The Gaunt Legacy - Prequel

POV Ominis

When the sun started to set, we apparated into the great hall of my so called home. I only think of it as the place where I grew up, nothing more. The Gaunt Mansion. It’s so big you could easily get lost if you don’t know your way around.
« Let’s get this over with » I told Sebastian exasperated.
He followed my lead into the Grand Foyer as I set the collar of my shirt right before Mother got furious.
As the servant opened the door, we made a noticable entrence.
« Ahh, there he is, my dear son » said Mother with a fake enthousiasm.
She awlays called me that in front of important guest.
I put on a fake smile to avoid conflict.
« And his … friend …. » she said sounding faker than a niffler turning away from gold.
« My dear minister, you remember Ominis, my second son ? » she said theatrically.
« Of course. I haven’t see you in quite some time, M.Gaunt. It’s nice to see you again » said the minister.
M.Spavin was actually very kind. I didn’t mind him. Besides, I will be working closely to him someday, when I become an auror worthy of the name.
« Lovely to see you again, Minister » I replied politely as I shook his hand.
« This is my friend and my duelling partner, Sebastian Sallow » I presented.
« Oh, how nice of you to join us » replied M.Spavin enthousiastically.
«  It’s an honour, Minister » said Sebastian trying to sound casuall.
« So, Ominis, I heard you were studying to become an auror. Good on you. It’s a noble profession » said the Minister cheerfully.
I’m glad someone thinks that in this room.
« Yes, it’s my first year at Naunington school » I stated.
«  I knew you would make it in. You’re a smart boy, I mean … man » corrected the Minister.
He has known me since I was a toddler, so I guess you could say he knew me pretty well.
« My friend also goes to Naunington school. In fact, he will be my futur partner if all goes well » I said merrily.
« Ah, I see. We like to have new recruits that work well as a team. Oh, and by the way, congratulations » he said content.
What does he mean by congratulations ? For what ?
« If you’ll excuse us, Minister, my dear son and I have a lot to catch up on » she said once more dramatically.
« Of course, Mistress Gaunt » he bowed his head slighty out of resect for the hostess and took his leave.
«  Follow me » she whispered completely changing her tone. She was now ordering me around.
So I followed her in the corner, leaving Sebastian there.
Now that we were far enough from prying ears, she was herself again.
« You’re such a disgraceful son. You don’t even reply to my letters ! You nearly missed the banquet ! Thank Merlin I send Bing ! » she said agitated.
« Yeah, I know » I replied as I rolled up my eyes. I was so used to hearing this.
« Now, why has the entire family gathered ? And why are the Malfoys here ? Why is it in my honour ? » I urged fearful.
« Ominis, I am counting on you to be the pride of our family tonight. I hope you won’t disappoint us again » she stated.
«  Just tell me what’s going on Mother » I gew impatient.
« Well, now that you are of age, it’s time for you, as the family traditions demands it, to find yourself a wife » she said blissfull.
I was taken aback by her words. If I had a drink, I would have spat it out in disbelief.
« Mother, no ! » I exclaimed alarmed.
In my family, arranged marriages was a rite of passage once you were 18. Only then were you a pure Gaunt. And of course Gaunts marry Gaunts. I know she has long waited for me to be of age to marry my cousin Metis. She was my favourite aunt’s daughter, but they were nothing alike. Noctua was kind, generous, and we shared the same point of views, unlike the rest of our family. But Metis is … a piece of work, she was vilainous.
« Calm yourself. I know you were not keen on Cousin Metis. See ? I do listen. So, we decided to marry you to Lady Destiny Malfoy instead therefore allying two powerful families ! Surprise !! » she said exited as ever.
I was just flabbergast. Not only was I supposed to marry my cousin at first, now they want me to marry Destiny ! That evil gargoyle. I don’t know which is worse !
And I’m sure my family is just thrilled to get rid of me by selling me to the Malfoys ! I was fuming.
« No. I won’t marry her ! She’s an evil little cockroach ! » I said furiously.
« Oh how nice of you to compliment her. See ? You like her already !» she opined.
« Mother, please don’t do that. I don’t want to get married. At least let me decide on a woman of my choosing » I pleaded.
«  What so you can marry that filthy little mudblood you’re dating ? » she said cruelly.
How could she possibly know about Valerian ? We’re not even … I don’t know what we are but … Ahh I hate them !
« Over a dead gargoyle’s body. Not a chance. Have you no shame ? We’re pure bloods. We don’t mix with worthless mudblood breed. It will pollute our lineage » she said ruthlessly.
« No, I won’t marry her, nor cousin Metis, nor any girl you just throw at me » I said in defiance.
«  Well now, that’s no way to talk to Mother » said the deep voice.
Oh merlin have mercy. Not him.
« Poor worthless Ominis. Having to take a delightful rose for a wife, how devastating » said my brother mocking me.
« Destiny’s more like thornes. And why are you even here ? » I said bitterly.
« Don’t you remember ? I told you mother had a surprise for you, and I’d be there to see your face. And I must say, it was worth the wait » he content.
« I won’t be bullied into marriage ! » I sharply said.
« Mother went to great lengths to make this happen. You’re so ungreatful as usual. She tried to please you by canceling the arrangement to Metis.You should be thanking her » said boldly Marvolo.
They were so infuriating !
« And you will sit by her side tonight, talk to her and you will enjoy it ! She is a perfect match for you » she insisted.
I was about to reply when I heard heavy footsteps. Father.
« Why is this taking so long ? You’re fiancé awaits » with a very sharp monotone voice.
My father was the head of the Gaunt dynasty. No one dared mess with him. If something was asked of him, it would be executed immediately. Even the minister feared him. He was very tall, and was extremely clever. Finding people’s weaknessess was his ultimate skill, which would come in handy to manipulate others. For as long as I can remember, his shadow was still, his calmness was fearfull though. Because this was just a facade. He was ruthless. No. You do not displease Father of you will pay heavy concequences.
« He’s being difficult as usual » said Mother resenfully.
I was grining my teeth. Anger was escalating.
« Ominis, you WILL listen to your mother. She knows what’s best for you and this family. Your mother was kind enough to find you a new match as you wished. Do NOT disappoint her » said Father authoritative.
I could feel a burning in my chest as I was breathing heavily.
« Marvolo, make sure your brother falls back in line » he said unemotional before stepping away.
I knew he was smiling and deep down laughing like a hyena.
« Yes Father » he replied all too satisfied.
Here comes the threats and manipulation.
« Oh, my dear brother »   he said failling to sound empathic putting his arm around me.
« You will do as you’re told. If you don’t, well let’s say that filthy girlfriend of yours might accidently learn who you really are, and what you’ve done » he threatened serenely.
« You have nothing to hold against me » I exclaimed sharply.
« I beg to differ, boy. I wonder what your girlfriend will say when she finds out that you used dark magic to torture muggle boys the same way she was tortured as a child »
I remained silent. I always resented myself for what I had done. And if Valerian were to learn about what I did, she would probably despise me. And that thought terrified me.
« And in case that’s not enough, I know things about your little friend over there » he added happily looking towards Sebastian.
I could feel my body freeze and my heart stop.
« Like for example how you didn’t turn him in for using the killing curse. Migh, migh. Naughty boy. I should be proud of you really. He has a bad influence on you. Maybe he’ll make a true Gaunt out of you after all » he said maliciously.
I was mortified. How did he find out ? We were only 3 to know. And Sebastian and me are the remaining two. That’s impossible !
« If you dare refuse this marriage proposal, well you will end up friendless and without a girlfriend » he threatened.
« Go to hell Marvolo » I retorted angrily.
« Oh but you’re already in hell, I’ll make sure of it » he replied challengingly.
I could feel rage and fear in my entire body. I wanted to … destroy them at that point. But I also needed to protect my best friend. And I didn’t want Valerian to resent me because … I loved her.
« We’re doing this for your own good Ominis » informed Mother condescendant.
« No. You’re doing this for YOUR own good. Don’t pretend otherwise » I said bitterly.
« Enough. Your fiancé awaits » replied Mother brutally.
« Try to sound appealing though this might be hard for you » said Marvolo viciously.
I gave him a dark look in his direction.
Mother pulled me before I had the time to calm down. She was now pushing me towards Destiny. Before she let go of me, she whispered in my ear.
« Remember what’s at stake Ominis » she threatened one last time.
« Ah, there he is, the fiancé » said M.Malfoy.
« Our appologies. Since Ominis has started in this school, we barely see him. We were just catching up » blasted Mother.
« I’m sure » said Mrs Malfoy joyfully.
«  Ominis, you remember the delightful Lady Destiny » she said calmly.
« How could I forget » I answered sarcastically still pissed.
My mother hit me with her elbow. I could just imagin her feeling embarassed.
« It is an honour to have been invited tonight. I wish to express my deepest gratitude to you lovely Mother and yourself » said Destiny gracefully.
I hadn’t seen Destiny since we were 14. She definitely hasn’t changed. She seduces everyone into believing that she is a well educated obedient daughter when really she’s a lying manipulative cockroach. I was told once she had white hair, and a scar on her left cheek. And I’m sure she dresses the part. And she is older than I am.
I could feel my mother hitting me with her elbow once more.
I just gave her a fake smile.
« We are delighted to see our lovely daughter engaged to M.Gaunt » said Mrs Malfoy proudly.
Oh I’m sure she is. In marrying their daughter to a Gaunt, they will have access to more privileges, a better social status, a powerful name to hide behind.
« So you don’t mind my blindness then » I hounded teasing.
« Why would we ? You were born afflicted and it is not of your choosing. I’m sure you are a very independent young man » Destiny declared.
Merlin she was good. I was now feeling fustrated. How could I get out of there ? Of this ?
« You’re a lucky man Ominis. I know you can’t see her, which is a shame really. She is delightful » said Marvolo not helping.
I couldn’t care less what she looked like. I’m blind. What difference will it make ?
« If you’ll excuse me, I’ll make sure my friend is comfortable » I informed trying to get the hell out of there.
« Why don’t I come with you my dear fiancé » she inquiered.
I let out a sigh of disbelief.
She stepped by my side, taking my arm. Of course I had to oblige as I could feel Mother staring. And I saddly couldn’t refuse.
« Shall we ? » she said.
I didn’t even bother answering as I moved towards Sebastian, her stuck to my arm like a leech.
« What the hell Destiny ?! » I reprimanded.
We were now standing by Sebastian.
« I remember you, you’re Ominis’ puppy » she said disgracefully.
« A, a Malfoy I’m guessing » said Sebastian playfully.
« Unfortunately ! » I replied in despair.
« Hey, I’m no happier about this arragement than you are. I would have rather married your brother, at least he’s a true Gaunt. But alas, I’ll have to make due with second rate » she said wickedly.
« Eat slugs Malfoy ! I’m also stuck with you » I replied still mad.
« What’s going on ? » asked Sebastian.
« My family is trying to marrying me off to that slimeball » I retorted.
« Excuse me ? Marry ? And more, marry HER ? » said Sebastian in shock.
« I thought Gaunts married Gaunts ? » he remarked.
«And so we thought. Looks like his family don’t even want him to remain a Gaunt.» she replied sharply.
« I’d rather be a Gaunt than a Malfoy » I alleged.
« Can’t you just refuse me ? And then you’ll never have to hear from me again I swear » she begged.
« I’d like nothing more. Unfortunatelly … I … can’t » I said agitated.
« Why not ? » asked Sebastian.
I couldn’t tell him why. Not with her around. But I was wondering if I should tell him anyway. He’s been through enough lately. And this will be one more burden on his shoulders. I know he’ll feel guilty. And he might do something reckless.
So I didn’t reply.
I knew Sebastian would understand why.
« Ugh, you are just so useless » she added accusingly.

The rest of the evening was dreadful and dull. I had to listen to her talk nonsense to everyone. My uncle on my father’s side told us Destiny was too good for me. My paternal aunt said she was surprised anyone would want to marry me. One of my grandfathers admitted he was relieved to know I was finally doing something right for once in my life.
Oh and of course my dear cousin Metis was over the moon as she wouldn’t have to marry the family’s looser. So many kind words tonight.
Sebastian tried to pull me away here and there disgusted by their behaviour, but Mother would always come back for me, or Marvolo who wouldn’t even give me a minute to breathe.
But this time, Sebastian and I used the desillution charm to escape. We were now heading for my old room. We entered discretely and closed the door behind us.
« Merlin you’re family’s ruthless » said Sebastian horrified.
I let out an irritated moan.
« I hate them. No. I don’t just hate them, I despise them ! » I said exasperated and furious.
« No wonder. They’re dreadful, especially your brother , actually I’m not sure which one is worse » he admitted astouned.
« What am I going to do ! » I exclaimed feeling my anxiety growing.
« It’s obvious, you’re not marrying that filthy rat ! » he replied appaled.
« Shht, I hear something » I cautioned whispering.
« What do you hear ? » he replied also whispering.
« Voices. People talking … Come, let’s have a look » I added.
« Aaa sneaking around are we ? Well I’m always up for that ! A new secret spying missin for the Sebminis team ! » he said giggling.
I smiled.
We once more used the desilution charm. We opened the door discretely and tip-toed down the corridor. It was Father and Marvolo.
We stoppped and listened.
« I am counting on you to make sure he does » said my Father bossy.
« With the threats I just pulled, he will. He is so pathetically weak. Calling him my brother repulses me » growled Marvolo.
They were talking about me. Just to be fair, having him as a brother aslo replused me.
« May I remind you what is at stake, if Ominis doesn’t marry Lady Destiny, then we won’t have the Malfoy’s support. And their support I’m afraid is essencial in order to achieve our goal. That filthy scurvy braggart. He managed to blackmail ME  » he scolded.
What goal ? What were they up to now ? Nothing good as usual.
« I can’t believe you will allow the Malfoys enter our family’s heritage » explaimed Marvolo in disgust.
« I’m afraid it was his condition, if alliance there will be, then it would be through mariage. But I didn’t specify which Gaunt she would marry. » said Father atrociously.
And they both laughed. It was an evil laugh.
I knew Mother and Father didn’t arranged our marriage with Destiny out of the goodness of their heart. There’s always a motive. And Father’s was to forge an alliance with the Malfoys, but why ? He despises them. He must need something of them.
« Bing ! » eclaimed father.
We heard a CRACK.
« Yes Master ? » he said politely out of fear.
« Tell the order that everything is now ready. Everything is falling into place for the prophecy to be accomplished. Arrange the next meeting with the Order Bing. And remember, no one must know. » proclaimed Father.
« Yes Master» he replied.
And we heard another CRACK.
« Father, we should probably head back to the banquet, people might notice our leave, especially the Malfoys » he cautionned.
« You’re right. Let’s go down » he suggested peacefully.
« What the hell is all this about ? An order ? A prophecy ? » asked Sebastian.
« I don’t know, we’ll talk about it later, we need to go down before they do, or else they will find it suspecious » I cautionned.
Sebastian and I hurried back down stairs before they did.
All this was quite disturbing. I heard the door open, Father and Marvolo were back from their little chat.

We then moved on to the dinning room. Mother made sure I sat next to Destiny. Sebastian was to my right side. Thank Merlin I had someone to talk to. But in truth, I didn’t say much. My thoughts were about how I ended up in this situation. Was I really going to let myself marry that awful woman in order to please my family ? No. It wasn’t to please them, it was to protect Sebastian. Only one word was necessary from my family to send him to Azkaban. And Valerian.
My thoughts now drifted to her. What was I going to do ? She and I were now … so close. I didn’t want to let her go. I finally found someone who could see the world as I do, who understood me, who I loved deeply. But what if she found out about the muggle boys ? Could she ever forgive me ? Or would she see me as a dark wizard ? As a monster ? The though of being a monster to her eyes shattered my heart. I could feel myself overwhelmed by anxiety, by anger, and was overcome by irrational thoughts.
I could feel Sebastian’s hand on my shoulder as he tapped twice on it.
« Don’t worry, we’ll find a way to break off that engagement. I promisse » he said trying to ease my pain. But in vain. I couldn’t see anyway around this. For now. I just needed more time to figure out what to do. That’s it.
« And when will the wedding take place ? » asked the Minister.
« Well, we were thinking ... » started Mother.
« … that it remains unsure for the time being » I finished before Mother could aggrave the situation.
« Of course. After all, you just got engaged » replied the Minister.
« But the sooner, the better, isn’t that right brother ? » said Marvolo confident.
I thought the NEVER the better. So I didn’t reply.
Marvolo was probably eager for us to get married to concord their alliance as soon as possible. Though what for ?

When dinner was finally over, we went to the drawing room for a last drink. I refused to drink after my last hangover. Besides, I needed my mind sharp in case Mother or Father would drop another bombshell on me.

The guests were now leaving. Mother insisted I gave a proper goodbye to Destiny, so I reluctantly kissed her hand. They then dissapeared.
We were now in the great hall with Father, Mother, Marvolo and Sebastian.
« You see, it wasn’t that hard to be nice to her » said Mother condescending.
« You didn’t give me much of a choice » I said audatiously.
«  Ominis, we are giving you the opportunity to make us proud. For once in your life, will you make us proud, son ? » asked Father emotionally manipulating me.
I sighed cynicly.
I needed to buy some time to figure out what to do, and to discover what Father and Marvolo were up to as it was related to this marriage.
« I just found out tonight that you were marrying me off. To a Malfoy ! Give me a little time to digest the news » I lied trying buying some time.
« Ominis ... » started Sebastian as I interrupted him with my hand.
« If you had read Mothers letters you would have known sooner » bragged Marvolo.
« Don’t you have a wife to go home to ? » I replied hateful.
My mother then stepped foward and slapped me in the face. I heard Sebastian budge, standing by my side now.
«  Do not speak to your brother in that improper manner » she justified.
Marvolo just laughed, enjoying this display. I was accustomed of being slapped by Mother. So it didn’t come as a surprise. And that’s far from the worst she could do to me. She would usually use Crutio on me, or Sectusempra, leaving me to bleed for hours until she would come back to heal my injuries with a spell because she couldn’t let me die. People would ask questions . And there are a lot more spells she liked to use on me.
«  My dear, let’s give him some time, but only a short one to concider his options. I know he will make the right choice » he said peacefully very sure of himself.
Father knew my love for my friends was my biggest weakness. That I would do anything for them. And he exploited that, blackmailing me into making the right desision from his point of view. And the reason he gave me some time was because he was sure I would accept. He knew I would never let Sebastian go to Azkaban.
« Let’s head back Ominis » Sebastian said full of resentment.
« Yeah » I agreed bitterly.
I took a step back to apparate, not even saying goodbye to my family.