Disclaimer: All locations, characters, objects, etc. from the Harry Potter series
that appear in this series of ficlets were created by J. K. Rowling. Any featured
SSRPG characters that do not reside in my head will be credited accordingly.

Hello, friends! This holiday season I will be participating in the Bertie Bott's Limited Edition Holiday Flavours ficlet challenge. Here you will witness 25 holiday-themed moments from the life of my Gryffindor-coded Hogwarts RPG character Logan Paton.

Wishing you all a splendid festive season, and happy reading!

1. Carols 2. Advent 3. Candy Canes 4. Chimney 5. Scrooge 6. Jolly 7. Eggnog 8. Chestnuts 9. Mistletoe
10. Bells 11. Sleigh 12. Reindeer 13. Gingerbread 14. Candlelight 15. Nutcracker 16. Plum Pudding 17. Wreath
18. Tinsel 19. Fruitcake 20. Presents 21. Snowman 22. Coal 23. Decorate 24. Ice Skating 25. Ugly Sweater

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1. Carols

"Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas, ring the Hogwarts bell. Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas, cast a Christmas spell..."

The blond found himself trapped in a seemingly never-ending rehearsal of the tune. With every word that was sung and each repetitive rendition, his patience wore thin. This had to have been the hundredth time they had recited these words within the past hour. A look was cast over to Vera and Sable, silently questioning if it was just him or if they also were ready to move on to different festive carols.

Suddenly the serene atmosphere of the music room was shattered by the jarring chime of bells from above.

"DING-DONG, DING-DONG! RING THE HOGWARTS BELL! DING-DONG, DING-DONG! PEW! WHAT'S THAT AWFUL SMELL?" The cacophonic voice of the disruptive poltergeist echoed throughout the music room.

The choir members, caught off guard, braced themselves for the worst. Yet, to their initial relief, nothing alarming happened. A collective sigh and nervous smiles were exchanged. However, the temporary respite was short-lived. Without warning, all fell victim to a flurry of dungbombs, transforming the once harmonious rehearsal space into utter chaos.

Logan bolted toward the door in a desperate attempt to escape the unexpected assault.

Featured Characters:
Sable Armstrong (SilverTiger)
Vera Thanatos (Chelliephone)

2. Advent

Instead of sharing a family advent calendar, this Christmas brought a new twist: everyone had their own. The six-year-old couldn't contain his excitement at the prospect of having a personalised calendar. The mere thought of not having to share the chocolate treasures hidden behind the tiny doors with Nova, Melody, and especially Bryony felt like a dream come true.

"Alright, everyone! It is time to open door number four!" announced Hadleigh Paton, her affectionate voice carrying through the cozy house.

A clamour of footsteps sounded from upstairs, causing the young boy to move frantically to a spot in the living room where the light wouldn't fully illuminate him.

He watched as the calendars were grabbed one by one. The first was sleek and silver, the next adorned with musical notes, followed by a blindingly pink box featuring cute, chunky cartoon creatures. Finally, attention turned to his own.

"Logan, did you open everyone's boxes?" inquired his mother, her arms crossed, with a tone that suggested more than mere suspicion.

The boy quickly put on his most angelic face. "It wasn't me!" he squeaked, his wide eyes pleading innocence as he attempted to conceal the bits of chocolate smeared around his mouth.

Featured Characters:
Bryony Paton (Kolyander)
Hadleigh Paton (Kolyander)
Nova Paton (FearlessLeader19)
Melody Paton (SilverTiger)

3. Candy Canes

The festive buzz at Hogwarts was at its peak, and Logan had decided to spread some holiday cheer in his own unique way.

Armed with a bag full of candy canes, the blond, with a mischievous glint in his eye, weaved through the crowded halls of the castle. Approaching unsuspecting students, he silently slipped candy canes into their hands with a grin before darting away like a holiday sprite. Some blushed at the unexpected gesture, while others couldn't help but stare at him with bewildered looks on their faces.

Peering around the corner, he observed a trio of students displaying different reactions to the messages attached to the cane-shaped sticks. Laughter erupted as one read a crude joke, another scratched their head in utter confusion, and the last seemed on the verge of bursting into tears at being insulted out of the blue.

He would have laughed at the sight, though the teenager was distracted by a particular brunette that had walked by. His hand grazed a special candy cane tucked away in his pocket.

The great debate continued: Should he deliver the sweet containing a heartfelt message to Vera directly or sneak it in her satchel without her noticing?

Featured Characters:
Vera Thanatos (Chelliephone)

4. Chimney

The holiday season enveloped the common room, and Logan found himself drawn to the fireplace. Its dormant flames failed to capture his attention as he was lost in thought about the latest Muggle Studies lesson on the tale of Father Christmas. He contemplated how it was possible for a full-grown man, a rather large one at that, to navigate such a tight space. Needless to say, the boy couldn't help but be curious about the experience.

It was at that moment he decided to put his musings to the test. Without a second thought, he stepped into the fireplace and began to ascend. Soot immediately clung to his hands and robes as he gingerly scaled the vertical channel. He was unfazed by the dirt that adorned him; the thrill of the climb only intensified his determination.

However, panic flickered in his eyes when he suddenly found himself unable to move. He had managed to wedge himself halfway up, legs now dangling in the air.

"HELLO? CAN SOMEONE HELP ME?"

Footsteps approached, accompanied by a burst of laughter.

"Oi! Come check this out! Father Christmas is stuck in the chimney," someone loudly proclaimed, drawing the attention of a dozen other Gryffindors.

5. Scrooge

"Loggy! Come outside and play with me!"

A groan escaped the preteen's mouth. There was no urge to check the clock sitting on his nightstand. Having just returned from school for the holiday, he rebelled against the notion of entertaining his enthusiastic sister so early in the morning.

"Go away, Bry," he mumbled, pulling the comforter over his head, attempting to shield himself from the intrusion of the waking world. Despite his words, Logan could hear Bryony approaching, her footsteps growing closer, and then he felt her persistent tugging.

"Please, Loggy? Pretty pleeeeeease? We can go sledding ... or make a fort ... or —"

"I don't want to right now. I want to sleep."

"Come on! You never play with me anymores! You can sleeps later!"

Logan remained stubbornly cocooned in his covers, showing no intention of emerging. He could sense Bryony's eyes shooting ice daggers at him.

"You is — you is being such a — such a Scrooge!" the youngest Paton suddenly wailed, her voice a mix of frustration and suppressed tears.

"Bah! Humbug!" he retorted, finally forcing himself out of bed. Grumpily, he ushered her out of his room, slamming the door shut with an air of exaggerated finality.

Featured Characters:
Bryony Paton (Kolyander)

6. Jolly

Dawn painted the sky in hues of pink and gold as Logan climbed down the stairs, a subtle magic in the air signalling the arrival of Christmas morning. Blinking away the remnants of sleep, he found himself standing in front of an array of presents, each wrapped in shimmering paper and adorned with intricate bows. The sight filled him with a warmth of holiday cheer, dispelling any lingering traces of sleepiness.

Unable to resist the allure of the neatly wrapped gifts, his eyes gleamed. The temptation to sneak a peek and unravel the mysteries concealed within tugged at him. His fingers itched to feel the crinkle of the paper, to discover the items inside.

The allure of a particular box proved irresistible, the urge to reveal its contents intensifying. He did, however, manage to maintain some degree of self-control. Refraining from ripping apart the wrapping, he tested the weight of the box and gave it a firm shake. The process continued as he inspected the other packages labelled with his name.

Moments later, a mountain of gifts surrounded him, which made him feel quite jolly indeed. Unable to wait any longer, he left the pile to loudly wake the others.

7. Eggnog

"What's that, Papa?"

"It's eggnog."

The blond blinked as he processed the word, his young mind grappling with the concept of this mysterious drink in his father's hand. He watched another swig be taken from the glass. He understood the egg part though was baffled at why someone would want to drink them, and what exactly a "nog" was remained elusive.

"Can I try?" he asked, his curiosity piqued. The assumption, that whatever eggnog was had to be good since an accomplished Auror like his dad was drinking it, fueled his eagerness.

Frankie, a knowing twinkle in his eye, handed over the glass. "Just take a sip. There is a chance you might not like it."

Undeterred by the warning, Logan carried on with taking a sizable gulp. His taste buds were instantly met with an unexpected blend of flavours. His eyes widened, the momentary illusion of what surely had to have been a magical holiday beverage shattering as he promptly spat out the vile, slimy awfulness onto the floor. The aftertaste caused his face to contort in disgust.

Taking back the creamy liquid, the man laughed heartily as he patted his son on the back. "Not a fan, huh?"

8. Chestnuts

Amid the twinkling lights and festive chaos of the holiday season, the blond and his best friend decided to embark on a chestnut-roasting adventure. Armed with a bag of chestnuts and an optimistic spirit, they gathered around the fireplace, ready to channel their inner culinary wizards.

Logan, ever the daredevil, insisted on an unconventional roasting method. "Let's use magic! It'll be way faster."

Vasco hesitated, glancing around apprehensively. "I don't think that's a good —"

"Incendio!"

Bright orange-red flames jetted out of the wand, enveloping the chestnuts and instantly causing them to pop open and expand. A smug look was directed toward the Ravenclaw, one that conveyed the impression that he was a genius for thinking of the spell that promised roasted chestnuts in seconds.

However, the result was less a magical feat and more of an explosive disaster. Chestnuts ricocheted like small, brown fireworks, bouncing off walls and even hitting their heads. The room turned into a battlefield, with the two boys ducking and dodging.

Amid the chaos, Logan couldn't help but laugh, chestnut shells bouncing off his hair like a festive shower. Vasco, too, joined in the merriment before commenting, "Next time we're sticking to traditional roasting methods, mate."

Featured Characters:
Vasco Thanatos (Kolyander)

9. Mistletoe

"You've really outdone yourself!"

The common room had undergone a miraculous transformation, resembling a scene straight out of a Muggle Hallmark card. Logan could not help but marvel at Vera's decorating prowess. Braids, knots, and wreaths of garland could be found in every available space. The tree, a recent addition that had seemingly appeared near the crackling fireplace overnight, stood proudly with its branches decked with twinkling lights, shimmering tinsel, and an array of bulbous ornaments.

Had he not been engrossed in examining every nook and cranny, he would have noticed the subtle blush that coloured Vera's cheeks, her eyes sparkling with heartfelt gratitude. "Thanks. I wanted to make it special for everyone."

As Logan's gaze wandered, he noticed the vibrant evergreen leaves hanging strategically above them. Unspoken tension filled the space, and he couldn't resist the suggestion that such tradition demanded. The flicker of a playful smile tugged at the corners of his lips.

"You know, there's mistletoe right above us. Tradition says we should..." His voice held a hint of mirth.

Without missing a beat, he closed the distance between them, letting a sweet kiss finish his lingering words. For a brief moment, time seemed to stand still.

Featured Characters:
Vera Thanatos (Chelliephone)

10. Bells

Logan, armed with a twinkle in his eye, seized the opportunity for some mischief. Clutching a set of bells, he darted around the house, exuding chaos with each step.

His sisters were deeply immersed in an array of Christmas crafts in the living room when he unleashed the racket of bells. Annoyance rippled through the house as the boy danced his way into the room, shaking the bells with boundless energy, a one-man band of festive disruption.

Melody sighed, attempting to be the voice of reason. "Logan, can you see that we're trying to —"

Jingle, jingle, jingle.

"Logan, seriously, cut it out!" shouted Nova right before she flung a ball of crimson yarn his way.

The obnoxious bell ringing continued, somehow intensifying with each passing second. The looks on the older girl's faces made it clear that they were not impressed with their brother's antics. Bryony, however, started chasing after him, determined to join in the ruckus because it seemed more fun.

"Gimme some of those!"

Laughter rang out, the jingling bells accompanying his glee as he carried on running around the room, dodging craft items that were being thrown at him and refusing to give up even one bell.

Featured Characters:
Bryony Paton (Kolyander)
Melody Paton (SilverTiger)
Nova Paton (FearlessLeader19)

11. Sleigh

In the backyard, the blond, fuelled by the fall of fresh white powder, was improvising a winter adventure. After grabbing a wooden sled from the shed, he transformed it into a makeshift sleigh, draping tattered blankets over the structure and fashioning a jump rope into makeshift reins.

"Beeeeeeeans! Come here, boy!" he called out, knowing that the crup was likely exploring the snowy wonderland, perhaps burrowed in the bushes or on a scavenger hunt for bones that had been buried long ago.

The canine obediently emerged, kicking up snow with excitement at being summoned by his boy.

Logan grinned, giving Beans the sweetest of looks and holding out his hand, beckoning the furball to come closer. "It's okay, Beans. We're going on a magical ride. I am just going to slip this through your leash..."

Blissfully unaware, Beans wagged his tail in delight, ready to partake in the unexpected holiday adventure.

Logan took a seat on the sled, an eager gleam in his eye. "Onward, Beans! Go! Go! Go! Go!"

At the command, Beans shot off like a rocket, paws skimming over the snow. Caught off guard by the crup's sudden burst of energy, the boy found himself hurtling backward.

12. Reindeer

Even though he had visited Scamander Zoo more times than he could remember, Logan always found something different to capture his fascination. Today was a special day for the blond, who was spending quality time with his mother, and the anticipation sparkled in his eyes as they strolled through the mystical landscapes one enchanting December afternoon.

"Mum, look! Reindeers!" he exclaimed, a wide grin spreading across his face as a tiny finger pointed at the majestic creatures near the edge of the forest enclosure.

Hadleigh's eyes twinkled with amusement as she took in the sight of a group of three large, cloven-hoofed beasts that resembled moose. "Sweetheart, those are Leucrotta, not reindeer," she gently corrected, her voice filled with the warmth of maternal affection.

Undeterred, Logan insisted, "But look at those antlers! They're just like the ones in the picture books!"

As they observed the Leucrotta graze the snow-covered plantlife with their huge mouths, the boy's wonder transformed the mystical creatures into magical reindeer in his imagination, a fusion of reality and festive fantasy.

"D'you know their names? Is there one with a red nose around? How do they fly?"

The woman, indulging her son's innocence, couldn't help but chuckle.

Featured Characters:
Hadleigh Paton (Kolyander)

13. Gingerbread

The kitchen was alive with festive creativity as gingerbread house decorating ensued. Unbridled with enthusiasm, Logan surprisingly managed to remain seated at the table alongside his family. His usual restlessness was replaced by a concentration uncharacteristically honed on creating a masterpiece.

Icing flew in every direction, gumdrops haphazardly scattered like confetti, and walls threatened to crumble under the weight of unevenly distributed candy. Logan's gingerbread house bore the unmistakable signs of a creative whirlwind that contrasted the meticulously crafted masterpieces his two older sisters and his mother, holding a baby in one arm, had created. Melody's eyebrow arched after glancing at his creation, and Nova attempted to stifle a laugh.

"Is that even a gingerbread house anymore?"

"It looks like a tornado came through!"

"Well, if there were any doubts before, we certainly know whose son Logan is now," his mother teased with a smile, her gaze playfully shifting between the creations of the boy and his older lookalike.

The blond lifted his head, catching sight of his father's equally chaotic gingerbread house. The Auror, rolling his eyes in jest, tossed a gumdrop at his mum, setting off a playful candy exchange that turned the kitchen into a sugary battleground.

Featured Characters:
Bryony Paton (Kolyander)
Hadleigh Paton (Kolyander)
Melody Paton (SilverTiger)
Nova Paton (FearlessLeader19)

14. Candlelight

In the dimly lit spare office, Logan and Vera found themselves engrossed in the enchantment of flickering candlelight. The room exuded a serene glow, the dancing flame casting intricate patterns across the walls, creating a magical ambiance that captivated them both more than studying for History of Magic ever could.

Vera, a thick textbook nestled in her lap, looked up, her eyes reflecting the gentle flicker of a candle. "The candle makes everything feel so cosy, doesn't it?"

The blond nodded, drawn in by the mesmerising dance of light and shadow. "Yeah, it's like a whole different world in here." The weight of parchment and the monotony of pointless dates, names, and events seemed to fade away in the warm embrace of the candlelight.

They sat in comfortable silence. As the flame danced, casting playful shadows, Logan caught Vera's gaze lingering on the dancing light.

"Wanna try something?" he asked, a mischievous glint in his eye.

Curiosity sparked in the brunette's expression, and she nodded in agreement. Without further words, Logan blew out the candle. As the room plunged into darkness, the outlines of their surroundings became barely visible. In the quiet, he moved closer so their lips could meet.

Featured Characters:
Vera Thanatos (Chelliephone)

15. Nutcracker

With excitement buzzing in the air, Logan entered the grand theatre through its sculpted wooden doors, his gaze immediately drawn upward to the ornate, decorated ceilings. The elaborate golden engravings captivated him like a curious niffler drawn to treasure, luring him into the enchanting atmosphere. The aura of the place left him in awe, heightened as they crossed into the auditorium, the anticipation for a magical spectacle growing as they settled into their plush red seats, hand-in-hand.

"Oh! It's about to start," the brunette's voice sounded with contagious excitement, her eyes sparkling.

As the curtains rose, unveiling ballerinas poised in elegant positions, Logan squinted, expecting the promised tale of an epic holiday duel.

To his bewilderment, the dance began, not with wands and wizardry, but with graceful leaps and pirouettes. Logan's initial confusion prompted a sideways glance at Vera, who sat beside him with an innocent guise that he suspected was concealing a smirk.

The Nutcracker's journey continued on the stage, its grandeur unfolding like a mesmerising lullaby. Nestled in the velvety darkness, it did not take long for Logan to succumb to the cadence of the ballet. His eyelids grew heavy and he eventually surrendered, drifting off into slumber.

Featured Characters:
Vera Thanatos (Chelliephone)

16. Plum Pudding

Mountains of the dense dessert were piled in front of them in the festive glow of the Great Hall. The two best friends had made the impromptu decision to embark on a dubious competition that would determine who could consume the most before succumbing to a sweet-induced fate.

Vera and Sable, seated nearby, exchanged bemused glances. Their expressions shifted from mild amusement to mild disgust as the two boys shoveled spoonfuls of plum pudding into their mouths. Logan's eyes sparkled with nothing but determination, while Vasco's bravado showed no signs of wavering with each bite.

The surrounding students glanced over, torn between curiosity and apprehension as the boys continued their gluttonous feat. Their cheeks flushed as they raced against each other, pushing their limits. Vasco's face transformed from enthusiasm to a slightly queasy shade of green, while Logan, equally worse for wear, tried to hold onto his pride.

Sable muttered to Vera, "Why on earth did we agree to watch this?"

Vera chuckled, shaking her head. "No idea. But it's oddly entertaining. Any bets on who will —"

The two boys suddenly exchanged sheepish looks at each other before they darted out of the dining room to locate the nearest bathroom.

Featured Characters:
Sable Armstrong (SilverTiger)
Vasco Thanatos (Kolyander)
Vera Thanatos (Chelliephone)

17. Wreath

With the Christmas holiday over a week away, Logan found himself engrossed in perfecting the wreath-conjuration spell. Circular twirls of his wand and a melodic incantation filled the air as he conjured delicate wreaths adorned with vibrant holly and festive ribbons. The Transfiguration classroom echoed with the magic of the holiday season as wreaths multiplied in splendid harmony.

The blond's concentration wavered, however, when he caught a glimpse of the brunette, engrossed in her own spellcasting. His gaze lingered longer than intended, causing the wreath being conjured to lose its form and dissolve into a flurry of red and green confetti.

Professor Carton, noticing the mishap, approached with a twinkle in his eye. "Ah, Mr. Paton, I would encourage you to not let your mind wander mid-cast. Remember, focus is the key to successful spellcasting."

"Sorry, sir." Logan blushed, offering a sheepish grin, as he attempted to regain his concentration.

Yet, every time he glanced at Vera, his wreaths seemed to have a mind of their own. The classroom, once filled with the orderly display of wreaths, now bore witness to the chaos of Logan's casting: holly bursting like inflated balloons and a tornado of ribbon creating an entangled mess.

Featured Characters:
Norman Carton (MadMadamMalfoy)
Vera Thanatos (Chelliephone)

18. Tinsel

The study hall was bathed in a serene glow as Vasco, nose buried deep in one of his textbooks, focused intently on his studies. Seizing the perfect opportunity for shenanigans, Logan tip-toed into the room, armed with an armful of glittering tinsel. His eyes glinted mischievously as he approached Vasco's table.

Silently, the blond began to weave the tinsel through his best friend's meticulously arranged quills and ink bottles. The festive strands gently draped over the edge of his parchment, creating an unsuspecting canvas for Logan's holiday prank.

Engrossed in his reading, the Ravenclaw remained oblivious to the subtle intrusion, the soft rustle of tinsel escaping his notice. As the Gryffindor added a finishing touch, a tinsel halo adorned Vasco's head, the glittering strands cascading down like a waterfall.

Unable to contain his laughter any longer, Logan let out a hearty chuckle, alerting Vasco to the holiday transformation. "You look absolutely fabulous, Birdbrain."

Startled, Vasco looked up, discovering himself in a winter wonderland of tinsel.

"Logan, you rascal!" he exclaimed, a playful grin breaking across his face as he rose from his seat and chased after the blond, tinsel trailing behind him. The once-serene study hall erupted into contagious laughter.

Featured Characters:
Vasco Thanatos (Kolyander)

19. Fruitcake

"Do you ever stop eating?" asked one of the older Gryffindors, their eyes wide at the sight of the first-year boy who, although the majority of those in the dining hall had started making their departure, was still zealously shoveling food into his mouth.

"Wha'? I'm still 'ungry," Logan replied defensively, his words muffled by a mouthful of food as he hastily reached for his next helping of fruitcake. Hands navigated their way between the mountain of plates containing the remnants of enormous legs of turkey, gravy-covered mashed potatoes, and various delicacies that had been prepared by the house-elves that evening.

Sable's voice chimed in with a casual explanation to the older student, "This is normal for him. You'll get used to it."

"He's a bottomless pit," added Vera nonchalantly, a hint of amusement in her tone. "Just don't feed him after midnight."

Curiosity crept into the older student's expression. "Why? What happens if you —"

A sudden, resounding belch interrupted any further inquiry, emanating loudly from Logan's mouth. Unfazed, he continued his relentless assault on the feast, his voracious appetite seemingly insatiable.

"He takes on his gremlin form and causes mass mayhem," Vera quipped, a smirk playing on her lips.

Featured Characters:
Sable Armstrong (SilverTiger)
Vera Thanatos (Chelliephone)

20. Presents

The four-year-old boy was smiling from ear to ear, quite satisfied with this year's haul. Logan was surrounded by an array of presents, the torn wrapping paper and delicate ribbons creating a vibrant mess on the floor.

His expression adjusted as he spotted the last of his gifts, which he noted was peculiarly shaped. It was a small, innocuous-looking box, adorned with cheerful holiday patterns. His anticipation heightened as he rapidly peeled back the wrapping paper with his small hands, revealing a shiny, plastic toy. His blue eyes widened with delight.

Holding the free end of the string, he let gravity cause the two disks that were connected by an axel to move downward, and an unexpected cacophony erupted. Shrill wails filled the living room, piercing the festive atmosphere and catching everyone by surprise.

Nova groaned, eyeing up both of her parents as Melody covered her ears. "Why did you have to get him a Screaming Yo-yo?"

"Don't look at me," a very pregnant Hadleigh answered, her hand resting on her large baby bump. "This was your father's doing."

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAHH!"

Thrilled by the surprise, the boy continued swinging the yo-yo with glee, blissfully unaware of the uproar it was causing.

Featured Characters:
Hadleigh Paton (Kolyander)
Melody Paton (SilverTiger)
Nova Paton (FearlessLeader19)

21. Snowman

Knock, knock, knock-knock-knock.

"Loggy!"

The rhythmic knocking echoed through Logan's room, disrupting his solitude. The blond, wrapped in a cosy blanket, remained as quiet as a mouse despite the urge to groan loudly at the sudden disturbance.

"Open up, Loggy! I know you's is in there!"

More insistent knocking followed, the sound seeming to infiltrate every corner of the room. Each rap on the door chipped away at the boy’s peaceful cocoon.

"What do you want, Bry?"

"Do you wants to build a snowman?"

Logan sighed, his initial annoyance softening at the simplicity of the request. The idea of venturing into the winter wonderland with her tugged at his reluctant heart.

"It ... it doesn't have to be a snowman," her voice softened, a hint of persuasion seeping through the door.

Silence lingered as he considered his options, none of which would bode well for him in the end if he did anything but go outside.

"Okay. Fine. But we're going to make a snow-dragon," he muttered as he abandoned the warm blanket and opened the door. On the other side, he found his little sister beaming from ear to ear, her eyes glistening with the promise of snowy adventures.

Featured Characters:
Bryony Paton (Kolyander)

22. Coal

In the warm glow of the fireplace on Christmas Eve, the Paton family gathered to partake in their beloved tradition of opening stockings. All six of them sat on the living room floor, each adorned in matching festive pajamas, anticipation twinkling in their eyes.

One by one, they delved into their different coloured stockings, unraveling surprises with joyous exclamations. Nova uncovered a glittering necklace, the delicate chain catching the flickering firelight. Melody's eyes lit up as she discovered a set of replica furniture, which would be a fine addition to her snake's enclosure. Bryony pulled out a stuffed unicorn with a delighted squeal, embracing her newfound plush companion that had started whinnying.

However, Logan's luck seemed to take an unexpected turn. From his stocking, he retrieved a black lump of coal — surely a jest from his parents as he had been exceptionally good the past month. The perplexed expression planted on his face, however, did not match the amused faces of the others.

Bryony seized the moment with a triumphant grin. "See! Dat's what you get for not playing withs me enough!"

Her jab echoed through the room, laughter intertwining with the crackle of the fireplace. Logan rolled his eyes.

Featured Characters:
Bryony Paton (Kolyander)
Melody Paton (SilverTiger)
Nova Paton (FearlessLeader19)

23. Decorate

"GET YOUR FILTHY HANDS OFF OF MY PORTRAIT, YOU HEATHENS!"

Despite the vehement protest echoing from Elizabeth Burke, Logan and Vera found an unexpected thrill in their spur-of-the-moment idea to decorate the usually stern and dignified image.

"There, there, Ginger. No need to be such a Scrooge," Logan retorted with a cheeky smirk, sticking more shimmery tinsel onto the canvas with Spellotape. The crimson and gold created a curtain that left the redheaded figure with an obscured view.

"You should be thanking us, you know," Vera chimed in, scattering the last bit of garland around the golden frame before picking up a box of leftover ornaments. "You're going to look so festive and everyone will —"

"And what are we up to here, hmm?" came the voice of one Dhruv Khanna unexpectedly. The duo froze.

"Just getting into the holiday spirit, sir." The blond sported his most innocent face as the adult's eyes shifted between the two, a raised brow reflecting apparent skepticism.

After nonverbally silencing the portrait, who had spouted out a myriad of insults, the professor examined the teenagers' handiwork while suppressing a grin. Giving an approving nod, they turned away and muttered, "Ten points to Gryffindor. Carry on."

Featured Characters:
Dhruv Khanna (FearlessLeader19)
Vera Thanatos (Chelliephone)

24. Ice Skating

The winter's crisp air greeted Logan and his father at the frozen pond, where laughter mingled with the soft sounds of skates gliding across the ice. Frankie knelt beside his son, lacing up Logan's small, uncertain feet into the ice skates.

"Just take it slow. You'll get the hang of it," Frankie encouraged, his warm smile reassuring.

The young boy, a mixture of excitement and nervousness, clutched onto his father's hand, his grip tight as they glided onto the ice. Tentative steps turned into hesitant glides, the reflective surface beneath them seeming both thrilling and treacherous.

Frankie's guidance provided a sense of security, but the icy dance proved challenging for Logan once he no longer had a hand to hold onto. With each misstep, Logan found himself falling, the cold surface offering a sting on his behind.

"Whoa, it's okay, buddy. Just shake it off," Frankie chuckled, helping his son up again.

"But I keep falling!" Logan protested, his frustration evident.

Frankie ruffled his mini-me's hair. "That's part of learning, Logan. Everyone falls when they're starting out. Soon enough, you'll be gliding like a pro."

Logan took a deep breath, determined to master the skill of ice skating. "Alright. Again."

25. Ugly Sweater

Logan, Vasco, and Vera gathered with enthusiasm to decorate Christmas sweaters. Armed with an array of glitzy baubles, sparkly sequins, and vibrant ribbons, they set out to craft the most eye-catching garments.

Vasco meticulously arranged sequins in symmetrical patterns, while Vera adorned her sweater with playful motifs. Logan, however, took a different approach. With unmatched zeal, he liberally glued on every material in sight, creating a chaotic tapestry of colours and textures.

Examining each other's work, it was his creation that undoubtedly attracted attention — not because of its elegance, but for its eccentricity. His sweater was a kaleidoscope of clashing colours, a riot of mismatched decorations, and an overwhelming amalgamation of glitter and bells.

The twins exchanged amused glances, attempting to not burst into laughter. Nevertheless, they couldn't help but tease their friend.

"You've certainly outdone yourself with having the 'most unique' sweater," Vasco commented.

"Well, I did want it to stand out," the blond declared, looking at the ugly sweater with unabashed pride, not minding its unconventional appearance.

"You should put it on," Vera encouraged. "It's definitely something only a troll would wear."

Logan smirked. "That was what I was going for, considering this is my gift to you."

Featured Characters:
Vasco Thanatos (Kolyander)
Vera Thanatos (Chelliephone)