Seiichi hadn’t been able to sleep for nearly a week. He’d sent one of the school eagles home to his parents, asking for permission to spend some of the holiday with the Matsukinseis. Seiichi purposely hadn’t mentioned that the boys were Muggle-born because he wasn’t sure how his family would take it. Interestingly, it wasn’t his father’s reaction he was worried about, but his mother’s.

Seiichi had always been closer with his mother while his brother had bonded with their father, and since his mother was traditional and believed strongly in blood purity, Seiichi had naturally done so as well. But after that go game with Matsukinsei-kun, Seiichi wasn’t sure.

So he was lying awake at nearly midnight when he heard a tap on the window. He threw himself out of bed and raced to the window—completely oblivious to the junior high boys who were probably sleeping in the room below his. Sure enough, it was the eagle. Seiichi opened the window and let the bird inside. It ruffled its feathers and held out a foot so Seiichi could take the scroll.

The boy nervously broke the seal and unrolled the parchment.

Seiichi-kun,

I cannot stop you from visiting these Mudbloods (yes, I researched their family), as your father has once again overruled me and said that if you wish to go you may. But I strongly advise against it.

Think, son, about how this could ruin your prospects. You are nearing adulthood, and it is not a good idea to be seen with those whose nature is questionable.

I hope your exams go well.

Oka-san

Seiichi crumpled up the parchment, feeling annoyed. It was none of his mother’s business with whom he chose to associate, and Seiichi liked Matsukinsei-kun. At least, however, she hadn’t said he couldn’t go. Feeling grateful to his father (and just a little bit guilty about their falling out at the beginning of the school year), Seiichi tossed the parchment into the rubbish bin and crawled back into bed, where he slept well for the first time in a week.

[end]