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Chapter Text

Tommy was loyal to a fault.

It was obvious when he'd always defend Wilbur, because in the beginning Wilbur was all that he had. He stood by Wilbur's side, mere ten years old and yelled at people who would mock his brother for being Slytherin.

When he was five, a boy with a big grin gave him animal snacks, since then Tommy has stood by Tubbo through thick and thin. He fought off the boy's bullies when they were younger, proclaimed the boy his younger brother. He practically was.

That's beside the point. What he's trying to say is that he's always been loyal, even when he'd hurt, he was loyal.

And Tommy was terrified of that.

There had always been the fear of being loyal, or following the wrong person. At times, though he'd never admit it, doubted Wilbur. The boy when he'd just was sorted into Slytherin, had been cruel. Cruel to everyone around him. Cruel to Phil, Techno, and most of all to him.

Wilbur would laugh at him when he'd ask the older boy if he could sleep in his room at night, nightmares had always been a problem for him. But the older boy had stared down at him with dead eyes and shut the door in his face.

He would mock him, taking advantage of any little weakness he would show. Wilbur would eye him with sharp eyes when he would stay away from that lake near their house. He would try and destroy the very relationship between them, as if he was scared for Tommy to be close.

But Tommy could never give up on Wilbur because he knew him. He's known him since Wilbur would come into his room, eyes glazed and red for reasons he would never tell. He's known Wilbur when he tried be someone he wasn't. He's been there for all the stages Wilbur went through and stood with him through all of it.

He was his brother and best friend. So Tommy stuck by the older boy, despite what others told him. He ignored his classmates and Techno's pitying looks, he would never give up on Wilbur. Even with the hurt it brought to even be near him, he would stay.

Eventually it worked out, because Wilbur broke down and let everything out. He talked about how people at Hogwarts weren't kind. His house nor others. He let out the burden he felt. He explained the guilt that plagued him on a daily basis, when he looked at their own family.

So that time his loyalty paid off.

But he fears that there will be times where he'll be hurt to the point where he can't trust. He's afraid that he'll be betrayed. He's worried about many things, especially with the time he has to think. Sitting in an old mansion with nothing but maids and butlers who offer nothing except food left in the grand dining room. Or the laundry that's left on his bed.

So Tommy hide his loyalty with a toothy grin and a mean tongue. He let people call him the, 'annoying kid' that lived in that empty manor. He fought people, came home with bleeding knuckles and a bleeding heart when he cleaned himself up, all alone.

Somewhere along the road he was no longer that kid who followed around his older brother. But a kid who was loud, reckless, adventurous, and more than all independent. He did things himself, he didn't care all too much for friendships. (Except for Tubbo because he could never manage to cut him off.)

The only real friend he could say that he had was Tubbo. Though he'd never admit that aloud. The only thing he'll admit aloud is, "You're a stupid bee boy and I don't like you."

The boy will stare at him with piercing eyes, knowing but silent as he'll say nothing. Because when he protects Tubbo and beats up whoever says anything slightly condescending to the boy, the truth is obvious.

Somewhere along the way it was easier to hide. He embraced how reckless he was, he was brash, and he was more playful than anything.

The strings of loyalty that remained was few and far between. Easier to not immediately forgive Wilbur when he'd do something stupid. Easier to not do anything to please Techno. Easier to stare past his father.

All was well and good until he hit the age eleven. Well, more precisely a week before he turned eleven. To be exact, at 12:01 am. His window open, as cool air slipped in his all too hot room for this time of year.

A hoot from an owl echoed through his room. He had slammed his head into the headboard, and he scrambled off his bed. Ready to scream bloody murder if there was a serial killer outside of his house.

He blinked when the owl hooted again, its yellow eyes staring right at him. It held something in it's mouth before dropping it through the crack in his window. Before flying away in the distant clouds, off to who knows where.

He stood there eyeing the suspicious looking letter. It could've been from Phil, but his letters were far and few in between. Besides he'd never send something so late. It'd most likely be Wilbur, he liked to be more daring and rule breaking. But he usually sent a gift with a small card, nothing in a form of a letter. While the older boy had always been good with words, he was quite horrible with a quill.

He had slowly inched towards the letter before snatching it off the ground. He looked at the back before flipping it over to the front, where a red stamp with the letter, 'H' stood out.

His mouth dropped in shock because he knew what it meant, prime everyone knew what it meant! Everyone in the wizarding world knew Hogwarts and it's stamp, kids from his school would always talk about it in glee when talking about the magical school.

After it hit him he quickly opened the letter, for confirmation. To ensure it wasn't a joke. While Wilbur wasn't as mean, he still had a streak for doing cruel pranks. That was something the older boy could never give up on. Though he had evened himself out, at least in front of him. Since he did go crying to Phil when Wilbur had joked about never coming home again one year before he left for Hogwarts.

But there in slick black letters was his name and an invitation, for him Tommy Craft.

If he squeals in joy and jumps all around his room, that's no one's business.

Tommy first meets Ranboo when they're waiting for the train to arrive. He sits on top of his baggage while he waits for the train arrive. He kicks his feet back and forth while eating some marshmallows that he nicked from Tubbo. His raccoon in the cage next to him chitters.

Yes you heard him right. He does, in fact, have a raccoon.

He found it on the streets, quite literally. The raccoon was digging around in the garbage when he found her.

It was like it was meant to be. The raccoon had stopped it's scavenging to look at him and he looked at the raccoon with gleaming eyes. Deciding right then and there that, that raccoon was going to be his pet.

Now some many ask why does he have a raccoon, there are many answers to the question. One is simply because Clementine, as he named her, was fucking rad. Secondly, he wanted to piss of Phil since the man had just sent him money and said, 'Sorry mate but you're going to have to go shopping by yourself. I'm busy preparing for the upcoming school year.' So yeah some part of this is to get back at Phil.

To be precise around 70% of it was out of revenge. Not that he'd ever admit to it.

He's getting off topic.

Anyway Clementine chitters and he stares at her for a second before offering her a marshmallow. She doesn't hesitate to grab it and take a bit out of it. He's watching her and debating whether or not to give her another marshmallow when he meets Ranboo.

The boy had quite literally ran straight into his cart, to be more precise the boy had ran into him. So with that in mind, he falls off the cart and flat on his face. Somewhere behind him Clementine chitters.

His eye twitches as he uses his arms to push himself off the ground. He turns around and narrows his eyes at the person behind him. He notes that they are tall, extremely tall. Taller than him, which means a lot because he was six foot. He also noted that their eyes were two different colors, red and green. He couldn't decide if that was magic or contacts because he has never in his life seen someone with eye colors like that.

They instantly rush to apologize, as they should. "I'm so sorry about that, I'm just in a rush-" They inhale heavily before continuing, "I really didn't mean to do that. Just that I'm going to Hogwarts and I'm kinda freaking out."

He takes some pity on the boy because he can understand the feeling. Hogwarts is stressful, no matter the occasion. Especially if it's your first time there. The place was a huge deal. So he lets out a sigh, "It's fine mate."

He leaves it at that.

Or he attends to.

In the heat of everything the train had pulled up. Tommy blinks and moves to make sure everything was place in his cart and he didn't drop anything in his fall. When he confirms that he has everything he pushes his cart along to where they'd put their baggage.

He can a squeaky pair of wheels behind him and it's definitely not him. The person behind him lets out a small cough, "I'm Ranboo."

He's silent for a moment, debating if he should just not respond. Maybe pretend he can't hear the other boy. But eventually he caves and responds. The awkwardness remains as he answers curtly. "I'm Tommy."

He doesn't get a chance to say anything else because the person loading up baggage stares at him with horror. Before going on a rant about how raccoons aren't allowed in Hogwarts. So he spent five minutes arguing with the man. He almost got into a fistfight with the man when he called Clementine a, 'nasty garbage rat.' How rude could the man get?!

After a series of threats the man had caved with gritted teeth. He was smug as flipped the man off before grabbing Clementine from her cage. She hissed at the man, which made said man flinch back and scramble to do something else.

Ah, he was proud.

The intercom sounded off notifying him that the train was about to leave. He quickly hurried into the train. He saw the boy, Ranboo from earlier in a train cabin sitting with two other people. He moves past them and looks for an open cabin. All he finds however are ones with people who are unwillingly to share with him or just ones that are packed.

He sighs before heading back to Ranboo's cabin. He knocks on the cabin door, the people in the cabin look up. They stare at him for a split second before Ranboo opens the cabin door for him.

He sighs and sits down next to him, Clementine sits on his lap. The person across from him lets out a squeak. He can already sense something off from the guy. Mostly because of the noise he had let out when he saw Clementine. He decides right then and there that the guy's name is Tim. He doesn't bother trying to learn his actual name.

The boy - Todd, wait was it Todd or Tim? Uhhh, Tim squints his eyes, "Is that a raccoon."

He tilts his head as he smiles sharply. "Well what do you think it is, a bloody frog?"

Tim's eye twitches but the boy answers calmly. "Just didn't think that raccoons was something that Hogwarts allowed."

What's with people thinking raccoons weren't made for Hogwarts? Well he can't help that they're all stupid enough to not want a raccoon as a companion. He frowns, his eyes narrowed. "Why do you think that."

Tim raises an eyebrow. "Well they're garbage eating bastards." He continues as he sits up in his seat. "Don't know why anyone would want them."

Clementine lifts her head from his lap to stare at the person across from them. As if sensing the slander that was happening. The other boy who sits next to them lets out a nervous laugh as he changes the topic. "So, are all of you excited for Hogwarts."

He decides that he likes this guy better than the other. So he gives a slightly better name. Jim.

Ranboo responds eagerly, "Yeah definitely. A bit nervous too, didn't even know there was a school for kids with magic a few weeks before this."

He raises an eyebrow. To not have heard about Hogwarts is incredibly odd. From everywhere around the world, Hogwarts was renowned place. It's the stuff that kids achieve for. Everyone wishes to get into Hogwarts, or they at least know about it.

Which means Ranboo is most likely a muggle.

It seems everyone else in the cabin got the same idea too but Jim lets out a tiny gasp and leans forward. "You're a muggle?!" They look astonished as they add on, "I've never met one before!"

Ranboo shifts in his seat as he hesitates before asking, "Muggle...?"

He answers for the boy blankly, "Means you grew up in a non magic family."

Ranboo blinks before responding with a smile. "Oh yeah, I'm from America." He rubs the back on his neck, "Learning about the magic world as a bit of a shock."

Tommy's brow srunches up, what the fuck? This dude is from fucking America. He internally shakes his head in disappointment.

Tommy's eyes drift toward the other person in the cabin, Tim. Who's staring at Ranboo in disgust and a bit of shock. He opens his mouth to speak and Tommy wishes he hadn't. "You're one of those filthy muggles."

All talk in the cabin instantly stops. Tommy stares at them in horror, so does the other boy in the cabin. Hatred for muggles wasn't something new in the magical world. It's been around for ages. However the hate for muggles have gone down at lot. But to be against muggles so bluntly and outwardly, well that's definitely a shocker.

Ranboo frowns "Uh, sorry still new to this whole thing." Ranboo pauses, "What is that supposed to mean?" The other boy in the cabin winces. Getting into a whole conversation about the hatred of muggles would do nothing to comfort Ranboo.

It seems as though the boy understands that he's being insulted. But he doesn't seem to have the context of why he's being called that. But everyone else in the cabin definitely does.

Tommy does especially. Growing up a pureblood household meant going to all of those stupid fucking parties. It meant having to pretend to be interested listening to grown ass adults spew their takes on how they should destroy the muggles.

He interrupts as he asks, with anger in his voice. "Why the fuck would you say that?"

Ranboo scrunches back, eyes drifting to him. Watching his reaction with confusion.

Tim across the cabin crosses his arms, "It's what he is, right?"

Ranboo shakes his head, "Can someone explain what that means?"

He shakes his head and tries to stop himself from exploding as he answer with a calm voice. "Get out of here." The other boy stiffens but doesn't move. As if he has the right to sit here. "Get the fuck out."

The boy doesn't do anything for split second before sighing and standing up with narrowed eyes. He opens the cabin doors harshly and Jim beside him winces. Jim glances to Ranboo with an apologetic look on his face. "I'm sorry about that."

He follows after his friend, distantly he can hear the scolding.

Ranboo turns towards him, a conflicted look on his face as he asks. "What does that mean? I can assume it means nothing good."

He grimaces and he answers. "Some people uh," He pauses trying to find the right words. "aren't fans of muggles with them living without knowledge of magic. Think they shouldn't have the right to use magic and shit."

Ranboo slumps into his seat, "Oh I see."

He stares at the other boy and there is an overwhelming part of him that wants to comfort the boy. After a minute of quietly stewing he blurts out. "Well doesn't matter they think."

The other boy smiles weakly, "Yeah?"

He nods in confirmation. "They're the ones who's all about the purebloods should be the only wizards."

Ranboo sits up slowly as he quietly whispers as if it's a bad word, "Pureblood?"

Ah right. It's really painful to explain all of this stuff but Ranboo was going to have to learn it sooner or late. Either now or get publicly embarrassed from some pureblood Slytherin asshole. "People who's both parents are magic."

Ranboo nods slowly as he process the information. "Are you a pureblood?"

He snorts, "I come from the Craft family." He waits for a response but then remembers that Ranboo will not know the big names.

Ranboo smiles nervously, "Is that... a yes or no."

He blinks, "Right, that is a yes to be clear. I'm a pureblood but I'm not an asshole, I don't care if you're a muggle." He's really pushing it about not being an asshole because he definitely is. He's just not an asshole about what you are, he doesn't care if you're a muggle, halfblood, or pureblood. He likes to make fun of them equally.

Ranboo lets out a breath of relief before pausing and looking to him. A nervous smile on his face grows, "Would you mind maybe teaching me more about the..magic world?"

He really wanted to sleep on the ride here but he replies softly. "Alright, this is going to take a while-"

For the rest of the ride Tommy talked about the magical world and everything to know about it. He explained what Hogwarts was and what things to avoid and the houses he could get sorted into.

In the end, he ends up with the other boy following him around like a lost puppy.

"Kindness under all that, quite surprising I must say."

"I will drag you across the floor and then stomp you until you're nothing but dust, wrinkly bastard."

When Tommy was younger he used to sit by a river by their house. He stayed there instead of the empty manor. He liked exploring, doing anything aside from sitting down. Sitting down meant being bored, which then meant getting lost in thought.

Getting lost in thought was a big no, whenever he'd do that he would overthink and then he sad afterward.

So he would lay near the lake, or walk around the family property. Making up stuff in his mind. Like he was fighting a bad guy. Or he was on an adventure to find treasure that was hidden in their family plot.

It was a safe place. Somewhere he could pretend to not be what he was. He didn't have to be Tommy Craft, the son of Phil Craft where expectations weighed down on him. He doesn't have to be the perfect pureblood, one who stood in parties with a blank face and a smile that pleased everyone around him.

He didn't have to deal with any of that there. He could be his own person.

Though, a secret he had never told anyone before was that he once swam in that lake. He had jumped in and almost drowned. He remembers the feeling of choking on water and the way his eyes burned. He remembers the desperate moves he made to try and breathe. He remembers the empty feeling that settled in his chest as the currents pushed him down without mercy.

The only reason he lived was his magic that acted on instinct. It had threw him onto shore. To where he coughed up water, where his lungs burned. He remembers the burning feeling in his eyes. From the water or the tears, he could never say.

He never went near that river again.

After that he had to find new hobbies. To which he mostly spent playing with his magic, trying to learn spells, and trying to curse Wilbur in some way. He never managed to pull it off sadly.

Another thing he used to pass time was bothering the maids and butlers. I mean it was in their job descriptions to deal with him. He tried to make them do anything beside from stand silently. He wanted them to laugh at his joke, get annoyed, hell even get angry! Just something.

The maids and butlers despite being there for everything, was never there. They never did anything aside from their job, which honestly fair. But they were cold in a way. In a way where they'd leave the food lying out in an empty table, even when he'd invite them to eat with him.

Or leaving him to his own devices, only checking in when they'd feed him dinner. They didn't put food out for breakfast or lunch, he did it himself. Not that he was complaining, he liked it that way. Liked being independent in a way that wasn't sad.

Because truth be told he was independent in a lot of ways. For most of the year his family was gone. All off living their best life in fucking Hogwarts. So he never had anyone to go to with homework. So he worked hard enough that he'd never need help with homework.

Or where he learned how to deal with stuff on his own. Learned how to cook, how to do laundry, and how to get to school by himself since the bus didn't reach his house.

Which is sad considering he did have a family. They all were in Hogwarts. Despite this being a house for all of them. Hogwarts was a home to them, that was their home. With the way Wilbur would talk about it with a bright smile. Or Techno would admit that Hogwarts helped him a lot. Or how Phil would talk about how the place was all he had ever known.

He wanted Hogwarts to be his home. He practically begged Phil to take him once. Of course he was denied, he was too young to even think about going.

They were distant. Which they shouldn't be, cause they're family. Though they did visit during Christmas, that was only for a few weeks. However sometimes they didn't visit for Christmas, had 'more important' things to do at school. Which meant Phil was caught up on work, Techno was doing some sort of competition, and Wilbur was hanging with his friends.

When he was younger, a lot younger than he is now. He would sit by the front door, waiting for their familiar shapes to appear in the window. He longed to see them grinning and waving at him.

He'd sit by the door even when the heat wouldn't hit the front door, leaving him freezing. He'd sit there even when the humid air made his hair stick to his forehead. Even when he felt sick, he'd sit there for hours at a time. He'd wait until the sun would slowly begin to set.

One time a maid, who has been around since the beginning. Left a pillow and blanket for him, she handed it off with a sad smile.

And maybe that sad look on her face should've told him something. Maybe he should've known they weren't coming home with that look on her face.

But it didn't matter, he still sat by that front door, silence as his company.

"Patience is key they say, maybe not in your case it seems."

"Literally don't care, you're a fucking hat."

"Going to be totally honest."

Wilbur begins on a summer day. His hair is sticking to his face, sweat clinging to his forehead. They both sit on the porch steps, waiting for a special package Phil required for them to wait for. It was originally supposed to be only Wilbur staying out here, but Phil didn't trust him to not leave so he assigned Tommy to make sure the older boy waited.

Wilbur's hand swipes against his forehead, grimacing at the sweat collected on his hand. He shakes his head and mumbles quietly about something that Tommy can't hear. It was surprisingly humid and hot. The heat climbed higher than ever before this summer.

Tommy take a bite out of his popsicle, eyeing Wilbur from the corner of his eye. "What?"

The older boy blinks turning towards him. Tilting his head in confusion.

He rolls his eyes as he adds, "What, what are you going to be 'totally honest about.'"

Wilbur narrows his eyes thinking for a moment before he remembers. His eyes lights up as he speaks, "Right. So it came to me when I was cleaning my room and I just had to tell you-"

He interrupts with a bland face. "What came to you, prick."

Wilbur shakes his head in faux disappointment, "Don't interrupt older brother Tommy-"

He glares at the other man, debating whether or not to punch him. "Fuck you!"

"Such vulgar language, where did you learn this?"

He doesn't bother entertaining Wilbur. It seems as the other boy senses it because he continues on. "Anyway what I was saying before I was rudely interrupted." He pointedly looks at Tommy, who in return flips him off. "Is that you're such a Gryffindor."

Tommy pauses, confused. 'What the fuck are you on about?"

Wilbur places his hands behind him before leaning back slightly. Looking off the distance while he responds nonchalantly. "What I said, you're a Gryffindor Tommy." He pauses for a moment before adding on slowly. "It just came to me earlier that everything about you screams Gryffindor."

Tommy has never really thought about his Hogwarts house. Always was like he'd go with the flow. Didn't think too hard of what he could be. He usually focused on how to hide from the maids and butlers. Or how to sneak out of the house late at night so he could run through the field. It was always especially gorgeous at night.

So he responds calmly, "What makes you think that."

Wilbur looks away and towards him with a big smile. He leaned towards him. "Well you have one of the worst tempers I've ever seen, you don't think before you act, and honestly reckless to the point that it's just idiotic-"

"It sounds like you're just insulting me asshat!"

Wilbur's smile grows, "Oh really? Do you disagree?"

Tommy crosses his arms. Wilbur isn't wrong he definitely is some of those things. But he'd rather die than admit defeat.

"I'm taking your silence as a no."

Tommy doesn't respond. Comfortable silence remains instead. Both of them sit there, waiting for some stupid package. Even in silence the company is nice. Especially after not seeing Wilbur for so long, he didn't come home this winter.

"It's not bad to be a Gryffindor."

He doesn't know why Wilbur feels the need to add that. It's as if the older boy is worried that he'll start crying. He doesn't care if people think he's a Gryffindor. He could make any house seem cool.

He glances to Wilbur, "You seem to think otherwise."

The other boy lets out a huff, "When have I ever-"

"You think they're, and I quote. 'Moronic fools who can only do two things right which is Quidditch and sacrificing themself for no reason.'"

Wilbur puts a hand on his chest in offense. "I have never said that."

He raises an unamused brow.

Wilbur continues, head held up high. "In fact I think they're funny, brave in ways no other can be, and more than anything not afraid to speak their minds."

A smile grows on the other's face. His hand wraps around his shoulder and pulls him close, he struggles to push away as Wilbur sings into his ear. "And my little brother is a Gryffindor, so they can't be that bad."

Despite himself, a smile takes over his face.

He elbows the man in the side, Wilbur lets out a wheeze as he pulls away and lets out a loud laugh.

They end up staying there until the sun sets because Phil's stupid package never shows up.

"Hm, Gryffindor is a possibility. You certainly are those things."

"Can you hurry this the fuck you? Kinda want to eat-"

"I'm thinking, do not speak."

Tommy walks into the dining hall, eyes glancing around everywhere. Just taking in everything. He notes how everyone seems to be riled up. All the tables are full and they all look fun. Even Ravenclaw, despite them being incredibly boring.

Yes that's a direct insult to his brother.

Tommy has always been excited for the moment he'd be sorted. He loved belonging to something. He couldn't to wait the colors representing his house. He couldn't want to wear that red tie with pride.

He doesn't manage to find his brothers but he doesn't mind all too much. He stands in the alphabetic line. He's managed to be close to the front which he's glad about. Get this over with quicker, he'd hate to be in the end of the line.

Distantly he notices that they're starting.

Not too far ahead of him he can see Ranboo. Who is definitely sweating bullets. He's wiping the palms of his hands against his pants. And a nervous look on his face shows that the boy in very anxious for the sorting. He managed to explain what the sorting is to the boy.

He's not nervous in the slightest. Which isn't exactly surprising. He's got a pretty good idea of what he is. Especially since that's what people have been saying his entire life, not that he disagrees with them.

It was always. "You're a Gryffindor." "No way you're not Gryffindor." "Everything about you just screams, you know Gryffindor."

He's even been told that by random strangers is Diagon Alley.

They're not wrong. He's always been reckless, when he'd sneak out and to the town. Or when he was brave and stood up to everyone in their school if they made fun of Tubbo, no matter of who they were. He didn't care if they were apart of the most ancient blood line, mocking Tubbo was a criminal offense.

He shakes his head, lifting it slightly to watch the next sorting. He blinks when he realizes it's Ranboo. The boy nervously sits on the stool and slowly places the hat on his head, as if worried it'll bit him.

He doesn't blame the boy. It's a wrinkly old thing. Stomp the thing once and it'll crumple. He'll keep that in mind if it tries to bite him.

It doesn't take too long, but it isn't immediate. For around ten seconds the hat thinks before shouting into the great hall.

"Hufflepuff!"

Tommy isn't shocked. Just spending a train ride with the guy he had suspicions that he was Hufflepuff. Especially when the guy didn't rise to any of Tommy's taunts. He just smiled at him. With something in-between nervousness and kindness.

The next few turns go by fast and suddenly it's his turn on the hat.

Despite knowing what he'd be there is still a nervous twist in his stomach. His hands are a little shaky as he walks up to the stool. He can feel everyone's eyes on him. All watching his every move.

He lets out a shaky breath before sitting on the stool. He doesn't waste a second before shoving the hat on his head, a grimace on his face as if expecting it to bite his head off.

'Ah, another Craft. I was hoping that your brother was the last, it seems not.

With a scowl he thinks, 'Fuck off you major prick.

The hat sighs.

"But I think I've decided, you're-"

There is a second long pause before-

"Hufflepuff!"

Cheers from the Hufflepuff table scream loud in his ear. He can see Ranboo from the front of the table letting out a blinding smile and a loud cheer.

But Tommy's mouth hangs open in shock.

Because what the fuck?

Chapter Text

Tommy doesn't remember moving to the Hufflepuff table. However he remembers someone slowly pulling him away from the stool. And pushing him to the Hufflepuff table which he was greeted with smiles.

He debates flipping them off.

His mind has been blank aside from the small train of thought about flipping them off.

Hufflepuff.

The only word that repeats in his head.

Hufflepuff, fucking Hufflepuff.

That's what he is. He isn't no Gryffindor, nope. Sorry everybody, turns out he isn't a Gryffindor. Sorry for the disappointment. Turns out he's a bloody Hufflepuff.

I mean how?!

He can't be. There is no possibly way that, Tommy Craft, is a fucking Hufflepuff. He's nothing like them. He doesn't think there is a single shared quality with him and a Hufflepuff. Not one!

He's not friendly in any shape or form. He's an asshole in fact. He can easily admit that. He taunts people, mocks them, and laughs at them. It's something he has in common with Wilbur. Their infinity to laugh at other people. Even if Wilbur was more malicious.

And most importantly he's not weak. Distantly he knows that Hufflepuff isn't any weaker than the other houses but from a young age he learned that Hufflepuff was always the last choice. Something you didn't want. Hufflepuff wasn't inherently weak but they definitely aren't the strongest.

And he's not fucking weak. He's hasn't spent most of his life being independent and strong, just to be put in this stupid fucking house.

Clearly there's something wrong, he refuses to accept-

Somebody nudges him in the side. He glares and turns his head towards them.

Ranboo gestures towards the food. "Are you going to eat?"

He opens his mouth to respond but a voice interrupts across the table.

"Don't pay him any mind, he's moping."

He huffs, "I'm not fucking moping dickhead-"

Tubbo rolls his eyes and grabs another drumstick. Taking a bite out of it and speaking boredly, "We all know you're upset that you're Hufflepuff."

Ranboo interjects eyes flicking between them, "Is being a Hufflepuff bad?"

"No he's just being dramatic."

Says him. The asshole had gotten into Ravenclaw. Not that he was surprised. The boy had always been surprisingly analytic. Tubbo always had random facts and statistics on hand.

He pushes himself away from the table, leaning back slightly as he exclaims. "I'm not fucking weak though!"

The boy across from him raises an eyebrow, "You think Hufflepuffs are weak?"

He opens his mouth ready to respond with a 'fuck yes' before he stops himself. Truthfully he doesn't think that Hufflepuffs are weak. He just doesn't want to be one knowing what they stand for.

They stand for friendship, friendliness, and patience. They're pushovers, that's what everyone says behind closed doors. People talk and they all seem to agree that there was something fundamentally different between Hufflepuff and every other house. People have different opinions. Some say Hufflepuffs are too 'innocent' or naive. Others say that they're annoying for being so friendly. Select few say modest is as bad as conceited.

And Tommy isn't any of that. He's doesn't want to be labelled as naive just because he was placed into Hufflepuff. He went through shit and he knows that the magical world isn't as grand as it seems. He's not some fucking pushover, not after spending a part of his life growing a spine.

But he knows Hufflepuffs who were amazingly strong. They were modest as they were strong. He knows that they're out there. Hell he knows saying that the entire Hufflepuff house was weak then he'd be like everyone else. He'd be one of those assholes who say they should disband the Hufflepuff house.

He sighs as he perches his chin on his hand. "No they're not weak."

Tubbo nods, pleased. As if he knew that he would answer like that. An arm brushes against him, Ranboo leans closer to them. "What just happened?"

The older boy answers nonchalantly, "Don't worry about it."

Ranboo's lip twitches up before he nods with faux seriousness.

He takes a spoonful of mashed potatoes and pushes it into his mouth. He swallows slowly before putting his spoon down. He was distantly hoping to choke on it and die so he wouldn't have to deal with this.

"This fucking sucks."

Ranboo pats him on the back, trying his best to be comforting. "It could be worse man."

He absolutely fucking fails at being comforting.

He plays with his food, picking his spoon up and letting it fall into the mashed potatoes. "How? How can this possibly be any worse?"

There's silence. Ranboo laughs nervously. He lets out a heavy sigh, dropping the spoon a little higher and pushing it away. Flecks of mashed potatoes fly into the air, hitting both Ranboo at him.

Ranboo lets out a noise of disgust as he scrambles to get a napkin and wipe it off.

Tubbo pays no mind instead he tilts his head before answering. "You could've been put in Slytherin."

He snorts, "Slytherin would've been better."

"You would've been in the same house as Wilbur."

He shivers just thinking about it. The boy would be stuck in-between a clingy older brother and a mocking asshat. He'd be following him everywhere and proclaiming to everyone his brother. But he'd also make fun of him when he'd do stupid shit.

Tommy nods gravely. "You're right."

Ranboo hums, not all too concerned as he asks. "Is Wilbur a bad guy-"

"Eh more annoying than bad I think."

"Fuck yeah."

Tommy ignores Tubbo and continues with a smirk. "He's an ugly bastard with horrible fashion sense-"

"We all wear the same robes."

He glares at Tubbo, "You're messing up my speech about how Wilbur fucking sucks!"

"Yeah I've spent too long listening to that bloody speech." Tubbo shakes his head and answers Ranboo's original question. "Wilbur is Tommy's brother. He's in Slytherin and he's a pretentious prick."

Ranboo tilts his head, "Oh so you don't actually hate him."

Tommy opens his mouth to protest but Tubbo sends him a look. Warning him not to say anything. Ah, right. Probably best to not scare off the boy with the huge speech about how much he hates Wilbur.

He actually has a list in his baggage. Just so he could remind Wilbur every now and again. Make sure his ego wasn't getting to big, nobody would want that. He would be the savior of everyone in Hogwarts. Saving them from Wilbur's big ass ego. Distantly he thinks he should make a list for Techno too-

Tubbo grins, "He just likes tp pretend that he hates him."

He gasps in offense. "Fuck you, no I don't!"

Tubbo snickers, "He loves his brother-"

Tommy throws his plate at Tubbo.

Tommy stands behind Ranboo as they follow their prefect. Tubbo had left a little earlier to go back to his table. Leaving him with just Ranboo. To which he spent most of the time being horrified of the boy. If he would've heard this earlier today he'd outright laugh at the idea. But know he has more knowledge and he's fucking terrified.

I mean who the fuck carries around spaghetti in a bag. Ranboo had said his 'comfort spaghetti' and he as a normal person asked what that meant. He was expecting something a bit odd, but then Ranboo blew up his fucking expectations.

He's decided that this year he's going to do everything he can to make sure Ranboo doesn't get his hands on spaghetti. He shivers thinking of the monstrosities the boy would commit if he got his spaghetti in a bag.

He's saving mankind by committing to this he thinks with a shake of his head.

Slowly the houses split up. Each going their own way. Gryffindor and Ravenclaw split at the same time. They both ended heading up the stairs to get to their dormitories. They end up following Slytherin for while until they have to split and go down a different corridor.

It's all really confusing, he doesn't know if he'll even be able to remember the way to and back. He's going to end up looking like a moron for a few days until he gets the hang of it.

Shoes click as they walk across the stone corridor. His eyes close slowly as he walks. He's fucking tired, especially after everything today. He wants to go to bed and forget about everything that has happened today. He'll think about how mad it is that he's Hufflepuff tomorrow when he has the energy.

Tommy moves slower than the rest but he's still pretty close to them. He isn't focusing much but it's not hard to notice when he's being fucking grabbed. Something grabs the back of his arm. He thinks its Ranboo for a moment before he remembers the boy is in front of him.

He blinks, suddenly alarmed. He yanks his hand on instinct. They grab his arm more harshly this time, yanking him backwards. He almost yells but they cover his mouth before he can get the chance to. His voice is muffled when he tries to scream.

His eyes are wide. His hand reaches out to the group, as if hoping someone would notice. But no one even looks back.

He's pulled into the shadows without a single sound.

Ranboo slows to a stop. He looks behind, looking for the familiar blonde. His brows furrow when Tommy isn't behind him. He remembers that Tommy was walking behind him with the specific reason so he could 'attack at any moment.'

He should remember the blonde moving to the front. But then again his memory has always been debatable at best. Maybe the boy did move to the front and he just forgot? He was focusing on listening to their prefect's instruction and didn't pay much mind to Tommy.

He turns around and moves to take a step forward. He intends to go back and find the blonde. Tommy might have gotten lost or wandered away from the group. He rather find Tommy and then they're both lost together than Tommy being all alone in this castle.

"Hey!"

He pauses and turns towards one of his housemates. Who's looking at him with a confused look on her face. She asks, "What are you doing?"

He doesn't speak for a moment. Before he shakes his head as he responds, "Sorry I was thinking about finding my friend, think he got lost..."

She hums and then gestures to the group. "Well I don't remember anyone behind you." She notices how he isn't budging and she sighs. "Look he'll be fine if he's lost, teachers are everywhere tonight to help lost kids and catch the troublemakers."

Ranboo thinks about it for a moment. He supposes she's right. Tommy is more than capable to find his way to the dorms. If anything the boy would be insulted if he went looking for him.

He jogs to catch up to the group, making conversation with the girl from before. On their walk to the dorms he learns that she's a muggle too and was just introduced to the magical world. It comforts him knowing that he's not the only one in the unknown.

In the back of his mind he thinks about Tommy, still worried for the boy.

Tommy thrashes around in the grip. His heartbeat pounds in his ear so loud he's convinced the person holding him hears it as well. Their arms are wrapped around him with an iron grip. Like a snake he thinks with his teeth barred. Whoever they may be, they're not strong. He kicked them and they groaned loudly in pain. They stopped for a second before regaining themself.

Problem is that he's not exactly strong either. So they're at a bit on an impasse.

He narrows his eyes, he didn't want to have to do this but it must be done. It seems as though he needs to put his chompers to use.

He bits the hand covering his mouth. He manages to make them bleed. The bad part is he can taste the horrible iron taste on his tongue. He'd be more disturbed if he wasn't being actively kidnapped.

They let out a snarl. He tenses even more. He's ready to kick them in the nuts but they manage to speak before he could..

Their voice is breathless, "What the fuck Tommy?!"

He freezes, he knows that voice. He spins around and comes face to face with them. They're holding their hand with an annoyed look on their face. They shake their hand before glaring at him.

He shouts on instinct, "Wilbur-"

Wilbur puts a hand over his mouth again. It seems as though the man doesn't learn. He drags his tongue across the palm of the other's hand. Wilbur yanks his hand away again.

"You gremlin-"

He punches the man in the shoulder. Wilbur winces. "That's what you get for scaring me asshat!" He throws his hands up in the air, "Who bloody does that?! You bastard I'm going to kill you!"

Wilbur rolls his eyes, "I thought it would be funny, I wouldn't have if I knew you would act like that!"

His hand itches to strangle his older brother. "Well you fucking kidnapped me, how did you expect me to respond?!"

"Stop being dramatic, I did not kidnap you!"

"Yes you did and now I'm going to sue your ass."

Genuine anger thrums through his veins. It slowly begins to diminish, draining until it's nothing but a dull feeling to him. He wishes he could be more angry, yell more at Wilbur. Put him in his place. But he can never stay mad at Wilbur for too long. Though he'll be sure to give Wilbur a good yelling for a few days. Make sure the asshole gets payback.

But no way in hell was he going to give the man the relief of forgiveness immediately. He wants to watch him grovel for a day. "I'm going to kill you tomorrow man. But I need to catch up with my group."

Wilbur whines, "Tommy."

"What?! I'm not going to end up crawling to Phil for help!"

Wilbur relaxes and leans against the pillar they are hiding behind. "I'll help you get there Tommy, I know where it's at and the password."

His face scrunches up in confusion, "What? How the fuck would you know?"

Wilbur shrugs, ignoring him. Instead he probes. "So how are you liking Hogwarts?"

He sighs, "Wilbur I'm not doing this with you right now. Not after you genuinely fucking scared me man." As he said, the man loved pranks. Especially cruel ones.

A guilty look crosses Wilbur's face. He hesitates before whispering softly, "I'm sorry Tommy. I didn't know you would react like that- I just thought it was all fun in games."

This was more than he was expecting from the man, he'll be honest. For Wilbur to be so openly apologetic makes something in him melt. Wilbur usually only apologizes when he hasn't slept in days or has been gone for months. This was new and he appreciates it. And he does what he knows Wilbur appreciates most, ignorance.

He lets a smile cross his face before crossing his arms, "So why do you want to know how I'm doing at Hogwarts?"

Wilbur's eyes light up and he leans closer to him, "I just want to be a good older brother-"

"Come on Wilbur you're not fooling anyone, be honest."

Wilbur faltered for a split second. Before he covers it up with an easy smile. Though there is a slight vulnerability in his voice when he admits. "I just wanted to make sure you're alright."

He frowns and tilts his head. "What?" He asks genuinely, "Why would you think I'm not ok?"

Wilbur huffs, "Even from the Slytherin table I could see your mental breakdown."

He flips the man off, "I wasn't having a mental breakdown!" He pauses before adding quickly, "I was just in shock."

Wilbur waits for him to continue. Tommy hardly hesitates, "It's just I didn't think I'd be a Hufflepuff."

The other boy snorts, "Yeah that was surprising." Wilbur tilts his head and hums before adding, "Though I can kinda see it now."

He taunts, "You're just saying that now so you don't look stupid for saying I was a Gryffindor."

Wilbur rolls his eyes playfully. Though there is a sharper edge on his voice..

"The only reason I didn't see it sooner was because how well you hide it."

Tommy frowns, shifting on his feet. "What the fuck are you on about Will?"

Wilbur squints his eyes, "Whether intentional or not."

Tommy's face flushes. "Fuck off."

He truly is confused. But he's always kinda like that with Wilbur. The older boy was just confusing in general. With his actions and words. Because sometimes he'll say something completely genuine in a mocking way. Or he'll just say downright nonsense.

He yawns and his hand itches to rub his eyes. It's far too late to be navigating this with Wilbur right now.

Wilbur's face softens a tad, "When did you wake up?"

"At the ass crack of dawn. Had to find the train station from my hotel."

Wilbur puts a hand on his shoulder and rubs it slightly. Tommy relaxes even more. "We can talk tomorrow, you have classes in the morning." Wilbur shakes his head sadly, "Poor you, Herbology at seven in the morning."

"I like Herbology though-"

Wilbur walks out of the shadows with a smile on his face, "Well it's been lovely speaking with you Tommy. Don't let the bed bugs bite."

"Hey asshat you're supposed to show me to my fucking dorm- don't walk away!"

Wilbur enters the dorm silently. A small smile on his face. A wave of cold air hits his face. The Slytherin dorm rooms always ran cold for some reason. The fireplace despite being in their common room is always unused.

His eyes flicker throughout the room. Pleased when he notices that no one remains in the room. It makes this all the much easier. If there was someone else in here he would have to worry if they were going to use his absence against him. It sounds fucking stupid but it's a genuine concern for him because apparently everyone has it out for him.

One thing that the rest of the houses were always on the dot on is the fact that Slytherin's always having something stewing in their mind. Always a plan of some sort. Whether it being how to prank the new kids without them snitching or plotting somebody's downfall.

He moves towards his room, one thing he appreciated was that everyone had a separate room. While very small, at least it was better than sharing with people. He feels pity for anyone in Gryffindor having to deal with that.

A cough sounds next to him. He tenses slightly and turns towards the sound. He narrows his eyes at the darkness. Trying to figure out where the person would be at. His eyes focus slightly on a shadow.

It doesn't matter because they exit the shadow silently. Taking smooth steps until they were right in front of him.

He scoffs, "You just hang around shadows?" There's silence and he waits for a response. But the silence remains. So he continues, "Dream?"

The man is still wearing his robes despite it being around ten in the night. His blonde hair falls slightly over his eyes, but he can still feel the piercing gaze. Those green eyes that shine an unnatural color.

Dream speaks blankly, "I noticed you hadn't come back with the group."

As if it's that's any of Dream's fucking business. Like he said, can't have any private business in here.

The man pisses him off to no end. He smiles with too much teeth, "Were you worried?"

The man's eyes narrow slightly before they go back to normal. "Wanted to make sure you weren't terrorizing some of the first years."

He doesn't know how everyone came to view him as a child terrorizing type of person. I mean sure he was Slytherin but he wasn't an asshole - well actually he is. What he means to say is that he isn't a monster....probably, still undetermined.

Poorly hide disdain shows in his words. He doesn't care if the man notices, in fact he hopes he does. "Ah yes that's what Wilbur Craft is known for, terrorizing children."

Dream's lips twitch up as he retorts. "Well you sure as hell aren't known for anything good."

His mask threatens to crack. But he remains calm as he sneers, "I wasn't terrorizing children if that comforts you Dream." The man studies him. Nothing will show. "If that's all I'm going to bed now."

Wilbur steps forward and is instantly blocked by the other man. He should've known, Dream is a stubborn idiot. He doesn't stop until he gets what he wants. His hand itches to grab his wand, part of him screaming to just curse Dream. That wouldn't be smart though so he ignores the voice.

"Is there something else you want Dream or are you just going to continue to be a nosy bastard?"

Dream rolls his eyes, his annoyance finally showing. "I just want to know what you were doing."

He takes a step closer to the man. The tension in the air thickens as he demands sharply, "Why do I need to share my private business, with you of all people?"

Dream doesn't respond, merely stands his ground. He doesn't exactly know what his motives are. Dream wouldn't be doing this without reason. He has known for a long time to watch what he does in front of Dream. From the first moment they met, there had been something in the boy's eyes. His eyes were calculating and Wilbur himself at the time was dangerous.

He did shit that could get him expelled and Dream had known. So while Wilbur would never willingly be under Dream's thumb, the man did have leverage over him. He's been trying to find something to make them even but Dream can hide his emotions easily and is a very private person.

Wilbur purses his lips, deciding releasing information would be better than holding it. "I was visiting my brother, checking in with him."

Dream's brows furrow slightly. "Techno?"

In the back of his mind he wonders if he could just run to his dorm. Then avoid interacting with the man for the rest of his Hogwarts experience. He'd very much like to do that but Dream is definitely more fit than he is. The man is on the Slytherin Quidditch team for fucks sake. And Dream isn't letting this conversation go, not now.

He responds with his head held up high, "No my younger brother. He just got sorted today."

Dream tilts his head, "You have a younger brother? Who is he?" Curiosity seeps into his words. It makes Wilbur freeze for a split second before relaxing.

No fucking way is he responding to that. He doesn't want Dream anywhere near Tommy. That bastard would probably use Tommy as leverage against him. Him or Techno. And he knows its practically impossible to hide Tommy forever. Tommy is a Craft, a famous name around the wizarding world. But in no way is he going to make it easy for Dream to find Tommy.

He walks straight past Dream. He shoulders the man in the process. He calls out with a snarl, "Find out yourself."

Dream calls out harshly, "Wilbur!"

He turns around and holds a finger to his mouth in a shushing motion. He watches in delight as anger slowly appears on his face. He lets out a quiet laugh before turning around and towards his dorm.

When his door shuts he lets his magic run wild. The very dark room suddenly glows white. It sparks wildly all around him before striking his ink bowl. The ink explodes in the room. He can feel how his magic is begging to be let free, to curse that bastard Dream. His hands shake as the magic rushes under his skin, screaming at him.

He smirks and his hand sparks white for a moment.

Let the games begin Dream.

Chapter Text

Tommy frowns, fixing his bowtie.

The suit he's wearing is incredibly uncomfortable. But apparently wearing a t-shirt and cargo pants was 'unacceptable' according to his dad. His dad could be stupid sometimes, though he would never say it aloud.

A butler passes by him without looking, instead moving towards the couple next to him. Offering up his tray, the husband gracefully grabs a glass of wine off of it. He smiles politely.

Someone across the room waves politely at his dad. He lets out a little huff before moving towards the person across the room, with grace that Tommy couldn't even try to mimic.

He scowls and the woman looks down at him. A tiny smile appears on her face as she speaks softly.

"Tommy, are you alright?"

He shakes his head dramatically, "No this is boring."

She lets out a little giggle. "I suppose you're right." Her eyes drift back to his dad. She's looking at him with a fond look. It makes a smile appear on his face without even thinking about it. She lets out a soft sigh, "Though we can't not be here dear."

He doesn't understand why. And he has always made that clear. He doesn't understand why they have to be so polite to everyone. Why they can't even have fun in the sight of the others at parties. What's the point of not having fun at a party?!

Something must have shown on his face because she lets out a little laugh. She moves closer to him. Her dress drags on the floor. It was a truly beautiful dress. It was a dark purple off the shoulder satin dress. She has a simple diamond necklace hanging around her neck. A masquerade mask covers the upper half of her face, only showing her kind eyes.

The mask was dark purple with gems embedded in it. He doesn't know if they're real or fake, he's assuming real though. That's how his family works. They always loved showing off their jewels.

Even their humble mother wasn't immune to it.

He stands around half her height. So she leans down easily.

Kristin fixes his tie and smooths out his suit before straightening her posture. She remains crouched. She whispers so only they can hear. "How about you find your brothers and then we can leave?"

He tilts his head, "What about dad?"

She snickers, "He'll be fine on his own." She pauses and grins at him, "Unless you'd like to stay here with him."

He shakes his head instantly. No way was he going to sit in the corner for multiple hours.

She lets out a laugh and pushes him softly. "Go find your brothers."

He nods and takes a step forward. He feels a little queasy navigating this place without his mom or dad. He feels so small in a place with these many people. They all tower over him.

But he's determined. So he ventures into the crowd. Taking measured steps and doing exactly what his dad told him. Be confident, but not overly confident. Make your presence known but don't be the center of attention.

His eyes scan the crowd, searching for Wilbur and Techno. They had left earlier that evening. Sneaking off to do something that they didn't invite Tommy to, he thinks with a frown. His eyes try to find the familiar looking figures.

It's much harder to find people here, especially with the masquerade masks. They were stupid and he had to retie the knot holding the mask together every twenty minutes. He wishes they could for once wear casual clothes to these parties.

He stumbles as a dancing couple bumps into him. He realizes distantly that maybe he shouldn't have walked into the dancing crowd. They were doing some traditional waltz. They twirled around him, laughing and smiling softly with their significant other.

He turns around in a circle, his mind spinning. The movement of the people are making him sick. He can't even find the way out of the crowd. His breath catches in his throat when someone smacks into him. Knocking him into the floor.

He stares wide eyed at the hardwood floor. His hands scrape against it, it burns but he can't stop himself. His breath quickens and comes out in short puffs. Tears threaten to fall. He opens his mouth to speak, to catch the attention of anyone. But nothing comes out, it makes him panic even more. The words just won't come out, they stay stuck in his throat. His panic heightens with every couple that bumps into him.

He's really trying to put himself together frantically. As his father would put 'this isn't acceptable behavior for a setting as of this.' He really wishes his mom would have came with him. He just had to act all brave, he thinks with a trembling lip.

He stands up shakily. His hands are shaking. His eyes scan around him more closely. Trying to find an exit. He doesn't find one. Instead through the gap of two dancing couples his eyes come across something. It's only a second but it feels much longer when he stares through the gap. The music around him continues playing the classical music.

Someone leans against the wall. They look very relaxed for an event like this. He wishes he could feel the same. There is an air of confidence surrounding them. They're already staring back at him, he jolts in surprise. His mouth hangs open slightly at the sight of them.

Their eyes shine oddly, it's nothing natural he's sure. They wear a black suit, like most. His mask is black and it shows only his eyes and mouth. Everything else is covered.

They beckon him closer with a hand and a curved smile, Tommy doesn't notice that his feet are moving. Everything else drowns out. The noise and the people are nothing but something in the background. In the back of his mind he thinks about his brothers, wasn't he supposed to... find them? The thought is shoved out of his mind a second later. All he can focus on is the person in front of him.

They place a hand on his back. Letting out a breath of relief. They're whispering something into his ear, but he can't quite process it because his mind feels like mush. They then begin pushing him forward, a hand on his back. They look back into the crowd once before grinning wildly.

Everything is but a daze. He doesn't know where he's going and doesn't remember anything. One simple thing runs through his mind. And that is to follow.

Follow.

He blinks and suddenly whatever daze he's in is gone. Instead he's outside, on the balcony that overlooks the entire city. The city lights make the usual dull city shine. The person stands facing away from the city.

Something in the back of his mind screams, for him to run and hide. But his body doesn't respond instead it stays put. Staring up at the person.

Their hand grabs his arm with a force so strong he winces. Their hand is digging into his skin it'll most likely leave bruises.

Suddenly something sets into him. That he sound find Wilbur and Techno. Or mom and dad. He doesn't want to be here all alone with a stranger. He doesn't know why he even went here in the first place, he's smart he knows not to-

"Look into my eyes."

Their voice is oddly static, he doesn't hear any emotion in their voice.

He blinks and looks into their eyes like a trance.

He flinches back at the pure white glowing eyes staring back at him.

There's silence for a second. They both stare at each other. Tommy doesn't know why. They stare at him in expectation. Expectation of what? He doesn't know, he just merely stares into those eyes confidently.

The eyes finally show emotion. It shows slight confusion. Soon it erupts into anger, a scowl blooming on their face. They hiss at him, anger clear even through the static. "Do you not remember?"

He opens his mouth to speak. The words however refuse to come out. No matter how much he wills to speak the words into existence. It's like his mouth isn't following his brains orders. It makes him panic slightly.

They stare at him in amusement. Watching his every move critically. Still ever so nonchalant. It irritates him to no end. Who are they to act like that? He demands to know but once again his mouth doesn't respond.

Anger courses through him and it boils in him. He can feel it beneath his skin. Begging to be released. It wants to explode, to be let loose. It wants to consume everything, destroy this stupid fucking bastard!

Magic explodes underneath his skin. The wind blows against them. The air grows hotter, to an uncomfortable amount. Something dangerous entering the air, slowly filling the entire balcony.

Tommy screams in his mind, this time it comes out in a hoarse shout."WHO ARE YOU?!"

The wind pushes against the both of them. It blows his hair into his face, he doesn't bother brushing it away. Instead choosing to stare at them with eyes filled with pure fury. Traces of fear hide behind it.

They blink in surprise. As if not expecting him to speak. They watch him with a tilt in their head and a predatory look in their eyes. They crave something that he doesn't know. They let out an exasperated sigh before shrugging their shoulders.

They move their hand to the mask. They rest the hand there for a moment before removing it. There's a gem in the center of the mask. It glows a dangerous red color. They throw the mask behind them.

Time seems to stop for a moment and everything falls into place. The moon shines down on them and onto the gem. His magic curls around him protectively, protecting him from the beam that was the gem. The gem makes the surrounding area glow blood red. It sends shivers down his spine, and he takes a step back in fear.

His magic rushes forward at lightening speed. The sparks of red surround both of them. It sparkles like fireworks, making popping sounds. With a flick of his wrist all of it directs into the other person. His head feels lightheaded with the pure magic in the air. It makes him confident enough to take a step forward and snarl.

A glowing white face, completely unaffected stares at him with a smile with too much teeth.

In a split second black sparks hit the red ones. The force blows him back, they do not flinch. It sounds an explosion into the air, a storm brews in the air. The combined magic affecting the environment, no doubt. Tommy grins as his magic continues to pulse. It makes him feel alive. His magic roars begging for more, for him to give more.

They cackle, excitement filling their eyes. A warning clear in their voice, "Careful with your magic young one, you may be powerful but you do not compare to me."They glance behind them, the gem's glow has slowly drained from the sky. They frown but they don't look all too upset. They turn back around with a narrowed look in their eyes, "Seems as though our time has come to an end."

They croon and lean forward, black sparks of their magic contrasting the glowing white face. "Tommy, wake up."

He wakes up with a gasp. Sweat clings to his forehead and his heartbeat races. His magic is restless under his skin from the nightmare. It pushes against his skin uncomfortably. He lets out a gasp as the magic burns.

His hands shake as he struggles to control his magic. He wants to let it all go, the magic agrees. It sings to him to just let everything go. But Tommy refuses with a loud cry.

A glance down to his hands show something glowing beneath his skin. It's glowing a dark red, it looks like lightning scars. Spreading everywhere under his skin. He swallows a lump in his throat.

His magic has always been somewhat uncontrollable. Though never to this extent. When he was younger he'd have a tantrum and all the lights in the mansion would blow up. After that Phil had practically forced him into having some sort of lessons to control his magic. They found that his magic was dangerous and unpredictable. It was powerful, extremely so. But that came with the consequence of his magic consuming him whole.

He lets out a deep exhale, closing his eyes. His face ticks up as his magic continues to try and burst out. He counts in his head. One to ten, and repeats. He repeats until he can feel his magic ebb out.

It doesn't go away completely, it never does. He can still feel it buzzing underneath his skin. But it's much more manageable now, he doesn't have to worry about fucking exploding.

He runs a hand through his hair. Grimacing at the sweat that's dampened his hair. He knows for a fact he won't be able to go back to sleep after that. Definitely not willingly at least-

He pauses, sensing magic in the air. Magic that isn't his. He doesn't know how he didn't notice it earlier. It's practically suffocating. The magic floods his entire room. He slides of his bed slowly and cautiously.

His hand scrambles to grab his wand on his bedside table. He holds it up threateningly in the air, wondering who the fuck has snuck into his room this late at night. Wilbur? Possibly - he'd kill Wilbur if this turned out to be a prank.

In the complete darkness something makes a popping noise. He flinches and turns towards there. Taking slow but long steps, his wand pointed forward

He pauses when he comes face to face with a mirror. It was something left in his room. He didn't really want it but didn't want to put a hassle to get it out. So he left it in the far corner of his room.

Dimly he can see himself in the mirror. His eyes are sunken, blood is dripping slowly from his nose. He put his hand to cover it. Something underneath his skin still shines. It's barely noticeable now, it could be passed off as a scratch. He shakes his head and lets out a choked out breath as the magic pulses.

His eyes flicker up. Watching as something behind him makes the mirror distort. He frowns and before he can turn around he can see something circular glowing white behind him.

His breath catches in his throat and he doesn't know if he's losing it.

Something giggles into the silent room, it whispers into his ear, cold air brushing against the side of his face. "Tommy."

Tommy doesn't hesitate to fucking book it out of the room.

Tommy surprisingly enough wakes up far earlier than he thought. He wakes three hours before his class even begins. It's so early that the Hufflepuff Common room is still silent. Only a single lamp remains on, but that's been on all night long.

He leaves after he collects everything he needs from his classes today. He tries to avoid going back into his room, fear still lingering. But he did go in and he found no trace of anyone being there. Any magic he felt before was just gone, not a trace. He still feels cautious however so he quickly scampers out a few minutes later.

He's scared that he's losing it.

Tommy shakes his head, he made a promise not to think about it. He walks out of the Hufflepuff corridor with a tired sigh. It was almost completely dark, the sun had yet to rise. So he was stuck navigating the close to completely dark school.

He spends around thirty minutes stumbling around. Trying to find the right staircase that would lead him down to the great hall. He doesn't know if he's allowed to be leaving like he is right now but no has caught him yet.

His polished black shoes click against the floor. He takes perfectly measured steps even if no one is looking. It's something that he does instinctually after so many years of Phil drilling it into his head.

Tommy reaches the great hall and hesitates for a split second. A frown pulling at his lips as he slowly pushes the doors open. He half expects for it be completely empty but instead he's greeted with people.

Not much admittedly but still quite a few scattered around. Some of them are working on stuff despite classes not even starting. Others are just discussing with their friends silently. It's a greatly different image from yesterday. Where the hall was exploding with commotion.

His eyes settle on a specific person. At the Ravenclaw table sits a boy, head in his book. He's rubbing his temples and muttering about something. He wears the distinct blue tie and the blue badge standing proudly on his robe.

He grins and swiftly moves towards the table. He slides into the seat in front of them and the man glances up.

He lets out a sigh, "Tommy." His hair falls over his shoulders.

"Sound more excited to see me asshole."

The boy responds dryly, "Great, I keep forgetting. You're finally at Hogwarts, unfortunately." He slams his book shut, shaking his head sadly. "Can't even study now."

He rolls his eyes, "Classes haven't even started and you're studying?" He scrunches his nose, "This is nerdy, even for you Techno."

The pink haired boy doesn't so much as blink. "What are you doing here Tommy, it's seven thirty in the morning."

He shifts in his seat but responds easily, "Didn't sleep well." He adds quickly, "The beds here are absolute shit you know?"

Techno snorts. His eyes slowly drift towards Tommy's robes. Eyeing them for a moment before slowly looking back at him. Not even trying to be discreet in his staring, asshole.

He knows exactly what the man is looking at. The bright yellow and black tie hanging around his neck. And the stupid bloody badge on his robe. He would've taken it off earlier but it's quite cool and he knows he'll be freezing if he does.

Techno speaks hesitantly, "So...you got sorted into Hufflepuff."

Oh god, here it comes. He loves Techno's, they're brothers! But Techno's half baked attempts at trying to get serious always fails miserably.

"Yes I did. I'm fine though, I was just in shock yesterday."

The older boy raises an unimpressed eyebrow at him. He studies him, trying to see if he's lying. He bits his lip in consideration, "It's ok to not be okay with it."

He purses his lips for a moment. But then he jokes, "What does that even mean?"

Poorly hidden concern shines in his eyes, even though the pink hair. "I know you and everybody thought you'd be a Gryffindor. And now that you're not - it's a lot I can guess."

Tommy's legs underneath the table bounce. He tries to not and take this too seriously. If he does then he'll get emotional and no fucking way is he getting emotional in the middle of the great hall. No fucking way.

"And I know, you know, what people in pureblood society think of Hufflepuffs. You've heard all those cruel and mocking words at those parties." Techno says gently. His eyes soften at the sight of him. "And now that you're a Hufflepuff you're afraid of what they'll say about you, you're afraid that suddenly people will hate you or view you differently."

His bits his lip to stop it's trembling and his eyes burn trying to keep the tears from falling.

"Know that it's ok to be afraid, it's alright to hate being Hufflepuff. Just know that this doesn't define you or suddenly change who you are. You're still the brave, confident, and incredibly strong Tommy Craft."

Techno's smile is genuine and kind. It's private and only for him, "You'll always be."

George's chin is perched on his hand. He's half asleep, which doesn't surprise him. It's around eight in the morning and they've been here for the past twenty minutes, he has no clue why the boy is even awake. George is usually only up twenty minutes before class.

Sapnap sits next to George. Glaring at some book that was assigned for summer reading. He has about three hours to finish the entire book. He doesn't know if Sapnap will make it because it already looks like the boy is about to burn the book to ashes.

He sighs already wishing it was still summer. He loved coming home and being free from Hogwarts. His last year was incredibly stressful, and summer was a relief. He could finally sleep in and hang out with Sapnap without their conversations being interrupted by bells signaling they had to leave for classes.

But school has started again and he's back. He's already back to dealing with Wilbur's bullshit, on the very first night the boy had slipped away from group. He had only noticed because the usually snide comments aimed towards him were nowhere to be heard.

He knew that boy was up to no good. That much he knew. And he really didn't want to get points subtracted before classes even started. He practically had to corner the boy when he returned to the common room.

And he's still unsure if Wilbur was truly visiting his 'younger brother.' He didn't even know they had a younger brother. You'd think it would be brought up at least some point or another. Espically with how famous the Craft family is.

The doors to the hall are opened softly. His eyes look towards there on instinct.

It's a small Hufflepuff boy glancing around the hall. He hunches into himself slightly, he's nervous. Even if he hides it a second later. Must be a first year then. Distantly he remembers him from yesterday, he was the boy who had to be pulled to the Hufflepuff table.

He observes as the boy's gaze catches onto someone and grins. The boy practically sprints there with how fast he's walking. He's surprised how much energy the kid has at this time of morning. Even he was tired and he was a morning person. The boy slides into the seat next to -

He pauses. Eyes narrowing as he glances at the other. The familiar pink hair and blue badge brings his mind to one person.

"Techno?"

Sapnap looks up and his eyes flicker to where he's looking. Asking absentmindedly, "Who's he talking to?"

He watches as Techno lets out a soft smile at something the little Hufflepuff says. "I don't know."

The black haired boy squints at them before looking back at him. A suspicious look in his eyes. "They look friendly with each other."

His mind drifts back to Wilbur from the other night. Something about his younger brother and visiting him. He assumed it was a lie after mulling it over. But maybe Wilbur was telling the truth. That thought is jarring enough.

George responds half bored and half tired, "You mean Theseus?"

He snaps his head towards George. "What?"

Sapnap's nose scrunches, "Who names a kid Theseus?"

The man beside him lets out a sigh, he pushes up his glasses. "Don't say that in front of Professor Craft."

He ignores the conversation in front of him. Only half paying attention. Instead he focuses on the boy, Theseus. So Wilbur wasn't lying. Admittedly he wasn't expecting for their brother to be sorted into Hufflepuff of all houses. He was expecting Slytherin or Gryffindor. To think Wilbur's brother is a Hufflepuff is a fucking crazy thought, he can barely believe it himself.

He finally speaks up, interrupting their conversation that had devolved into arguing.

"How do you know-" He pauses frowning, the word odd around his tongue before he pushes it out, "Theseus?"

George's eyes narrow slightly, observing him. Not a second in and already sensing there was more to the question. Sometimes he forgets how observant George is. He shouldn't be, he's in Ravenclaw.

George drawls, "I grew up in pureblood society, of course I know Theseus." George shakes his head and begins straightening the wrinkles on his shirt. "I didn't really ever talk with him, I usually spoke with Wilbur at those events." Dream scowls slightly at the mention of Wilbur.

Sapnap snickered, "Possessive much?"

He grumbled, "I'm not possessive, I just hate Wilbur."

"I still don't understand why you hate Wilbur that much, he isn't that bad." George says with a touch of disappointment in his voice.

Dream snarls, his teeth showing. "He's the absolute worst."

George and Sapnap share a glance.

The Ravenclaw changes the conversation cautiously. "I was surprised when Theseus was sorted into Hufflepuff. That kid is the epitome of Gryffindor, bloody everyone thought that."

Sapnap glances at the kid, a touch of pity in his tone. "That must suck being sorted into Hufflepuff then."

George waves his hand, "I doubt his family cares. I'd only expect Theseus to be upset about it, kid's eyes practically shined when he was called a Gryffindor."

He thinks of what to do with the boy. Talk to him was a guareented, he wanted to get at least a conversation with the kid. Figure out if he was like his brothers, though he's unsure...the kid was sorted into Hufflepuff. Hufflepuff wasn't exactly the most renowned of houses.

George speaks suddenly and harshly, "Do not underestimate him Dream." He shifts his gaze to him. George looks at him with stern eyes. "He's a Craft, remember that well when you try and pick his brain."

Sapnap looks between them all, quiet on the topic. Though tension is racked through his body. Obviously not comfortable with the conversation. Sapnap had always been aware of his need for information and knowledge. Sometimes it lead to the point of being obsessive.

George is right, underestimating him would spell trouble. But in no way is he going to just leave the kid alone for the same reason. He needs to know what the kid was capable of. Was he someone he needed to worry about? Did he need to be dealt with? Did he need to keep a watchful eye on the kid? There were too many questions that needed answering.

But instead of voicing his thoughts he pouts, "Do you think I'm not strong enough to take on a measly child? I'm truly sad of how low you think of me."

George stares at him with cautious eyes, they even out slowly. George begins relaxing and responds blankly. "It's too early to be dealing with this. I'm going back to sleep."

He sighs he can't find himself surprised.

Sapnap does end up burning his book. He laughs manically while burning it. Then ten seconds after he goes into a full blown panic realizing what he's done. He rushes out of the great hall and to the library to get another copy of the book.

Wilbur was right.

He distantly thought when sitting in his first class. Herbology is boring. He had just gotten the agenda for this term and he's already bored. They're going to be doing lectures, only lectures. And no lectures about anything even slightly interesting until the second semester.

The first term is essentially the history of how Herbology came about, who invented the subject and the people best in the subject. To which he could care less about. He wants to learn about the plants best for healing. He was especially excited to learn which ones were dangerous.

He wanted to work in the greenhouse but apparently that wasn't until second year.

The teacher, he doesn't remember her name begins roll call. She forgot to do it in the beginning of class so now she's doing it halfway through her explanation of the agenda for the year. He feels slight pity for her. She's been a bit of a panic this entire class. Switching onto different topics, not really focusing.

"Ranboo Beloved?"

He glances to the person beside him. They smile nervously, "Here."

He hadn't known before walking into this class that Ranboo was in it. He only assumed Tubbo was in this class.

On the note of Ranboo, Tommy's been noticing the looks Ranboo has been giving him. They're filled with concern. And Tommy has no fucking clue why. He doesn't recall doing anything that would warrant such concern.

The teacher pauses at a certain name on her paper. She hesitates a split second before calling, "Theseus Craft?"

Whispers erupt around him. Could they be more obnoxious and the means a lot coming from him. He scowls, "Here."

She watches him and stares at his clothes. Truly rubbing salt in the wound, like fuck he knows it's shocking he's Hufflepuff. No need to bring attention to it! She begs shaking her head and continuing roll call. He ignores everything else after that. Feeling his mood drop slightly, he was really hoping this wasn't how his first day would go.

Ranboo whispers his name softly, "Tommy?"

He glances from the corner of his eye and nods. Ranboo hesitates, "Are you ok?"

He stares in confusion. Again why the hell is Ranboo so on edge with him. His last interaction with the boy was when they were walking to the dorms.

"Yes I'm fine, why are you asking?"

Ranboo leans closer to him and he barely hear him whisper. "You came back to the dorms at eleven and there was blood on your mouth."

Yikes, right that happened. The blood on his face was Wilbur's admittedly. He hadn't noticed until the morning to where he scrubbed it off in a panic. It does paint a pretty bad picture, him looking like he got beat up.

He wonders if he should explain it to Ranboo but he wonders if that will be even more concerning.

So decides screw it. He shrugs nonchalantly. "Oh yeah some fuck face kidnapped me and I bit them."

Ranboo stares at him with horror. There's silence for thirty seconds before Ranboo whispers yells, "Are you serious?! You have to tell somebody!"

He curls his lip up, it would be funny ratting out Wilbur. He shakes his head a second later. "Nah it's chill. They apologized after a bit."

The other boy is still in state of panic. "Are you joking - Tommy they tried to kidnap you."

"Yeah and they promised to sneak me out to Hogsmeade."

"What is a Hogs...meade?"

"Alcohol."

Ranboo runs a hand through his hair, stressed. He mutters to himself, "Oh god I can't do this, where is tubbo - actually where are the police is the real question! Magic police..?"

Seems the boy has already lost it.

The teacher catches their attention, she's staring at them with disappointment. But she looks away and addresses the entire class. "Alright why don't you introduce yourself for the final part of the class?"

Nobody moves. She frowns and gestures for them to get a move on. "Come on, get to it!"

Everybody begins moving after that. Tommy stands up, as does Ranboo. The boy is still muttering to himself. They lean against their table, more than happy to not move. He would rather be stuck with Ranboo then any other asshole in this class.

Somebody slides across the table. Sitting on the one they're facing. They grin largely and lean towards them. "What's going on big man?" They nod in the direction of Ranboo.

A smile stretches across his face, "Big T."

Ranboo lets out a breath of relief, "Tubbo thank god you're here."

Tubbo raises an eyebrow at the other boy. He then glances to him in suspicion, "What did Tommy do?"

"Why do you automatically assume that I did something-"

"He got kidnapped."

Silence. Pure silence from all three of them. Tubbo seems to be still digesting the statement. His brows are furrowed before it finally registers.

"I knew it, I fucking knew you did something!"

Tommy stares at Tubbo, displeased. "There he goes, thanks Ranboo. He'll be talking about this until bloody flying lessons." He ends with a shake of his head.

Ranboo has no clue what flying lessons is. But he's more focused on the fact about how nobody seems to be concerned that Tommy got kidnapped. He's really wondering what's wrong with these people. Tommy got himself kidnapped and everyone seems chill with it, is he supposed to be chill with this?! He opens his mouth to speak but someone beats him to it.

The smugness from before is replaced with panic. Tubbo is finally completely grasping the situation. He practically shouts, "You were kidnapped?!" His eyes frantically scan over the blonde. Tubbo's hand reaches out to Tommy's shoulder. "Are you alright, did you get hurt?"

"Yeah Wilbur-"

Tubbo lets out a loud groan before kicking Tommy in the leg. Said person clutches his knee and hisses.

All concern from before is gone. Ranboo is sill in a state of shock as he asks with poorly hidden confusion. "Did I miss something."

Tubbo clicks his tongue, "He's being dramatic again, Wilbur did not kidnap him."

Tommy watches as Ranboo splutter, "There was blood on his mouth!"

He nods in confirmation. "Yeah I bit him, I told you earlier Ranboo." Tommy's gaze remains on him before remarking, "You've got a pretty shitty memory."

Tubbo whispers to himself, "Literally a gremlin." Tommy glares. Tubbo doesn't care as he continues. "I know everyone jokes about it but you're truly a gremlin, I mean you bit him?!"

"In self defense!"

"You probably gave him a disease man!"

"Fuck you I'll kill you-"

"Oh please, I'd like to see you try!"

Ranboo is still very confused. He just kind of sits there watching the both of them. His expression changing a lot. He changes between confused, horrified, disgusted, and amused. He goes through all of that in around, twenty two minutes.

The bell rings and Ranboo gets out of there because what the hell is up with wizards.

Should've just stayed in America.

"So you guys like Minecraft?"

"What the hell is that?"

Techno really hates doing group assignments for this exact reason. He doesn't know if he'll make it through this class without losing it. To think that he'd be put with this exact group of people.

You have his potions teacher to thank for that.

Techno rubs his temples, "Are we going to get started on our actual group project?"

Punz stares blankly ahead, a deadpan look on his face. Sapnap is sitting beside him rambling about something called 'Minecraft,' yeah he's not sure either. Dream is glaring at his book, atleast he's even trying to work on the project.

Truly, how does his teacher even expect for him to work with this group of people.

Sapnap shrugs, "I say fuck it man."

"Another great take by Sapnap" Punz adds dryly.

"Shut up you stupid idiot."

Techno is already giving up on getting a good grade.

Dream groans and slams his head against the book. "Why are we starting the year out with making a Calming Drought and an Ageing Potion?"

Sapnap shakes his head, "That's why I say fuck it. We're screwed man, I suck at potions." Sapnap wraps an arm around the boy next to him, "So does Punz here."

Said boy scoffs and shoves off the arm, "I don't even suck at potions stop telling people that!"

The pink haired boy interrupts the conversation with a glare, "I say we start with the calming drought. Best to finish that first and then do ageing." Techno's eyes flickers between all of them. Dream looks miserable, still staring at his book. Sapnap is nodding his head in agreement which he supposes is good. And Punz is staring off to space trying to control his irritation, he doesn't seem to disagree.

Good enough for him, he lets out a grin. "Alright let's gather the ingredients."

Sapnap blinks, "Are we starting right now?"

"Don't tell me you want to work on this with each other after class..."

Sapnap leans forward wrapping his arm around both Dream and Punz. Dream is pulled in and isn't even trying to fight the grip. The latter is once again trying to shove off the man. He's failing miserably. Sapnap pulls both of them forward. "I wouldn't mind spending time with my buddies."

He raises an unamused eyebrow, "First of all I'm not your buddy. Second of all we're not going to be doing this after school unless nesscarry."

He stands up and stares at them for a second. Observing them. Punz is still suffering. Pushing off the hand every ten seconds. It seems to only fuel Sapnap further as he lets out a cackle when Punz yells. A moment later he pushes his seat out and stands up. He looks behind to the shelf with ingredients. An entire wall filled with shelfs, completely stuffed with ingredients needed for potions in the class.

His eyes scan the labels on each of them. Trying to find the specific ones he needs for the potion. His hand skims across them, the dust collecting on the bottles make him grimace.

"So are any of you volunteering to help the first years?" Sapnap asks in the background. His ear twitches as he listens in on the conversation. He doesn't pay too much attention however, using most of it to focus on gathering the right ingredients. Getting the wrong ones would spell disaster if they don't notice. And with this group of people, he's not sure if they even know what a calming drought does

He can practically hear Punz scowl. "Fuck no, why the hell would I do that?"

Techno's hand pauses on a specific label. He grabs it and reads the label over once again. His hand swipes across the label, removing all remaining dust. The 'lavender' label remains so he keeps it. He also grabs the peppermint that sits next to it. Now all he needs is a crocodile heart. Though he doesn't know if that'll be on this shelf.

He turns around and back to his desk. Placing the ingredients in the center of the table before sitting down. He finally tunes back into the conversation.

"-I'm not joking Punz. I am volunteering to help the first years with flying lessons." Dream explains with a sigh. The man's eyes drift to him for a split second, as if watching his reaction before looking away.

He narrows his eyes, odd. Very odd. First off who in the world would actually volunteer to help first years. He wouldn't, never in his life. Mainly that meant with dealing with Tommy and he was not going to do that with a ten feet pole. He already gave his comforting speech. That's as far as he can go for at least a month. He's leaving the rest to Wilbur and Phil.

But for Dream to be volunteering? That's unusual. He'd know since he has been in a rivalry with the man for the past four years. Ever since they were those baby first years. So he knows the boy and this isn't something he would do. Well, more like something he wouldn't go out of his way to do.

The man did stuff to benefit himself. And in no way would this be benefiting himself. This would be taking away study time, quidditch time, and hanging out with his best friends. He's known from long talks that those are some of the things Dream prioritized the most.

Dream changes the subject easily, "Where's the crocodile heart-"

He's not letting the man slip away that easily. Techno stares up at him and questions. "Why are you helping the first years?"

It's blunt and straight to the point. The direct confrontation doesn't allow the man to weasel his way out of this. But he doesn't allow for tension to grow. He flips through the pages of his book, only glancing up to Dream every few seconds waiting for a response.

Dream avoids the question, "What? You don't believe I want to help first years?"

Techno snorts in disbelief. "Nope. Don't believe you in the slightest." He grins lazily, "I mean who would want to basically babysit a class of first years?"

Sapnap lets out a giggle as he admitted. "He's not wrong, Dream. They're like-" Sapnap suddenly stops speaking. He stares at Dream for a few seconds before cringing away. So it seems that Sapnap is involved in whatever Dream is planning, he's not surprised. Sapnap is one of Dream's two closest friends.

Punz speaks up. He's staring at them boredly, "Shouldn't we be starting on our-"

The green eyed boy admits hesitantly. "Fine I was going there to look out for future potential for the quidditch team."

Techno can't tell if the boy is lying or not. That is something that Dream would do, he'll admit. Espically since Dream is climbing the ranks in his quidditch team. He's getting close to captain. Only reason he didn't get it was because a seventh year captain sounded better than a fourth year.

Sapnap blinks and hums. Responding genuinely. "That's not a bad idea. Maybe I'll do it too then!" Sapnap leans into Dream, "The Gryffindor team has been quite stale. It would be good to be on a lookout for potential members."

A smirk crosses the blonde's face. He mocks, "You can just say that your team is dog water."

Sapnap let's out an offended gasp. Sapnap instantly bares his teeth and defends, "They're not! We fucking beat your ass last year in the finals-"

"Did you?"

"Don't try and gaslight me!"

Techno glances to Punz who looks one second away from exploding. His eyes is twitching when their eyes meet. The arguments between the other two continue to grow louder.

It doesn't take long for Punz to shout, "Shut the fuck up!" The boy runs a hand through his hair, a slightly frantic look in his eyes as he demands. "Now can someone tell me how the fuck we get a crocodile heart?!"

Techno decides he likes Punz the best out of all of them.

Chapter Text

"Where's our teacher?"

Someone behind him asked. It's around five minutes since the class started and the teacher still isn't here. Everyone is starting to get ansty. Some students already discussing ditching.

Tommy was not fooled however. He knew exactly who the teacher of this class was. And he knew the tricks said teacher got up to. So he remains silent in his seat, staring ahead with deadpan eyes.

"You'd think the teacher would be here on time, especially for the first day."

The Slytherin beside him rolls their eyes at the comment that came from behind them. He couldn't find it in himself to disagree with the boy.

His eyes scan the room carefully. His eyes skimmed over the posters in the room. They were filled with simple tricks and lessons that Tommy didn't bother reading over too closely.

The class was set in quite a big room. There was around five rows of seats on each side of the room and a walkway splitting down the middle. Sitting around three students in each row. So every class was around thirty students.

His eyes finally landed to the front of the classroom. The chalkboard had nothing on it, but traces of the white chalk remained on the board. Which meant that the teacher definitely was here and was teaching in previous classes.

Maybe a lesson for starting the class?

There was a large wooden desk in front as well. Stacks of paper placed all around the table. He can see a quill lying innocently on a sheet of paper. He couldn't read the paper from where he was sitting in the front.

He sighed and leaned his head back slightly. Pausing midway when something caught his eye. He sat up carefully and leaned a tiny bit closer to observe it more closely.

A crow sat on top of a coat rack. It almost completely blended in to the coats if not for those beady eyes. The crow was staring down almost condescendingly at the students. As if expecting none of them to notice. The crow's gaze moves to him, he stares back. He arches an eyebrow.

The crow tips its head down at him.

Bloody hell, he knew that something was up.

Should've known the bastard was up to his old tricks.

He scoffed catching the attention of the person next to him. Who eyed him for a moment before following his gaze to the coat rack. His eyes widening before removing his gaze.

He decides to tune back into the conversations happening across the room. Most of them compiled of complaining about how long the teacher was taking. Others were threatening to leave if the teacher didn't show soon.

A select few remained silent, staring to the front of the classroom. Probably already catching onto the trick that was happening.

A chair scraped against the stone floor suddenly. A student behind him voiced loudly, "That's it I'm leaving! I have better things to do than wait for-"

The crow fluttered down from its coat rack. A few students let out squeaks just noticing the creature.

In the blink of an eye the crow turned into a man. The man wiped off the dust on his clothing and looked up with a sharp grin at all of them. Black feathers slowly fell around the man.

He barely resisted groaning at the dramatics.

The man moved forward, towards all of them. His eye catching the student that stood up. "I'm afraid you won't be leaving mate." He glanced around the class. "I'm sorry for the wait everybody, I was merely observing." Students began whispering in the room.

The man turned around pulled out his wand, swishing it slightly at the chalk board.

Every so slowly words started appearing. Leaving a name in neat cursive letters.

And it read, Professor Craft.

Professor Craft - Phil's grin stretched across his face. He turned around and spoke loudly, "Welcome to Transfiguration 101."

"And I knew that bastard was up to something!"

Tommy exclaimed as he wrapped his scarf around his neck. The scarf was in a bright yellow and black pattern that he despised immensely. And he'd rather die than admit how comfortable said scarf was.

Tubbo sighs, "I know. You've said it multiple times."

Ranboo interrupts, perplexed. "Who is the, the - you know in this situation."

He shook his head, refusing to answer. "Come on Ranboob, say it with your full chest."

The boy's eye twitched at the nickname but he didn't budge. "I'm not going to Tommy."

"And I'm not answering unless you say it!"

"I told you I'm not saying it!"

Tubbo rolled his eyes, "I can't believe I have another class with you morons." His face was buried in the scarf. But it did nothing to hide the boy's annoyance. "Tommy just say it."

He remained silent for ten seconds before Tubbo's glare became too harsh for him. "Fine!" He snatched his broom that was leaning against the wall. "It was Phil, that's the bastard in this situation."

Tubbo nods blankly. He doesn't seem surprised in the slightest at the answer, already used to it. The boy had been put through incredibly long rants about Phil. Most of them not positive.

Ranboo on the other hand was still adorning a baffled expression. He knows that both boys are certainly eccentric, put lightly. But he still is very clueless to a lot of stuff they ramble about. This isn't just aimed at Tommy, no this was aimed at Tubbo as well.

"Care to explain?" Ranboo raises an eyebrow, "Is it another student?"

Tommy lets out a loud laugh. Even Tubbo let's out a snicker before walking out towards the exit. Ranboo takes a few steps to catch up, he's assuming Tommy is doing the same. Since he can still hear the loud laughter right behind him. Soon Tommy is walking right beside him. His face lit with glee.

"God no. I can't ever imagine Phil as a student, he's so fucking old." Tommy answers with mischievous eyes.

Tubbo's lip twitches upward. But he answers Ranboo. "He's talking about Professor Craft."

Ranboo stares at Tommy with slightly incredulous eyes. "You're already insulting our teachers? We aren't even finished with our first day!" Though he doesn't seem too surprised.

They exit the room and enter the field. The grass has been freshly cut, he can smell the distinct scent in the air. Tommy scrunches his nose up, he always hated the smell of freshly cut grass. It was overwhelming and smelled like shit. He glances up and notes the colds covering the entire castle. Might rain.

Tommy hums, "Phil deserves it."

Ranboo sighs, not really wanting to know what that means but he asks anyway. "And why does he deserve it?"

The boy in front of them answers for him. "It's obligatory for Tommy to shit on him." The tallest boy let's out a small 'huh?' Tubbo continues, "Professor Craft is Tommy's father."

Ranboo's face seems to freeze. The boy certainly wasn't expecting that of all things. He was expecting that maybe the dude was a bit rude. Or he was just annoying. Not for him to be the blonde's father. To be fair, most people aren't really expecting for random kids to say that Professor Craft is their father.

So the boy looks at both of them suspiciously. As if wondering if they were pranking him. But he can't find anything so he concedes and replies drained. "I don't know why I was expecting anything different."

Tubbo nods in agreement, "Yeah that's on you boss man."

The boy in front of them slows to a stop. Tommy and Ranboo follow in suit. Thankfully the sun wasn't out, that would make things miserable. Most of the students are already there, holding their brooms. Some looking queasy and others looking excited.

Tommy's definitely on the more excited side. This was definitely the thing he was looking forward to most today. The day has building up to this. His class with Phil was a bit of a downer he'll admit.

Phil informs them not unkindly, "Now transfiguration is one of the most dangerous kinds of magic you'll encounter at this school."

The man's eyes scan the room. "And while it's dangerous it's also a nesscarry subject to learn. Don't want you all ending up as a shoe for the rest of your life." Some students shiver at the thought. He barely stops himself from rolling his eyes. He'd wish Phil would turn into a bloody shoe.

"Just know I have high expectations for all of you." The man's eyes linger on him for a second before looking away. He claps his hands, "So let's get started then and make this a great year!"

It wasn't ten minutes into the class and Phil was already placing expectations on him! This was part of the reason he was worried about attending Hogwarts. His own bloody family. And Phil is now bringing his worries to life.

He doesn't want to fail Transfiguration because Phil is such an asshat that he put too many expectations on him. He doesn't want to hear the reason he failed Transfiguration to be 'I thought better of you Tommy, this has been some disappointing results.'

Tubbo interrupts him from his thoughts. "You alright Tommy?"

He bits his lip to prevent himself from ranting about Phil again. Instead he thinks about flying lessons. Trying to bring his excitement back up. "Yeah just thinking about shit." He looks for the teacher before continuing, "Besides I'm excited about the flying lessons!"

Tubbo lets out a small smile, already sensing his excitement. "I don't know why, you've already been practicing flying for ages."

He crosses his arms. "Yeah but that's been limited since it isn't technically 'legal' to practice without someone licensed with their flying lessons watching you." He scrunches his nose in distaste, fuck flying laws man. It's not like Phil was ever home to teach him. And Kristen had always been traveling around the world. "But now I can do it for real now at Hogwarts!"

Tubbo assumes, "So I'm guessing you're going to try out for the quidditch team?"

A wild grin crosses the blonde's face. "Fuck yeah I am. There is no way that I'm not." Although it isn't technically allowed for first years to be on a quidditch team it doesn't mean the school follows the rule. They had accepted Techno into quidditch his first year without hesitation. Mostly because the Ravenclaw team was seriously lacking.

Ranboo squints his eyes, "Quidditch team?" The word is pronounced weirdly by the boy. But Tommy doesn't pay any mind.

Tommy stares for a second before grinning and begins rambling. "It's one of the most famous Wizarding sports. And Hogwarts has each other houses have a quidditch team." Tommy watches as Ranboo doesn't look any less confused. He adds with a tilt of his head, "It's like muggle football but with flying and more danger I suppose."

Ranboo asks instantly, "American or English?"

His face scrunches up slightly, "Of course English football. It's nothing like American Football."

Ranboo nods getting an idea. "I kind of get it."

Tubbo dryly interjects, "I think I should mention that it's nothing like English football-"

"Shut up bitch."

Said boy holds up his hands in defense.

Sometime in-between when they were talking the teacher for the class appeared. Beside her stands three people. They seem to be some of the older students. One of them wears Slytherin, another Gryffindor, and the last is Ravenclaw. He pauses- wait a fucking second.

He can recognize that deadpan face everywhere. That slightly condescending and observing stare. And even that fluffy brown hair and those wryly glasses. Oh prime, he can't believe it.

It's fucking George Found. Another prestigious pureblood kid. He's seen a lot of the boy growing up. Especially at those pureblood events which were just shitting on muggle parties in disguise of a 'sophisticated party.' He had been the first person in their family to speak to George. Mostly because he didn't care about the scathing glare George was sending him.

After their first conversation, which didn't go too well. (If George's horrified reaction was enough to go by.) Their second conversation went much better when George was prepared for the shitshow that was Tommy Craft. And after that they hit things off. Well, as well as you can hit things off when you only meet during pureblood parties and events. But it was nice being around George, because even if the boy was cold he wasn't one of those overwhelmingly condescending bastards. George was fun to be around, he played into pranks and was kind in quiet moments.

George had basically decided that out of all the pureblood kids, he was going to stick with the Crafts. Mostly to Wilbur and him. But he wasn't apposed to hanging around Techno. For a while it stirred up the pot in wizarding society. People whispering about the Craft and Found partnership that could be happening. The Founds, a very respectable family with a reputation of being cutthroat and cold to the touch. The Founds also had a strong influence on the Ministry, one of the strongest.

That combined with the Craft family, whose known for their powerful bloodline. Known for magic which throughout every generation has been and mostly likely always will be powerful. The Crafts didn't become well known for politics or bribing, no. They became well known and feared for their magic. Magic that created an abundance of new spells. Or magic that has had the most powerful wizards and witches in history. Well, that was scary to a lot of people. Scary to a lot of purebloods. Though that never really stopped Crafts and Founds from hanging with each other at parties. He's even seen Phil talking to George's father, just to scare some of the old bastards.

He shakes his head. The Slytherin's eyes fall instantly on him. He pauses for a moment, not hesitating to start staring right back at them. They look him up and down, assessing him. Before finally looking away and towards the Gryffindor. George is giving him a disapproving look.

Huh. He looks to Tubbo who also noticed the exchange. Tubbo stares at the students with narrowed eyes. But he doesn't say anything so Tommy looks back to the teacher.

The teacher smiles, though it turns more into a grin. "Welcome to flying lessons everybody. Today we're just going to get the basics down." She gestures to the people beside her. "These are students who are volunteering to help."

The Slytherin waves at them, he smiles at all of them. Tommy has known for Wilbur for ages and so that's how he knows that the man's smile is sharp and means something else is happening. His eyes are the slightest bit narrowed. Observing them. For what, he doesn't know.

The Gryffinor is grinning at all of them. He doesn't even try and hide how he's assessing them. He looks at every one of them, judging them.

So those two are here for the same reason.

George looks at the first years blankly. Though his gaze does catch onto his. The brown haired boy's face softens around the edges slightly. But if you didn't know him then you wouldn't be able to tell. But after he looks away he instantly regains the blankness. Once again showing he doesn't want to be here. So he must be here for his friends, the people beside him.

The teacher shouts dragging his attention away from them, "Alright! Let's get on it, don't want to waste anymore time."

Dream had recognized the kid at first glance.

The boy, Theseus he means was already staring back at him. The boy's eyes were suspicious looking at him. He saw the glance the boy gave his friend. And after that the other boy has been staring him down. As if thinking he was an enemy.

George noticed as well because he's been giving continual disapproving looks at him. Really, George should've known this was going to happen. I mean the boy had volunteered to watch over the both of them. Saying something along the lines, 'making sure you don't go too far' and Dream was insulted. I mean how low did George think of him?

He wasn't going to stab the child. But with the way George is looking it makes it seem like he's going to hex the child. And ok maybe that might because he did try to hex a Craft once before. (Fuck Wilbur he deserved it.)

But still, he wasn't going to do that to a child. A tiny little first year.

Mrs. Emren yelled out another instruction. "-now lift off the ground!"

He watches the students carefully. Some of them couldn't make it off the ground. Struggling and falling back on their feet. He notes, Mrs. Emren might need to focus on them.

Most of the students though got off the ground. The results after that varied however. Some only were able to float for a split second before falling back to the ground. Some stayed up for a decent amount of time before falling. He kept an eye on the Slytherin ones who kept their feet on the ground long enough.

One student caught his eye specifically.

Theseus.

He sighed, of course.

The boy has remained in the air the entire time. He didn't seem tired in the slightest. In fact he's doing it with ease, as if this is nothing. Instead of focusing he seems to be arguing with his Ravenclaw friend next to him. The other Hufflepuff beside Theseus has been in the air for the same amount of time, though he's definitely more shaky and nervous.

Sapnap hummed beside him, "He's good." Sapnap eyes them a bit more before adding, "Both of them are really good." Sapnap ends thoughtfully, "Even better than us as kids."

Dream nods in agreement. Though that might be heavily reliant on the fact that Theseus did grow up as a pureblood. Allowing him magic from birth, so he could've been practicing magic and flying much earlier than most.

He's not sure about the other Hufflepuff beside Tommy. He's doing about as well as he did as a first year. And he grew up a halfblood and magic wasn't as easily accessible since his parents didn't have a flying license. Mostly because his father was a muggle and his mother never liked a flying as transportation. Much preferred floo powder and apparation.

He blinks when said Hufflepuff falls off his broom and onto his back. Thankfully the boy wasn't too high up so there won't be any injuries.

Theseus cackles at the sight of the fallen Hufflepuff.

Dream narrows his eyes, tensing slightly. He has been long preparing for some sort of cruelness from the boy. His family definitely had the record for it, that's for certain. He was on the end of cruel laughter and mocking words once. He was already walking to get there and scold the boy, he's a few steps away when-

Theseus falls from his broom and lands on his back as well. His laughter distracting him. On things he notes is his broom didn't fall from lack of focus. More so from the fact he leaned back in heavy laughter that he slipped off the broom. The boy begins groaning in misery as well. The Ravenclaw who at some point began floating again laughs at him, teasing him for falling.

A tiny smile crosses his face, it reminds him of his friends when they were younger. George, while he was absolutely horrible with a broom still managed to have more grace than them. He would let out little giggles at their failings. Because honestly, Sapnap and him failed a lot their very first lesson. Sapnap had fallen flat on his fact his first try. And Dream was shot into the air because he couldn't control his broom..

He stands in front of them. A hand on his hip as he asks "Is everyone alright?." He scans all of them, "No injuries?"

The tiny Ravenclaw pauses. Eyeing him before relaxing and snorting, "No problems here. He's just an idiot." The boy jabs a finger to the blonde Hufflepuff.

Said Hufflepuff rubs the back of his neck. His ears red in embarrassment. "Fuck you! Ranboo distracted me."

The other Hufflepuff - Ranboo stands up. He rolls his eyes and gets on his broom again. Though there doesn't seem to be anything there aside from playfulness. "No Tubbo is right, you were being an idiot." Ranboo giggles as he adds, "I'm shocked I was able to distract The Great Tommy Craft."

Theseus gasps and swiftly gets on his broom. He floats in the air and is brave enough to remove a hand from his broom and put it against his chest. "Ranboo! How could you be on his side-"

Ranboo interrupts dryly, "You laughed at me when I fell."

Theseus is at a loss of words for a moment before admitting. "Fine alright I might have deserved it. But you laughed at me too!"

"Karma sucks."

Tubbo, the Ravenclaw is staring at his friends. Fondness poorly hidden.

He interrupts their arguments. Eyes amused as he speaks, "You boys should focus a bit more. " A bit of a scolding but they need it. Not focusing, not matter how good they are isn't good. He adds, "The difficult parts are about to come up."

Theseus's nods so seriously that Dream can't tell if he's joking or not. Ranboo blinks before nodding as well. And Tubbo's face remains neutral.

The blonde's broom moves to the side and Theseus nudges Ranboo with his shoulder. Said boy glares as his broom drifts for a second before nudging the blonde back.

"You heard him Ranboo! We gotta focus if we want to get on that quidditch team."

The other boy looks mainly clueless. But he isn't disagreeing with Tommy.

"I never said I was trying out for- fine alright I guess so."

Dream's gaze drifts to the Ravenclaw.

As if expecting it the boy answers swiftly, "I don't want to do quidditch. Just want these flying lessons over with."

Mrs. Emren voice booms, "Now this is only for the students who are confident enough. You can try and begin flying around, stay at ground level though!" She glares at all of them at the last part.

She adds on, "Dream, Sapnap, and Ravenclaw boy." They all look towards her.

She continues with narrowed eyes, "Get in the air boys. Watch them carefully, don't want to have to deal with a parent complaining that their kid broke a bone."

He's not too sure how happy the parents would be if they knew that their kids would be watched over by fourth year students. One of which who couldn't give a shit.And another who was a pyromanic.

He nods and jogs to where he was standing before. Grabbing his broom easily recognizable by a small green ribbon wrapped around his handle. He gets on his broom and kicks off the ground. He flies quickly until he slows and down and floats.

He's close enough that he can dive down with his broom and can grab the first years if they fell.

He glances beside him where George and Sapnap slowly come into view. While George had ditched flying lessons after first year he was still a good flier. Especially since Sapnap and him forced George to play quidditch with them. Sapnap was obviously more confident since he has been flying since first year and is now a beater.

George's eye twitches, "Ravenclaw boy.

Sapnap cackles. Dream smiles as speaks, "Oh come on George. It's just because she doesn't know you."

George rolls his eyes, "I don't know why I even agreed to come with you guys."

"Actually you did it to make sure Dream didn't murder a child." Sapnap corrects barely hiding a grin.

George doesn't respond, he merely turns his eyes back towards the children. Only a select few of them have actually began flying. A handful of them tried but many of them didn't succeed.

Most of them fell face first in the dirt, Dream had snorted when one particularly snotty kid had fell instantly and ate dirt. Sapnap had no such qualms because he let out a echoing laughter that ended up with him getting glared at by said child. The teacher had merely casted an odd look at Sapnap, somewhere between disapproving and encouraging.

George didn't say anything. Though his face twitched up slightly when the kid fell on his face. He's just surprised that George is keeping it in so well. If they were in private he's sure the boy would be dying with laughter.

Of course other students faired better.

The Tubbo boy from earlier was doing alright. Though he was struggling. He was going at a snail's place but Dream had to give credit where it's due. The boy hasn't fallen off in an embarrassing way yet.

He falls behind his two friends. Theseus and Ranboo.

Ranboo is going quickly enough that it's shocking. Though his broom is tipping every few minutes which forces the boy to stop in his tracks. But still, he also hasn't fallen on his butt.

And one student in particular is excelling.

He raises an impressed eyebrow watching Theseus. He shows skill that a first year should have.

Sapnap whistles lowly. "He's pretty fucking good, Puffy is going to snatch up that kid before class is over."

The boy is going fast. Fast enough that the wind is blowing against him, his robes floating from the wind pushing it. The boy's hair is covering his face which makes Dream slightly worried that the boy will run into the castle walls but he doesn't.

Instead he pulls his broom upward, making him instantly shoot upward and into the sky. There's a large grin on his face as he continues to go higher and higher.

Much higher than he's supposed to.

He takes that as his chance. He flies towards the boy swiftly. Smiling slightly at the familiar way the wind pushes against him. While the boy is definitely gifted with flying he's still an inexperienced first year. He could lose his grip and fall.

And a fall from that height could prove dangerous, broken bones at the least.

He reaches the boy in record speed. Theseus pauses in his flight and looks to him with watering eyes, from the wind blowing straight into his eyes.

Dream realizes in that moment that he is incredibly unprepared. He knew he was supposed to talk to the boy. But the details of what he was going to say he never actually established. When Sapnap had asked he said, 'I'll come up with something' which evidently didn't happen.

The boy cocks his head to the side, "Can I help you?"

"You've heard the Professor. You're supposed to stay at ground level." Dream answered calmly. He floats down slightly, calling out. "Unless you want to be suspended for a week."

He can hear the boy float down quickly, obviously convinced to stop at the suspension remark. He watches Theseus from the corner of his eye. The boy is displeased, that much he can tell. Though he doesn't seem to complaining about it.

He offers a bit of comfort. "You're very good, you should try out for the Hufflepuff team. There's definitely a lot of potential there if you can polish yourself up."

Theseus smiles widely at the praise. Asking giddily, "Really?"

Dream nods watching the boy. The boy is a complete opposite of Wilbur, even with a few interactions it's clear. It's refreshing after dealing with two especially cold Crafts. Shockingly enough Wilbur isn't the colder out of the two, he at least puts up a friendly front. Techno on the other hand is just disinterested and blunt with it.

They're flying downward at an incredibly slow rate. He sets the pace so he can keep the conversation going before it's interrupted by his friends. The Ravenclaw - Tubbo is glaring at him from a distance for some reason. Though he's being slowed down by Sapnap who's hounding Ranboo with questions. Tubbo is trying to fight off the Gryffindor's question for the boy. He barely stops himself from snorting.

That's Sapnap for you. Obviously he means no ill with the questions. But he's definitely passionate to the point where it's overwhelming. If it wasn't for Ranboo being in a different house Sapnap would've already been mentoring the boy. Though he can see how Sapnap is glancing at Tommy, so maybe he's trying to snatch both of them up. Though he's holding off because of Dream's glare, he doesn't know how long that will last.

Theseus coughs, "So who are you...?"

He smiles, "I'm Dream fourth year chaser for the Slytherin Quidditch team." He turns the question to the boy, even though he knows the answer. "And you are?"

Theseus puffs his chest, "Tommy Craft, first year! I'm trying out for the uh - um Hufflepuff quidditch team." Dream notes how the boy had struggled before saying the word 'Hufflepuff' so it seems George was right. Theseus - Tommy was in a bit of denial about not being Gryffindor.

He ignores the mistake as he asks, "Do you know what position you'll be trying out for?"

The boy thinks about it for a moment before answering. "Either chaser or beater, I don't mind either of them." Dream agrees, it makes a lot of sense. He thinks about seeker for a moment with the boy, he's definitely swift and agile. He could make a very good seeker.

But chaser does seem to fit better. He smiles, "Well I'm make sure to recommend you to Puffy." He's quite close with the Hufflepuff captain. She's a beater for her team, and she had a mean swing. He shivered slightly thinking about it.

Joy erupts over the boy's face. Though it crumples a second later, replaced with a suspicious look.

He sighs, it seems that paranoia runs in the entire family.

"Why would you recommend me?"

He answers nonchalantly, easing Tommy's worries would be best. "Well first off I think you'd make a great chaser." Surprise is poorly hidden in his face. Seriously, why was he so surprised? He has been singing nothing but praise to him. "And second of all I owe Puffy and she's been looking for some new members lately." A lot of the main player's were seventh years last year and now they've left, in short she's in desperate need for new members.

Tommy blinks, processing it before he seems to accept his answer. He relaxes slightly, "Sorry just always gotta be a bit suspicious with Slytherins. Always got some plan brewing in their head."

He lip twitches slightly. That's certainly some accusation. Though he can't really say the boy's wrong... but to put it so bluntly, espically when his brother-

"Your brother is a Slytherin."

Tommy sputtered for a moment. He hesitates for a split second. "You know Wilbur?" Before he shakes his head and retorts, "Yeah and Wilbur always has some sort of plan in his head."

He's not wrong. He tries to respond with indifference though anger slips through. "Yeah I know Wilbur, he's in the same year as me." Dream admits defeat for now, "And you're right I suppose."

Tommy smirks at him, though it dims slightly. The boy looks into his eyes for a second. Before looking away and changing the topic. "Who's Puffy?" It seems he already knows the answer to the question. So Tommy must've sensed his anger then. Observant. That's a good thing to note, he'd have to be more careful than normal.

"She's the team captain for Hufflepuff." His broom drifts closer to Tommy as he whispers. "She's a beater and one of the best out there. Be careful though, she's very stern and doesn't stand for funny business." That's a complete and utter lie. Puffy has got to be one of the nicest ladies out there. She's apparently everyone's mother figure in this damn school.

Tommy seems slightly horrified before it's overrid with mischief. "That's fucking awesome. Does that mean she beat the shit out of our opponents?" Which alright, he wasn't expecting that.

He lets out a tiny laugh. "Sure you can say that." He fails to add that in no way is Puffy going to beat someone up. Unless they were being an overwhelming asshole. But even then to push her far enough to beat you up, well then you most likely deserve it at that point.

Tommy lands both feet on the ground, wobbling slightly in the process. But he sticks the landing. Dream follows in suit but more gracefully. He steps away from his broom. Holding his hand up, the broom flies upward into his palm without him saying anything. It took him some time to do it wordlessly, but it was worth it for how cool he looks.

Tommy's eyes positively glowed watching him. Dream lets out another laugh, "You did fucking amazing Tommy." He takes a step back and adds, "Hopefully I'll see you on the field."

He walks back towards the teacher. Class was going to end in a few minutes.

Admittedly he hadn't gotten much from Tommy. He had pretty much fumbled his way through that. Sometimes he envies Wilbur and how easily he's able to manage it. He shakes his head. But he did put them on good terms, which his good he supposes. Would make things much more difficult if they were on bad terms.

He's fairly sure that the boy is alright. He doesn't seem to be a problem. While the boy is a bit cocky, there is reason to it. He's damn good at flying, probably already knows the basics.

But thankfully there is no overwhelming cruelty. And definitely no crazed look in his eyes. Though the boy had looked immensely tired, his eyes lowered a few times during their coverastion. It was hard to find when the kid was practically beaming the entire time. But at the more silent parts it showed.

He can hear a yell, "It's not Theseus asshat! It's Tommy, how many times have I told you, and shut up your last name is literally 'Found'."

George taunts the boy playfully, "Oh so I see you still have your god awful temper-"

He has to dodge when Tommy lunges at him. Screeching, "I'm going to kill you!"

George lets out a surprised laugh. He dances around the boy with ease. "Oh really?"

Tommy doesn't seem annoyed by George. In fact there is an excited look in his eyes at seeing the other boy. But it's mostly hidden by Tommy trying to strangle George.

Dream looks back at them more closely. He watches as Tommy argues with George. Said Ravenclaw isn't even trying to hide his smile that's definitely accompanied by teasing remarks. Though there's a look in his eyes. It hard to place for a second. He doesn't know it's-

Fondness, that's what it is he decides. There's fondness in George's eyes.

Ah.

That's why George was insistent that he came along.

He doesn't know if George was lying earlier, if he did actually talk with the boy in those pureblood events. It's a possibility. George has always had a problem with lying when it wasn't needed. He mostly lied about what he was doing or what he was thinking about. Nothing too harmless. But it was always a bit annoying when Sapnap and him were trying to find out what George was doing and he'd answer, 'I was studying' when he clearly wasn't.

So George is fond of Tommy. And that's why George was much more harsh with him. Usually with Wilbur, while disappointed at him, he was alright with how he accused the boy at every turn.

George's gaze snapped to him, sensing someone looking at him. He stares for a second before shaking his head. Walking towards him with a shrug at the questioning look he received.

The brown haired boy stands next to him.

He chirped, "Mr. Found being fond, unbelievable. Ladies and gents this is truly a discovery."

George sighs exasperated. But there is a softer look in his eyes when he snarks. "I'm fond with you idiots all the time, this is nothing new."

Dream hides his smile, he knows.

The Ravenclaw straightens his shirt which had gotten ruffled when he was flying. Barely looking up to ask, "And have you found your answers?"

He shrugs, "I have more. But I'm happy with I got."

George drawls, "And the results?"

He smiles as he shakes his head softly. "He seems like a good kid, a bit cocky but he's good."

George doesn't seem too surprised at his response.

Sapanp pops out behind them. Blurting out, "Do you guys know how I would switch someone's houses?"

The brown haired boy's eye twitches. "Sapnap-" He lets out a loud exhale and turns to berate the boy. "I told you that you can't change Ranboo's house no matter how much you want to mentor him."

Sapnap doesn't look deterred in the slightest. Grinning as he proclaims, "He'd be much better in Gryffindor."

Dream's mind drifts to Tommy.

An interesting kid, and he still has some answers that he needs answering.

He just needs another excuse to talk to the boy.

"How's Tommy doing?"

Wilbur barely resists barring his teeth. He answers scathingly, "Shouldn't you know?" The man stares at him. He continues, "You did just have a class with him."

He pauses for a second. Before he adds slowly and harshly, "Unless you've forgotten?"

A look of anger passes Phil's face. His hand grips his wooden desk tightly.

Techno's eyes flicker between the both of them. "No need for hostility guys."

Wilbur rolls his eyes and lies through his teeth. "I wasn't being hostile."

Techno raises an unimpressed eyebrow. Phil stares at him incredulously.

Phil shakes his head and stares him down with stern eyes. "Listen, I'm only wondering how Tommy is doing."

He grits his teeth, "And I'm telling you to find out yourself."

Seriously how hard is it to go up to a ten year old kid and ask them how they're doing. Hell his teachers ask him the same question everyday. He's wondering if Phil is afraid of their younger brother because of how much he avoids said boy.

He's even talked to Wilbur more than their youngest.

That's says a lot because Wilbur spends most of his time actively avoiding Phil.

Techno, as always the neutral party answers Phil's questions. "He's doing as well as you can imagine."

Phil bits his cheek as he guesses, "So he's not doing alright?"

"Yeah no shit."

Phil levels him with a disapproving look.

He barely resists flipping him off.

Techno doesn't care about their silent arguments as he continues. "And he's not sleeping well." Techno pauses for a breath and then continues. "Might have something to do with his magic, anyone in a ten mile radius could feel his magic. It was restless."

Wilbur blinks, he hadn't known that. Admittedly he had only talked to Tommy last night.

He asks, "How do you know?"

"Well for one he came to the great hall at seven in the morning," Techno begins with poorly hide concern in his voice. He shifts on his feet, "And there are dark circles under his eyes, also his magic made a paper drift off the table."

Phil instantly questions, "Has he said that his magic is why he hasn't been sleeping?"

Wilbur leans against the desks behind him. Thinking about it for a moment. Usually any question regrading something Tommy didn't want anybody to know about he would deflect. Admittedly he's damn good at it.

Once he had almost completely forgotten Tommy broken a bone when they younger because the boy had rambled on with a story. Wilbur thinks about it with shivers. A story involving a maid, accidental magic, and a talking worm.

Techno shakes his head, "Mostly deflected."

As he said. Deflection, the art Tommy Craft has chosen.

Wilbur hums, "Which means he doesn't want anybody to know about it. Might be his magic then."

"And what if he just stayed up all night talking with his new Hufflepuff friend?" Techno questioned skeptically.

"You truly think Tommy would do that, on his first day?" Wilbur counters. Seriously it seems as though they've already found the answer. But he doesn't complain, it's better if they get all their bases down.

Phil is hesitant in the entire conversation. Evidently because he doesn't know Tommy well enough. Something he thinks about with dripping anger and glee. He hates the man can't bother and learn about their youngest brother. And then again he doesn't want Phil to know about Tommy. He doesn't deserve to learn.

Techno shrugs, "He's always been a bit of a rule breaker."

He's not wrong. He retorts, "You think Tommy would willingly stay up with this Hufflepuff kid? Knowing he'd be having his first flying lessons and classes tomorrow?"

Techno thinks for a moment, trying to bring up other reasons Tommy could possibly stay up for before nodding. "You're right, he wouldn't."

Wilbur sniffs, "Of course I'm right."

Phil finally reenters the conversation. "And who wants to be the one to talk to Tommy about it?"

There's silence. It's so silent that Wilbur hears the fucking floorboard creak as he shifts on his feet.

Techno gives in to the silence first, "I already gave my comforting spiel." Wilbur stares at Techno in shock. The boy continues, "It was amazing, it puts all of Wilbur's to shame."

His face twitches, "Oh really?" There is no bloody way that Techno made a comforting spiel, firstly. And nothing compares to Wilbur's speeches and spiels, to be absolutely clear. There was just no chance. Though he'll let the man think he has this.

His eyes slowly move to the other person in the room. He smiles sharply, "I think the father here." He pointedly looks at Phil, said man returns with a blank look. "Should be the one to ask why Tommy hasn't been sleeping. Seems more like a parental thing, truthfully."

Phil crosses his arms, "Wilbur I've told you to stop-"

He sneers, "And I'm being honest! You should be the one to talk to him, you're his fucking father!"

Techno who has already been through this argument, in different variations, barely stops himself from slamming his head against the wall. Could there be one conversation that doesn't mention fatherly obligation? Please, he wants one. Only one.

He waits for Phil's response which he knows the inevitable answer. They all do.

"Wilbur it's one of the busiest times of the year! I'm setting up lesson plans for all my classes and I'm preparing my fifth years for their OWLS." Phil says with a sigh. As if Wilbur should already know this.

The brown haired boy snarls, "Fine be like that Phil. Keep on making excuses, all the while Tommy drifts farther and farther away from you." He leans off the desk and sends one more look of disgust at Phil for good measure.

He turns around and adds resigned. "I'll talk to Tommy then." Is all he says before moving to walk out of the room.

Techno calls out, "Thanks Wilbur!"

The brown haired boy nods as a response before exiting the room.

Techno glances to Phil, unamused. "Really?"

Phil winces, "I panicked. And I'm not lying, I'm really busy. Besides Tommy would be much more open with Wilbur than me."

Techno rubs his temples, "You're making this much worse than it has to be Phil. Talk to them, both of them. I'm pretty sure if you act like this any longer Wilbur is going to begin conspiring against you."

That can be taken as a joke or seriously.

Phil smiles weakly, "I'll talk to them next time?" He makes it more of a question rather a statement.

Their family is doomed.

"And you're sure Dream isn't trying to kidnap you?"

Is the first thing Wilbur hears when he walks to the Hufflepuff table. He stands there for a second, just in general shock. Because what the fuck? Then he processes it and wants to murder a certain Slytherin.

I mean he was expecting Dream to find Tommy. But this soon?! It's hasn't even been a day since he confirmed that he had a younger brother? He's partly in awe at how fast Dream found Tommy. But he's mostly annoyed because seriously, what the fuck man.

If Dream thinks he can kidnap his little brother he has something coming for him.

Tommy groans loudly. "I told you Tubbo, no he doesn't want to kidnap me!" Tommy pauses and continues suspiciously, "Where the hell did you even get that idea big man?"

Tubbo glares, "The stupid Gryffindor was going to 'switch Ranboo's'house.'" Tubbo's eyes widen as he speaks slowly, "It's like forced adoption. Sapnap's forced adopting Ranboo and Dream is forced adopting you!"

Wilbur takes a few steps forward, sliding into the seat beside Tommy. Everyone in the general vicinity looks at him in shock. What, he can sit by the Hufflepuff table if he wants!

Wilbur leans forward, "Unfortunately Tommy won't be getting forcefully adopted by any Slytherins today."

The blonde beside him is silent for a second before he's beaming. "Wilbur!"

The sharper edges around his smile softens. As he returns with the same amount of glee. "Tommy."

A boy across the table from him speaks up. "You're Wilbur?"

He turns towards them with a grin, "At your service."

"You're the ugly bastard with a horrible fashion sense?"

Tubbo chokes on his food in surprise. Tubbo coughs for a few seconds before letting out a laugh. Tommy is being suspiciously quiet.

His eye twitches as he turns to Tommy. Said boy is pointedly looking away from him.

He nudges Tommy harshly. The blonde finally blurts out, "Well I'm not wrong am I?"

"I have a great fashion sense! You're basically saying you have a bad fashion sense you copy me!"

"NO I - uh don't. I don't copy you Wilbur, don't lie."

Tubbo interrupts pleading, "Please I don't want to witness another one of your guys arguments." The boy's face scrunches up, "It's disgustingly fond and I hate it."

Tommy drops his fork and crosses his arm. "We are not fond!"

Wilbur nods in agreement, crossing his arms as well. He barely tries to hide his smile, "Absolutely not. No fondness here."

Ranboo is looking at them doubtfully.

Tubbo practically screeches, "There it is! You're doing it right now, stop it!"

He shakes his head, "Are you seeing things right Tubbo? There is no fondness, in fact there is hate here. We hate each other."

Tommy continues seamlessly, "Fucking hate this guy man. He's old and a bitch."

Tubbo throws his hands up, "That's it I'm out!"

The boy leaves the table and flips them off before heading to the Ravenclaw table.

Ranboo closes his eyes for a second before standing up. Saying something under his breath. Glancing at the both of them, "I'm going to have to make sure he isn't murdering someone."

He nods, "Make sure he's alright Ranboo."

Ranboo wanders over to the Ravenclaw table. Sitting next to a scowling boy, who's already beginning to most definitely ramble about the annoying dynamic between the two brothers. The mess Ranboo has gotten himself into.

"Can you believe that Tubbo thought we were fond, us?!" Tommy ends in shock.

He wraps an arm around Tommy. "We're a bit fond, admittedly."

Tommy stares at him in betrayal, "No we're not! I thought you were on my side!"

He shrugs, "I thought it was funny to play into."

Tommy lets out a disappointed sigh, "You're ruining my reputation Wilbur."

He smiles and as much as he'd like to continue bantering, there are certain things he needs to ask about. He changes the conversation naturally. "So how has your first day been going?"

"Awesome! Some of my classes were boring but I've already learned a new spell! Everything was cool- uh I didn't really like Phil's class though..." Tommy slows at the mention of Phil. A small frown appearing on his face.

Of course it was Phil. He has to stop himself from sighing. He shouldn't be surprised that Phil managed to screw something up. But he was expecting at least a week before his first fuck up.

He tilts his head downwards. Speaking coolly, "Do you need me to yell at him for you?"

Tommy thinks about it for a moment before shaking his head. He continues, "Other than that it was pretty cool! During my flying lessons someone told me they would recommend me to the Hufflepuff captain." Tommy finishes in pride.

He smile widens, "Good job Tommy! I knew you could do it." He teases, "I guess all those 'secret' flying lessons paid off." Obviously he wasn't unaware to Tommy leaving their house to fly.

He has known for a while that Tommy practices flying at home. Even when he doesn't have supervision. Which makes him slightly nervous but he can't do anything to stop the boy. He doesn't have the heart when seeing how happy Tommy gets when flying.

Tommy adds on quickly, "I also met someone who knew you."

That could mean a lot of things. He asks, "Who was it?"

"Dream."

His smile drops. Right, the man had found Tommy. He was really hoping Dream would forget Tommy and focus on other things.

Tommy seems to sense his mood drop as he cautions. "Are you guys not friends...?" He doesn't say anything, Tommy continues. "Because he kind of acted the same as you when I mentioned you...."

Good to know the hatred is mutual.

He responds blankly, "We had some problems with each other during first year." He twirls his fork, "Though we're over it now. Just sometimes a bit tense around each other, you know?"

Tommy nods slowly. "I see."

Wilbur forces a smile onto his face, "And how did you sleep?"

He watches the blonde carefully. Tommy tenses for a second before forcing himself to relax. So Techno was right, Tommy didn't sleep last night. Sometimes he doubts Techno. He can't figure out an exact reason why Tommy wouldn't want to sleep.

"As well as I could, the beds are shit here." Tommy decides to go with.

He stares at Tommy unimpressed. He presses, "Come on Tommy. What's wrong?"

The blonde doubles back, "Nothing is wrong! I told you Wilbur."

He continues to stare with unconvinced eyes.

Tommy concedes hesitantly, "I've been having nightmares. And they're...they're making my-" Tommy exhales loudly before whispering, "It's making my magic crazy and I can't- don't want to fall asleep."

The vulnerability in Tommy's voice makes Wilbur want to drown in the lake outside Hogwarts.

He asks quietly, "Have you been meditating?"

Tommy doesn't respond. That is a response enough for him. Wilbur's lip twitches downward. "Tommy you know you have to do that, it helps you with controlling your magic-"

"I know, I know alright? I've just haven't thought about it for the past week. And things were going alright until last night." Tommy finishes and inhales slowly to calm himself.

Wilbur reminded, "Well then you have to meditate tonight before you go to bed-"

"NO!"

There's silence. From them and the Hufflepuff's near them. After a few seconds the other Hufflepuff's begin their conversations again. Some of looking back at Tommy and Wilbur in concern.

Wilbur frowns, "Tommy...?"

"I'm not sleeping in my room." Tommy practically demands. It leaves no room for reasoning. And Wilbur has no clue why Tommy doesn't want to sleep in his room. Sure his magic has been freaking out, but that's no reason to not want to sleep in his room.

"Well you have to sleep, you can't just not sleep."

Tommy begs, "Isn't there a spell somewhere that can make me not tired?" Wilbur can feel his pulse quicken, just for Tommy to mention magic like that... well obviously things are worse than he thought.

"I'm sure there is but that's incredibly dangerous Tommy. " Wilbur begins slowly. He wonders why he always gets stuck with the difficult conversations, goddammit Phil. He continues, "Sleep is nesscarry. Espically if you're going to be playing quidditch."

Tommy's eyes glaze over. A dissolving resolve on his face. But he still tries to be firm, "I'm not sleeping in my room."

Alright Wilbur can work with this. "Well would you can sleep in the Slytherin dormitory."

He could let Tommy sleep in the common room. It won't be too hard to convince the other Slytherin's to not do anything. They aren't exactly rule followers, well some are. But if he encounters them then he'll come up with something.

A flicker of hope goes through Tommy's eyes. But he still hesitates. "I don't know- will they care?"

He shakes his head, "They won't care. You can sleep in the common room-" He sighs, "Or my room. If you're uncomfortable with sleeping in the common room." He supposes that will be more easier. He won't have to bribe the Slytherin's who come across Tommy.

He knows Tommy isn't going to deny it when he sees acceptance pass through his face.

Wilbur places the blanket on the bed. He brought an extra one if he ever needed it, it got extremely cold down in the Slytherin dormitory.

Tommy is sitting on the end of the bed. Looking at forms given to him by his teachers. Trying to figure out how to forge Phil's signature instead of going to him. Which, fair. He wishes he would've thought about that.

He puts his hands on his hips and turns towards Tommy. "Alright you're all set up."

Tommy peaks his head around the papers. "What about you?"

"Well I'm not going to be sleeping on the floor. Besides," Wilbur sighs and closes his eyes. "I have an Astronomy at midnight."

Tommy looks queasy when he mentions the last bit. "I really don't think-"

"Tommy." Wilbur says sternly. He walks up to the boy and places his hands on the boy's shoulder. "You have to sleep, there's no but's here."

The blonde whines, "But I don't want to- I can't!"

He squeezes Tommy's shoulder softly. "I know you're afraid about your magic getting out of control. But it's going to be fine Tommy, you've meditated."

Tommy lowers his head, whispering. "You didn't see it Wilbur, you didn't see what happened, if you did you wouldn't want to sleep either!" His voice cracks multiple times, he doesn't mention it.

Tommy's voice is watery when he continues, "My magic- it felt horrible. I could feel it pushing against my skin. Like, like-" Tommy lets out a soft cry before wiping his tears away with his hand.

He frowns and moves one hand to Tommy's back. He rubs it in circles, hoping to comfort the boy. "Do you need to talk to mom about this?" Kristin was always the one who would help Tommy when his magic grew too strong for him.

Wilbur has powerful magic. And sometimes it was too powerful for him to control. But that didn't compare to Tommy, not in the slightest. Tommy's magic ever since he was a kid was wild. He had too much magic as a child and when he grew so did his magic. His magic kept on pushing the limits for Tommy.

The blonde's temper if he was mad enough could make his magic blow up as well. Phil had struggled to help Tommy. Kristin was the one to help. She gave tips and showed him meditation. She's been traveling for some time but she won't hesitate to come and see Tommy.

Tommy's lip wobbles. "I don't know- maybe?" Tommy's head hangs low. Looking strictly at his hands.

"I'm just really scared Wilbur."

Wilbur's heart practically cracks in that moment. It hurts looking at Tommy when he's like this. To see his little brother, someone he has already hurt enough like this is painful. It makes his heart ache.

"I'm scared of my magic, I'm scared of sleeping, and I-" Tommy lets out another sob and shoves his face into Wilbur's chest. He stumbles back slightly before holding the boy. Tommy whispers, "I don't know to do Wilbur, please help."

Wilbur freezes for a second. He doesn't have a clue of what to do. He isn't supposed to be the one dealing with this. It should be Phil, it should've been Phil to be the one to talk about this. He's only fifteen, how the hell is he supposed to comfort his younger brother and tell him all is fine when he doesn't know if that's even true.

But Wilbur nods and hugs the boy tightly. He sways back and forth as he brushes his hand against the blonde hair. He whispers, and if his voice cracks that's no one's business. "It's alright Tommy, everything will be fine, you can sleep."

Tommy sniffles and lets out another cry.

His face scrunches up as he tries to hold in tears. His grip tightens slightly. "I promise I'll help." He smiles sadly, "Just go to sleep for now. I'll even sit here with you, make sure everything is alright. I'll wake you if your magic is acting up."

He stands there silently. Swaying back and forth. His hand brushes against Tommy's hair soothingly. He whispers reassurances whenever Tommy's crying would start up again. Some point or another Tommy had just stopped moving.

He could only hear the soft breaths and the ocassional twitch.

He lets out a shaky breath and softly lays Tommy on the bed. He places the pillow underneath the boy and then places the blanket.

Wilbur wipes the tears that remained from Tommy's face. Brushing the hair away from Tommy's eyes. He looks painfully young. And then he's reminded that Tommy is young. He's ten years old and dealing with this.

He bits his lip to stop himself from letting out a pained noise.

Wilbur holds his hand up, "Accio wand."

His wand flies firmly into his hands. He walks closer to Tommy. Sitting on the edge of the bed and points his wand towards Tommy. He twirls his wand downwards before incanting.

"Non sequnntur somnina."

Soft blue light emerges from the tip of his wand. It moves to drift over Tommy's head. It stands still for a moment before falling onto the boy's face. The blonde twitches slightly. Tommy's skin glows a soft blue for a second before it returns to it's normal color.

He turns away when he sees it.

A singular red spark popping near Tommy's temple. His skin then glows red. A split second later the soft blue from the spell he casted clashes with the dark red. The colors turn and dance around each other. As if they were fighting with each other. Ten seconds later, his skin is perfectly clear.

Wilbur feels dread rise in him.

At two in the morning the comforting silence is interrupted by loud knocking.

Phil sighs, moving away from his desk. He pinches the bridge of his nose wondering what student might be pranking him. Only the second night and students are pulling pranks.

He opens the doors and instead of nobody there stands someone.

Wilbur has dark circles under his eyes. He demands in a hoarse voice, "You need to call Kristin."

Oh bloody hell.