bookbashuk Chapter 128 An Invitation from France
Chapter 128 An Invitation from France
Chapter 128 An Invitation from France
For the next few days, Karen's life was immersed in a peaceful yet fulfilling rhythm. He helped his father thoroughly maintain the "Seagull," making the ship look brand new; he accompanied his mother to plant the magic seeds in the reserved space in the garden; and he continued to patiently guide Lily to recognize the budding power within her. Occasionally, when the little girl was completely absorbed in listening to stories, her teddy bear would make a slightly more noticeable bouncing motion, eliciting a delighted whisper from her: "Look! It moved! Like a little rabbit!"
Karen also kept in touch with his teachers and friends. He wrote to Professor Flitwick, asking some questions about spells and reporting that he had arrived home safely.
She then wrote to Wesley, Fabian, and Ernesto. Wesley excitedly described his newly purchased Quidditch poster and his experience watching a professional league match live. Fabian shared his visit to the Natural History Museum in London and asked some questions about the classification of magical plants. Ernesto's letter was the most concise, mainly mentioning his trip with his father to the Scottish Highlands for stargazing, where the night sky was perfect, and inquiring whether Karen had gone to France. Karen replied to each letter carefully.
Her most important correspondents were Nicolas Flamel and Professor Castor, who were far away in France. Karen provided a detailed account of her safe arrival home.
He recounted the family's recent situation, Lily's magical awakening, and expressed his continued concern for Professor Castor's health. He also mentioned the unusual rose and his father's notes, asking if Nico had witnessed anything similar or had any insights.
Nico's replies were always full of wisdom and gentleness. He congratulated the Cullen family on their reunion, expressed his delight at Lily's awakening of magic, and advised Cullen to guide her patiently without forcing it. Regarding Rose's unusual behavior, Nico replied that "in this vast world, life has its own mysteries, and magic often favors those with resilient souls. Observe the changes quietly, and you may be able to glimpse a corner of the laws of nature," without giving a clear explanation, but instead encouraging Cullen to continue observing.
Regarding David's idea, Nico's reply carried a wise smile: "Muggle wisdom is always full of amazing flashes! Their exploration and utilization of the laws of physics are sometimes so ingenious that even the oldest alchemical formulas have to take notice. Concepts like 'non-Newtonian fluid' and 'stable energy field' themselves contain a profound understanding of the laws governing the world. Perhaps, from a magical perspective, we can provide a completely new and complementary interpretive dimension? Your father's thinking is truly admirable."
Regarding Castor's health, Nico's reply was cautious yet optimistic: "Casto's condition is stable, thanks to the environment of the 'Quiet Abode' and some of our attempts. He needs rest, but his spirits are good, and he often inquires about your progress in studying and thinking. He looks forward to your arrival."
Professor Castor's reply was much shorter, his handwriting still carrying a cold, hard strength: "I'm glad to know you're safe. Focus on your own work and don't be lazy. As for the rose, just keep good records and observe; there's no need to delve into anything else. The Muggle's ideas have merit, but their concept of 'field' is different from the essence of magic. You can refer to their ideas about 'energy conversion' and 'control'."
I'm fine. Think things through and act cautiously. I'm waiting for you.
These communications reassured Karen and filled him with anticipation for his upcoming study trip to France.
It was a sunny afternoon. Karen was in his study organizing his class notes and experimental sketches from "Eagle's Nest" about the magical resonance of moonshine moss, trying to use pure physical and chemical symbols to label and analogize the nodes and frequencies of the magical flow. Lily, on the other hand, was lying on the carpet, whispering stories to her beloved teddy bear, trying to relax and be happy.
Suddenly, a rapid and powerful flapping sound came from outside the window, accompanied by a few familiar, slightly low chirps.
"Phobos!" Lily was the first to jump up and run to the window.
Karen looked up. There hovered outside the window, its paws clutching something much heavier than a normal letter. It looked travel-worn, but full of energy.
Karen quickly opened the window. Phobos glided in gracefully, precisely placing what it had in its claws on Karen's desk. Then, it proudly puffed out its chest and let out a short chirp, as if announcing the successful completion of its mission. It shook its feathers, flew to its perch, and began to preen.
"Thank you for your hard work, Phobos." Karen patted its head and handed it a small piece of its favorite jerky. The snow raven happily took it.
His gaze fell on the desk. It was a rectangular, exceptionally elegant envelope. It wasn't ordinary parchment, but a pale gold paper that exuded a faint sandalwood scent and was incredibly tough yet supple. The edges of the envelope were inlaid with genuine, hair-thin gold thread.
The envelope itself exudes an aura of antiquity, nobility, and powerful magic.
"Wow! What a beautiful letter!" Lily leaned closer, her big eyes filled with amazement, her little hands wanting to touch it but not daring to touch the gold trim.
"Who sent this, Karen?" Emily came in when she heard the noise. She was surprised to see the envelope. Her fingertips instinctively reached out to touch the delicate sealing wax, but then she stopped. David also came over when he heard the noise.
Karen was puzzled because he recognized the sealing wax mark; it was Nico's mark. But why was it suddenly being handled so solemnly? After glancing at the contents, Karen immediately understood the reason. He then took a deep breath and began to read the contents clearly to his family:
To our esteemed Mr. and Mrs. Hawthorne, and lovely Miss Lily:
Good day!
I apologize for the intrusion. I am Nicolas Flamel, one of Karen's mentors in her alchemy studies. First, please allow me to extend my sincerest greetings! Karen often mentions her warm family and beautiful seaside home in her letters. I am deeply gratified to hear that Karen has returned home safely and is spending quality time with you.
Karen's talent and passion for alchemy are delightful. Castor also has high hopes for him. Taking advantage of this summer break, I sincerely invite Karen to once again visit our "Quiet Abode" in France for a more in-depth study. Castor is also recuperating here, hoping to reunite with his student.
However, this invitation was not extended to Karen alone.
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Hawthorne, we know that Cullen's growth and achievements are inseparable from your unconditional love and support. The magical world has opened its doors to him, but you—his strongest supporters—have rarely had the opportunity to personally experience the wonders he immerses in due to the barriers of that world. This is truly a regret.
Therefore, Perenelle (my wife) and I, with the sincerest hearts, cordially invite the entire Hawthorne family—Mr. David, Mrs. Emily, and our little princess Lily—to come to France! We eagerly anticipate hosting you at the "Quiet Abode," allowing Karen's most cherished family members to step into this world that fascinates him.
Please don't worry about safety and convenience! We have made comprehensive arrangements:
Firstly, regarding the itinerary, you will travel like any other tourist, flying normally from London to Paris. The specific flight and time can be arranged later, and we will fully accommodate your schedule. Upon arrival, a very reliable friend of ours will meet you at the airport. He is a gentle and trustworthy wizard familiar with Muggle affairs and will escort you directly and safely to the 'Quiet Abode'.
As for accommodation, "The Tranquil Abode" is located in a quiet and beautiful river valley near Paris, offering a peaceful environment and excellent facilities. For more details, you can ask Karen; he has already experienced it.
Upon your arrival, Perenel and I will personally guide you. You can visit our meticulously maintained gardens, where many interesting yet safe magical plants are grown, and learn about some of the history of alchemy. If time and interest permit, we can even arrange a visit to Beauxbatons School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, which Miss Lily would surely enjoy. Of course, Paris, a treasure city where ordinary people and magical history intertwine, is also worth exploring its non-magical side—the Louvre, the Seine, and the Eiffel Tower.
Finally, regarding the duration, we fully respect your schedule. It can be Karen's entire study period, or it can be about a week at your convenience for you to visit and experience the program, after which Karen can stay and study. Everything is based on your wishes and vacation time.
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Hawthorne, this invitation comes from the bottom of our hearts. We long to meet the family that has raised such an outstanding child as Karen, and to share in the beauty of our world, even if it is just the tip of the iceberg. This is not only for Karen's studies, but also to bridge the tiny gap between the two worlds that is most important in his life. Perenel, myself, and Castor eagerly await your arrival.
Enclosed with the letter are a few photos of the garden and valley scenery of "Tranquil Abode," as well as a gift certificate for a famous London dessert shop, as a token of my appreciation.
We look forward to hearing from you! Please feel free to contact us through Forbes if you have any questions or needs.
With my warmest wishes,
Below the letter from Nicolas Lemaître & Perenel Lemaître is their joint signature.
As Karen finished reading, word by word, the atmosphere in the room subtly changed.
David's mouth gaped slightly, his hand unconsciously clutching the accompanying photograph of a beautiful castle and garden. "The whole family going to France? Invited by Lemaître himself? Taking a plane? And a guide arranged?" He repeated the key words, his tone filled with disbelief and shock.
Emily clasped her hands together, clearly a little excited, as she looked at the photo of the valley. "My God—they're so thoughtful. 'Tranquil Abode' sounds so peaceful and beautiful, and they even thought to invite us."
Then she looked at Karen, her eyes welling up with tears. "I can feel how much they value you, Karen, and by extension, us." But then worry crept into her heart. "But Lily is still so young. Going so far away, to a foreign magical world, will she be able to adapt? Is the environment safe? Won't it be too much of a disturbance to the masters? And," she looked at her husband, "and David, your work..."
Lily's reaction was the most direct and enthusiastic. She understood the crucial information—the whole family was going to France! To see her brother's teacher! And maybe even visit a magic school!
"Yay!!!!" The little girl jumped up from the carpet and rushed to Karen's side, hugging his leg tightly. Her upturned face was flushed with excitement, and her eyes sparkled: "To France! With Karen! To see the magic castle! Beauxbatons!"
"I want to go! I want to go! Dad! Mom! Let's go together! Please! I promise I'll be good! I promise I won't get sick!" She started shaking Karen's legs vigorously, then turned to her parents, her big eyes blinking with a pleading look.
Startled by Lily's excited shouts, Phobos flapped its wings on the perch and cooed twice in dissatisfaction.
Karen quickly bent down to calm his sister, who was so excited she was practically twisting herself into a pretzel. He looked up at his parents, his face filled with a deep expectation and earnestness he himself didn't realize: "Dad, Mom, Nico and Perenel are very sincere and considerate people. Professor Castor is there too. Their arrangements are very thoughtful. Just like in the letter, we're going on a regular plane, and the guide will take care of everything when we get there. The accommodations are also very good; I stayed there for Easter before. This is truly a—very rare opportunity." He paused, looking into his mother's eyes, "And they genuinely want to get to know you and thank you."
David took a deep breath, glanced at his wife, then at his daughter who was clinging to Karen with tears in her eyes, and finally his gaze settled on the incredibly solemn invitation in his hand. The Lemaîtres' sincerity and arrangements made it difficult for him to refuse. The engineer finally scratched his head, a smile mixing helplessness, excitement, and determination on his face:
"Alright—it seems," he looked at Emily and made a decision, "we need to start researching French visas and travel guides for Paris. Lily, get off your brother's lap, we need to have a family meeting! Karen, you need to give us a good talk about what to be careful about when we get there, so your mother doesn't worry."
Lily instantly cheered and jumped for joy, her voice echoing throughout the room: "That's awesome! Long live Daddy! Long live Mommy! Long live Brother!"
"Let's go to France! Beauxbatons! Desserts!" She finally let go of Karen and jumped up and down excitedly.