Nestled in the southern garden, just beyond the flower beds and statues, stood the revered Magical Botany Wing—an expansive greenhouse shimmering with glass panels, enchanted to regulate warmth and humidity perfectly for the delicate magical plants inside.
Eira and Marin walked side by side across the gravel path toward the greenhouse, their robes catching soft glimmers of the dawn as they approached. The air was fragrant with the scent of damp earth and blossoming flora, a sharp contrast to the tension and intrigue that often weighed upon their lives.
Marin nudged Eira gently with a grin. "You look forward to Professor Lioré's class?"
Eira smiled softly. "Always. There's something peaceful about working with plants. It's different from all the other classes and… especially the potion class."
Marin nodded thoughtfully. "It's like a little oasis."
As they stepped inside the greenhouse, a warm, humid air embraced them. The soft glow of sunlight filtered through the stained-glass ceiling, illuminating rows of exotic magical plants in hues ranging from iridescent blues to fiery reds.
Professor Lioré stood near the center, tending carefully to a cluster of shimmering moonflowers. His silver-streaked hair framed a kind, weathered face, and his eyes sparkled with gentle enthusiasm as he looked up and saw the students entering.
"Come in, come in, my beautiful and smart botanists!" he greeted, voice warm and inviting. "Welcome to your first Magical Botany class of the new term!"
The students settled among the benches scattered between beds of vibrant plants and enchanted vines curling along trellises.
Professor Lioré's smile deepened as he scanned the familiar faces. "Today, we will be introduced to a very special plant—one that holds great promise and power in the magical world."
He paused, then turned to Eira with a nod and a smile. "Before we begin, I must express my deepest appreciation, Lady White. Your generous donation of 50,000 galleons to the Magical Garden of Eden has been nothing short of transformative."
Eira's cheeks flushed slightly as the other students murmured in admiration.
"Indeed," the professor continued, "I had expected a contribution of perhaps 5,000 or even 10,000 galleons—still significant—but your magnanimity far exceeded our hopes. With these funds, we have been able to acquire new magical artifacts and protective charms for the plants, ensuring their preservation in ways previously impossible."
He gestured toward several rare plants shimmering under the protective wards.
"The Garden's caretakers were overjoyed," he said. "As I'm sure you've seen in the recent magical newspapers, many problems that had threatened the sanctuary were resolved in the past weeks thanks to your support. Others from noble families have also stepped forward, inspired by your generosity."
Eira inclined her head respectfully. "Thank you, Professor, for informing me about the needs of the Magical Garden of Eden. Your reminder has prompted me to contribute, and I will gladly dedicate the necessary support. It's important we all do our part."
Professor Lioré smiled warmly. "You are very humble, Eira. I merely reminded you, but your generosity and commitment to take action—especially dedicating your time and resources—are truly appreciated. It means a great deal."
With a graceful wave of his hand, he shifted the attention back to the plants.
"But enough praise for today! Let us not waste these precious moments in idle talk. The plants await us!"
The students leaned forward eagerly as the professor guided them to a section of the greenhouse where a curious plant stood—a small shrub with deep green leaves that shimmered faintly with an otherworldly glow.
"This, my friends," Professor Lioré announced, "is the Lumina Verdant—a magical plant native to the deep forests of the French Ardennes. Compared to many other magical plants discovered throughout history, this one was identified only in recent centuries."
He reached out gently to stroke a leaf, which pulsed softly with a warm light.
"The Lumina Verdant is remarkable for its bioluminescent properties, producing a gentle light that can brighten even the darkest environments. For centuries, it has been prized by magical herbalists and potion-makers alike."
The professor carefully plucked a small bud and handed it to Eira. "Take a closer look. Notice the subtle glow and the delicate veins running through the leaves, like tiny rivers of light."
Eira examined the bud closely, marveling at the soft illumination that seemed to pulse with a heartbeat of its own.
"This plant thrives in damp, shaded areas," the professor explained, "preferring the cool, fertile soil near streams and moss-covered rocks. It is notoriously difficult to cultivate outside its natural habitat, but with proper enchantments and care, it can flourish in a greenhouse like ours."
He gestured to a bed of carefully tended Lumina Verdant shrubs, each glowing softly beneath protective wards.
"Not only does the Lumina Verdant serve as a natural light source," he continued, "but its leaves possess potent restorative properties. They are used in potions that aid in healing magical exhaustion and accelerating recovery from curses."
The students' interest deepened as he described the plant's applications.
"To cultivate the Lumina Verdant," Professor Lioré said, "one must ensure a constant supply of moisture and maintain soil rich in mineral deposits. Too much sunlight will diminish its glow, so partial shade is essential."
He led the class through the meticulous steps of planting, watering, and enchanting the shrubs to promote growth.
Eira and Marin carefully followed the instructions, feeling the pulse of magic flow through their hands as they tended the plants.
As the lesson progressed, Professor Lioré shared stories of how the Lumina Verdant had saved lives in times of war—its restorative potions healing grievous wounds on battlefields hidden from Muggle eyes.
"Plants are not mere decorations," he reminded the class. "They are living allies in the magical arts. Understanding their nature enriches our power and deepens our connection to the world."
The students nodded, captivated by his words and the serene beauty of the glowing shrubs.
Toward the end of the class, Professor Lioré gathered the students for a brief quiz to reinforce their learning.
"Who can tell me the natural habitat of the Lumina Verdant?" he asked, eyes twinkling.
Marin raised his hand hesitantly. "The French Ardennes forests, near streams and shaded rocks?"
"Excellent!" the professor exclaimed. "And what conditions does it require to thrive in cultivation?"
Eira answered smoothly. "Moist soil, partial shade, and mineral-rich earth. It is sensitive to sunlight but needs constant humidity."
"Well done, both of you," Professor Lioré praised. "I can already see many skilled botanists among you."
As the class drew to a close, the professor gathered the students for one last demonstration, releasing a gentle breeze that carried the faint glow of the Lumina Verdant throughout the greenhouse, bathing everyone in soft, enchanting light.
After spending a long time working with plants, Eira walked out of the greenhouse alongside Marin, making her way toward Ombrelune Dormitory's hall, eager for a tasty lunch.