Azkaban
POV Sebastian
I didn’t sleep very well last night as I drunk too much with Samuel.
We had a good time though, two single men in a bar. It was a nice change from hanging around all these couples.
I was reading the newspaper and having breakfast when Ominis came out of his room. He looked overjoyed. No wonder after what I heard last night.
« Hey » I said.
« Hello. Did you have fun last night ? » he demanded grabbing some coffee.
« Not as much as you clearly » I teased.
His face turned red.
« What do you mean ? » he said feeling embarassed.
I chuckled.
« Please. I heard you both going for it all night. Besides, there’s proof on your neck » I taunted.
As he sat down opposite me, his face got even redder.
« So ... ? » I asked waiting for the details.
« So what ? » he repeated.
« Come on, if I had to listen to you both all night, at least tell me you went all the way and it was not all for nothing » I exclaimed.
He smiled in confirmation looking in my direction.
« I knew it ! Finally ! » I shouted in exitement.
« Keep it down, Valerian’s still sleeping ! » he reminded.
« Ok sorry. So I guess she’s not mad with you anymore ? » I demanded.
« She was never mad mith me. But it’s painful for her to not have the freedom to talk about our engagment, not being able to tell her parents, to throw a party and even plan our wedding. So I’ve decied to ask her father for her hand next time I see him. And that’s what I wanted to talk to you about » he explained.
« Really ? I thought you wanted to settle things with your family first ? » I said astouned.
« Yes, but’s let’s face the truth, it could take months, or years. I don’t want my future wife to be unhappy. So I’m doing it. Besides, with everything going on, I keep thinking every day that I want to marry her sooner rather than later » he stated.
I remained silent thinking if he truly wanted this or if he just wanted to please Valerian.
« Is this really what you want ? To get married soon ? Or is it what you want to please your fiancé ? » I questioned very seriously.
He was my best friend, and his well-being was important to me.
« Sebastian, I want this. I am tired of waiting. I’m not saying we’re going to get married next week. But I want things to be settled for now. And that’s by asking her father for his daughter’s hand, and then eventually marry her » he confessed.
Hearing him say these words aloud made me feel guilty. He was postponing his proposal to Valerian’s father, his chance to get married and be happy all this for me, to protect me from is rechid family.
« I know what you’re thinking, but don’t. It’s not just about you anymore. It’s about protecting Valerian from my family too. They’ll never stop trying to ruin my life you know ? » he said wisely.
« You’re probably right. But you know you can’t have an open ceremony with Valerian ? If you’re going to marry her, it has to be contained to a minimum, and away from prying eyes » I admitted.
« I know. But I don’t care. So long as I marry her, and that you’re there. That’s all I need » he said with a smile.
His words went straight to my heart.
« What about Valerian ? What does she want ? » I asked.
« I’m not sure yet. I’ll discuss this with her. But first I need her father’s approval » he advocated.
« Good luck with that ! » I joked.
We both laughed.
« So, I thought you might help me on this impossible quest ? » he jested.
« Oh, how can I help ? » I replied playfully.
« Well, I was wondering if you’d be ok if we all celebrated Christmas here, together » he said delicately.
« By all you mean … ? »
« I mean both of us, Valerian and her parents » he detailed.
« Oh, well I don’t mind. It is your home too. But do you think they’d come ? I thought they hated magic ? » I remembered.
« That’s why I need your help. I will convince them to come, and I need you to write a letter for me, and I will give them my word it will be a magic free house during their stay » he explained.
I thought about his proposal. I never lived without magic. I didn’t even know what it meant, or how to do that !
« Ominis, I … am willing to make the effort, but I don’t know how to live without magic. Everything is magical in this house from he frying pan washing itself to the sofa ! » I said worried.
« It means don’t take your wand out. No magical objects flying. To mention of magic » he clarified.
I sighed.
I had no clue what I was getting myself into. But I couldn’t refuse. This was for Ominis’ sake. He sacrificed so much for me. So the least I could do was help him get his happy ending.
« Ok » I replied.
« Thanks. It means a lot to me » he professed.
« I know » I said with a smirk.
« I believe Miss Parkes will drop by today to help you master the legilimens spell ? » he asked.
« Yeah. She asked if you could be there. I need to practise on someone and I don’t think she’s volunteering » I confided.
« I guess it makes sence. She can’t reveal important details about her on-going cases » he noted.
I made a noise in agreement.
I helped myself to more bread and opened the newspaper.
I started reading the paper to Ominis without even thinking as an automatism :
What are the Minister’s intentions so save muggle-borns ?
The number of murders keep growing. Muggle-borns live in terror.
The Minister assures the ministry is working hard to find new solutions to keep them safe. But what does the ministry really know about the faceless monster ?
We have interviewed the minister himself in attempt to know more about the situation.
He insists the situation is under control. Every department at the ministry is working had to stop the faceless monster.
The only thing he can assure is that it attacks by night and steals muggle-born’s faces, unabling its victims to breathe or see before their death. But the monster’s attacks are unpredictable therefore impossible to stop in time. It doesn’t even leave a signature magical trace.
There have been 71 bodies discovered so far. Can the Minister truly find a solution ? Is the Minister in over his head ? Complaints just keep coming from muggle-borns accusing the Minister of not finding any proper solution to the problem and isn’t fully invested as he is a pure-blood himself.
Tension keeps rising. Aurors have been recruited to maintain order in the streets of every country. Are we heading for civil war ?
We have asked the Minister’s right hand, Erebus Gaunt what he thinks about the situation. He believes the faceless monster is purging the world of unworthy wizards and witches, who are not worthy of carrying a wand and use magic he declared. He believes the answer lays right in front of our faces : muggle-borns have to renounce their and and magic forever in order to be safe from the faceless monster as it has not attacked any muggles he reminded. If you wish for your parents, siblings, children to remain safe, then surrender your wand to the ministry. This is the only way he decreated. Is he mad or is he offering an actual plan to save muggle-borns ? His theory remains to be seen » I finished reading.
« You have got to be joking ! What game is my father playing ? » exclaimed Ominis bitterly.
« Yes it is strange. Because your father would rather see them dead rather than walk the earth » I remarked.
« That means he needs them, or using them to achieve a goal. But what ? » he observed.
« He is trying to discreditate the Minister, making him look like a fool while he is offering a solution to save what he despises most. He gets to control the faceless monster therefore choose who might live or die. He’s in search of power. Maybe even throw the Minister over » said Valerian.
When did she enter the room ?!
« I heard you reading the paper » she explained as if she could read my mind.
Ominis got up, marched to her and kissed her fervently.
I just rolled my eyes.
« So was that his aim all along ? First the order ? Then the ministry ? » I blurted.
They didn’t even bother to stop their kiss and whispered … whatever in eachother’s ear. They then looked in ly direction.
« But I thought he was preparing for the dar lord’s arrival. So why take power if the dark lord will ? » I added.
« Maybe he’s just keeping the seat warm until he does » suggested Valerian cleverly.
« Do you think people will believe that crap ?! » I exclaimed angrily.
« They will. People are desperate to save themselves or their own. There is nothing more frightful than ignorance in action » Said Ominis sincerely.
Smart words to describe this horryfing situation.
We then has breakfast all together.
Later Miss Parkes apparated in our living room.
« Good morning everyone » she shouted looking for us.
« We’re in the kitchen » I replied.
She then came in.
She looked different. Her was was a bit longer and was more of a natural colour now. It suited her.
« Good morning » we all said as one.
« Have you read the news? » she demanded.
« Unfortunately we have. Is it true? » asked Ominis.
« What is? » she demanded.
« What is said about my father? » he precised.
« I’m afraid it is » she declared.
We all remained silent. This was actually pretty scary. They had to be stopped ASAP.
« Ready for some training? » she asked.
« I am » I replied determined as ever.
« Is there somewhere more comfy we could train? » she questioned.
« Follow me » I replied.
We went in the living room, all of us.
« I’ve asked Ominis to be my training partner » I stated.
« I see. Actually, you’ll be training on me first. I’ll show you how closing your mind works » she revealed.
« Oh, ok » I said astounded.
« You sound surprised » she remarked.
« Well, yes. I thought you had too many thoughts to protect from your on-going cases » I
explained.
« That I do. But you won’t be getting into my mind today » she divuldged self confident.
« Now take out your wand and go for it » she ordered.
So I did. I cast the spell legilimens, waited for something to happen, but we all looked at
each other instead.
« Nothing is happening » I stated. « Did I do the spell wrong? »
« No. you just couldn’t get into my mind » she clarified.
« Interesting » said Valerian curious.
« How do you do that? Is it really by clearing your mind? » I demanded.
« It is. But it takes a lot of practice » she admitted.
« I need to check that you can cast it properly. So would you mind casting the spell on one of your friends ? » she asked.
I looked at Ominis silently.
« Fine. Get your wand ready » he said not sounding too enthousiastic.
To be frank I couldn’t blame him. Going back down memory lane is tiring. You’re not even sure which memory you’ll see.
He sat in front of me, switching places with Miss Parkes.
I cast the spell and my mind was suddenly transported into darkness. I had to focus on the frangnaces and sounds around me like Ominis does. I couldn’t even see shadows. Why was that ?
Did Ominis not have his wand in this memory ?
I focused on my other senses.
I could smell ginger. That must be Valerian.
I could hear … moans? They were both crying each other’s names and breathing loudly. I
was familiar with these sounds as I heard them all night. This was Ominis’ memory of last night !
Suddenly I was transported back brutally to reality.
« What the … » I started saying startled.
« Ok now we know he can cast the spell » declared Ominis in such a rush trying to change the subject. He knew what I saw because his faced was flushed.
« I was only there for a few seconds this time » I observed.
« Oh, that means Ominis shut you out. We’ll done ! » encouraged Miss Parkes.
I just chuckled. No wonder he managed that.
« I don’t know how you do it Ominis. I had to focus on my other senses like you told me » I confided.
« What do you mean? » asked Miss Parkes surprised.
« Because I’m in Ominis’ memory, I literally can’t see »I explained.
« Oh right ! I have never experienced this spell with a blind person. How amazing it must be ! What is it like? » she demanded over exited.
« I’d rather not say » I joked.
« He means he sees shadows like we do. And he has to rely on his sense of smell and
hearing » clarified Ominis.
« Well I can’t wait to tell my collegues about this ! » she said overjoyed.
Ominis must feel released I didn’t speak of what I saw, or rather what I heard.
« Miss Parkes, would you say the memory we see in someone’s head is what’s on their mind at tis moment ? » I demanded curious.
« It is. It can be a dreadful experience that haunts you or a happy memory you want to cherish » she detailed.
That explained a lot. I felt guilty about killing my uncle. That’s why I was seeing this event. And Ominis could only think about Valerian.
« Right. The next part I have to do alone with Sebastian » she directed.
« What? Why? » pried Ominis.
« I’m afraid I can’t say why. But I will teach him the forgetting charm » she just replied calmly.
How odd. Omiis looked perplex.
« That’s ok. I’ll see you later guys » I declared.
« Good luck » announced Valerian.
Miss Parkes held out her arm so I would take it. The next thing I knew we were in a dark
mouldy place. The walls were made of old stone, it was cold. I could hear waves crashing
against wherever we were.
« Where are we? » I asked confused.
« Azkaban » she replied serenely.
« Azkaban? What the hell are we doing here ? » I asserted.
« Training. Today I’m going to teach you the forgetting spell, obliviate » she replied.
I didn’t like the sound of that. I had this same awkward feeling I had when Professor
Radagor tought us the forbidden spells in class on a prisoner. Was I to do the same ? Train on what they called a volunteer?
Miss Parkes was talking to a guard, but I couldn’t make out what they were saying.
« Follow me » she commanded.
We walked through the prison. I could hear evil laughs, screams. Azkaban was creepy. For a moment I felt grateful towards Ominis and my sister. It’s thanks to them I’m not behind bars in this rachid place. Then my thoughts drifted to my uncle that I killed. I was no better than any person here.
I kept feeling guilty. This is the place where I should be, where a murderer like me
belongs. I just got lucky. But do I really deserve to be free? If I just turned myself in,
everyone’s life would be easier, or at least Ominis’. But I know he’d never forgive me, which was strange because he forgave me for killing my uncle and for abandoning him, but this, he wouldn’t forgive.
My mind was miles away and that’s when my heart skipped a beat, when I saw a creature floating, it looked like a ghost, but it’s drapes were a sort apocalyptic dark grey. I thought for a second it was the faceless monster. But it was a dementor. I knew they were the gatekeepers of this place, though seeing them in person was completely different. And at that moment I felt like all happiness was gone from this earth. I surprised myself by being so familiar with this feeling. I guess I only have myself to blame for that.
Miss Parkes called me from a room, that’s when I realised I had stopped marching.
I entered the place and found a prisoner sitting on a chair, his hands and feet were binded
by some sort of magical yellow glowing ring. The man was old. He had a messy long black beard and messy dark hair. He looked filthy and had dirt all over his face. His strippey prison uniform was torn here and there and looked worn out.
I wasn’t feeling at ease. It felt wrong.
« Sebastian, I want you to cast the spell on this man » she ordered.
« … Miss Parkes, I’m not feeling comfortable about this. What if I do it wrong? He could
forget up to his name ! » I blurted.
« That’s why we are training on this specific person. He’s a volunteer, an old man that is
reaching the end of his life. He used potion charms to seduce muggle women, then … did
horrible things to them » she sais with disgust.
She tried to spare me the details but I could easily guess what truly happened. That’s when I felt this sudden loathing and need for justice rise in me.
« How do I cast the spell? » I demanded with a determined voice.
« He had a cat named Max. I want you to make him forget he ever had a pet. Focus on the animal, a moment where he would pet it. But nothing else. Remember, focus, clear you mind. This isn’t about you. Then say obliviate » she instructed.
I raised my wand. The man looked straight into my eyes. All I could see was a evil man that needed to be punished, and I had the means to make it happen.
I cast the spell on him, focusing on my rage. A white light came out of my wand.
The man then blinked a few times and looked at us.
« Who are you? Why am I here? » asked the prisoner.
« What’s your name ? » demanded Miss Parkes.
« I … I … don’t know » replied the man.
Crap. I failed.
Miss Parkes called a guard and he took the prisoner away. I can’t say I felt sorry about what I did.
I looked at Miss Parkes who was observing me.
« What happened? » she asked peacefully.
« I … am not sure » I lied.
I knew what went wrong. I focused on the prisoner, on what he deserved and not the cat. I concentrated on my anger. But why did I feel so worked up about a person I didn’t even know?
« You sure looked pissed » stated Miss Parkes.
So I couldn’t even hide my own feelings.
Maybe when the man looked into my eyes, I saw myself in him. Maybe I was angry at me and not him. Maybe I was trying to punish myself through him. That thought left me feeling regretful of my past actions. I also felt a sense of relief for finally admitting what I was trying to forget for so long. That no matter what I do, or how many people I help, I will always be a murderer. And there was no escape.
The guard re-entered the room with another prisoner. This time, it was a female.
She had long ginger curls and looked like a mad women. She was pretty much in the same state as her predecesor. Were all prisoners that dirty ?
The guard made her sit down onto the chair. She had the same restricting rings around her wrists and her ankles.
« We’ll do things differently this time. I won’t tell you her back story. I want you to tell her something, a secret. Then you’ll make her forget this conversation ever happened » she ordered.
Tell her a secret ? Like what ? I couldn’t tell her my darkest secret. Not to an auror or I’ll be the one sitting there. What could I say ?
« I envy my friends’ happiness. Especially my best friend Ominis. He’ll get married, have a family of his own. He won’t need me anymore soon enough » I confessed.
I thought I was past all that. But I guess I was just fooling myself.
My heart acked to my own words. At last, the truth. I was finally honnest with myself after a long time of denial.
I inhaled deeply and rose my wand to the prisoner’s face. I focused on my rescent revelation, on the prisoner and that precise moment.
« Obliviate ! » I shouted.
That same white light came out of my wand, flashing at her.
She blinked a few times.
Did it work ?
She looked startled.
« Who are you ? » she asked.
« What did this gentleman just tell you ? » demanded Miss Parkes calmly.
« ... I … don’t know this person. I’ve never seen him before ! So how should I know ?! » she exclaimed arrogantly.
So it worked.
« See ? Don’t let yourself be blinded by your emotions M. Sallow. Focus. And you shall succed » she encouraged.
I was glad I successfuly managed my spell, but not by the way I did so.
I felt downcast after all these emotions, guilt over-powering all others.
« Come on, let’s get out of there » she suggested.
She grabbed my arm and apparated us into what looked like a pub. I knew this one. It was the leaky cauldron.
« Fancy a drink ? » she said trying to cheer me up , or to make up for the way she tought me that spell.
« Why not. I don’t really fancy going home » I replied morose.
We sat at a small table and ordered two drinks.
The pub was crowded and noisy. I guess it was expected as it was the week-end.
« Do you want to talk about it ? » she suggested.
« There’s not much to say » I admitted.
« I’m sorry you feel that way about your friends. It’s not easy to see others happy when your struggle finding your own » she retold.
« It’s … I shouldn’t feel that way. They are my friends and I’m happy for them. But I guess I feel lonely sometimes, especially since ... » I satrted a tear welling up my eye.
« I heard about your sister. I’m sorry. And about your Uncle too» she said kindly.
« Is that why you want to become an auror ? Because your uncle was one ? » she demanded curious.
That was not the reason why, no.
« No. Ominis and I have always wanted to be aurors. I hoped to help people like my parents did. They were not aurors, but they defended many causes, helpd many students when they were professors at Hogwarts. I guess they passed down the fighting spirit to me. Then when I met Ominis and his family, that’s when I decided I was going to becaume an auror to protect my best friend from them » I explained.
The bartender brought us our drinks. We raised our glasses and nodded our heads, then took a sip.
« Did you know my uncle ? » I asked.
« I hope you don’t think me that old ! No. He retired years ago. I believe I hadn’t even begun auror training » she precised.
I felt embarassed. I put my foot right in it !
« N-no ! I … I’m sorry. It’s just he had quite the reputation » I declared.
And a bad one too. He was known for his stubborness.
« Well being an auror can be quite lonely. And trust me, it’s for the best. No one can hurt you that way » she admitted.
« Is this what happened to you ? You were hurt ? » I questioned.
« No. But I know a few collegues who are constantly worried about their families, children or wife if ever a dark wizard uses them for blackmailing or revenge » she replied honnestly.
« Besides, I don’t need a man to make me feel like I’m valuable, or strong, or even loved. No one loves you better than yourself ! » she joked.
I didn’t reply to that because I didn’t love myself. Quite the opposite really. And I don’t think this will ever change. But she was right about aurors being worried for their families. That’s something I’d never have to go through since no one will ever love a murderer.
« But if you do feel that lonely, maybe I could cheer you up » she said with a seductive voice.
Was she flirting with me ?
« Isn’t that what your doing right now ? » I teased.
« Sometimes I get lonely too and I like to have compagny » she said suggestively.
She was definitely seducing me.
« I’m going upstairs to my room. If you want, you could join me. Or if you expect more from life, then I’ll see you tomorow for more training » she declared winking at me before she stood up and left.
Now that was totally unexpected ! What should I do ? Surely it was just innocent fun. She’s not looking for anything serious. Then again, so am I. If I am to remain single all my life, I might aswell enjoy the pleasures where I can find them. I knew this was not the reasonable choice to make. But I hadn’t felt a woman’s touch in so long. I shouldn’t be doing that. This isn’t the gentleman way. But she’s the one seducing me thus asking for it. After all, she was quite cute.
I sighed knowing perfectly what I SHOULD do, but will I ? Would I behave like a good man ? Or should I be more of a true slytherin like I once was ?
All this over-thinking was killing my head. Anne wanted me to live my life to the fullest. And that’s what I was going to do. I knew deep down I used her words as an excuse.
But I went up nonetheless. A door was half open. It must have been her room. I knocked gently at the door, not wanting to enter without her permision. I suddenly felt her arm grab me and pulled me roughly inside. She smashed me against the wall as she slammed the door, her face close to mine.
« So you came » she teased.
« Why, didn’t think I would ? » I replied playfully.
« I had my doubts » she said raising her eyebrow.
Though I had much experience with girls when I was younger, this was completely different. She was a woman, and a tough one. She was clearly in charge and probably had more experince than I did.
She lowered her hand down my chest and abdomen and went straight for my groin. She didn’t waist anytime. I was startled by her sudden choice of movement. She rubbed her hand against my shaft which was already hard to her touch as I moaned in pleasure. She pressed her lips along my neck, kissing it hard as she stopped rubbing me to open my white shirt seductively. She then looked at me, more like observed my chest, and seemed satisfied by the looks of it. Then, she unfastened my belt and undid the buttons as she set freed my manhood.All this was happening so fast and it was exiting me even more. I was panting in anticipation. It had been far too long since anyone had taken care of me down there. She placed her strong fingers on it and moved her hands upwards and downwards. I couldn’t help but gasp in delectation. My intimate part was now swollen and firm. I couldn’t help but lundge my head back against the wall, closing my eyes to the exitement. She repeated the motion sevreal times, but then stopped her movements which led me to groan in fustration. What game was she playing ?
« Would you like more ? » she wispered to my ear.
« Y-yes » I said breathing heavily.
« Yes what ? » she teased.
She was enjoying this far too much. She loved beholding power.
« Are yo expecting me to beg ? » I said playfully.
« I am » she taunted with a smile.
She rubbed it gently to remind me of the pleasure I was about to miss if I didn’t.
I first let out a loud sigh of extascy before begging her to continue.
She then kissed me down my chest going down to her knees, grabbed firmly my bulge and licked it. I felt a chill go though my entire body to her touch. This was … delightful.
She then slid my throbbing erected shaft into her mouth. And when she did, I felt her tongue slide against my member all the way down and I cried in elation. It was slippery, warm and tight. I placed my hand in her hair around her head as I pulled her against me so my member would penetrate her mout more deeply to her throat. She then moved back up and repeated the motion. With every movement the sensitivity increased. I was breathing wildly and my head was spinning. This was pure euphoria. She moved her head forward and backward, sucking me with such fervor.
« Oh, yes, please continue » I begged.
I didn’t care at that point if I looked weak because all I wanted was for her to keep going. I could feel her lips sucking the tip of my shaft as she went up and that was my weak spot. I felt a shivering sensation which started at my groin and spread along my spine. My body was so stimulated I had forgotten what it was like. My back was arching as she picked up the pace. I was now looking at her. She was enjoying this. But I couldn’t observe for too long as I could feel my legs shaky already as the tension was building up. I was getitng close to my release.
« I want to cum into your mouth » I ordered.
Of course she couldn’t reply as her lips were otherwise occupied. But she didn’t pull out. So I took that as a yes. I could feel my body tremble as she sucked harder on my manhood. I was about to cum. I was hoping it would last longer but I couldn’t hold it in anymore. The intensity was cranked up to a maximum. I could feel my heart pounding and my mind go blank as I pulled her hair instently and let out a final loud guttered sound as I ejaculated inside her beautiful mouth and hit carnal perfection. I could feel the pulse and the surges as it happened. This was pretty short, but intense.
I rested against the wall before I lost my balance, trying to catch my breath. I felt lightheaded now.
It looked like she swallowed all of my seeds because she wiped her mouth and stood back up with a seductive smile.
« I’ll see you tomorow, pretty boy » she said as she buttoned my shirt.
I was surprised she didn’t ask me to pleasure her in return. Why the sudden rush ?
« Didn’t you ant me to ... » I started.
She placed her index finger on my lips, quietly ordering me to remain silent.
« you can show me another time your … talents. For now, I have a case to get back to. And remember, no feelings permitted » she reminded calmly.
This was a clear invitation for more playful moments in the future. But that’s all they would be. She made her position very clear. And that suited me.
She smiled at me and exited the room closing the door behind her.
What a day it turned out to be ! I was glad I came up or I would have missed this delightful moment.
I chuckled to the thought.
I pulled my boxers back up and fastened my belt. My cheeks were still flushed but I felt this urge to just lie down and sleep. I knew as soon as I would get home, Ominis and Valerian would have many questions. Besides, Ominis needed my help to write the letter to Valerian’s parents. So I should probably go. I took he time to get over the adrenaline rush and sat down for a moment.
It was now the end of the afternoon. I apparated in my living room, calling for Ominis and Valerian, but got no reply. I heard their voices in the kitchen. They were probably cooking together as I could smell garlic. And so they were, amongst other things …
« Aaah ! » I shouted when I saw them both in action, Ominis’ back, topless thrusting hard into Valerian who was hidden by Ominis’ muscular large body. But I could see her legs around his hips moving.
Ominis and Valerian shouted taken aback.
I immediately turned around and left the room as I shook my head in disbelief.
« I haven’t seen a thing. Or not much. I’m going into my bedroom ! » I announced loud and clear.
I rushed to my room trying to take this image out of my head. Damn can’t they do their private matters in their bedroom ? Really ?
I just laid on my bed, exhausted.
I heard them laugh and renew their buisness. I was tired of hearing them. Did they never rest ? They could at least use the soud proofing charm !
I closed my eyes to rest before diner.
Later I heard a knocking at my door.
« May I come in ? » asked the voice. It was Ominis.
« Yeah » I replied.
He opened the door and closed it behind him.
« Sorry about earlier. I …, you … were not meant to see this. We got carried away » he explained embarassed his cheeks flushed.
« Look, I know you two are madly in love, and you’ve just experienced the bliss of sex, but please, can you at least go into the bedroom ? And use the soundproofing spell PLEASE ? » I demanded exasperated.
« I’m sorry. We will » he promised.
He came to sit by my side.
« So, how was your day ? » he asked.
« Why ?! What do you mean ?! » I spanicked.
Did he find out what I had been up to with Miss Parkes ?
Calm down Sebastian, of course he hasn’t.
« Nothing. I just wanted to know how your training went ? » said Ominis looking at me suspiciously.
« Oh. You’ll never believe where she took me » I stated feeling relieved.
« Where ? » he demanded curiously.
« To Azkaban » I announced.
« What ? That dreadful place ? Merlin ! » exclaimed Ominis mortified.
« Have … you ever ben there ? » I asked meticulously.
« I have … It was cold. I could hear the waves crashing onto the prison. Father took me there and left me in a cell with a mad man that kept screaming at me. He said it would man me up. I was 9. He had better things to do than to look after me he told. But the man was not what I was most afraid of. It was the dementors. At the time, I could only see its black shadow, like a ghost. And it was terrifying. It was like all happiness had left my body. It was such an intense and dreadful experience » he explained sorrowfuly.
Poor Ominis. His family was just the worst, not that I didn’t know that before.
One more reason to lock them up in Azkaban. They’d feel right at home there, where they belong. I thought this could add to the future charges that could be held against them. Creating an order and a monster to kill citizens were bad enough, but child abuse was another thing to add to their resume.
But I knew Ominis just wanted to get rid of them, and didn’t want to have to keep dragging procedures.
« That’s exactly how I felt. I nearly fainted when I saw a dementor. What awful creatures. I actually thought it was the faceless monster » I admitted.
« Do they look alike ? » he asked.
« They do. Maybe the order used the dementors as inspiration » I joked.
Ominis just made a sound in agreement.
« So, did you manage to cast the forgetting charm ? » he demanded.
Ominis was no fool. He knew why I was in Azkaban, and it was not for a nice walk down the park.
« Sort of. I failed the first time. But succeded the second » I said truthfuly.
« I see. Why did you fail the first time ? » he questioned genuinely.
« … because I let my emotions get the better of me » I said sincerely.
« What were these emotions you were feeling ? » he added.
Should I really tell him when he has better things to worry about ? His life was stressful enough as it was, and I didn’t want to add to more stress as he was having many panic attacks these days. But he was also my best friend.
« Talk to me, don’t try and spare me » he insisted.
I guess he just knew me too well.
« I … felt like … this is the place where I belonged. I know I have you and Anne to thank for it. But your life would be so much easier if I just turned myself in » I confessed my heart pounding in fear of what he might say.
« Sebastian, you DO NOT belong there. Your place is here, by our side, training to become one of the best aurors this world has been, after me of course » he joked.
I just gave him a fake smile. His words didn’t sooth me for once.
« I know you feel guilty. But you have to find the way to forgive yourself. I need you. I need you today, and tomorrow, and in many years to come. So does Valerian. She is thrilled to have a brother-in-law you know as she was an only child. She always wanted to have a big brother she told me. That’s a job for you. » he said emotionally.
I chuckled. The tought was sweet I’ll admit. And I did want to take upon that role seriously.
« I fell like, nothing that I do will be good enough to atone for my sins. But you wouldn’t understand that. You’re pure, and have never killed anyone before. You always make the right choices » I said sighing.
« Do I ? I wonder sometimes. If I had been stronger as a child, I wouldn’t be in this messy situation with my family » he confessed.
« You’re kidding right ? Ominis, you’ve endured their torture, their whims, carried their hatred on your shoulders for too long. You’ve survived all this, and you still manage to be happy. I think that makes you the strongest person I know » I revealed.
He smiled.
« Thanks » he said gratefully.
I thought I should keep my little adventure with Miss Parkes to myslef for now. After all, it didn’t mean anything. And I know Ominis would get in brother over-protective mode.
So I proposed to help him write his letter instead to the Matthews before diner.
We sat in the living room together, and he dictated his words I wrote down, and as usual, his letter was most eloquant. I then put the parchment into an enveloppe ready to be sent tomorrow while Ominis went to kiss Valerian.
When I entered the kitchen, Valerian served us our diner. Thank god she was there or I would let myself starve. It was so nice to share moments together like this. That kichen hadn’t been used properly since my mother died.
I noticed Valerian kept awkwardly silent during diner.
« Valerian, it everything alright ? » I asked concerned.
« … Of course. Why ? » she said sounding fake.
Ominis took his hand.
« What is it my love ? » he asked affectionately.
Since when did he call her that ? I guess they reached a new stage in their relationship, so it goes without saying it’s only natural.
But she refused to reply.
Now I was worried.
« You know you can tell us anything » I insisted.
She looked afraid. But of what ?
« I… I don’t want to … spoil this nice diner » she just replied.
« Valerian, if something’s wrong, please tell me » begged Ominis.
I didn’t know what was wrong, but Ominis was definitely not the one to blame. I was. She started acting weird since I had been around.
« Did I do smething wrong ? » I asked concerned.
Her eyes were watery.
« What happened Valerian ? Please tell me ! » I implored.
« I … heard you two speak. I’m sorry, I tried not to listen. But these walls are pretty thin » she blurted.
Too thin I thought. Wait a second, if she heard our conversation, then was she upset of my interaction with Miss Parkes ? Was she troubled by my behaviour ?
« Is this about Miss Parkes ? » I asked feeling embarassed.
« What ? No ! It’s not it. I … heard you say to Ominis that … you killed someone. And I think it was time you told me the truth. We are going to be one family soon and I need to know what happened » she said frankly.
And it was her right to ask such a thing. But I was afraid as I knew she would despise me after this. I would lose her forever. I didn’t want to see this same look in her eyes, the one Anne gave me a long time ago.
My eyes were swollen and wet as my heart was racing.
Ominis looked just as bad. But he didn’t intervene. He knew it was up to me. He did however nod in aproval in case I chose to confess.
« You … have the right to know Valerian. But I must warn you, you’ll never see me the same after this » I said my voice trembling.
She was waiting for my explanation looking disturbed.
« I … have killed … my uncle … a … few years … ago. Yeah ! I’m a murderer ! That is the truth » I said now sobbing and sniffing.
« That’s not the whole story though ... » started Omnis.
« Ominis, stop trying to defend my actions ! I did what I did. I killed my uncle. That’s all there is to know ! » I shouted in a fury.
That’s when I realised how much rage I had been containing all this time and how it was eating me alive.
« No. Your uncle was too harsh with you. You were trying to save Anne ! » he insisted now shouting.
No one talked for what seemed like an eternity. I was weeping and my body was in a state of shock, trembling.
« Why did you kill your uncle Sebastian ? » demanded Valerian sorrowfully looking in my direction.
« It doesn’t matter why I killed him. I just did. Accept that your future brother-in-law is a murderer » I said losing my mind.
She sighed to my powerful choice of words.
« Tell me what happened, please. Let me forge my own opinion on the matter » she pleaded.
But I was unable to speak I was so overwhelmed. Tears were pouring down my face.
« Sebastian thought he had found a way to save Anne with the dark relic, a powerful dark object he found in a catacomb. I was worried so I warned Anne, who warned her uncle. I then returned to Sebastian’s side, trying to reason with him. His uncle found us and destroyed the relic and that’s what triggered Sebastian. They would both … always disagree when Anne was concerned. They started a duel, one that didn’t end well for Uncle Solomon » explained Ominis regretful.
There was an uncomfortable silence.
« You should know that Sebastian did everything he could to save his sister. But his uncle didn’t believe she could be saved. And that created tensions between them. As you know, Sebastian’s parents died when he was young, and his uncle looked after both of them. And you know Anne forgave her brother in the end » he expalined as if we were at court and he was trying to defend me.
It’s was weird hearing the same story from another’s point of view. I knew I messed up, but hearing it from another’s perspective shook me to my core.
I was still wailing, and Valerian was lost in her thoughts.
« Do you regret killing your uncle ? » she asked looking confused.
I sniffed.
« Of course I do. I think about it every single day and trust me when I say I loathe myself and will feel remorseful until the day I die. I was blinded by anger and I was young. But that is no excuse » I divuldged.
She looked profondly troubled. I guess it’s not everyday you hear such a confession.
« But Anne forgave you ? And Ominis ? » she questioned.
I looked down, feeling ashamed because I didn’t deserve their forgiveness.
« They did » I professed.
« I only have one question left, and I need you to answer truthfuly. Would you ever try to hurt Ominis ? Because if you did, I want you to know that I will stop you before you had even the chance to think about it. And if you did take him away from me, I swear to God I will hunt you down to deal with you myself » she said determined her face looking resentful.
She actually scared me.
« I would never hurt him ! I know my word means nothing to you because you know the whole story. But Ominis has been the only one to remain faithful to me. He always had my best interest at heart. He was the first one to forgive me ! The first one to come back into my life ! He’s my brother ! And I swore to him that I would never use dark magic again. And I swear if I ever have dark thoughts again, I ask of you both to stop me. Valerian, if I ever tried to hurt him, then I ask you to kill me yourself. Though I know it would never come to that as I couldn’t hurt my brother, nor my sister-in-law » I said dead set on my words.
Her eyes looked at me completely differently.
She rose up, stepped right in front of me, her want in her right hand.
My felt my heart would stop.
But she did something unexpected, she then embraced me, holding me tight.
Her gesture left me stunned and speechless.
I couldn’t even place my arms around her I was so astouned.
She let go of me, kneeling in front of me.
« I’m sorry you have been through so much. I didn’t mean to sound harsh. I believe you to be sincere. But know that I meant every word. I need you to swear it to me. That you wouln’t never hurt Ominis » she said compassionately.
I approched my face near hers, keeping a respectable distance between us.
« I swear it to you, Valerian. And I also swear to be a better brother to you than I ever was to my own sister » I said my voice quivering.
She smiled as she wiped her tears, then hugged me again.
« Sebastian, You went through great lenghts for your sister, and that only shows how much you loved her and cared for her. Though the methods were disputable. But you were wrong you know ? I remember you saying how much I would despise you if ever I knew he truth. And in all sincerity, I don’t. I blame life for being hard on the both of you. But you have eachother, always and forever. And we are a family, or will be soon enough. And there’s nothing more powerful than the sence of belonging. And you belong with us Sebastian. Not in Azkaban. This isn’t what Anne wanted for you. That’s not what we want for you. So stay with us. Please. We both need you. » she said so affectionately.
I shed a tear to her heat-warming words.
And I couldn’t help but take her into my arms once again.
She let out a startled noise, but embraced me in return.
I could see Ominis smile. He probably felt releaved he didn’t have to keep this secret from her any longer. And he looked at her like she was the person that he loved most on earth.
She then smiled to me and sat down by Ominis’s side, who hugged her dearly and then kissed her pasisonately. I trie to look away. Then they both parted as she spoke.
« Well, we should eat. I guess the food won’t be so warm anymore » she said with a smile.
I was still feeling in a daze. She had shown great compassion to me tonight. And I felt grateful.
We all shared this diner, and my heart felt lighter after sharing this secret with her.