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Alder

Alder wood is best suited for non-verbal spell work.

It was the worst way he could have found her; standing on the edge of the ramparts, atop of the Astronomy Tower. If any other person had found Luna in this position they would have deemed her more insane than she was, but not Harry.

It was silent between them, words not needed to understand each other. Harry carefully pulled himself up and stood against the wall next to Luna, the wind blowing around them. This was their freedom, their way to feel closest to those they loved the most. One had lost a beloved mother and the other had his parents taken from him. The pain would forever be there but it was this history of heartbreak that had brought these two together.

It was windy and cold, uncomfortable to the two students, but it was necessary to bare. The adrenaline pumped through their veins and the caress from the wind would always keep them reminded… all it would take was just one small step.

They had never been this bold before though. Harry would meet Luna at the tower after dinner and together they would watch the sun set behind the Black Lake. No need for conversation, just the company of the other was required. Sometimes they would hold hands, feeling the support and comfort of another hurt soul. Other times Harry would hold a weeping Luna, rubbing small circles on her back and stroke her hair lovingly. Luna would then listen to an angry Harry, as he screamed his heart into the wind until his voice would go raw. During these times a silencing charm would be erected, so no one but them would hear.

These trips became more frequent as the months wore on. Together they would release their frustrations and fears. Slowly but surely they built a thick wall of trust and understanding, sharing feelings deeper than what they thought possible. When one did not turn up the other could not relax, and soon the promise was made to meet every night. It wasn't physically said but the meaning was still there. During the day they would carry on as usual; classes, study, quidditch, and friends. Sometimes glances would be exchanged across the Great Hall or they would quietly read in the library together. No one knew of their arrangement and they liked it that way.

Luna held her arms open to the world as Harry kept his behind her; always ready to catch her if she were to fall. She laughed as the wind picked up, harshly blowing at her face, making her hair dance in every direction. Harry laughed as well, easily picking up the cheerfulness she portrayed. Luna spun quickly around; wobbling as she almost stumbled over. Harry jumped forward and wrapped his arms around her waist, holding her steady. She smiled as he glanced down into her eyes, twinkling with unabashed amusement. They were two broken souls but had two mending hearts.