The guidance of wise men [Tag; Rowen]

Blue eyes stared up as the echoed sound of wings flapping bounced gently off the walls. His gaze followed the birds as they glided in the air closer to the ceiling of the room that had been made their own. Wolfie found solace in the space, the soft sound of flight relaxing his ever racing mind. So many things wandered about his head, so many questions that needed answers and answers for which he might never be asked the question. It was so close to his birthday, one day in fact, and he found himself full of worries. It would be the second birthday that would fall since the loss of his sister. He felt the weight of such knowledge though it didn't fill him with an unshakable sadness as thoughts of her often did. He was growing perhaps and that allowed him to find joy in things to be celebrated. His sorrows were still sunk within the shadows of his soul but that sadness didn't swallow up the small bit of solace he had left. Rowen was one of many solaces he had in the world and seeing her as had become their custom was something he looked forward to.

Young master, it is almost time.

Taylor's voice broke through his thoughts and Wolfie let his gaze drift to the older man, the former mute, to whose voice the former Slytherin had yet to get used to hearing. A lean frame rose as he adjusted the vest he wore redoing the buttons, "And you sent word days ago that I would be arriving?" he watched the other man nod and Wolfgang found that he enjoyed him better this way, quiet and compliant. "I'm to leave tomorrow with Genevieve don't mistake this for a time to be spent foolishly. You've duties and while I'm away you will tend to Rowen. Whatever she may need." he eyed the other man, "should she tell me you were less than satisfactory…" he let that thought rest with the other man who knew exactly what the platinum-haired boy was capable of. He held out an envelope with an elegantly written G its center, "Only when she wakes." and as the paper, the floor beneath his feet vanished. The familiar push and pull of apparation sent him on his travels before he felt the solid earth beneath his feet. The cool February air touched his face and his blue eyes rose to a sky that nearly matched the color of his eyes.

He walked slowly toward his destination taking in the changes of Hogsmeade. He could feel the slight chill that ran along his spine as it always did, the ghost of a memory threatening to come to the surface. It was strange how years had passed and still, he could feel what used to be as if it were only there just seconds ago. He allowed someone else to open the door for which he was headed and the dapperly dressed man slipped by the couple attempting to enter. "You're very much excused," he said as someone scoffed before he chuckled as he made his way to a table. A long-fingered hand rose to dismiss the waitress before she could approach him. He never ordered before his company had arrived and as a gentleman, he would never dream of doing so before a lady. Once more he undid the buttons to his vest before he sat down moments later he looked up as Taylor approached with the covered birdcage. "Thank you," he muttered as if he didn't wish to show his gratitude. "Now go make yourself useful." that hand rose to dismiss the other man as Wolfie sat back.

He had never gone so far away on his birthday but he knew after the last year he shared with the love of his life, a break was desperately needed. They needed that quality time to simply forget the world and he planned to make the trip one she might never forget. He hoped to share bits of the world she knew nothing of and hoped that by the end of their time together they were far closer than they were now. He gave a nod as water was brought to the table with two glasses, "Menus, I'm sure she will be famished." he wondered if the food was still as good as he remembered at the school or if somehow it had lost that anticipatory goodness he recalled. Reaching out he took the glass, the band of the ring he wore giving a soft think as Wolfie poured himself a glass of water to drink. Up until that point he hadn't truly looked around him. There were kids about and that could account for the buzzed conversations he heard in one hushed tone after the other. A few scattering of adults but somehow they didn't seem to fit in this space. Had it always been that way during a Hogsmeade weekend, adults peppered into the bunch no doubt as spies. Sadly, the men didn't take much pride in their appearance as he did. His head shook before his gaze drifted to the door.

The smile that crossed his face was wide and touched his eyes, warming the oceans with his affections. He stood adjusting his vest so that he might move in for a hug, "No, before you ask I just got here. Maybe a few moments early but only to escape Taylor and that ever-watchful gaze." he joked, moving to pull out her chair for her "I did not order anything, but, shall we glance at the menu?" He retook his seat and once more he grinned, "I've missed you." He took a small box from his vest, its bow wrapped neatly atop its center. "After we have ordered." he had done as he often did and spent money lavishly for those who had his true affection. A loft her very own waited for her in London should she choose to spend her summer away from home. He had been around her age when he had taken on self-responsibility and he knew of all people his cousin was far more capable than other youth to maintain such responsibilities.

"So, tell me, what is new since we last had the chance to catch up?"

@Rowen Reinhardt

February was easily one of Rowen's favorite holidays, though not for the same nonsense reasons as many of her witchy peers. She did not share the same obsession over Valentine's Day that seemed to plague the rest of the teenage population of Hogwarts. Rowen found the entire holiday to be a sham. As if one day could be enough for her future husband to prove his devotion to her, please. She expected that sort of treatment daily, as Genevieve had taught her. Hogsmeade and the castle decorated in pastels and frills for the last three weeks, and Rowen grew tired of it. If she wanted to live in a pumpkin, Rowen would have been a princess, but she considered herself a Queen. Or, at the very least, a Queen-in-the-making.

No, she did not care for Valentine's but instead adored February for two simple reasons: the brilliant cold weather and her cousin Wolfgang's birthday. For the past few years, the two Reinhardts had met at the end of February to celebrate, even when the Gregorian calendar did not grace them with the date. Being born on a leap, it was not every year that February 29th came around, and Rowen had been careful to select a special gift for the occasion. A letter had been sent ahead, informing her of the date, and the young witch cleared her weekend schedule in accordance. She adored her cousin, and this was one of her favorite traditions. It wasn't just because Wolfgang typically gifted her with something (it was partly that, naturally), but also because she enjoyed spending time with him. They shared a list of common interests and beliefs, he was quite entertaining, and Rowen trusted Wolfgang more than anyone else in their family. Not to mention he would run everything one day, and Rowen was smart enough to know where to stand.

Rowen had spent more time fretting over her outfit than the gift for Wolfgang, but that was par for the course. In the end, she had decided on a luxurious cloak adorned with raven feathers and the best warming charms sickles could buy. Her dress was perfectly pressed, dark stockings meeting her laced shoes, and a few costly silver accessories completed the look. Rowen curled her hair to perfection, grabbed her wand, and headed down the Ravenclaw tower and out of the castle. Gracing Hogsmeade with her presence, the little witch walked to the end of High Street and right into Dervish and Banges. Picking up the order she had placed ahead of time, Rowen inspected the gift wrapping and found it adecuate. After a few well-placed sighs, a short-lived debate, and a threat to speak to the manager, Rowen exited the shop with a pristinely wrapped present, a gift certificate for her next visit, and a smug look on her face.

Next, she headed to the pub at the exact time she had planned. Like every other part of her life, the timing was a strict calculation for Rowen. She would not show up early and wait on anyone, nor would she be disrespectful to Wolfgang. Rowen was punctual, assuming her cousin would be there a few minutes early, but just enough that her showing up on time would be fashionable. It was easy arithmetic, and her smile grew as she saw his pale blond hair through the window. It was lovely on him, but Merlin had she dodged a bullet with her genes. Running her fingers over her deep brown curls one last time, the little witch entered the pub and greeted her cousin warmly. Rowen's lips moved, but Wolfgang beat her to the question, and she chuckled. "I see," She answered, one eyebrow-raising mischievously as she imagined Wolfgang needing to escape anything.

Rowen unclasped her cloak and hung it delicately on the rack near their table as if she would ever drape it lazily over the back of her seat. She set down the small parcel she had brought and accepted the chair he offered with grace. "That would be lovely," Rowen agreed and ignored the thunderous rumble in her stomach. She had skipped breakfast to make sure to finish her homework ahead of schedule, but that was not unusual. Wolfgang spoke as he produced a gift, and Rowen's eyes twinkled. "You know they will take forever to bring the order," She tempted, sliding her gift to meet the other box in the center of the table. "Are you sure you want to wait?"

While Rowen knew the question would arise, she could hardly hold back the dramatic sigh when Wolfgang asked what was new. "Quite a lot, actually," She began, her curls bouncing as she dove enthusiastically into an account of her most recent exploits. "I have top marks in Arithmancy, Potions, and Herbology. I was given accommodation in the form of house points for an essay in Ancient Runes. With careful guidance, my snail mentee has decided to take up the cause of animal rights—" something Rowen had absolutely no business claiming credit for, but was going to all the same, "— and I am practically the only fifth-year not heartbroken this month." She beamed because even that was an accomplishment on her long list. Rowen wasn't dating anyone, but that didn't matter either.

Folding her hands in her lap and ankles to the side under the table, Rowen sat up straight. The pride radiating off of the budding dark witch was palpable. "And you? Are you eager to go on holiday with Genevieve?"

In ways, Rowen reminded him a lot of his sister. She was very poised and elegant and he could tell from the way she'd hung her cloak that she took care with her dress. His pale blue eyes softened as he watched the younger witch for a moment. Bren was quite lucky, though, he knew his older cousin was a bit dense that way. Always letting the best things slip through unsuspecting fingertips. He shifted to adjust his vest before he rested a menu on the table for her opposite the gifts that had now drawn his eye. "Well," a hand reached out to gently graze the bow atop the gift she had brought. "Now that is a rather tempting offer. How about this…" he began before he rested his index finger to his lips thoughtfully, "You can open this one." He took the small box from the table and cradled it in both hands palms up. "But this other one." his head inclined to the silk-covered cage next to him, "We'll save for last."

He sat back in his seat as he prepared to hear what the year had brought to her. He hadn't finished his years at Hogwarts and found that knowledge regrettable even if the reasoning behind it was justified. He might have healed better surrounded by his friends building important relationships along the way. His brows rose as he listened to his cousin and he found that her accomplishments made him feel proud. Not because he had done anything to help her attain them but rather because she was driven enough to seek out such things. To strive for greatness and never allow failure to defeat her. "This is good, keep up this impressive display and I promise grandfather will take notice." his lips pursed as he considered her, "But brilliant minds need to be cultivated not put to work. I wouldn't want to overwhelm you with responsibility." he said softly, knowing his words might pull a reaction from her, "I know being a teenaged girl can be.. tiresome." he teased as he grinned, "what with all the potions and the hair curling. However, you don't strike me as the type to allow that to get in the way of a goal."

He gave her a slight smile, "Throughout the summer I'm set to involve myself more with the company. How would you like a paying summer job putting those number skills to use?" his head tilted bright locks swaying in the process, "But, think on it. I want you to be sure because you'll be working with important things and lack of focus won't bode well." he didn't want to take her summer away from her but he felt that getting a feel of the family business was better started early. How else would they find their passions if not realizing whether the family business was suited for them, or, if they were suited for the family business. For him it was different. Wolfgang had been groomed for his position even before it was his, his father was always so hopeful. He knew the extent of his responsibilities and what would befall his family should he fail. His brows rose slightly as he considered her for a moment, "Speaking of not being heartbroken. Should I prepare to meet these hopeful gentlemen callers at a family brunch? I would love to meet your friends." so that he might intimidate them for sure. It was the only way he knew to behave unless he was well behaved.

"So very eager." he said in response to her question, "It's been far too long since I've had Genevieve all to myself. I miss just talking without a worry of the world." he shrugged as he spoke as if to take the weight from his declarations. "I think getting away to the island would be good for us both. Away from the world and responsibility for just a few days. However, while I'm away Taylor will be at your disposal. He's been informed should he fail to meet your needs he will answer to me." he shifted to remove the bracelet he wore to hold it out to her. "To beckon him with." he grinned. He'd often used the charmed jewelry to call the man as he wore a bracelet that mirrored the one he was now gifting to his cousin. He looked up as the waitress arrived and he inclined his head to Rowen not bother to speak to the woman as he lazily looked over the menu. Full lips pursed ever so slightly as he considered his options.

Rowen smiled, pleased with the compromise because it favored her, and nodded to her favorite cousin. She shouldn’t have asked to open her gifts first; after all, it was his birthday, but she had anyway. And Wolfgang had not seemed to mind. So when he presented her with the small box, she accepted it gracefully. “Thank you,” She said, careful not to wrinkle the ribbon as she began to unwrap it. Rowen placed the lid delicately on the table as his eyes careened over the contents. “A key,” She said excitedly, her shoulders bouncing anxiously, “But to what, I wonder?” Rowen could list many amazing things that might need a key, but she waited for Wolfgang to enlighten her.

Telling him about her year so far at Hogwarts was a comfort; while Rowen loved reliving her exploits with Genevieve, conversations with Wolfgang were certainly less pressured. Even though he was being groomed to take over the family business and become the most powerful of the Reinhardts, Rowen still felt that same comfort around him she always had. Wolfgang would protect her, but more than that, he listened without telling her what to do. Indeed he had his opinions and judgments, and Rowen was careful to leave out anything that might anger him, but he always supported her. And the young witch appreciated that especially in the demanding world they lived in.

“I will,” She nodded; there wasn’t a power in the magical world that could keep her from achieving her dreams. Rowen was motivated. And Wolfgang’s words just added fuel to her already blazing fire. Being perfect at everything wasn’t easy, though, and despite how hard she tried, Rowen’s shortcomings were still there. Bleeding through like reminders, she could never wash away. She slept for less than she should have, and it was hard to find close friends to rely on, but she didn’t mention any of that to Wolfgang, either.

“A summer job?” She asked him, her smile brightening, not because it was paid but because it was something she could crush. Rowen was the type of witch who lived for walking into new situations and becoming the best. “I appreciate the offer; I will let you know.” Rowen hid her eagerness with politeness and gave him another curt nod. It was more appropriate to shelve the discussion later, and Rowen was proper, if nothing else.

Wolfgang’s comment about suitors caught her off guard, though, and her etiquette nearly slipped. “Oh, please,” She said before sitting up straight and correcting herself. “What I mean to say is I would never bring a surprise guest to a brunch. Should I find someone suitable to bring to your home, I would respectfully owl Genevieve ahead of time.” But what she meant was ‘Never in a million years would I bring one of the pimple-faced dumbass prats from Hogwarts to brunch.’ But Rowen left that out too. She thought to leave it at that, but Wolfgang had brought it up, and it seemed too perfect an opportunity to waste, so after he had explained his joy about the pending vacation and leaving Taylor in her debt, Rowen opened her mouth to speak, and then paused.

It would be improper to skip to small talk and jump straight into asking him for a favor, and that wouldn’t do. Rowen could nearly hear the tsking sound coming from Genevieve in the back of her mind. The older witch was always there, like a guiding spirit, and Rowen was right to listen. “I do hope you enjoy yourselves,” She said respectfully, the slight smile gracing her features once more, and it wasn’t a lie. Wolfgang deserved happiness, and Rowen hoped he found it. She could only imagine the sort of pressure he was under. “And thank you for always taking care of me.” Rowen meant more than just assigning Taylor for the duration of his trip, but she hoped he would get that from context. Wolfgang had always looked out for her, and for possibly the first time in a long time, Rowen needed his help.

“So, I hate to bring up such a tragic topic before tea, but it is rather pressing.” She began, the smallest of curls falling into her face, and Rowen was quick to tuck it back under the pin. “Have you heard anything about Grandfather arranging a marriage with the Heyward heir?” Horus Heyward the Fourth was a pureblood Ravenclaw in her year, half British, Half Egyptian, and a full-on snoozefest. He was uninteresting in every way possible, and not even the staggering wealth of his academic parents could change that. She scrunched her nose, clearly displeased by the subject, and waited for an answer. If the rumor she’d heard about her parents approaching the head of the family to propose the arrangement held any truth, Rowen was sure Wolfgang would know about it.