Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Taking the train to Hogwarts was a surreal experience for you considering how you got there in your fifth year. You were able to take in the view that all your friends raved about- the mountains, the lakes, the trees. You sat with Garreth Weasley and his group of Gryffindor friends which earned you odd stares from Imelda Smelding and her friends.

You spent your entire summer with Garreth and his family, his aunt, Professor Weasley was kind enough to take you in for the summer and your friendship with Garreth had grown in the time you spent with him. You weren’t about to ditch him because of the silly house rivalries between Slytherin and Gryffindor when he asked if you wanted to sit with him on the train. He was goofy and immature yet he could be sweet and caring in the most uncommon of ways that you didn’t mind his company.

In fact, his spirit helped lift up yours on the days when the exhaustion of sleepless nights due to nightmares and insomnia would get to you. You were the Hero of Hogwarts and it came at a cost. Post-traumatic stress had gotten to you more often than not and you had no one to share it with. Your mentor who had been there from the beginning, Professor Fig, is dead.

His death haunted you still, nobody would understand the price of your ancient magic, you felt it burn within you now. Your emotions being a trigger for a blast of your power, throughout the summer you learned to control it, Garreth had even concocted a potion (that to your surprise worked successfully) to dull your power.

“You would have loved the boat ride to Hogwarts, Y/n/n,” Garreth brought you out of your thoughts.

“So I keep hearing,” You gave him a small smile.

“Only because it’s literally the most magical experience you’ll have at Hogwarts.”

You lifted a brow at him, “One would think the most magical experience I'd have at Hogwarts would be the actual magic.”

His laugh echoed through his friends who didn’t seem to mind your presence in their compartment. Leander Prewitt, who flirted shamelessly with you despite the fact that you bested him at whatever task he challenges you to.

Nellie Ogspire who is actually a mutual friend, dueled against you in crossed wands and informed you of the Daedalian Keys that fly around school opening cabinets that contained tokens that opened your house chest.

“You know what else is a magical experience-” Leander spoke.

Nellie stopped him before he could continue to say something atrocious, “Absolutely not. Nobody wants to know, we have plenty of better magical experiences, Prewitt.”

Leander crossed his arm and slumped into his seat, “Whatever.”

You smiled to yourself as you gazed out the window, recognizing all the places you’ve traveled and longing for all the ones you haven’t yet. You’ve been all across this side of the wizarding world, visiting hamlets, helping the helpless, saving defenseless animals, and raiding camps of loyalists and Ashwinders. Some on your own and others with your friends who you couldn’t wait to see.

Natsai- Nattys mom insisted they travel to Hogwarts together, their own way, she told you in the last letter she wrote to you right before summer ended.

You couldn’t find Poppy at the platform, You and Imelda were more respectful competitive housemates/acquaintances than friends who would sit in the same compartment, and you weren’t sure if Ominis would want to sit with you.

As far as you knew, you left off as friends, he sent you cordial letters over the summer, twice maybe three times a month just filling each other in so that you’re not complete strangers. It was a safer bet to stick with Garreth.

One person you secretly hoped you would see at the train station was Sebastian.

Sebastian Sallow.

The boy who was never up to any good, who taught you forbidden spells, who would go to the ends of the earth to save the people he loves. The boy who made your heart race faster than the fluttering wings of a fairy. Your year at Hogwarts was adventurous with all that you were up to on your own, but doing it with him- you felt like you could be with him for the rest of your life and never get bored.

He sent you one singular letter at the beginning of the summer, and that was only because you had sent him one first.

Dear Y/n,

Hope all is well, I was glad to receive word from you after your final battle with Ranrok. You are a hero as I always knew you were. I’m pleased to have contributed in whatever small part I might have played to your success.

To answer your question, I am as decent as I can be considering all that has passed. I have not received word from Anne since the incident, I can only hope she will reach out to me in the coming months. For now, due to your mercy, I shall pick up the remaining pieces here in Feldcroft.

Gratefully yours,

Sebastian Sallow

—

The Great Hall was bustling with students both new and returning. It was almost impossible to hear a person talking directly to you with how loud everyone's conversations were, it was a bit overstimulating, and luckily your mind was too preoccupied with searching for the familiar faces of your friends.

You withstood stares of awe and whispers as you passed, people didn’t shy away from pointing at you. It didn’t help your nerves but you had gotten accustomed to it from being the new girl going into Hogwarts fifth year.

“Natty!” You waved to your friend who was nodding along with what her mother was telling her. She made haste, when she was able to escape her mother's grasp, to where you stood by the fireplace next to the Slytherin table.

She gave you a wide smile, “Y/n, it is good to see you, my friend.”

“It is amazing to see you!” You let out a breath of relief, you felt as if you could finally relax. You held onto both of her hands as you said “Your mother is never separating us again.”

She laughed, “You speak too soon. I foresee many letters exchanged in our future.”

“Shh- don’t say that, it may come true,” You scold her playfully.

The sound of a utensil clinging against a golden chalice told you both that it was time for everyone to settle down.

“We’ll see each other in class,” You say giving her shoulder one last squeeze as you give her a hug.

You rush to the nearest empty spot, a fourth-year girl and another empty spot to your right. You settle down with your anxiety still on high, you noticed the familiar blonde hair and full grey eyes sitting across from you.

“Ominis, Hello.”

“Y/n?” His tone was confused.

“Oh, so it’s great to see you!” You mentally slapped yourself for the poor choice of words.

He speaks dryly, “I can feel your energy from here L/n, it would be best if you calm your enthusiasm, though I must admit it is nice to hear your voice.”

“My voice?” A deep resounding tune filled your ears, in the three months without him you can hear how much he’s grown. “How flattering Gaunt, I can’t say it is unexpected-”

He plants himself in the seat to your right and your heart stutters.

Your head slowly turns in his direction, and your eyes slightly widen. He glances at you once and does a double-take.

“Y/n?”

“Hello Sebastian,” You swallow your feelings at seeing him now. His features have matured, no longer baby-faced. His cheeks have defined, his jaw sharper, hazel eyes lighter, hair grown in an attractive way you didn’t know how to describe. He definitely grew taller, shoulders broadened.

You didn’t know how to react to his looks now, you had always found him attractive, from the moment you met him; his way with words, his charisma, had you in the palm of his hand. You couldn’t look at him now with that one glance, you were sure to melt.

There was no time for any other words to be exchanged as Professor Black began his introduction ceremony, sorting the first years, and beginning the feast.

The food appeared and you filled your plate, ignoring the very apparent presence next to you. He appeared to be doing the same. Ominis spoke to him and he would respond, he would converse with you, but you and Sebastian never asked each other a single question in the full-hour talk with Ominis.

“You never described how it was to live with Weasley, Y/n,” Ominis tilted his head at you.

Sebastian's fork stabbed his chicken a little too hard, it scraped the plate, making a short screech.

You side-eyed his plate and refocused on the question the girl who sat diagonal to you on Ominis’ left asked. Imelda had a quirk on her brow, and a smirk on her lips, she questioned you loud enough for the other fellow Slytherins to hear.

“Fraternizing with the enemy,” She tsked. “Didn’t take Slytherins own hero as a traitor.”

“Didn’t know the rivalry extended to after school,” You looked unbothered. “Summer with the Weasleys was fun, you should try it sometime Imelda. You know, having fun? It could loosen the broomstick up your ass.”

You took a bite of your food, and the brunette beside you coughed up a lung, even Ominis hid his chuckle behind a fist as the girl you had insulted was red-faced and sitting next to him. Imelda's friend let out their own giggles or show of amusement while Imelda glared at them.

The rest of the feast had calmed down after you had shut her down, you had survived. Sebastian wasted no time getting out of his seat, saying his ‘I’ll see you later’ to Ominis and exiting the Great Hall as it was official the feast was over.

You decided to stay behind and chat with Ominis instead of following his lead and leaving once you were finished with your food.

“Have you spoken with him?” Ominis asked you, keeping pace as he walked with you to the Slytherin common room.

“I sent him one letter at the beginning of the summer, he responded and that was that.”

“Hm, odd.”

“How odd?”

You climbed the steps in the grand pillar where all the portraits were placed.

“Just odd,” Ominis said simply. “He was very fond of you last year, It wasn’t presumed that he would discard your friendship with how much he valued you last year.”

Discard me? You thought.

“I didn’t think he discarded our friendship Ominis, I believe he just needed some space.”

“Forgive me, Y/n, I didn’t mean it like that-”

You cut him off, “No, no. I know how it seems and eventually he and I will have to discuss all that happened last year, tonight just isn’t the night.”

You and Ominis along with your other fellow Slytherins, shuffled into the common room, settling into the dorms. You opened the door to find three other girls in the room already, all of whom you were familiar with in some way.

Violet McDowell, you had her in Potions and Herbology last year, Grace Pinch-Smedley who you had helped retrieve her family’s astrolabe from the black lake, and Imelda, who huffed and continued her unpacking. It was clear she was still upset, you smiled at the other two girls.

Violet gave you a nod, she was always a quiet one and Grace greeted you with a bright smile of her own.

—

2 hours into lights out and you were still tossing and turning, your eyes would not shut no matter what you did, and you had half a mind to sneak into Professor Sharps' closet and steal a sleeping draught. You sighed and shoved the covers away, sliding on your slippers and going down the steps to the common room.

You wrapped the string to tie your robe together in case there were people still up.

Surprisingly it was empty, not a single soul in sight. The fire crackling was the only sound to be heard. Memories of the past flashed through your mind.

A year ago today was the first day at Hogwarts, already full of adventure, watching a person you just met get killed by a dragon. The thestrals appeared after being invisible the whole time and you already knew. Going into Gringotts, fighting off statues, learning you have traces of ancient magic in your blood, and surviving the attack from Ranrok by an inch.

Yet, the thought of going into the common room the morning after and facing your fellow students who had been studying at Hogwarts since they were 11, was more frightening. You had already come into the school being the first person who had been accepted into Hogwarts as a fifth year, having to catch up with people who had the knowledge you were just learning, then coming into the first-year sorting ceremony late because of the dragon incident that everyone somehow knew about.

This school year was sure to be interesting, you thought to yourself.

The first person you saw was Sebastian, pacing in front of the fireplace with a book in hand. He introduced himself kindly, his dimpled smile had your heart before you knew it.

And it was gone just like that.

Chapter Text

A sharp pain that came from your abdominal area woke you from your slumber. Your eyes opened wide to find Ominis standing over you from where you lay on the Slytherin common room couch, the fire still kindling from last night. He poked you again with his wand, and you smacked his hand away from you, you must have fallen asleep last night.

"Ominis," His name was a warning. You grumbled as you sat up straight wrapping your robe tighter around you, "Merlin, I'm up."

"Could have just said so, L/n," He kept his wand in his hand no longer pointing it at you.

"Could have just woken me up vocally." You retorted and saw the common room wasn't half as full as it was when everyone came back from the feast. Everyone must have gone to breakfast already.

"How did you know I was here?"

He shifted on his feet uncomfortably, "Sebastian saw you and notified me to wake you up."

"He couldn't have just told me himself?" Your eyes narrowed at the ground, thinking of what Ominis just told you.

"Don't bring into your lovers quarrel, I beg you," Was all he had responded with before leaving you.

You dressed yourself in your green robes, fixing the mess of hair and feeling the crick in your neck from sleeping on the couch. It was a familiar feeling from last year, after a full day of classes, hunting down poachers or fighting off goblins, not to mention when there was a trial to do for the keepers; the couch was the first comfiest thing in your eye-line. Now... not so much.

There were scattered open spots left, you took one of them, disappointed at not seeing Sebastian anywhere in the Great Hall. You filled the plate with your breakfast, and ate alone, listening to the random gossip and chatter. First-year girls fawning over second or third-year boys, other students excited about Quidditch being available now and who was going to try out, there were a rare few who you overheard talking about how you defeated Ranrok.

Your reputation proceeds you, first being the new girl entering 5th year, defeating a troll in Hogsmeade, being known to do favors for people who were convinced they couldn't do themselves a favor by just thinking things through. You were glad you could be useful and it made you well-liked, but it had come at the cost of people's unrealistic expectations and the younger student idolization of you.

Accomplishing all that you had as a 16-17-year-old last year was no easy feat, practically impossible, you would have said if you hadn't experienced it yourself. Even knowing that you felt a sense of guilt. Anyone would have been able to do what you did last year, there was no reason for people to treat you the way they did now.

Stuck in your own mind, you hadn't felt someone else in your vicinity. Hands had grasped your shoulders with a roar. The irony is a certain Gryffindor voicing out the word 'Roar' in your ear. The flash of ginger hair plopped beside you, sliding his hand to tame his wild hair back.

"Bloody hell, Garreth!" You almost jumped out of your seat. "You almost scared me out of my wits, asshole!"

He didn't give you the courtesy of hiding his laughter, full-on having a fit of giggles, red-faced and all. You glared at him, sitting and watching unamused.

"Are you done?"

"Not nearly," He held a cheery smile. "What's got you all pensive?"

"Wouldn't you like to know?" you sighed and took a bit of your breakfast.

"My grumpy little Y/n/n," He ruffled your hair. You shoved his hand away from you, "Now I'm wondering if I should ask you what I came here for or just wait it out for when you're in a better mood."

"You've already disturbed my peace, might as well get on with it," You said with a full mouth.

He leaned a little closer, "Depending on what your schedule looks like at the end of the week, I was thinking we could get a group and hit up Hogsmeade."

You paused your chewing and thought of your schedule, knowing Friday, you only had one class mid-morning. "I have double Defense against the Dark Arts in the morning but I'm free the rest of the day. I'll tell Nat and Poppy- whenever I see them."

"Already done," The same cheeky smile adorned with his freckles made you hold in the urge to pinch his cheeks. You were grateful for Garreth's friendship despite how annoying he could be sometimes.

"Who are you inviting?" You asked him suspiciously. Hoping he wasn't inviting his idiot friends, although it would be fair considering he invited two of yours (did it count if they were mutual?)

He shook his head, "Nope, not getting you in a worse mood. Now, up you go, we have class to attend and it's my favorite of the day."

He flicked your shoulder twice and you groaned, his potions were going to be the school's downfall, everyone you know is just waiting for the day.

"How do you even know my schedule?"He gave you a knowing look. You coughed mockingly, "Stalker."

—

Walking into the classroom you recognized plenty of faces, most from your house and several others from the rival Gryffindor house and a sprinkle of Ravenclaws. You saw Sebastian with Samantha Dale. Garreth wrapped his arm around your shoulder and pulled you close, "Now, Y/n/n I know you usually sit with your other buddies but I was thinking this year you could join me at my table."

"Absolutely not, Garreth, no," You unwrapped his arm and made your way to your old spot. Unfortunately is was next to Sebastian who suddenly became mute in your presence.

"What could have been, Y/n, what could have been," He held his hand to chest in mock hurt. You had a small smile at Garreth's silliness.

The door to Professor Sharps storage room opened and there he stood giving the room a quick once over before sighing and walking to his desk, "Good Morning everyone. I see we have a couple more students missing, we shall give them a few more minutes to arrive before we'll begin. Try not to be too loud in your conversations, you're in class not your social hour."

Samatha immediately faced you, squealing in delight "You and Garreth Weasley?"

Your eyes grew wide, "What?"

"He walked in with you, his arm you and all, you spent the summer at his family home I heard." She leaned forward with her head in her hands, "You know I'm not one for gossip with much more interesting things to talk about- I'm just curious."

"I-I did," You didn't know how news could travel so fast, the rain had just arrived yesterday. You felt his stare from where he was standing but you didn't look to meet his eyes, "We're not together if that is what you're implying."

"Oh," She corrected her posture. "I don't know what people are making such a fuss about then."

You didn't realize people were making a fuss about you and Garreth or that people knew you had spent time the summer with him. You didn't care, there was nothing to hide about it, however if they were making assumptions about your friendship with him maybe you needed to care more. Is this why Sebastian isn't talking to you?

A couple of more students joined the class which prompted Professor Sharp to start the lesson.

"First off, you should all know that while we are brewing potions we will be reviewing Golpalotts Third Law, I will not be explaining to you what that is at the moment so put your hand down Mr. Cobblepott," A gryffindor two tables down from yours slowly put their hand down at Professor Sharps command. "Be prepared to write an essay on Everlasting Elixirs using your 'Advanced Potion-Making' textbook, which you are all free to line up and grab one at this moment- keep it in mind and study for when the times comes there will be no confusion."

There were groans and eye rolls throughout the class that Professor Sharp paid no mind to, each table took their turn lining up behind the previous tables line and grabbing the blue hardcover book. Your table was the last to go and by the time the three of you got there, there were two books left and Samantha had just grabbed one.

You and Sebastian stood there, you weren't surprised to see he had grabbed the last one. You mentally prepared yourself to ask Professor Sharp if he had any extra books left when Sebastian's hand extended to you. For the first time you met his eye in question, he simply handed it to you.

Your hands brushed together once before he snatched his hand away, walking back to your shared table. Your brows furrowed in confusion for a second and you walked back hurriedly noticing everyone had been waiting for you so Professor Sharp could tell you all what you would be working on.

The same hardcover blue book as yours 'Advanced Potion-Making' was in front of Sebastian, how the hell did he get a copy if he gave you the last one?

"Today we'll be learning an Elixir to Induce Euphoria, not to be used lightly," Professor Sharp warned. "I have already placed all the ingredients that you will need in the area of your cauldron to avoid antics so early in the morning and in the school year."

His tone was obvious he was not up for any foolishness, specifically from Garreth, that much was clear.

"Page 53 is where the instructions are, come to my desk if you have any questions."

The class went by without a hitch, with Professor Sharps preventing you all from grabbing all the materials, not even Garreth could mess up the potion. The Elixir to Induce Euphoria was a dangerous potion to brew and no doubt there were a couple of people in there that were curious to try it.

You were curious as to how Sebastian acquired the textbook when there wasn't any left and he hadn't asked the Professor. You wanted to ask him but he seemed so focused on brewing the potion, you didn't want to disrupt him though you were highly tempted to.

Professor Sharp called you all up in order and did a check of the Elixir grading you all on it and dismissing the class.

You were free till lunch where you sat with Ominis, and Sebastian, and chatted with Imelda who got over your comment from yesterday. Sebastian gave you a curt nod but didn't pay you much attention at all, not even during the next two classes you had together.

So far on just today you had Potions, Herbology, and Defense the Dark Arts, all your classes for Monday, and not a word was spared for you.

Chapter Text

The passing week went by as soon as it started with most- if not all your classes with the boy who was keen to avoid you for all of eternity it seems. Every attempt to talk to him was shut down with him quickly walking away in the opposite direction or talking to one of your classmates, finding any and every excuse to seem too busy to talk.

It hurt, you didn’t know what you did wrong, as far as you knew with the last exchange of letters, everything should be fine. He was getting along with Ominis despite the fact that you were the one who convinced him not to turn Sebastian in. Being a part of someone’s life, dueling side-by-side in life-risking situations, it’s almost impossible not to grow feelings.

You shared moments that one would dare call ‘bonding time’, fighting off all kinds of monstrosities, helping him find a cure for Anne no matter how drastic. You were his support when his own best friend wasn’t, and in a way he became yours. Poppy and Natty aside, he became a huge part of your life at Hogwarts, learning the secrets of your shared house (made you feel like you had a special connection with him), and especially out of Hogwarts with all the dangerous situations you both got involved in.

You foolishly thought he shared the same sentiment.

You felt betrayed, betrayed, and angry. You thought you were giving him space to heal, thinking you needed to heal on your own as well, you didn’t think you were giving Sebastian the perfect excuse to disappear on you.

When you walked into the Defense against the Dark Arts classroom on Friday morning, you were determined to get answers. He would speak to you whether he wanted to or not, one conversation was all you needed.

“Today I will be introducing the topic of Nonverbal Spells,” Professor Hecat announced to the class as soon as everyone had arrived.

The only familiar faces are Sebastian (of course, You thought), Leander Prewitt, and Cressida Blume.

Leander raised his hand, “But Professor, I thought we were going to continue our lesson on Dementors.”

Last class, Professor Hecat gave a lecture on the soul-sucking wraiths, their strengths, what they feed off of, and the charm that repels them. It was expected that you would be learning how to cast a patronus but she had other plans.

“I can understand that some of you are excited to produce a patronus charm,” She walked around the class and placed her hand on his shoulder as she passed him. “However it is more difficult than it may seem, Non-verbal spells and counter spells are just as exciting, Mr. Prewitt.”

“ Now, I would like for you all to divide into pairs, one partner will attempt to jinx the other without speaking. The other will attempt to repel the jinx in equal silence.”

You searched the room with your eyes dreading pairing with literally anyone other than Sebastian, due to the current status of your friendship, your choice would be either one of the Gryffindors that you were sort of acquaintances with.

“Mr. Sallow, I’d like for you to be paired with Ms. L/n,” Professor Hecat declares and motions for the two of you to take up an open spot on the floor. It looked like Cressida was headed for Sebastian and Leander was headed towards you. “Both of you are my most skilled students, it would do you both well to get a feel for Non-verbals, that way shall I need any assistance going further, you two will be more than capable.”

Sebastian look as if he wanted to protest but didn’t, you on the other hand were thanking Merlin for the opportunity, perhaps this lesson will be able to break the silence between you. Ironically.

“Sebastian, Why don’t you start?” The older woman suggested. “Y/n, try your best to block him. I’ll be walking around the room, checking everyone’s progress.”

You and Sebastian stood facing each other, 5 feet apart as everyone else was. There was no humor in his gaze as there normally was, you had gotten used to his jokes, the flirty comments that suggested more than there actually was between the two of you. When it was just the two of you on a quest, he had an easygoing manner that made fighting off villains, easier.

Now, in class, the intent in his gaze, was nowhere near humorous as he focused on the conjuration of a spell to attack you with.

You kept your ground, waiting for the blow, not sure what to expect from him. Your thoughts were soon answered as several moments passed and the knockback jinx sent you to the floor.

“Are you even trying?” Sebastian retorted, as you lifted yourself off the ground, nothing you haven’t dealt with before. The comment though, reminded you of the argument you had with him last year when he called you ignorant after finding out you were in league with Lodgok.

Oh, Lodgok. You shook the memory of the goblin who had been a victim of his own brother's wrath and how you wished you would’ve been able to defeat Ranrok before it was too late.

Another blast sent your way, you scowled dusting yourself off, once again standing from the floor.

“I’m fine Sebastian, thank you for asking,” You sighed and focused harder this time. You widened your stance, now that you knew what to prepare for, you felt the magical aura rise, and as you felt the vibration in your wand, with the perfect timing you blocked the spell with your wand. “My turn.”

You mentally think of the spell you wanted to use, nothing came to mind except for the sharp sting of his words.

His eyes narrowed for a second before going back to normal, steadying his stance to focus as you did before.

You willed a spell, any spell to counter his previous moves, the feeling of magic in your veins you wanted a stinging jinx one that would hurt him. A dull hum sang in the back of your head, familiar and consuming.

You tried to refocus on the stinging jinx, or a knockback spell, anything to bubble up your ancient magic. You winced as your wand sputtered out red, green, and purple sparks.

Sebastian had a hand on his hip, his head tilted as he observed you.

“Do you mind?” You shot at him, you felt the heat rise from your neck at the embarrassment.

“Not at all,” He smirked. You wished you could conjure something, anything to wipe the amusement of your failure off of his face. You weren’t used to not being good at something, it had been a long time since you felt a failure at the hands of something magical.

You sighed and attempted to will a single spell into your wand without saying a word, and every time, you felt the icy blue glow that came from your veins.

You both settled on him practicing jinxing you and you, blocking them. At the least, you were successful in doing that, but the glow from inside you never faltered, it was like it was absorbing all the power sent your way.

Professor Hecat dismissed the class after the second hour, encouraging you and your classmates to keep practicing and to begin thinking of one of your happiest memories, listing them if you had to, and turn in a paper on why it was your happiest memory for homework.

Leaving the Defense against the Dark Arts classroom, you searched for Sebastian, in hopes of being able to tell him and thing or two about his treatment of you this past week.

Once again, he was gone before you could reach him.

~~~

The dorm was empty when you got there.

You got dressed into your usual brown pants, white blouse, and blue corset with a belt around your waist, lacing up your almost knee-high boots. It reminded you of the adventures you used to go on, making you reminisce, despite the dangerous feats you had to admit you missed it.

You descended the steps of the girl's dormitory and into the common room when you caught sight of Ominis who was already moving toward you.

“Hello, Y/n.”

“Hi,” You greeted him, placing a hand on his shoulder so he would know where you were.

“Have you spoken to him?”

You didn’t need him to specify who ‘him’ was, unfortunately, what happened just 30 minutes ago left a bitter taste in your mouth.

“Not exactly…”

“He was in quite a mood in the Undercroft,” He exhaled. “I was simply minding my business when I hear the gate shut and he begins casting spells like a madman.”

You smile to yourself fondly at knowing Ominis ‘minding his own business’ actually meant taking a nap. Sebastian’s behavior was a surprise, in fact, you knew that is what he chose to do with his free time, especially when letting off steam but you couldn’t find yourself to care at the moment.

“I’m sorry to hear that he disturbed your peace Ominis, but he was in no mood to speak with me, nor I him for that matter. I tried to catch up with him after class, to tell him a piece of my mind- he’ll no doubt tell you about it when he’s ready- and he was gone.”

Ominis hummed in thought, you glanced at the clock, noticing it was almost lunchtime. You and the others had agreed to go to the three broomsticks for lunch, so you would all have the rest of the day to walk around and shop before dark.

“Garreth and I are going to Hogsmeade with a group if you’d like to join?”

“That’s alright, I should be checking on Sebastian, see if I can get him to stop being… well him.”

“Okay, next time then.”

He bowed his head as he used his wand to guide him to the boy’s dormitories. You climbed the stairs up and out of the common room, hearing the sound of the cement snake slither into an arch, you walk to the great hall entrance where you saw Garreth pacing around.

You cast the disillusionment charm, creeping up behind him and shouting in his ear. He jumped and screamed, it was a high-pitched one that echoed in the moderately full hall.

He clutched his chest, “You!”

You laughed heartily at his expression, “That was for yesterday. What are you doing out here for?”

“Well, meanie.” He lightly pushed you, “I thought of waiting for you in front of the Slytherin door like a gentleman but… you know, Gryffindor.”

“Aw, Garreth are you scared of a couple of Slytherins?”

He glared at you playfully, “Shut up.”

Footsteps, loud and heavy came closer from running. “Wait!”

Imelda slowed to a jog, stopping once in front of you and Garreth.

“I’m coming with you.”

You raised a brow in suspicion, “Really?”

“Ugh, don’t act so surprised Y/n, you said I didn’t know how to have fun.”

“So, you’re willingly coming with us?”

She shot you a look, weaving between the two of you, opening the Great hall doors and holding it open for you. “Well?”

You looked over at Garreth who shrugged. “You’re that desperate to prove me wrong.”

You and Garreth walk alongside Imelda, seeing Poppy and Natty sitting by the fountain with Leander and Nellie.

“I can be fun, I consider Quidditch fun, not my fault you lot can’t feel the greatness of winning. But since this is what you losers consider fun, I’ll try it.”

“Okay,” You responded simply. The sight of Leander trying and failing at flirting with Poppy makes you cringe. “Why’d you invite him?”

Garreth’s face held something cold, something you’d never seen from him, no matter what the circumstance. “He invited himself.”

“Let’s how this goes then,” You braced yourself for Leander's overbearing presence.

Natty and Poppy greeted you with a hug, and smiles for Imelda, Poppy gave Garreth a shy wave. One he returned with equal warmth in his cheeky grin.

~~~

The three broomsticks were busy as per usual so seating was a bit complicated but once a couple of people left, the boys who had let you girls take the available seats first (much to Leander's dismay), they were able to sit.

Lunch made by Sirona was arguably one of the best meals you’ve ever eaten, the time flew by with your friends, and Leander made more than a few distasteful jokes but nothing that could’ve ruined the good vibes.

You all got to catch up, sharing stories on what you were all up to during the summer.

Poppy helped her grandmother with her research on unicorn blood and its benefits, Natty went back to Matabeleland with her mother but only for a short period of time because of safety, you and Garreth told them about how it was to live together.

You both confessed to having a bit of a fling… mouths were left open, and jaws dropped. Imelda smugly said she called it.

“It was too weird, he’s like a brother now,” You said. “It was only for a month and a half towards the end of summer.”

“A month and a half?” Leander exclaimed.

“Who broke up with who?” Natty asked.

“It was mutual,” Garreth answered. “And gee thanks, Y/n/n.”

You rolled your eyes, knowing why you both decided to break up with each other, it was fun and a nice distraction. You had always found Garreth attractive and apparently so did he, but your heart belonged to Sebastian and he belonged to an unknown girl. The only time Garreth made a mature decision, it was easy to confuse the two when you both aching for other people.

You both knew that though your relationship could have continued, as a couple, you didn’t have the spark.

You chose to leave out the romantic feelings for other people.

“Now that I know red hair is your type-” Leander began.

“Leander!” Nellie smacked the boy behind the head.

She then, thankfully, changed the subject to her new hobby which sounded all kinds of risky. A new sport apparently, called rock climbing, she loved all things that gave her a thrill. Only a handful of people knew how to do it in the world, safely, that is.

All in all, a brilliant time, you had all agreed to do this every other week, just send an owl if you couldn’t make it. The rest of the night was spent strolling around Hogsmeade, looking at all the new in-season merchandise.

~~~

You and Imelda stumbled into the common room, tripping over yourselves and giggling. She took Quidditch too seriously, but other than being desperately passionate about the sport, she was a nice hang. She proved as much throughout your time, hardly being as stuck up as she normally was for literally everything.

Your cheeks hurt from smiling so much, it had been a while since you felt this light.

That was, until she said goodnight, noticing how quiet you got. You stood stunned at Sebastian sitting in his usual armchair in front of the fire, book in hand, he stared at you as you stared at him.

Seconds, minutes, passed, and he broke the silent staring contest going back to his book. You strolled passed him, pretending what passed between you, never happened. 

Chapter Text

If you weren't thinking about all that you have done, the goblins and poachers you've killed, the monsters you've faced, the friends you've lost; you were dreaming of them.

Every night since the final one where you defeated Ranrok, nightmares have plagued your mind.

It started with you jolting awake in the night, with a sweat-soaked bed, you'd forego the rest of your sleep to clean your linens.

You were, after all, staying as a guest at the Weasley home. Magic outside of Hogwarts is strictly forbidden when you are under the age of 17, therefore you had to do it the old-fashioned way. Naturally, you were a rule breaker, however, you wanted to show some modicum of respect considering the family with which you stayed is that of the Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts.

The startled sweats became increased heart palpitations that left you in bed unable to move an arm, a sort of paralysis had overcome you, your eyes stuck closed. That soon became screams and shouts and tears that would only calm when you saw the light of dawn peak through the curtains.

Unfortunately, you were in a room with several of Matilda Weasley's other nieces and nephews, thank Merlin they could sleep through a tornado, the only one whose sleep habits did not benefit them was Garreth. He was always awake, somehow always having energy despite the lack of sleep, formulating new potions.

His cheery attitude was helpful, it was odd at first, never being close to him in Hogwarts but then becoming so close he would lay in the opposite direction of you, his feet to your head and yours to his so that you would feel that there was another person present.

Until he concocted a calming draught one night out of random, and one became a ritual nightly. For once, a potion he wouldn't mess up. You could've made it yourself but he insisted. 

A month into 6th year at Hogwarts and he never failed to owl you one, or hand you one secretly in class or in the halls.

What you hadn't been able to do was wrangle your magic, the same magic powerful enough to kill anyone- within a 12-foot radius of you with a single blast.

It came at random, sometimes when you were severely overwhelmed. You supposed it had been easier to 'control' last year because you had some sort of mentor, a person you were able to talk to that you trusted to take care of you. That person was now dead, and you have no one.

The keepers were untrustworthy, to say the least, it was understandable what they did to Isidora, but who was to say they wouldn't assume the worst of you?

They were portraits, is what you tried to remind yourself, but they were keepers- keepers of all kinds of secrets, who knew what kind of fail-safes they must have in case they could've predicted a person like Isidora would come around.

You couldn't trust a soul.

Garreth knew of the nightmares, but your powers would scare anyone, hell they scared you.

You resorted to moving the animals from your original vivarium in the room of requirement to the grasslands vivarium in order to release the surges of power that had formed over weeks of keeping up with schoolwork.

Between schoolwork, the social life that you now had thanks to no more adventures, wondering where it all went wrong Sebastian, and taking care of your beast on top of learning to forget your regrets... Your ancient magic had more than enough fuel for you to burst.

And so you did, at least once a week, moving your beasts back and forth between vivariums so as not to hurt them.

You ended up spending more and more time in your room of requirement than you did in your own dorm, the room had created a bedroom for you. A cozy King sized bed with silky green covers and a fluffed comforter, in a 6 corner round room solely for sleeping.

You were able to do all but that, whenever he was around- Deek would wake you from your nightmares and make you a comforting drink for your nerves, and distract you with gossip.

He hears all that goes on in Hogwarts, with teachers, students, anyone. As a house-elf no one acknowledges him and people feel they can speak freely with the elves around and you felt lucky that Deek trusted you enough to fill you in. He was surprisingly quite the busybody.

With that though, you had begged him not to tell Professor Weasley of your nightmares. 

~~~

When October came around Quidditch tryouts were starting up, which Imelda had never failed to mention anytime she was around you, you weren't in the least bit interested.

You had too much going on, flying was useful when getting from point A to B but it wasn't your favorite thing in the world though you were talented, according to her. You would enjoy Quidditch more on the sidelines.

On another note, Sebastian fucking Sallow.

If he wasn't ignoring you in the many classes you had together, the one class where you didn't have anyone else, was the one you were forcibly paired with him. And only in that class will he deign to speak to you with rude remarks and snippy comments, it exhausted you.

A flash flew past your ear and at the closed classroom door, you were Defense against the Dark Arts, at least 30 minutes at the end of class was dedicated to practicing Non-verbals.

"Are you out of your mind?" You almost shrieked at him, "That almost stung me."

"You're out of your mind, maybe if you had been you'd be able to pay attention."

"Don't tell me what to do."

"Well if you would keep up then I wouldn't have to."

You hated him, you hated that stupid smirk he held on his face, his contradictory tone, him. Ire burned throughout you and if you truly wanted to end him, he would've been six feet deep, he didn't know the favor you were doing him.

~~~

You needed to let off some steam, the room of requirement wasn't cutting it, you had made a commitment to the Headmaster and Professor Weasley to stay out of trouble this year. It was the only reason why you had kept within the castle walls for so long, it had been too long, and now you were itching for a fight.

You wandered into the forbidden forest on the hunt for poacher camps, Ashwinders, and any sign of a dark wizard that you could take down. It was past dusk, lights out would be soon and you regretted not sneaking out of the room after the Slytherin girl's dormitory check done by the head girl.

One problem at a time, you heard fighting by the old troll lair you cleared out last year looking for bubotubers. It appears the poachers had reinhabited the area, two men patrolled the area, possibly scouting out to see if there were more of whoever they were fighting.

Streaming, loud and painful, pure agony was heard, you crouched with the disillusionment charm covering you, easing your way behind the men and casting Petrificus Totalus on them both without bringing on any unwanted attention.

You did the same with the others around the camp but there were about 10-11 left. You observed as they fought amongst each other, your eyes wild in confusion, six of them wore masks that looked like a human skull. You couldn't make out any distinct features that you could use to identify them. The black cloaks they wore made them look like living Dementors.

They had the five remaining Ashwinders on their knees, wands inches away from them, on the ground.

What in Merlin's name was this?

They only targeted two out of the five, which had you even more perplexed. So caught up in what was going on in front of you, you let your guard down, you didn't sense someone coming up from behind you.

They pulled you up from your crouched location behind a couple of bushes and a tree, the disillusionment charm disappearing. The person, it felt like a man, shoved you onto the ground. You rolled onto your back just in time as he pointed his wand at you.

"Expelliar-"

"Depulso!" You spoke clearly. Your voice definitely alerted the rest of them, and though the Askwinder would usually jump at the chance to attack you on sight, they picked up their wands and fled.

Two of the masked figures, cast the killing curse on two of the Ashwinders they were targeting before.

You were surrounded, 7 against 1. This was not going to end well, you weren't sure yet for who.

Before you could think twice, with intention; you cast the Imperio curse on one of them, ordering them to attack their fellow whatever they called themselves.

"Protego!" You used the shield as blasts from all sides of you came your way, you ducked and rolled coming up behind one, "Petrificus Totalus."

One down six more to go, you blocked the spells and shot back some of your own, "Levioso, Accio, Descendo." You heard a crack in their neck, you sent a few casts before you had them unmoving on the ground.

Part of you thought about using the Killing curse to speed up this process and help you to not die, kill, or be killed and all that- but you couldn't, you wouldn't. Only in dire situations would you use it, and this wasn't one... yet.

You blocked and shielded, not able to get another hit in. Whoever the two you took down must have been the weaker ones of the group because as you fought the remaining four, they moved fluidly as they attacked you with their magic.

Never faltering, they were experienced, that much was obvious- but their magic felt wrong. It felt old almost ancient- like yours but darker. Like every defensive spell cast was a curse.

You felt yourself getting tired, they were strong and you weren't in the shape you were when you did this every other day.

"Diffindo!"

You felt the cuts in your back, you cried out and mistakenly clutched your back, stumbling forward. The others took their chance-

"Accio."

You practically flew to the one who called upon you, "Descendo," You slammed onto the ground.

Tears stung your eyes as that same person kicked you in your stomach and picked you up from the root of your hair, your chest rose and fell in what you didn't want to admit was fear. You tried looking through the small eyes of the mask to tell the color but they tilted your head to the sky.

"She smells like one of them," He spat out the last word in disgust. He brought you closer and sniffed you, "Definitely one of them."

He shoved you back onto the ground, you sneered at him and your head hit a rock on the ground. You grimaced and touched the back of your head, you felt the wetness of what you could only guess was blood.

You only had one thing left to do, you had felt it bubble beneath you helping you fight them off, it gave you the slightest bit of encouragement as you struggled to pick yourself up.

"We should kill her off now!" One of them from your right said.

You were done playing these games, you weakly lifted your wand and the Ancient Magic sang. Your body was working on autopilot, without a word you lifted the woman who said they should kill you and slammed her body to the ground, picking her up and burying her head into the earth repeatedly.

You tilted your head to the man who roughly handled you, and with a flick of your wand, he exploded.

The three that were left, had shouted 'Avada Kedavra' but it didn't reach your magic had blasted them yards away from you and into the woods.

You wanted to collapse right then and there, with the last bit of energy you could muster, you trudged along the path to the nearest floo flame, straight to the Slytherin Common room.

You didn't want to think about how many more people you killed, or that you just exposed your biggest secret to an unknown group of people who even Ashwinders ran from. You didn't care about how dirty you were, or the blood that stained your clothes.

You descended the steps you had to go down to officially be in the Common Room, as you reached the final step, you felt your wand slip out of your hand and clatter to the floor. Soon, your body would join it.

You didn't make it to the couch when you felt your world shut down, you only felt your legs being lifted off the ground, strong arms supporting you from your waist. Your eyes could barely open but you caught a glimpse of chestnut brown hair and that you were being carried bridal style before being laid on the familiar couch.

Whispers were heard, a bottle being brought to your lips, and a part of your brain hoped you weren't getting poisoned. As you drank, you felt your wounds being healed and the ache in your body lift. Wiggenweld Potion. 

You were on your back, your left hand on your stomach and your right hung from the couch, whoever had settled you onto your usual spot brought the hand that was off the couch and pressed their lips onto the back of it. Then settled it along with your left.

Chapter Text

Multicolored puffskeins were at your feet, bouncing on your legs and vying for your attention, much like the rest of the beasts in the forest vivarium. You spent your Thursday afternoon in the Room of Requirement after a frustrating class on Ancient Runes, at this point, you didn't know why you had signed up for the bloody class. You overestimated your ability to pay attention, thinking that your slight interest in the subject would mean you would actually listen to the droning of the Professor.

The time you spent with your beasts as a form of procrastination was therapeutic, alas, your time was ending and you would have to do your homework for potions soon.

You fed and pet every single one of the exotic creatures to the point where you had feathers and fur all over you. It wasn't until Deek had emerged from the entrance to tell you that you had a letter, that you let out a heavy breath and decided to stop lingering.

With your final goodbyes to your adorable animals, you stepped through the portal back to the large room where the house elf handed you the letter. 

Y/n,

Whenever you are available, I would like to study with you in the Undercroft. I will be skipping dinner waiting for your arrival.

Ominis

Interesting...

You and Ominis were on speaking terms, more than just classmates but not exactly besties on the level that he and Sebastian were on. It pleased you to know that he wanted to hang out, officially, that is.

The two of you had a bit of a rough start in the beginning, especially with the way you enabled Sebastian at times with his quest to save Anne, you wouldn't have and didn't blame him for his response to everything that went down so you were happy to refresh the page and start anew.

You changed into a different set of robes and sprayed yourself with your floral-scented perfume to hide the stench of the animals you spent half the day with.

~~~

"Knock knock," You voiced out into the secret room as the metal gates to the Undercroft shut with a clamber.

"Y/n?" Ominis said on a wooden desk he must have conjured since it wasn't there before.

"I must say I was quite surprised to receive your owl, Omi," You walked over to him and settled your writing tools for the essay you were going to force yourself to work on.

His eyes narrowed at the nickname.

"Right, that was weird," You cringed and slid into the seat across from him. "Sorry, wanted to try it out."

"Not your best, I must say," His lips quirked upward. "Shall we get started?"

"We shall," You unrolled the scroll of parchment and your advanced potions textbook. "What are you working on?"

"Practice test for Charms, Professor Ronen just assigned it today but I want to get it done as soon as possible, who knows when the man will spring up his practice quiz."

You were familiar with Professor Ronen and his spontaneity, always the one to make sure his students were actually paying attention in his class, he would give you a practice exam to review and give you all homework credit for it but it was also a warning for his pop quizzes he frequently liked to give.

"Oh! I have mine with me if you'd like to just copy off mine and study later?" You offered. You brought your satchel with all the books of assignments you have and have not completed.

Ominis appeared thoughtful and declined, "That's alright, I prefer to study the material given to me actually. It was kind of you to offer."

"Not at all," You smiled at the fact that you were getting to know little details like this about Ominis.

~~~

A full hour of work, the Undercroft echoed with the scribbles of your quills on parchment and the turning of textbook pages. Not at all as awkward as you thought it was going to be when you were heading over here.

The only times you would talk to Ominis were when you were both surrounded by people, in the Great Hall or in class, the both of you gravitated toward each other in a room full of classmates who hadn't been through the same experiences and grief- all thanks to Sebastian.

You thought that being alone with him without Sebastian's impending doom looming over the both of you, would be tense but it hasn't been.

Ominis worked on his assignment, while you worked on yours- 12 inches of parchment on Everlasting Elixirs. It was due next week Monday and you knew that you had to get started on it somehow if not, by the time you actually put the effort in, it would take you til the morning of the due date to finish.

That was stress you did not need when you were already worried about sodding Ancient Runes class.

"Is something the matter, Y/n?" Ominis broke the silence.

"W- Yes, I am." You were surprised by the question, "Do I not seem alright?"

"You're very quiet, well you are quiet but you're thinking so much, I can almost hear it." He chuckled lightly as he said it. "As a matter of fact, you've been quite pensive these past few weeks."

"Have I?"

"I'm blind Y/n, that does not mean that I do not notice such things." He sits up straighter, "Your other friends may not have seen it, that lot has always been more extroverted but so were you, last year. Not as much but still I can feel it when I'm around you, it's as if you're less enthused."

You rolled your eyes with a smile, he cared. It was a little bit of a shock to know that he did but it warmed your heart.

"I have a confession to make," He started. 

"Do tell," You placed your elbows on the table and leaned in, curiously awaiting.

"You mustn't tell anyone," He says with a stern tone. "Not even Sebastian."

You snorted in an unladylike manner, "Done."

He inhales, and confesses, "I'm a legilimens."

Your face contorted in confusion, your silence gave it away before you had to ask what that was. You had only been a part of the Wizarding world for a school year, you didn't know much besides what you had encountered and learned about last year.

"It's a person who can read the thoughts of others, I can look into your mind and find your deepest memories, even read your thoughts at present if I wanted to."

"Are you trying to tell me that you read my mind?" You didn't know how you felt about that. "That's what all the concern is about."

"I- Well, no. I wasn't lying when I said I felt the way your energy has changed. It's not something I can control or practice often, though I should."

"Is it something that you learned or were you born with it?" Had he always been able to do that and just now said something because he heard something that drew him to be worried?

"Wizards and Witches can learn and master it but for me, it was a trait passed down from my ancestor, I choose not to use the ability," His voice was tight as he explained. "Your thoughts were loud, I didn't mean to intrude, I'm telling you this because I want to trust you. I want you to trust me as well. I know you and Sebastian are still not speaking-"

"I was wondering when you were going to bring him up," You sighed. "How is he, by the way? Since we're on the subject."

"He's Sebastian, complicated and stubborn" He answered. "This was never about him, point is, I've noticed over the course of a few weeks that you haven't been yourself and was wondering if there was anything I can do to assist."

You crossed your arms and leaned on the back of your chair, "While I appreciate the concern, I am quite alright, Ominis."

"You know, Sebastian and Anne have been a better family to me than my actual blood. They had no hate in their hearts, they held no judgment on me and the beliefs of my family." He cleared his throat, "I was gutted at what had happened to Anne and the path that Sebastian took to try and save her. That drove a wedge between him and me, as you've witnessed. Dark magic is not something I could ever resort to, you know this, ever. Not even for someone I consider a brother, so trust me when I say I meant no offense when I heard your thoughts."

"I know, Ominis," You said in a light tone to ease his mind. You weren't upset at him for accidentally reading your mind, it caught you off-guard and you were just grateful you weren't thinking something embarrassing.

"So your parents are racist," you joked to ease the tension. "To be expected with the whole Slytherin thing, pureblood supremacy and all that, obviously not your thing." 

"A never-ending fight," He exhaled. "I never asked- not that it matters but where are you from?"

"I'm muggle-born," You shrugged. "I had shown signs of having some magical ability when I was a child but my parents were visibly uncomfortable whenever I showed signs so I just held it in, kind of trained myself to ignore the urges, and even went to a muggle primary and secondary school."

His eyebrows quirked at the information, how different the two of you are.

You continued, "It got to the point where I just couldn't hold it anymore and everything just burst out of me. At the worst time, might I add, in the middle of the class- everyone fell out of their desks. I was nervous for a presentation and everyone was overwhelming me with questions, With all the build-up from never being released, I just exploded. Freaked my parents out, by some miracle of fate, I heard a pair of wizards buzzing on about Hogwarts and so I wrote a letter to Professor Black and here I am."

Ominis blinked, processing the information, "Fate was right to bring you here. I'm not my parents but just be glad you're in Slytherin, that's the only prejudice I will take part in though you do spend a great amount of time with Gryffindors, I'm not so sure the sorting hat made the right choice."

You reach over the table and push his shoulder lightly, he laughed breathlessly in his seat.

"I'll have you know, a Gryffindor could never get out of the skirmishes I have, and that's all thanks to my cunning." 

"Or sheer luck," He murmured. 

You tossed your quill at his chest, "Oh, stuff it."

Chapter Text

"Have you heard all the fourth-year girls talk about the new sixth year?" The sweet tune of your designated Hufflepuff sings as she sits in the chair beside you.

"New sixth year?"

Imelda groans, "Insufferable the lot of them, honestly."

"He's quite-" Poppy hesitates, thinking a little too much before she speaks, "attractive. I can see the appeal."

"Do you fancy him?" You never heard the girl compliment a member of the male species before.

She stutters, "No! Of course not, simply pointing out what everyone else sees."

You try to recall a memory of meeting the new sixth-year boy, "I haven't seen him."

"L/n, he is literally in our Ancient Runes class," Imelda looks up from picking her nails in boredom.

"Who is?" Garreth pulls a chair from a table nearby and seats himself between you and Poppy after setting the drinks he brought with him. Leander followed in tow with three more and a pumpkin pasty served on a plate.

Garreth slid a butterbeer to Poppy first and kept his to himself, Leander then distributed the rest of the drinks to you and Imelda. He mistakenly handed you the pumpkin pasty to which you scrunched your nose and set it in front of Imelda.

Imelda narrows her eyes, "Why are you looking at my desert like that?"

"She hates pumpkin," Garreth answers for you.

"Blasphemy!" She picks up the fork and cuts into it. "Almost as blasphemous as you not trying out for quidditch."

After a full month of attempting to persuade you to try out for the Quidditch team, Imelda had given up.

"If we lose because of your inconsideration, I will hold a grudge." Imelda points her fork at you threateningly.

"Boy, does she," Leander who had been uncharacteristically quiet had spoken only to be immediately glared at by her.

"I didn't need your confirmation, Prewitt."

Your eyes widen in amusement at the pair, they were always at each other's throat, increasingly so because of the upcoming season. Leander was a part of the Gryffindor Quidditch team and Imelda was a part of the opposing team, She was as competitive as it got and he was a smart ass, and not in a clever way... It made for an interesting pair.

Very 'diverse' from the words of Sirona who was surprised at the large groups you came with on the Fridays you all agreed to. It was always you, Garreth, and Poppy. Until the Quidditch season officially started; Imelda joined, Natty (whenever her mom allowed her), Nellie, Leander (who Garreth felt guilty if he didn't invite him), Amit, Everett, and Samatha.

You invited Ominis, but he had chosen to 'detach himself from the tomfoolery' as he said. You knew it was partly an excuse not to leave Sebastian alone.

It was always whoever was available to come that week and it was always a different kind of fun that you enjoyed, it helped keep your mind off of the heavy things on your mind.

Poppy gasped and stared at the door, glancing at you and at the person who walked through the doors of The Three Broomsticks. "That's him."

A boy who appeared to be around your age, with blond hair that was smoothed down and away from his face, he wore a dark waistcoat- no jacket- accentuating his build, with his white blouse tucked neatly into his breeches. You had to admit there was something striking about him, it could be his eyes, stormy blue.

He met your gaze and winked, you looked down at your butterbeer that had hardly been touched and lifted it to take a sip, distracting yourself from the heat that rushed to your cheeks in embarrassment.

"Merlin, he's a bit full of himself isn't he?" Garreth leans back in his chair. Imelda lets out a 'ha', and you give her a questioning look.

"If you'd bothered to stop complaining in Runes class for two seconds, you would realize that he's had his eye on you for a while now."

You pout, "Not my fault that class is bloody impossible."

"Not the point," She glances to the side and back at you in an annoyed manner. "Everyone's been talking about it."

That couldn't have been true, you would have heard about it by now. At least, you would think so, the students at Hogwarts did not know how to keep the whispering to themselves, it was easy to hear all the hot gossip when the people talking about it thought you couldn't hear them.

"She's right," Poppy pipes in and flushes, "It's kind of why I brought him up in the first place. Sorry, I just wanted to know what you thought of him, but as you can see now- It was true about what I said earlier."

That he was attractive- he sure was, you wouldn't say blonds are your type, but there was something alluring about him.

"Perhaps you should introduce yourself- officially," Imelda teased at the end.

You thought about it but you didn't know what to say, perhaps you could mention that you were both in the same class? You didn't even know he was in any of your classes. You wouldn't be able to play it off because you don't even know his name.

You were saved from having the interact with him as he had been handed a wrapped pastry, he paid and left.

Imelda tilted her head as if to say 'There you go, missed your chance.'

In the time you were debating what to do, you finished your mug, instead of staying at the table and listening to the teasing- you went to get a refill.

"How's it going, my young friend?" Sirona takes the mug you set on the counter and fills it from a barrel not so far from you.

"I'm well, Sirona, it's been a while since we've talked." You mention, feeling slightly guilty that in all the times you've come here, you've barely chatted with her. "How have you been?"

She returns the mug- now filled and wipes her hands on her apron before leaning her forearms on the wooden surface. "A bit worried, if I'm honest."

Your expression was puzzled as you asked her, "What's wrong?"

"It's the Hamlets, people going missing or being attacked, some are even saying poachers are staying out of areas they normally love to hunt." A solemn look on her face, "It's beginning to feel like last year."

At those words, you feel the hairs stand from your arms, and a shudder ran down your spine that you had suppressed. "Could it be?"

"Can't be sure, Lodgok was the one who had warned me about how rough things were going to be last time."

Your heart clenched, and guilt and sorrow bubbled in your chest, "I'm so sorry-"

"It is not your fault, Y/n," She moved out from behind the bar. "I'm just trying to warn you to be careful, something is brewing- they wear masks and they are following a pattern of the people they attack. Officer Singer claims they don't know what it is yet but I'm not so sure that is true."

Masks. Masks, masks, masks.

Following a pattern, the group who fought you relentlessly last time had killed a specific two or three from the pack of Ashwinders.

These were the same people who attacked you not so long ago, they had drained you, their fighting style was intricate and precise and with motive. What it was- you had no idea but you would find out.

"Now, don't go getting any ideas now- I know you've been quite helpful to wizarding kind but you are still just a child, Y/n- live." She squeezed your arm before giving it a pat and going back to work. 

Chapter Text

This was impossible. How anyone could do this for a living was beyond you, you thought- staring down at the piece of parchment in your hand that you couldn’t read. You could discern a letter here or there, but nothing that could form a sentence.

Pure regret went through you, how could you be so bold as to sign up for a class that you had absolutely no experience in? Actually, that wasn’t true- last year on your quests and during the trials for the keepers, ancient runes were everywhere. But that wasn’t this. Not at all.

You needed this- just in case- you wanted to know what it meant in the small chance that you might need to in the future. You glared at the Ancient Runes Made Easy book made for third years, that was the earliest year that was allowed to take the class, which mostly all of your friends had.

You tossed the paper aside and slid the chair out from under the table you were sitting on, it made a loud screeching sound that earned you a couple of annoyed looks from other students in the library who were trying hard to study. You slipped the paper into the textbook to mark your page, packing your quill and the book into your bag as you walked out into Central Hall.

When you had looked at the longcase clock in the Library it had read 1:37, you had studied all morning, went to lunch, and finished as fast as you could to study- now you were burnt out. You knew that Quidditch tryouts started at 1, that would be a fine enough distraction, Imelda would surely appreciate it as well.

You floo flamed to the field and walked a bit to the bleachers, there was a slight chill in the air that you were glad you chose to wear your warm pants and grey long-sleeve cropped sweater over your grey shirt and black corset with your brown leather boots.

You spotted Garreth with Poppy and Samantha. Everett was trying out, and so were Leander and Nellie. On the opposite side of the bleachers were Sebastian and Ominis, and a couple of rows above them were Violett and Grace. They were probably there to support Imelda.

“Look who finally made it!” Garreth exclaimed the moment he saw you and Poppy smiled your way, patting the empty spot next to her. You took it, part of you felt a little traitorous at sitting with the enemy, but it beat being around Sebastian who would only ignore you, and Ominis who would play the mediator and you weren’t close with Violet or Grace so sitting with your warm-hearted friends trumped the guilt.

The captains made the players line up and began the warmups, as you watched them you couldn’t believe Imelda wanted you to join in on this type of torture, granted you went through some pretty strenuous activities before, and all that was because you had to do what you had to do. This, on the other hand, she was putting herself through willingly.

You cheered on the sidelines for your roommate, while the others wooed and clapped for whoever else they came here for.

~~~

It was dark by the time teams got picked.

Everett, Nellie, and Imelda stayed behind with Madame Kogawa and the Captains to discuss the rules and such. The rest of you all left, not bothering to stick around to hear logistics.

You, Garreth, and Poppy intertwined your hands and walked up the path to the long bridge, swinging them in sync like triplets.

Poppy gasped, and felt for something around her neck, “I forgot my grandmother's scarf!”

“Go, we’ll wait for you,” You encouraged.

She shook her head, “Go ahead, I won’t be alone.”

“You sure?” Garreth asked her in concern. She nodded and skipped back downhill, weaving past the other student that was coming up. You released Garreth’s hand now that it was just the two of you, you looked upward to the several steps still left to go to the bridge and looked at Garreth with a pleading face.

“Piggyback ride?” He asked for confirmation. You nodded with a wide smile, he positioned himself in front of you, crouching for you. In a swift hop you were on his back, his hands behind your thighs, your arms around his neck. “Not too tight,” He strained.

“Sorry,” You loosened your hold and he began to climb.

With you on his back, it took a little longer than necessary in getting to the bridge, once he officially got to the top he dropped his hand from you.

Exhaling and shaking out his arms, “I’m not one to comment on someone’s weight-”

“Don’t you dare,” you warned.

“That was a workout.”

“One that was needed then,” You crossed your arms and put your weight on your hip. “Otherwise you wouldn’t be complaining.”

He stuck his tongue out at you, and you pushed his face away from you, giggling.

“What a lovely couple they make, don’t you think?” The cheery feminine voice of your roommate, Grace, came up the steps.

You were tripped forward into Garreth by a strong brush of an arm that walked past you and under the shelter of the bridge. You whipped your head to see who the culprit was.

Sebastian responded in his distinct highland accent in a low murmur, “Absolutely adorable.”

“You okay?” Garreth asked his hands on your forearms from steadying you.

You nodded with your jaw clenched, “I’m fine, go on ahead.” You give him a promising smile.

Sebastian seemed to have said the same with Grace and waited a couple of paces ahead of you and Garreth. The redhead ruffled your hair, risking a glare from Sebastian, “Catch you later, Y/n/n.”

“Y/n/n?” Sebastian scoffs at the shortening of your name- the nickname- Garreth got used to calling you.

“Is there a problem?” You cross your arms, standing in front of him, when he didn’t respond you continued, “I shouldn’t think that there is one considering you’ve hardly spoken more than a handful of words to me- you’re only ever rude to me whenever you do.”

His jaw ticks, “You’re right, there is no problem.”

He storms off walking a couple of more meters further in, still not close enough to the courtyard. A few students walk past, and you follow him. “Bullshit, Sebastian. No word from you all summer, save for one measly letter, most all our classes are together and hardly ever cordial. What is going on with you?”

“Perhaps your time with Weasley has muddled your brain, Y/n, we don’t have to talk all the time. I don’t have to talk to you,” He seethed.

“Talking is what friends do!”

“What gave you the impression that we are friends?” The tone, his words- they hit you like a punch.

You took a step back, “What?”

“Let me put this to you plainly, since it’s obvious your mind is not up to par, I mean you can barely block a non-verbal,” He breathed out a chuckle. “We are not friends.”

Your features hardened, “Last year never happened then? What you said to me, the letter you wrote. That was it then? I was just a tool for you to use so that you can save Anne and cast aside when you were done.”

He flinched when you spoke her name but didn’t say anything else as he stared into your soul, devoid of any emotion you can decipher.

“Answer me!” You shouted, close to tears, and you refused to let them out. You refused to show him that he hurt you.

“Yes, you were.” He took half a step close, his head down, “I am only sorry for not being candid with you the moment I was done. I thought it would be easier if I told you what I thought you wanted to hear.”

Thought it would be easier. What you wanted to hear.

There was your answer, “Have a nice life, Sebastian.”

You hold it together as you walked the opposite way from the castle, going deep into the forest, the only way you knew how to let everything out.

Chapter Text

Poppy was the only one you could bring yourself to speak to after the confrontation with Sebastian. You were full of anger, and rage that couldn't be contained for the happiness of others. You weren't in the mood for Garreth's jokes, or Imelda's musing on quidditch, nor Natty (though she was one of the few exceptions to the people you could stand to be around you in this state). Poppy was too sweet to contaminate her with your bad attitude, poor Ominis took the brunt of your sourness willingly- he insisted to look after you no matter how much you snarked at him.

You were thankful that it was only one class that you were partnered up with Sebastian. Though you had many classes with him, you had the company of at least one of your friends in them.

Defense Against the Dark Arts; what was once your favorite subject, had become a heavy existence in your life. You drudged your way along the halls every time, taking the long way every time, even if it meant you were going to be late.

Tension and silence was the only thing between you and Sebastian now. You finally knew the truth, he wanted nothing to do with you, you had been a pawn in his game of life. That was all you were to him, this whole summer you spent concerned for his well-being while you were barely an afterthought after your last meeting with him.

Something dark brewed in your heart with that realization. You swore to Ominis that you would renounce dark magic, but it was the sole thing that fueled you to fight rather than drown in the depression of your life.

Fury was your friend at the moment, as denial was in your past, you went through the five stages of grief. In trying to get over the death of Professor Fig and Lodgok, the guilt of what happened with Solomon Sallow and not actually saving Anne. You were famously known as the Hero of Hogwarts but you didn't feel very hero-like with all that you've done.

Now your friendship with Sebastian. He, who had never lied to you, no matter how dark the topic. He made you comfortable, treated you as if you had been friends for years, he made you feel safe the way he protected you from danger even though you both knew that you overpowered him.

It was all a part of his plan, and now the Poachers and Ashwinders had to face your wrath as you snuck out of the castle every other night to let out some steam.

You came back from a run-in with some trackers, they found kneazles- two of them- the dark wizards injured their legs so that they would be able to run. In fighting the trackers you had used the cruciatous curse with little regret, you wished you would've been able to find the restraint not to use an unforgivable but their taunts had got your head.

You used the Floo Flames to bring you back to the castle and into the room of requirement, it was late in the evening, and Deek had probably just left. You conjured up a long table, gently taking each kneazle out, easing them onto the table. A sudden flash came from the Forest Vivarium, your heart was still racing from the rescue that you didn't even flinch. You knew that you had given her access and shown Poppy the room, she had the habit of showing up unannounced.

You heard her gasp at the sight, "What happened?"

"What do you think?" You murmured as you gathered the herbs you needed to heal the animals and ground up the ingredients to a paste. "Found them near the valley."

She reached out her hand to take the mortar and pestle from you, "Here, let me."

You let her take over while you folded up the sleeves of your uniform shirt. You didn't bother to change before you went out. When she finished, you performed a cleansing charm that made the blood that stained their fur disappear, Poppy pet each Kneazle when it was their turn for you to rub the paste onto their wound and wrap it.

You didn't bother putting them in the Vivarium just yet, the others in the home were quite the characters and you didn't know how they'd react to injured newcomers. You flicked your wand making the table disapparate into nothingness, and once again to clean the blood from your shirt.

All of a sudden, everything came crashing down on you, tears came falling onto your cheeks and a sob escaped your mouth. You covered it with the back of your hand but it was still heard, the Hufflepuff that was loving on the cat-like creatures came up to you and placed her hand on your back. She rubbed smooth circles and guided you to the couch in the corner that you had designated a social area.

You hid your face in your hands, as your wails came out most painfully. You couldn't remember the last time you had cried like this, it was embarrassing, you didn't like to cry in front of people and this was the worst of it.

You didn't know if you were being sensitive or you had drained yourself to the point where not even ancient magic could expel what needed to be released.

Poppy stayed beside you in silent support, eyeing you carefully as you pulled yourself together.

"Apologies, Poppy, I did not mean for you to see me in this light." You conjured a box of tissues and wiped away the wetness of your soaked cheeks.

Poppy tutted, "Apology not accepted, as there is nothing to apologize for Y/n. It's alright for you to let it out this way, healthier even."

You let out a laugh that half sounded like a sob, and your eyes burned from the hydration they now lacked. "I suppose you're right."

"Do you mind my asking- and I don't mean to pry, I just want to help. What brought this on?" Poppy asked you softly.

"I miss him," You sigh. She had a puzzled expression and tilted her head in question. It pained you to admit this but it was Poppy- "Sebastian, Professor Fig. I don't regret helping all the people I did but if only I came to school as a normal student. Fig would still be alive, Sebastian and I could've been genuine friends, and I wouldn't feel like an imposter."

"An imposter?" Her tone sounded almost offended. "You saved everyone, all of us, everybody in this school, and the whole wizarding world owe you a big thank you. There was no one else that could have defeated Ranrok, if you hadn't we would be having a completely different conversation right now."

"You don't know what I've done, Poppy," I shake my head in denial. So much death, the monsters were monsters but the people- dark wizard or no- you relived all of them in your nightmares. The green curse shooting out of your wand, the light in their eyes (no matter how much of a maniac they were) was gone.

"And I don't need to know, you did what you thought you had to and anyone who's anyone would agree," She spoke stubbornly and with purpose. "Professor Fig wouldn't want you to linger on his death, he would want you to live. As for Sebastian, he's not being himself, everyone can see that. You were all he would talk about last year, would not shut up about you, and I was only his Charms partner."

You knew the true reason why he was so interested, everyone had heard about the dragon incident- the reason why you were late to the sorting ceremony. You had beaten him in DADA, beat a troll with your ancient magic right in front of him- of course, he'd be fascinated by the new girl who had crazy powers. He was desperate to find a cure and you unintentionally proved that you could be worthy enough to help him.

"He had his reasons for that I'm sure."

"You're not thinking clearly, Y/n."

"No, Poppy I am, he admitted it to me after quidditch tryouts. He only wanted me for my powers so that I could help him with Anne, as I'm sure you've noticed we haven't been speaking."

"It's like you're ignoring what I just said- he is not himself!" Poppy's sweet voice had turned annoyed. "Believe what you want, but that boy did not just want to use you. I may have been a beast freak for most of my years here, but I've gone out of my shell long enough to notice that Sebastian Sallow never takes an interest in anyone, not even if they could be used for his benefit."

~~~

You had run the conversation that you had with Poppy through your head so many times it made your head ache. It could have been that or the crying, whatever it was, it had distracted your mind so much that you went through your classes all day, and not a word your professors said had processed in your brain. At dinner, you sat by yourself at the very end of the table, close to the doors as you had for the whole of last week.

Your owl, Athena, had almost dropped a letter into your food. She always had an attitude when giving you owls at certain times, as if she had better things to do than deliver your correspondence.

You finish your plate with one last bite before tearing it open and reading it, it was from Ominis, inviting you to the Undercroft. You debated going, you've put him through several trials these past few days, it was a surprise to have gotten a letter about wanting to see you. Everyone thought it was best to walk on eggshells around you.

You left the Great Hall and walked to the Defense against the Dark Arts Tower where the undercroft was located, looking around to see if anyone was around before using the spell that was needed to unlock it.

He sat on the velvet green settee that was conjured not long after the desk was and was put in front of the portrait. His back was to you but you had no doubt he knew you were there.

"Good Evening, Ominis" You announced yourself with your greeting. You carefully avoided bumping into the coffee table placed at the center between the portrait and the couch, you sat on one of the chairs that matched the other parallel from it.

"Good Evening, Y/n, no new hideous attempts at a shortening of my name?" He took a sip of the tea he was drinking, letting the cup clink in its saucer.

You withheld a smile and shook your head, "Not today. I believe an apology is in order."

His spine straightened, "Go on."

"I'm sorry I've been a terror with my moods as of late, I have gone through something of an existential crisis but I am better now." You swallowed your pride in what you were about to admit, "I want to thank you for putting up with it."

"Apology accepted," He nodded his head once and added, "It is also accepted in the payment of your Charms notes. Dealing with your treacherous moods is quite taxing."

"You tricky bastard," You tutted with three clicks of your tongue on the roof of your mouth. "Here I was seeking your forgiveness through a heartfelt apology like a dolt and you were just playing me as a fool. What happened to wanting to study the material given to you?"

"That was then, this is now."

You snorted, "Right, well, I'll owl them to you later, I don't have them with me."

"Perfect," He mused.

A steaming pot of tea poofed onto the table in front of you along with a teacup and plate in the same pattern as Ominis', your eyebrows shot up in surprise. You performed a charm that made the pot of tea pour into the teacup without spilling, using your wand to float the saucer to you.

"May I suggest something?"

You took your first sip of the scalding hot tea, "Depends."

"I've heard of your late-night escapades and before you say anything- no, I will not be informing the Head of house. I only wish to suggest an alternative."

"Go on," You repeated the words Ominis used earlier. Relief fills the small bit of panic that washed over you.

"I am allowing you to use the Undercroft at your disposal, it is enchanted to be mostly anything proof, whatever you do in the woods at night can be done in here. You need not put yourself in danger, you can practice your magic at whatever capacity you wish."

You thought about it briefly; it would be nice not to have to move your beasts in and out of their vivariums every time you needed to let out your ancient magic. You could bring in training dummies and use this as your arena, if what Ominis said was true, you could use this to your advantage. The only thing that kept you from accepting Ominis' offer was Sebastian, he was the one who showed you the Undercroft in the first place. This was a space he often occupied and you wouldn't be caught dead in the same room with him without another person in the room to keep you from hexing him til he could no longer think of ways to insult you with his mere existence.

"If you're worried about him, I'll make sure he's not here when you are."

"You cannot possibly be sure of that Ominis," You scoffed. "And stay out of my head."

"I don't have to be in your head to sense the one reason why you would be hesitant, you have my word that I will ensure you are comfortable and safe while you practice your magic here."

Sebastian was unpredictable and stubborn, you weren't a hundred percent confident that Ominis would be able to keep him from the Undercroft but it was his family's secret place and perhaps he could find a way to keep Sebastian away.

"Fine," You extended your teacup to his, giving it a little clink to seal the deal.

Ominis had a hint of a smile on his face, "On another note, my family has been pestering me nonstop with their letters."

"What about?" You edged onto your seat inquisitively. As far as you knew from what He-who-shall-not-be-named told you, Ominis didn't care for his family because of their ideals and what they put him through as a child, you weren't sure how they felt about their son exactly but if they were sending him letters you suppose they couldn't have disowned him. They had no reason to if you really thought about it, they were simply estranged.

"I can't say that I know what their reasoning is, only that I have no interest in speaking to them."

"Perhaps you could read what they have to say, you don't even have to bother with a response."

"Perhaps."

~~~

You spent the rest of the evening in deep conversation with Ominis about the latest gossip around school and how classes were going until you both saw the time and noticed that prefects were going to be doing their rounds soon. You walked with Ominis to the common room and got dressed in your dorm using the disillusionment spell to sneak out of the castle.

Throughout this week you've been following a lead on the people Sirona warned you about. You haven't noticed anything new; the masks were targeting specific witches and wizards and were using incredibly powerful dark magic. Your workload in your late-night missions had been piled on by Ranrok Loyalists that were on the loose. While you still shut down poacher camps and tracked down the masked figures, now you had to add Goblins to the list whenever you came across them.

They had a heavy vendetta against you specifically, not a surprise there, thankfully you had plenty of experience in beating them and you didn't struggle half as much as you did when fighting the unnamed masked wizards.

You spotted them in lower hogsfield ganging up on a family of five. The mother clutched onto her children with tears in her eyes as the father bravely stood in front, he was being shot at by multiple different wands. You shot out lightning from your wand, bringing it down on the terrorizers. The mother cried out to her husband who hadn't moved from his place on the ground.

The lightning had distracted most of them and caught your attention, leaving the woman with her children to run away. 

You pushed and fought as you always did, as you were doing right now. They relentlessly shot curses at you, stinging jinxes and even the killing curse when they got tired of you. You had dodged each one with strenuous effort, they never hesitated, they were quick and never seemed to tire. Their form was impeccable and flawless, even when fighting you and trying to go for their targets they never faltered, they looked as if they were dancing a waltz.

The sight of the family had made your heart hurt, it urged you to continue, to fight til your last breath if you had to. They had to flee, to leave their father, her husband on the ground with his green eyes still open.

You were never quick on your feet, you had gotten into the habit of it last year, then again last year you had a teacher who would correct your form and encourage you to perform better with each cast.

As you ducked in time for the cruciatous curse to miss you, you cast expelliarmus, and protego to protect yourself against another spell sent your way, you didn't notice in time one of the masked figures had levitated you and brought you to them.

"You've been such a nuisance," By their voice they were male, what age you couldn't tell but they were tall you were currently taller as you were hovering over him. His hand was wrapped around your neck, squeezing with each word. "Such power, wasted."

You tightened your grip on your wand, you had been building up your ancient magic until you knew you couldn't fight them off. That was your tactic for most of your fights with them, each time it had them running off.

You felt the hum of the blue tendrils that traveled from your wand and up your arm, his eyes narrowed and whatever he saw in your face made him drop the levitation spell on you. And shout at the others, ordering them to get as far away from you as possible. It was too late, you formed a sphere of magic in your hands before letting out a ring of power that knocked them all to the ground.

Your victory was short-lived as you exhaled in relief you felt the familiar agony of the cruciatous curse. You fell onto your back with a scream stuck in the back of your throat, you saw them leave the scene, you were abandoned in a field in lower hogsfield. Your body was writhing in pain, long after the curse had worn off your body twitched. Each twitch brought an extra sting to the open wounds from the slices you weren't able to avoid and with no Wiggenwelds on you, you winced with every step to the nearest floo flame.

Everything went dark.

~~~

When you woke up there were eight pairs of eyes staring down at you. The pain you had before was gone and you were left with an ache. The children that were staring down at you when you awoke now scattered to find their mother who was at the fireplace to the right of you, you were on the couch.

You propped yourself up on your elbows before starting to sit up fully, the woman from earlier had stood from her crouched position and tsked. She helped you sit against the back of the couch, she flicked her wand to bring a bowl of hot soup to your lap.

"Here, please eat," She insisted.

You glanced at the bowl and her, her eyes were swollen from crying, she was probably in her early thirties but could pass off being in her mid-twenties. You ruled out her age by the sight of her kids, the oldest looking around eight years old. "Thank you."

"I should be thanking you for saving us..."

You gave her a weak smile, "Y/n."

"Y/n," The smile she gave back was wobbly and she was in tears. "Oh, thank you."

You set aside the bowl on the table to your right, "I'm sorry..."

"Mary, Mary Osterfield," She sniffed.

"Mary, I'm sorry I couldn't save your husband," You couldn't help the stinging in your eyes. You weren't sure those were the right words to say, but you said them anyway, if you had gotten there in time maybe there would have been a chance where you could have.

She held an incredulous look, "No, no you are just a child, George- he, I know he was grateful you showed up when you did. I cannot thank you enough, if it wasn't for you, we would have been dead." Mary whispered the last part to you with her shaky voice.

I nod in understanding, "Do you know why they were attacking you?"

"I've heard the rumors of the masked hunters, at least that's what I think they are called, others have called them The Reapers of Death." She shuddered, "My neighbor Lydia was murdered by one of them just last week, her entire family with her. I can't imagine what would have happened if you hadn't shown up, but my dear George."

She sobbed, and in her state, you cried with her, she held onto her kids who also cried along. "Missus-" The littlest one asked, she was around four "-Do you think the scary monsters would come back for us?"

"No," You stuttered. You had no clue, you didn't want to lie but the little girl had stared up at you with the same green eyes that stared into yours when it was on the ground. "No, they won't."

"Promise?"

You felt like you were going to throw up, "Promise."

Mary told them to go play upstairs while you two talked, when they left the room she mouthed the words thank you, and whispered as she fed you all that she knew. "George had thoughts on who those people are, who they were targeting, and the ministry possibly going after those who hadn't complied with the law. It didn't make any sense to me, if you ask me, from all that I've heard- the one thing everyone they have attacked has in common is that they are all muggle-born."

"Muggle-borns?"

"George had a muggle mother and father, Lydia as well, the others who died were also from the muggle world." Her head shook, "I can't begin to describe the horrors I've heard about them."

You sat there and listened, all the details of the tortures the hamlets have been going through, entire families were killed one-by-one by these 'Reapers of Death', you needed to write a letter to the ministry. It would be an informative and anonymous address to Officer Singer, pleading with her to help- to send aid, anything.

You only hoped that you could hold the promise you made to Mary's daughter.

Chapter Text

As you read your notes in class before the Professor came, it felt useless, your notes were as if you were reading Gobbledegook. You spent the majority of your free time while you were recovering after your normally scheduled classes, studying, and writing notes that you thought would absolve you of all your stress. Walking into class early, you pulled out the books of the notes you meticulously wrote and your eyes bulged out of your head at the nonsense on the page.

You weren’t a Ravenclaw for a reason, you clutched your head as you tried to read through and memorize what you hoped would be on the exam.

You felt someone sit in the seat next to yours at the shared desk, you fully expected to see your fellow Slytherin Imelda as you lifted your head to express relief, “Oh good you’re here.”

“Is it?” The boy from The Three Broomsticks is in the seat next to you, the seat Imelda usually occupied.

You were confused at why he was there and not wherever he usually sat, “Excuse me?”

“Good that I’m here, sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you,” He smiled sheepishly. His smile was crooked but charming with the way it made his eyes shine.

“No, I-um,” You winced. “Sorry, what are you doing here?”

He glanced around the class, “Same as you hopefully.”

You broke into a smile and a jump of your brows at his ease, you gave out a breathy laugh to calm your nerves. “Right.” You continued the revision of your notes, disregarding the new sixth year.

“Bit of a stressful subject, eh?”

“Yep,” You placed a hand under your chin to steady your reading. He inched a little toward you, you noticed through your peripheral, peering at your writing that had gone from neat to scribble in the time you had written it. You hesitated before you asked, “Are you having any trouble?”

He shook his head shortly, “Surprisingly no, though it’s not to say it’s not without its challenges.”

“Right,” You said again in defeat, your head falling. Every week it felt more and more like you got immensely lucky with the assignments and your NEWTS in your fifth year, beginner's luck for a school year.

“I’d be happy to tutor you if you need the extra help.”

You thought about his offer for a short minute and opted out of answering definitively. “I might take you up on that sometime, I fear it is a little late for me today.”

He grinned, “Unfortunately so. I’m Vaughn by the way.”

You met his soft gaze, “Y/n.”

“I know,” His grin widened at the crease in your brow, “Your reputation precedes you. You are quite the public figure in these parts, and if I may risk sounding a bit forward and saying you are even more spectacular in person.”

You were at a loss for words, something that you never experienced, well except for when a certain someone had called you ignorant… You hoped the heat that you felt in your cheeks wasn’t visible.

Students you recognized as part of the class had now entered the room, they eyed you and Vaughn, taking their usual seats until Imelda walked in and paused at the sight of you. A smirk planted on her lips as she smoothly took the seat in the desk behind you.

“I hope you don’t mind I took your spot, Imelda,” Vaughn turned to look at her. “I know Y/n is your usual partner, I was wanting to get to know her a little, I’m a bit of a fan.”

You didn’t usually like the whole ‘having fans’ thing but he flattered you too well. She waved her hand dismissively, “No, that’s quite alright, she’s all yours.”

~~~

The acquaintanceship of you and Vaughn became a popular subject amongst the gossipers and overzealous girls. Eyes scanned you now for something completely different than whether your build was one of a fighter who could take down a troll in a village, now they searched for any imperfection that would deem you unworthy of a boy as handsome as the golden boy.

It was fairly uncomfortable for you to hear the comments some of the girls made, I mean truly, they were outrageous.

“Y/n,” You heard a familiar feminine voice shout after you, though you weren’t entirely sure why and hope that it wasn’t to send you on another dive to retrieve something valuable, you didn’t think you had the strength to do anything even slightly precarious just yet.

Your roommate, Grace Pinch-Smedley had halted in front of you and pulled you to the side of the first door out of the Great Hall.

“Hello, Grace, did you need something?”

Her cheeks were tinged pink, “It’s a little embarrassing, I couldn’t help but notice that you’re friends with the new boy, everyone has actually.”

“Vaughn?” You blinked in surprise, you wouldn’t call yourself friends with him exactly, you’ve only had a conversation or two with him from the moment he made himself your new desk partner and that was two days ago. News really did travel fast amongst the students of Hogwarts. 

“I’d understand if you said no, but could you put in a good word for me? I’d very much like it if he were to court me.”

This was awkward. You couldn’t say you knew him well enough to suggest a potential love interest, but for your roommate's sake, you told her that you would do what you could. “I can’t promise anything, but I’ll try.”

“Oh thank you,” She squealed, squeezing your hands before leaving you to think to yourself.

~~~

Flash after flash hit the training dummy in the dark room, spell combinations were getting easier, and with the new activeness, you were able to move more swiftly. You stretched beforehand and massaged your fingers, even meditating at times to focus your mind.

You found that what you could manage to do was the obvious spells from last year and the new vocal spells you were taught this year. Non-verbals became easier but it was a notable struggle that you felt self-conscious about, especially with the comments made by Sebastian in any class that Professor Hecat allowed you to practice.

At times it felt like your wand was burnt out, with the struggle of trying to get a simple cast right. Maybe it was a reflection of how you felt internally. You spent, at least, an hour every day in the Undercroft practicing Non-verbals and finding out methods that would make it easier for you.

Exiting the gates with a thin sheet of sweat glistening on your skin, you were too focused on cooling down that you didn’t notice someone walking in as you were walking out.

Your eyes flash open and you take a step back, the clock door was wide open, and you sound breathless as you speak. “Sebastian.”

“Taking advantage of the Undercroft are we?” He quirks a brow at you.

“Ominis gave me permission to be here, not sure you could say the same, we both know you like to sneak.” You glance at the empty space behind him that he was blocking, in a way to signal that you wanted to get out of the elevator but he didn’t move.

“Noticed you’ve been around the new 6th year.”

“For someone who is not interested in being my friend, you sure seem to notice a lot about who’s around me,” You recall the Garreth altercation and now he mentions Vaughn.

“Don’t be daft, I’m just curious to see how many of the boys at Hogwarts you ensnare with your feminine wiles before it all comes crumbling around you,” His forearm is on the frame of the clock. His new height made him tower over you more than he did last year, the way his right leg was crossed over his left and his other hand kept the door open, his casual remarks infuriating you.

You couldn’t help but laugh, “Feminine wiles? Am I not to mention all the women that flock to your attention, you have more friends with the opposite sex than with your own.”

“Now who’s interested?” He keeps his smirk to himself but he couldn’t help the twitch in his lips.

“I’m not the one being set on being the most rude person on earth,” You counter. You would have been his friend if he let you.

“From what I hear we’re one for one.” The past week ran through your mind, how often you snapped at poor Garreth who was just trying to help you during class or isolating yourself so that you wouldn't be a bitch to people who didn't deserve it. All because of the boy in front of you. Ominis sure didn't hold back from mentioning how moody you've been.

Now who could he have heard that from, “Not that it’s any of your concern but I was having a bad week.”

“You’re right, it is none of my concern, I’m simply passing through my hideout,” He pushes himself off the frame and rights himself into a normal stance.

“You mean Ominis’ hideout,” You corrected.

“Yes, his- the place you so conveniently came out of, the one I introduced you to.”

You lifted your chin, “Coming here is my business.”

“Ah, but this is still Ominis’ place as you said.”

“I thought you were aware of our arrangement,” You admitted. You assumed Ominis would have told him and that was how he was going to keep Sebastian and you from running into each other, it was simply luck that you hadn’t so far.

A flicker of an unreadable emotion passed in his eyes, he spreads his hands, “It is clear now that I was not.”

“Right, well, now that that’s settled-” You move to one side to walk around him, and he steps in the same direction. You go to the left and he repeats the action, you huff out a breath and risk touching him. You grasp his elbows and move him to the right, squaring your shoulders to walk confidently away from him.

~~~

“Can you believe Grace asked me if I could set her up with Vaughn?” You tell Poppy as you pet Caligo, the black feather Hippogriff. “I can’t be around her in fear of her asking if I ‘ve done it.”

She chuckles, “I’d imagine the request was odd, especially coming from her.”

“Only because I don’t want to be held responsible if it doesn’t go her way, what did you mean?” You pause your petting and refill the beast feeder.

“It has to be weird for you to be friendly with Sebastian's ex-girlfriend, sharing a room with her even, and for her to ask you to set her up with a guy who is clearly flirting with you.”

She left you speechless, people just kept surprising you nowadays, Sebastian used to court Grace? Vaughn flirting with you?

“I have no interest in Vaughn, firstly.” You had to get that out of the way, “Second, Sebastian and Grace?”

“I know right,” Poppy scrunched her nose as she picked up a puffskein and nuzzled her nose to the grey puffball. “They were an unusual couple, didn’t last very long though.”

Sebastian and Grace? You couldn’t get over it. Grace who comes from a well-known family that’s well off money wise and Sallow, who is- well Sebastian. Known troublemaker that he is, you doubted that Grace’s family would’ve approved any such courtship. Then again that could be the reason they’re not together now.

“Why’d they break up?”

“You’ve got a lot of questions for someone who ‘couldn’t care less about Sebastian Sallow’,” She teased.

“He never mentioned it,” You shrugged.

“I wonder why,” She said with a smile.

Chapter Text

Ever since that last encounter, Vaughn wouldn’t stop popping up everywhere. Did you really not notice him this whole time? He walked past you in the halls with a wave or a ‘Hello’, He sat visibly in the Hufflepuff table in the Great Hall almost in your direct eye-line, you saw his blond hair from a mile away in Hogsmeade with his own friends. You were beginning to see him almost as often as you see Sebastian; which is an annoying amount.

Other things you’ve noticed now that you were opening your mind to the world around you and less around your own self-deprecation, Grace and Sebastian. You never noticed the way they were around each other, it wasn’t anything incriminating really, you just saw them have conversations in the common room or on the way to class. Not that it would be incriminating if it were more than that…

There was a certain pang in your chest when you saw them, it had been a while since you felt this particular emotion, it clawed its way into your heart and made you want to tear your skin off. At least you knew you weren’t the only one that was bothered.

Sebastian, for whatever reason, couldn’t stand the idea of you and Vaughn being friends. The Hufflepuff boy was very sweet and he was attentive, likes to carry your books when you're walking together, for example, and has a hand an inch or two behind your back as if he was guiding you or making sure you wouldn’t fall on the staircase.

Though the friendship blossomed out of nowhere, and he seemed to hover, you didn’t mind him.

You pretended not to notice but Sebastian’s eyes lingered whenever you were around Vaughn, just like yours did when he was talking to Grace, you doubted it was for the same reason but it gave you satisfaction in knowing he was still bothered. It made Vaughn's random appearances much more favorable.

You kept up with your wand work in the Undercroft, making very slight progress, convincing yourself that you were perfecting your skills and not failing at everything else.

“Why do you push yourself so hard?” Ominis breaks you out of your thoughts. He was lounging on the couch now facing your way as if he could watch, in some ways, it felt like he was. His power as a legilimens made it feel more intense than as if he was staring with his own two eyes, no matter the promise of him not reading your mind. You thought he was napping like he always appeared to be doing in and between classes.

You confronted him about him not telling Sebastian that you were using the Undercroft, and he told you that it was better if Sebastian didn’t know (he didn’t feel it was necessary for you to know why, which you were still bugged about) but that Sebastian would not be a nuisance. 

You wipe the sweat off of your brow and sigh, “If I tell you something, will you swear not to get upset?”

His eyebrows lift suspiciously, “That depends on whether or not it warrants my being upset.”

“Have you heard about the Hamlets and what had been happening as of late?” You ask. He wouldn’t want you to get involved and would tell you to go to the authorities but you had a way with Ominis and perhaps he would help you rather than scold you.

“I assumed it had to with the fall of Ranrok, Loyalists on the loose, and whatnot.”

You prayed to Merlin he would not throw a fit about what you were planning on telling him, “I’ve been tracking down camps in my spare time and I came across a family being attacked by a group that calls themselves ‘Death Reapers’ at least that’s what the woman told me. She also said that they’ve been specifically targeting muggle-born witches and wizards.” You decided not to mention that you’ve been attacked by them before and that you almost died this time around.

His face had gone ghostly pale, more so than usual, he didn’t speak. Pensive. You stepped toward him and the moment you did the clicking of the gears to the Undercroft was heard.

“Who died?” Sebastian hears you shuffle your feet as you move to sit next to Ominis.

You brush off the betrayal at Ominis’ earlier promise about Sebastian, and question the boy who hadn’t spoken, “What is it?”

“Your presence doesn’t appear to be helpful,” Sebastian spoke as he strode over and sat on the other side of his friend.

“Ominis and I were having a discussion that has put him in distress, I’m sure your waltzing in here uninvited-”

“Uninvited?” His brows furrowed in confusion and barked out a laugh, “I’m afraid you're the excluded party here.”

“Neither of you is excluded,” Ominis regained his speech, “I wanted you both here so I wouldn’t have to share the same bit of information twice. Y/n, you have just given me a vital piece that I was missing.”

“So much for no one being excluded, I have no bloody idea what you’re on about,” Sebastian’s eyes were wild with question.

You inhaled proudly, “What was that about my presence?”

“Both of you, stop that,” Ominis chided. “You’re acting like children and I am in no mood to babysit.”

“She started it,” The brunette boy pointed with a glare.

You scoffed and crossed your arms, fully sitting back on the couch, “Well? Tell us then.”

“You’re both aware of my family and the history of their feelings towards muggles…”

“Yes, yes, they want them all to burn in their own hell,” Sebastian said with a dismissiveness that had your eyes shooting toward him offended. It was no secret of the Gaunt’s prejudice, especially not with what Sebastian told you and Ominis himself but you had an uneasy feeling about what Ominis may say.

“If what you’re saying is true about the people attacking the Hamlets, then my family may have some part in it, they’ve recently been sending me owls on how they wish for me to be more involved in their business.”

“What does that mean, exactly?” You sit back up and hold onto Ominis’ hand that was clenched in his lap, giving it a squeeze of encouragement.

“I fear they may have created the Death Reapers.”

Chapter Text

“You seriously believe your parents are behind this?” Ominis nods his head slowly in response to you.

“Behind what, exactly, in case you both forgot I was late to whatever this is.” Sebastian inquires with a bitter tone. You share the details you told Ominis and not a shred more in front of the boy who sits in the middle of the both of you in clear distress. You didn't linger on the fact that you once would have trusted Sebastian with the full story.

Sebastian lets out a rather hearty laugh, you beheld a bewildered expression on your face. This wasn't a joke. “Would the Gaunts really go that far?”

“You haven’t met them, Sebastian, from your knowledge of my family that ought to give you a well-versed idea of their ethics.” Responded Ominis gravely. You then asked what he proposed you all do. “We alert the authorities.”

“Already done, I’ve sent a letter to Officer Singer anonymously- she can’t know I’ve been out of Hogwarts grounds.”

“Then we wait and see how she responds.”

Sebastian raises his hand like he’s in a class, “May I just say, that this isn’t the first time something like this has happened. I’m sure this is just a phase those purebloods are going through and once they’ve had their fill, all will be as it once was.”

“I’m not going to just sit around to find out whether or not the Aurors are going to do something about this,” You exasperated. Sebastian wasn’t affected by this, it wasn’t his problem therefore he doesn’t care but you made a promise. “I’m going to do what I can to help the Hamlets.”

Ominis suspired with a hand to his forehead, “I sometimes wonder if you’ve been placed in the right house with your lack of self-preservation.”

“I’m clever enough to be where I am and obviously ambitious, no need for self-preservation when I’m confident.” Fake it 'til you make it and all that, it was a new philosophy you adopted in order to overcome the serious imposter syndrome you feel.

Sebastian snorted.

"Amused?" Not like there weren't people's lives at stake.

"Very."

~~~

You are up the steps of the DADA tower steps and in the hallway with portraits, two knight armor statues placed on both sides of the small alcove where a cat lay behind a plant, gazing at the stained glass window when you heard an obvious cough meant to grasp your attention.

Your look over your shoulder and to your surprise it was Sebastian. You fully turn to face him, waiting for whatever abusive comment he was surely about to make. When in the next second he didn’t speak you opened your mouth, “Talking to me now, are we?”

He scowls, “Were we not earlier?”

“I assumed that was for Ominis’ sake not to vex him any further.”

“Seeing as you are persistent in engaging in conversation with me, I see no point in keeping my mouth shut when you are around.”

You attempt to bite back your bitter laugh and fail, “You truly are arrogant. It is you who intrudes on my every venture, Sallow, you followed me out of the Undercroft.”

“Do not fret, this will not last long,” He flattens his green vest and corrects his posture. “Lucan has given me the task of informing you about the Crossed Wands meeting.”

You gaze up at him with a fiery attitude, “When exactly is it being held?”

“Wednesday at 6.” Tomorrow. Brilliant.

“You can tell him I’ll be there.”

He gives you a curt nod, “You can tell him at the meeting how he can inform you about future meetings himself after tomorrow, good day, Ms. L/n.”

Lucan had owled you before, you weren’t sure why he didn’t just do that now, and what did he just call you?

“Ms. L/n?” Your face scrunched at how he addressed you, and you had to admit that it stung.

“That is the proper way to address each other,” He replied with indifference.

“With formalities?” You said still in disbelief and wondered if he can hear the hurt in your voice. “Sebastian, please.”

You note how he winces lightly at the sound of his name, “Witches and Wizards, especially at our age are not confined to those rules and after all we’ve been through?”

“Need I remind you that last year meant nothing, that we are nothing.”

A complete and absolute tosser, you thought “You’ve made that quite clear, however, if you are to speak to me from now on, I do not wish to be called by my last name.”

“Good day, Ms. L/n.” He said with finality and walked away to leave you with your thoughts in the middle of the hall.

“Awkward,” You heard the Knight statue sing behind your back. The other knight left its post and swung its sword, beheading the one who spoke. It bowed before returning to its stand.

You were unsure if it could see you but gave the Knight who defended you a half-hearted smile, “Thanks.”

~~~

It was Wednesday half past 5 when you began walking to the clock tower courtyard. It was a fairly peaceful day, transfiguration was interesting, Beasts class always made you feel better when interacting with the creatures, and in potions, you learned the wound-cleaning potion that would certainly come in handy.

Despite the new status of now talking to Sebastian, there was no conversation. You had nothing to say to him, and if you did it was kept short, you didn’t want or need his rancorous attitude. Especially since you were going to see him at Crossed Wands.

You met Natty outside of the faculty tower where the bridge leads to the Clock Tower courtyard. She greets you with a grin as you walk down the steps, the doors open to an abundance of Samhain decorations.

Pumpkins with faces carved in them were placed in the corner of the interior of the courtyard, torches and floating candles lit as the evening grew darker. Most of the castle has been decorated to fit the season, especially as Samhain was this Saturday.

The group organizer, Lucan, who was newly a fourth year still hasn’t shredded his boyish face but grew to be your height- an inch taller, you realize as you come closer.

A couple of members in the club are spread out in their preferred groups, only a few new students have joined but there were mostly familiar faces. No sign of Sebastian yet.

Spectators sat close to the gate that was still open to students.

“Excited?” Natty asked, observing the crowd. “First match of the year for you.”

“For me?” You peered at her quizzically, as far as you were concerned this was the first match of the year.

Natty appeared puzzled by your question, “The first meeting was last week. The Brattleby boy said he sent someone to tell you, I thought you wanted a break from fighting so I thought nothing of it when you weren’t here.”

You ground your teeth together as you pieced what could have happened together. Sebastian must have conveniently forgotten to tell you, so why did he tell you now? “I never received the message.”

“How odd, you are here now which is what matters,” She bumped her shoulder against yours. You gave her a side smile as you stretched your arms and neck, beside you she did the same.

“We could be a team if you’d like?” Natty offered, you considered for a second but told her that you wanted to go solo. Internally you had something to prove to someone in specific. You didn’t care to win this time, you had your victory being the Dueling Champion. Unfortunately, that was one you had shared with Sebastian as your partner.

This time you only cared to beat him.

As soon as you saw Lucan had ended his last conversation with Leander, you went in to tell him how you’d duel this round.

“Hello, Y/n!” He immediately brightened as he saw you approach.

You gave him a warm smile, “Lucan. Quite a lineup you have this year.”

“Oh, yes, it’s amazing isn’t it.” He nodded eagerly, “Tons of bets have been put in, loads have been on you. Shame you weren’t here for the first of the season.”

“I’m afraid your message got lost somehow, but I’m ready now.”

He hissed, “Merlin, I- You see since you weren’t here for the first, you don’t qualify for the competition.”

Fuck.

“But,” You held onto your hope as he spoke. “You are allowed to duel against other competitors, your win is yours, it just won’t count for the title.”

You breathed a sigh of relief and hugged the boy, “Thank you.”

“Will you be dueling with Sebastian?” He patted your back in the hug, his cheeks flushed.

You released him and stepped back firmly on your feet, “No. I’d actually like to compete against him.”

He blinked in surprise, “Oh. Well, alright then.”

“Does that interfere with the way you have it set up?” You didn’t want to inconvenience him. “I can back out if anything, we just haven’t been… in sync as of late.”

You knew that your dueling against Sebastian would fuel the rumors of drama between you and him but frankly, you didn’t care.

“No, it’s not a problem, singles duel last so you have time to prepare.” He gave you a look you couldn’t decipher, “Good luck. Not that you need it, you’re bloody amazing, Sebastian’s a formidable opponent. Ruthless if I’m being honest, you’ve only fought with him, being on the other side of his wand.”

He took a second to think and shivered, “Good luck, Y/n. I’m rooting for you.”

So much for that, you caught a glimpse of red and short brown hair, both in their casual clothing. You turned your head to spot where Natty was and saw she was prepping with Nellie. You went over to the pair that was cornered to the right door that leads up to the clock tower, this was a safe zone, for now.

“Come to see the show?” You placed your hands on your hips as you stood behind Garreth who whirled around at the sound of your voice.

He picked you up and wrapped you in a tight hug, “Y/n/n!”

You giggled, hugging him back, he set you down next to Poppy who asked you if you were dueling.

“I go on later.”

“Solo,” Poppy stated more than asked. “Against…”

“Take a wild guess,” You told her.

“Sallow?” Garreth chimed, suddenly gone pale. “Sebastian Sallow?”

“Well him and a few others of course but yes, he’s one of them.”

Poppy gave you a concerned stare but said nothing of it, “Best of luck then.”

Garreth gulped, “Prayers. Lots and lots of prayers.”

Poppy gave him a stab in the ribs to which he winced and switched spots with you, now standing next to her as you backed away from them.

“Never been the religious sort but since you insist on getting killed,” He muttered. That earned him a smack in the back of his head from your Hufflepuff friend.

You rolled your eyes at his dramatics but kissed his cheek affectionately as a way to cheer him up and gave his cheek a slap, “Chin up lad, I’m the bloody Hero of Hogwarts.” The title you didn’t care for slipped from your tongue and though it didn’t give you extra powers for being named that, it did give people hope.

Sallow wasn’t that good.

Okay, maybe he was. However that didn’t mean shite, you could also be ruthless when you fought. Granted, this had not been your lucky year so far, but when you won this it would surely give you that boost of confidence you so desperately needed.

“Alright, everyone!” Lucan's voice paused everyone's conversations. Once he got everyone’s attention he explained that groups will go first, those who lose are out and the remaining with duel in pairs, pairs will end in singles. Winners of the second round will go on to the final where they will be crowned champion.

And so it went, until there were 4 left, not including yourself and Sebastian who had shown up just as Charlotte Morrison had finished Natty off with a swift speed of spells. Oh, how she agitated you. Charlotte had a sickly sweet tone in her voice every time she bested people, and had the audacity to pretend to be humble when it was obvious that she was not.

You disliked her the way Ominis dislikes Duncan Hobhouse. Natty took her loss amiably, she strode over to you after they had shook hands, slightly out of breath.

“Natty,” You drawled out her name sympathetically.

She shook her head, “No, no. It is alright, it was a fair game.”

You grumbled for her with arms crossed, the entrance of Sebastian had whispers and bets going around. It started as soon as they had heard that you would be dueling against him. You wondered how many people betted for you and how many shared Garreth and Lucan's sentiments.

Lucan announced your name, then Sebastian, informing you both to step in the middle. He counted down, telling you both to get into position and begin.

Sebastian had a twinkle in his eye and a smirk that pulled his dimple out of hiding. You swiped your wand left then right, and finally pulled back your arm as if you were holding a bow.

Quiet conversation and deep stares were heard and felt as you and Sebastian circled each other. Neither of you struck first.

“Scared, Sallow?” You taunted him.

He didn’t budge, “L/n, we both know that you haven’t been a threat since the beginning of the year. You even need your boyfriend here for moral support.”

You sent three casts his way, all of which he blocked with ease. “I seem to be doing just fine.” Though you missed, you knew that he had to use some strength to block the spells you used. You have been practicing after all.

“A bit defensive don’t you think?” Confringo was shot at you, blast after blast, you didn’t have time to retaliate.

You blocked and blocked and blocked until you were almost backed into the metal gate that held stored items. You took your chance and cast Depulso, rolling away and bouncing back up to your feet. While he was down you hit him with one of his favorite, Incendio.

He got back up with a singed shirt and attacked, it was never-ending, the duel had to have been longer than 30 minutes. Neither of you had given up, it was an intense dance that both of you were used to doing side-by-side. This was the first time your wands were pointed at each other.

“Is that all you’ve got?”

You couldn’t remember the moment when you’d heard him say that before, but you knew it infuriated you. You wouldn’t admit it but Sebastian was tiring you out a little- only a little.

You pushed and struck, swiped, and jabbed. He mirrored as if he was only playing along like he wasn’t even trying. Was he?

“Sallow,” You growled. “What are you doing?”

“Whatever do you mean?” He parried and slashed Diffindo. He was caught, he was putting on a show and he was going easy on you. Sebastian knew you were catching onto his game and upped his ante. “You can do better than that, actually, can you?"

You performed a spell combo that you had been practicing on but he just laughed it off even as it hit him.

“It’s like you’re not even trying,” He then spoke to the crowd. “Is this your hero?”

“You’re getting weaker, L/n, you realize you come to school to actually learn.”

Your nostrils flared, his comments awoke something animalistic inside you that only wanted violence. “I’ve had enough!”

He sent a barrel, after barrel your way, you used the vanishing spell to wave them away with your wand.

You were fed up, you abandon your wand letting it fall to the ground as you pounce. You charge forward, tackling Sebastian to the ground, letting your hands punch and slap wherever they land. Not once did he stop you.

“Fight back!” You yell, “Fight back, you bastard, fight back, fight back, fight back!”

He didn’t block a single blow, it pissed you off even more. Your fist went in on his face and you heard a crack. You knew you felt pain in your knuckles where they landed but you were almost positive that it was just your hand that crunched from the impact.

This was absolutely not allowed in the dueling club, muggle fighting was seemingly more violent and frowned upon but you couldn’t find it in yourself to care. This was much more satisfying.

You saw red, not feeling the arms that attempted to pry you off of the boy who lay under you. It wasn’t until strong arms had listed you off, along with the others who had struggled to get you off themselves.

Nellie and Natty were on either side of you with arms hooked around your elbows, the only other person you can think of that would lift you like this had to be Garreth. He lets you go once you were done kicking and screaming.

Sebastian got up and touched his fingertips to his nose where blood had dripped onto his lip.

“You're the foulest loathsome being that I’ve ever had the displeasure of meeting” You shout. You pick up your wand from the ground and in your fury, you conjure 12 birds with the spell Avis and send them spiraling his way, “Oppugno!”

“Ms. L/n!” The tone of a strong male authoritative figure came up from the left door that goes up to the clock tower. The crowd, you now noticed, was scattered. Someone must have alerted him, Professor Sharp. Lucan ran the moment he saw Sharp, as did the other members of the club. “What is the meaning of this?”

No one spoke, Nellie, Natty, Garreth, Poppy who was just around the corner and as quiet as a mouse. You and Sebastian stood staring each other down with silent words you only knew that in your mind you were shouting how much you despised him.

“Saturday, Detention.” His words broke you and Sallow out of your hate-induced trance. “All of you, including you Ms. Sweeting.”

Chapter Text

“The behavior displayed by you this evening, Ms. L/n, was indecorous.” Sharp began his speech, “This unsanctioned dueling club you children believe to be secretive, as it happens, is not. The faculty is well aware of the illicit activities being held and while we may turn a blind eye to the extracurricular activity; to be informed of a physical altercation and that there was bloodshed-”

You couldn’t help the sly smirk that happened upon your face, highly unintentional, your facial features didn’t comprehend the lecture you were getting from your professor who- frighteningly enough- was an ex-Auror.

“I’m glad you are amused, Ms. L/n because you are stripped of your Hogsmeade privileges,” His eyes zeroed in on you, “And every Saturday for the rest of the semester you will be in the detention room executing the tasks given to you.”

Your jaw dropped, and you glance at Garreth whose hand is shyly raised. Seeing him reminded you- there went your Hogsmeade group dates.

“Mr. Weasley,” Professor Sharp acknowledges the boy who is fraught at his declaration.

Garreth gulps, “Sir, surely the punishment isn’t meant for all of us.” Traitor, you thought.

Professor Sharps turns his attention to the rest of your classmates, he had you all standing in a row, with you in the middle- the main culprit. Sebastian to your left and Poppy to the left of him, Natty to your right and Garreth to hers, Nellie at the end.

“As for Mr. Weasley, Ms. Onai, Oggspire, and Sweeting, you are all to serve detention on Saturday. You will still be able to attend the Samhain feast, unlike Ms. L/n who will be allowed to have her first two meals and will be serving her detention for the entirety of the day.” He gives you a pointed look. “That is all, the four of you are dismissed.”

Natty squeezes your hand goodbye as she walks away without a word, surely her mother would not be happy with her. Nellie, Garreth, and Poppy all give you winces and sympathetic glances as they leave.

Now you were piqued, your once free Saturdays were now taken up with one more thing that you did not need to be busy with, permission to go to Hogsmeade was gone- when you were already banned from leaving school grounds for anything else- how exactly were you going to put an end to the Death Reapers or at least stop them from taking any more people, when you were on lockdown. To top it off, the Samhain feast was off the table, you didn’t get to enjoy it last year because you were out helping Sebastian at a time when you and he weren’t even on good terms.

You risked Sharp’s wrath to ask, “Excuse me, Professor, but what about him?” You send your thumb in the direction of the brunet next to you.

“Surely, sir, I am the victim here,” Sebastian tries to manipulate. Thankfully, your favorite teacher- despite the circumstances- was not convinced.

“Surely, Mr. Sallow, you are not.” You can almost see the glint in the man's eyes as he says, “You are to join, L/n, every Saturday in a place you are not unfamiliar with. Do not think that I am not aware of the warring tension you both share in classes, particularly in Professor Hecat’s class. We are tired, and so as an exercise, you will be partnered in each task that is given.”

As if you didn’t see him everywhere you exhaled. He was going to hate you even more than he already does, and you were going to replay the memory of your fists in his face every five minutes to keep your sanity. Being near each other every other second of the day will drive you both mad.

You and Sallow were going to tear each other apart.

~~~

You stabbed at your plate of breakfast for the fourth time making the fork scrape against the plate making those around you grimace.

This morning you received an owl instructing you that you will report to Madame Scribner for your assignment today. The chatter of excitement around you makes your mood worsen, everyone will be having a grand time in the village with their friends and ending the night with the feast while you’d be in the library.

“Chin up, Y/n/n, It won't be so bad. Sallow’s known to make his detentions lively.” Garreth slides into the bench across from you. You were in a sour mood this morning, barely getting any sleep with the dread that when you woke up it wouldn’t be an exciting day at all, you couldn’t help but pout.

“Not bloody likely,” You drop the fork and push the plate away, it disapparated into thin air. You let your head fall onto your forearm that was on the table, staring at your lap. “You lucky little wanker, you only get one-half day of detention and you’re paired up with Nellie.”

“And?”

“And that’s hardly a punishment at all!” You throw your hands up half in the air with exasperation.

“Who told you to go all mental on Sebastian,” Garreth chided.

You inhaled sharply, Garreth was getting close to being on the list of people on your bad side for today, “He deserved it and you bloody well know it.”

Garreth raises his hands in surrender, “Save your hostility for your true enemies and not your caring friend who’s trying to make you feel better.”

That didn’t help his case, you sent daggers through your eyes, and with that, he eased his way up from the Slytherin table and scurried away from you before you turned him into a flubberworm.

Ominis finds you leaving the great hall and makes a beeline toward where his wand leads him, “Mind if I escort you to your cell?”

You chuckle darkly, “Keep to your family fortune Ominis, jesting is not your forte.”

“I only wanted to warn you about Sebastian,” He walks at a leisurely pace, you held no complaints knowing you wanted to stall your sentence as long as possible. You both went down the steps and out to the courtyard where you caught a glimpse of the cool autumn weather that you no longer have the privilege of enjoying in Hogsmeade.

“I can imagine he’s feeling vengeful right about now.”

He halted and faced you, “You know him, he’s-”

“A complete tosser?” You knew you were being excessively rude with the interruptions and insults, however, you could not bring yourself to care with your overwhelming annoyance.

“Sensitive, Y/n, he’s sensitive.” Ominis sighed, “He has his issues but he feels, deeply. Lets his anger get the best of him so often you forget that.”

Sensitive was not a word you would use to describe Sebastian, as emotional as he can get with the people he cares about, it was obvious that you were not one of them. ‘Sensitive’ was the word he wanted to use to tell you that he was going through something else. It feels like lately everyone was giving you justifications for Sebastian's actions and it didn’t make you feel any better. You didn't feel the need to hold back on him if he wasn't holding back on you. 

~~~

Madame Scribner informed you to meet her in front of the fireplace, she wasn’t present when you arrived, only the exact broad-shouldered lad you were cross with, leaning against the mantle twirling his wand.

“Aren’t you looking a little worse for wear,” Sebastian comments on your tired appearance. You took in his casual attire that was purposely disheveled and his face, you didn’t hold back the smile that graced your lips at the sight of him.

“Speak for yourself,” You didn’t need to motion for his bruised left eye and his swollen nose (that to your dismay only made him appear more rugged). “Did I do that? Looks like a herd of cattle stomped all over you.”

“Oh, this?” He pointed to his eye, “I wear this with pride.”

You quirked your brow in question, “And why is that?”

“I faced the great Y/n L/n and lived to tell the tale,” He wore a smug expression that made you want to rewind to yesterday and just strangle him.

“I’ll be sure not to hold back next time.”

“That is quite enough out of the pair of you.” Said the head librarian, Madame Scribner, a short stout woman who was of the more strict staff members of Hogwarts, had rounded a corner of a two-tier bookshelf. “Mr. Sallow, Ms. L/n, Professor Sharp has led you both into my care for the day and I shall have you both working with order. I have much to do and I’ve assigned you enough work, you should not have the time to bicker.”

“Now,” She waved as she began to walk. You and Sebastian followed the click of her heels to the second floor. “Your wands, if you may.” She held out her hand for the both of you to hand your only form of defense, you reluctantly turned yours in. “You are to sort scattered books onto their shelves, without magic. I've lifted the enchantments on the stacks so you will have no assistance. There are plenty of piles to keep you busy and should anyone need help, I trust that Mr. Sallow is well-versed within these walls.”

She pocketed both of your wands, both hands entwined in front of her, you can certainly say that you were intimidated by her sternness.

“I’ll be sure that all will be to your satisfaction, Madame Scribner,” Sebastian tells her, though, by her unimpressed stare, you could tell that she did not, in fact, trust him at all. She fixes her gaze on you as if expecting you to be the lead example.

You were sure to keep any reservations you had about working with Sebastian to yourself and manifested yourself to seem competent, if only so that she wouldn’t feel the need to check up on you or Sebastian. You would scurry away as quickly and as far away from Sallow as you could, when you did, you didn’t need the librarian to report you to Professor Sharp.

As soon as she felt satisfied with the lack of argument, she was off, leaving you, Sebastian, and stacks on stacks of books to sort. “Up for a little wager?” He spoke, fingering through the books.

You began to wonder if this was the fun Garreth spoke of.

“If I say that I'm in no mood for games?”

He shrugged, “I suppose that means we’re forced to work beside each other in agonizing silence so as not to disturb the many students in this acute learning environment.”

The library was empty, save for a handful of students that were either doing homework or studying. The sarcasm ran deep in his voice, it made you snort in an unladylike manner that had your hand flying to cover your face, solely on the fact that you didn’t want to laugh at any of his attempts at humor.

“Or,” He dared a step closer to tempt you, “We can work together without actually working together.”

“Please do be more vague,” Beginning to feel put out by his intimations.

“How about, the last person to finish sorting their books has to help the winner with the next assignment, pick up more of a load next time?”

“Working smarter not harder, I see.” It was a perfect solution, you didn’t have to be near each other, no bickering- no problem. The work will be done quicker this way.

“Always.”

“Fine,” You agreed.

And so the work began, Sebastian strolled over to the other side of the second floor. You started at the stained glass window section to the right of the spiral stairs. It was tedious work but you managed to gather all the books left on tables, the piles at the ends of the stacks, the ones left on the floor, and organized them into their separate sections to make it easier to sort them in their aisle.

That took two hours by how many there were, and as you stuffed them into their shelves you noticed how many of them were placed in the wrong section. So you gathered all the misplaced texts and added them to their appropriate pile, another hour passed.

As you made your last pile of books into sections on one of the large tables you noticed one that wasn’t included in the piles Madame Scribner had given you and Sebastian. It was an ancient looking one that didn’t look like it was supposed to be on the public side of the library. The book was black and the spine had intricate swirls which looked as if it was supposed to shape into skulls.

It was a book on the Dark Arts. You flipped through the pages, curious about what particular subject of dark magic it held; there were chapters and chapters of relics.

“Need any help?”

You were lost reading the pages from the book, Was Sebastian creeping around the restricted section again? If so, then why? And why would he read this so openly, surely he would have snuck it back into his dorm. 

You would have seen if he was in your area, you flinch and shut the book quickly, feeling caught. “No,” You blushed and recalled the question. “No, I’m alright, thank you.”

The bright-eyed Hufflepuff boys' eyes flickered to your tight clutch on the dusty old book, “Are you sure? I wouldn’t mind easing the load.”

“Trust me, I wouldn’t either but I wouldn’t want to be caught by Madame Scribner, if anything I should be working with my assigned partner.” You continue your work, settling the books on their appropriate shelf. “Serving my time and all that.”

“Oh,” He searched around the area you both were standing. “Sebastian Sallow, is it? I saw you with him earlier.”

You nodded, lifting a heavy stack of books, and moved with them to the right section, you didn’t want to do two separate trips to carry books. You almost tripped over your feet, with a huff you grabbed a chair, balanced on the seat tiptoeing to reach the upper tier of the shelf.

Vaugh took pity on you, grabbed the book you were struggling with, and easily tucked it in with the rest. “I won’t tell if you won’t,” He winked waving his wand, his magic levitating one of the piles and sending them off to where they belong.

“Thanks,” You lifted the next pile to move on to the other side of the shelf- the next aisle.

“Where is he, anyhow?”

As if summoning the devil himself, Sebastian appeared from the exact place you were headed, “He’s right here.” To your surprise, he grabbed six of the twelve books you had in your arms.

“You can bugger off now, Vincent.” Sebastian purposefully said Vaughn's name incorrectly. You didn’t appreciate how rude he was being to the boy who had been nothing but helpful.

Vaughn shrugged and smiled at you, “Give me a shout if you need anything.”

Sebastian glared as the boy walked away, his features were full of distaste, “One can’t ever seem to be rid of him.”

You readjust your grip on the books that were now less heavy thanks to Sebastian, you set them down on the desk in front of the shelf before placing them in empty slots in alphabetical order of surname. “He’s not bothering anyone, he was just trying to be helpful.”

“I find him bothersome,” He copies your movements, he was already done with his work. You were suspicious as to how but then remembered that he had years of being in this library, especially with his coming here in his spare time, you’ve only been here for a school year and a few months.

He eyed the last book laid on the table, you had purposefully placed it on the bottom of the stack and snatched it as you saw him reaching for it. “You find the air around you to be bothersome.”

“Oh darling, you couldn’t be more wrong, you see I love breathing- and not to mention the fact that oxygen is transparent, something he is so obviously not.”

The pet name made your heart flutter despite the obvious sarcasm he spoke it with, but his cryptic words puzzled you.

He tilted his head at the way you clutched the book to your chest, “Taking a page out of my book, are we?”

“I can’t say I know what you mean,” You looked at the book front and back as if you weren’t reading its pages just minutes ago.

“Dangerous topic that one.”

“Is this one you’ve read?” In your search for a cure… you wanted to say. He met your eye and was blown back by the questions in them.

He took a step in your direction and slipped the book out of your hands swiftly, opening it up, flipping through the pages with his thumb so it made an arch then shutting it. “It goes deep into the Dark Arts, but you already knew that.”

“Musn’t let Scribner catch you with that,” He set the book down on the desk more in your direction.

“I’m not keeping it, I found it here.” You pointed to the opposite end of the table you both were standing by.

“It’s alright if you’re curious,” He arched a brow, “I wouldn’t blame you, I mean look at who you’re talking to.”

“Ah yes,” You exaggerate your remembrance. “Forgive me, Sebastian ‘Master of the Dark Arts’ Sallow.”

His expression darkened covering his former amusement at his catching you with a forbidden book. Sebastian recovered his mask with a light tone, “Calling me a Master is a flattery I did not expect to receive from you today.”

“It’s simply a fact, I suppose. You must know all there is about Dark magic.”

Sebastian lifted a brow at your insinuation, “So what if I do?”

“You might know if there is a spell, an enchantment of sorts to enhance your magic.” You hoped he wouldn’t ask any questions about what you wanted to know, you should have known better.

“The great Y/n L/n wants to enhance her magic?” His voice echoed in the near-empty library from how loud he was. You put a hand over his mouth and a finger to your lips, and your eyes widened in a warning.

You released him at the realization of how intrusively close you got to him, “I want to know if it would be possible for wizards to do it, in theory.”

“In theory, if certain wizards were participating in the Dark Arts that in itself would be able to ‘enhance their magic’, was that the answer you were looking for?.” He held your gaze with an inquisitive stare, he wanted to ask but asking would cross over the line of being friends. “May I ask the reason behind your sudden interest in the subject?” His curiosity got the better of him.

“You just did,” You took the book from the desk. “I do not plan to share any of my thoughts with you of all people.”

Sebastian tutted, “And we were getting on so well.”

“If we must be in each other's company, we should endeavor to be as plain and straightforward with each other as possible.”

“As you are being now?” He smirks.

“If you didn’t make it a habit to be a nosy parker, it would be easier.” You glance at his side of the library and back at him, changing the subject. “You win.”

“I do, though I wouldn’t say it was fair, I had an advantage.”

You wished he would just take the win and get on with his gloating, you would have to go through with your end of the deal next Saturday anyhow. “Yes, and I had help, we’ll call it even.”

His lips quirked in annoyance, “Right.” He took the book from you once more, “I’ll return this to its rightful place before Scribner ever notices it’s gone.” Sebastian stalked off before you could protest.

~~~

“May I walk you to your common room?” Vaughn stands by the mermaid fountain as if he were waiting for you. It was well past the hour of the Samhain feast and you were planning on going down to the kitchens to beg the house elves for food. He had his arm open for you to hook your arm to his, and so you did, with his kindness earlier it felt rude to not accept.

You were tired from running back and forth, doing all kinds of errands for Madame Scribner, once you were done sorting books she had you and Sebastian busy work. With what you did today, you didn’t have to miss the feast, you realized that that was the point of the punishment.

You and Sebastian were forced to sit by each other during lunch, and not allowed to talk to anyone else, which felt childish but this was a part of the ‘bonding’ exercise so that there are no other altercations as there was last night.

Sebastian was frustratingly well-behaved around you after your conversation about the book, with no back-handed remarks or comments that made you want to hex him. He was decently pleasant while you, on the other hand, were the one to avoid him in his every attempt to talk to you even if it was a question on what Scribner had assigned you to do. You were convinced he simply enjoyed watching you squirm as he neared you.

You were surprised by how normal it felt to be walking with a boy whom you barely knew in complete silence, not feeling at all odd.

“How was the feast?” You felt the silence growing.

“It went well, I don’t know you well enough but I believe you would have enjoyed it.” He then began to describe the food that was served, the desultory speech Professor Sharp had made at the beginning, and how the ghosts that haunted the halls popped out of the student's food to give them a scare.

A pang of jealousy hit your heart, you wished you would have been there to enjoy it, “I feel I would have as well.”

For the rest of the walk to the Slytherin common room, the halls were quiet as he talked to you about his day and asked you about yours. He was patient with your responses and didn’t force any topics you weren’t comfortable with. The conversation was pleasant and without expectation, something you felt you had lacked recently and were glad of the change.

“As I’ve said, I am aware that we are not well acquainted, but I would like to” He stuttered a little as he spoke. “Be acquainted with you- as friends.”

You both stopped in front of the stone wall entrance of your common room, you let your arm fall from his, and you giggled at his nervousness “We can be friends.”

“Perfect,” He grinned.

“Well then,” Vaughn lifted your right hand and bowed midway, placing a kiss on your knuckles. Without warning your mind wandered to your half-dead state from weeks ago, when unidentified lips brushed the back of your hand, it wasn’t Vaughn but the same gesture made your heart flutter. “I bid thee goodnight, dear Y/n.”

“Goodnight,” You whispered back. You watched him walk up the grand steps at the same time Sebastian was walking down. Vaughn gave him a friendly wave, which he ignored. You rolled your eyes at his discourteousness and spoke the password to the wall, causing the snake to slither into an arch.

You walk through the entrance, not daring to look back as you hear Sebastian's footsteps come from behind you. They were fast-paced and loud, you didn’t stop until you reached the bottom.

You turned to face him last minute almost getting a face full of his chest, you didn’t let the sudden shock at how close he was, show on your face. “Yes?”

“Dear, Y/n?” He mocked Vaughn.

You guffawed, “Words I never thought would come out of your mouth.”

You loosened the laces of your boots and slipped them off, it made you lose a couple of inches of your height. “What is the problem now, Sebastian?” You sit on the couch in front of the fireplace closest to the girl’s dormitory.

“There is no problem,” The tightness in his voice said otherwise. “Only wondering when exactly you became best mates with the new sixth year.”

“Just now actually,” You didn’t care for his tone but you were too exhausted to put up much of a fight. “There’s nothing wrong with befriending a new student, you would know. As a matter of fact, you might even say he’s my new charge.”

Daggers shot from his eyes, “You think you’re real clever, don’t you?”

You had quite enough of this, you sighed as you pushed yourself off the plush seating. “I don’t think I’m clever, darling, I just am.” You emphasized the name he off-handedly called you earlier. “Last I recalled you weren’t supposed to care who I spend my time with.”

“I don’t,” He hissed and hesitated before mentioning “He appears everywhere you are.”

“Something you and he have in common.”

“Although you and I are often in the same area, I can assure you that it is not intentional, and I do not stalk as he does.” The tension in your argument had dissolved as you let out an exasperated laugh at the memories of Sebastian indeed stalking across Hogwarts grounds, though not in the way he intended the word for Vaughn.

“You should see the way you, the ghosts as my witness.”

He lets out a breath, “I’ve had enough of ghosts, thank you.”

You remember Peeves following you and Sebastian into the depths of the restricted section, right as you both were about to enter the Athenaeum when Sebastian took the punishment of detention for the both of you. Pesky Peeves, you thought.

“As have I,” You took your boots from the floor and a step back in the direction of the girl’s dormitory, “If we’re all settled then.”

Sebastian nodded, “Yes.”

“Goodnight.”

“Goodnight,” He responded in a tight tone, the collar of his shirt seemed to be choking him from his neck.

You stifled a smile as he stalked away to the boy’s side of the common room.