, for that matter, when we were dating. He's not so bad now, though. I'm friends with him and Astoria. Frankly, I don't have a very good track record with relationships."
"Take my hand," Luna said.
"Why?"
"I need to assess the strength of the connection between you and your wand. I'll hold the handle portion of your wand and see if it can still sense you."
Pansy took the offered hand, and after a moment felt a tingle that started in her hand and spread throughout her body. It was as pleasant as it was surprising.
"That's enough," Luna said, and Pansy reluctantly let go of her. "I believe that I can repair your wand. It wants to be with you."
"For some reason, right?"
"Right." Luna said. "The wand chooses the witch. It doesn't have to make sense to us who the wand picks. It will take several days. I'll need to find compatible wood and hair to do the grafting. Mr. Ollivander made it, didn't he?"
"Yes."
"That will help, there will be records of where the wood and the core came from. It's even possible that there is material in stock to fix it," Luna said.
"Maybe I should take it to Gregorovitch. I mean, you're kind of new at this, aren't you?"
"Gregorovitch cannot work with unicorn cores. Unicorns dislike him. Do you really think that Ollivander would have trusted me with his legacy if I were not up to the task? But if you don't want 'Loony Lovegood' working on your wand, take it and get out."
<<<*>>>
Pansy gave a treat to the post owl when it arrived at her home, then she retrieved the letter it carried. She opened it quickly and read --
You have been informed correctly, Ms. Parkinson. I do not work with unicorn tail hair, ever. I do not like unicorns, nor do they care for me. As I am sure you know, I specialize in dragon heartstring. I invite you to come to my shop should you wish to replace your damaged wand with something more solid and reliable.
Tussaud's in France has a fine reputation, but they work mostly with Veela hair. In my experience this makes for a rather fickle wand, although they can be extremely powerful.
There are some decent wandmakers in North America, but none of them work with unicorn hair at all.
From your description of the damage, I think it extremely unlikely that your wand can be repaired. But if you insist on trying to, Ollivander informs me that the woman now in charge of his shop is the most gifted wandsmith he has ever seen. Especially with unicorn hair.
Regards,
Mykew Gregorovitch
"Well, shit," Pansy said aloud. "I don't fancy one of those clunky Gregorovitch wands, nor taking a trans-continental portkey. So I either take my chances in France or deal with Lovegood."
Pansy looked ruefully at the pieces of her wand.
"Ollivander himself couldn't fix this mess. I should just go to France."
Pansy ran her hands roughly through her hair.
"But I'm not. I'm going back to Lovegood," she sighed. "I need to."
"Shit."
<<<*>>>
"You were right, Lovegood. Gregorovitch doesn't work with unicorn hair. Are you willing to try and fix mine?"
"It's my job, Ms. Parkinson," Luna said. "I'm in business and don't make a habit of turning away customers. You do understand that I cannot promise that it will be just like it was, don't you? The damage is extensive, both physically and magically."
"Yes, I understand that. Frankly, I'm surprised that you think it's possible at all. Gregorovitch certainly doesn't. But he said Ollivander called you the most gifted wandsmith he's ever seen. Is 'wandsmith' just another name for wandmaker?"
"Not precisely. A wandsmith has a special interest in repairing wands. All wandsmiths are wandmakers, but not all wandmakers are wandsmiths," Luna said.
"Oh. It seems that I'm in the right place after all, then. Listen, Lovegood, I... I hope you don't hold it against me that I checked with Gregorovitch. It's just that I... well, you know, I..."
"You love this wand, and you think I'm a little crazy," Luna finished. Pansy turned red. "I likely am a little crazy, but sometimes a lunatic is just what you need. Your wand is in good hands with me, Ms. Parkinson, never fear."
Pansy handed over the pieces of her wand, and Luna gently placed them in a box.
"Why do you specialize in repairing wands? It seems like it would be more difficult than making them," Pansy asked.
"Oh, it is. It is also more challenging and more rewarding. Do you remember how it felt when your wand chose you?"
"Yes, I do. I'd never been so excited in my life. It was a wonderful feeling," Pansy said.
"Then imagine how wonderful it will feel when I return Abigail to you, healed."
"Abigail! How did you know I named her that? I've never told anyone."
"I learned it through your connection with her when we tested that the last time you were here," Luna told her. "This is Penelope," Luna said as she pulled her wand from behind her ear. "It turns out that our wands are even more similar than I thought. I looked yours up, and the unicorn hair comes from the same herd. Not the same unicorn, but they are related. I guess we have something in common after all."
"That's kind of neat," Pansy said.
"It is. And to answer the question of why I specialize in repairs, it feels good to match a young witch or wizard with their wand, but it feels much better to reunite someone with their friend."
<<<*>>>
Time passed slowly for Pansy as she waited to hear from Luna. That gave Pansy time to think about her interactions with Luna at her shop.
Pansy could believe that the extraordinary feelings that she had while holding Luna's hand were due in some part to the connection between their wands.
But she didn't think that was all of it by half.
In any case, when the message came that her wand was ready, Pansy hurried to take the floo to Diagon Alley.
Luna was standing behind the counter waiting for Pansy when she arrived.
"So you were able to fix her?" Pansy asked.
"It was quite difficult. The negative feelings your ex-girlfriend imparted were extremely strong, but I believe so. Abigail works properly for me. Of course, it only matters whether or not she works properly for you." Luna opened a box and slid it towards Pansy. "The grafting process is not invisible, I'm afraid. You can see a variation in the coloration of the wood where the repairs are. This is not like repairing a broken chair. In essence, one has to re-grow the wand and its core. I did the best I--"
"She's gorgeous! More beautiful than ever! Lovegood, you're a genius!"
"Thank you, but you might want to save the praise until you've tried her out," Luna said.
Pansy's hand trembled as she reached for her wand, and warmth flooded through her body when she picked it up.
"Go ahead, give it a wave," Luna said.
Pansy did, and green, silver, blue and bronze sparks flooded the room and spilled out into the street.
"Merlin! She's better than ever! I need to sit down..."
Luna levitated a chair to her, and Pansy collapsed onto it.
"What was that? I mean, I guess the green and silver was because I was in Slytherin, but where did the blue and bronze come from?" Pansy asked as she fought for breath.
"I can explain that," Luna told her, "but you might not like it."
"I have Abigail back. More than that, I feel closer to her than ever. I feel like I could conjure a dragon, and I suck at conjuration."
"As I said, it was a difficult repair. There was none of the original wood or hair in stock, and both the tree and the unicorn that donated the original material were destroyed during the war," Luna explained.
"So what did you do?"
"Well, I did have in stock some of the wood and hair that my wand was made from, so I used that. I hope you don't mind," Luna said.
"Why would I mind?"
"Because as long as you carry that wand, you are intimately connected to Loony Lovegood."
Pansy laughed.
"I can stand that if you can, Luna. I've been wondering about something. When I first came in and you were asking all those questions, what made you say that you better understood why our wands are so similar?"
"Oh, that. It's no big deal, just that I'm bi as well."
"Imagine that. So our wands are what, cousins?" Pansy asked.
"More like half-sisters, I guess. Watch this," Luna said, as she pulled her wand from her hair.
"I wish I could carry my wand like that, but my hair is too fine and my ears stick out too much," Pansy said.
"Your hair is like silk. I have to practically beat mine into submission in the mornings."
"Sounds like fun," Pansy said with a grin.
"Sometimes it is, if I'm in the mood. Now then, let's hold our wands close together, end-to-end. Not touching, just close."
Pansy did so, and a tiny ball of light appeared between them.
"What's that?" Pansy asked.
"I think perhaps that is a manifestation of the connection between our wands. It's not like the connection between Harry's wand and Voldemort's. The cores are not identical, just very similar. And in order to graft your wand properly, I had to blend my own power with yours."
"That's fascinating, Luna. I can feel your magic with mine, now that you mention it."
"Once I had purged the negativity from Abigail, the grafting went very well. As you use your wand the blending of powers might become seamless, and not noticeable at all. This phenomenon will likely cease to appear. My magic is only to bind things, she is your wand in all respects."
"What do I owe you, Luna?"
"I'm afraid it's kind of a lot..."
"I don't care and it doesn't matter. Money is not among my myriad problems."
Luna told her and Pansy paid up without complaint.
"When do you close?" Pansy asked.
"In a half-hour, why?"
"How about we go out to dinner? My treat, anywhere you want to go," Pansy asked.
Luna regarded her closely.
"Okay, I guess. The Leaky okay with you?"
"Sure, nothing wrong with good, honest, pub food."
"You won't mind being seen with me?"
"As I said, I can stand it if you can. I'll get us a table."
"Okay, I'll meet you there after I close up," Luna said.
"Good. And thank you, Luna. I'll spread the word that Ollivanders is better than ever, you can count on that."
Pansy went straight to the Leaky Cauldron and claimed a table right in the front window. She wanted Luna to see that she had no reservations about being seen with her. She took her wand and conjured a vase of flowers. It was shockingly easy to do.
"Good evening, Ms. Parkinson," Tom greeted her. "What can I get for you?"
"Just gillywater for now, Tom. I'm waiting for someone. Go ahead and prep a bottle of your best champagne, though."
"Certainly. Lovely flowers, by the way. Nice bit of conjuring."
"Thank you. How's the shepherd's pie?"
"Frankly, it's been better. The vegetables we got in were a bit limp. The fish is first rate, though, and so are the chips and sausages."
"Thanks for the warning, I'll keep it to myself, Tom."
"I appreciate that. Although most of my customers won't notice a thing after a few pints. Your drink will be right over."
Pansy sipped her gillywater and waited. She was just beginning to wonder if Luna was really coming when she appeared.
"Sorry, last minute customer," Luna explained.
"No worries, business is business," Pansy said. Pansy waved at Tom and the champagne appeared, along with two glasses.
"Champagne?" Luna asked.
"Well, I feel like celebrating," Pansy said. "If you don't care for champagne, I'll get you whatever you want."
"I love champagne, it just seems kind of extravagant."
"Luna, fixing my wand so well is something I can never adequately repay. Please, order anything you want. If they don't have it here, we'll go someplace else. Oh, in confidence, Tom advised me to skip the shepherd's pie."
"I like fish and chips better anyway," Luna said. "Since when am I 'Luna' to you?"
"Since you fixed my wand. Hell, like you said, we're connected now. I kind of like that. What do you think of the flowers?" Pansy asked.
"They're fabulous. Where did Tom get them?"
"I conjured them," Pansy said.
"I didn't know that you were so good at conjuration."
"I never was, before. I owe that to you. And if you'd rather, I'll call you 'Ms. Lovegood'.
" 'Luna' is fine, Pansy."
Pansy smiled as she poured the champagne. She slid a glass across to Luna and held her own aloft.
"To new friends?" Pansy asked.
"To new friends," Luna said.
The fish and chips really were good, as was the champagne.
"Thank you for dinner, Pansy. I'd best get going now, though."
"Would you like to get dessert at Fortescue's?"
"I'd love to, but I still have things to do at the shop before I can go home."
"Some other time, then?" Pansy asked.
"I'd like that," Luna answered.
<<<*>>>
The next Monday, a messenger delivered an enormous flower arrangement to Ollivanders. There was a card with it, and Luna read --
I just can't stop conjuring flowers, Luna. Since that's your fault, I thought that you should share the burden.
Pansy
Luna put the flowers in her office for safekeeping before going back to work. Later that morning, the bell over the door announced a customer, and Luna left her workroom to greet them.
"Hello, Luna. Did you get the flowers?" asked Pansy.
"Yes. They are gorgeous, thank you. Is Abigail all right?"
"The more I use her the better she gets. I can do things that I have never been able to do before. How is that possible?"
"It's probably because the wand is better suited to you now, that's all," Luna said.
"Could be, I suppose. Umm... I really enjoyed having dinner with you the other night, Luna."
"I'm glad, I had a good time as well," Luna said.
"Are you free for dinner this coming Sunday?"
"I have no plans, so I suppose so."
"Would you like to have dinner together? I know a great restaurant in London," Pansy said.
"Like a date, you mean?"
"No. Not like a date. A date."
"All right then, I accept."
"Is seven o'clock at your house okay to meet?"
"That will be fine, Pansy. I'm looking forward to it. I should really get back to work now, if you would excuse me."
"Sure. I'll see you Sunday then, bye."
"So long, Pansy."
Pansy stopped by the Leaky Cauldron on her way home, and saw Draco and Astoria sitting at a table in the corner. Draco spotted her and waved her over.
"Hi, Pansy, what brings you to the alley? Wand shopping, perhaps?" Draco asked.
"Heard about that, did you?"
"Zabini told us that Lucretia made quite a mess of your wand. He thinks it's funny," Astoria told her.
"Blaise is a git."
"Too right he is. Will you join us for a drink?"
"Thanks, Draco, that would be nice."
"The house ale is good today, will that suit?" Pansy nodded, and Draco got the server's attention, pointed at his empty glass, and held up three fingers.
"The Leaky is a good pub," Astoria said, "but it's really kind of drab. It could use a bit of colour."
"Allow me," Pansy said, and she produced her wand and conjured a vase of roses.
"These are beautiful, Pansy!" Astoria said. "Roses are my favorites!"
"I remembered that from your wedding."
"What the hell is going on, Pansy? You've never been able to conjure worth a damn. I guess the new wand is a good one. Ollivanders? I heard it was open again."
"Ollivanders, yes. New, no. Look closer, Draco."
"Ollivander repaired it? I would never have believed it possible."
"Ollivander is retired, the new owner repaired it," Pansy told him.
"Well, they must be even better than he was. I've never heard of a wand that badly damaged being properly repaired."
"Oh, it's better than ever. The new owner is a brilliant wandsmith, especially with wands that have a unicorn hair core."
"Wandsmith?" Draco queried.
"Wandsmiths specialize in repairs, darling," Astoria explained. "There are not many of them, as it is a difficult process."
"Well, Pansy, are you going to tell us who this extraordinary wizard is?" Draco asked.
"Witch. It's Luna Lovegood."
Draco's chin hit his chest.
"You're having me on."
"Not a bit of it, Ollivander says he's never seen her match."
"You should have her take a look at yours, darling," Astoria said.
"Something wrong with your wand, Draco?"
"It just seems sort of... reluctant, I guess. It works, usually, but spells are getting more and more difficult to do. Sometimes things just don't come out right."
"Have Luna take a look at it," Pansy said. "I'll keep an eye on your ale."
"Sure you will. But if she can fix the mess Lucretia made of yours, she might be able to do something for mine. That is, if she doesn't just throw me out of her shop or hex me."
"She's a businesswoman, Draco. It's what she does for a living. Just be polite, she doesn't have to like you to do her job."
"Right. I might as well see what she says, then. Enjoy my ale, Pansy. I'll be back soon. I hope."
Luna responded to the bell to find Draco Malfoy standing at the counter.
"Hello, Ms. Lovegood," he said formally, "Pansy tells me that you did a marvelous job repairing her wand. I've seen it in action, and I'm quite impressed. That wand was hacked to pieces from what I hear."
"Did you come here merely to pay me a compliment? Because that doesn't sound like the Draco Malfoy I remember."
"No, I suppose it doesn't. But I am here as a customer. Something is wrong with my wand, and I'd like to get a professional's opinion before I look for a new one."
"That's what I do for a living. Just put it on the counter, please."
Draco did so, and Luna peered closely at it.
"Hawthorn and unicorn tail hair, correct? Made by Mr. Ollivander?"
"Yes to both," Draco said. He started a bit when Luna produced her wand. Luna hid a smile.
She whispered diagnostic spells as she passed her wand along Draco's, and after a few moments she tucked her wand back behind her ear.
"There is a minute fracture in the wood that should be simple to repair, but the core is intact. Tell me, does it seem to you that your wand just doesn't want to work for you?"
"Yes. How on earth could you tell that?" Draco asked in wonder.
"It's my job to be able to tell things like that. The real problem is that your wand's feelings are hurt. I can tell that you maintain it well, but can you recall anything that might have happened to cause this?"
"Wands have feelings?" Draco asked.
"Of course they do. Do you know when this started?"
"It hasn't really felt right since Harry gave it back to me, I guess."
"Were you happy to get it back?"
"Of course I was," Draco said.
"Well, your wand doesn't seem to think so."
"What needs to be done, then? I like this wand. I don't want to get another one, but I need it to work properly."
"I'll repair the fracture. That's a reasonably simple procedure, and I can do it now. But you need to renew your bond with it," she told him.
"How do I do that?"
"Keep it near you at all times, even when you're sleeping. Polish it often. But the most important thing to do is simply to play with it. Do silly spells, fun transfigurations and conjurations. Cheering charms and such. Don't just use it for work. Unicorn wands are very loyal, but yours just isn't sure that you really want it."
"Amazing. Would you go ahead and fix it, then? And I'll need some wand care supplies, whatever you recommend."
"Of course, it should only take a moment. I'll be right back."
Luna carried the wand to her workshop, and a short time later Draco saw a glow from behind the curtain. Luna returned and handed him the wand.
"It feels better already. Thank you, Ms. Lovegood."
"You're welcome. Here is our best wand care kit. This one is made especially for hawthorn and it will actually strengthen and refresh the wood. The total charge is twenty-seven galleons."
"Here's fifty, keep the change," Draco said. "I know several people whose wands are a little wonky. Do you work with cores other than unicorn? If so, I'll send them 'round."
"Yes. I work with unicorn, phoenix feather, and dragon heartstring like Mr. Ollivander did. I have also had some success with veela hair, thestral tail hair, and kneazle whisker. I can work with nearly any wood, certainly any European variety."
"I'll spread the word. Best of luck with your business, it's wonderful to have Ollivanders back. Good day, Ms. Lovegood."
"Well?" Pansy said when Draco resumed his seat.
"You were right, Luna Lovegood is brilliant. Did you know that wands have feelings?"
"Of course they do, you great prat," Astoria said. "Honestly, Pansy, do you see what I have to put up with?"
"You're tougher than you look, Astoria."
"Thanks, ladies. Pansy, we're having a small dinner party this Sunday," Draco said, "would you care to join us?"
"I appreciate the invitation, but I have a date with Luna," Pansy said.
"An hour ago I would have said that you were crazy, but now I just wish you luck."
"Thanks, Draco."
Pansy found herself in Ollivanders twice more during the week to get supplies for Abigail's care, and advice on the same.
Really, that was why.
<<<*>>>
Pansy knocked on Luna's door precisely at seven on Sunday evening. She barely had time to tuck her handkerchief away after drying her palms before Luna answered the door. Pansy wasn't used to being nervous about a date.
"You're beautiful!" Pansy blurted when she saw Luna.
"Thank you, Pansy. Come on in, I just need to feed Melody and then we can go."
"No rush, who's Melody?"
"My kneazle friend. Melody, say hello to Pansy."
"Prrrttt," said Melody.
"Good evening to you, too, Melody. I am pleased to make your acquaintance," Pansy replied. Luna smiled at the courtesy, and Melody rubbed against Pansy's leg.
"She seems to like you, Pansy."
"That's a good thing, right?"
"Very. Come on, sweetheart, let's get your dinner," Luna said. She returned shortly.
"All set. Floo or Apparition?" Luna asked.
"Apparition, it's a muggle restaurant. I'll land us nearby, if you'll trust me not to splinch you."
"I'll take my chances," Luna said. "And Pansy, you look kind of beautiful yourself. That's a lovely suit."
They linked arms, and Pansy Disapparated them. Melody recognized the sound, finished her dinner, and then jumped onto Luna's bed and curled up on her pillow.
"Are you okay?" Pansy asked Luna when they arrived in the shielded area in a small park.
"Yes, that was nicely done, Pansy. Very smooth."
"Thanks, the restaurant is just up the street."
They walked the short distance arm-in-arm. It felt comfortable to them.
The dinner was excellent, and Luna suggested a stroll in the park before they went home since the evening was fine and fair. Pansy readily agreed.
"Thank you for the lovely dinner, Pansy."
"My pleasure, I'm glad you enjoyed it."
"I must also thank you for the increase in business. Draco has sent several people in for repairs already."
"Good. Expect more customers from the Foundation as well. A lot of wands were damaged or lost during the war."
The Parkinson Foundation had been established after the war to comply with the reparations the Parkinsons had to pay for their role in aiding Voldemort. Mr. Parkinson was dead, and somewhat to her surprise, Pansy got a lot of satisfaction from running things.
They walked slowly for a time in comfortable silence.
"The night really is beautiful, and I've had a marvelous time with you, but I do need to get home now. I'm sorry," Luna said.
"Nothing to be sorry about, and I've had a wonderful time with you, too. Shall we go?"
Pansy offered her arm, and Luna took it, smiling.
They landed neatly by Luna's front door.
"Would you like a cup of tea, Pansy? I have a very nice herbal blend."
"Yes, thank you."
Luna let them into the house.
"Have a seat, I'll be back with the tea," Luna said.
Pansy took a seat on the couch, and in a moment Melody hopped into her lap and settled down, purring loudly.
Luna came into the room carrying a tea tray.
"Oh, is she bothering you? I can move her if you want."
"She's no bother at all. Actually, a lap kneazle is a very nice thing," Pansy said.
"She never does that. Not with anyone but me," Luna said.
"Maybe it's something to do with how our wands are bound together?"
"Could be, I suppose. Tea's ready, how do you take yours?"
"On its own, please, Luna."
Pansy accepted her cup and took a sip.
"Delicious! Where do you get this?"
"It's my own blend, I'll give you some to take home with you."
Pansy enjoyed her tea and idly stroked Melody. The kneazle's purring was the loudest sound in the room. Luna covered a yawn.
"Time for me to go," Pansy said, "thank you for a wonderful evening, Luna. And for the tea."
"You're welcome. I had a splendid time with you as well."
Pansy gently evicted Melody, who immediately curled up on the spot Pansy had vacated. Luna escorted her to the door and handed her a package of the tea.
"Well, goodnight, Luna," Pansy said as she opened the door. She had just stepped outside when Luna said--
"Pansy, wait a moment."
Pansy stopped and turned back to Luna, who gave her a brief but firm kiss on the lips.
"Pleasant dreams, Pansy," she said as she softly closed the door.
<<<*>>>
Luna was not surprised by the delivery of flowers on Monday, but it did put a smile on her face.
So did Pansy's visits, which happened a few times that week. As Pansy had regular Foundation business at Gringotts, this was perhaps not all that surprising. And they really had enjoyed their date.
She was, however, surprised at the growing feelings that she had for Pansy. Surprised, and a little frightened. There was their history to consider, and it was impossible to really tell what of the feelings she had came from the blending of their magic and what was just them. And she needed to know.
Still, when Pansy showed up at lunchtime Friday with a bag from Fortescue's, she was glad to see her.
"How is Abigail getting on?" she asked.
"Absolutely splendidly. I just felt like bringing you some ice cream. I didn't know what you prefer, so I got several different flavors."
"Thank you. Come on, we can eat at my desk."
Luna led the way, and Pansy set out the cartons of ice cream.
"Take your pick, Luna. I never met an ice cream I didn't like, so it doesn't matter to me."
"Just stopping by like usual, Pansy?"
"No, actually I wanted to see if you'd like to go out this weekend."
"Oh. Sorry, but no. I have plans," Luna said.
"I see." Pansy could not completely hide her disappointment.
"I'm expecting a guest for the weekend."
"I'd better get going. Enjoy the ice cream, and have a good time with your guest."
"Well, if you aren't going to have some ice cream, at least tell me if you're coming to my house this evening, or Saturday morning."
"Huh?"
"I'm inviting you to spend the weekend at my house. It's my turn to feed you, and Melody seems to miss you."
"Oh."
"Clearly, Pansy, hunger has rendered you monosyllabic. Have some ice cream."
Pansy sat and picked a carton at random.
"You were teasing me," Pansy said at length.
"Yes."
"Well done. I'll see you tonight at seven. Can I bring anything?"
"I don't have much of a wine cellar, so if you want that you might bring something you like. Other than that, just bring yourself and your personal items."
"Okay."
The day passed quickly, and Pansy appeared at Luna's precisely at seven.
"Come on in," Luna greeted her. "Supper will be ready soon."
"I brought some wine, where shall I put it?"
"Just follow me to the kitchen and plop it on the table."
"Prrrttt!" Melody said, emphatically.
"Hi, sweetheart," Pansy said. "I'm happy to see you too."
Pansy managed to avoid tripping over Melody on the way to the kitchen, but it was a near thing.
"I made spaghetti," Luna said, "I hope that's all right."
"It's great, thanks. Do I smell bread baking? '
"You might, I'm baking some," Luna said with a smile.
"Can I help with anything?"
"Check on the bread, it should be done."
"How would I tell?" Pansy asked. "I've never baked anything."
"Then stir the sauce while I check on it. It's just like making potions, but you don't have to count the stirs and the direction doesn't matter."
"Got it."
Luna took the bread from the oven, and in a very short time they were seated at the kitchen table with loaded plates and full glasses.
"This is delicious, Luna," Pansy declared after her first bite.
"I'm glad you like it. Is it okay to talk while we eat, or would you rather finish supper first?"
"I'm fine with it. What do you want to talk about?"
"Us," Luna said.
"What about us?" Pansy asked, and she put her fork down.
"Where are we headed with our relationship? Where are we now? What do we really feel for each other? A few weeks ago we weren't even friends. We are now, but I think I feel more than that. Do you? Do you even know? The wand magic undoubtedly is affecting us, but is that all? Things have been moving very quickly for us. You've been giving me flowers and coming by the shop a lot."
"So you think we should slow things down, then?" Pansy asked. She felt a little hollow at the thought, but Luna was right. Things had been moving very quickly.
"On the contrary, I want to speed things up. That's why I invited you here. We have the whole weekend to ourselves. No work, no other people to consider, just the two of us. We can concentrate on each other, see how we get along together when it's just us. What do you think?"
"I think it's a wonderful idea! Will Melody mind?"
"She's all in favor of it."
"Thanks, Melody," Pansy said.
"Mmmrrr."
"Okay, then, let's finish eating and then we'll relax a while and discuss sleeping arrangements," Luna said.
They chatted aimlessly during their meal, took care of the dishes, and then retired to the couch. Melody managed to get Luna to move closer to Pansy by burrowing between Luna and the arm of the couch.
"Thanks for having me here, Luna. This is nice."
"You're welcome, and thanks for coming. May I touch your hair?"
"Sure."
Luna stroked Pansy's hair gently, and let it slip through her fingers.
"Just like silk. It feels amazing, like a cool shower, almost."
"I like it when you do that. May I touch yours?"
"Of course, that's what this weekend is for, to really explore things about each other."
Pansy ran her hand over Luna's hair and then took a handful of it and squeezed.
"It's so thick! I've never felt anything like it. It's actually heavy."
"I'll bet yours is easier to brush, though," Luna said.
"Well, let's find out. I've got a hairbrush in my bag."
Pansy got her brush and turned to Luna.
"Who goes first?"
"I'll do you first," Luna said. "Here, sit on the floor in front of me."
Pansy did, and soon relaxed and leaned against Luna's leg while Luna brushed her hair.
"The brush just glides through it. Incredible. It's like brushing moonlight. Or what I imagine brushing moonlight would be like."
"I might fall asleep, Luna."
"Go ahead, I'm enjoying myself."
"No, it's my turn now," Pansy said.
They switched positions, and Pansy took the brush to Luna's hair.
Melody took care of her own grooming, so as to participate.
"I love the way your hair feels, Luna. It's so rich. It does take a bit of effort to brush it, though. Am I hurting you? Am I pulling too hard?"
"No, I'm used to it. I kind of like it, frankly. I like it better when you do it, though."
Luna reached up and felt her hair.
"That's really nice, Pansy. It might not be such a mess in the morning."
Melody yawned. So did Pansy and Luna.
"I think Melody is right," Pansy said. "I'm pretty sleepy."
"So am I," Luna agreed, "let me show you where you'll sleep, and where the bathroom and things are."
Pansy followed Luna down a short hallway to a room with a double bed.
"The loo is right through there," Luna said. "I cleared out the top two drawers in the dresser for you. Towels and things are in the little closet in the bathroom."
"Thank you. This is a lovely room, where's your bedroom?"
"This is my bedroom, Pansy."
"Oh. I can't kick you out of your own bed, Luna."
"I certainly hope that you don't. I want us to sleep together."
"What?"
"Don't panic, I really mean sleep. I want to see how we get along close together, how comfortable we are, how trusting of each other. Those things are much more important than sex."
"I didn't bring any nightclothes, Luna. I usually sleep nude."
"That might be a little much for our first night together. I have gowns and pajamas you can wear. I'll bet you're pretty without clothes, though."
"I'm nothing special in that regard, trust me. I'll take the pajamas so you won't be disappointed."
Luna took a pair from a drawer and gave them to Pansy.
"I'll give you some privacy. Call out when you're done and I'll take my turn then, Pansy."
"Okay, and thanks."
"I'll go see to Melody," Luna said, and she closed the door behind her.
Pansy sat on the bed and took several deep breaths. When Luna decided to speed things up, she didn't take half-measures. Still, as nervous as she was, Pansy was looking forward to the night.
She debated whether or not to shower, but decided it was the best course of action since she was going to be sleeping with Luna.
I'm going to sleep with Luna...
She showered quickly, dried off, put on the pajamas and climbed into bed.
"All set in here," she called out, and in a moment Luna came into the room.
"Are you comfortable? Is the bed all right?" Luna asked.
"The bed is very comfortable, and the pajamas are nice and soft, thank you."
Luna smiled and nodded, got a gown and went into the bathroom. Pansy really was sleepy, but she stayed awake until Luna emerged from the bathroom. The light behind her plainly showed the outline of her body through the thin gown. Luna was slender, but Pansy already knew that. Still, she was mesmerized.
Luna shut off the bathroom light, leaving only the small reading lamp for illumination.
"Melody will likely join us during the night. Do you want me to shut the door?"
"No, it's her house. I don't want to disrupt her routine any more than I already have. She won't be a bother."
"Okay."
Luna walked to Pansy's side of the bed.
"Do you think a goodnight kiss would be okay?"
"Let's find out."
Luna slipped her fingers into Pansy's hair, and their lips met. It was a gentle kiss, and it lingered, and it felt just right.
"I'd say that was much better than okay, Luna," Pansy whispered.
"So would I. Goodnight, Pansy. Sleep well."
Perhaps surprisingly, they both slept well. They didn't even notice when Melody joined them. Melody saw them snuggled together like spoons, and approved. She could feel how contented Luna was, and she curled up by their feet and closed her eyes, purring.
<<<*>>>
Pansy woke before either Luna or Melody. Luna was snug against her back, one of her arms draped across Pansy's waist. Pansy was warm, and happy, and had no wish at all to be anywhere other than where she was. It was a unique combination of feelings for her, so she lay very still and enjoyed it.
In a little while Luna's arm tightened around her, and a soft kiss landed on her neck.
"Good morning Pansy, did you sleep well?" Luna whispered.
"Like a very happy stone," Pansy said. "And you?"
"The same. I guess that answers the question of how comfortable we are together rather conclusively."
"I would say so, yes," Pansy said.
"Prrrttt! Mmmmrrrow."
"Her highness is hungry," Luna said.
"Then we must attend her. May I fix breakfast for us? I can't bake, but I make a decent omelet."
"Of course. I'll see to Melody."
Luna gave Pansy another squeeze, and then rose and left the room, following the hungry kneazle.
Pansy went into the bathroom and took care of her immediate needs. She had opened the door to go and fix breakfast when a thought struck her, and she turned and faced herself in the mirror.
"I look the same as ever," she said, "that doesn't seem right." She took a closer look, and found some differences. Her face was relaxed, her eyes wide, her brow was not furrowed, her lips were not pursed. She was so fascinated by these small changes that she did not hear Luna come up behind her.
"That face is well worth a look," Luna said, "shall I go ahead and fix breakfast?"
"What have you done to me, Luna?" Pansy whispered.
"Nothing but be close to you without expectations."
Pansy kissed Luna on the cheek.
"Thank you."
Pansy went to start breakfast, and Luna tended to her own morning routine before joining Pansy in the kitchen.
"Are you going to stay in those pajamas all day?" Luna asked.
"Maybe. Do you mind?"
"Not a bit, although I do feel a bit over-dressed," Luna said.
"That's easy enough to take care of if you want to. I'm not fussed. I've found the eggs, salt and pepper, and butter that I need. Where do you keep your herbs?"
"Follow me," Luna said, and she led Pansy out the back door. "There you go," she said, pointing to a large herb garden.
"Amazing. That's a beautiful garden, Luna."
"Thank you, it's special to me. I planted it in memory of those lost in the war. The herbs aren't labeled, I'm afraid."
"That's okay. I know what they look like." Pansy carefully gathered the herbs she wanted and returned to the kitchen.
"I'll make tea," Luna said, and Pansy set to work.
Soon enough, the smell of the omelets filled the air. Even Melody seemed interested.
"They're ready," Pansy said. "You know, Snape was actually a pretty good teacher. Lots of the potion-making techniques he taught us translate to cooking."
"Yes, they do. The omelets smell wonderful, Pansy. The tea is ready."
"Pprrrtt?"
"You may have a tiny piece, Melody. Some of the herbs are not easy for kneazles to digest," Luna said.
"I made her a small one with just egg and a bit of cheese," Pansy told Luna.
"That was very kind of you, thank you."
"My pleasure. Here we are..."
Breakfast was a success, and Melody gave Pansy a head-butt of thanks before finding a good patch of sunlight to wash up and sleep in.
Luna and Pansy did the dishes and then sat on a bench in the garden.
"It's beautiful here, Luna."
"I'm glad that you like it. It's better with you, though."
Pansy took Luna's hand.
"What now?" Pansy asked.
"Let's just enjoy the moment," Luna answered, letting her head rest on Pansy's shoulder. "Sometimes not caring what's next is nice."
Sitting in the warmth of the morning sun, feeling the softness of Luna's hair touching her cheek, breathing in the light fragrance of her skin, Pansy found herself in complete agreement.
They said little during the morning, but learned much. Simply being together filled the spaces that needed filling. They read, and played with Melody, or just watched in fascination as she went about the business of being a kneazle.
Lunch was a Greek salad with things from the garden, cheese that Luna had made with goat's milk that she had from Aberforth, and the bread left from last nights' dinner.
"Do you feel up to a walk?" Luna asked.
"I'd love to. Should I change first?"
"Never change, Pansy. Please. But you might want to put on some shoes," Luna said with a smile.
"Goose," Pansy responded. "I'll be right back."
Pansy returned momentarily in jeans and a t-shirt, wearing a pair of trainers.
"I'm ready, lead on!" she said.
They walked through the garden and exited through a gate. They could hear rushing water and soon came to a swiftly flowing stream.
"Beautiful," Pansy said.
"Yes, it is. But just you wait. Follow me."
Pansy did so willingly, enjoying the beauty of the river, and the sunlight on Luna's hair, and the sight of Luna walking in front of her. There was nothing else at all on her mind.
Soon enough, the sound of moving water got louder, until a turn in the path revealed a wide pool that was being fed by a small waterfall.
"This is one of my favorite places," Luna said.
"Mine too, now," Pansy said. "I've never seen anything like it. The water is so clear!"
"I love to relax in this pool. It's a little cold, but you get used to it pretty quickly."
"Shall we?" Pansy asked.
By way of reply, Luna undressed and waded into the pool.
Pansy certainly didn't avert her eyes, but without her clothes Luna was simply Luna without her clothes. She was still slender, her breasts were still small, and she really was pretty, but Pansy didn't feel anything different looking at Luna naked than clothed, or silhouetted by a bathroom light. She was always enthralled by the sight of her.
And so Pansy just undressed and joined Luna in the cool, clear water.
Luna smiled at her and took her hand, and they waded out until the water covered their shoulders.
Luna was more excited that Pansy had not hesitated to join her than she was at seeing her naked. Pansy's waist was kind of thick, and her breasts were nice and pert, but all that Luna saw was Pansy, the same as ever. Luna thought she was beautiful.
They faced each other and ducked under the water. They could see each other clearly, their hair floating about them. They smiled, and kissed in the embrace of the water and their own arms. The kiss deepened, and their tongues touched, and only the need to breathe ended it. They stood and embraced, and that was all that either of them wanted or needed.
Being together as themselves, in this beautiful place, was enough.
Supper was ice cream, just because.
The postprandial cleanup didn't take long, and they sat on the bench in the garden with Melody, listening to the bugs and the frogs and the birds and looking at the stars until they got too sleepy to appreciate the concert.
Having already crossed the nudity line, Pansy decided to sleep as she usually did and just showered and got into bed. Luna joined her wearing a gown as she usually did, and they lay there in silence for a while, just looking into each other's eyes.
"I love you, Luna."
"Do you want to make love, Pansy?"
"I think that's all we've been doing since I got here," Pansy answered. "If you mean do I want to have sex, then no, I don't, and I don't quite understand that. I just don't need that to be happy or satisfied. I don't need sex. I need to be with you. This has been the best time of my life, and sex wouldn't make it any better. It wouldn't make me feel any closer to you."
"I feel the same way, Pansy. It's like... sex carries expectations. It's stressful, in a way."
"Yes! I love seeing you without clothes, you're beautiful, everything I could ask for. But I get the same feelings looking at you when you're dressed. Here we are in bed. I'm naked and all you have on is that thin gown. I want to touch you, hold you, kiss you, but I'm not what I'd call aroused. I'm just...full of love for you."
Luna kissed her and held her close.
"I know what you mean. Sex will happen when we're both ready for it, and I know it will be beautiful. But enough thinking," Luna whispered. "Let's just hold each other and feel."
When Melody joined them, Pansy and Luna were in such a close embrace that they were sharing Pansy's pillow. She squinted in satisfaction and took possession of Luna's.
<<<*>>>
They woke simultaneously Sunday morning, and rose together.
"You go first today," Pansy said, "I'll attend to her grace."
"Okay."
Her morning routine complete, Luna dressed and found Pansy sitting in the garden.
"Your turn in the loo, Pansy."
"What? Oh, right. Sorry, my mind was wandering."
"Let it wander where it will go. It might find something interesting," Luna said.
Pansy touched Luna on the way by, just because she was there.
Luna was busy making scones when Pansy came into the kitchen.
"I love scones," Pansy said.
"Good. These are nearly ready for the oven. There are some nice strawberries too, would you like anything else?"
"Butter for the scones and cream for the strawberries would be nice, shall I make tea?
"Please."
Breakfast was a leisurely affair. There was nothing they had to do, and it was pleasant in the kitchen with a light breeze bringing in the scents from the garden. Neither of them felt a need to talk just to fill the silence, but Pansy did have something on her mind.
They went outside and sat together on the garden bench.
"Let's try that thing with our wands," Pansy said.
"Okay, but try not to be disappointed if it doesn't happen again."
They held their wands close together, and the little ball of light appeared. It seemed to be brighter.
"That's interesting," Luna said.
"I have a thought about this, Luna."
"Yes?"
"Suppose our cores weren't from relatives, but from mates?"
"It's possible. That might better explain why the graft was so successful," Luna said.
"Let's do it again, but I'll hold yours and you hold mine."
They swapped wands and held them end to end again, and this time the ball of light was noticeably brighter.
"I did not expect that," Luna said.
"Let's try conjuring something and see how that goes."
Luna offered Pansy's wand back to her.
"Not yet, let's use each other's wands for this. I'll stick with my flowers since we both know how they turn out."
Pansy cast the spell she had perfected for the flowers she sent to Luna.
"Well," Pansy said, "they do seem to be flowers, but..."
"Not up to your usual standard. Interesting. I'll try something with your wand."
Something appeared, but...
"Is that a snake?" Pansy asked.
"It's supposed to be a measuring tape. I use those a lot in my work, but I tend to mislay them. I can do that spell in my sleep. Let's swap back and try again."
This time things worked as expected. Luna vanished her efforts, and Pansy was about to do the same with hers.
"Please don't," Luna said quickly. "I want to keep them both. They're from you."
Pansy kissed Luna on the cheek.
"So, the connection between our wands seems stronger when I'm holding yours and you're holding mine, but our magic works better when we use our own wands, right?" Pansy asked.
"Yes. I would expect spells to go better with our own wands, but I'm not sure why it's the other way 'round with the connection."
"Let's assume that the unicorns that gave the hairs for our cores really were mates, for now. We might even be able to verify that later on."
"That makes sense, and it really does help explain why the graft was so successful. The hairs did seem eager to bond, once the bad energy was gone," Luna said.
"Tell me; is it possible that in addition to the wood from your tree and the hair from the mates, that when you did the grafting some sort of essence from our wands themselves blended together?"
"It is, yes. There was certainly an exchange of power, and it was much more intense than usual. I thought that was because the damage was so extensive. I'd never grafted such a badly damaged wand before. Now that I think of it, Penelope wasn't tired at all afterwards. She seemed -- thrilled."
"So did Abigail. I figured she was just glad to see me," Pansy said, grinning.
"We've had those wands since we were children. I know that a witch or wizard's power influences a wand with time and use, do you suppose the opposite is true as well?" Luna asked.
"Could be, I guess."
Luna's face fell.
"What's wrong?" Pansy asked.
"Then maybe we only think we're in love because our unicorns were. What if what we feel isn't real? I can't bear being just another one of your mistakes, Pansy!"
Tears appeared in Luna's eyes, and Pansy wrapped her arms around Luna and held her tightly.
"You are not a mistake! I've never felt anything this real in my life, and I just don't think that's what's going on here, Luna."
"What else could it be?"
"Using magic to create love doesn't work. Love potions, no matter how powerful, only create obsession. There is no joy, no contentment, only compulsion. It's really dark magic, Luna. Casting Imperio on someone might compel them to stay with you, but it can't make them love you. I've experienced them both and it's horrific."
Pansy stopped talking and kissed the tears from Luna's eyes. She was rewarded with a fragile smile.
"I've been in love before, or what I believed was love, and it wasn't what we have. Before, there was always a desire for more of something. I could spend the rest of my life just sitting beside you and be perfectly content."
"So have I, and I feel the same way," Luna said "But that could still be our wands, couldn't it?"
"I don't think so. Well, I believe they are involved in a way. But not in a causative manner."
"Go on," Luna said, interested.
"The wand chooses the witch, right?
"Of course."
"So what I think happened, is that our wands chose us because they sensed in us something close to what our unicorns sensed in each other," Pansy said.
"Then why weren't we at least friends when we were in school?"
"Because we weren't finished becoming ourselves, the people we really are. We weren't ready," Pansy said.
"So our wands waited until we were all grown up to bring us together? That's a bit of a stretch, Pansy."
"I agree. No, our wands didn't bring us together. I don't even think they brought themselves together, the cores just recognized each other when they were grafted. My wand was damaged. I heard that Ollivanders was open again, so of course I took it there. Where else? And I found you."
"Well, that was hardly love at first sight," Luna said.
"No, but I came back, didn't I?"
"Only because you had no option."
"I had a world of options, but I picked you. I thought it was because only you might have a chance of fixing my wand, but now I think it was more than that. I wanted to come to you because part of me was responding to you. I needed to come to you. I really didn't believe Abigail could be saved, frankly," Pansy admitted.
"So where does that leave us, Pansy?"
"There is really no explaining love, is there?"
"No," agreed Luna.
"We're in love, and it is a new experience of love for both of us. It's comfortable, relaxing, secure. Different, in a word."
Luna nodded.
"I believe that what we have together is something like--"
" unicorn love," Luna whispered.
"Yes," Pansy said, and Luna kissed her thoroughly.
"Unicorns mate for life you know, Pansy."
"Good."
<3
L
b>Title: Unicorn Love
Author/Artist:Lash_Larue
Recipient: Nifflers-n-nargles
Rating: PG-13
Pairing(s):Luna/Pansy
Summary: Love is where it finds you
Warnings: A bit fluffy.
Word Count/Art Style: 9500
Author's Notes:Thank you for the interesting prompts! I hope that I left an adequate trail down this particular rabbit hole. Postwar, non-specific timeframe. Some characters might not have been alive according to canon, but they are only mentioned in passing. My thanks to Magnetic_Pole for bringing a bit of order to this chaos.
Unicorn Love
Pansy Parkinson entered Ollivanders carrying the pieces of her wand. She had been thrilled to hear that the shop was open again, as she thought that only Ollivander would have a chance of repairing it.
"Hello? You have a customer," she called out.
"I'll be right with you," came the reply from someone who was obviously not Ollivander.
"Must be a shop girl," Pansy thought. "I suppose he needs the help, old as he is."
"Welcome to Ollivanders, how may I help-- Parkinson--" Luna Lovegood stopped abruptly and stared at Pansy, who returned the stare with interest.
"What are you doing here, Lovegood?"
"Obviously, I work here. Now then, what brings you in today?"
Luna remembered Pansy with small affection, but a customer was a customer.
"My wand is broken. I was hoping that Mr. Ollivander might be able to fix it."
"Let me see it, please -- oh dear, how did this happen?" Luna asked, looking at the four pieces of Pansy's wand on the counter.
"What does it matter? Can he fix it?"
"The circumstances of the damage matter. If it was done deliberately and with malice, it is much more difficult to repair because that damages the spirit of the wand," Luna told her. "In this case the core is severed in three places as well, which further complicates things."
Luna picked up the longest piece and examined it closely.
"Willow and unicorn tail hair, correct?"
"Yes."
"That surprises me a bit," Luna said.
"Why does that surprise you?"
"Because the wand that Mr. Ollivander made for me after we were rescued from the Death Eaters is willow and unicorn tail hair. I would never have guessed that our wands would be so similar. We don't seem to have much in common, you and I."
"Thank Merlin for that. Can he fix it or not?"
"No, he cannot. Mr. Ollivander is retired and not in very good health. The shop is mine, now."
Pansy's jaw dropped.
"But I believe that it might be possible to repair it. The core is still active even though it is severed. Unicorn tail hair is very resilient, and this wand seems to be quite fond of you, for some reason."
"I've had it since I was six. I love that wand, and I always took good care of it. Until this happened, that is."
"Wands appreciate being cared for, and apart from being broken, the wood is indeed in splendid condition. So what happened?"
"My girlfriend and I broke up," Pansy said. "She took a cleaver to it."
"Girlfriend? I didn't know you were gay, Parkinson."
"I'm not, I'm bi. Not that it's any of your business, and what do you care, anyway?"
"I don't, I was just surprised. I understand better why our wands are similar now, though. So malice was involved in the damage. Why did you break up?" Luna questioned. "And before you ask, yes, it matters. You and this wand were intimately connected, your feelings and actions influence it."
"I made a mistake," Pansy said, and her face turned red.
"What sort of mistake?"
"I cheated on her and got caught, okay?" Pansy blurted.
"Apparently, it wasn't okay with her," Luna said. "Are you still involved with the person you cheated on her with?"
"No. He was beautiful, and I was drunk. I thought I could get away with it, but Blaise Zabini saw us and ratted on me. Blaise was another mistake. I went out with him for a while after Hogwarts. He's a narcissistic asshole. So was Draco, for that matter, when we were dating. He's not so bad now, though. I'm friends with him and Astoria. Frankly, I don't have a very good track record with relationships."
"Take my hand," Luna said.
"Why?"
"I need to assess the strength of the connection between you and your wand. I'll hold the handle portion of your wand and see if it can still sense you."
Pansy took the offered hand, and after a moment felt a tingle that started in her hand and spread throughout her body. It was as pleasant as it was surprising.
"That's enough," Luna said, and Pansy reluctantly let go of her. "I believe that I can repair your wand. It wants to be with you."
"For some reason, right?"
"Right." Luna said. "The wand chooses the witch. It doesn't have to make sense to us who the wand picks. It will take several days. I'll need to find compatible wood and hair to do the grafting. Mr. Ollivander made it, didn't he?"
"Yes."
"That will help, there will be records of where the wood and the core came from. It's even possible that there is material in stock to fix it," Luna said.
"Maybe I should take it to Gregorovitch. I mean, you're kind of new at this, aren't you?"
"Gregorovitch cannot work with unicorn cores. Unicorns dislike him. Do you really think that Ollivander would have trusted me with his legacy if I were not up to the task? But if you don't want 'Loony Lovegood' working on your wand, take it and get out."
<<<*>>>
Pansy gave a treat to the post owl when it arrived at her home, then she retrieved the letter it carried. She opened it quickly and read --
You have been informed correctly, Ms. Parkinson. I do not work with unicorn tail hair, ever. I do not like unicorns, nor do they care for me. As I am sure you know, I specialize in dragon heartstring. I invite you to come to my shop should you wish to replace your damaged wand with something more solid and reliable.
Tussaud's in France has a fine reputation, but they work mostly with Veela hair. In my experience this makes for a rather fickle wand, although they can be extremely powerful.
There are some decent wandmakers in North America, but none of them work with unicorn hair at all.
From your description of the damage, I think it extremely unlikely that your wand can be repaired. But if you insist on trying to, Ollivander informs me that the woman now in charge of his shop is the most gifted wandsmith he has ever seen. Especially with unicorn hair.
Regards,
Mykew Gregorovitch
"Well, shit," Pansy said aloud. "I don't fancy one of those clunky Gregorovitch wands, nor taking a trans-continental portkey. So I either take my chances in France or deal with Lovegood."
Pansy looked ruefully at the pieces of her wand.
"Ollivander himself couldn't fix this mess. I should just go to France."
Pansy ran her hands roughly through her hair.
"But I'm not. I'm going back to Lovegood," she sighed. "I need to."
"Shit."
<<<*>>>
"You were right, Lovegood. Gregorovitch doesn't work with unicorn hair. Are you willing to try and fix mine?"
"It's my job, Ms. Parkinson," Luna said. "I'm in business and don't make a habit of turning away customers. You do understand that I cannot promise that it will be just like it was, don't you? The damage is extensive, both physically and magically."
"Yes, I understand that. Frankly, I'm surprised that you think it's possible at all. Gregorovitch certainly doesn't. But he said Ollivander called you the most gifted wandsmith he's ever seen. Is 'wandsmith' just another name for wandmaker?"
"Not precisely. A wandsmith has a special interest in repairing wands. All wandsmiths are wandmakers, but not all wandmakers are wandsmiths," Luna said.
"Oh. It seems that I'm in the right place after all, then. Listen, Lovegood, I... I hope you don't hold it against me that I checked with Gregorovitch. It's just that I... well, you know, I..."
"You love this wand, and you think I'm a little crazy," Luna finished. Pansy turned red. "I likely am a little crazy, but sometimes a lunatic is just what you need. Your wand is in good hands with me, Ms. Parkinson, never fear."
Pansy handed over the pieces of her wand, and Luna gently placed them in a box.
"Why do you specialize in repairing wands? It seems like it would be more difficult than making them," Pansy asked.
"Oh, it is. It is also more challenging and more rewarding. Do you remember how it felt when your wand chose you?"
"Yes, I do. I'd never been so excited in my life. It was a wonderful feeling," Pansy said.
"Then imagine how wonderful it will feel when I return Abigail to you, healed."
"Abigail! How did you know I named her that? I've never told anyone."
"I learned it through your connection with her when we tested that the last time you were here," Luna told her. "This is Penelope," Luna said as she pulled her wand from behind her ear. "It turns out that our wands are even more similar than I thought. I looked yours up, and the unicorn hair comes from the same herd. Not the same unicorn, but they are related. I guess we have something in common after all."
"That's kind of neat," Pansy said.
"It is. And to answer the question of why I specialize in repairs, it feels good to match a young witch or wizard with their wand, but it feels much better to reunite someone with their friend."
<<<*>>>
Time passed slowly for Pansy as she waited to hear from Luna. That gave Pansy time to think about her interactions with Luna at her shop.
Pansy could believe that the extraordinary feelings that she had while holding Luna's hand were due in some part to the connection between their wands.
But she didn't think that was all of it by half.
In any case, when the message came that her wand was ready, Pansy hurried to take the floo to Diagon Alley.
Luna was standing behind the counter waiting for Pansy when she arrived.
"So you were able to fix her?" Pansy asked.
"It was quite difficult. The negative feelings your ex-girlfriend imparted were extremely strong, but I believe so. Abigail works properly for me. Of course, it only matters whether or not she works properly for you." Luna opened a box and slid it towards Pansy. "The grafting process is not invisible, I'm afraid. You can see a variation in the coloration of the wood where the repairs are. This is not like repairing a broken chair. In essence, one has to re-grow the wand and its core. I did the best I--"
"She's gorgeous! More beautiful than ever! Lovegood, you're a genius!"
"Thank you, but you might want to save the praise until you've tried her out," Luna said.
Pansy's hand trembled as she reached for her wand, and warmth flooded through her body when she picked it up.
"Go ahead, give it a wave," Luna said.
Pansy did, and green, silver, blue and bronze sparks flooded the room and spilled out into the street.
"Merlin! She's better than ever! I need to sit down..."
Luna levitated a chair to her, and Pansy collapsed onto it.
"What was that? I mean, I guess the green and silver was because I was in Slytherin, but where did the blue and bronze come from?" Pansy asked as she fought for breath.
"I can explain that," Luna told her, "but you might not like it."
"I have Abigail back. More than that, I feel closer to her than ever. I feel like I could conjure a dragon, and I suck at conjuration."
"As I said, it was a difficult repair. There was none of the original wood or hair in stock, and both the tree and the unicorn that donated the original material were destroyed during the war," Luna explained.
"So what did you do?"
"Well, I did have in stock some of the wood and hair that my wand was made from, so I used that. I hope you don't mind," Luna said.
"Why would I mind?"
"Because as long as you carry that wand, you are intimately connected to Loony Lovegood."
Pansy laughed.
"I can stand that if you can, Luna. I've been wondering about something. When I first came in and you were asking all those questions, what made you say that you better understood why our wands are so similar?"
"Oh, that. It's no big deal, just that I'm bi as well."
"Imagine that. So our wands are what, cousins?" Pansy asked.
"More like half-sisters, I guess. Watch this," Luna said, as she pulled her wand from her hair.
"I wish I could carry my wand like that, but my hair is too fine and my ears stick out too much," Pansy said.
"Your hair is like silk. I have to practically beat mine into submission in the mornings."
"Sounds like fun," Pansy said with a grin.
"Sometimes it is, if I'm in the mood. Now then, let's hold our wands close together, end-to-end. Not touching, just close."
Pansy did so, and a tiny ball of light appeared between them.
"What's that?" Pansy asked.
"I think perhaps that is a manifestation of the connection between our wands. It's not like the connection between Harry's wand and Voldemort's. The cores are not identical, just very similar. And in order to graft your wand properly, I had to blend my own power with yours."
"That's fascinating, Luna. I can feel your magic with mine, now that you mention it."
"Once I had purged the negativity from Abigail, the grafting went very well. As you use your wand the blending of powers might become seamless, and not noticeable at all. This phenomenon will likely cease to appear. My magic is only to bind things, she is your wand in all respects."
"What do I owe you, Luna?"
"I'm afraid it's kind of a lot..."
"I don't care and it doesn't matter. Money is not among my myriad problems."
Luna told her and Pansy paid up without complaint.
"When do you close?" Pansy asked.
"In a half-hour, why?"
"How about we go out to dinner? My treat, anywhere you want to go," Pansy asked.
Luna regarded her closely.
"Okay, I guess. The Leaky okay with you?"
"Sure, nothing wrong with good, honest, pub food."
"You won't mind being seen with me?"
"As I said, I can stand it if you can. I'll get us a table."
"Okay, I'll meet you there after I close up," Luna said.
"Good. And thank you, Luna. I'll spread the word that Ollivanders is better than ever, you can count on that."
Pansy went straight to the Leaky Cauldron and claimed a table right in the front window. She wanted Luna to see that she had no reservations about being seen with her. She took her wand and conjured a vase of flowers. It was shockingly easy to do.
"Good evening, Ms. Parkinson," Tom greeted her. "What can I get for you?"
"Just gillywater for now, Tom. I'm waiting for someone. Go ahead and prep a bottle of your best champagne, though."
"Certainly. Lovely flowers, by the way. Nice bit of conjuring."
"Thank you. How's the shepherd's pie?"
"Frankly, it's been better. The vegetables we got in were a bit limp. The fish is first rate, though, and so are the chips and sausages."
"Thanks for the warning, I'll keep it to myself, Tom."
"I appreciate that. Although most of my customers won't notice a thing after a few pints. Your drink will be right over."
Pansy sipped her gillywater and waited. She was just beginning to wonder if Luna was really coming when she appeared.
"Sorry, last minute customer," Luna explained.
"No worries, business is business," Pansy said. Pansy waved at Tom and the champagne appeared, along with two glasses.
"Champagne?" Luna asked.
"Well, I feel like celebrating," Pansy said. "If you don't care for champagne, I'll get you whatever you want."
"I love champagne, it just seems kind of extravagant."
"Luna, fixing my wand so well is something I can never adequately repay. Please, order anything you want. If they don't have it here, we'll go someplace else. Oh, in confidence, Tom advised me to skip the shepherd's pie."
"I like fish and chips better anyway," Luna said. "Since when am I 'Luna' to you?"
"Since you fixed my wand. Hell, like you said, we're connected now. I kind of like that. What do you think of the flowers?" Pansy asked.
"They're fabulous. Where did Tom get them?"
"I conjured them," Pansy said.
"I didn't know that you were so good at conjuration."
"I never was, before. I owe that to you. And if you'd rather, I'll call you 'Ms. Lovegood'.
" 'Luna' is fine, Pansy."
Pansy smiled as she poured the champagne. She slid a glass across to Luna and held her own aloft.
"To new friends?" Pansy asked.
"To new friends," Luna said.
The fish and chips really were good, as was the champagne.
"Thank you for dinner, Pansy. I'd best get going now, though."
"Would you like to get dessert at Fortescue's?"
"I'd love to, but I still have things to do at the shop before I can go home."
"Some other time, then?" Pansy asked.
"I'd like that," Luna answered.
<<<*>>>
The next Monday, a messenger delivered an enormous flower arrangement to Ollivanders. There was a card with it, and Luna read --
I just can't stop conjuring flowers, Luna. Since that's your fault, I thought that you should share the burden.
Pansy
Luna put the flowers in her office for safekeeping before going back to work. Later that morning, the bell over the door announced a customer, and Luna left her workroom to greet them.
"Hello, Luna. Did you get the flowers?" asked Pansy.
"Yes. They are gorgeous, thank you. Is Abigail all right?"
"The more I use her the better she gets. I can do things that I have never been able to do before. How is that possible?"
"It's probably because the wand is better suited to you now, that's all," Luna said.
"Could be, I suppose. Umm... I really enjoyed having dinner with you the other night, Luna."
"I'm glad, I had a good time as well," Luna said.
"Are you free for dinner this coming Sunday?"
"I have no plans, so I suppose so."
"Would you like to have dinner together? I know a great restaurant in London," Pansy said.
"Like a date, you mean?"
"No. Not like a date. A date."
"All right then, I accept."
"Is seven o'clock at your house okay to meet?"
"That will be fine, Pansy. I'm looking forward to it. I should really get back to work now, if you would excuse me."
"Sure. I'll see you Sunday then, bye."
"So long, Pansy."
Pansy stopped by the Leaky Cauldron on her way home, and saw Draco and Astoria sitting at a table in the corner. Draco spotted her and waved her over.
"Hi, Pansy, what brings you to the alley? Wand shopping, perhaps?" Draco asked.
"Heard about that, did you?"
"Zabini told us that Lucretia made quite a mess of your wand. He thinks it's funny," Astoria told her.
"Blaise is a git."
"Too right he is. Will you join us for a drink?"
"Thanks, Draco, that would be nice."
"The house ale is good today, will that suit?" Pansy nodded, and Draco got the server's attention, pointed at his empty glass, and held up three fingers.
"The Leaky is a good pub," Astoria said, "but it's really kind of drab. It could use a bit of colour."
"Allow me," Pansy said, and she produced her wand and conjured a vase of roses.
"These are beautiful, Pansy!" Astoria said. "Roses are my favorites!"
"I remembered that from your wedding."
"What the hell is going on, Pansy? You've never been able to conjure worth a damn. I guess the new wand is a good one. Ollivanders? I heard it was open again."
"Ollivanders, yes. New, no. Look closer, Draco."
"Ollivander repaired it? I would never have believed it possible."
"Ollivander is retired, the new owner repaired it," Pansy told him.
"Well, they must be even better than he was. I've never heard of a wand that badly damaged being properly repaired."
"Oh, it's better than ever. The new owner is a brilliant wandsmith, especially with wands that have a unicorn hair core."
"Wandsmith?" Draco queried.
"Wandsmiths specialize in repairs, darling," Astoria explained. "There are not many of them, as it is a difficult process."
"Well, Pansy, are you going to tell us who this extraordinary wizard is?" Draco asked.
"Witch. It's Luna Lovegood."
Draco's chin hit his chest.
"You're having me on."
"Not a bit of it, Ollivander says he's never seen her match."
"You should have her take a look at yours, darling," Astoria said.
"Something wrong with your wand, Draco?"
"It just seems sort of... reluctant, I guess. It works, usually, but spells are getting more and more difficult to do. Sometimes things just don't come out right."
"Have Luna take a look at it," Pansy said. "I'll keep an eye on your ale."
"Sure you will. But if she can fix the mess Lucretia made of yours, she might be able to do something for mine. That is, if she doesn't just throw me out of her shop or hex me."
"She's a businesswoman, Draco. It's what she does for a living. Just be polite, she doesn't have to like you to do her job."
"Right. I might as well see what she says, then. Enjoy my ale, Pansy. I'll be back soon. I hope."
Luna responded to the bell to find Draco Malfoy standing at the counter.
"Hello, Ms. Lovegood," he said formally, "Pansy tells me that you did a marvelous job repairing her wand. I've seen it in action, and I'm quite impressed. That wand was hacked to pieces from what I hear."
"Did you come here merely to pay me a compliment? Because that doesn't sound like the Draco Malfoy I remember."
"No, I suppose it doesn't. But I am here as a customer. Something is wrong with my wand, and I'd like to get a professional's opinion before I look for a new one."
"That's what I do for a living. Just put it on the counter, please."
Draco did so, and Luna peered closely at it.
"Hawthorn and unicorn tail hair, correct? Made by Mr. Ollivander?"
"Yes to both," Draco said. He started a bit when Luna produced her wand. Luna hid a smile.
She whispered diagnostic spells as she passed her wand along Draco's, and after a few moments she tucked her wand back behind her ear.
"There is a minute fracture in the wood that should be simple to repair, but the core is intact. Tell me, does it seem to you that your wand just doesn't want to work for you?"
"Yes. How on earth could you tell that?" Draco asked in wonder.
"It's my job to be able to tell things like that. The real problem is that your wand's feelings are hurt. I can tell that you maintain it well, but can you recall anything that might have happened to cause this?"
"Wands have feelings?" Draco asked.
"Of course they do. Do you know when this started?"
"It hasn't really felt right since Harry gave it back to me, I guess."
"Were you happy to get it back?"
"Of course I was," Draco said.
"Well, your wand doesn't seem to think so."
"What needs to be done, then? I like this wand. I don't want to get another one, but I need it to work properly."
"I'll repair the fracture. That's a reasonably simple procedure, and I can do it now. But you need to renew your bond with it," she told him.
"How do I do that?"
"Keep it near you at all times, even when you're sleeping. Polish it often. But the most important thing to do is simply to play with it. Do silly spells, fun transfigurations and conjurations. Cheering charms and such. Don't just use it for work. Unicorn wands are very loyal, but yours just isn't sure that you really want it."
"Amazing. Would you go ahead and fix it, then? And I'll need some wand care supplies, whatever you recommend."
"Of course, it should only take a moment. I'll be right back."
Luna carried the wand to her workshop, and a short time later Draco saw a glow from behind the curtain. Luna returned and handed him the wand.
"It feels better already. Thank you, Ms. Lovegood."
"You're welcome. Here is our best wand care kit. This one is made especially for hawthorn and it will actually strengthen and refresh the wood. The total charge is twenty-seven galleons."
"Here's fifty, keep the change," Draco said. "I know several people whose wands are a little wonky. Do you work with cores other than unicorn? If so, I'll send them 'round."
"Yes. I work with unicorn, phoenix feather, and dragon heartstring like Mr. Ollivander did. I have also had some success with veela hair, thestral tail hair, and kneazle whisker. I can work with nearly any wood, certainly any European variety."
"I'll spread the word. Best of luck with your business, it's wonderful to have Ollivanders back. Good day, Ms. Lovegood."
"Well?" Pansy said when Draco resumed his seat.
"You were right, Luna Lovegood is brilliant. Did you know that wands have feelings?"
"Of course they do, you great prat," Astoria said. "Honestly, Pansy, do you see what I have to put up with?"
"You're tougher than you look, Astoria."
"Thanks, ladies. Pansy, we're having a small dinner party this Sunday," Draco said, "would you care to join us?"
"I appreciate the invitation, but I have a date with Luna," Pansy said.
"An hour ago I would have said that you were crazy, but now I just wish you luck."
"Thanks, Draco."
Pansy found herself in Ollivanders twice more during the week to get supplies for Abigail's care, and advice on the same.
Really, that was why.
<<<*>>>
Pansy knocked on Luna's door precisely at seven on Sunday evening. She barely had time to tuck her handkerchief away after drying her palms before Luna answered the door. Pansy wasn't used to being nervous about a date.
"You're beautiful!" Pansy blurted when she saw Luna.
"Thank you, Pansy. Come on in, I just need to feed Melody and then we can go."
"No rush, who's Melody?"
"My kneazle friend. Melody, say hello to Pansy."
"Prrrttt," said Melody.
"Good evening to you, too, Melody. I am pleased to make your acquaintance," Pansy replied. Luna smiled at the courtesy, and Melody rubbed against Pansy's leg.
"She seems to like you, Pansy."
"That's a good thing, right?"
"Very. Come on, sweetheart, let's get your dinner," Luna said. She returned shortly.
"All set. Floo or Apparition?" Luna asked.
"Apparition, it's a muggle restaurant. I'll land us nearby, if you'll trust me not to splinch you."
"I'll take my chances," Luna said. "And Pansy, you look kind of beautiful yourself. That's a lovely suit."
They linked arms, and Pansy Disapparated them. Melody recognized the sound, finished her dinner, and then jumped onto Luna's bed and curled up on her pillow.
"Are you okay?" Pansy asked Luna when they arrived in the shielded area in a small park.
"Yes, that was nicely done, Pansy. Very smooth."
"Thanks, the restaurant is just up the street."
They walked the short distance arm-in-arm. It felt comfortable to them.
The dinner was excellent, and Luna suggested a stroll in the park before they went home since the evening was fine and fair. Pansy readily agreed.
"Thank you for the lovely dinner, Pansy."
"My pleasure, I'm glad you enjoyed it."
"I must also thank you for the increase in business. Draco has sent several people in for repairs already."
"Good. Expect more customers from the Foundation as well. A lot of wands were damaged or lost during the war."
The Parkinson Foundation had been established after the war to comply with the reparations the Parkinsons had to pay for their role in aiding Voldemort. Mr. Parkinson was dead, and somewhat to her surprise, Pansy got a lot of satisfaction from running things.
They walked slowly for a time in comfortable silence.
"The night really is beautiful, and I've had a marvelous time with you, but I do need to get home now. I'm sorry," Luna said.
"Nothing to be sorry about, and I've had a wonderful time with you, too. Shall we go?"
Pansy offered her arm, and Luna took it, smiling.
They landed neatly by Luna's front door.
"Would you like a cup of tea, Pansy? I have a very nice herbal blend."
"Yes, thank you."
Luna let them into the house.
"Have a seat, I'll be back with the tea," Luna said.
Pansy took a seat on the couch, and in a moment Melody hopped into her lap and settled down, purring loudly.
Luna came into the room carrying a tea tray.
"Oh, is she bothering you? I can move her if you want."
"She's no bother at all. Actually, a lap kneazle is a very nice thing," Pansy said.
"She never does that. Not with anyone but me," Luna said.
"Maybe it's something to do with how our wands are bound together?"
"Could be, I suppose. Tea's ready, how do you take yours?"
"On its own, please, Luna."
Pansy accepted her cup and took a sip.
"Delicious! Where do you get this?"
"It's my own blend, I'll give you some to take home with you."
Pansy enjoyed her tea and idly stroked Melody. The kneazle's purring was the loudest sound in the room. Luna covered a yawn.
"Time for me to go," Pansy said, "thank you for a wonderful evening, Luna. And for the tea."
"You're welcome. I had a splendid time with you as well."
Pansy gently evicted Melody, who immediately curled up on the spot Pansy had vacated. Luna escorted her to the door and handed her a package of the tea.
"Well, goodnight, Luna," Pansy said as she opened the door. She had just stepped outside when Luna said--
"Pansy, wait a moment."
Pansy stopped and turned back to Luna, who gave her a brief but firm kiss on the lips.
"Pleasant dreams, Pansy," she said as she softly closed the door.
<<<*>>>
Luna was not surprised by the delivery of flowers on Monday, but it did put a smile on her face.
So did Pansy's visits, which happened a few times that week. As Pansy had regular Foundation business at Gringotts, this was perhaps not all that surprising. And they really had enjoyed their date.
She was, however, surprised at the growing feelings that she had for Pansy. Surprised, and a little frightened. There was their history to consider, and it was impossible to really tell what of the feelings she had came from the blending of their magic and what was just them. And she needed to know.
Still, when Pansy showed up at lunchtime Friday with a bag from Fortescue's, she was glad to see her.
"How is Abigail getting on?" she asked.
"Absolutely splendidly. I just felt like bringing you some ice cream. I didn't know what you prefer, so I got several different flavors."
"Thank you. Come on, we can eat at my desk."
Luna led the way, and Pansy set out the cartons of ice cream.
"Take your pick, Luna. I never met an ice cream I didn't like, so it doesn't matter to me."
"Just stopping by like usual, Pansy?"
"No, actually I wanted to see if you'd like to go out this weekend."
"Oh. Sorry, but no. I have plans," Luna said.
"I see." Pansy could not completely hide her disappointment.
"I'm expecting a guest for the weekend."
"I'd better get going. Enjoy the ice cream, and have a good time with your guest."
"Well, if you aren't going to have some ice cream, at least tell me if you're coming to my house this evening, or Saturday morning."
"Huh?"
"I'm inviting you to spend the weekend at my house. It's my turn to feed you, and Melody seems to miss you."
"Oh."
"Clearly, Pansy, hunger has rendered you monosyllabic. Have some ice cream."
Pansy sat and picked a carton at random.
"You were teasing me," Pansy said at length.
"Yes."
"Well done. I'll see you tonight at seven. Can I bring anything?"
"I don't have much of a wine cellar, so if you want that you might bring something you like. Other than that, just bring yourself and your personal items."
"Okay."
The day passed quickly, and Pansy appeared at Luna's precisely at seven.
"Come on in," Luna greeted her. "Supper will be ready soon."
"I brought some wine, where shall I put it?"
"Just follow me to the kitchen and plop it on the table."
"Prrrttt!" Melody said, emphatically.
"Hi, sweetheart," Pansy said. "I'm happy to see you too."
Pansy managed to avoid tripping over Melody on the way to the kitchen, but it was a near thing.
"I made spaghetti," Luna said, "I hope that's all right."
"It's great, thanks. Do I smell bread baking? '
"You might, I'm baking some," Luna said with a smile.
"Can I help with anything?"
"Check on the bread, it should be done."
"How would I tell?" Pansy asked. "I've never baked anything."
"Then stir the sauce while I check on it. It's just like making potions, but you don't have to count the stirs and the direction doesn't matter."
"Got it."
Luna took the bread from the oven, and in a very short time they were seated at the kitchen table with loaded plates and full glasses.
"This is delicious, Luna," Pansy declared after her first bite.
"I'm glad you like it. Is it okay to talk while we eat, or would you rather finish supper first?"
"I'm fine with it. What do you want to talk about?"
"Us," Luna said.
"What about us?" Pansy asked, and she put her fork down.
"Where are we headed with our relationship? Where are we now? What do we really feel for each other? A few weeks ago we weren't even friends. We are now, but I think I feel more than that. Do you? Do you even know? The wand magic undoubtedly is affecting us, but is that all? Things have been moving very quickly for us. You've been giving me flowers and coming by the shop a lot."
"So you think we should slow things down, then?" Pansy asked. She felt a little hollow at the thought, but Luna was right. Things had been moving very quickly.
"On the contrary, I want to speed things up. That's why I invited you here. We have the whole weekend to ourselves. No work, no other people to consider, just the two of us. We can concentrate on each other, see how we get along together when it's just us. What do you think?"
"I think it's a wonderful idea! Will Melody mind?"
"She's all in favor of it."
"Thanks, Melody," Pansy said.
"Mmmrrr."
"Okay, then, let's finish eating and then we'll relax a while and discuss sleeping arrangements," Luna said.
They chatted aimlessly during their meal, took care of the dishes, and then retired to the couch. Melody managed to get Luna to move closer to Pansy by burrowing between Luna and the arm of the couch.
"Thanks for having me here, Luna. This is nice."
"You're welcome, and thanks for coming. May I touch your hair?"
"Sure."
Luna stroked Pansy's hair gently, and let it slip through her fingers.
"Just like silk. It feels amazing, like a cool shower, almost."
"I like it when you do that. May I touch yours?"
"Of course, that's what this weekend is for, to really explore things about each other."
Pansy ran her hand over Luna's hair and then took a handful of it and squeezed.
"It's so thick! I've never felt anything like it. It's actually heavy."
"I'll bet yours is easier to brush, though," Luna said.
"Well, let's find out. I've got a hairbrush in my bag."
Pansy got her brush and turned to Luna.
"Who goes first?"
"I'll do you first," Luna said. "Here, sit on the floor in front of me."
Pansy did, and soon relaxed and leaned against Luna's leg while Luna brushed her hair.
"The brush just glides through it. Incredible. It's like brushing moonlight. Or what I imagine brushing moonlight would be like."
"I might fall asleep, Luna."
"Go ahead, I'm enjoying myself."
"No, it's my turn now," Pansy said.
They switched positions, and Pansy took the brush to Luna's hair.
Melody took care of her own grooming, so as to participate.
"I love the way your hair feels, Luna. It's so rich. It does take a bit of effort to brush it, though. Am I hurting you? Am I pulling too hard?"
"No, I'm used to it. I kind of like it, frankly. I like it better when you do it, though."
Luna reached up and felt her hair.
"That's really nice, Pansy. It might not be such a mess in the morning."
Melody yawned. So did Pansy and Luna.
"I think Melody is right," Pansy said. "I'm pretty sleepy."
"So am I," Luna agreed, "let me show you where you'll sleep, and where the bathroom and things are."
Pansy followed Luna down a short hallway to a room with a double bed.
"The loo is right through there," Luna said. "I cleared out the top two drawers in the dresser for you. Towels and things are in the little closet in the bathroom."
"Thank you. This is a lovely room, where's your bedroom?"
"This is my bedroom, Pansy."
"Oh. I can't kick you out of your own bed, Luna."
"I certainly hope that you don't. I want us to sleep together."
"What?"
"Don't panic, I really mean sleep. I want to see how we get along close together, how comfortable we are, how trusting of each other. Those things are much more important than sex."
"I didn't bring any nightclothes, Luna. I usually sleep nude."
"That might be a little much for our first night together. I have gowns and pajamas you can wear. I'll bet you're pretty without clothes, though."
"I'm nothing special in that regard, trust me. I'll take the pajamas so you won't be disappointed."
Luna took a pair from a drawer and gave them to Pansy.
"I'll give you some privacy. Call out when you're done and I'll take my turn then, Pansy."
"Okay, and thanks."
"I'll go see to Melody," Luna said, and she closed the door behind her.
Pansy sat on the bed and took several deep breaths. When Luna decided to speed things up, she didn't take half-measures. Still, as nervous as she was, Pansy was looking forward to the night.
She debated whether or not to shower, but decided it was the best course of action since she was going to be sleeping with Luna.
I'm going to sleep with Luna...
She showered quickly, dried off, put on the pajamas and climbed into bed.
"All set in here," she called out, and in a moment Luna came into the room.
"Are you comfortable? Is the bed all right?" Luna asked.
"The bed is very comfortable, and the pajamas are nice and soft, thank you."
Luna smiled and nodded, got a gown and went into the bathroom. Pansy really was sleepy, but she stayed awake until Luna emerged from the bathroom. The light behind her plainly showed the outline of her body through the thin gown. Luna was slender, but Pansy already knew that. Still, she was mesmerized.
Luna shut off the bathroom light, leaving only the small reading lamp for illumination.
"Melody will likely join us during the night. Do you want me to shut the door?"
"No, it's her house. I don't want to disrupt her routine any more than I already have. She won't be a bother."
"Okay."
Luna walked to Pansy's side of the bed.
"Do you think a goodnight kiss would be okay?"
"Let's find out."
Luna slipped her fingers into Pansy's hair, and their lips met. It was a gentle kiss, and it lingered, and it felt just right.
"I'd say that was much better than okay, Luna," Pansy whispered.
"So would I. Goodnight, Pansy. Sleep well."
Perhaps surprisingly, they both slept well. They didn't even notice when Melody joined them. Melody saw them snuggled together like spoons, and approved. She could feel how contented Luna was, and she curled up by their feet and closed her eyes, purring.
<<<*>>>
Pansy woke before either Luna or Melody. Luna was snug against her back, one of her arms draped across Pansy's waist. Pansy was warm, and happy, and had no wish at all to be anywhere other than where she was. It was a unique combination of feelings for her, so she lay very still and enjoyed it.
In a little while Luna's arm tightened around her, and a soft kiss landed on her neck.
"Good morning Pansy, did you sleep well?" Luna whispered.
"Like a very happy stone," Pansy said. "And you?"
"The same. I guess that answers the question of how comfortable we are together rather conclusively."
"I would say so, yes," Pansy said.
"Prrrttt! Mmmmrrrow."
"Her highness is hungry," Luna said.
"Then we must attend her. May I fix breakfast for us? I can't bake, but I make a decent omelet."
"Of course. I'll see to Melody."
Luna gave Pansy another squeeze, and then rose and left the room, following the hungry kneazle.
Pansy went into the bathroom and took care of her immediate needs. She had opened the door to go and fix breakfast when a thought struck her, and she turned and faced herself in the mirror.
"I look the same as ever," she said, "that doesn't seem right." She took a closer look, and found some differences. Her face was relaxed, her eyes wide, her brow was not furrowed, her lips were not pursed. She was so fascinated by these small changes that she did not hear Luna come up behind her.
"That face is well worth a look," Luna said, "shall I go ahead and fix breakfast?"
"What have you done to me, Luna?" Pansy whispered.
"Nothing but be close to you without expectations."
Pansy kissed Luna on the cheek.
"Thank you."
Pansy went to start breakfast, and Luna tended to her own morning routine before joining Pansy in the kitchen.
"Are you going to stay in those pajamas all day?" Luna asked.
"Maybe. Do you mind?"
"Not a bit, although I do feel a bit over-dressed," Luna said.
"That's easy enough to take care of if you want to. I'm not fussed. I've found the eggs, salt and pepper, and butter that I need. Where do you keep your herbs?"
"Follow me," Luna said, and she led Pansy out the back door. "There you go," she said, pointing to a large herb garden.
"Amazing. That's a beautiful garden, Luna."
"Thank you, it's special to me. I planted it in memory of those lost in the war. The herbs aren't labeled, I'm afraid."
"That's okay. I know what they look like." Pansy carefully gathered the herbs she wanted and returned to the kitchen.
"I'll make tea," Luna said, and Pansy set to work.
Soon enough, the smell of the omelets filled the air. Even Melody seemed interested.
"They're ready," Pansy said. "You know, Snape was actually a pretty good teacher. Lots of the potion-making techniques he taught us translate to cooking."
"Yes, they do. The omelets smell wonderful, Pansy. The tea is ready."
"Pprrrtt?"
"You may have a tiny piece, Melody. Some of the herbs are not easy for kneazles to digest," Luna said.
"I made her a small one with just egg and a bit of cheese," Pansy told Luna.
"That was very kind of you, thank you."
"My pleasure. Here we are..."
Breakfast was a success, and Melody gave Pansy a head-butt of thanks before finding a good patch of sunlight to wash up and sleep in.
Luna and Pansy did the dishes and then sat on a bench in the garden.
"It's beautiful here, Luna."
"I'm glad that you like it. It's better with you, though."
Pansy took Luna's hand.
"What now?" Pansy asked.
"Let's just enjoy the moment," Luna answered, letting her head rest on Pansy's shoulder. "Sometimes not caring what's next is nice."
Sitting in the warmth of the morning sun, feeling the softness of Luna's hair touching her cheek, breathing in the light fragrance of her skin, Pansy found herself in complete agreement.
They said little during the morning, but learned much. Simply being together filled the spaces that needed filling. They read, and played with Melody, or just watched in fascination as she went about the business of being a kneazle.
Lunch was a Greek salad with things from the garden, cheese that Luna had made with goat's milk that she had from Aberforth, and the bread left from last nights' dinner.
"Do you feel up to a walk?" Luna asked.
"I'd love to. Should I change first?"
"Never change, Pansy. Please. But you might want to put on some shoes," Luna said with a smile.
"Goose," Pansy responded. "I'll be right back."
Pansy returned momentarily in jeans and a t-shirt, wearing a pair of trainers.
"I'm ready, lead on!" she said.
They walked through the garden and exited through a gate. They could hear rushing water and soon came to a swiftly flowing stream.
"Beautiful," Pansy said.
"Yes, it is. But just you wait. Follow me."
Pansy did so willingly, enjoying the beauty of the river, and the sunlight on Luna's hair, and the sight of Luna walking in front of her. There was nothing else at all on her mind.
Soon enough, the sound of moving water got louder, until a turn in the path revealed a wide pool that was being fed by a small waterfall.
"This is one of my favorite places," Luna said.
"Mine too, now," Pansy said. "I've never seen anything like it. The water is so clear!"
"I love to relax in this pool. It's a little cold, but you get used to it pretty quickly."
"Shall we?" Pansy asked.
By way of reply, Luna undressed and waded into the pool.
Pansy certainly didn't avert her eyes, but without her clothes Luna was simply Luna without her clothes. She was still slender, her breasts were still small, and she really was pretty, but Pansy didn't feel anything different looking at Luna naked than clothed, or silhouetted by a bathroom light. She was always enthralled by the sight of her.
And so Pansy just undressed and joined Luna in the cool, clear water.
Luna smiled at her and took her hand, and they waded out until the water covered their shoulders.
Luna was more excited that Pansy had not hesitated to join her than she was at seeing her naked. Pansy's waist was kind of thick, and her breasts were nice and pert, but all that Luna saw was Pansy, the same as ever. Luna thought she was beautiful.
They faced each other and ducked under the water. They could see each other clearly, their hair floating about them. They smiled, and kissed in the embrace of the water and their own arms. The kiss deepened, and their tongues touched, and only the need to breathe ended it. They stood and embraced, and that was all that either of them wanted or needed.
Being together as themselves, in this beautiful place, was enough.
Supper was ice cream, just because.
The postprandial cleanup didn't take long, and they sat on the bench in the garden with Melody, listening to the bugs and the frogs and the birds and looking at the stars until they got too sleepy to appreciate the concert.
Having already crossed the nudity line, Pansy decided to sleep as she usually did and just showered and got into bed. Luna joined her wearing a gown as she usually did, and they lay there in silence for a while, just looking into each other's eyes.
"I love you, Luna."
"Do you want to make love, Pansy?"
"I think that's all we've been doing since I got here," Pansy answered. "If you mean do I want to have sex, then no, I don't, and I don't quite understand that. I just don't need that to be happy or satisfied. I don't need sex. I need to be with you. This has been the best time of my life, and sex wouldn't make it any better. It wouldn't make me feel any closer to you."
"I feel the same way, Pansy. It's like... sex carries expectations. It's stressful, in a way."
"Yes! I love seeing you without clothes, you're beautiful, everything I could ask for. But I get the same feelings looking at you when you're dressed. Here we are in bed. I'm naked and all you have on is that thin gown. I want to touch you, hold you, kiss you, but I'm not what I'd call aroused. I'm just...full of love for you."
Luna kissed her and held her close.
"I know what you mean. Sex will happen when we're both ready for it, and I know it will be beautiful. But enough thinking," Luna whispered. "Let's just hold each other and feel."
When Melody joined them, Pansy and Luna were in such a close embrace that they were sharing Pansy's pillow. She squinted in satisfaction and took possession of Luna's.
<<<*>>>
They woke simultaneously Sunday morning, and rose together.
"You go first today," Pansy said, "I'll attend to her grace."
"Okay."
Her morning routine complete, Luna dressed and found Pansy sitting in the garden.
"Your turn in the loo, Pansy."
"What? Oh, right. Sorry, my mind was wandering."
"Let it wander where it will go. It might find something interesting," Luna said.
Pansy touched Luna on the way by, just because she was there.
Luna was busy making scones when Pansy came into the kitchen.
"I love scones," Pansy said.
"Good. These are nearly ready for the oven. There are some nice strawberries too, would you like anything else?"
"Butter for the scones and cream for the strawberries would be nice, shall I make tea?
"Please."
Breakfast was a leisurely affair. There was nothing they had to do, and it was pleasant in the kitchen with a light breeze bringing in the scents from the garden. Neither of them felt a need to talk just to fill the silence, but Pansy did have something on her mind.
They went outside and sat together on the garden bench.
"Let's try that thing with our wands," Pansy said.
"Okay, but try not to be disappointed if it doesn't happen again."
They held their wands close together, and the little ball of light appeared. It seemed to be brighter.
"That's interesting," Luna said.
"I have a thought about this, Luna."
"Yes?"
"Suppose our cores weren't from relatives, but from mates?"
"It's possible. That might better explain why the graft was so successful," Luna said.
"Let's do it again, but I'll hold yours and you hold mine."
They swapped wands and held them end to end again, and this time the ball of light was noticeably brighter.
"I did not expect that," Luna said.
"Let's try conjuring something and see how that goes."
Luna offered Pansy's wand back to her.
"Not yet, let's use each other's wands for this. I'll stick with my flowers since we both know how they turn out."
Pansy cast the spell she had perfected for the flowers she sent to Luna.
"Well," Pansy said, "they do seem to be flowers, but..."
"Not up to your usual standard. Interesting. I'll try something with your wand."
Something appeared, but...
"Is that a snake?" Pansy asked.
"It's supposed to be a measuring tape. I use those a lot in my work, but I tend to mislay them. I can do that spell in my sleep. Let's swap back and try again."
This time things worked as expected. Luna vanished her efforts, and Pansy was about to do the same with hers.
"Please don't," Luna said quickly. "I want to keep them both. They're from you."
Pansy kissed Luna on the cheek.
"So, the connection between our wands seems stronger when I'm holding yours and you're holding mine, but our magic works better when we use our own wands, right?" Pansy asked.
"Yes. I would expect spells to go better with our own wands, but I'm not sure why it's the other way 'round with the connection."
"Let's assume that the unicorns that gave the hairs for our cores really were mates, for now. We might even be able to verify that later on."
"That makes sense, and it really does help explain why the graft was so successful. The hairs did seem eager to bond, once the bad energy was gone," Luna said.
"Tell me; is it possible that in addition to the wood from your tree and the hair from the mates, that when you did the grafting some sort of essence from our wands themselves blended together?"
"It is, yes. There was certainly an exchange of power, and it was much more intense than usual. I thought that was because the damage was so extensive. I'd never grafted such a badly damaged wand before. Now that I think of it, Penelope wasn't tired at all afterwards. She seemed -- thrilled."
"So did Abigail. I figured she was just glad to see me," Pansy said, grinning.
"We've had those wands since we were children. I know that a witch or wizard's power influences a wand with time and use, do you suppose the opposite is true as well?" Luna asked.
"Could be, I guess."
Luna's face fell.
"What's wrong?" Pansy asked.
"Then maybe we only think we're in love because our unicorns were. What if what we feel isn't real? I can't bear being just another one of your mistakes, Pansy!"
Tears appeared in Luna's eyes, and Pansy wrapped her arms around Luna and held her tightly.
"You are not a mistake! I've never felt anything this real in my life, and I just don't think that's what's going on here, Luna."
"What else could it be?"
"Using magic to create love doesn't work. Love potions, no matter how powerful, only create obsession. There is no joy, no contentment, only compulsion. It's really dark magic, Luna. Casting Imperio on someone might compel them to stay with you, but it can't make them love you. I've experienced them both and it's horrific."
Pansy stopped talking and kissed the tears from Luna's eyes. She was rewarded with a fragile smile.
"I've been in love before, or what I believed was love, and it wasn't what we have. Before, there was always a desire for more of something. I could spend the rest of my life just sitting beside you and be perfectly content."
"So have I, and I feel the same way," Luna said "But that could still be our wands, couldn't it?"
"I don't think so. Well, I believe they are involved in a way. But not in a causative manner."
"Go on," Luna said, interested.
"The wand chooses the witch, right?
"Of course."
"So what I think happened, is that our wands chose us because they sensed in us something close to what our unicorns sensed in each other," Pansy said.
"Then why weren't we at least friends when we were in school?"
"Because we weren't finished becoming ourselves, the people we really are. We weren't ready," Pansy said.
"So our wands waited until we were all grown up to bring us together? That's a bit of a stretch, Pansy."
"I agree. No, our wands didn't bring us together. I don't even think they brought themselves together, the cores just recognized each other when they were grafted. My wand was damaged. I heard that Ollivanders was open again, so of course I took it there. Where else? And I found you."
"Well, that was hardly love at first sight," Luna said.
"No, but I came back, didn't I?"
"Only because you had no option."
"I had a world of options, but I picked you. I thought it was because only you might have a chance of fixing my wand, but now I think it was more than that. I wanted to come to you because part of me was responding to you. I needed to come to you. I really didn't believe Abigail could be saved, frankly," Pansy admitted.
"So where does that leave us, Pansy?"
"There is really no explaining love, is there?"
"No," agreed Luna.
"We're in love, and it is a new experience of love for both of us. It's comfortable, relaxing, secure. Different, in a word."
Luna nodded.
"I believe that what we have together is something like--"
" unicorn love," Luna whispered.
"Yes," Pansy said, and Luna kissed her thoroughly.
"Unicorns mate for life you know, Pansy."
"Good."
<3
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