The Daughter of Valancaire

I blinked as my vision cleared, adjusting to the sight of my three brothers hovering over me.

“Jessa,” they called softly the moment my eyes fluttered open.

I groaned inwardly, knowing full well what was coming.

The Intervention Begins

Valor, ever the silent force of nature, was the first to speak. His tone was calm, but I knew better than to take that lightly.

“I forbade your friends from visiting for now,” he stated matter-of-factly. “They wanted to see you, but you need to rest.”

I sighed. Of course, he did.

Before I could protest, Jace leaned forward, arms crossed, an unreadable expression on his face.

“What happened, Jessa?” Valor asked, his sharp gaze boring into me. “Did Grandfather push you too much? Because if he did—”

“No!” I interrupted quickly, shaking my head. “It’s not Grandfather, Valor. I—”

But Jace was still staring at me, his expression far too knowing for my liking.

“I noticed Sebastian and Ominis didn’t return to their common room until very late last night,” he said quietly, his voice calm but unnervingly sharp. “Would you happen to know why?”

I froze.

Vix and Valor were both staring at me now, waiting for my answer.

Technically, I wasn’t lying when I answered. “We researched Anne’s curse.”

The truth—just not all of it.

I felt Jace’s skepticism like a weight pressing down on me.

“Jessa,” he said, voice quieter now, more serious. “It’s not your job to fix everything. You already have enough on your plate as it is.”

“I know,” I murmured, but even I didn’t believe it.

Valor watched me, eyes narrowed slightly as if trying to determine whether I was lying.

I held my breath.

He didn’t push further. Instead, he nodded once.

“Unfortunately,” Vix cut in, stroking my hair gently, “Nurse Blainey already sent word to our parents. It’s the second time you’ve been in the hospital wing.”

I groaned loudly, slamming my head back onto the pillow.

“They’re coming to visit,” he continued, clearly enjoying my suffering.

“And,” Valor added with finality, “you will rest.”

There was no room for argument in his voice.

Jace looked like he wanted to protest, but one warning glance from Valor shut him up immediately.

Before they left, each of them pressed a quick kiss to my forehead.

“Take care of yourself, Jessa,” Jace muttered.

They left, and I sighed deeply, rubbing my temples.

_____

Just as I was contemplating how to escape my brother’s watchful eyes for my meeting with Garreth later, I heard a sudden noise beside my bed.

“Whew, I thought they’d never leave,” a familiarly mischievous voice said.

I nearly jumped.

“Garreth!” I hissed. “What in Merlin’s name—”

He grinned down at me, looking completely unbothered as he plopped into the chair beside my bed.

“Relax, sweets,” he teased, wiggling his fingers dramatically. “I received your owl, and when I heard you were stuck here, I thought I’d come check on you. Your brothers, however, were being complete killjoys and practically had the hospital wing under lockdown.”

I sighed, exasperated but also amused.

“So you snuck in?” I asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Technically, I was never not supposed to be here,” he said with a cheeky grin before handing me a small pouch.

“Here, chocolates. For energy.”

I couldn’t help but smile.

“You really are a menace, Garreth Weasley.”

“A menace with excellent taste in sweets,” he corrected.

I laughed softly, shaking my head as I took the chocolates.

“So, I guess our trip into the Forbidden Forest is going to be rescheduled?” he asked, tilting his head playfully.

My instinctive reaction was immediate—

“No!”

I said it far too quickly, my voice a little too loud, causing Garreth to look at me in alarm.

“Jessa, my sweet,” he said, his teasing tone replaced with genuine concern, “you need to rest. You look like you were dragged through a battlefield.”

I forced a weak smile, gripping the chocolates in my hand.

“It was just lack of sleep,” I lied. “I’ll meet you tonight. Please.”

Garreth hesitated, his green eyes searching my face.

He could see the desperation—the urgency—in my expression.

Finally, he sighed.

“Alright, sweet. I’ll meet you at the entrance at dusk. Use the Disillusionment charm, yeah?”

I exhaled in relief, nodding.

“Thank you.”

Garreth’s smile softened.

“I’ll see you then.”

Just as he was about to slip away, the worst possible thing happened.

The door burst open.

___

“Jessa—”

Samantha’s voice trailed off the moment she stepped into the hospital wing, followed closely by Natty, Poppy, Sebastian, and Ominis.

The moment their eyes landed on Garreth sitting beside my bed, a heavy silence fell over the room.

Natty and Poppy exchanged knowing looks, their faces lighting up with barely restrained amusement.

Samantha, on the other hand, squealed and clasped her hands together.

The boys, however—

Oh.

Oh no.

Sebastian and Ominis were standing by, completely motionless, their expressions difficult to read.

“Hi, Garreth,” Natty greeted far too sweetly. “It’s nice of you to visit Jessa.”

“Oh well,” Garreth said, standing up, entirely oblivious to the charged atmosphere around him. “Just dropping off some sweets for my sweet.”

He winked at me, then turned to leave, casually brushing past Sebastian and Ominis without a second thought.

Sebastian’s eyes flickered toward the small pouch Garreth had left behind.

“Sweets for his sweet,” he muttered under his breath, barely loud enough for me to catch.

Ominis, standing beside him, exhaled sharply through his nose.

“At least he brought chocolates and not an invitation to break into a bloody forest,” he murmured.

“Oh, I don’t know,” Sebastian said dryly, watching Garreth disappear through the door, “he seems like the type who’d think sneaking into a dragon’s nest is a grand adventure.”

I raised a brow at them, but before I could say anything, Samantha cleared her throat dramatically, shifting the attention back to herself.

“I have your letters for you, Jessa,” she said, holding up a small stack of envelopes.

“One from Anne, another from your parents,Professor Fig—” she paused, her lips curling into a mischievous smirk. “And, of course, one from Garreth.”

Poppy and Natty giggled, their expressions filled with far too much amusement.

“We also brought you some snacks,” Natty said, placing a small wrapped package on my nightstand.

“Though,” Poppy added playfully, “they might not be as ‘sweet’ as Garreth’s.”

I groaned, rubbing my temples as Samantha stifled a laugh.

“You all are impossible.”

Meanwhile, Sebastian and Ominis stood quietly, saying nothing.

Sebastian had his arms crossed, his fingers tapping idly against his sleeve, while Ominis kept his posture perfectly straight, his lips pressed into a thin line.

I sighed, lowering my hands as I looked at them.

“I’m fine,” I assured them, my voice softer now. “It’s just fatigue. I just need rest.”

Sebastian hesitated, but Ominis nodded, though he still seemed deep in thought.

Samantha clapped her hands together, cutting through the thick atmosphere.

“Then we’ll leave you to rest,” she announced, giving me a gentle smile before turning toward the others.

“Thank you all for visiting,” she said, her gaze lingering on Sebastian and Ominis for just a second longer than necessary.

They both shifted slightly, saying nothing as they turned toward the door.

As my friends filed out, I sank back into my pillows, exhaling a quiet breath.

Tonight.

Tonight, I would meet Garreth at the entrance.

I had a Forbidden Forest to conquer and a potion to brew.

______

Jace’s POV

I made my way through the castle, my steps quieter than usual, my mind focused on getting to Jessa. She had only just woken up, and I didn’t care what Valor had said—I needed to check on her again.

But as I approached the hospital wing, I stopped in my tracks.

Sebastian and Ominis.

Hovering.

They weren’t inside.

They weren’t sitting.

They weren’t even talking to Nurse Blainey about Jessa’s condition.

No.

They were standing just outside the door, backs pressed against the stone wall, both of them clearly trying to compose themselves. But the way Sebastian’s jaw was tight, his hand clenched at his side, and the way Ominis had his head slightly lowered, his wand gripped like a lifeline…

Something was wrong.

“This is all our fault,” Ominis whispered sharply, his voice carrying in the empty corridor.

Sebastian didn’t reply at first, just exhaled sharply, raking a hand through his hair.

“We had a choice!” Ominis pressed on, his voice rising slightly, laced with frustration. “We should not have gone in there!”

Gone where?

Sebastian’s shoulders tensed. “It was for Anne—”

And then they sensed me.

Sebastian snapped his mouth shut. Ominis stiffened. Both their heads turned toward me, their expressions flickering with shock, guilt, and something that looked like dread.

I stepped forward, crossing my arms over my chest, and narrowed my eyes.

“WHERE EXACTLY DID YOU RESEARCH?” My voice was low but firm.

Neither of them spoke.

“WHERE SHOULD YOU NOT HAVE GONE?” I pressed, my gaze locking onto Sebastian first, then Ominis.

They stiffened.

“Jessa told me you two were researching Anne’s curse,” I continued, watching for any sign of a reaction. “But I know there is more to that.”

And there it was.

The way Sebastian’s fingers twitched. The way Ominis’s grip on his wand tightened.

They weren’t just researching.

And whatever it was that they had done… Jessa paid the price for it.

“So?” I took another step closer, my patience running thin. “Are you going to tell me? Or do I have to figure it out myself?”

I was waiting for an answer, my patience hanging by a thread. The way Sebastian avoided my gaze, the way Ominis’s fingers tightened around his wand, their expressions unreadable—but guilty.

And then—

The door creaked open.

We all turned at the same time.

Jessa stood at the threshold of the hospital wing, dressed back in her uniform, looking far too composed for someone who had collapsed just hours ago. She took a moment to look at all three of us—first to Ominis and Sebastian, before her sharp eyes landed on me.

I focused on her immediately.

“Why—where are you going?” I asked, concern bleeding into my voice.

She tilted her head slightly, a small smile playing at her lips. “I had permission from Nurse Blainey to rest in my dormitory instead,” she said smoothly. Then, as if to divert the tension entirely, she sweetened her tone and added, “Why don’t you help me?”

Clever.

Very clever.

I studied her, the way she stood tall despite how exhausted she was. The way she ignored the weight of Sebastian and Ominis’s gazes.

She didn’t want me to push.

Not yet.

I cast one last warning glance at the two boys, my tone dropping to something low and promising as I said, “We are not done.”

Sebastian swallowed visibly. Ominis shifted, unreadable.

Jessa, as if pretending she wasn’t at the center of whatever storm I just walked into, gave them one final glance over her shoulder and said casually,

“See you later.”

And just like that, she walked past them, calm, composed—untouchable.

I followed her out, but my mind was already set.

I would get the truth.

Whether they liked it or not.

___

Jessa’s POV

I had stepped out just in time—Jace was questioning Sebastian and Ominis, and I needed to intervene before things got out of hand. Thank Merlin.

Still, even as we walked through the corridors toward the Ravenclaw Tower, Jace’s curiosity refused to wane. His gaze was sharp, his steps deliberate, his arms crossed in a way that made it clear—he wasn’t dropping this anytime soon.

“Jessa, tell me the truth.”

I sighed, already expecting this.

“I know you’re hiding something,” he continued. “You and Sebastian—” his voice lowered, almost calculating ”—I know of your connection.”

I froze.

For the first time since waking up in the hospital wing, real dread settled in my stomach.

“What… what do you know?” I asked carefully, watching his face.

He studied me for a moment before tilting his head slightly, as if he were seeing right through me. “I know that something is pulling you to him.”

So he can feel it too.

That Sebastian is tied to my fate. That Ominis, Anne—all three of them are.

I stared at Jace, my breath catching slightly.

But I couldn’t say it. Not yet.

“Please trust me on this one, brother,” I said quietly, pleading with my eyes.

There was a pause, Jace watching me with silent scrutiny, before he sighed dramatically and ran a hand through his hair.

“Fine,” he muttered, though his tone lacked real frustration. Then, with a smirk, he added, “I still want to make those two squirm, though.”

I laughed, unable to help myself. “Of course you do.”

We finally reached Ravenclaw Tower, and before I could retreat to the dormitory, Jace grabbed my shoulder lightly, his expression more serious now.

“Jessa, rest. And I mean it.” His tone was firm, but worried. “Don’t go to training tonight. Just—just rest.”

I bit my lip.

I was going to the forest tonight.

I needed Essentia Veritas brewed as soon as possible. Sebastian is unstoppable—at this point, everything I saw in my visions was still on track to unravel. If I wanted to stop it, I had to act now.

I forced the sweetest smile I could muster and lied through my teeth.

“Yes, Jace. I’ll rest.”

Jace sighed, relenting, and hugged me goodbye before finally leaving.

The moment the door closed behind me, I exhaled sharply.

I had only a short amount of time to prepare before my meeting with Garreth.

I hurried to my trunk, pulling out my satchel and carefully tucking in the potions I would need. I grabbed my list of ingredients, scanning over it one last time. Essentia Veritas had to be brewed under specific conditions—I needed every single item before the next full moon.

I had to succeed tonight.

I slumped down on my bed briefly, finally opening the letters Samantha had left me.

•From my parents—worried, naturally. I sighed, already feeling guilty.

•From Garreth—confirming our meeting at the forest, though he had sent it before he knew I was hospitalized.

•From Professor Fig—informing me he’d be back at Hogwarts in three days.

Finally.

I placed the letters aside and allowed myself to rest, even if just for a while.

__

I woke just before dusk, my heart thrumming.

Samantha wasn’t in the dormitory yet—thank Merlin. If she caught me, she would never let me leave.

I grabbed the most neutral-colored outfit I could find—comfortable slacks, a soft jumper, and boots sturdy enough for the terrain—before slinging my satchel over my shoulder.

Taking a deep breath, I pulled out my wand and murmured an incantation, casting the Disillusionment Charm over myself.

The effect wasn’t perfect—it left a slight shimmer, barely visible in dim light, but it would be enough to get past any prefects patrolling the halls.

I moved silently, slipping through the corridors like a shadow, barely a whisper against the stone floors.

The Forbidden Forest loomed ahead, waiting.

I had one chance to gather what I needed.

And I wouldn’t waste it.

___

The Forbidden Forest loomed before me, its towering trees stretching endlessly into the night sky. The twisted branches above cast eerie shadows, and the wind carried an unnatural whisper, as if the very woods were alive, watching, waiting. A blanket of mist curled around the roots of ancient oaks, and in the distance, faint glowing specks drifted between the trees—moon moths, or perhaps something more ominous.

I scanned the area for Garreth, glancing over my shoulder every now and then, wary of patrolling professors or worse—wandering centaurs, acromantulas, or mongrels.

Where is he?

“Psst—Sweets! Over here.”

I turned, my wand at the ready, only to spot Garreth grinning at me from behind a large oak tree. He was dressed in a black jumper and slacks, a satchel slung over his shoulder, his red hair ruffled by the night breeze. The moonlight caught his freckled face, making his mischievous smirk all the more infuriatingly charming.

“Finally,” I muttered, approaching him. “I was starting to think you’d been eaten by a werewolf.”

He let out a soft chuckle. “You wound me, Sweets. I’d like to think I’m too handsome to be anyone’s midnight snack.”

I rolled my eyes, but smiled despite myself. “Well, thanks for indulging me, Garreth. I do have some ingredients I need to find.”

I handed him the list without elaborating.

Garreth hummed as he scanned the parchment, his green eyes flickering with interest. “Hmm… most of these are easy to get—though some are deeper in the forest. But the Starlight Essence… now that’s tricky.”

I tensed. “Why?”

He grinned. “Because we can only find it in a clearing rumored to be home to unicorns. You’re in luck, Sweets. It’s a clear night.”

I exhaled. “Thank Merlin.”

Garreth tucked the list away and raised an eyebrow at me. “And what exactly is this for?”

I hesitated. “It’s… for something I’m working on.”

He smirked but didn’t push. “Alright, mystery girl. And what about me? Will you not ask me?”

I shot him a look. “That’s your business, isn’t it?”

He grinned wider. “Oh, so we’re keeping secrets now?”

I smirked back. “You tell me what you’re brewing, and I’ll tell you what I’m brewing.”

“Touché, Sweets.”

I sighed, exasperated. “Why do you keep calling me that?”

He tapped his chin dramatically, as if considering his words. “Your eyes remind me of honey glazed raspberry toffees. Sweet, blue, and dangerously addictive.”

I blinked. That was… unexpectedly smooth.

“I see,” I murmured, slightly flustered.

Garreth smirked.

“Well then, Gar, shall we go scavenging?”

He snorted. “Gar? That’s what we’re doing now?”

“I’m just returning the favor.”

“Hmm. I like it.” He winked. “Alright then, Sweets, let’s find us some trouble.”

The deeper we ventured, the darker the forest became. The dense canopy overhead blocked out the moonlight, and the occasional rustle in the underbrush sent shivers down my spine.

The gnarled trees twisted unnaturally, their vines like grasping fingers. A soft blue glow flickered in the distance—moonlit mushrooms—their eerie light pulsing gently, illuminating the fog that drifted across the forest floor.

“Poacher camp up ahead,” Garreth whispered, nodding toward the flickering orange glow of campfires between the trees.

I froze.

“What?! You didn’t mention poachers!”

“We’ll be fine.” He grinned, completely unfazed. “As long as we stay quiet, keep our Disillusionment Charms active, and don’t step on anything loud—”

A sharp crack echoed through the night as his foot landed on a dry twig.

“Merlin’s beard, Gar!” I hissed.

He grimaced. “Oops.”

Voices stirred from the poacher camp. I grabbed his sleeve and yanked him behind a thick tree trunk, pressing a hand over his mouth.

We held our breath as heavy boots crunched toward us.

“Did you hear that?” one of them muttered.

“A deer, probably,” another replied. “But stay sharp. Rookwood’s got eyes everywhere.”

Rookwood?

I didn’t dare breathe. Neither did Garreth.

After a tense moment, the poachers moved away. I removed my hand from Garreth’s mouth.

“You absolute menace,” I whispered.

He grinned, unapologetic. “I live to keep you on your toes.”

Gathering Ingredients

After carefully avoiding Dugbogs and packs of wolves, we reached the first set of ingredients.

🔹 Ashwinder Eggs—We found a small nest tucked between twisted roots, glowing faintly like dying embers. Garreth carefully scooped them into a pouch.

🔹 Nightshade Bloom—Delicate purple-black flowers hidden among thorny vines. I carefully plucked a few, being mindful of the barbs.

🔹 Fluxweed Sprigs—Growing wild between ancient ruins, their silvery leaves shimmered under the moonlight.

Finally, we approached the clearing where the Starlight Essence could be found.

The moment we stepped through the trees, my breath caught.

The clearing was bathed in silver light. Tiny glowing wisps floated gently in the air, like falling stars caught in a slow drift. And in the center—a unicorn.

It was magnificent. Its coat was a shimmering white-gold, its mane flowing like liquid starlight. The unicorn gazed at us, unafraid, its eyes deep and knowing.

“It’s beautiful,” I whispered.

Garreth nodded, his usual bravado softening into quiet wonder.

The air itself hummed with magic. As I stepped forward, a soft glow pulsed beneath my feet—the Starlight Essence. Tiny orbs of twinkling silver light hovered above the grass, waiting to be gathered.

“Careful,” Garreth murmured.

I reached out, and the orbs drifted into my hand, forming a delicate vial of shimmering liquid. The Starlight Essence.

We had everything we needed.

I exhaled in relief. “We did it.”

Garreth smirked. “Told you this would be fun.”

I gave him a pointed look. “Let’s get out of here before something decides we look tasty.”

We turned to leave, but just as we stepped back into the forest, a low, guttural growl rumbled through the air.

I froze.

Garreth stiffened.

“Tell me that was your stomach,” I whispered.

He shook his head slowly. “I really wish it was.”

A pair of glowing red eyes blinked open in the shadows. Then another. And another.

Mongrels.

“Ah. So,” Garreth whispered. “Run?”

“Run.”

And we ran.

Branches whipped past my face as we ran through the forest, our hurried footsteps kicking up leaves and loose dirt. The snarls and rapid pounding of paws behind us sent my heart racing—the Mongrels were fast.

Garreth grabbed my hand, pulling me toward a fallen tree wedged at an incline. “Up here!” he hissed.

Without thinking, I leapt up, gripping the rough bark, my boots scraping against the trunk as I hoisted myself onto the high ground. Garreth followed right behind me, just as one of the Mongrels lunged.

It snapped at the air where his foot had been a second earlier.

We scrambled higher, reaching a rocky ledge, panting as we collapsed onto the moss-covered ground. Below us, the Mongrels paced, snarling up at us, their eyes glowing red in the darkness.

Garreth peeked over the edge, grinning. “Well, I’d say that went well.”

I let out a breathless laugh. “You have an interesting definition of ‘well,’ Weasley.”

The Mongrels circled the base of the rock, growling in frustration before finally slipping back into the darkness of the trees.

I wiped the sweat from my brow and turned to Garreth, still catching my breath. “Is this how you spend your free time, Gar?”

He let out a carefree chuckle, leaning back on his elbows. “Exhilarating, eh, Sweets?”

I giggled, shaking my head. “You are completely insane.”

“And yet, you’re still here.”

I huffed, knowing he was right.

Garreth rummaged through his satchel and pulled out a small glass vial, filled with a faintly glowing blue liquid.

“Here,” he said, tossing it to me.

I caught it easily, eyeing the liquid suspiciously. “And what’s this?”

“In vig-or-a-ting Draught,” he said slowly, smirking. “Since I’m not carrying you out of this forest, you better drink it.”

I rolled my eyes. “I’m perfectly fine.”

He just raised a brow. “Sure you are. You definitely didn’t just sprint like a madwoman through an entire pack of Mongrels. But by all means, keep suffering.”

I sighed dramatically and uncorked the vial, downing the potion. A familiar cool rush of energy spread through my limbs, dulling the ache in my legs and clearing my mind.

“Better?” Garreth asked, watching me.

I licked my lips, nodding. “Much.”

He grinned. “Good, because we still have a few ingredients left to find.”

I groaned but got to my feet. “Lead the way, oh great potion master.”

Garreth chuckled, offering me his hand. “I like the sound of that.”

With one last glance at the darkened forest below, we continued deeper into the night.

_____

The forest felt calmer now, the eerie silence not as suffocating now that we had found everything we needed. The cool night air brushed against my skin as I secured the last vial of Silvervine Sap into my satchel.

“Well, Sweets,” Garreth stretched, his arms behind his head, looking ridiculously pleased with himself. “I’d say that was a successful trip.”

I raised a brow, eyeing the massive amount of Moonstone sticking out of his bag.

“You got what you wanted, at least,” I teased, nudging him.

He grinned proudly, adjusting his satchel. “Can’t go wrong with a lifetime supply of Moonstone.”

I rolled my eyes, but my amusement was cut short when I noticed a glint of metal in the underbrush nearby.

“Garreth, look,” I whispered.

A poacher’s trap.

Inside, a Mooncalf trembled, its large blue eyes filled with fear.

My heart clenched.

I rushed forward, kneeling by the trap, pulling out my wand. “We need to let it out—”

“Sweets, wait—” Garreth grabbed my wrist, pulling me back slightly. “Think for a second—why would a poacher’s trap be unattended?”

As if on cue, two figures stepped from the shadows.

“Well, well,” a deep voice drawled. “What do we have here?”

Garreth and I froze as the two poachers stalked forward, their wands already drawn.

“A couple of students,” the second one sneered. “Trying to steal from us.”

We were screwed.

Garreth groaned under his breath. “Sweets, you just had to be the hero, didn’t you?”

I shot him a look. “Are you really going to blame me right now?”

The taller poacher smirked. “You know, we were only planning on taking the beast—” He pointed his wand at us. “But now, I think we’ll take you too.”

No way in hell.

Garreth sighed, cracking his neck. “Hope you’re ready for a fight, Sweets.”

I let out a sharp exhale, already gripping my wand tightly.

And then everything exploded into motion.

A bolt of red light came hurtling toward us—Garreth shoved me aside, and I barely had time to throw up a Protego. The shield flickered, absorbing the impact before shattering under the force.

Garreth was surprisingly quick, immediately firing off a Bombarda, sending one of the poachers stumbling back.

The second poacher was on me instantly.

“Expelliarmus!” I flicked my wand, but they dodged, whipping their own wand toward me.

“Diffindo!”

The air hissed, and I twisted away—but not fast enough.

A sharp sting of pain sliced across my arm.

I gasped, stumbling, my free hand clutching my sleeve as warm blood seeped through the fabric.

Garreth saw it immediately, his green eyes widening in alarm.

“Sweets!”

I grit my teeth, forcing myself to stay focused. “I’m fine!”

The poacher grinned, raising their wand again.

Not this time.

I raised mine faster.

“Depulso!”

The force sent them flying into a tree, knocking them unconscious.

One down.

I turned just in time to see the other poacher launching a spell straight at Garreth.

“Confringo!”

The orange blaze raced toward him.

Garreth’s eyes widened, too slow to react.

I moved before I could think.

“Protego Maxima!”

The barrier erupted between him and the curse, absorbing the impact in a dazzling flash of light.

Garreth blinked at me. “Sweets—”

“Stupefy!” I cut him off, sending the final poacher crashing into the dirt.

Silence.

Garreth and I panted, taking in the scene.

The Mooncalf, now freed, scampered off into the forest.

Garreth whirled on me.

“Bloody hell, Sweets!” He grabbed my injured arm, his eyes wide with concern. “Don’t do that again!”

I winced slightly as he yanked out a vial of Wiggenweld Potion.

“I’m fine,” I muttered weakly.

Garreth scoffed. “Yeah? Well, you don’t look fine.”

I sighed but let him uncork the potion and press it into my hands.

“You better drink all of that,” he muttered.

I rolled my eyes but downed the potion.

The pain eased instantly.

Garreth sighed, shaking his head. “You’re a menace, you know that?”

I smirked. “And yet, you still invite me on these little adventures.”

He chuckled. “I must be mad.”

I grinned. “Completely.”

With one last glance at the unconscious poachers, we hurried out of the forest, our mission complete.

___

The castle loomed ahead, the familiar sight of Hogwarts’ towering silhouette bringing a sense of relief after the night’s ordeal. Garreth and I moved swiftly, still concealed beneath our Disillusionment charm, our footsteps silent against the stone pathways.

Despite the exhaustion settling into my bones, I found myself smiling.

“Well, Sweets,” Garreth muttered under his breath as we neared the entrance. “We should definitely do that again—minus the part where you nearly get yourself sliced open.”

I chuckled. “I promise, no heroics next time.”

Garreth shot me a look, still clearly unconvinced. “I’ll believe it when I see it.”

As we reached the Ravenclaw Tower, he slowed, rubbing the back of his neck.

“Well,” he said, shifting on his feet. “I guess this is goodnight?”

I turned to him, smiling softly. “Thank you, Garreth. You don’t know how much you helped me tonight.”

His cheeks darkened, and he quickly cleared his throat. “Oh, well, you know, anything for you, Sweets.”

I laughed, watching him scramble for composure. “Goodnight, Gar.”

He hesitated for a moment, then grinned. “Goodnight, Sweets.”

With that, he turned and disappeared into the shadows, leaving me to climb the winding staircase to my dormitory.

But before I could open the door—

A voice, low and edged with something dangerously close to irritation, cut through the dimly lit corridor.

“Well, well,” it drawled. “Garreth and his Sweets went on a little adventure.”

I froze.

From the shadows near the archway, Sebastian stepped forward, arms crossed, looking as if he had been waiting for hours. Ominis was beside him, his expression unreadable, but his posture rigid.

“Bas. Ominis.” I exhaled sharply, already dreading this conversation. “What are you doing here?”

Ominis tilted his head slightly. “We wanted to talk to you,” he said simply. “But Samantha said you were out.”

Sebastian’s dark gaze flickered to my satchel, my disheveled clothes, the faint rip along my sleeve where the poacher’s Diffindo had struck.

His jaw clenched.

“I smell blood,” Ominis stated, his voice tightening. “What happened? Are you hurt?”

I sighed, raising my hands. “I’m fine, Ominis—”

Sebastian stepped closer. “You were in the Forbidden Forest with him, weren’t you?”

The accusation burned in his voice, and I could practically hear his restraint snapping.

“That was reckless!”

Ominis’ jaw ticked, and though his expression remained neutral, I could sense the undercurrent of frustration radiating from him too.

I exhaled, rubbing my temples. “Why are you here?” I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.

Sebastian scoffed. “Don’t change the topic just yet.”

“Why were you with him, Jessa?”

I stared at him.

“I needed help. He helped me,” I said plainly, not in the mood for this interrogation.

Sebastian let out a sharp breath, running a hand through his hair.

“Helped you with what exactly?” Ominis asked, arms folded. His tone was calmer than Sebastian’s, but there was something pointed beneath it.

I hesitated.

I couldn’t tell them everything. Not yet.

Sebastian narrowed his eyes. “You’re hiding something.”

I sighed again.

“I wanted to brew a potion that I read about in a book,” I said, keeping my voice even. “That’s it.”

Sebastian’s frown deepened, but it was Ominis I glanced at.

Recognition flashed in his expression. He remembered what I had told him—the potion, my need for time.

“A potion?” Sebastian echoed, still visibly annoyed. “You wanted to experiment, so you went to the Forbidden Forest?”

His voice dripped with disbelief.

I let out a slow, measured sigh.

“Sebastian, calm down,” Ominis interjected before I could answer, his voice firm.

I took the chance to turn the conversation back on him. “Are you annoyed that I went into the forest, or that I went with Garreth?”

Sebastian snapped his head toward me, scowling.

“Both.”

I bit back a groan, crossing my arms. “Bas, please. I am not a child. And frankly—” I exhaled, choosing my words carefully, “—I went back with less pain than last night.”

The effect was immediate.

They both stiffened.

Sebastian’s breath hitched, and Ominis’ jaw went rigid.

I shouldn’t have said that.

“I—” Sebastian stammered, looking utterly lost for words.

Ominis’ voice was calm, but too measured when he spoke. “That’s why we were here, Jessa. Can we talk?”

The undercroft was too far, and we all knew it. Ominis glanced around, already scanning for a quieter place. “Let’s find a corner here.”

Sebastian nodded, his frustration momentarily pushed aside by the weight of what we weren’t saying.

I sighed again.

Something told me that this conversation wouldn’t be any easier than the last.

____

We had found a quiet alcove in the castle, one of the many hidden corners away from prying eyes and ears, where we could finally speak freely. Ominis had cast Silencio, ensuring that whatever was said between us would remain between us.

Sebastian exhaled heavily, running a hand through his already-messy hair before finally looking at me.

 “I’m sorry. I really am, Jessa. If I had known what it would take to escape the Scriptorium—if I had known that I would hurt you—I wouldn’t have pushed for it.”

There was something raw in his voice, something that tugged at a part of me I wasn’t ready to acknowledge. He looked exhausted, weighed down by guilt and worry, but his gaze never left mine.

“I hate how your eyes looked at me,” he muttered, almost too low to hear.

I held my breath. “Even though there could be something in there to save Anne?” I asked.

Sebastian flinched, and for a moment, I thought he wouldn’t answer. But then, with a sharp breath, he said, “I would find another way.”

His conviction made my chest ache. He believed it—at least, he wanted to.

I sighed, letting my shoulders relax just a bit. “We’re both responsible. I helped convince Ominis, and I let you cast it on me. I could have refused.” My voice was softer now. “I’m at fault too.”

Ominis, who had been eerily quiet, finally scoffed. “Well, at least you both acknowledge that much,” he said, crossing his arms.

I turned to him with genuine remorse. “I think we should be apologizing to you the most, Ominis.”

Ominis blinked, taken aback. “What? Jessa, no—”

“Yes,” I said firmly, cutting off whatever argument he had prepared. “We should have listened to you.”

For a long moment, Ominis didn’t say anything. Then, his expression softened, and he let out a slow sigh. “Well,” he murmured, “at least I got closure for my aunt Noctua.”

Sebastian and I exchanged a glance. That had been one of the few good things to come out of our reckless venture.

Ominis gave a small, almost imperceptible nod. “For that, I have to thank you both for helping me bury her.”

Silence settled between us, heavy but not unbearable.

Finally, I decided to break it. “Well,” I said, clasping my hands together, “we’ve said our apologies. What’s done is done, and we won’t repeat it again.”

Both of them nodded in agreement.

Sebastian shifted uncomfortably before clearing his throat. “The book, Jessa…” he started, glancing at me warily. “I can’t give it to you just yet. The spells are written in ancient runes—I need time to decipher them.”

I felt relief wash over me. Good. That gave me more time. Time to brew the potion. Time to prepare. Once I successfully brewed Essentia Veritas, I could finally tell Sebastian.

“That’s fine,” I said easily, offering him a reassuring smile. “Take your time. You don’t want to mistranslate anything important.”

Sebastian seemed to relax at that, nodding in agreement.

Ominis, however, was still watching me closely. “Are you okay now?” he asked quietly. “About everything? The curse, the fatigue… and your little trip?” His jaw clenched at the last part, making it clear he wasn’t exactly over my excursion into the Forbidden Forest.

I hesitated before nodding. “I may need a little more rest, but I’ll be fine.”

Ominis frowned slightly, looking unconvinced. “Garreth helped you,” he said, and I could tell he was choosing his words carefully. “But… you do know that you could have asked us for help too, right?”

I grinned, tilting my head in mock innocence. “Would you go to the forest with me, then? Break some rules, my knight?”

Ominis straightened, looking almost offended. “Of course I would! I’d need some time to prepare myself, but of course I would.”

I let out a laugh, amused by how quickly he had answered.

Sebastian scoffed. “I’d go with you,” he said firmly, arms crossed. “No need for Weasley.”

I bit back a sigh. Of course he would. But not just yet.

To pacify them both, I relented. “Alright then. Next time, I’ll ask you first.”

Both of them seemed somewhat satisfied with that answer, though I could still sense lingering irritation.

We said our goodbyes after that, a silent reassurance passing between us. Our friendship had been shaken, but not broken. That, at least, was something.

____


As I entered the dormitory, I barely had time to take a breath before I was met with the sharp stare of Samantha, sitting on her bed, arms crossed, waiting for me. My stomach twisted. I was exhausted, disheveled, and clearly not in a state that would make it easy to lie my way out of this. My robes were still slightly torn from the Diffindo I had taken earlier, and despite Garreth’s quick healing, I could still feel the sting of the day’s events.

“You…” Samantha started, her voice a mix of frustration and concern. “You are out every night, Jessa, and you always come back looking half-dead! What is happening? And your clothes—are you okay?!”

I exhaled slowly, trying to form an excuse before my already-foggy mind failed me. “Sam… I’m okay,” I said, forcing a reassuring smile. “I’ve just been trying to catch up—spells, essays… I’ve been finding quiet places to work.” I hesitated, then added, “That’s all.”

I lied.

Samantha’s eyes narrowed. “Jessa.”

She didn’t believe me. Of course, she didn’t. I had been disappearing every night, returning in worse shape than before, and it was only a matter of time before she demanded a real answer.

But instead of pressing, she sighed. “I know you’re not telling me the whole truth,” she said, her voice softer this time. “But I won’t push you.” She crossed her arms tighter, glancing away. “Just… leave me a note next time, yeah? So I don’t sit here worrying all night?”

I felt a pang of guilt. Samantha had already been through so much with William’s condition—I didn’t want to be another person for her to lose sleep over.

I mustered a small smile. “Yeah. I promise.”

She nodded, though I could tell she wasn’t satisfied. “Now go take a shower and drink your potions before you collapse again.”

I obeyed, feeling more exhausted than ever.

After freshening up, I finally managed to relax a little. Samantha, now tucked in bed, was still watching me like a mother hen. To pacify her, I told her about Garreth—though, of course, I omitted the part about our little adventure in the Forbidden Forest. Instead, I told her about his ridiculous nickname for me, Sweets, and how he had given me a pouch of rare potion ingredients as a gift.

That seemed to do the trick. She teased me relentlessly before finally falling asleep.

I, however, could not rest.

No matter how much my body begged for sleep, I still had one more task for the night.

I had to go to the Keep.

Carefully, I slipped out of bed, gathering my satchel once more.

With one last glance at Samantha, who was now sound asleep, I grabbed my hidden pouch of Floo Powder. Went to the classroom again and —-

I inhaled deeply.

Then, as softly as possible, I whispered, “Valancaire Keep.”

The green flames roared around me, and I vanished into the night once again.

______

As the green flames died down and I stepped into the dimly lit courtyard of Valancaire Keep, I braced myself, expecting the usual barrage of spell fire or physical attacks meant to sharpen my instincts.

But nothing came.

Instead, my grandfather stood at the entrance, arms folded, his piercing gaze assessing me from head to toe. His presence was always imposing, his fitted black robes making him appear like a shadow against the grand stonework of the keep.

I hesitated. “No attacks?” I asked warily.

His lips pressed into a thin line. “Your body needs to heal,” he stated simply. “But do not grow complacent, Jessa.” His voice was cold, clipped, but there was something behind it—something akin to restraint. “The next time you come here… expect worse.”

I swallowed hard. I should’ve known better than to think this was mercy.

“Follow me,” he commanded, already turning.

I fell in step behind him, my boots clicking against the polished stone floors as we entered the library.

The Valancaire Keep Library

Unlike the cozy warmth of Hogwarts’ library, this one was old—ancient, even—yet pristine, as if untouched by time. Towering bookshelves stretched high into the vaulted ceiling, filled with tomes that radiated age and wisdom. Some books were bound in deep emerald leather with silver etchings, others in dragonhide, their pages protected by enchantments only a Valancaire could break. Chandeliers of enchanted blue flames floated above, casting an eerie glow on the dark oak desks below.

Scrolls and relics lined the walls, sealed in glass cases or locked away in enchanted cabinets. The scent of parchment, ink, and something distinctly metallic filled the air.

This was a place of knowledge. Of power.

A place where secrets had been recorded for centuries.

“Today,” my grandfather said, settling into one of the high-backed chairs near a massive obsidian desk, “we fill you with knowledge.”

I followed his lead, taking the seat across from him.

“Your memories,” he continued, “entail a goblin rebellion. If you are to navigate the future ahead of you, you must first understand the past. The relationship between goblins and wizards is a complicated one, steeped in history… and blood.”

He gestured, and with a flick of his wand, a large black leather-bound tome floated from the shelves and landed between us.

The title, written in shimmering silver ink, read:

“The Goblin Rebellions: A History of Power, Betrayal, and Bloodshed.”

I exhaled. This was it.

He turned the heavy cover, and as the pages flipped on their own, his deep voice carried through the silent library.

The History of Goblins and Wizards

“Goblins,” he began, “have existed as long as wizards have. They are highly intelligent, incredibly skilled in metalwork and enchantments, and possess a deep-seated resentment toward wizardkind.”

My fingers traced the illustrations of old goblin kings, their wickedly sharp features carved into stone reliefs, their beady eyes burning with something that looked like vengeance.

“This resentment,” my grandfather continued, “stems from centuries of oppression and mistreatment. Wizards, as you know, have historically viewed goblins as lesser beings—non-human creatures rather than equals.”

He flipped to a page depicting Gringotts Wizarding Bank, its grand halls lined with goblin-made gold.

“Despite this, goblins were instrumental in building much of the wizarding economy. They are master craftsmen, responsible for some of the most powerful magical artifacts in existence. Gryffindor’s sword? A goblin-forged blade. The most unbreakable vaults in our world? Created by goblins.”

His fingers tapped against the page, and his eyes gleamed darkly.

“But wizard arrogance led to betrayal.”

I felt a chill creep up my spine. “Betrayal?”

He nodded, his gaze sharp. “Wizards often borrowed goblin-forged weapons, promising to return them after use. But they never did. Wizards claimed these artifacts, refusing to acknowledge goblin ownership.”

He flipped the pages again, and the text detailed the Goblin Rebellions—one after another.

1612. 1752.

Each one a bloody uprising, an attempt for goblins to reclaim what was theirs. Each one crushed by wizards.

“They fought. They resisted. And each time, they were forced back into submission. But their hatred of wizardkind has only festered.” His eyes bore into mine. “That is why a rebellion is not surprising. If anything, it was inevitable.”

I swallowed hard. “So… what happens next?”

My grandfather leaned back in his chair, his fingers steepling beneath his chin. “That depends. On you.”

I blinked. “Me?”

He nodded. “You, Jessa, are in a unique position. You wield Ancient Magic, magic older than wizardkind itself. The goblins—if they discover this—will see you as either a threat… or an opportunity.”

I felt my stomach twist.

“They will either try to control you—or they will try to kill you.”

I gripped the arms of my chair.

“You must be prepared,” he continued. “Not just in skill, but in understanding. You must know how goblins think. How they strategize. Their weaknesses, their strengths.”

He slid the tome toward me.

“Read. Learn. Because if your memories are correct, then the next rebellion is not just coming, Jessa.”

His voice dropped to a near whisper.

“It has already begun.”

_____

For two hours, my grandfather immersed me in the deep, hidden history of goblins, revealing things that even the most comprehensive Hogwarts textbooks never dared to mention.

•Goblin Magic: Unlike wizards, goblins do not use wands, but their magic is powerful in its own right. Their spells are woven into metal, stone, and enchanted artifacts, making them formidable in magical craftsmanship.

•Goblin Law & Ownership: Goblins believe that any item they create belongs solely to them, no matter who purchases it. When a wizard dies, goblins expect any goblin-forged item to be returned to its creator. Wizards refusing to do so is one of the primary causes of rebellion.

•Goblin Banking System: The reason why Gringotts remains impenetrable is because goblins do not trust wizarding magic. Their vault enchantments are crafted through goblin blood rituals—magic so ancient that wizards have never been able to replicate it.

•Goblin Warfare: Unlike wizards, goblins do not duel. Their combat is brutal, tactical, and merciless. They rely on magical weaponry—blades that never dull, axes enchanted to cut through protective spells, and armor that repels most hexes.

•Goblin Allies: Though most goblins remain neutral, some form alliances with dark wizards, providing enchanted weapons in exchange for power. This has led to major betrayals in history.

•The Darkest Truth: Some goblin artifacts are rumored to be cursed beyond repair. If a wizard tries to steal them, the item itself will mark the thief, ensuring a fate worse than death.

I absorbed it all, writing mental notes as I listened.

The rebellion I saw in my memories was not just some uprising. It was something bigger. A culmination of centuries of hatred, betrayal, and revenge.

It was inevitable.

And I needed to be ready.

Before I left, my grandfather’s gaze lingered on me, as if assessing how much of his lessons I had truly absorbed.

I hesitated but finally asked, “Grandfather… I wanted to ask you about a potion. Essentia Veritas.”

His sharp eyes flickered with something unreadable. “Why do you ask about that?”

I carefully chose my words. “I read about it on the book you gave me. Its properties. I… I think it could be useful in my research.”

His fingers tapped against the desk, his expression unreadable. “That potion is not one to be brewed lightly, Jessa.”

I held my breath. He knew about it.

“Essentia Veritas is dangerous, because it reveals absolute truth,” he said, his voice a quiet warning. “It does not just diagnose ailments. It exposes all that the drinker’s body carries—curses, bloodline secrets, magical potential. Everything.”

A shiver ran down my spine. That meant if I gave it to Anne and her curse was anything more than a simple affliction, it would be revealed in full.

“You are planning to brew it,” he stated, not asked.

I didn’t deny it. “I am.”

My grandfather sighed, looking at me as though I was testing the limits of his patience.

“The potion must be brewed under a full moon, with moonstones encircling the cauldron. The final essence added determines its effect. Blood is the most potent, but other essences—like tears, hair, or memories—can be used to dilute its power.”

His gaze darkened. “But do not make the mistake of using the wrong essence. There have been instances where Essentia Veritas destroyed those who were not ready to face their truth.”

I swallowed hard.

“I will be careful,” I assured him.

“See that you are.” His eyes narrowed slightly. “And should you require… guidance,” he said carefully, “I will consider assisting you. But do not make a fool of yourself, Jessa. There are truths even you may not be ready to see.”

I clenched my fists. I had to be ready. I had no choice.

With a flick of his wand, he sent another vial of Floo Powder to me.

“Go. You have lessons to attend. But return tomorrow night.”

I gave a short bow and whispered, “Thank you, Grandfather.”

And with that, I stepped into the flames, whispering, “Ravenclaw Tower.”