Back to Hogwarts
POV Ominis
I sent an owl to my family, telling them I would visit them in two days time with my answer. We spent the last fews days enjoying our time together with Valerian, and Sebastian as well as studying as I hadn’t done much of it yet.
But now was the moment of truth. I apparated to Gaunt manor, ready to face my family.
Bing let me in, leading me to the boudoir where my parents were. We had to walk quite a bit as the manor was huge. I could smell that familiar odour, Mother’s perfume. It was always such a strong smell. I never liked it.
« Master Gaunt, Mistress Gaunt, you have a visitor » said Bing stoick.
I could see a few shadows in the room, but couldn’t identify them all as most of hem were red.
« Aa, so you came » said Mother challengingly.
« Why ? Did you think I would turn your conciderate offer down ? » I said sarcastically.
« That’s no way to talk to your mother Ominis » said Father calmly.
I didn’t even bother replying. There was no point starting a fight. That’s not why I was here for.
« Good day to you Ominis » expressed a female voice politely. Destiny … Of course she would be there, and the Malfoys to make sure I would accept.
« Good day to you M.Gaunt » said her parents at once.
I just gave them a fake smile. I was surprised to see my Brother wasn’t there, proudly witnessing my misery.
« So, have you made up your mind ? » urged Mother.
« I have. And I will accept your offer » I replied serenely.
I could hear the Malfoys rejoice, or her parents at least.
« But I have conditions » I added with a more serious voice.
I could hear the room fall silent.
« I hope you can excuse my son. He can be so arrogent sometimes » she said superficially trying to justify my behaviour.
I just stood there, my arms crossed with a determined face.
The room was silent once more.
« Well, let’s hear what he has to say » challenged M.Malfoy.
I was surprised my father had not interveene yet. He was probably expecting me to put up a fight of some sort.
« Condition number one. I will marry Lady Malfoy by the end of my school year, and not a moment before as I wish to focus on my studies for now » I charged.
I could hear them whispering, clearly unhappy.
« Why ? What’s the point ? You can study and get married surely » said Mother holding back her threats as the Malfoys were here.
« A wedding will only distract me from my goal, and that is to become an auror » I insisted.
« Your priority should be your future wife. She is more important than your studies ! » she stated angrily.
« I need to study to get a descent job » I retorted calmly.
« We could get you a job easily at the ministry. There’ s really no need for you to go through school » she added her anger escalating.
I walked with confidance and determined past Father who was sitting down in his armchair right up to Mother, stopping right in front of her. Her shadow was now smaller than I was. But her size didn’t make her less threatening. So I was now looking down at her, my face intransigent.
« I WILL finish my studies, I WILL become an auror, and I WILL not let myself be distracted by my wedding. Take it or leave it » I said roughly.
I could hear my mother and the Malfoys sigh in shock at my cheek.
« My appologies, M.Malfoy. I’m afraid our son can be pretty stubborn » said Father unsincerely.
« M.Gaunt, how can we be sure you won’t change your mind ? That you will keep your word ? » urged M.Malfoy.
« I guess I could give you my word » I replied serenely.
« I’m afraid that won’t be enough. You are asking us to wait months and you expect we’ll take your word for it ? » he stated in disbelief.
I just looked passive.
« Of course not M.Malfoy. You have every right to doubt. If my son is sencere, I’m sure he’ll agree to hold up his engagment by making an unbreakable vow with your daughter, right now » suggested Father tauting me.
Here we go. So predictable. I knew he would suggest it. Fortunately, I had anticipated his move and now was one step ahead of him. But I still had to make it look convincing or else Mother will know I’ve got a card up my sleeve. So I put my poker face on, trying to look startled by his proposition.
« Yes, I guess we would agree to his terms if he will accept ours » professed M.Malfoy.
« He will » blurted Mother.
I then looked in her direction with a sharp look to look convincing.
« Good. Then we all agree... » started M.Malfoy.
« My second condition will be to ask for your discretion. I do not wish to announce our engagment and make it a public affair » I interrupted him harshly.
I had no regards for their feelings what so ever.
« Why ? What would it change for you ? » asked Mother suspicious.
« You know how I hate the extra-attention Mother. And the last thing I need is people asking me questions about my wedding while I’m focusing on my studies » I lied.
« Is that all you have in mind ?! » asked Mother furious.
I approched my face close to hers.
« For now yes » I answered cheekily.
I knew I would get the scolding of a lifetime after this was over. But I couldn’t help myself. I was growing tired of trying to be a good son when I knew in the end it would only bring me more misery.
« Are these all your conditions ? » asked Father sounding too serene.
« They are » I replied calmly.
« M.Malfoy, I’m sure you could agree to that if Ominis makes his vows through the spell right here and now » he said strategically.
M.Malfoy thought about Father’s proposition.
« If M.Gaunt agrees to make the unbreakable vow, we shall agree to his conditions » he expressed firmly.
I tried to look ennoyed so Mother wouldn’t feel suspicious.
Mother looked in my direction, awaiting for me to give the right answer.
I paused, trying to make them think I was thinking about it.
I couldn’t just agree too easily to his demand of it would look odd to Mother’s eyes.
So I asked for a moment alone with my parents.
« Why don’t you take a seat, we’ll be back before you know it » she said melodramatically.
Father stood up and followed us in the great hall. His posture was as usual grand and fierce. He closed the door behing him. He then swiftly took out his wand and cast diffindo on me, causing me to take a few steps back as my head was propelled to one side. His action was so sudden I was startled, but not surprised. I could feel liquid running down my face. I was probably bleeding. I could feel the pain rushing through my cheek as I tried to wipe to blood off my face. But it just kept pouring. The cut must be deep.
« You’re lucky the Malfoys are just next door or I would have cast a far worse spell on you » stated Father angrily.
« How dare you embarass us like this ? Who do you think you are to impose such conditions on an honorable house ? » exclaimed Mother.
« I won’t do the unbreakable vow » I shouted making it look convincing.
I knew if I rebelled, they would threaten me again, and that’s when I’d accept to do it.
« You shall be do as you’re told ! Or else your friend will end up in Azkaban thanks to you. Don’t think for a second we’ll let you renounce to your engagment with Lady Malfoy for that rechid mudblood you’ve taken a interest in. I hope that’s not why you’re delaying your own wedding ! Because you won’t get out of this ! » she said despitefully.
« You will do the unbreakable vow unless you want her to find out who you truly are. I doubt she’ll still love you after she learns that you tortured her breed ! » added Father malevolently.
« I don’t even know what she sees in you, hell I don’t even know why you bother with a filthy mudblood. Have we taught you nothing ?! » shouted Mother furious.
How I loathed them. Even more since I had met Valerian’s parents and had I better idea of what parents should be like. I could feel my anger escalating and I was now panting loudly.
« Don’t think for a second you can defy us boy ! Or you’ll loose everything you hold dear » threatened Father.
« Fortunately for us, so few people care about him » said Mother harshly to Father.
« Clearly you don’t or we wouldn’t be having this conversation. Fortunately for me, I don’t give a damn about what you think anymore » I replied more impertinent than ever.
I could feel my heart race to my own words. Never had I talked back to my parents in that manner. But it was about time I stood up for myself, like Anne wanted me to.
Mother took out her wand, but so did I as I cast Expelliarmus before she got the chance to torture me, disarming her.
Father also took out his wand and cast Sectusempra but fortunately I used Protego before the spell hit me. He was now furious and cast Impero. Protego was useless against a forbidden curse. He ordered me to let go of my wand and to neal before him, so I did as I was under his spell. I was still concious and I had no control over my movements. It was the first time I was under the Impero spell. It was frighting. He then approached me very slowly, and with every step he took, I could feel my heart beat harder in my chest. I was afraid. My body was trembling, I could feel my blood pumping through my veins as the adrenaline in my body was rushing through my body.
« Poor worthless child, you thought you could defy US ? » he started with a bitterful voice.
He then took my chin in his hand firmly, raising my head so I would look into his direction.
« Look at yourself, you’re so weak you disgust me ! No wonder Lady Malfoy can’t love you. Your owe us respect and loyalty for giving birth to you , for raising you, sheltering and feeding you. And how do you repay us ? By being such an ungrateful child ! And your poor mother that has to put up with your insubordination. Why can’t you be more like Marvolo ? » he said despisingly letting go harshly of my face.
I could feel a tear running down my cheek. I was stuck, I couldn’t move. I had no choice but to listen to his hurtful words.
« Even if I were more like him, you would have despised me anyway » I blurted my voice trembling.
He then turned around. And just stood there in front of me.
« You’re probably right. You’ll never be as good as him. You’re too frivolous, hopeless and egoisticall. You don’t even deserve to bear the Gaunt name. All you do is bring shame on this family » he said accusingly.
I looked down enraged. I was used to hearing these words, that’s not why I was furious. I was mad because I let him demolish me, I couldn’t retaliate and was made to listen. Because I wasn’t strong enough to stand up to him. But his hurtful words helped me look convincing though.
« You WILL make the unbreakable vow with Lady Malfoy and yo WILL marry her. End of discussion » finished Father.
« This is your chance to prove you’re not as worthless as we believe you are, your chance to prove to us that you can make this family proud » added Mother with a soft voice, trying to convince me she’s a good mother.
She knew that’s what I had been waiting to hear my entire life. She used these words to convince me, but probably didn’t even mean it. That’s what was so sad about it. I had been waiting my whole life for them to acknowledge me. But things were different now. I could see them for what they truely were thanks to my friends and Valerian’s love. And their words were now meaningless. Something had changed in my heart, I no longer needed their acknowlegment nor their love. I now had all the love I needed.
I thought I had made it convincing enough now. They had fell for my scheem. So I just nodded my head, remaining speechless.
« Good. I’m glad we all agree. Now, you will get back in there and make your vows to Lady Malfoy without any more cheek » declared Mother.
I feared the terms they would use for the vows. I was hoping I had preticted their intentions well enough.
Father set me free of his spell still unable to look at me.
« Can I at least heal my face ? » I demanded coldly.
« No. You asked for it, you only have yourself to blame » replied Mother strictly.
They were trying to shame me in front of the Malfoys. How I hated them, all of them. I found comfort in knowing that one day, they’d be out of my life for good.
Father entered the boudoir first, followed by Mother. They let the door open so I would come in. My face was still bleeding, the blood had mixed with the water of my tears. I was probably a mess. Unfortunately there was nothing I could do right now.
I entered the room. Father was talking to M.Malfoy.
I closed the door behind me.
« You’ll excuse our son for his rudeness. He needed to be taught another lesson. He just never listens to us » said Mother trying to justify herself to the Malfoys.
« Kids. They always think they know better » replied Mrs.Malfoy on her high horses.
I just rolled my eyes in exasperation.
I could hear Destiny chuckle sarcastically. She was just such a double faced evil cockroach.
« Ominis, Lady Malfoy, please come forth as you shall take your vows as I, Erebus Gaunt, head of the Gaunt family will bare witness » he declared.
I remained quiet, just executing his orders, blood still running down my cheek and now probably all over my clothes. Destiny’s shadow was advancing too.
« Grab eachother’s wrists » ordered Father.
I could see everyone approching to see better. I let Destiny held out her arm first, to show that I was reluctant to the idea, then grabbed her wrist.
The same string of lights flowed around our wrists. I was feeling nervous. I hoped our strategy would work.
« Ominis, you shall vow to marry Lady Destiny Malfoy by the end of your school year, not a moment longer. You shall remain loyal to her and you will fulfil your duty by uniting and honnouring both our families by taking her as your wife for the rest of your life » narrated Father.
I growled in disgust before taking my vows.
« I Ominis Gaunt, vow to marry Lady Destiny Malfoy by the end of my school year, not a moment longer. I shall remain loyal to her and will fulfil my duty therefore uniting and honnouring both our families by taking her as my wife for the rest of my life » I repeated unenthousiastically and with a monotone voice.
The lights then disappeared.
Clearly they wouldn’t make Destiny take her vows.
« You may let go of her Ominis » said Father satisfied.
I immediately let go of Destiny as if she were the most repulsive thing I had ever touched.
« Well, this causes for a celebration ! » declared Mother thrilled.
I was hoping my plan had worked, that my first vows would cancell the second.
After all these frightful events, I had no intention of staying there in their dreadful compagny.
« I’m afraid I must leave. I have work to do » I said angrily trying to find an excuse.
« I’m sure it can wait. You should celebrate with your fiancé » stated Mother insisting.
Hearing this word made my heart jump. That cockroach was now my fiancé. But a fake fiancé I reminded myself as this was a fake engagment and my real fiancé was waiting for me at home.
« I SAID I had work to do. You’ll have to excuse me Lady Destiny, M and Mrs Malfoy » I said politely but truely cursing her name and her family’s in my head.
« It’s alright. Clearly he has better things to do. I shall see you soon my dear fiancé » she said with a fake voice.
The later the better I thought. How I hated to hear her calling me that. There was no way in hell she was my fiancé. I know she was just putting on an act. She was as furious as I was about that situation. But she was clearly better at hidding it.
« Goodbye Lady Malfoy, M. and Mrs Malfoy » I said politely.
« Goodbye M.Gaunt » they replied.
I didn’t even say goodbye to my own parents.
And I vanished as soon as I could, apparating back to Felcroft.
I appeared into the living room, relieved to be back.
I heard footsteps approaching me. They were swift and light. It was Valerian.
« You’re back ! Sebastian ! He’s back ! » she exclaimed thankful.
I turned around to see her shadow. Her voice soothed my pain and helped me relax.
I could see Valerian’s shadow coming closer and Sebastian’s coming out of the kitchen.
« You’re back ! » exclaimed Sebastian.
« What happened to your face Ominis ? » shouted Sebastian worried rushing towards me.
« What ? What happened ? What’s wrong with his face » said Valerian fearfully as she couldn’t see.
« He’s … injured » said Sebastian alarmed.
I just looked down, looking sorrowful. I didn’t have the words to express hat had happened.
« It’s just a small cut » I replied reassuring her.
Valerian wrapped her arms around my neck, pulling my face down gently to her crook of her neck, caressing my hair gently.
« It’s ok. Your home now » she murmured to my ear.
I pulled my arms around her, hugging her so tightly resting my face in her neck. Her presence helped me deal with the pain I could feel in my heart.
Sebastian rested his hand on my shoulder as a symbol of compassion.
They both knew I had been tortured by my own family.
Valerian then let go of me, her hand wondering aroud my injury.
« Did they do this to you ? » she asked repulsed bu the thought of my own family hurting me.
I chose to not answer as I knew admitting I had let them hurt me again would enraged me.
« Let’s get you cleaned up » she said affectionately.
She took my hand and pulled me into the kitchen. Sebastian followed us too. She asked me gently to sit down on a chair as she grabbed a cloth and poured water over it to make it damp. By her brutal movements, I could tell she was angry. But not at me of course, at my family, for hurting me.
She then came back to my side with the cloth in her hands. But she put it on the table.
She first cast the healing spell episkey to heal my wound. I could now feel the pain go away and the bleeding stop.
She then used the cloth to wipe the blood off my face. Her movements were soft and delicate. I loved how she wanted to take care of me. It’s a feeling I only felt once before, with Mrs. Sallow. I hurt myself playing with Anne and Sebastian in the garden. I had fallen over a pumpkin as I couldn’t see it playing with Sebastian and Anne and had broken my nose. I remember crying a lot. She took me inside with her, she cast the same spell to heal me and also used a cloth to wipe the bleeding off my nose. She said kind words to me with her soft voice as I was still crying, making me feel safe. I had never forgotten that moment. It was the first time I felt truely safe with an adult. At this moment I understood not all mothers wanted to hurt their children, some genuinely cared for them, loved them and I had wished in my mind that she were my real mother.
And Valerian caring for me in the same way made me feel safe once more. At that moment I knew she would be like Mrs Sallow, a great mother and the most amazing wife. Not that ever doubted it. But it still meant a great deal to me.
I grabbed her hand softly stopping her movements, kissing it and holding it to my face.
« I’m ok don’t worry. » I told her lovingly.
« Oh Ominis, what did they do to you ? » she said almost in tears.
I could feel she was upset.
I wasn’t sure I should tell her all the details as she would be even more upset.
« Just the usual » I replied calmly.
I always felt serene around her.
She let out a sigh of anger as she continued wipping my face.
« So what happened ? Did they make you do the unbreakable vow ? » urged Sebastian worried.
« They did, as I preticted » I replied to Sebastian looking at his green shadow.
« But I had to make it look convincing or Mother would have found it suspicious» I added now looking at Valerian’s light green shadow trying to soothe her worries.
« That doesn’t give them the right to hurt you » murmured Valerian so discretely I almost didn’t hear her.
If Valerian had come with me today, she would have given my parents a serious wacking. But in the end they are just too powerful. They would have hurt her, tortured her. So I was glad she stayed here with Sebastian.
I could hear in her voice she was still quite upset.
So I grabbed her face and kissed her sweetly.
« Ominis, I won’t let them hurt you again » she said determined.
I stroke her cheeks so soothe her.
« Don’t worry, they’ll be out of our lives for good soon enough. And they won’t be able to hurt me anymore » I assured her.
She then kissed me on my lips fervently.
« So why did they hurt you this time ? » asked Sebastian interrupting our kiss.
« Because I tried to stand up for myself » I replied gently.
« These bastards ... » blurted Sebastian angrily.
« Sebastian ! Don’t curse in front of a Lady ! » I pleaded.
« No, he’s right. There is no better word to descibe your family. And don’t be afraid to use rude words in my presence when it comes to them » she said frankly.
Sebastian rejoiced to her words. I was mizmerised by her strengh. She always found new ways to surprise me. And it made me fall in love with her all over again.
Valerian wipped off the rest of the blood. Sebastian advised me to get changed as I had blood on my shirt and suggested the same to Valerian as I had probably stained her top with my blood.
So I got up and thanked Valreian for her care, kissing her cheek. I headed to my room and took my shirt off looking for another.
I heard Valerian follow me into the bedroom. She didn’t close the door completely.
« Are you sure you’re Ok Ominis ? » she asked worried.
« Yes, I’ll be fine. Besides, I’m with you so how could anything be wrong ? » I said sweetly grabbing another shirt in the wardrobe.
« You don’t have to play tough in order to protect me you know. You can tell me the truth » she said delicactely.
I started puting my shirt on, not quite finished as I marched to her, grabbing her by the sides of her arms gently.
« I know. And I won’t lie to you. It was … deadful. You know my parents aren’t the gentle kind. But for the first time in my life, I stood up to them. And it was all thanks to you. You give me the strength to fight for myself, for us. But I wont defeat them by using strength, but by using my wits. And I’ll make sure they can never hurt anyone again » I promissed.
She rested her hands on my bare chest, my shirt still open, feeling every inch of it.
« So that’s why you really came in here, to see me with no shirt on » I teased.
« Well, you’re MY fiancé so I guess it’s ok for me to do so » she said with a smile.
I see. She was jealous of the Malfoy cockraoch.
I wraped my arms around her waist and squeezed her swiftly against me so our faces were inches appart.
« I’m sorry to put you through this Valerian. You deserve better. But you know you’re my one and only true love » I murmured to her.
I heard her sigh in awe and she grabbed both her her hands around my neck and pulled me to her lips as we kissed fervently. My thirst for her was reflected in my lustful kiss. We hadn’t shared an intiment moment for days, not since the cricket game. And I could feel my body warming up as I deepend the kiss between us. I lifted her up against me and slammed her against the wall, her legs around my hips. She moaned to the action. I wanted her so badly. But her words kept going round in my mind, how afraid she was of going any further in our intimicy. So I stopped before I would lose myself to her.
« What’s wrong ? » she demanded sounding disappointed I had stopped.
« I … I don’t want … I don’t want you to think that I’m pushing you to … go further » I said apprehensively.
« Ominis, I ... » she started before she was interupted.
« Valerian, Ominis, come quickly ! » shouted Sebastian.
I quickly let go of her making sure she was safely resting on bother her feet and we both rushed to the living room where he was sitting.
« What is it ? » I urged worried.
« I have found it ! » he said joyfully.
« Found what ? » asked Valerian confused.
« The dark lord, in the register book ! » he exclaimed enthousiastically.
« Really ? » I said astonished.
« Yes ! And the reason we couldn’t find him is because that’s not his real name » declared Sebastian.
« So what is his real name ? » demanded Valerian.
« Let me see … Tom … Riddle. Does this name seem familiar to you Ominis ? » he inquired.
« No, I’ve never heard of him. Nor his surname » I replied clueless.
« Would that mean this Tom Riddle is the dark loard ? » asked Valerian trying to assemble the pieces of this puzzle.
« I guess. So the order is worshipping this Tom Riddle. And they are awaiting his arrival, that’s what they said » he reminded.
« But in order to know about the prophecy, my father had to see it through the orb, how else would he know about it ? » I continued in our logic.
« Maybe he knew ther person who made the prophecy, the seer. What’s his or her name ? » thought Valerian brilliantly.
« It’s … Percival Rackham ! » exclaimed Sebastian in disbelief.
« What ?! » I exclaimed my turn in shock.
« How is that possible ? » demanded Sebastian more than confused.
« Do you know him ? » demanded Valerian puzzled.
« Sort of. He was first a Hufflepuff student. But he appeared to have special abilities soon enough. He exelled in divination class. Sometime after he left Hogwarts and he returned as the school’s Divination professor. He had the potential so see the future as well as traces of ancient magic. He forged a small circle of trust with his fellow collegues known as the keepers. We know his portrait. It’s at Hogwarts » I explained.
« That would explain how he made the prophecy. If his portrait is at Hogwarts, it means we could interrograte him about it. That way we won’t have to touch the orb and go mad » she said cleverly.
We all reflected on her words.
« Sounds like a plan. Let’s do it ! » said Sebastian cheerfully.
« Ok. But we can’t just barge into Hogwarts uninvited ! » I alerted.
« Oh yeah ? Since when ? And you’re one to talk. You sheltered there when you were avoiding us not so long ago ! » he jested.
« Oh so that’s where you were then » commented Valerian.
« Come on, we’ve just made a huge discovery, let’s find our more ! Or have you got better things to do today ? » he insinuated as he probaly heard Valerian’s moans earlier.
I could feel my face turn red.
« Fine ! Let’s go then ! » I replied shamefully.
« Oh, you might want to cover yourself up a bit more Omonis » said Sebastian refering to my open shirt.
« Especially if we’re going to see Valerian’s work of art on your chest » he laughed.
What was he talking about ? Oh Merlin. He was refering to the love mark Valerian had made on my chest the other day. I could feel my cheeks scorching in embarassement.
« Let’s go ! » bllurted Valerian also feeling embarassed.
Sebastian was clearly enjoying himself embarassing us.
« Fortunately, most students will have gone home for the holdiays. So I’m sure it will be fine » observed Sebastian. « Everyone hold hands »
He stood up, and we all held eachother’s hands as Sebastian apparated us close to the Forbidden forest on Hogwarts’ grounds.
« Wow, the castle looks huge ! I’ve always wanted to see Hogwarts ! This is amazing ! » exclaimed Valerian now exited.
She was so cute when she was enthousiast. Of course she had never been to Hogwarts before.
« See ? It was worth the trip » joked Sebastian.
I just rolled my eyes.
« Come on, let’s get going » I suggested taking Valerian’s hand in mine.
We walked through the school grounds, heading inside. Valerian was loking everywhere, touching every wall with her free hand.
My body froze when I heard a familiar voice.
« You graduate from Hogwarts to pursue your dreams attending the school of your dreams, yet you just keep coming back. I hope you’re not after any trouble » exclaimed professor Weasley.
« Professor Weasley ! It’s good to see you ! » said Sebastian kindly.
« Professor Weasley ! » I also exclaimed.
« Hello M.Sallow and M.Gaunt. Hello to you to Mrs.Matthews. Welcome to Hogwarts » she said nicely.
« Thank you Professor. It’s an honour to be here » she replied in awe.
« Professor, we didn’t mean any harm. We were just ... » I started asking myself if we should tell her the truth or not.
« It’s ok. We can tell her. She’s always been loyal to us » stated Sebatian. And he was right. She had always helped us on personnal matters.
« So, are you going to tell me what you are up to ? » asked Professor Weasley.
« It’s kind of a long story. But it’s important. We need to see the portrait of Percival Rackham in the map chamber. Please » asked Sebastian politely.
The professor paused for a moment.
« Fine. But you will have to expalin yourselves » she inquired.
« Ok. We’ll explain on the way » agreed Sebastian.
We told her about the order, about the hall of prophecy, about the arrival of a dark lord and everything else.
« It is worrying in deed. But you are not aurors yet, don’t forget it. Don’t put yourselves in unecessary danger » she warned kindly.
« We know. And we are sort of working with an auror actually » I added.
« Professor, you’ll have to watch out for the muggleborns. We have good reasons to believe they will be in danger very soon if not now » cautionned Valerian.
« She’s right » I confirmed.
« Don’t worry. We will always protect all of our students. And Hogwarts is probably the safest place in the wizard world » she declared. « Look, here we are »
We went down the stairs. I let the ladies go first. Then we entered the Map chamber. But, all 4 portrait that were once there were gone.
« What ? They’re gone ! » shouted Sebastian in disbelief.
« How is this possible ? » exclaimed Professor Weasley perturbed.
« Someone is one step ahead of us. We can safely assume that only the order knows about the prophecy. They might be the ones behind this » I said.
I wouldn’t be surprised if my father was behind it all. But how did he find out about this place ? So very few people knew about the Map chamber.
« Yes, it would make sence. They wouldn’t want others to know about it, so they somehow stole the portraits so they wouldn’t talk » assumed Valerian.
« But how ? How did they know about this place ? How to find it ? » remarked Sebastian
« And how did they enter Hogwarts without us noticing ? » asked Mrs. Weasley troubled.
« No offence Professor, but we entered quite a few times since we graduated. So anyone could enter really » revealed Sebastian.
« I should reprimand you for your actions, you have no buisness here the both of you. But you should know that only a former or actual student can enter Hogwarts » confided Professor Weasley.
« That means not just anyone could enter. It would have to be someone that attended Hogwarts in the past » thought Valerian.
« Or the order could just have casted Impero and used a students to do his bidding » noted Sebastian
« Impossible. The spell would have to be cast off Hogwarts’ grounds. Then when the student would have gone through the magical barriar, the effects of Impero would have faded » explained the Professor.
« Interesting. So we have to go back to the theory of the former student then » declared Sebastian.
« Professor Weasley, can’t all professors go in and out of Hogwarts as they please ? » inquired Valerian ingeniously.
« Yes, but are you suggesting a professor is behind this yound lady ? » she said shocked.
« Yes, it could be a professor working for the order ! » continued Sebastian unbothered by Professor Weasley’s surprised reaction.
« Of course. Headmaster Black ! He is an advocate for pure blood heritage » I exclaimed.
« And we did assume that the house of Black were involed with the order as we know the Gaunts, the Malfoys and the Lestrange are » added Valerian, our minds working as one.
« Wait a minute. Headmaster Black works here. We have muggleborn students who attend Hogwarts. That doesn’t add up » said he professor confused.
« Maybe he never wanted them there » stated Sebastian instantly.
« Trust me, I know well enough Headmaster Black through my family’s parties and dinners. He hates them alright » I confessed.
« That doesn’t mean he is part of that … order. We mustn’t jump to conclusions » she cautionned.
« Maybe, but that’s the best explanation we’ve got so far. And who else knows better a school than its headmaster ? » implied Valerian.
Valerian let out a sigh of sudden realization.
« Actually, we have a way of finding out. Nathara did say that the members of the order had a tatto on their left arm, a snake wrapping a wand I believe » said Valerian intelligently.
« Yes ! You’re brilliant ! Professor, could you find out if Headmaster Black has a tatoo on his left arm for us ? » I perduaded.
« I… guess I can do that yes » she assented.
After a moment of silence, Sebastian spoke.
« So that may sort out our stealing problem, but we still have the prophecy mystery to illucidate » remarked Sebastian.
« If we could find the portrait, maybe we could finally get some answers » stated Valerian.
« There might be another way » interrupted Professor Weasley.
We all looked at her now.
« His descendant is here, at Hogwarts. He’s now in third year. Maybe you could talk to him, He is passionate about history, as well as many other subjects, and would be thrilled to meet you M.Gaunt as you are the heir to Salazar Slytherin » she told.
« Well, it’s worth the try. Can you introduce us to him Professor please ? » I asked.
« Fortunately he lives here most of the time. Let’s go and find him » she suggested.
We followed her around Hogwarts looking for him. It was strange walking through the corridors. At every turn I could smell familiar frangnances. I always thought Howarts smelt like a burning fireplace. And the memories of the years I’ve spent at Hogwarts were rushing back.
I could see Valerian’s shadow moving around as she was discovering the school.
Though we attendent Hogwarts for years, I still thought of it as a truely magical place in every way. So I can imagine for an outsider how exiting it must be.
« I should tell you this child is a pure prodigy. He showed exeptional intellect and skills to become one day a great leader » she confessed.
« Well, his ancestor was quite grand » declared Sebastian.
« But he promisses to be even grander » opined the Professor.
« Could you tell us more about him ? » I demanded curious.
« Well, he was sorted into Gryffindor. He was marked by a tragedy when his young sister was attacked by a group of muggle boys who saw her performing magic and were frightened by what they saw. I heard she was emotionally scarred by these events and her magical powers were left severely altered. That’s why she couldn’t attend Hogwarts with her brother. Their father went down a dark path and seeked revenge on the boys. He ended up in Azkaban a few years ago sentenced to death as he refused to expalin himself. A sad story really » narrated the professor.
« How terrible » expressed Valerian compassionately.
After a while, we found him in the library. The boy was sitting at a table. He was clearly doing some research as many books were opened on the table.
« Excuse me M.Dumbledore, may I take a moment of your time ? » inquired professor Weasley.
« Hello Professor. Of course » he replied politely.
His voice and manner of speaking suggested he was very mature for his age.
« This is Sebastian Sallow, Valerian Matthews and Ominis Gaunt. The boys are former students and have graduated last year. They would like to talk to you if you don’t mind » demanded the professor.
« I remember there was a Gaunt attending Hogwarts last year. So you must be a descendant of Salazar Slytherin ! » he said exited.
The professor was right. He seemed enthousiast.
« … yes. I am. I don’t believe we’ve met » I replied.
« We haven’t. But I know who you are. Everyone knew who you were » he said.
« I see. Would you mind if we asked you a few questions ? » I said gently.
« I’m all ears » he replied.
« Do you know much about your ancestor Percival Rackham ? » I demanded.
« Of course. He was one of Hogwarts’ headmasters. Did you know he was also a seer ? » he stated exitidely.
« Yes. That’s why we’re here. Do you know of any of his prophecies ? » I demanded kindly.
« I can imagin that when a seer prophecies he then has to place it somewhere. But I’m not sure how this works » he admitted.
« Well, when a seer sees a prophecy, it is stored into a magical orb and kept in a secret place at the ministry » I narrated as if I were telling him a story.
« Really ? That’s so amazing ! Do you know where that place is ? » he asked jovial.
« Maybe I do. But all secrets must be discovered in their own time » I said proud of my wise sentence.
« Ohh… that’s no fun » he replied disappointed.
We all laughed.
« So if I understand this correctly, you’re after his prophecies ? » he demanded.
« Only one in particuliar. And it’s very important. It could save lives you know » I explained relaxed.
« I see. Well there are many diaries from my ancestors in our new house. I guess you could borrow them » he expressed kindly.
« That would be very helpful young man. Thank you » I said gratefully.
« Professor, could we borrow young Albus for a little trip please ? We’ll be back before you know it » demanded Sebastian.
« I’ll … authorize it exeptionally. But I want him back before dawn ! » she ordered.
« You have my word professor » I promissed.
« Right. Where do you live kid ? » asked Sebastian.
« I’m not a kid. I’m a young man ! » he remarked.
Valerian and I laughed. Sebastian was clearly not a kids person.
« I now live in Godric’s Hollow with my mother and sister » he replied.
« I’ve never been there. How are we to apparate there ? » asked Sebastian.
« Easy enough. We take him back to Felcroft and use the portkey nearby your house to the village » stated Valerian cleverly.
« I see your the brains in this team » said Albus to Valerian seriously.
She laughed. Sebastian growled in disagreement.
« Right you are young man » I chuckled.
« Right. Let’s hold hands and go » said Sebastian pouting.
« We need to exit Hogwarts grounds so we can leave » I reminded Sebastian.
« Oh yeah right » he replied exasperated.
So we all walked near the forbidden forest, apparated to Felcroft, travelled with the portkey to Godric’s Hollow. We followed young Albus to his house. The village was very quiet. Sebastian had told us that everyone was staring meanly at us.
« Don’t worry about the neighbours, they just don’t like my family » explained Albus.
« Why is that ? » asked Valerian calmly.
« My mother rebuffed all of them. To protect my sister. She’s … ill you see » he explained sadly.
« I’m sorry to hear that » she replied gently.
« There’s my house » he told.
He welcomed us into his home and headed straight for the attick. We followed him there.
The house was of a descent size. But again so quiet. I wondered where his family was.
« Is no one home ? » asked Valerian concerned.
« My mother doesn’t like strangers. She and my sister are probably down in the cellar » he told detached.
That was a weird thing to say.
« We didn’t mean to impose » expressed Valerian feeling guilty.
Albus was opening some boxes looking for the diaries.
« That’s ok don’t worry. Here are the diaries you asked for. Classified by year they were written » he said giving them to Sebastian.
He took all of them and placed them in his pocket using the size changing spell.
« Do you or your family need any help ? » asked Valerian.
Valerian seemed concerned about this boy, I’m not sure why.
I was wondering why she would ask this.
« No, we are fine thanks » he said politely.
I could hear footsteps approching. It was a red shadow. Interesting colour. When a shadow was red, I assumed it meant that a person was potentially dangerous. Maybe I think that was because my family’s shadows are red.
« Albus, why did you bring strangers into our home ?! » said a woman angrily. It must be his mother.
« I’m sorry. We didn’t mean to intrude » excused Valerian.
« They aren’t strangers. They were Hogwarts students. Professor Weasley knows them well. And they needed my help » he replied very sure of himself.
He sounded more like an adult, but in a kids body.
« Where’s Ariana ? » asked Albus.
« I told you not to mention her name to strangers ! » she barked.
« Sorry Mother » he replied.
« Now leave. You have no buisness here » she ordered roughly before going back downstairs.
« We should head back before Professor Weasley turns us into a pocketwatch » declared Sebastian.
I could sence he had no desire to stay here any longer. I could undertand, there was something strange about Albus’ mother. I understand why Valerian was concerned.
« What ? Really ?! » exclaimed Albus.
« No. I’m just kidding ! » he joked.
« You’re not funny you know » said very seriously Albus.
Valerian and I both laughed. I liked that kid, I mean young man.
I could hear Sebastian annoyed.
« Thanks for your help Albus. We should go » I said before Sebastian would get all worked up.
We then repeated the whole process to get Albus back to Hogwarts.
When young Albus was safely back to school, we returned home to Felcroft.
« Something was off about this family » declared Valerian worried.
« You worry too much. His sister’s sick. She was traumatised by muggles. No wonder his mother’s afraid of stangers » said Sebastian objective.
« But we’re not muggles » said Valerian.
« Actually, you’re part muggle. Just saying ! » he said amusingly without jugment.
She just sighed annoyed.
I took her into my arms and kissed her head.
« I’m sure he’ll be ok » I whispered to her.
« It’s going to take me ages to go through all these diaries, as I’m the only one who can read » complained Sebastian.
He was right. And the faster we could get through them the faster we’d get some answers.
« Then let’s ask for help. Edmund and Cassandra would be glad to » declared Valerian.
« Aren’t they away for the holidays ? » interrogated Sebastian.
« They were. But they should be back now » she replied.
« Well you’re not going to go through all of these diaries alone. I agree to ask for help » I opined.
« What if they ask questions ? What are we to tell them this time ? That we’re looking for the mention of a prophecy. Could you help us without telling you the truth ? » impersonated Sebastian.
« You know, some people understand the meaning of secrecy and privacy. Trust me. We’ll tell them it’s important but can’t tell them just yet as it could jeopardise our goal. But they are friends and we know we can count on them to help us » professed Valerian.
Sebastian was thinking about her proposal.
« Fine. I’ll admit we need help. I’ll let you handle the explaining then » he agreed.
« Thank you » she said warmly.
« Oh and could you send an owl to Miss parkes for me ? Asking her to meet us here ? » I demanded.
« Here ? Why not go to the ministry ? » asked Sebastian.
« Because I’m too recongnisable and if Father or Marvolo see me coming back and forth to the ministry they will suspect I’m up to something » I explained.
« You’re probably right. I’ll send one now then » he replied.
« Why don’t I go back to school to ask for Edmund and Cassandra’s help for tomorrow ? » suggested Valerian.
« Would you like me to come with you ? » I asked.
« No, I’m ok thank you. Besides You’ve got a letter to write » she replied sweetly.
« … be careful Valerian. Promise me you’ll come straight back afterwards » I demanded worried.
« I’ll be fine. I’m only going to school. But I promise I’ll come straight back » she declared.
She kissed me and then disappeared which left me time to write to Miss Parkes, the auror with Sebastian’s help.