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kawaiidoodles95-blog · 4 months

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The Stranger Stampy Circus: Chapters 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

The (basically) first half of a long series I am making!

NOTICE: This is 11+! Throughout this story, there will be light mentions of blood, death, war, darker humor, and violence. While nothing here is explicit, if this bothers you in any way, keep on moving. Also, chapter 4 has a semi-explicit death. Trust me. I won't be mad.

AN: I am making this not only on here but on google docs. This is a crossover between Stranger Things, Stampy's Lovely World, The Amazing Digital Circus, and Wonka. Each chapter will have a name of one of the characters (or main POV's I refer to them as,) and whoever's name is on the chapter title is the person narrating the chapter.

Anyways, enjoy TSSC!

Chapter 1: Stampy

“So, Stampy, where are we going exactly?” My friend William Beaver asked. “Not quite sure, truthfully. I guess we are just going to have to find a place to settle down,” I shrugged. Hello, my name is Stampy! I was the owner of Lovely World, until my nemesis took over it. I am bringing my dogs and helpers with me to somewhere new to settle down. “Stampy, there is a beautiful place in the mountains around 4 miles from here,” Polly said, looking at the GPS. “That’s perfect,” I said, “We will have some leverage.”

We continued walking, until my dog Barnaby stopped. He sniffed around the ground a bit. “Boy, what are you doing?” I asked, kneeling down. Barnaby proceeded to start digging up the dirt. “I think he found something,” Fizzy examined. “You think? I think it’s pretty dang obvious,” Polly frowned. Barnaby stopped digging, and started barking at the hole. “What is my silly dog doing?” I murmured. A portal suddenly then erupted from the ground, and we all leaped backwards.

I blinked a few times, dirt in my eyes from the sudden eruption. The portal neither looked like a Nether or End portal. It was Bright red with gray gravel surrounding it. It was in the shape of a circle. Red lightning flashed from it, and ash started coming out. “WHAT DID YOU DO???” William cried at Barnaby. I reached my hand out to touch the portal. “Uhm, Stamps, I wouldn’t touch that if I were you,” Polly said. Suddenly, a vine came out and wrapped around my wrist, and dragged me into the portal. I started screaming, and when I looked behind me, my friends were not too far behind.

I woke up shortly after. “Guys..?” I called out for them. I had a loud cough, and what came out was ash… the same ash from the portal. When I looked around, everything was dark cyan. The ‘trees’ were all dead, bare as bone. There was no grass on the ground.

“Stampy? Is that you?”

I flung around and looked behind me. Right there was my nemesis’s coworker Veevadash. “YOU- You built this portal didn’t you? To trap me?” I asked. I held up my sword. “N-no… Stampy, I am just as confused as you are,” Veeva frowned. “Well then how did you find me and get here?” I murmured. “I followed you. I left Hit the Target to join you guys,” Veeva explained. “You promise,” I asked. She nodded her head, and I slowly put my sword away. Suddenly, William, Polly, and Fizzy came running to me with the dogs.

“Stampy! Are you alright? What’s Veeva doing here?” My helpers asked. “I don’t know. But she promised me she wasn’t working with Hit the Target, and that she randomly ended up here too because she wanted to join us,” I explained, still skeptical. “Alright…” Polly frowned. I held out my hand for a handshake, and Veeva surprisingly took it.

“Ok, so now what?” William asked. “We befriended your arch nemesis’s spy, so already we have plans to die.” I shrugged, then glanced at Fizzy, who was crying. “Fizzy, what is wrong?” I asked. “I WANT COOKIES! I HAVEN’T HAD ONE IN HOURS AND I AM LOSING IT!” He screamed. “That sounds like an addiction,” Veeva commented. “I just shook my head and laughed. “Polly, do you have any ideas, because we are striking out. “Well, I suggest we start looking for an exit before we-” she started.

“And who might you be?”

Chapter 2: Vecna

I looked at the five strange people in front of me. One was an orange cat with green eyes, white boots, and a diamond sword. Next to him on his right was a reindeer with pink overalls and blood red eyes. Next to them was I guess the most normal of the group, a human girl with black hair and an outfit that I think might be inspired off of imperial Chinese clothing. To the orange cat’s left was a beaver with diamond clothes and an elephant who had golden pants.

“Damn,” I said, “You guys must be rich.” The orange cat shook their head. “No. By the way, my name is Stampy,” he said. “I am Polly,” said the reindeer. The human just gave a good confused look at me and said, “Vee…va?” I think she was confused because I look human… except for the fact that I am covered with vines and have a giant flipping claw. “My name is William,” added the Beaver. “I…am…Fizzy,” the elephant cried, choking on tears in between words.

“What’s wrong with that one?” I asked Stampy, pointing at the Elephant. “He has an addiction to cookies, and he has been deprived of them for hours,” Stampy explained to me. “I can tell. Anyways, I am Vecna, and welcome to the Upside Down. I rule this place,” I explained. “What kind of stupid name is that?” Veeva asked. “Which name? My kingdom or my name,” I asked back. “Uhm, both,” she said. “Trust me, Ma’am, I agree. But some D&D obsessed teenagers called it that, and now my script says I have to call it that,” I frowned.

“So… what is this place?” Fizzy asked. “And are there cookies here?”

I sighed. “No, Fizzy, there aren’t cookies. “Then what use are you to me?!” He cried. “Would you like to be alive?” I asked him. He nodded quickly and then shut up.

Oh boy, I thought, I was in for a treat.

I led them inside of my castle, and showed them around. “While you stay here, guys, just… don’t touch anything,” I explained. They all quietly nodded in agreement. “Good. Anyhow, I hope you enjoy your stay, you will be here for a while,” I said. I smacked a wall, and a hidden door opened up. I heard a few “oooh”’s and “ahhh”’s coming from the group. “Thanks for the rooms,” Stampy said while looking at the beds. I just shrugged. “No problem I guess.”

That night, I went up to my best friend, Moriss. “New guests?” He asked. “Yeah, new guests,” I said. “We keep getting those. We first had the Squishmallows, and now we have these furries-” Moriss started. “They aren’t furries… I don’t think, but they sure are freaks of nature if I do say so myself,” I said. “Henry, do you realize what you look like?” He responded. “Right. I shouldn’t be so judgmental. I guess we should all be accepting, it’s why I made the Upside Down a town in the first place,” I smiled, looking out the window.

-+*~*+-

The next morning, I heard the LOUDEST screaming coming from Stampy’s room. I raced downstairs, burst the door open, and ran inside. “Uhm, what’s going on?” I asked. “We are having a pillow fight,” Fizzy grinned. “WHY IN GOD’S NAME WERE YOU SCREAMING?” I cried. “Don’t blame us,” Veeva said, “Fizzy was mostly screaming. We kept telling him to stop, but he wouldn’t.” I just shook my head in disbelief. “You guys are insane,” I frowned. I just walked back upstairs to sleep just a bit more.

“AHHHHHHH! AHHHHHHHHHH!”

“FIZZY! KEEP IT DOWN! “I WANT COOKIES!”

This was gonna be a long day.

Chapter 3:Pomni

Today was the last day in the office before Christmas break. We were celebrating with hot cocoa, cookies, and a gift exchange. My coworkers are Jasper, Rianna, “Zoob,” Gaipha, Kayon, and Cain, who is also my boyfriend. “I GO FIRST!” Jasper called out. “No, Jasper, our boss Cain decides who goes first,” Rianna sighed. “Oh c’mon Raggedy Ann, he’s too busy with Pomni sleeping on his shoulder,” Jasper grinned. At that moment, I woke up.

“Huh? What? I was sleeping?” I asked. “Like a rock,” Zoob added. Everyone giggled a bit. “Ah, my dear, why don’t you open your present first?” Cain smiled. He went to the tree, and picked up a present, handing it to me. I quickly scrambled to open it, and what was…

“A red button?”

Jasper raised his hand. “Erm… I was your secret santa, but I didn’t give you that. “Are you sure?” Gaipha asked. “That sounds like something you’d buy.” I was examining the red button with awe. It was a long thin tube, the size of a pointer finger. The button had lightning and clouds inside of it, and it was strangely menacing.

“Jasper, if you didn’t get me this, then HOW did it end up here?” I asked. “Not sure, Pomni. I think you should press the button, anyway. What’s the worst that could happen?” Jasper grinned. “I mean, there are a lot of terrible things that could happen,” Kayon commented, “A nuclear explosion, setting off asteroids, abstrac- you know what, I am not going to say it.” I nodded my head. Cain looked at me, then the button, then back at my eyes. “Well, it’s your choice.”

“You can press the button if you want. Or you can leave it. It’s your secret santa.” I held my breath. “I’m gonna do it,” I said, and I pressed the button.

And that was the last I felt or saw before I woke up.

-+*~*+-

“Pomni, POMNI!” Cain called, shaking my elbow. “What!? Where are we?” I asked as I jolted upwards, looking in all directions. Next to me were Rianna and Jasper, who seemed to have been transported too.

But none of my other co-workers were there.

“Where are the others..?” Rianna mumbled as she rubbed her head. “Not sure,” I responded. She pulled her trusty butcher knife out of her pocket. “Whoa, dollface! Slow down! We don’t want to scare whoever lives in the area,” Jasper said sarcastically. “Jasper, nobody lives here. This is a barren, blue, dead, wasteland of a place,” I frowned. “Truth be told, I am not sure this is safe to breathe in,” Cain added, “It’s filled with giant chunks of ash, we could suffocate if we breathe this stuff in.” Jasper rolled his eyes. “Thanks for the confidence, I definitely feel confidence-d.”

After looking around for a little while, we stumbled upon a massive chapel. “Good heavens, that’s gorgeous,” Rianna breathed.

“It is, isn’t it?”

My friends and I screamed and jumped together. A weird vine man stared at us with a sleepy orange cat on his shoulders. The man had menacing black, circular eyes. The orange cat had his eyes half-open, as he was trying to stay awake. He had green eyes, purplish gray boots, and a diamond sword. “Nice to meet you,” The man smiled, holding out his vine-covered claw, “I am Vecna.”

“So you are here to help us?” I asked politely. “Yep! You aren’t my first visitors. I will show you around.”

Chapter 4: Hit The Target.

“So, this is where Stampy left me to die?”

I looked around the strangely colorful ‘outside,’ with a circus tent in the distance. I walked on the obviously game textured grass, and looked around. On my right were some small mountains. On my left was a lake with a sign that said “DROWN IN THE DIGITAL LAKE -Caine <3.” I snarled. “Don’t mind if I do. Won’t be the first time I do. I just… need to find an exit. Then I can get my revenge.” I looked around. Shrugging, I just continued walking to the circus.

The circus was also empty. Just a colorful menagerie. A lot of shapes, blocks, and slides scattered around. “What the h-” I said, but something spread across my mouth. “D(CENCOR) it! I CAN’T EVEN SWEAR WITHOUT THIS THING ON MY MOUTH MAKING IT ‘CHILD FRIENDLY!’” Suddenly, I felt a splash of pressure on my eyes. It felt like something was pushing against it, wanting to come out.

“AUGHH! I WANT TO LEAVE!” I screamed, my voice echoing against the walls. The pressure was only getting worse, and I shut my eyes out of instinct. I proceeded to run blindly into a wall. I finally had the ability to talk, but then… I was censored from what I wanted to say.

I walked around the giant room, through what felt like endless halls, just trying to find some way to leave. It felt like an eternity. There was a hallway with what I assume were living quarters, because they had images of strange people on them. Though, some of the faces were crossed out. “This place is giving me the creeps…” I murmured. I found a set of keys conveniently on the floor, and opened one of the crossed out face’s doors.

“WHAT THE HECK!”

In the room, there were distorted pictures of the character with red paint saying “EXIT” all over it. I screamed and ran out of the room, tears starting to form in my eyes. For once I felt… fear. It was odd. “I JUST WANT TO LEAVE!” I yelled to the heavens. “WHY CAN’T I!?” The pressure is so bad, my eyes felt as if they were going to burst. The vision around my peripherals started dimming with weird glitchy splotches. I then collapsed on the floor, and felt as if my body was breaking.

I crawled over and barely stood up to look into the closest mirror I could find, and screamed once more. The right half of my face was turning black and glitching. Black gooey deer antlers emerged from my head, and I fell backwards on the floor. “WAS THIS WHAT YOU HAVE BEEN PLANNING THIS WHOLE TIME, STAMPY? TO LET ME DIE ALONE IN A DIGITAL PURGATORY FOREVER?” I barely choked out. I closed my eyes, and held my breath. I watched as my entire vision went black, and all I felt was breaking away.

“Goodbye, world. I will come back one day, though. Cross my heart and hope to… die…”

Chapter 5: Stampy

(A day later)

I looked at Pomni, then at the rest of the group. Now we have a whole lot of people; Me, Vecna, Fizzy, Polly, William, Veeva, Pomni, Caine, Ragatha, and Jasper. “Pomni, my dear, what was that ping for?” Caine asked. “Apparently someone abstracted,” Pomni muttered. “I feel like I missed something, what’s abstracting?” Vecna asked, shaking his head. “Well… it’s the process of dying in our video game. The longing and want to leave drives people to the brink of madness, causing them to become this glitchy distorted form,” Ragatha explained. “Holy moly! That’s a bad way to go,” I frowned, my ears lowering and my tail between my legs.

“Did ANY of you bring cookies? I am gonna commit mass murder and overthrow the U.S government if you don’t give me one RIGHT NOW,” Fizzy threatened. “Holy shoot, Fizzy! NO! We did not bring cookies, and you are NOT overthrowing the government,” Jasper snapped. “Since when did you care about the government, authority, and it being overthrown?” Pomni teased. “Guys, guys. SHUT THE HECK UP. Who did this abstracting thing?” Vecna asked. Pomni looked at her watch which I assume gives notifications about the game. It was red and blue; the same colors of her skirt. It had a very shiny finish. Looking closely, every one of her colleagues had the same kind of watch.

“Apparently the one who abstracted was a guy on the Digital Circus server by the name of Hit the Target,” Pomni said. My pupils shrunk, and I realized what I did. I banished HTT (his initials) somewhere, but I didn’t know where. But now I do. Whatever this “Digital Circus” world was… it killed him. “He… died? But he’s already dead,” Veeva mentioned. “Stampy killed him once.” I looked at her. “But I resurrected him,” I said, giving a counterpoint. “So what? He’s a green zombie, he still can’t die!” Veeva explained. “But this is a video game,” Vecna said, “video game logic isn’t the same as real life logic.” I nodded, remembering all of my times in MINECRAFT when I almost died.

-+*~*+-

Everyone was eagerly talking while the dinner was passed around. There was a big, juicy chicken. Everyone dug into that, while Vecna, the head of the table, took bites out of his food that no human ate. I stared at everyone, eating. Though I wasn’t hungry. I still felt guilt for HTT’s death despite all the pain he caused. He killed my dogs, kidnapped me and my helpers, almost blew up my lovely world… I don’t know. I just felt bad.

Chapter 6: Vecna

After dinner, everyone went to bed… except for me. How could someone die such a horrible death? I mean, I have experienced some horrific deaths, but how did that specifically happen? I know it’s video game logic, however, this is different. This person is actually dead.

“Hello?”

“I mean, what if I got stuck there? Good god, I am horrified just THINKING about it!” I cried in my mind

“Erm, sir..?”

“What if one of my citizens got stuck there, and we didn’t know?! I can’t sleep!” I kept thinking.

“SIR!”

I snapped out of my thoughts, and frantically looked around. “WHO THE HECK SAID THAT?” I screamed, grabbing a knife from the table and standing up. I kept looking around, but couldn’t see who it was. I finally looked down, and there it was. A small orange man with green hair stood in front of me. “Who the fudge are you?” I frowned. “I am Lofty, and I need your help,” The small man said. “Man, your voice is much lower than I expected…” I muttered. “Anyways, what do you need?” He gave me this look that said he meant no funny business. “So you know that portal room you have?”

-+*~*+-

“So which portal do you need?” I asked. “Type in the word ‘Wonka.’ Don’t ask questions about the name, got it?” Lofty asked. “Alright,” I shrugged. I typed in the word, and a brown portal opened. It looked like chocolate swirls. I, though, couldn’t savor the look for long, because I was suddenly sucked in. Just like what I have heard the other’s experiences were, I woke up shortly after.

My face felt fuzzy, so I reached out to touch it. “OH WOW, I BECAME MY HUMAN FORM AGAIN!” I grinned. I leaped onto my feet, as I also realized I was now wearing 1800’s clothes. “I feel so victorian! I am a Victorian boy!” I screamed to the heavens while bouncing around like an idiot. “AHEM. We don’t have much time to waste, my good sir. He could die,” Lofty interrupted. “OH. OK,” I said. Scrambling back onto my feet, I caught up to him on the rescue mission

“So who are we saving anyway?” I asked, walking into the chocolate chapel or whatever the heck Lofty called it. “We are saving a boy named Willy,” he responded. He proceeded to grab a rock off the ground. “What will you be using that for? You’re gonna be breaking some stuff, aren’t you,” I sighed. “Yep. I will be breaking some skulls just in case,” he said, picking up more rocks. I just glared at him.

After he was done picking up rocks for what felt like 3 minutes, he looked at me. “You break into the downstairs and deactivate the chocolate mechanism,” he instructed. “Look, why don’t I just use a rock to break that glass right there?” I asked. Lofty looked past me, and shrugged. “Sure, but that’s the easy route. Why not a challenge?” I ripped a rock out of his hand, and pummeled it into the glass. “Hopefully that didn’t kill anyone,” I smiled. Suddenly, I saw a hand stick out of the broken glass dome. I ran over to see what it was.

I helped the boy out of the tank. He looked to be at MOST four years younger than me. He had fuzzy brown hair, light brown eyes, a baggy ripped blue shirt, and some tan pants. “H-hi…” he murmured. I quickly grabbed him because he looked like he was going to faint. He was covered in chocolate, which I struggled not to lick off, because that would just be really weird and uncomfortable. So I sadly didn’t. “Thanks… I am Willy.” He smiled slightly at me, and I smiled back a bit. “Come on, let’s get you home,” I said.

Chapter 7: Willy

I assume I passed out, because I woke up some time later, on a couch. The guy who saved me was sitting there, next to me, looming over. “Erm… hi again,” I waved. “Hey. Are you alright? You just fell asleep in my arms, so I had to carry you back here,” the guy asked. “Yeah,” I smiled, “where am I?” He looked around, then grinned. “Welcome to the Upside Down, more specifically, this is my castle! My name is Lord Vecna, but you can just call me Vecna,” He exclaimed.

“I got saved by ROYALTY?” I thought.

Suddenly, an orange cat and a brown haired girl walked past. “Hey Vecna, did you pick someone up while you were out?” the orange cat teased. “NO! I just saved this person, Stampy. Second, HE IS A BOY!” Vecna yelled. “Vecna, everyone knows you are Bi. Your closet is made out of the clearest glass possible,” the girl added. “SHUT UP, POMNI! YOU BOTH GO UPSTAIRS!” Vecna commanded. “Fine, DAD, whatever,” Stampy grinned, as the two ran upstairs giggling. “Anyways, thank you for saving me,” I smiled. “No problem. I mean to ask… how did you get stuck in that chocolate tank anyway?” Vecna asked.

“Well, it was at night when I was asleep. Something came into my window and dragged me out of my room. Since it was dark and it was ink black, I couldn’t see what took me. All I could see were glitchy glowing spots. It took me into the downstairs of the chocolate chapel thing, turned on the chocolate release, and the entire room started slowly flooding with chocolate. I couldn’t get a good look at him before he left,” I explained.

“Good lord,” Vecna frowned, “That’s terrible.” I sighed. “It is, but luckily it’s gone for now.”

Vecna led me to my room, and it was MASSIVE. It had a king size bed with curtains all around. A giant closet and dresser was next to it. On the ceiling was an ornate chandelier made with real diamond. On the back wall was a beautiful bathroom, an indoor garden with peculiar plants, a desk, and a strange contraption that washed clothes automatically. “Wow! This is gorgeous and ornate! This is like heaven compared to the room I was in,” I smiled as I flew onto the plush mattress of the bed that did NOT break.

“What was your previous room like?” Vecna asked. “It was a closet. A bucket that served as a toilet, a dirt faucet that mud came out of, and a broken bed that I barely fitted in. And believe me, I am small,” I giggled. “Yikes, that’s rough,” Vecna said. “It was,” I responded, “but at least I am now here…”

“Willy? WILLY?” I heard someone say.

“What’s wrong?” I asked, opening my eyes. “Oh thank god you were only asleep. You scared me again,” Vecna sighed. “Sorry, I sleep heavily,” I lightly smiled. “No, no it’s fine, I just-” Vecna started. He shook his head. “Nevermind.”

I headed downstairs for lunch. There were amazing “subs” (as I came to find out they were called,) all perfectly in rows on the giant table. When I sat at the table, I put a jar of chocolates on it. “If you guys want, you can have some chocolate. Except for you, Stampy,” I smiled. “I know,” he laughed. “Oh, yes! I forgot to introduce the new member of our party. This is Willy… what’s his last name… Wonka?” Vecna said, introducing me to the group of 9 people. They all waved at me and smiled. Immediately, we all dug into the delicious warm sandwiches.

“Finally,” I thought, “Some actual freaking food.”

That's all for now! I hope you enjoyed so far.

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violetsditsyrainbow · 1 year

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Welcome home: a picnic welcome (TK and fluff storyline) pt.3

If you want scenes in here, request!

“ITS A HOUSE THATS ALIVE!!??” I say, “yep” violet responds nonchalantly “we have about 5”she says “five wha-“ “3..2..” “VI Y/N THE PICNIC IS READY!!!!” HOW DOES SHE KNOW?!? Violet gives me a proud look. “Well lead us there” i say wanting to see meet my new neighbors, “THEY CANT WAIT TO MEET YOU!” that’s good to know. Oh wait is that the picnic area it looks very welcoming. The people there look very interesting to say the least. A big blue dog a man who looks like he likes to stare at people, a gray guy look very cranky a caterpillar human thing and an orange guy who looks way too energetic a big bird woman and a girl with a sun for a head, I already love it here. “Y/N LET ME INTRODUCE YOU TO YOUR NEW FRIENDS!!” Julie says as she grabs my arm and starts running for them. “Woooah!” She’s going fast, I see violet running next to us with a dorky grin. “HEY GUY HERES THE NEW NEIGHBOR, Y/N!” Julie yells, “hello zseCveveryone I am y/n it is nice to meet you all!” I say. enthusiastically. The first person to introduce themselves to me is the orange man, “hello, im Eddie it’s wonderful to meet you!” He grabs my hand and shakes it with a even dorkier grin than violet “hello Eddie.” he’s just a bit taller then me. Now that I notice a couple people are. The dog, the grey man, violet, the bird woman, and the caterpillar. Hmm interesting. “Hello neighbor im Wally” he’s short… “hello wally” I don’t crouch but I do lean a bit to shake his hand. Then the blue dog walks over… I have to look up to make proper eye contact… he reaches his hand out for me to shake “havent even told ‘ya m’name and you’re already looking up to me?” He lets out a hearty chuckle I also hear one from violet “😐😒” “okay okay I’m barnaby! Nice to meet cha!” “Nice to meet you as well barnaby.” The girl with the sun for a head came up “Hello! I’m sally! It’s wonderful to meet you new friend!” “Wonderful to meet you aswell sally” then the big bird lady approached me looking nervous “hello I’m poppy” she offers a… wing? Talon? For me to shake, and this time I was the one shaking energetically I wanted her to know he didn’t have to be shy around me, and I think she got the message because she looked surprised that first but then looked greatful. I looked behind me to see Julie and Eddie trying to push the gray guy over to me to try and get him to introduce himself. “Hello my name is y/n” I say as I walk over to him and offer him a handshake and he takes it “my names frank” in a grouchy tone, but I think he was relieved I wasn’t super energetic “OK LETS EAT!”

#welcome home fanfic #welcome home #welcom home oc #welcome home wally #welcome home tickles #welcome home julie #welcome home violet #welcome home barnaby #welcome home eddie #welcome home poppy #welcome home sally

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starsandthorn · 3 years

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oh shit barnaby???

#personal stuff #thorn watches oxventure #RIP????#cant believe next heist they'll be stealing barnaby damn #egbert [handshake] barnaby: getting kidnapped by ominous women #ALSO YEA FLASHBACK TO ''Nothing bad has ever happened to me in my entire life it's not about to start now'' hows that feel bud

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the-al-chemist · 3 years

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helllllo!!!!!!!!!! can i get a directors cut on any chapter or scenes in the second half of year 3, whichever ones u want!!!! alright cool, peace out girl scout!!!!!:)

Oh hey gal pal!! 💛 Absolutely. Crackalacking. Thanks for even asking. Now, because I know how much you love Tulip, I’m going with the chapter Keys. Again, it’s long, we will go through a whistle-stop tour of the highlights. (Amendment: It wasn’t whistle-stop. This is LONG. I’m so sorry. Feel free not to finish this.)

First, I’m starting with the chapter title, because I am still proud of myself for this 😂 I decided pretty much straight away that dismantling Tulip’s dungbomb was a pretty stupid task, and that it would take more than just this to persuade her. I replaced it with the frog choir TLSQ, to try and get that into the storyline in a realistic way. Keys relates to the keys to Tulip’s padlock, and musical keys. We’ll come onto those later.

“I like her. She’s a right laugh,” said Tonks, as the girls carried their Puffapods through the greenhouses in their first Herbology lesson of January. “She let me colour her hair last summer and she lent me a dungbomb after Filch confiscated all my Zonko’s goodies.”

I love the friendship between Tonks and Tulip. They are the living embodiment of chaos. I loved the idea of Tulip’s hair not being naturally the bright red colour we see in canon. It makes sense, because it’s not a natural looking shade of red, especially with her being of Japanese descent, and because of her character. She’s a teenage girl rebelling against strict parents - of course she’s going to dye her hair the most obnoxiously bright colour she could think of. It also let me have a little red herring in year 2 - the dark haired girl Artemis sees talking to Merula in Chapter 7 is Tulip, before she dyed her hair. And why have Tonks do it? The idea of Tonks dyeing Tulip’s hair is just hilarious to me for some reason, that’s why.

“I just do. I’d never really thought about why,” Barnaby said, and he tilted his head to one side like a puppy. “But she did say if I helped her find the Cursed Vaults before you she’d make me the most powerful wizard at Hogwarts.”

“And you believed that?” Rowan raised her eyebrows.

“Well,” Barnaby looked confused again. “Why would she lie?”

“Because she wants you to make her look more powerful,” Rowan replied. “Because you’re muscly and good at duelling.”

“You think I’m muscly?” Barnaby smiled and looked at his upper arms as if he’d never seen them before.

I read somewhere ages ago that assigning an animal to a character helps with characterisation. Artemis is a cat. Everything she does is catlike. It started as foreshadowing of her Animagus form, but actually it ended up becoming engrained in her character. Barnaby is a puppy. Specifically a big chunky Labrador puppy. I also base his character on Joey from friends, but I also think if Joey from friends as a Labrador puppy, to the point that if I ever get a Labrador, it’ll be called Joey. Anyway, I digress. The line about Barnaby’s arms made me snigger as I wrote it.

“Chester Davies, he’s a seventh year Ravenclaw prefect. He’s in the Frog Choir and the school orchestra, too. He’s a pianist.”

“He’s a what, now?”

“A pianist, Artemis,” said Rowan, tutting and rolling her eyes as Tonks began to snigger loudly. “As in someone who plays the piano. Honestly...”

Penis jokes will never not be funny.

“You must be Artemis,” he said, holding out his hand for Artemis to shake, which she did. He was tall, as tall as Bill, with high cheekbones, and dark hair and eyes, and a serious and slightly tired looking face. “I’m Chester. Penny Haywood said you’re auditioning for the spare spot in the Frog Choir this evening.”

“That’s right,” said Artemis, taking her hand back from him. It felt warmer than it had before.

Chester Davies is a hottie. Don’t @ me, okay. I just love me a man with a piano. Judging by Artemis’ reaction to that handshake, so does she.

“No, we just need to change the key for you, that’s all,” he moved his hands down the piano keyboard, and played the same melody on a different set of keys. This time it sounded deeper, darker. “Can you sing it down here?”

Aha. The various meanings of keys! Like I said, I’m super proud of this connection. And I love one word names for chapters, they just have something so powerful about them. As for Artemis’ voice, I’ve said it before that her voice claim is my fourteen year old niece. Her voice is really soulful and beautiful, but not the classic Disney princess voice that girls assume they should have. It suits Artemis down to the ground.

Artemis watched, transfixed, her eyes following his hands in the same way that Fergus’ eyes might follow spots of light moving on the floor, as his fingertips danced on the keys, making each one sing out a different note. Forget spells, or potions, or flying; this was magic.

There she is, being a cat. And there are those keys again. Really, though, this just showcases her love of music.

“There was a Muggle who used to live on a boat behind my house. Reggie. He had all these big circle things called records, and he used to play them for me. Jacob had some records, too, and our Grandma, when I was little. She was a Muggle, too.”

“Could she sing?”

“Yes, it was her job.”

Reggieeeeeee!!!! I’m referencing him here because I don’t want people to forget about him. He’s going to come back one day, because I love him. Probably not until year 7, but I might be able to fit him into year 6. I’m not sure yet. But either way, he’ll be back. And there might be a surprise. As for Artemis’ grandmother Mavis, she was always written to be a Muggle. I’d already published this before I came up with Ophelia, so she became a Squib instead. But, it’s not relevant here. Mavis lived as a Muggle, she never revealed her Squib identity, even to her granddaughter. There’s a lot the Hexleys keep to themselves, really. As for Mavis’ fate, she got senile in her old age and lived in an old people’s home. Artemis visited her a lot when she was young. She passed away sometime between Leander’s mysterious death in the Department of Mysteries and Jacob’s disappearance. God, those Hexleys aren’t a lucky bunch, are they?

“She used to sing that song to me,” she said quietly, still not looking at Artemis, “the one you sang for your audition. She used to say it was my song, just for me.”

I never name the song Artemis sings for her audition, but this is the clue to what it is. If you didn’t know, Merula is the Latin word for blackbird. The song “Blackbird” by the Beatles is really special to me, because I sang it myself at my friend’s wedding while they signed the register. (Disclaimer - I’m not a brilliant singer, we’d just finished university and they were on a really tight budget) It’s also links to a recurring theme in my writing of love and freedom. I’m a Pullman girl, through and through - what Percy Jackson is to you, His Dark Materials is to me. Seriously, half my work is plagiarised from HDM, including Artemis’ face.

“That was really kind,” she said. “Maybe Tonks is right to trust you, after all. I’ll give you my key. And I’ll help you get the other key off Merula.”

Tulip is a bit of a softie at heart. And this is why I think the frog choir task makes more sense in this storyline than the dungbomb. Tulip’s best friend was Merula before they fell out. It’s no wonder she wants to test Artemis and see if she can trust her - Merula would have told her all about how awful that Hexley is! This moment is Tulip coming to realise that she made the wrong choice of friend in Merula, and that she deserves friends that appreciate her for who she is, something that develops in the next chapter when she encounters her Boggart.

#al speaks #directors cut game #the hexley saga #artemis hexley

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barnabyjr · 3 years

Note

your mc and barnaby are so cute!!!! pick any 6 you haven't answered yet :)))

tyty the lee family is unmatched

1. Who can’t help but laugh when the other does something funny?

ME i find everything barn says and does in game just completely endearing and funny

4. Who is more likely to give the other a forehead kiss?

my weakness barnaby would give the sweetest forehead kisses and at all moments like just constantly

7. Who gets excited when their partner says they can do their hair?

barnaby i hc him as being obsessed with head scratches

11. Who is more likely to high five the other person?

me lmao my natural reflex is always to high five after sex ahahaha

12. Do they have a secret handshake? If so, what is it?

hell fucking yeah they do. it's definitely over complicated and they mess it up every single time but it's their thing

15. Who is more likely to build a pillow fort?

it's a pillow castle and they're making it together

#do you like how i switch between calling first and third person while talking about my mc #it's literally just me #this is fanservice for myself at this point

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lexrius · 4 years

Text

The Wolf

AN: This is the first fic in the Dragon’s Mate series. Series needs a new name though as I re-do the fic.

------

I sat in my office as I began writing my report for our last investigation. I played with my quill as I finished the report with a sigh. I looked back to the letters that were delivered to me days prior from me getting back to the office. One from my mom telling me about her and dad’s latest adventures; Chiara with her updates about her life and Talbott finally proposing and even one from Ben who has been very quiet these last few years. I looked at the photo from our sixth year. Everyone was happy, playing in the snow, and even some stolen kisses underneath the mistletoe. The memories flooded back to me like a stab in the heart. Penny and Bea’s falling out. Mine and Barnaby’s break up. Finding R and my brother. Rowan….. I sighed and thought back to my happier memories.

Charlie and I’s first date. Rowan and I getting excited for Quidditch. Winning the Quidditch Cup. I sighed as I look at those letters and looked back five years ago when we entered our last year at Hogwarts. The smiles and tears we all had. The heartfelt goodbyes. Everyone going their own ways. I had chosen to become an auror; getting a job in America. Separated from my home, my friends, and my love. I looked at the pile of letters and smiled at the most recent one. My Barn Owl, Athena, preened her feathers as she settled on my desk. My eyes scanned the letter with a light smile.

My dearest Viper,

I know that was pretty sappy, but you know I’m not very good at writing love letters. How have you been? It’s been a couple of months since any of us had heard from you. Here at the sanctuary we received a new little one! He’s a beautiful ridge-back we named Gary. We’re thinking of pairing him with Norberta. Anyway back to the point of this letter; Dad got tickets to the Quidditch World Cup! Ron and Ginny invited Harry and Hermione and I was wondering if you would like to join us?

Answer soon.

Love, Charlie

A slam next to me jolted me from my thoughts. I looked over to see my partner slouch down into her chair,”Girl you and I need a vacation! Ramsey has been working our tails off since late December.” Her golden brown eyes focused towards me. She gave me a hearty smile and pointed to the doors,”Let’s clock out early and head to the bar! Drinks on me tonight.” I laughed and nodded,”Alright let me grab my jacket.” I grabbed my letters and jacket and we clocked out. We said goodbye to the receptionist and out into the streets of New York. We made our way to the Thundering Brew; Queen’s Under Pressure playing through the speakers. Drew the goblin was cleaning glasses when he saw us walk in,”Well there’s my two favorite customers!” His Boston accent was thick as he greeted us,”Quetta Woods; you are looking as beautiful as ever.” He flirted. Quetta rolled her eyes and sat at the bar. He then looked at me,”And the Wolf is here as well. Tell me love; what can I get you today?”

“Pear Dazzle.” He then looked over to Quetta,”Fire Whiskey as usual.” He nodded and started making the drinks. Quetta leaned against the bar and looked at me,”Soooo how’s dragon boy doing?” I laughed at her nickname for Charlie,”He’s doing good…..” I stayed silent thinking about his letter. Quetta knew something was up and crossed her arms,”Alright. What did he do?”

“What? Nothing….It’s just…He invited me to go to the Quidditch World Cup with him and his family. I haven’t seen him in years-what if he doesn’t like me anymore or-” Quetta slapped me upside the head. She gave me her ‘Are you serious right now?’ look. I sunk back in my chair and pouted,”You really think he would think that? Girl; he kept a long distance relationship with you! Anyone who has eyes can see that that man loves you.” I smiled and grabbed my drink that Drew had placed in front of me. Quetta raised her glass to me,”A toast to young love and the best damn team in America!” I raised my glass in cheers and slammed down the drink.

After a few drinks I went home to rest for the night.

I sighed as the heat slipped into my living room. I had been stationed in Arizona upon my request to study the Thunderbirds on my downtime. I looked at Galeo who was setting up his nest with the new gold artifacts that Jacob found. I looked outside and watched the cars drive along the road.

I pop behind my door caught my attention. I pulled my wand out and was preparing to fight. A knock came to my door. I looked through the peep hole and saw that it was my boss,”Detective Rogers? It’s midnight; what are you doing here?!” I asked him after opening up the door. He took his fedora off and placed it on my coffee table,”I just heard Intel from the Ministry of Magic’s auror office. Winchester heard rumors going around that the Death Eaters are rallying up for something big.” He placed a case folder down which I looked over real fast,”We think there might be an appearance at the Quidditch World Cup. I’m sending you to get some Intel there since you requested a vacation for it.” He smiled at me. I rolled my eyes and scoffed,”My how generous of you to send me on vacation and make me work at the same time.” I said sarcastically. He pulled one more case file out,”There’s another reason we’re sending you there. A person of interest so to speak.”

I looked at the case file and saw the red haired woman who I had been tracking for years now. Rakepick’s picture looked at me and smirked. Fire boiled in the pits of my stomach as I read the case file. Rogers handed me the full case file,”Are you in?” I looked at him with a smile,”Is that really a question?”

——

I nearly puked as the Portkey stopped. I regained my composure and made my way to the Leaky Cauldron. I signed in to a room and collapsed on the bed. I couldn’t sleep with the worry that my friends were in danger again. I tossed and turned in my sleep dreaming about everyone who has died. Dragging me down into the pits of Hell. There I see her face. Rakepick sitting in her chair twirling her wand in anticipation. She looked over to me with a snarky look,”Well look who the cat dragged in. Viper Akela; my old apprentice.” My breathe hitched as she turned her chair. At the bottom laid Rowan. I raised my wand but couldn’t say the words. She did the same and succeeded. I woke with a start from the nightmare.

I stared at the clock in the room.

4:30

I stretched and packed my bags to go to the Area where the Quidditch World cup was taking place. I apparated with no issue and showed the ticket man my ticket and tipped the man nicely. I stopped and turned towards him,”Excuse me sure. I’m supposed to meet with the Weasley’s; where exactly will I find them?” The no-mag looked at me confused before returning to his list. He pointed in the direction and told me what area they would be in. I thanked him and made my way to the tent grounds. I settled my tent on the ground and started setting it up. I sighed and relaxed inside the tent while looking over my case files. My thoughts interrupted when a few outside voices got closer.

“Did the others beat us here dad?” I heard what sounded like Fred outside the tent. I smiled and closed the files and made my way to the entrance,”No; someone took our spot! I will have a very nasty talk to about this nonsense!” I heard Mr. Weasley sounding furious. I laughed and walked out of the tent. Mr. Weasley had his arms crossed and was glaring at me,”May I ask why you are in-” HE stopped and looked at me in surprise,”Merlins beard. If it isn’t miss Viper Akela!” I laughed and hugged him,”It’s good to see you again Mr. Weasley! Sorry for the scare. If you don’t mind I’ll be staying next to you guys on the grounds.” He nodded and with a hearty laugh he pat my shoulder,”All swell my dear.”

I looked over to the group of excited red heads who then rushed up and gave me hugs. I looked at Fred and George in shock,”How the hell did you get that tall!?” Both Fred and George laughed and leaned on me,”We got the good genes!” I pushed them off and looked to Ginny and Ron who were very grown up,”Well now has it really been that long?” Ginny smiled brightly,”You have to tell us about your adventures in America! Charlie never tells us anything.” I laughed and shook my head,”Most of my job I can’t tell and you know that.” She shrugged and went to go help her dad with their tent. I finally turned to Ron and his friends. Ron looked at his friends then back at me,”Guys let me introduce you to one of Charlie’s coolest friends! Viper Akela. Viper these are my mates Hermione and Harry!”

I held out my hand to the two teens. Hermione beemed and took my hand with a huge grin,”It’s so nice to meet you! I’m Hermione Granger.” I felt a pang in my heart as she reminded me of Rowan. I then looked to Harry,”I’m guessing your the famous Harry Potter?” The dark haired boy nodded. I shook his hand,”From one cursed child to another; it’s nice to meet you.” HE smiled and gave me a firm handshake. We made our way into the tents waiting for the boys to arrive. It was nice getting to know Harry and Hermione and hearing all of their crazy tales. I looked at Harry and smiled,”Charlie told me your the new Griffindor seeker?” Harry nodded,”Yeah since my first year. Did you play quidditch too Viper?”

I raised my eyebrow at him and laughed,”Kid your looking at one of Hufflepuff’s best chaser. I ended up beating Griffindor my last year.” Harry leaned closer discussing about our quidditch games. It wasn’t until Charlie and Bill came stumbling in laughing with Percy close behind rolling his eyes. Bill and Percy froze when they saw me. Charlie stopped laughing and turned to see me. I smiled at him lightly,”Hi love.” He looked at me dumbfounded and then rushed over and embraced me. He smiled brightly as he kissed m cheek,”I thought you weren’t going to make it?!” I laughed as we pulled apart. I shrugged and looked at the other two Weasley brothers,”I convinced my boss to let me go.” I went over to Bill and gave him a hug then to Percy with a handshake,”It’s so good to see you all again.”

We had sat down and begun talking about life and how everything has been. Soon everyone was getting ready for the game. I dressed in green for Ireland and we made our way to the Colosseum. On the way I spotted John Winchester and his three kids heading to the arena as well. I placed my hand on Charlie’s soldier,”I’ll be back. Old mentor I want to go say hi to.” Charlie nodded and followed his family up the Colosseum. I made my way to the older man with a quick stride. I walked in front of him and held out my hand,”John Winchester! Nice to meet you!” I smiled. He looked at me strangely,”My name is Viper Akela. You are a legend in America!” He then realized that I was the American Auror he was going to meet.

“Ah Akela! Rogers told me all about you. Dean why don’t you find our seats; I’ll meet you guys there.” The oldest nodded and began walking with his siblings to the games. John glared at me,”I’ve been on the lookout. You could’ve blown my cover.”

I shook my head and glanced around,”Are the rumors true?” He sighed and shook his head,”I’ve been in touch with the others and there has been no talk of an attack.” I shifted on my feet. I looked back at the Colosseum,”Okay. I’ll keep in touch; if I see anything you’ll be the first to know.” He nodded and we went our separate ways. I found the Weasley’s seats and we watched the game with excitement and joy. Soon we were back at the tents. Most of us celebrated the victory of the Irish while everyone who was cheering for the Bulgarians laughed and made fun of us. Which we rallied back which made Ron the target for our teasing. We all stopped as we heard commotions outside. Mr. Weasley went outside to investigate while we went back to our celebrating. All of a sudden another sound of commotion was heard,”Well the Irish sure know how to get their party on eh?” George laughed. Our laughter died when Mr. Weasley came rushing back in,”How bad are the Irish partying and where can we join?” Fred asked with a chuckle.

“It’s not the Irish.” He sounded out of breath. My heart sunk. Were the rumors right? “We need to leave now.” We rushed out of the tents and heard the panicked screams. I looked over and in horror I witnessed death eaters levitating people in the air and over burning tents. I spotted John helping evacuate the area with other aurors. I looked back at the Weasleys with worry. Charlie clung to my arm as I started to drift towards the chaos. I looked at him with a loving look,”I’ll be fine love.” He nodded and let me go. I made my way towards John and started helping as many people as we could while getting closer to the death eaters.

WE started to run towards them as the crowds cleared. They noticed us and started to apparate out. One in particular saw me and uncovered her face. With red hair and lips Patricia Rakepick smugly looked at me and motioned towards me for a fight. I felt the blood in my body began to boil as I rushed after her.

“Stupify!” I casted. She blocked with ease. I shot more stun spells at her. She blocked each one with ease until I got her with a difindo spell. She glared at me before apparating away,”NO!” I cried out as she got away. I got to the spot she was standing at and noticed an address on the ground. I looked at it with a glare,”Is this where you’ve been hiding?” I asked myself. John whistled over to me,”We got some noise over in that direction. We’re going to apparate there on the count of 3.” He told me and the other aurors who showed up. We counted to three and landed around three people,”Now! Stupify!” I fired a stunning spell. I looked and saw that it was Harry, Ron and Hermione. I stopped and waved everyone to stop. It wasn’t until Charlie, Bill and Mr. Weasley ran in the middle screaming for us to stop,”That’s my son!” He embraced the kids. Crouch stepped forward and questioned the kids. I stepped back and sighed. Crouch then looked in my direction,”Did any of you at least catch someone?!” We all looked away; he already knew the answer,”Tch then what was the point of bringing help?”

Harry stepped forward and told Crouch that there was a man further east of their current position. I began walking with the rest of the aurors until Crouch pulled me aside,”I think we have had enough of your help Akela. I’ll be seeing you in my-” A hand on his shoulder stopped him mid sentence. John glared at Crouch,”Let the kid go Bartey.” Crouch sighed and followed John towards the area where Harry last saw the strange man. I felt the eyes at the back of my head. I turned and looked at the Weasleys. Charlie looked away in disbelief,”Charlie-”

“You only came for work.” He whispered. My voice caught my throat,”I wanted to come for a vacation and to hang out with all of you, but-” I swallowed the other words that would’ve come out of my mouth. Charlie just shrugged and shook his head,”Had to go catch the bad guy right?”

I snapped my head up and glared at him,”I’m after Rakepick you prat!” With that I saw his and Bill’s shocked face before I apparated back to the Leaky Cauldron. I checked into my room and locked the door behind me. I grabbed the address from my pocket and glared down at it. Grabbing my wand and auror gear; I left and apparated to the location.

———

I walked down the street and found the apartment. I let out a shaky breath as I made my way inside. I used the Disillusionment charm and made my way around the apartment. There I spotted a man sleeping on the couch and a ton of alcohol bottles. In the corner I spotted a creature scurrying on the table. An old looking niffler was polishing a gold watch. I couldn’t believe my eyes.

It was Rakepick’s niffler Sickleworth. His eyes landed on me and instantly he started to scurry away. I grabbed the little bugger not before he knocked over a pot. The man jolted awake and pointed his wand towards me,”Revelio!” My charm wore off and I pointed my wand at him Petrificus totalus!” His body froze and fell backwards. I cradled old Sickleworth in my arms,”Hey buddy. Don’t you remember me?” He sniffed me and started to get excited. I set him down and went around the apartment. Nothing out of the ordinary. I went back to our mystery guy and tied him up. Once my spell wore off he spat at me,”Who are you?!” He screamed. Luckily I put a silent charm on the apartment. I pointed my wand to his temple and glared at him,”Where is Rakepick?”

He grew silent until I casted difindo on his leg. He screamed in pain. He glared at me,”Screw you bitch.” I casted the difindo spell again against his toes this time which caused him to wail in agony. I then placed my wand on his little friend causing him to go into panic mode,”Okay okay okay!” He gasped out,”Look I’m just her kneazle and niffler breeder. I take of Sickleworth when she is on important jobs.”

“I didn’t ask about you! I want to know where she is this second!” I pushed harder on his jewels.

“It’s a secret bar in Germany!” He cried out. I smiled and pulled a pen and paper out,”Name and address.”

He glanced over to his bag. I grabbed it and rummaged through it. I found a coin with a rose embroidered on it. I put it in my pocket. I went towards the window and pressed my wand against my neck. I gave the address of the apartment and casted my patronus out of the window,”I’m on a lead. Don’t come find me.” I casted the petrifying curse on the crook and apparated out. I transfigured my hair to look short and dark red and made my eyes a deeper blue. I even gave myself a mole and a scar.

I walked around Germany for hours trying to find the location until I stumbled upon a rose garden. I walked in and took the coin out. Two men came up behind me and pulled their wands out,”I’m a new member. Invited by a breeder of Kneezles and Nifflers.” Both looked at me then walked ahead of me before knocking on a hidden entrance. I walked in and the bar was loud and full of sketchy wizards and witches. I went up to the bar. I looked around and caught the attention of what I can assume is the leader. She sat next to me and ordered fire whiskey,”Can I get you a drink new comer?”

I smiled and handed her my money,”Surprise me.” She gave me an approved smile and ordered the dragon blood shot followed by a thing of water. I’ve done dragon blood shots before with my friends when Jae snuck it in. It was the worst drink of my entire life, but I was prepared for the taste. I grabbed the shot and took it as fast as I could. My throat burned as the slush went down. My eyes watered as I sucked in a breath of fresh air. I slammed the glass down and looked at her with a nod,”Now that was a bloody kick!” She looked at me with a surprise look.

“I like you. So it was Luke that sent you here?” It clicked in my mind that I had never learned the breeder’s name,”That’s his name? Never cared to learn it. My style is more like his partners. Oh what was her name again? Ahh Patricia Rocket? No that’s not it-”

“Rakepick.” The womans eyes grew weary. I snapped my finger and pointed to her,”That’s the one! Damn good woman she is.” I nearly threw up those words. The woman leans in and motions for the back,”Let’s talk in private. We have much to discuss.” I looked at her questionably, but followed her with my wand hidden in my jacket sleeve within my palm. Once we were behind closed doors she sat down on one of the red couches in the room. She motioned for me to sit in the couch in front of her. She placed her wand in the middle of the table,”So we can trust one another.” I hesitantly put my wand on the table.

She leaned back and crossed her legs,”Your an auror.” She spoke up. My attention flicked from her face to my wand. Before I could open my mouth she held her hand up,”My father is one and I could tell you were one by a mile away. However; I like you. You’re here for Rakepick?”

I nodded and looked up at her,”I’m only here for her. Apologies are in order however; I seemed to have gotten your breeder arrested.” She looked at me annoyed, but I held my finger up,”What do you do to those animals?” She looked up at me blatantly,”We use them for some of our schemes and that’s it. But we do take care of them highly.” She whistled and a brown and black niffler ran across her shoulders and curled into her lap. I leaned back with a sigh,”What can you tell me about Rakepick?”

She made a small noise and wagged her finger at me,”What can you give me in return for this information?”

I leaned forward,”What do you want?”

She thought for a moment then held up two of her fingers,”Two things. A new niffler breeder. A nicer one would be nice. Alec was not taking good care of the mothers. The other thing is; I want to know why you are after Rakepick.”

I looked at my hands and sighed,”If I can find you a nice breeder. You must pay what they say and dress nicely for pick up. Or they won’t give you any.” She nodded in compliance,”Of course. I will let my men know. Now about Rakepick?”

I glanced at her and asked her a simple question.”What are your rules as a bad guy?”

She snickered at the word bad guy,”No kids. I like kids too much no matter how annoying some can be. Too innocent. Animal cruelty is a no no as well. And take from the rich and give to the poor.” I laughed at that and shook my head,”Let me guess you’re Robin Hood?”

“Robin Mercier and you are?” I looked at her and shook my head. She sighed and looked up at me,”I will keep our meeting a secret. I don’t like Rakepick either and there are others that come that I will willingly give to you as well.” I sighed and looked at the door behind us,”Viper. That’s all I’m giving you.” She smiled and leaned back,”Why are you hunting Rakepick? She steal from you?”

I looked at her dead in the eye,”When I was in my sixth year at Hogwarts; she killed my best friend who was a sister to me.” She looked down and shook her head,”And the niffler breeder?”

“That would be me. I am a certified breeder for the auror office and curse breaker offices.” Robin laughed and held out her hand,”Well then, I just wanted to see how serious you were. Now that I see; I’m not interested in nifflers anymore. We got another breeder for us. Rakepick has been traveling around Europe. If she was in England then most likely she will be going to Scottland. Your best bet is that she will be near Hogsmede. I nodded and grabbed my wand,”Then I will take my leave. I like the drinks you have. I might be back for a drink or two.” I smiled at Robin who nodded and grabbed her own wand.

“Of course. I’ll be expecting you to come by when this is all over.” She spoke quietly. I nodded and apparated out.

———

I made my way to the Ministry's auror office. I looked around and spotted a flow of pink hair in the distance talking to another auror. Tonks turned and saw me. She instantly ended her conversation and ran up to me,”Watcher Viper!” She tackled me with a hug. The other auror walked up and I instantly noticed it was Talbott. I smiled wholeheartedly at my friends,”You both look so good! How have you all been?”

Tonks looked at me in shock,”Blimey Viper; five years in America and you have already lost your accent?!” I laughed and poked her shoulder,”You do realize that you made fun of this very same accent when we entered Hogwarts? This is my normal accent.” She laughed and slapped my arm,”I know that! I’ve been bloody good! Working under Madeye was the best! Cranky old man, but a good teacher.”

I then looked at Talbott,”And how are you and Chiara doing?” He blushed and then pulled a ring out. Both Tonks and I had wide smiles as we congratulated him,”I’ll be asking her tonight. Enough about us; how are you fairing?” He asked quietly. My smile grew forced as I thought of Rakepick and the events of the Quidditch games and Charlie.

“I’ve been better.” I spoke quietly. Just then the door swung open and John had walked in with Kingsly Shacklebolt next to him,”Akela, Tonks, Winger; office for briefing now.” I looked at them with confusion. We followed the aurors inside the briefing office. They closed the door and put up a silent charm on the room making sure no one could hear us.

“Akela; what have you found?” John looked to me. I shifted on my feet,”I found Rakepick. My Intel told me she is in Scottland. Most likely outside of Hogsmead village.” Both Tonks and Talbott looked at me in shock,”You finally tracked her down?” Tonks’s question rang in my ears. I nodded and looked at John and Kingsly. Kingsly sat forward,”Talbott. I want you to scout the area and find her. Follow her the best you can and figure out what she’s planning. We know she isn’t a death eater; so why was she at the Quidditch games?”

I stood up and glared at the man in front of me,”Let me. I’ve been tracking her for years and I’m going-”

“Sit down!” John ordered. I sat while biting my tongue,”Now; we need to find out what she is up to. Is R back? We don’t know. Akela I’m sending you to Hogwarts for extra protection. The Tri-Wizard Tournaments are going to be held there and you will serve under Madeye.” I sighed and nodded,”Understand sir.”

———

I walked into Hogwarts with Crouch and other law enforcement officers and others from the Department of Games and Sports. The Professors were waiting in the great hall. Crouch and Dumbledor went over the rules of the tournament and then explained how classes will go for the teachers. I sighed of boredom until Professor Flitwick accidentally stepped on my foot,”Oops my bad-” He stopped and adjusted his glasses,”Miss Akela? Is that really you?!” He held out his hand. I smiled and shook it,”It has been a while Professor. I hope the students have been treating you well.” He chuckled and patted my hand,”Always. Though those Weasley boys sure do get creative with those spells of theirs.”

I laughed and shook my head. Crouch introduced everyone who was working under him. He then made it to me,”And here we have Miss Viper Akela. She’ll be joining my law enforcement team for extra protection from the auror office from America.” I smiled at everyone and nodded,”It’s good to be back.” We were then briefed to guard the doors after the students got to the Great Hall. After the introduction of the two schools I walked out with Crouch and stood at his side as he explained the rules. After a small ruckus with the students dinner was served and we began leaving. Crouch turned to me and looked to Madeye,“I want you to remain here because of what happened at the games. Stay low and quiet.” I nodded and stayed behind. After the dinner feast I found Professor Sprout and let her know what happened.

She nodded and walked me to Dumbledor’s office. She talked about all of the quirks she missed from my friends and I. I laughed,”I still can’t believe you still made me Prefect and Head Girl.” Professor Sprout patted my back,”Even though you were troublesome; you did follow most of the rules and you were one of our best tutors.” I blushed and made our way up the stairs. We had good laughs and then we made it to Dumbledor’s office. I said my goodbye to her and made my way into the Headmaster’s office. Professor Dumbledor looked up and smiled at me,”Miss Akela. How has your work in America been?”

I smiled and sat down in the chair in front of his desk,”It has been great! Thank you for the reference Professor. I wanted to let you know that Crouch wants me to remain here low and quiet.” I explained. He nodded and gave me permission to do so. To which I walked out and used my animegus form to wander the halls at night. This went on for a couple of days. I had been pacing around the hall and noticed someone walking in the hall. I paced towards them until they turned and shot a petrifying spell at me. I collapsed and watched as he covered his already shadowed face and then proceeded to shove me in Snapes ingredients closet. With one kick to the face I blacked out.

———

I woke up to Snape shaking me. I noticed I was covered in blood and my face hurt like hell,”Wha-” I snapped my attention and stood up,”We need to stop the tournament. It was rigged!” Before I could step out Snape pulled me aside,”The names were already pulled. An extra came out. We’ve had no choice but to follow the rules. A little late on letting us know Akela.” I glared at him and pointed to my condition,”Tried to stop your rigger last night! If you haven’t noticed; I’m a bit on the beat up side.”

He sighed and then held out his wand at my face,”Episky.” My nose snapped back into place with me crying out in pain. I glared at him before regaining my posture,”What are we going to do?” He sighed and looked down the hall,”Just keep your head down and keep a lookout.” I nodded and left. I walked around the school and even spotted Fred and George taking money for what looked like bets for the tournament.

Over the next few weeks I did my rounds. I kept my guard up as I went around the hall. I spotted a small child getting bullied by some older students. I took some papers that I had and smacked the older students across the head. They ran off and I helped the younger student up and telling him to tell his head of house. I looked at the Black and Gold of his uniform and thought back to Merula and I’s constant fights. I snapped out of it when Madeye pulled me to the side. I eyed him as he looked around,”They’re escorting the dragons for the first task here tonight and we need extra hands with security.”

I looked at him with confusion,”I don’t think I’m needed Madeye.”

He grunted and shrugged,”Orders are orders.” I sighed and nodded,”Alright. Where and when?”

By night I made my way through the forbidden forest towards the destination where the dragons were being held. I noticed Hagrid in the distance and something caught my eyes. With being a wolf animegus I can see invisibility cloaks and spells. I noticed a shimmer behind Hagrid and moved forward. I noticed Hagrid was talking with Charlie and the minute he saw me he got nervous,”Viper! What are ye doing here?” I stretched as the chilled Scottish air caused my arms to stiffen,”Madeye sent me here for extra security.”

I glanced at Charlie who smiled over to me. I felt my heart race a little seeing his warm smile again. I watched as Charlie spoke about the dragons. I noticed a welsh green in the distance. Another next to it was a chinese fireball and then a swedish short snout. The one that caught my eye was the hungarian horntail,”Ain’t the horntail a beauty? Nasty dragon, but a beauty at that.”

I remembered back in my fifth year,”Yeah I remember. Still have that scar on my hip from the one we fought in our fifth year.” I heard shrubs rustle in the distance and looked back. I saw an eagle watching me in the distance.

Talbott.

I walked up to Charlie and gave him a small kiss,”I have to go.” He smiled at me and nodded. I made my way further into the forest. I watched him shift into himself and he fixed his clothes,”Been a while Viper; have you been well?”

I rolled my eyes,”I’m playing bodyguard in a school instead of going after the woman who killed my best friend and gave me hell for over three years!” I crossed my arms waiting for him to give me the news.

He sighed and slipped me a paper,”We found her. It’s time we go arrest her. Meet me here tomorrow and we’ll take a portkey to Italy. We’ll be meeting Winchester, Tonks and Kingsly there to make the arrest.” He smiled lightly. I felt the weight that had piled on to my chest lift. I walked up and hugged him as tears began to find their way down my face,”Thank you.”

We pulled away and he looked at me with a kind smile,”For Rowan.” He then shifted to his animegus form and flew off. I sighed and walked back to the castle.

On my way there I saw the shimmer of an invisibility cloak walk by me. I quickly hurried off and shifted. I slowly followed it until I blocked the entrance to the school. I growled deeply at the invisible person who staggered backwards. I rushed forward and tackled the person. I saw them raise heir wand. Before they could say a spell; I shifted and aimed my wand at them,”Expelliarmus!” I caught the wand and instantly recognized it as Harry’s wand.

I sighed and put my wand down,”Come on out Harry.” Harry took the invisibility cloak off and looked down at the ground knowing he was caught red handed,”You know you weren’t supposed to see those dragons.” I handed his wand back to him,”At least tell Cedric and the others so they also have a fighting chance.”

His eyes met mine and nodded,”Fluer already knows. And Karkaroff will probably tell Krum; I’ll tell Cedric.” I nodded and smiled at him. I had forgotten that Cedric was the one that had been chosen. I got a good look at Harry and noticed that he looked horrible,”Follow me Potter.”

He followed me to the courtyard and I motioned for him to sit down,”This challenge has been putting a strain on you hasn’t it?” He nodded and I leaned back against the fountain. I sighed and looked at Gryffindor tower,”Ron will get over it. Best Friends always do.” I placed my hand on his shoulder,”Trust me when I say that you need to let your friends help you. You can’t keep them away for long. They always find a way back into your life.” I chuckled. Harry smiled to and got up,”Thanks Viper.”

“Hey from one cursed kid to another.” I winked at him. I stood up and began making my way back to my room.

“Hey Viper.” I turned and saw Harry putting his cloak back on,”I think you should take your advise as well. Ron said Charlie was getting very worried about you.” My heart hurt as he disappeared from normal sight. I nodded and turned around,”Thanks Harry; I needed that reminder.”

———

I met Talbott in the forest. He stood by the Black Lake; observing the sunrise in the distance. I stood next to him observing the peaceful air,”Let me know when you and Kiara are free. I think it would be nice to go out for butterbeer with everyone again.” I told him. He smiled sweetly at me before nodding in agreement,”Set the date and we’ll be there.” I smiled as we held on to the portkey.

We stopped and I turned and up came my breakfast behind a bush. Talbott gave me an awkward pat on the back,”God I hate portkeys.” I said wiping my mouth.

I followed him to the safe house where I spotted John and Tonks playing poker. Tonks’ eyes lit up at the sight of me. She threw down her cards and jumped into my arms. I laughed and hugged her back. John smiled at me then took his money and set out a map,”We learned that she has a trade going on in a black market district that the Italian Ministry has been eyeing for a while. We will be working with them to take down Rakepick.” I looked over the map. Of course there was a secret entrance in the Colosseum.

“I think Tonks and I can corner her here.” I pointed to the spot,”Tonks and I can change our appearance and follow her.” Kingsly nodded and drew a circle near a cliff side,”Get her here. We’ll put barriers up so she can’t apparate.”

We planned everything to the Tee and waited for nightfall.

Tonks and I made our hair darker and our clothes dark as well. We moved throughout the market with silence as we spotted her fire like hair. She spotted us and walked faster away from us. We caught up and got her to the cliff side. She went to apparate before realizing she was blocked. I changed my appearance back to normal and lifted my wand at her.

She chuckled and waved me off,”It’s been a long time Akela; how is my little prodigy doing?” I felt rage in my chest as I thought about what my next move would be. Tonks kept her wand raised as well,”You’re surrounded Rakepick; you are under arrest.”

Rakepick turned and saw John, Kingsly and three Italian ministry aurors. She looked around in anger and aimed a wandless spell towards the others. John used a shield spell but the others were knocked back. Everyone fired stun spells towards her which she deflected with ease. She fired a bombarda spell at the ground causing the cliff to crumble down.

We fell down with rocks and rubble tumbling with us. Tonks, John and I grabbed Rakepick before she apparated. We fell on to a grassy plain. I was dazed and noticed Rakepick aiming her wand at Tonks. I had horrible flashbacks to the green flash from my sixth year.

I charge forward as fast as I could and heard her start the spell. I shifted and plunged my fangs into her arm. She screamed in pain and looked at me in shock. Tonks shook her head and paled at the look of a three foot wolf clinging to the arm of a witch. She tried to pry my jaws open which gave John enough time to stun her in the back.

She fell to the ground. She took hold of my head and slammed me into a nearby rock. Tonks used the laceration spell and slammed the bitch away from me. I shifted back in pain as my head was bleeding bad. John helped me sit up against a wall while the other aurors were called.

Rakepick was now glaring daggers at me. To which I spat in her direction,”Get ready to rot in hell bitch.” Before she could say anything; Tonks did a hex or curse that made her mouth disappear,”That’ll shut her up.” She laughed and then sat next to me.

“Animegus huh?”

“Yep.” I answered.

She looked at me with curiosity,”Who else knows?”

“Charlie, Chiara, Talbott and Harry. Obviously now you and John as well.” I winced as she helped heal the wound.

I watched as she was escorted to Askaban.

After getting patched up; Tonks led me away and handed me some Italian Ice. I laughed and took it. The weight was finally gone and I felt very relaxed. I saw the thestrals pulling the jail cart. I sighed and closed my eyes letting the sun soak into my skin.

“So are you staying in Europe? Or are you going back to America?” I looked at Tonks with uncertainty. I shrugged,”I think I’m going to take a well deserved vacation.”

Tonks gave me an all knowing look,”I think its time you go on a long awaited date with Mr. Dragon Tamer! He has been-” I took her Italian ice and shoved it in her mouth. She laughed as she rubbed her teeth,”That was dirty!”

I laughed and looked into the distance.

She was right.

I think it was time to spend some quality time with Charlie.

———

The Romania air chilled me to the bone.

How was it colder than the UK?!

I went up to the front office to the sanctuary and was met by a friendly smile,”Buna dimineat doamna! Cum te pot ajuta azi?” I smiled as I had little to no idea what he just said. He saw my look and smiled sweetly,”American?”

“Irish American actually.” I laughed nervously. He held out his hand,”Ari David.”

“Viper Akela.” I took his hand and he instantly lit up at the sound of my name,”Charlie’s imaginary girl?! It’s about time we met you.” He laughed. I felt my face light up like a Christmas tree. He came around and called for someone in the back. A man poked his head out of the back office with his face stuffed,”I’m going to show our guest here around. Watch the desk while I’m gone?”

The man nodded and wheeled out of the office. Ari walked me through the gates and I could instantly here the dragons in the distance. Ari showed me the hatchery and even the smaller breeds of dragons. He laughed at my amazed look,”Ever been to a sanctuary before?” He asked. I nodded and looked at the fossil they had in their study center,”Thunderbird sanctuary in Arizona. I go there on my free time to spend time with the creatures.”

Ari was grinning ear to ear,”My grandfather helped Newt Schamander free one from Egypt. Said it was one of the most majestic creatures he had ever laid eyes on.” He then spoke in Hebrew which I roughly translated to ‘God bless that old man.’

Soon we made it to the village nearby the sanctuary,”Charlie’s home is the small house near the forest. Kind of rustic looking. Mailbox has his name on it.” I thanked the man and went into the village. I smiled at the children playing in the streets. Older couples who were tending to their gardens. My heart pounded when I saw the familiar red haired, freckle covered man I had come to see. His blue eyes landed on me.

The conversation he was having with the man standing in front of him suddenly stopped. The man looked over his shoulder and to me,”You lost miss?” I smiled and nodded eyeing Charlie,”Yeah. I’m looking for a stubborn red head covered in freckles and burn scars who I haven’t had a proper date with since Hogwarts.”

The man looked at Charlie with shock,”Asta este Viper?! Băiete, nu ai retinut descrierea.” I saw Charlie’s face turn into a near shade of his hair color. The man bid him farewell and walked to what I thought was his home. Charlie didn’t waist a second before pulling me into a hug.

For what seemed like centuries I hugged him back. Tears poured down my eyes as I apologized. He brought me into his house and made some tea,”What made you finally visit?” He asked me.

“Tonks convinced me. Charlie…we did it.” He looked at me confused,”We got Rakepick.” His eyes softened and clasped his hand to mine. His eyes pleaded to me as he spoke the question on his mind since I showed up,”Does this mean I have my Viper back?”

I nodded and sobbed my heart out,”I’m so sorry.” He pulled me closer as just buried myself in his chest.

The remainder of the day was us talking and me cooking us some dinner.

By night, warmed by his body, I had the best sleep of my entire life.

———

The next few months of vacation were amazing. I helped around the sanctuary as an extra healer on hand or even security. I knew Crouch was going to order me back to Hogwarts once my vacation was over with, but at the moment I didn’t care.

Soon enough it was my last day in Romania. I woke to feel Charlie’s fingers tracing my thunderbird tattoo on my shoulder. I groaned as I stretched my stiff body. Charlie planted a kiss on my lips which lingered for a solid minute before he whispered a morning to me.

I sighed and got out of bed. I packed my items and made my way to the portkey with Charlie in tow. He pulled me into a kiss,”I’ll miss you.” He told me. His blue eyes begged me not to go,”I’ll be here for summer.” I kissed his cheek and then grabbed the portkey.

I arrived back at Hogwarts just in time for the second challenge.

———

Crouch gave me orders to be at the ready to dive after the champions who needed the help. After the champions jumped into the black lake I sat by waiting for anyone who needed to be saved. We noticed Fleur’s Vermillious charm shot up. Me and another person jumped in and swam towards the direction of the charm cast.

I noticed her being pulled down from what looked to be grindylow dragging her down. I stunned the grindylow and me and the other person pulled her up. Fleur was panicking and gagging out water. The other person who I found out was a healer. He made sure there wasn’t any bad wounds before wrapping her up in a warm towel.

Her friends were warming her up and she was looking frantically around for someone,”Where eeze Gabrielle? Where eeze my sister!?” I looked around in panic, but Madeye motioned for me to walk over to him.

“Her sister was used as the prize. She will be safely pulled out of the lake by the end of the hour.” He whispered to me. I looked at him in shock then realised I hadn’t seen Hermione nor Ron at all today. Soon Cedric emerged from the water with a girl I didn’t recognize, then Krum with Hermione. We helped them up and I watched out for Harry and Ron. I was asked to help warm up Hermione when Harry, Ron and Gabrielle resurfaced. Fleur kissed Harry and Ron and thanked them.

Hermione tensed up when she saw that.

After helping the Champions and their rescued friends and family I made my way to Crouch who looked like he had seen a ghost. I placed my hand on his shoulder causing him to jump,”You alright Crouch?” He cleared his throat and nodded before walking away.

———

It was now near he end of the school year and the champions were getting ready for their final trial. I had been helping Snape try and find the culprit behind his missing ingredients which we later learned was to make polyjuice potion. I made my way down the hall where I ran into Cedric. I smiled and waved at him,”Diggory!” Cedric looked oer to me and a huge smile appeared on his face,”Viper!” I noticed he was had gotten taller. I laughed and hugged my old shadow,”How are you doing? I heard you made it as Hufflepuff’s new seeker.”

He laughed and continued walking with me,”Yeah I ended up getting the seeker position after you left.” I smiled and remembered when he started joining Charlie and I’s quidditch games with our friends. He was a good seeker.

“That’s great! I’m rooting for you. Hufflepuff for the win!” I bumped my fist against his. He laughed and was then waved down by a ravenclaw girl,”I gotta go. It was nice seeing you again!”

I made my way down towards the Hufflepuff entrance and placed my hand on the barrels. I remember teaching the first years the code to enter.

Sneaking my radio from home so all the hufflepuffs had something to listen. When it was time for bed we brought it to the rooms and jammed out to the rock stations.

Using my Walkman to listen to my music when I was out for walks or doing homework by myself.

Rowan scolding me for failing my History of Magic test…again.

Chiara and I sneaking out every full moon with Talbott in tow.

Sneaking Charlie in the room for some…alone time.

Winning the Quidditch cup my last year.

I hated myself now.

What had I become?

I became an enraged animal wanting revenge for all the wrong doings that had happened to my friends.

Helga Hufflepuff would be ashamed of me.

I felt a soft hand on my shoulder,”The hat never makes a mistake dear. You were a true hufflepuff and our founder would have loved you.” Sprout’s voice caused my heart to swell. I breathed in and let out a shaky breath.

“Didn’t mean for that to come out loud, but thank you.” She then took her wand and smacked the top of my head with it. I winced in pain and looked at her in disbelief,”Ow! What was that for?!”

“The past hurts. What will you do with it?” She then tried to hit me again but I moved to the side which caused her to miss. She laughed and I began to laugh with her,”Yeah yeah. Learn from it. Thank you Professor.” She pulled me into a hug and then got very excited,”The third challenge will begin soon! Will you be cheering Cedric and Harry on?”

I smiled and chuckled lightly,”I’ll try and make it, but I have to do the rounds tonight.” She nodded in understanding and wished me a goodnight.

I walked around the entirety of the Hogwarts school when I stumbled upon two of Harry’s friends sneaking around. I cleared my throat and both froze,”The last challenge is happening right now. I know Harry will want his friends there to support him.” I looked at both with a scolding stare. Then smiled,”I’ll let you guys off with a warning.” I winked at them and wandered away. The girl ran up to me,”Something isn’t right with Professor Moody!”

I stopped and looked at her with all seriousness,”What do you mean?” The boy and girl looked at each other then back to me,”We think he’s been stealing ingredients to make a potion. And he’s been very shifty lately.”

Suddenly it clicked into place.

Polyjuice potion.

“Get to the arena and stay with your friends. I’ll inform the teachers.” I got up and apparated the kids and I to the maze. They made it to Hermione and Ron who were watching and waiting in excitement. I found the teachers and explained the situation. Snape who was now furious apparated back to get a truth potion.

Just then a loud pop was heard and Harry was now on the ground with Cedric. Cheers were heard as Hogwarts had won the Tri-Wizard-

My heart dropped when I spotted it.

Cedric’s unblinking eyes.

Cold and gone.

I heard Fleur scream as she was the first to notice. Tears welled in my eyes as everyone stoped and stared in shock. Professor Sprout broke down and burrowed her head into my shoulder. I looked up and saw Madeye dragging Harry away,”He’s got Harry.” I whispered. The teachers heard and prepared for a fight. Snape had arrived back and we made our way to the Defense Against the Dark Arts room. After barging in Snape and I held down Madeye while Harry stood near McGonagall.

After revealing Barty Crouch Jr. and him telling us that he murdered his father; we helped the real Madeye out of the enchanted chest. The old auror patted my back with a pained nod. I smiled and took it as a thank you.

———

The funeral was tough.

It was another friend gone.

I felt a hand clasp my shoulder and saw a glove hand me a note.

Meet me in my office. We have much to discuss.

-Dumbledor

I looked around and spotted the two kids from before. I walked over to them. The fourth year boy looked at me with worry,”You both helped us a lot. Thank you…uhh”

“Rey Winchester.”

“Neville Longbottom.”

I smiled at them before nodding,”Thank you Rey and Neville. You both were brave in following that man. I’ll inform McGonagall and ask her to give you both points for this.” Both smiled but sadness was in those eyes. I made my way to the Headmaster’s office and was joined by both McGonagall and Sprout. Once we were up there I spotted not only all the teachers, but Talbott, Tonks, Bill, Merula and Madeye.

I looked to Dumbledor for an explanation.

“What I am about to ask all of you is to be kept secret. And I must know that you will all do any task that I give you. Do you understand.” I nodded and so did the others.

“Years ago when the first war was going on; I had created a secret organization called the Order of the Phoenix. I plan to rebirth that Order again.” He then looked at everyone in the room,”All who were apart of it before step aside. All who have never heard of it or were apart of it line up in front of me.” The Professors moved to the side along with Madeye and it was just Talbott, Tonks, Bill and Merula standing in front of him.

“Talbott Winger; you are a great auror and a hidden animegus. I’ll need you to keep your eyes and ears open all over the United Kingdoms.” Talbott nodded in understanding. Next he turned to Tonks,”Nymphadora Tonks; like Mr. Winger you are an exceptional auror. You will be positioned with Kingsly, Madeye and Winchester. Keep an eye out for spies amongst the ministry.”

Tonks beamed at Dumbledor,”Of course, but for future references. Don’t call me Nymphadora. Tonks will do just fine.” Dumbledor chuckled and nodded. He then turned to Bill,”I have already talked to your brother who will be keeping communications and recruiting for the Order in Romania. However; I need you here. Curse breakers may come in handy especially now. I have already informed Gringotts about you and they are happy to have you.”

Bill nodded but stayed silent. Dumbledor then turned to Merula,”Miss Snyde; I want you recruiting in Egypt.” She smiled and crossed her arms,”As long as I don’t get a desk job that is fine by me.”

And finally he turned to me,”I need one more person here at Hogwarts. However; the Ministry is appointing one of their own as Defense Against the Dark Arts Professor. If I remember correctly you were one of the top of your class in Care for Magical Creatures correct?”

“Yes Professor, but didn’t Kettleburn retire and Hagrid took his post?” I asked him.

“Hagrid will be leaving his post for another mission. I’m asking you to join our staff Miss Akela. It would mean a lot.” I looked over to the staff of Professors. Then to my friends,”Well…Professor Akela does have a nice ring to it.” Dumbledor smiled,”Then its settled. You are all dismissed; Allister; perhaps you can get Akela situated with the auror’s office in America since she won’t be working there anymore.” We nodded and left the office.

Madeye and I took a portkey to America. It was nice to be back in New York and I will miss my home in Arizona. Quetta was doing paperwork when I approached my desk. She stopped and ran up to hug me,”I heard you were leaving us?!” She asked in disbelief.

“Yes I am, but I’ll give you my address so we can still talk. Who knows; I may appear for a drink every now and then.” I laughed. She teared up with a smile and hugged me tighter,”You are the best damn partner I have ever had! I’ll miss you!” I smiled and hugged her closer,”I’ll miss you too.”

After packing up my office and all my personal files and objects I turned my badge over to Ramsey who stamped Retired to it,”Keep it. So you can be reminded of your times with us.” I smiled warmhearted by his words. Soon the entire auror office came by and wished me well.

After that we traveled to the school where I had begun to organize my office then care for the animals. Madeye left me to that work and he went back to the auror offices.

I had an unexpected visitor who taught me how to charm a briefcase to store magical creatures in. I thanked Mr. Scammander and left for my parents home in Dublin. I stayed with them until I found a home in Hogsmead village. I brought my niffler Galleo, my Irish Wolfhound Artair and my Granian Storm with me to the new house.

I found the door wide open and saw Charlie waiting inside with a smile on his face. I placed down the suitcase and closed the door before crashing into him. I looked at him with a smirk,”You are mine all summer.” He laughed and kissed the crook of my neck,”Funny. Because I’m here to kidnap you.” He whispered.

Soon summer started and also began a new adventure for me starting with the love of my life.

---------

AN: I’m so happy this fic is done. It took me so long to do this fic.

#hogwarts mystery #charlie weasley #john winchester #takes place in harry's fourth year #harry potter and the goblet of fire #i finished this at two in the morning #jacob's sibling #charlie weasley x reader #harry potter #rey winchester #neville longbottom #bill weasley #ginny weasley #george weasley #ron weasley #weasley family

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carewyncromwell · 4 years

Text

[Within an hour, Carewyn had settled down with Mr. and Mrs. Weasley, Bill, Charlie, and Percy at their table. As always, Carewyn found herself engaged in loud, raucous conversation -- the sort she would’ve never found at home with her mother and Jacob as a child, but which was as warm and comfortable as the roaring fireplace next to them. It’d been a while since Carewyn had heard Bill and Charlie laugh so much, and it pleased her so much to hear it, after what had gone down just a few days prior.]

I want it to stay like this forever. Everyone happy, and safe, and together...

Charlie: “Reckon since I’ll be the oldest brother at school now, I’ll have to look after Percy and the twins in your stead, Bill!”

Percy: “(his nose wrinkling) You, looking after me? That seems unlikely.”

[Carewyn couldn’t find back a giggle too.]

“Oh come on, Percy, give Charlie some credit. He and I both got made Prefects, didn’t we?”

Percy: “(mutters) I still don’t understand how you did -- you’ve both broken plenty of rules...”

[His parents clearly hadn’t heard Percy, as Mrs. Weasley cut him off at that point, dabbing at her eye with a handkerchief.]

Mrs. Weasley: “Oh, Arthur, I just can’t believe it -- our oldest son, a Hogwarts graduate!”

[Bill flushed in visible embarrassment, even as he tried uncomfortably to soothe his mother.]

[Mr. Weasley patted his wife’s shoulder comfortingly as he turned to Charlie with a smile.]

Mr. Weasley: “I gotta say, you did a fine job putting this party together for your brother, Charlie.”

[Charlie smiled broadly, his eyes sliding from his father to over at Carewyn.]

“Yeah, but you made it happen, Charlie. You deserve most of the credit.”

Charlie: “Come off it!”

Bill: “(amused) You deserve at least half the credit for keeping me preoccupied while Charlie got all this ready for me, Carey.”

[Mrs. Weasley’s face resembled a proud red sunset as she beamed at Carewyn.]

Mr. Weasley: “Too right! We’re quite the squad ourselves -- got enough kids to start our own Quidditch team...”

Charlie: “(eagerly) Can we? We could call ourselves the Weasley Dragons!”

Percy: “(stiffly) I think I’ll be too busy with homework -- but I’ll cheer you on.”

Bill: “(laughing) And I imagine I’ll be a bit too busy working at Gringotts to play Quidditch...”

[Carewyn giggled softly.]

“If you need alternates for Percy and Bill, Charlie, maybe Andre and I could jump in?”

[Charlie’s brown eyes lit up and he flat-out reached across Bill to snatch hold of Carewyn’s hand in a static, masculine handshake.]

Charlie: “Aw YEAH! Then we could all actually play on the same team! Now we just gotta figure out positions -- I’d be Seeker, obviously, and I guess you’d want to be Chaser, Carey -- ”

Bill: “I reckon Andre might fight you for the Seeker position, Charlie. Ginny too, for that matter.”

[Even though Carewyn hurried to cover her mouth with her free hand, she couldn’t stop herself from bursting out into full laughter.]

[Still giggling lowly to herself, Carewyn pushed her chair back and got up, strolling across the room to head up to the bar to fetch some more drinks.

She was stopped half-way there, however, when a man abruptly materialized in front of her.]

[He was by far the strangest looking wizard Carewn had ever seen. He had broad shoulders and a weary face, but one of his legs was replaced with a wooden prosthetic and one of his eyes was replaced by a large, bright blue glass eye strapped to his head, which swiveled its gaze around the room of its own accord.]

[Carewyn’s eyebrows knit together tightly over her eyes.]

“‘Back?’ Where -- ?”

[Before Carewyn could finish, however, Moody had already moved forward and seized her arm. Carewyn's vision contorted and distorted as her body was scrunched up and twisted like a dish rag -- ]

[And just like that, in a manic flurry of color, the two abruptly Disapparated from the room.]

Rowan: “Carewyn!?”

Bill and Andre: “Carewyn?”

Charlie, Penny, and Barnaby: “Carewyn!”

[Just about all of Carewyn’s friends had bolted to their feet, and Rowan had dashed to the spot where Carewyn had been standing -- but it was too late. Both Carewyn and Moody were gone.]

~*~

[Hours later, Rowan Khanna sat alone at the bar at the Three Broomsticks. All of the other people had already left for the graduation ceremony, but Rowan had stubbornly decided to stay behind and wait for Carewyn. Madame Rosmerta, who looked just as worried herself, had very kindly gotten Rowan a butterbeer to drink while she was waiting.]

[At long last, Madame Rosmerta looked up as someone entered the room.]

Rosmerta: “Carewyn! Oh, thank goodness...”

[Rowan immediately whirled around, leaping off her stool and running over to her friend.]

[Carewyn frowned, her eyes drifting off toward the ceiling almost cynically.]

“The man -- Alastor Moody -- he had some questions about Jacob...I guess he heard about what happened in the Cursed Vault and wanted more details. Once he finally figured out that I’d told Dumbledore everything, though, he said I could go.”

[Rowan’s eyebrows furrowed in concern.]

Rowan: “Did he think you lied to Dumbledore?”

“Or just left stuff out. Either way, I guess it doesn’t matter.”

[Carewyn sighed, glancing around the empty inn tiredly.]

“Shame I missed the rest of Bill’s party...”

Rowan: “Forget the party, I’m just glad you’re okay!”

[She took hold of Carewyn’s shoulder to get her friend to look at her.]

Rowan: “When Moody grabbed you and just vanished like that...we were all really worried. Mr. and Mrs. Weasley told us all that Moody was a good man and that he could be trusted, but...even with that, I still...”

[Carewyn’s eyes softened and she gave Rowan her bravest smile.]

“...Yeah...I guess it must’ve looked scary. But it’s okay -- I’m okay. So don’t worry...all right?”

[Rowan’s face broke into a small, faintly hesitant smile.]

Rowan: “...All right.”

[She looped an arm around Carewyn’s, her smile widening and growing warmer.]

Rowan: “Come on! We’d better hurry -- don’t want to miss the graduation ceremony!”

[Carewyn kept the bright white smile on her face even as Rowan led her out of the Three Broomsticks and back toward school.

She smiled at Rowan as if she hadn’t just outright lied to her face.]

It’s not okay, Rowan. I’m not okay.

But you will be. You -- our friends -- my mum -- everyone else -- you’ll all be okay. You’ll all be safe.

I promise.

((OOC: And so concludes year 5 for Carewyn! Onto year 6...oh, goodie...

Moody swore Carewyn to secrecy about what was discussed -- Carewyn herself took the additional step to actively mislead Rowan about what their meeting had been about. This will be the start of a big shift for Carewyn as opposed to MC’s trajectory in the game storyline -- from here on out, Carewyn isn’t telling her friends anything else about the Vaults or R. She’s taking the burden squarely on her shoulders and -- to make sure her friends can’t try to share that burden or talk her out of it -- she’ll be actively hiding any future involvement she has with R or the Vaults from them. Maybe then, she thinks, she can at least make sure they’re safe... =( ))

#carewyn cromwell #roleplaying #gameplay #hphm #hogwarts mystery #jacob's sibling #bill weasley #charlie weasley #arthur weasley #molly weasley #percy weasley #rowan khanna #madame rosmerta #mad-eye moody

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rhodesmystery · 5 years

Text

in red, she walks

Heart stopping kind of voice, Charlie had. Or maybe it was only her who felt that way, as she turns to greet him. Freckled and grinning, almost a little bashfully, as he stood beside her. Facing towards the end of the aisle, hands shoved into the pockets of his dress robes. Natasha noted, too, that he had still sported his longer hair, tightly pulled back and off his face. Perhaps his brothers weren’t joking about Charlie regrowing his hair after all.

I wrote this tonight, after being madly inspired by the wedding scene once more. Always meant to write something, guess tonight was the night.

Charlie x MC, 1997, Bill and Fleur’s Wedding.

With the summer sun beating down, Natasha watched as the crowd ahead slowly started to move. A twitch in her cheek has her turn to cover her face, while she listens to the bubbling emotions spill through people. Excitement and happiness, something that was becoming extremely hard to find in such a time. Almost fitting that it was Bill who was at the centre of it all.

She couldn’t remember the last time she’d actually seen him, when she thought about it. Since having been employed by varying parties externally, her work at Gringotts had dropped significantly. They’d kept in contact, of course, but with the tighter restrictions on owls, and varying letters being intercepted, well. Natasha was surprised she had actually received her invitation.

Adjusting the neck of her dress carefully, keeping in mind not to disrupt the beading too much, she was almost at the gate. There, she could see several familiar shocks of red hair standing, trying to direct the traffic towards their seating. So strange to see Fred and George cleaned up, although it made her quite conscious of how her hair sat.

Finally at the front of the line. “Rhodes, Natasha.” She can see the snap of a head towards her, and how the twins settled into equally large grins.

“Clean up well, Rhodes,” Fred, or George, offered, complete with a whistle and a wink. “Charlie’ll be impressed.”

An almost smug smile graces Natasha’s lips, but she peers over the little seating chart, ignoring the bait. Instead, starts with a “how is he?”

Found her name. On the groom’s side, near Tonks, it seemed. Several other names of friends hadn’t yet been ticked off, as hers slowly started to glow, once she stepped through the gate. Rowan hadn’t turned up yet, and neither had Penny.

“Bit rough. Grew his hair back out last night after mum got to him.” There’s a snort, from Ron, at that comment. Natasha’s smile grew just a fraction more, before she squeezed both Fred and George tight.

Holding up the line for long enough, she leaves with a wave to all of them, including the strange curly-haired boy she hadn’t seen before. “I’ll find my own way.”

No time to wait for them to respond, as they were back to busily trying to direct more guests. Natasha picks up her dress gently, and walked down the path to the marquee, spotting a few faces here and there that she recognised from varying places. Incredible, she thought, once inside, staring up at the ceiling of the marquee. Twined between the poles holding it up, were lights, streamers, and sweetly scented leaves, almost too soft to notice, but lingering behind.

The delicate golden chairs seemed as if they would blow away, and perhaps it was a blessing that its as such a still day. Natasha had to stop herself, from walking the rest of the aisle. A momentary thought that she’d caught herself in, of what she might’ve missed out on, or wouldn’t happen yet. Not necessarily souring, but amusing, as her eyes seemed to drag the rest of the way up, to where balloons sat.

“Hey, Nat.”

“Charlie…” She does something out of character, perhaps a little influenced by the mood. Leans in, hand on his chest. Softly, barely brushing her lips against his. Enough for him to place a hand on her waist, holding her there. Romania had been months ago, her holiday cut short to tend to another job passed down at so-and-so’s recommendation. There, it had been easy to know, as if everything seemed to just fall away. Natasha remembered, as she pulled back, just how happy she was, watching Charlie work, while she did odd jobs around the sanctuary to help.

His ears were firmly red, almost as much as her dress was. A smile stretched across his face, all kinds of pleased, that had her feel a different kind of warm to what the summer wanted her to feel. Happy, she felt happy.

Yet just as he leaned in once more, Natasha’s eyes already closing as his face drew closer, there was an awkward clearing of the throat. Charlie had stopped, mere millimetres from her lips, and Natasha turned on whoever it was to interrupt them.

She meets, with a quickly dying amount of annoyance, the bemused face of Tonks, arms folded over her chest as she surveyed the two. Ever the gentleman, Charlie does step back from Natasha, clearly remembering just where they were. Natasha pouts, despite herself, but does throw herself at Tonks once she opens her arms.

“Haven’t changed, have you, Nat?” she teases, far too much laughter to be polite.

When Natasha pulls back, trying to find something to say to save her pride, she notices the tiredness in Tonks’ eyes. Despite the shock of blonde hair she sported, her face seemed tight, like too much worry had wormed its way into her. Hands cup Tonks’ face, and Natasha leans in close then. “Are you okay?”

Her eyes give her away. Wavering, almost telling her the truth. As Tonks placed her hands over Natasha’s, she shook her head a little. “Let’s not drag the day down, alright?”

She didn’t want to let Tonks get away with not telling her, but the appearance of a figure behind her friend effectively closed the conversation. A man, one Natasha hadn’t ever met, stood. Tall and thin, but levelling Tonks with a warm gaze.

“Natasha, this is my husband, Remus Lupin. Remus, I’ve told you about Natasha before. We broke curses together.”

The key word, ‘husband’, almost has her pause, but Natasha offers her hand with a smile. “A pleasure to meet you. How you managed to wrangle Tonks down, I’ll never know.”

Remus smiles, closed mouth and tense, but returns the handshake. “Pleasure to meet you as well. But I do believe she tied me down, first.”

An attempt at a joke, one that Natasha does only laugh at when Tonks goes a vivid pink in the cheeks. Almost immediately washing away the creases at the corners of her eyes, as she seems to forget that Natasha and Charlie were standing there. Natasha wants to say something about her prior interruption, but settles for squeezing her arm.

“I’ll see you when we’re seated. I’m going to try to find anyone else.”

Tonks hugs her once more, fiercely and off guard. Returning the embrace tenfold, Natasha was sure they stood there for one minute, just the two of them. Something was eating at Tonks, she could tell. And it would be fair to say that the suspense was eating at her as well, perhaps even the smallest amount of fear. Whilst they stood, surrounded by the brilliant white and gold of a wedding party, just beyond the gate was what they were trying to forget.

One more pat to the cheek, and Natasha turns to leave. Looping her arm through Charlie’s, she pulls him away. “Come along,” she tries to sing, as they step back out of the marquee. Nearly all the guests had arrived, it seemed, and Natasha could only see so many intricate hats, before knowing that she was walking into the wrong area of people.

“Natasha, over there.”

Following Charlie’s extended finger, she finally spots a lingering crowd huddle by a flutterby bush. Natasha leads them, as they weave between other guests, until finding themselves in front of Rowan, Penny, Tulip and Barnaby. Whilst they hadn’t been noticed yet, Natasha took the time to let her eyes wander over each of her friends. How time had flown, too, since she had seen them all last. Treated them well, despite everything. Rowan was a little thinner in the face, sharper despite the laughter, Penny worn around the edges. Tulip was hovering, as if ready to run, and Barnaby seemed rather uncomfortable in his robes, from the way he kept moving his weight from foot to foot.

“Natasha! Charlie!”

And yet, despite how tired they all looked, how afraid they all felt, that bubble of tension popped, as they exchanged hugs. Fierce and strong, Natasha caught several different whiffs of perfume, before being almost glued to Rowan’s side by sheer force alone. Warm and comforting there, just like she remembered. Barnaby had an arm around Charlie, and looked like he was almost about to cry.

“It’s not my wedding!” Charlie laughs, nudging him in the side, but not removing his arm from Barnaby’s shoulders. If anything, pulls him in tighter, just to remind him he was there.

“Doesn’t matter,” Barnaby almost blubbers, and Penny is the one laughing gently now, apparently taking up residence under his other arm. “This is what we needed, you know?”

Tulip continued to hover, but Natasha was having none of that. Reaching out, she takes Tulip’s hand, squeezing it firmly. Trying to remind her that it would be okay. She had seen the paper clippings, of course she had. How the Ministry had been shaken from its roots. And Tulip, as much of an anarchist as she had once pleaded to be, had openly weeped over her parents’ positions, and what it meant now.

Conversation changes pace, faster than Natasha could keep up. Amazement that Bill settled down. A tease that Rowan wasn’t the one to walk down the aisle (“Hey, I was a thirteen year old girl with a crush!”). Some shared whispers and concerns over what Fleur was like, all of which were perfectly smoothed over, as Charlie spoke rather highly of her.

“Nothing to do with the Veela blood though, right Charlie?” Penny asks pointedly, with a brow raised. None of them could deny, as several of Fleur’s cousins almost dance past them immediately, enrapturing all.

Except, Charlie shakes his head, and hitches a thumb in the direction of his family. His younger brothers, in particular, who hurried after the cousins not a moment later. “They have more interest in that sort of thing than I do.” Winks at Natasha with that comment, which she only rolls her eyes at.

Someone goes to say something, or other, and there’s a clap magnified tenfold. Ready to start, it seemed, with how the crowd moved towards the marquee once more.

“I should go,” Charlie notes, as they all could see Mrs Weasley standing, rather harried, as if trying to find him.

Rowan makes a noise of agreement, and a shooing motion with her hand. “You are the best man, after all.”

He makes a face, somewhere between the raising of his brows and a slight smile, before going to turn away. Natasha moves then, freeing herself from Rowan and Tulip to tug at his sleeve. Charlie turns to her, the confusion evident on his face, and she only brushes her hands over his shoulders, smoothing out creases. Straightening the flower on his chest, tucking a stray piece of hair behind his ear.

“You look great.” Robes now sitting perfectly, Natasha removes her hands, threading her fingers together. And he did, but she quietly thought to herself that she had always thought he had, regardless. Covered in mud with twigs in his hair, or the remains of one of Penny’s experimental potions, Charlie had always managed to catch her eye.

Charlie makes a little noise, and presses his lips against her forehead. “So do you. See you soon.”

“Alright.”

“Charlie? Oh, there you are, Charlie you need to—Natasha, dear, so good to see you—”

“Mrs Weasley,” Natasha greets, as the ever flustered form of Charlie’s mother finally approaches their group.

“Molly, dear, you can call me Molly. But yes, come along, your brother is waiting, we need to start…”

Watching how Charlie just seems to roll his eyes at the way she too, smoothed the front of his robes, Natasha could only offer a “he’s all yours, Mrs Weasley.” Did nothing to help with the way he frowned at her. But he’s lead away by his mother with a backwards wave.

As they seemed to be the last few outside, now that the family had officially disappeared into the marquee, Natasha turns to her friends behind her. “Come on. Let’s get our seats.”

Third row from the front, easing in between family with apologies, the six of them manage to sit. A little wave behind, to Tonks, who returned it eagerly. Natasha manages to catch Bill’s eye, who only grinned terrifically, if a little nervously. Giving him a thumbs up, and a mouthed ‘love you’, which he returns quickly. Truly, Natasha couldn’t remember the last time he’d looked this happy — and his bride had yet to walk the aisle.

Bill says something aside to Charlie, who looks over at them as well. Waves, and bends closer to continue whispering to Bill. As the music starts then, and the crowd goes to stand, Natasha watches how Bill seemed to positively glow. But her gaze moves, then, when she notices that Charlie was not focused on the bride.

But her.

Natasha couldn’t find the words for what she felt, as her heart swelled. As Fleur seemed to glide past their seats, and everyone moved to sit once more when she reached the front. Even as Bill took her hands in his, and Rowan offered a tissue to Penny. When Barnaby just held her hand so tightly, his other arm hugging Tulip to his side, Charlie only seemed to be looking at her.

I love you, she says, with her entire being then.

As Bill and Fleur kiss, the balloons above popping in a shower of confetti, and everyone around them roaring with applause, Charlie says it back. I love you, always.

Not long after the ceremony, does Natasha find herself at a table with Tonks, talking about anything and everything. More closely, the last few years, with aurors and relationships, and Harry Potter, Dumbledore, being thrown on the table. Penny only chimes in when needed, as Tulip had taken up with being the only one to divulge details of the hurried wedding between Tonks and Remus, being one of the few witnesses to the union. And Natasha can see, with how Tonks seems to level Tulip with a warm, honest stare, with how they held hands despite the way Tulip seemed revitalised, teasing Tonks mercilessly, that she missed her. Treasured her.

Natasha hadn’t realised how much she had missed this. Surrounded by such people, such friends, made her feel. She would complain it was the champagne, making her feel weepy and vulnerable, but Barnaby sweeps her into a dance, and who was she to refuse? Merlin’s beard, she had forgotten just how broad Barnaby was, how safe he was.

“How have you been, Barnaby?” she asks, when he spins her for a third time.

“Great! Had a meeting with Newt Scamander last week, and he’s impressed with one of my works. I’ll be going overseas in a couple of weeks.” Barnaby’s tone is sure and measured, nothing like the boy he had been. Whilst his robes were a brilliantly deep green, as if to reflect that part of him too, Barnaby had grown. Natasha could see it, heart caught in her throat as she was so proud.

“That’s fantastic!” And he spins her once more. “I’m so happy for you!”

“How about you? How are you after… Durmstrang?” With a dark look, he does seem to catch a glimpse of the scars on her arm. Whilst she was not ashamed of them, Natasha was acutely aware that even under her dress, the worst of the damage could be seen in between the beading.

“I’ve been good. Doing a few odd jobs here and there.” Perhaps it was not safe, to mention that Durmstrang had asked for her to return once more. She distinctly remembered how Barnaby had been the one by her side at Saint Mungo’s for the longest time, quite afraid to leave. Even roped in his idol into helping identify what it had been that had attacked her.

“Still curse-breaking?”

“Of course!” Natasha laughs, trying to ease the mood. No need to worry about that now.

Just as Barnaby goes to dip her, there’s a form beside them. As they stop, Natasha lets out a “Bill!” while Barnaby forgoes decorum, and simply pulls him into a tight hug.

“Congratulations,” he says, voice thick once more. “I’m happy for you.”

“Thanks mate,” Bill responds, patting Barnaby on the back once more. “Glad you could make it.”

There’s a little half shrug from Barnaby, that doesn’t say much of anything. Only allows for Bill to pull Natasha into a fierce hug. She doesn’t want to let go, not really, after having him in her arms like this after all the time that had passed. Natasha doesn’t want to question the scars, the whispers. Only pulls back when she manages to stop herself from crying, and has to push him in the shoulder, laughter breaking in the back of her throat. “I can’t believe you got married before me!”

Bill, for his part, only laughs. “Not that you’re in any rush for it.” To the point, with how his eyes seem to quickly find the corner of the marquee. Natasha knew exactly which corner he was looking at, and tried very hard to smother her next look.

“Mind if I dance with Natasha for a bit?”

Barnaby waves them off, then. Almost manages to get off the floor, before being dragged right back on by Rowan. For her part, Natasha isn’t given much time to watch, as Bill takes her by the hand, and slowly begins stepping around.

“I missed you.”

Natasha really was going to cry, very, very soon. “I missed you, too.” How crazy it was, to be like this now. She could clearly remember standing likely in the exact same spot, only stargazing over summer, or making plans for the next year. What was she supposed to do with her friend now, really? Bill was practically shaking under her hands, nerves not quite worn off. She was so happy for him.

“Fleur… she’s beautiful, you know.”

He hums, and Natasha knows that look. Immediately seeking her out amongst the crowd, at the drop of her name. Knew that look, because it was exactly how she was, so madly in love. “She loves you, Bill. So much.”

“I would hope so. She did agree to marry me, after all.”

Rolling her eyes, Natasha has to argue a “not like that, idiot,” as he goes to spin her. “I mean it. You can just feel it off her. She’s so happy to have you in her life.” And that was the honest truth. Perhaps it was just the entire wedding itself, but Fleur had been nothing but bold faced and embracing of her feelings during the ceremony. Whispers or no, Natasha had seen, first hand, just how much this woman loved her best friend.

“I know.” Natasha hoped that Bill truly knew.

They grow silent, then, one more time around the dance floor. Just as the song was coming to a close, does Bill finally speak up once more.

“So, you and Charlie…” trails off, expectedly and purposely.

Natasha raises a brow, misses a step. They come to a standstill, still hand in hand. “What about ‘me and Charlie’?”

“Ah, don’t get defensive on me,” Bill chides her, with a pointed look. “I’m just asking if you’re back on or something.”

“I wouldn’t know. Why?”

“What do you mean ‘you don’t know’? Natasha, it’s been ten years already—” The way Bill stresses that, gives Natasha some realisations she wasn’t quite prepared for. But she bats those thoughts away, her next question already on the tip of her tongue.

“Where is this coming from?” a small amount of anger colours her tone, enough to raise her voice.

And had Bill not suddenly looked rather embarrassed, Natasha probably would’ve gotten a little more upset. The sudden change threw her off the scent, instead having her ask the question once more, this time a little more gentle. “Bill, where is this all coming from?”

“He made me promise not to say.”

That wasn’t good. “Bill.”

“Natasha, just thank me later.” At that, Bill actually skirts off, tail between his legs. Whatever it was, he really wanted to say. Which could only mean several sorts of answers that Natasha wasn’t quite ready for, really.

No? Could he…? Not to be swept up in her thoughts, Natasha turns, and collides with a rather firm chest. Hands catch her shoulders, steadying her immediately. She knew those hands quite well, and this was beginning to be a series of events she wasn’t sure she was ready for. But it had been ten years, just as Bill stressed. What did it all mean?

Charlie holds her upright, and his expression is soft, if a little watery. She had seen him singing with Hagrid before, and could only guess they’d shared a glass or two of fire whiskey. Not that it changed how he hugged her, firmly. Natasha slowly returned it, heart thumping in her chest. Oh. Well, this was the kind of celebration where people got that sort of thing into their heads.

When Charlie pulls back, he’s a little more sure. She could tell, how his shoulders were set and square, eyes a little tight at the corners. Almost like he was going to ask her ‘to talk’. Natasha wasn’t sure what she would say, if those words came tumbling out, because her hands couldn’t stop shaking at the thought.

Except, except, just as Charlie goes to open his mouth, a shot of light appears in the centre of the dance floor.

“The Ministry has fallen. Scrimgeour is dead. They are coming.”

#hogwarts mystery #harry potter #charlie weasley #jacob's sibling #bill weasley #hphm #*my fic #*natasha #*clicks fingers* Drama™

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rosapeachhogwartsmystery · 6 years

Text

Meet the Family and the Dog (Hogwarts Mystery Imagine - fem!reader x Barnaby Lee)

Masterlist (To view my Masterlist, visit my Tumblr page)

Request: Could I request a reader x Barnaby reader where the reader is a half-blood or something and has a dog (or another animal) and when Barnaby comes home with them one day he is ecstatic because he’s never gotten the chance to meet one. idk it was just an idea I had. Thanks! <3 :)

A/N: I thought this would be a good imagine to let MC introduce Barnaby to her family. The dog might seem to have a minor part in the story, but I hope you will enjoy it.

Y/M/N = Your mother’s name

Y/F/N = Your father’s name

Words: 2045

Pairing: fem!reader x Barnaby Lee

_________________________________________________

Barnaby and you have been dating for almost three years. Your parents were dying to finally meet him. It wasn’t like Barnaby didn’t want to meet your parents, but you just were a little embarrassed. Besides, you were finally seventeen, which meant you were an adult in the Wizarding World. That meant your parents shouldn’t be too strict with you, right? Anyways, you have taken Barnaby over to your house. He was excited and a bit nervous to meet your parents, after all they were your parents! If he wanted to become more serious with you then he definitely needed to meet them. He had been thinking about the future with you and he thought about perhaps living with you after you two graduate from Hogwarts. You two had been talking a little about it, but no plans were made yet. It definitely depended on what you both wanted to do in the future. He knew he wanted to become a Magizoolist, but you didn’t know what you wanted yet. You thought about becoming a healer or perhaps a Curse-breaker, but you weren’t sure yet.

You held Barnaby’s hand when you walked over to the front door. “Are you sure you want to meet them?” You asked, feeling nervous. You hoped your parents would approve of him and you didn’t know what you would do if they didn’t. “Of course. Besides, it would a little late to go back now.” He said honestly. “That’s true.” You said, slightly squeezing his hand. “I guess we should just go inside then.” You said before you opened the front door. Your nerves definitely got worse when you got inside with Barnaby. You closed the door behind you and sighed. “I’m home!” You called, knowing you should tell them you have returned. Barking was heard. Barnaby tilted his head, looking at you. Before you could say something, you heard something running towards you.

A large black dog was barking a bit, welcoming you home. Barnaby blinked. You never told him you had a dog at home. You began petting the dog with a smile. “Well, hello Hercules. Did you miss me?” You said. The dog, Hercules barked again, like he replied to you. Hercules began sniffing Barnaby, being curious about the new guest. Of course, Barnaby wasn’t afraid and began petting Hercules. “That is a really nice dog.” He said with a smile. “I’m surprised he lets you pet him so easily. He usually has to get used to new people.” You said. “Then again, you are really good with creatures, so a dog should be no problem.” You said with a laugh. “You never told me you have a dog, I would have brought a treat or something if I knew.” He said. “Well, I don’t really talk much about home, do I? Except for talking about Jacob.” You said. Last year, Jacob was found and he was currently living with your parents.

A woman came into the hallway with a smile. Your mom definitely was excited to me your boyfriend, you could just see it. “You must be Barnaby Lee, right?” She asked when she walked over to Barnaby. He nodded. “Yes, I am. Nice to meet you, Ms. Y/L/N.” He said. Your mom simply gave him a hug and then she studied him for a moment. “Please, call me Y/M/N.” She said and then she looked at you. “You took so long, I thought you would have convinced him not to come.” She said, amused. You rolled your eyes. “Well, I might have considered it…” You joked. Your mother shook your head and then he looked at Barnaby. “Well, come on in. Y/N, you can lead him to the living room, right?” She said. “Of course.” You said and then you led him to the living room. Of course, Hercules followed you.

Your father was sitting in his usual chair, reading the Daily Prophet. He immediately put it down and stood up. He looked so serious when he walked over to Barnaby. “So, you are the boy that is dating my daughter…?” He asked. Barnaby wondered if your father already didn’t like him. “Yes, I am. I’m Barnaby Lee, nice to meet you, Mr. Y/L/N.” He said, holding out his hand to shake hands with your father. He suddenly broke out grinning and shook his hand. “So formal, but you have a firm handshake, I like that!” He said amused. You just shook your head in annoyance. Your father just was messing with your boyfriend. “Also, you can call me Y/F/N.” He said and then he pointed to the couch. “Please, take a seat.” He said. Barnaby and you sat down next to each other on the couch. You just hoped Barnaby didn’t think your parents were weird people. Your mom began asking if you two wanted tea. After that she sat down on a chair as well.

Jacob entered the room, still wearing his pajamas. Your mother frowned. “Jacob! Get dressed already. It’s almost noon!” Your mother scolded. You face palmed, wondering why this kind of things happened now. Jacob blinked and then he looked at you and Barnaby. “Oh, I thought you were joking that Y/N would bring Barnaby home.” He said with a smirk. He looked at you amused and you shot him a glare. “Well, the next time I’m downstairs, I promise I will be dressed.” He said with a chuckle, quickly getting out of the living room. Your whole family was just crazy, you were sure of it. You could blame your madness on them. You looked at Barnaby. He didn’t seem to be disturbed by anything he saw, so that was good. You sighed softly, wondering what kind of questions your parents would ask him.

Hercules began walking over to Barnaby, basically asking to be petted again. Barnaby just petted the dog and your dad was surprised. “My, Hercules never let new people pet him that easily. You must be really good with animals.” He said. “Oh, I’m good with handling pets and creatures.” Barnaby said. “His best subject is Care of Magical Creatures.” You said with a smile. “Interesting. It definitely wasn’t my best subject during my Hogwarts days. Everything was still very new back then.” He said. “Y/F/N is a Muggleborn.” Your mother explained. “That is probably one of the reasons why we have a dog in the house.” She said with a grin. “Hey, you like dogs as well, Y/M/N.” Your father said. “But yes, I wanted to have a dog in the house. My parents used to have a dog after all. It just feels right to have Hercules around. Besides, he is a pretty big dog and can scare unwanted visitors away.” He said with a grin.

“I think dogs are great pets. It’s a shame they don’t allow them at Hogwarts.” Barnaby said. “Yeah, I was disappointed in that as well. I did have an owl back at my Hogwarts days, but it definitely wasn’t the same as a dog.” Your father said. Your father seemed to like Barnaby. That was definitely a relief. You wanted your parents to get along with your boyfriend after all. It would make things so much better if they just approved of him, especially because you two were pretty serious about each other. You both matured over the year and you knew you could trust him. There was mutual trust, which was a sign of a healthy relationship, right? Being here with him was nerve wrecking, even though it was looking good so far.

“Is it true your father was a Death Eater?” Your father asked. Barnaby froze a little. He didn’t expect such a question. “Father…! You can’t just ask that.” You said, frowning a little. “I just want to get to know him and I want to know a little about his family, what is wrong with that?” Your father said. Barnaby looked at you and gave you a smile. “It’s all right.” He said and then he looked at your father. “It is true, my father was a Death Eater and he is currently in Azkaban.” He said. “I see…” Your father said. “Just one more question. Do you wish to follow the same path as your father and join You-Know-Who?” He asked. You gave your father a weird look. “Of course not.” Barnaby said. “I mean, I do not believe in the ideas You-Know-Who has. Even if my father would want me to, I won’t do it.” He said honestly. “All right, that is all I wanted to know.” Your father said.

“You are a good boy, Barnaby.” Your father said. “I’m sure you have taken good care of Y/N so far. She is definitely very fond of you.” He said. You blushed slightly. Barnaby was slightly amused when he glanced at you. He could tell you were embarrassed by the questions your father asked him. He didn’t mind it. He kind of expected your parents to ask some questions. He might not completely saw the question about his father coming, but he could manage it. He had been thinking about that question quite often. Did he want to turn out like his father or become someone else? He figured it out not too long ago. He might see some good qualities in his father, but he didn’t want to turn out completely the same. He wanted to be strong, so he would be able to face all kind of Magical Creatures as a Magizoolist.

Your mother also asked Barnaby questions. Mostly about his future. She could understand he wanted to become a Magizoolist. Barnaby was passionate about it, she could tell. Perhaps it would help you figure out what you wanted to do in the future as well. You only have one year left and then you would have to choose something. She knew you were still struggling with that, but at least you were trying to figure something out. You had many options with your N.E.W.T. results. You could become a Healer or an Auror. Perhaps a Curse-breaker, but perhaps it would be better to stay away from cursed things after the Cursed Vaults, your mother thought. She knew she couldn’t stop Jacob though.

After a long day you led Barnaby up to your room. You had convinced your parents to let Barnaby stay in your room when he would stay over. You couldn’t imagine what kind of things Jacob would do when Barnaby would have to share a room with your brother. The guestroom already was ruined by Jacob, who was experimenting with something. He was smart enough to not experiment in his own room, but you knew how pissed your parents were when they found out what Jacob did. Besides that, Jacob was your brother. He would definitely ask Barnaby all kind of things and tells him embarrassing stories or something. He would do everything to tease you. He wouldn’t go too far, but you would still end up being embarrassed.

“This is my room. As you can see, the bed is big enough for both of us.” You said with a grin. “Ah, you want to share your bed with me.” Barnaby said amused, only blushing slightly. “Of course, I’m not going to let you sleep on the floor. Besides, this is way more comfortable than sneaking into each other’s dormitory at Hogwarts, right?” You whispered the last part in his ear. “Well, if you didn’t come up with the idea I probably wouldn’t have thought of it. But, it is always so nice to sleep next to you.” He whispered back, grinning slightly. “The only thing that is hard is sneaking out. We are lucky Snape or another professor haven’t caught us yet.” He said honestly. “Well, I’m pretty sure no other student would snitch on us. I know some other couples that are doing the same things.” You said amused.

Suddenly Hercules walked into your room. Your father smirked slightly. “I thought you two would like the company of the dog, right?” He said. “Have a good night you two.” He said before he passed your room. You groaned, knowing why your father did that. You really were considering to move out as soon as you graduated.

#harry potter hogwarts mystery #hogwarts mystery #hogwarts mobile game #harry potter imagine #hogwarts mystery imagine #imagine #jacob's sibling #jacob hogwarts mystery #mc #fem!reader #female reader #barnaby lee #reader x barnaby lee #muggleborn #half-blood

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pennywaltzy · 5 years

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Every English Village Has Its Secrets (3/?) (An “In Our Neck Of The Woods” Story)

OMG, so apparently I had chapter 3 of this mostly written out during last year’s WIPBB round, and didn’t realize it until I saw that I only had two chapters up on AO3 and realized I hadn’t posted it. A quick finish and voila! Here you all go!

Every English Village Has Its Secrets - When Greg and Sally get called to Midsomer County for a case, right from the start Greg knows it will be a headache when Mycroft offers him lodging (so long as he's alright with his former lover being his housemate for his time there), and it doesn't get much better when he meets DCI Tom Barnaby and immediately their Detective Sergeants take an instant dislike to each other when Sally arrives the next evening. And that isn't even getting into the actual case itself and all the secrets hidden in the village of Elverton-cum-Latterley...

READ CHAPTER 1 | READ CHAPTER 3 | HELP ME SURVIVE? | COMMISSION ME? | BUY ME A KOFI?

He woke up to an empty cottage and a fresh pot of coffee with some cereal choices and a few scones to take with him to Causton. That had been one of the more endearing things about Mycroft; to most people, he came off as a snob, but if he truly cared about you, so long as you weren’t family, he was quite the softie and very adamant on taking care of everyone else. It was an attribute he had thought his wife shared but sadly, that had not turned out to be the case.

He had only been out to Causton once, and not from this part of England, and he wanted to meet Barnaby at a setting other than the crime scene, just to make sure his presence would be tolerated. He had the feeling Sally might cause a bit of discomfort between themselves and the Causton CID but it couldn’t be helped. She was caustic but brilliant, almost like Sherlock. He felt that was probably one of the many reasons his DS and his consultant hated each other, but he managed to more or less keep the peace between them so hopefully he could do the same here.

He went looking around for a map and after a moment found one near the telephone, just where his mum had kept hers. One day he’d have to ask Mycroft about this, about whether he had been in contact with her before her death and gotten the chance to properly say good-bye. Otherwise, there might be a trip up North in order so he could. He loved his mother, but she absolutely would have seen Mycroft without telling him she was.

Not that he blamed her. Mycroft had let him meet his family once and that had been one time too many. It was obvious there had been something wrong with the way he was raised, and while he’d always suspected it was an outside influence on Mycroft’s part, his parents had made very sure Mycroft knew he was not the favoured child. Sherlock hadn’t been there for the visit, but it had become extremely obvious that Sherlock was the one who held that position in the Holmes family.

His own mum, on the other hand, was one of the kindest women he’d ever met, opening her door to anyone who needed a safe space for a night or a warm meal. He’d always wondered why she had never been taken advantage of when she got older. Perhaps Mycroft had had a hand in that.

So many questions, but at least now there was a chance he might get answers.

He studied the map, then poured some coffee into a thermos for the drive and stashed two scones on a plate to eat in the car. He supposed he’d get chided for crumbs in the seat but he didn’t care. The sooner he got this case taken care of, or whatever his part in it ended up being was all wrapped up, the sooner he could take advantage of what was to have been his holiday.

It didn’t take long to find Causton, surprisingly, and finding where the police were housed was even easier than he had expected once he got into the proper area. Causton, unlike London, had changed very little in the time since his last visit. Maybe one day when London got to be too much, he’d retire to a place like this.

He made his way into the Causton CID and once he flashed his credentials he was directed to where Barnaby and his DS were situated in the building. It wasn’t all that different than the NSY, he mused as he made his way by glass windowed offices with desks and paperwork piled high on them and not much else in the way of personalization. By the time he got to Barnaby he was greeted by a man almost Sally’s age, perhaps a bit older but not much, and he showed him the last bit of the way before going past and handing another man a file. “I ran into the detective inspector from London,” the young man said, and then he frowned as he straightened up and smoothed his rather garish tie down. “DI…?”

“Lestrade,” Greg said, holding out a hand for the younger man to shake. “But Gregory will do.”

“Pleasure to meet you, DI Lestrade,” the young man said.

“Troy, if a superior officer says to call him something else, you call him by what he prefers,” the man sitting at the desk said in the tone he recognized as “my DS is still green, so please be patient.” Greg cracked a smile to reassure the young man that there was no harm done, and he relaxed as his superior officer stood. “Tom Barnaby.”

“Pleasure,” Greg said, offering Barnaby his hand. The two men shook hands and he was pleased to see that Barnaby knew the secret to a good handshake. Perhaps that was another lesson he’d pass along to the younger man. “My Detective Sergeant had some personal business to attend to so she’ll be arriving later, but I thought I’d come in and see if I’m even needed.”

There was a slight scoff from Troy at the mention of Sally being female but Barnaby only gave a sharp glance and it tapered into silence almost instantly. “Well, I don’t know if you’re needed, per se, but it never hurts to have another set of eyes and ears on hand. And if it makes dealing with the family easier with you being here...”

“You can fob me off on them if you need to,” Lestrade said. “Despite my superiors and the family wanting me to come in and take over, I’m fully aware it’s proper to be support.”

Barnaby gave him an approving nod. “There aren’t many like you in London I bet, Gregory.”

Greg chuckled. “I’ll admit I’m a dying breed, yeah. But that’s the way I like it. Hopefully, I can impart some wisdom on Donovan and she’ll continue the line at least a little longer.” He nodded to the seat across from Barnaby. “Perhaps you could fill me in?”

“We were about to go back to the crime scene if you’d like to view it,” Troy said. Then he glanced at Barnaby to make sure it was alright that he had interjected.

“By all means, join us. But Troy?” Barnaby said.

“Yes?” Troy asked, his eyes widening slightly.

“I think I’ll be driving and our guest will be in the passenger seat. You can sit in the back.”

“Yes, sir,” Troy said, looking sheepish. “I’ll go get the car, sirs.” And with that, he left.

“He tends to get a bit...distracted,” Barnaby said. “I don’t think Scotland Yard would be pleased with us if we managed to get you mangled in a car accident.”

Greg chuckled. “No, I suppose not.” Barnaby stood up and the two men left. He had the feeling things were going well so far. Whether this would continue when Sally and Troy actually met, well...it was too soon to tell.

#sherlock #midsomer murders #mystrade #tom x joyce #fanfic #fanfiction #greg lestrade #tom barnaby #gavin troy #my au: in our neck of the woods #Multipart: Every English Village Has Its Secrets

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kawaiidoodles95-blog · 4 months

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The Stranger Stampy Circus

The first chapter of a long series I am making!

Anyways, I hope you enjoy TSSC!

Chapter 1: Stampy

“Stampy? Is that you?”

“And who might you be?”

#stampy’s lovely world #stampy cat #william beaver #fizzy elephant #stampy's lovely world #stampylonghead #polly reindeer #veeva dash #dark fanfiction #crossover

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mastrmiscellaneous · 6 years

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Children of Death Eaters

the first meeting of Merula, Ismelda, and Barnaby, and how they react seeing each other again after years of separation.

Word Count: 1940

1978…

“Darius, I’m not sure I should go to this meeting.” Ariadne Snyde sat on their bed, drumming her fingers on her thigh, while watching her husband get ready. “No one can look after Merula, and these meetings are no place for a child.”

“Ari, trust me, I don’t want to take her either, but we have no choice.” Darius replied, tying his tie in the mirror. “Plus, the Murk’s have a daughter, and she’ll be in a separate room. Merula can stay with her. I also hear the Lee’s are taking their son.”

Ariadne played with her ring, twirling it around her finger, and drawing circles around the emerald and black diamond of her engagement ring.

“I don’t think I trust the Murks. They are strange people.”

Darius finished straightening his tie, and turned to his wife, smiling at her comfortingly. “I agree, they are quite extreme, but do we really have a choice? We can’t leave Merula here alone. Anyway, I think we should have her get a foundation of friendship between the Lee boy, and Murk girl, so she has friends of a worthy status when she goes to Hogwarts.”

“I guess that’s a good point…” She muttered, still fiddling with her rings. “Ok. I’ll go wake up Merula, and get her ready.”

“Ok. Ready in an hour?”

“Sure.”

Ariadne rose from the bed and wandered to her daughter’s room. She hated that Merula had to be anywhere near Death Eater meetings, but they had no choice; their parents were dead, the usual nanny they had to look after Merula was missing, and they both needed to be there.

She reached her daughter’s room, and opened the door, revealing a smaller sized room, the curtains still drawn, and Merula still tucked in, curled up, asleep, on her small bed. Ariadne stood in place at the door for a moment, taking in the image of her sleeping daughter; short, brown hair ruffled, legs tucked up to her chest, as tight as she could get, large eyes closed, and a small smile on her face as she dreamed a pleasant dream.

Ariadne loved these moments. Moments when there was no fear, nervousness, or shame radiating from her daughter. Moments where her daughter was what she was supposed to be: a child, and nothing more or less. Just the 6-year-old girl she was.

Merula shuffled in her sleep, and Ariadne broke out of her trance, creeping over to the bed and crouching at her side and touching her shoulder.

“Merula, darling, wake up.” She gently shook her shoulder, waking up the girl. Merula slowly opened her eyes and grumbled, not liking the awakening. “Good morning, Merula.”

The girl yawned, quietly, rubbing her eyes and sitting up to look at her mother.

“So, Merula, your father and I need to go to a meeting, and you need to come with us.”

Merula cocked her head to the side in confusion. “I thought I was too young to go?”

“You are, but we have no choice but to take you. Anyway, there’s going to be two other kids your age, so you can play with them while we work.”

At that comment, Merula’s big, purple eyes lit up in excitement. She had never really met anyone her own age before, and the thought of possibly making a friend or two excited her beyond relief. “Really?”

“Yes.” Ariadne confirmed. She took her daughter’s hands and pulled her out of bed. “Now, come on. Let’s get ready, so we can go!”

An hour later, Merula was washed, dressed, fed, and ready to go. She bounced in excitement at the door, waiting for her parents to gather their wands and other items. She was extremely happy to finally have the opportunity to make a friend.

“Merula, don’t bounce, it’s not lady-like.” Ariadne called from across the entrance hall, as she reached the bottom of the stairs.

“Sorry, Mamma.” Merula said, stopping bouncing, crossing her arms and pouting, looking down to hide her pout.

“That’s ok, darling. Just remember what I taught you.”

Darius strode towards the front door, sliding his wand into his inside pocket and readying himself to leave.

“Are you too ready?”

“Yes, we are.” Ariadne answered, taking Merula’s hand and following her husband out of the door.

They dissapperated while half way down the driveway.

A few seconds later, they arrived at the drive of another grand house: the residents of the Murk family.

They strode up to the front door and Darius knock, loud and proud, the couple straightening their backs, and Merula shuffling behind her mother’s legs, suddenly nervous to be here.

After a minute, a woman appeared at the door: 5’6’’, jet black hair, sparkling green eyes.

“Hello, Snyde, Ariadne.” She greeted, opening the door fully. “It’s great to see you here.”

“Hello, Mrs Murk.” Darius nodded at the woman in greeting. “Are we in the usual room?”

“Yes, we are.”

Darius thanked the woman, and walked into the house, striding off to the back, into the large dining room.

“Stella, this is Merula.” Ariadne guided her daughter in front of her, presenting her like a prize to the other woman. “We couldn’t leave her today; can she stay with your daughter until we are done?”

“Of course, she can. Ismelda’s room is upstairs, second on the left.” She stepped to the side and pointed to the stairs. “By the way, the Lee boy is also here.”

“Ok. I’ll see you in a minute. Come on, Merula.”

She guided her daughter up the stairs and towards the Murk girl’s room, opening the door and pushing Merula in, immediately closing the door and leaving.

Merula suddenly froze in place, eyes wide, not knowing what to do now. She stood in the doorway, staring into the room where she saw; a small, neatly-made bed, a small desk and chair, an open chest filled with toys, and a round, green carpet in the centre of the room, with a young, dark haired boy and girl sat, staring at her, waiting for her to say something.

“Erm… Hi.” She said, quietly, waving timidly at the other kids.

“Hello… who are you?” the girl said, eyeing Merula, suspiciously.

“Oh, erm… I’m Merula Snyde.”

The other kids stood up and walked towards her, the girl stopping directly in front of her. she held out her hand and smiled. “Ismelda Murk.”

Merula accepted the handshake, then turned to the boy. “Who are you?”

They boy looked startled for a second, then confused, then he realised what she had asked, and smiled, almost yelling, “I’m Barnaby! Barnaby Lee!”

Merula looked startled, but smiled at him, timidly. Ismelda grabbed Merula’s hand and pulled her towards the circular carpet, sitting down with her, Barnaby close behind.

The three children talked and bonded over the little things that made them them. Once they were bored of talking, Ismelda rooted through her chest, and pulled out tree sticks, handing two to the others. They pretended to do magic, fighting each other, and re-enacting what they thought their parents did.

They had so much fun, playing together, and Merula felt ecstatic at finally meeting some kids her age, and actually forming a relationship with them. She finally felt like she was having fun, and having friends felt so amazing. They made Merula forget all of the terrible things her father did and said, and they made her feel relaxed. She never stopped smiling, and she had never laughed this much in the space of a few hours, and they felt so comfortable together.

After several hours, the door opened, revealing three women (two brunettes, and one with black hair).

“Hi mummy!” Barnaby shouted, dashing to on of the brunettes and hugging her legs.

“Hello, Mamma!” Merula smiled, and hugged her mother, smiling as wide as she possibly could.

“You look like you had fun.” Ariadne whispered to her daughter, smiling.

“I really did! Issy and Barny are really fun!”

“Oh really? That’s great!” Ariadne stood up straight. “But we need to go, now. Say goodbye.”

Merula turned to Ismelda and smiled, saying goodbye to her new friend. Ismelda hesitated, but grabbed her and pulled her into a hug. Barnaby wrapped his arms around his two friends, and Merula and Barnaby ran to their mothers, still grinning like mad men.

Ariadne and Merula met Darius at the front door, Merula bouncing over to him happily.

“You had fun, then?” He asked.

She nodded, furiously. “They are so fun!”

“Well, that’s good.” He adjusted his overcoat, and readied himself to leave. “You ready, then?”

“Yes. Let’s go.”

Ariadne took Merula’s hand, and strode off at the side of her husband, Merula almost running to keep up with her parents.

Merula accompanied her parents to more and more meetings as she got closer to Ismelda and Barnaby, their relationship blossoming further and further, until they were the best of friends.

That was, until Darius and Ariadne Snyde were arrested, and Ismelda and Barnaby didn’t see Merula for several years, until their first year in Hogwarts, in the train for their first year.

Ismelda and Barnaby walked down the train. Looking for a compartment to sit in together. As they got closer to the end of the train, the compartments were less full, so they were getting hopeful that they could get their own.

They looked through the glass of each compartment, looking for an empty one, when Barnaby looked into a compartment on the left and noticed someone familiar.

“Hey, Ismelda, do you recognise that girl?”

She looked in and her eyes widened. “Holy Merlin, that’s Merula Snyde! Wow, she looks different…”

“Well, let’s talk to her! We haven’t seen her in years.”

“Yeah, ok!” Ismelda said, excitably, pushing in front of Barnaby, and opening the compartment door.

“Merula Snyde?”

Merula looked up from her book, looking absolutely terrible. Her eyes were sad and covered in dark eye-shadow, her hair was a mess, with a new ginger tuft in the front. She looked skinny and dishevelled, and she sat in an awkward position, like she was avoiding leaning on certain parts of her body.

However, once she realised who had said her name, a small smile spread up her face, and a small huff of joy escaped her throat.

“Murk?” she looked behind Ismelda. “Lee?”

She put down her book and stood up, stepped closer to Ismelda and pulled her into a tight hug. “It’s so good to see you.”

Ismelda was shocked at the sudden embrace, but smiled slightly and reciprocated the hug, happy that they had found their old friend again.

“Don’t leave me out!” Barnaby said, grabbing the two girls and pulling them into a tight embrace.

After a few seconds, Merula loosened her grip and pulled away from the hug. She smiled, and sat back down, in her original space, then looked at the two, expectantly.

“Well, are you coming in?” She asked, sounding kind of aggressive.

“Ok.” They smiled, dragging their trunks in and shoving them on the overhead compartment.

They talked for the whole train ride, Ismelda and Barnaby realising that this was a different Merula than who they met so many years ago. This one was angry, depressed, and defensive, refusing to talk about multiple subjects, like what life is like now, and her parents.

Once the train had stopped in Hogsmeade, Merula grabbed her things, and dashed off, leaving Barnaby and Ismelda alone.

“She’s different now…” Barnaby said, sadly. “I don’t know if I like it…”

“Yeah…” Ismelda agreed. “Well, I guess we have to just reform a relationship with her. we just need to learn how…”

#little merula is adorable and i love her #shes so cute #and awkward around people #little ismelda isnt insane either #they are all cute #merula snyde #barnaby lee #ismelda murk #slytherin children #death eaters #hogwarts mystery #ariadne snyde #darius snyde

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