[Harry Potter] Etched in My Heart

"Engraved in my bones, flowing in my blood. A feeling that is mine alone, etched into my heart forever."

Aastia once believed that as a child, she was the happiest person in the world. She had a family who loved her, friends who trusted one another, and... a lover she could entrust her whole life to. Then some of them left her forever... Only then did she truly understand what Dumbledore had once told her:

"What do you think makes something stay with us forever?"

"Um... love?"

"No, not just love. It could also be friendship, family, or even hatred. There are many things that can stay with us forever, but what matters is the choice you make."

"My choice?"

"Yes, child, your choice. Or perhaps, the choice of your heart."

At the time, I couldn't understand the deeper meaning behind those words from the old man. But later, when I was most lost and helpless, they became the last straw keeping me afloat. They lit the beacon in my heart and guided me back to where I belonged.

Professor Dumbledore was right. We can't choose which people or things we will never forget, but at least I can choose what feelings I will hold dear forever. I'm grateful that, in the end, I didn't lose myself, and that the people I held dear never gave up on saving me.

This is the coming-of-age story of Aastia Lestrange, Slytherin's infamous prankster. She will grow from an arrogant, rude, self-centered, willful, mischievous brat into someone brave and strong, with firm convictions and an ability to get things done. Through her own efforts and the help of others, she will also emerge from the shadows of her past. She is the most Gryffindor of Slytherins, and the most Slytherin of Gryffindors. She is clever and brave, fearless yet measured. Along the way, she forms many relationships that will stay with her forever.

P.S.

* Original female protagonist. She forms friendships and relationships beyond friendship with certain characters from the original series. If that bothers you, please steer clear.

* The protagonist isn't particularly likable and needs to grow. Perhaps you'll want to witness her becoming a better person?

* Contains many original settings and various connections to characters from the original series. If anything feels out of character or unreasonable, please point it out. I apologize in advance.

* Nobody is perfect.

Theme: Feelings that stay with you forever