**Chapter 8: A Quiet Moment**

The Hogwarts library was a place of solace for many students, a refuge from the chaos of the castle's corridors and the demands of academic life. Fred Weasley, usually a whirlwind of energy and mischief, had sought out the library's quiet sanctuary, hoping to escape the prank wars that had been dominating his thoughts. As he browsed through the shelves, his eyes scanned the titles, searching for something that would capture his attention. Maria Underwood, the new transfer student from Ilvermorny, sat at a nearby table, her nose buried in a thick tome on Advanced Potion-Making. Fred had noticed her earlier, and his curiosity had been piqued. He found himself drawn to her quiet confidence, her green eyes sparkling with intelligence as she read. Without thinking, Fred wandered over to Maria's table, his footsteps quiet on the library's soft carpet. "Mind if I join you?" he asked, nodding towards the empty chair across from her. Maria looked up, a hint of surprise on her face, but then a warm smile spread across her features. "Not at all," she said, closing her book. "I'm Maria." Fred sat down, feeling a sense of ease wash over him. "Fred Weasley," he replied, extending his hand. As they shook hands, Fred felt a spark of electricity run through his body. He quickly released her hand, trying to play it cool, but he couldn't shake the feeling that there was something special about Maria. The two of them sat in comfortable silence for a moment, before Maria spoke up. "What brings you to the library?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. Fred shrugged. "Just trying to get away from the prank wars, I suppose. I'm getting a bit tired of George's antics." Maria laughed. "I can understand that. I've seen some of the pranks from afar. They're certainly... creative." Fred grinned. "That's one way to put it. But I'm more of a theory person, myself. I love getting lost in books on magical theory and history." Maria's eyes lit up. "Me too! I've been reading a lot about the International Warlock Convention of 1289. Have you come across it?" Fred's eyes widened in surprise. "Actually, I have! I've been meaning to read more about it, but I haven't had the chance yet." The two of them launched into a lively discussion about the Convention, debating the merits of different interpretations and sharing their own insights. As they talked, Fred felt a sense of connection with Maria that he hadn't experienced before. It was as if they were speaking the same language, their words flowing easily and naturally. The library's silence was punctuated only by the occasional rustle of pages or the soft scratch of quills on parchment. Fred and Maria talked for hours, lost in their own little world of magical theory and history. It was a quiet moment, one that Fred would treasure for a long time to come. As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the library, Fred glanced at his watch. "I'm so sorry, Maria, but I didn't realize how late it was. I should probably get going." Maria smiled, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "It's okay, I think I've got a few more hours of reading to do. But it was great talking to you, Fred." Fred grinned, feeling a sense of excitement. "Likewise, Maria. Maybe I'll see you around?" As he walked out of the library, Fred couldn't help but feel a sense of hope. Maybe, just maybe, he had found someone special in Maria Underwood. And as he disappeared into the castle's corridors, he couldn't wait to see what the future held for them.