Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

‘We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry as a fifth-year student. 

Term begins on 1 September.

Preliminary supplies have been collected for you and will accompany you on your journey to the castle.

As you may be aware, the Decree for the Reasonable Restriction of Underage Sorcery prohibits the use of magic by those under the age of seventeen outside school. However, due to your unique circumstances, the Ministry has graciously agreed to allow Professor Eleaxar Fig to help you hone your spell-casting before escorting you from London to the castle for the start-of-term feast and the Sorting Ceremony. 

Yours sincerely, Professor Weasley

Deputy Headmistress 

Kaylub stood before a carriage looking at the second-hand wand he was given to practice as Professor Fig was busy magically tying the materials to the carriage. He looked towards the front of the carriage wondering what was pulling them.

Kaylub conversed with Professor Fig, who was an older gent with grey hair and blue eyes, before another man apparates before the two.

“Ah, George.” Kaylub watches as the two men converse, not wanting to be rude, and accepts George joining them for the ride.

On the ride to Hogwarts, Kaylub looked out among the clouds seeing a dark glow and noticing the dragon. He didn’t say anything as the two men were busy talking to each other.

“What’s that glow?” Kaylub had noticed the light glow on the canister the two men were conversing about.

“What glow? I don’t see any glow.”

“Neither do I.” Professor Fig hands the canister over to Kaylub who holds it and watches as the light fades and the canister opens. 

“Don’t! We don’t know what it does.” Professor Fig advised the young male.

The carriage is then ripped apart as George is taken by the dragon from before. Whom Kaylub can clearly see is wearing a collar that was glowing black and red and watched as the dragon kills George. That’s when he hears the neghing and turns to see Thesterals pulling the carriage. The coach tries to urge them on, but in the end the three jump as the coach apparates away and Professor Fig grabs a hold of Kaylub before using Accio on the key.

The two arrive in a cave as Kaylub collapses in pain.

“Here, take this.” Professor Fig hands him a Wiggenweld potion. Kaylub drinks it graciously.

“What happened?” Kaylub asks as Professor Fig goes off about the dragon attacking. “Sir, where are we?”

“I don’t know, but it’s clear that the key was a Portkey.”

“A Portkey?” He explains it as Kaylub stands up feeling better.

“Stay close, we have no idea who created that portkey–or why.” The young student nodded and stuck close as the two travelled out of the cave.

It became very clear that the two were no longer in London as the crashing of waves hit the cliff shore. The two see old ruins and Kaylub follows the Professor to them, indulging the old man in the mystery that his wife, and now George, seemed to have died for.

Professor Fig talks about how his wife, Miriam, had been searching for traces of ‘Lost Magic’.

“Reparo!” Professor Fig reconstructs the bridge and the two head over to the ruins. The two split up to search for anything out of place and Kaylub notes the Mural on the wall along with the statue of the presumed owner.

It was as Kaylub continued to travel that he found the symbol again, but this time there was a room behind it. ‘Avada kedavra’ it whispered to him as he called Professor Fig over. He couldn’t see the wall… or hear the voice, but Kaylub kept that one to himself.

He touches the symbol and they arrive in Gringotts.

“Godric’s heart.” The two go up to the sleeping goblin banker. Professor Fig tries to get his attention three times which wakes the goblin on the third try.

“Oh, oh my. Vault twelve, I presume?”

“Correct.”

“Key?” Professor Fig looked confused.

“The Portkey.” Kaylub whispers to him.

“Oh, right.” He hands it over as the two follow the goblin. “Stay close.” Kaylub nodded as the two rode the rails down and further down into the depths of Gringotts.

“State your business?” The cart was stopped by another goblin in what looked like an officer uniform. His band on his arm glowed the same black and red as the dragon’s collar. 

“Vault twelve. It’s a momentous day.” While the goblin banker that was with them was happy and excited, the other goblin wasn’t.

“Be on your way.” They continued on.

“Professor, that goblin band had the same glow as before.”

“Like the key?”

“No, darker, like the dragon’s collar.”

“Then it’s best that we be careful.” The two learn more about the guard goblin from the banker goblin before arriving at the vault.

“The instructions were to open the vault for the key holder and close the door after they had entered.” The door shuts after the two have entered. “Good luck.”

“Professor, There’s something shimmering over there.”

“Ah, best opportunity to learn Revelio.” He teaches Kaylub the spell and allows him to use it to show a door that had the same symbol as the case.

After touching the symbol, the two are sent into darkness.

“Lumos. Stay close.” The two travel through the darkness with Kaylub noticing a blue light. He touches it and a wave of magic goes through him and the floor changes.

“The floor changed.”

“There’s a suit of armour under the floor.”

“What suit of armour?” Kaylub uses Revelio and the suit of armour appears over the shadow, but now the shadow’s facing the wrong way.

“I assume this is what you saw in the floor?”

“Yes, but now it’s facing the wrong way… it seems to be following your light.”

“Mmm, well perfect time for you to learn.” Kaylub learns Lumos and guides the reflection to match with the overhead… which causes the statue to stand and more to appear. Kaylub uses Protego to defend and the basic attack to defeat the ones that aren’t taken down by Professor Fig. A wind picks up after all the statues were defeated.

“Professor?”

“Stay close!” Kaylub tries to stay by his side, but the lights go out and Professor Fig vanishes as well.

“Professor? Professor! Lumos!” His wand lights up and he sees that he’s alone. Where do I go? After he takes a step, magical wisps form and start to lead him. Guess that answers that. He starts to follow the little lights and finds another symbol. 

He touches it and, once again, the floor changes to greet him with three statues.

“Guess I’m doing this on my own.” He aligns the reflections and initiates the battle. With a mix of Protego, Stuplify, and the basic attack, he beats all the statues to be plunged back in darkness.

“Lumos.” He lights his wand and follows the wisps to where another energy was. This one was before a large statue of the symbol. He touches it and watches as the symbol becomes a door, whispering to him again, and he goes through.

Inside the spacious room was a basin in the centre with something floating in the middle of it. He walks over and looks around before taking it. 

Then the doors open and Professor Fig enters.

“Where are we? And how did you get here?”

“I don’t know. The only thing in here was that basin and this.” I showed him the bottle.

“That’s no basin. That’s a Pensieve.” Kaylub tilts his head confused. “And, if I may?”

“Of course.” Kaylub hands it over and the two look into it to see the making of this room as well as the fact that one of the wizards, Percival Rackham, could see ancient magic.

“That’s what you’re seeing, ancient magic.” The two then hear the slamming of a door. “We have company. Stay behind me.” Kaylub hides behind him as the door opens to four goblins. One being the banker and another being the guard from before.

“Ranrok.” Fig glares at the head goblin with red eyes and two gauntlets.

“It seems my reputation precedes me.”

“Sir, the instructions were quite clear.” Ranrok kills the banker who had been helpful.

“Now let’s be civil about this. I’ll let you live if you give me what you got out of this room.”

“Never.”

“Maybe your young friend will be more helpful.” Fig fires off a spell, but Ranrok just fires it back sending the two flying.

The room, reacting to the dark attack, took away the Pensieve and instead sent out a giant, blue glowing, knight who attacked the goblins.

Kaylub sees a way out.

“Professor!” He calls out as the giant knight gets pushed back by the goblins causing it to stumble towards the two. It swings its sword breaking a pillar and the two barely manage to escape.

“Professor, where are we now?”

“How interesting. It seems that the magic has led us here.”

“But where is here?”

“Come, we have a sorting ceremony to attend.” Kaylub follows him through the forest.

Chapter Text

Professor Fig listens to the door and hears the sorting ceremony.

“Good, we haven’t missed the sorting ceremony. This seems more appropriate.” He changes Kaylub’s outfit to the school uniform without a house colour and crest. He nods and peeks through the door where the last first-year was being sorted. 

Headmaster Black was just about to give final remarks when he noticed Fig in the doorway. He composes himself and walks down the centre of the four tables to the door.

“Phineas Nigellus Black,” Fig spat out his name as he turned to Kaylub. “Brace yourself to meet the headmaster of Hogwarts.” Kaylub straightened himself out and dusted himself off as out of the hall came a tall man with black hair and manicured facial hair. The man flicks his eyes over Kaylub before looking straight at Fig.

“Fig.” He spats out. “The sorting ceremony is over. We’ll have to find a different evening to do this.”

“We ran into some complications.”

“Complications?”

“You see Goblins-”

“Goblins? I don’t have time for rumours!” He then looks over at Kaylub. “Come along, we might still have time to get you sorted.” His voice was softer than when he was talking to Fig. He turns and walks back into the Great Hall. 

While walking through the Great Hall, Black looks behind him to ensure that Kaylub was following before the two reach the stage. There are whispers as the students look at the new student on the stage. 

“We have one more to be sorted.” Kaylub looks as a witch comes over and smiles with her red hair pulled up into a low bun.

“Have a seat, dear.” Kaylub does as told and the sorting hat is placed upon his head.

“Ah, a determined mind with a kind heart. Loyalty to a friend is what caused your late arrival. Must be… HUFFLEPUFF!” Cheers rang out as people clapped. He remained standing by the kind witch, who had changed his robes to match his house, as Black stepped forward after giving a polite applause to the new student’s sort.

“One more thing, due to an accident last season, Quidditch will be cancelled this year.” A chorus of groans could be heard along with complaints. “It’s not like I banned flying all together, though don’t tempt me. Now I’m sure you all have plenty to do before classes begin tomorrow.” He gives the slight gesture for the students to leave… no one does. “I said, I’m sure you all have plenty to do before classes begin tomorrow.” His gesture was more forced this time as the students actually left now.

“It good to see you arrive, I’m-”

“Professor Weasley, if you wouldn’t mind showing the new student to their dormitory.”

“Of course. Follow me.” Kaylub does just that.

The two arrived by the kitchens where there were a large amount of barrels.

“I would open it myself, but doing it incorrectly tends to leave the person sprayed with vinegar. Now, if I recall correctly, It’s the barrel two from the bottom, middle of the second row, in the rhythm of "He-lga Huff-le-puff".” Kaylub blinks at the defence mechanism for the house and taps the barrel as the large barrel next to him opens up.

“Get a good night's rest. I will meet you in the morning.” With that, Kaylub enters the black and yellow decorated common room before finding his way to his own room, shared with three other boys, and going to bed.

The next morning, Kaylub woke up and entered the common room to see that three students were trying to get a cat down.

“Here, kitty.” The cat jumps down onto the taller boy's head before landing in Kaylub’s arms.

“Wow, we’ve been trying to get him down for a while.”

“You’re amazing!”

“It’s nothing. She just doesn’t seem to like being surrounded. Try not to corner her again, okay?” The two first-years nod as Kaylub hands the blond one the purring cat.

“Wow, you’re really good with animals.” Kaylub shrugged looking up at the dark-skinned male with glasses.

“I just have a connection with them. Was that you’re cat?”

“No, my mom doesn’t like pets, especially magical ones. You see, she’s a muggle so when dad brought home a Puffskein, she freaked. It went right back to the shop after it stuck its tongue up her nose.” Kaylub giggled softly at that. “Wait, you’re the new fifth-year everyone’s talking about. Don’t get lost on your way to class.”

“Thank you…”

“Oh, right, the name’s Arthur Plummly.”

“Pleasure to meet you, Arthur.”

“You as well.” Kaylub then takes his leave and meets Professor Weasley outside.

“Ah, I hope you slept well on your first night here at Hogwarts?”

“Yes, I did.” Kaylub smiled, though he did have a nightmare and thought it would be best not to tell.

“I’m glad to hear. As a new student starting their fifth-year, you have a lot to catch up on. So we came up with an innovative way for you to be able to catch up. Here is your Field Guide.” She shows him the book that will be giving him pages to find that will help him catch up on the four years he missed.

“Thank you, Professor.”

“Of, course, now follow me and I’ll show you how to use it.” He does follow her and finds a page in front of a recipe book after using Revelio as instructed. She also teaches him about the Floo network within the school that will allow him to travel anywhere within the school with ease as long as he’s already been there, symbolised by the green flame.

The two travel to Central Hall where the tour comes to an end.

“You have Defence against the Dark Arts as well as Charms today. Meet me after your classes and I will discuss the other assignments your Professors and I have come up with to help you catch up. We will also have to get you to Hogsmeade to replace the equipment you lost and get you your own wand. I’m sure there’s more that happened to you than a misdirection and loss of equipment.”

“There was, but I can’t make sense of what happened.”

“I understand. Though Professor Fig should have explained better.” Professor Fig arrives. “Your ears must have been burning.” Professor Fig looks confused. “We were just discussing your incident before arrival. I hope you will be able to show him how the book can help.”

“Of course.” She then leaves. “I’m glad I was able to meet with you before your classes took your attention. Did I overhear you telling Professor Weasley about what happened?”

“No, I told her there’s more to the story than just the dragon attack, but never specified.”

“Good, it would be wise to keep this between the two of us. I still need to look into the locket we found. Also, the book can help guide you to where you need to go so you’ll never be lost. Quite handy that is. I must go, but I’ll be in touch.” Kaylub nodded watching him leave before looking at the book’s map and seeing where he needed to go to attend his classes.

Defence against the Dark Arts was first on his list as he enters to see two students duelling, a Slytherin and a Gryffindor. The two boys were casting spells and blocking with Protego as other students watched. But when one of the Slytherin’s spells go astray and breaks the head off of the dragon skeleton, Professor Hecet intervenes before the skull can crush the Gryffindor. They learn Leviosa and Kaylub beat Sebastian in a duel earning praise from Hecet and respect from Sebastian.

“You know, we have a duelling club in an unsanctioned and unsupervised part. If you’re interested, just talk to Lucan Brattleby down by the Clocktower Courtyard. Hope to see you there.” He smirks and leaves as Kaylub goes to Charms

Professor Ronen was bubbly and decided to refresh everyone's memory on Accio with a game. Kaylub goes up against Natsai who is the most gifted in the class. Natsai wins. The two talk after class as Natsai is also a transfer student though she came in her fourth year with her mother who teaches Divinations.

“You wanted to speak with me Professor?”

“How was your first Charms lesson?”

“A competition wasn’t what I was expecting.”

“There’s no charm in the expected.” He informs Kaylub of a special assignment he’s working on that Professor Weasley has asked all of his Professors to do.

Speaking of Professor Weasley, Kaylub heads down to her classroom.

Kaylub enters the room to see Professor Weasley talking to a House elf before he apparates away.

“I hope your first classes went well.”

“They did.”

“I had heard as much from Professor Hecet and Ronen. It seems Professor Fig taught you a lot on your way here. I’d wager there’s a good deal more to your travels here than what you’ve told me–isn’t there?”

“Hasn’t Professor Fig said anything about my training?”

“Only about you learning Revelio and Lumos.”

“That’s it.” She looks sceptical, but doesn’t push. “Your professors will be helping you catch up with the others by giving you out-of-class assignments. Ronen should have one ready for you now. After that, you will go to Hogsmead to gather the supplies you lost and get your own wand at Ollivanders. For your first trip you will go with a friend so they can guide you. Either Natsai or Sebastian would do.”

“Sebastian.” That way I can learn more about this club.

“Good choice, he certainly knows his way around. And help you to avoid the unsavable sort of Rookwood and his right hand man of sorts. Best hurry so you can enjoy Butterbeer at the Three Broomsticks.” Kaylub nods and takes his leave, finding Professor Ronen outside in the courtyard.

Kaylub learns Reparo after using Accio to find some pages. He then heads towards the Clocktower Courtyard.

“Can I help you?” A young Gryffindor asks as Kaylub looks over at him.

“Are you Lucan?”

“Yes.”

“Sebastian suggested the club for duelling.”

“If Sebastian vouches for you, you must be good.”

“He’s a good duelist as well.” 

Lucan continues to talk about the secretive club known as Crossed Wands. He then offers to set up a duel to see where Kaylub is and he’s paired with Sebastian against two other students.

Kaylub takes down the other Hufflepuff male with Leviosa, breaking his shield, and not letting up with his attacks. He uses Protego as the girl aimed an attack at him and then it was a two on one with Kaylub and Sebastian taking down the Ravenclaw girl.

“That was a jolly good show,” Lucan said as Sebastian patted Kaylub’s shoulder.

“Thank you.”

“I’ll inform you when I’ve got another duel ready for you.”

“Thank you.”

“Shall we?” Sebastian gestured out.

Chapter Text

“I can’t believe you asked for me to show you around Hogsmeade.” Sebastian was walking next to Kaylub as they made their way to Hogsmeade.

“It was fun duelling you and with you.”

“Yeah, also this gets me out of detention.” Kaylub tilted his head as the two were walking the path towards Hogsmeade. “Madam Scribler was hunting me down before Professor Weasley came and found me.”

“Why?”

“Difference in interest.” Another tilt. “I wanted to go into the restricted section, she disagrees.”

“Oh.”

“Anyway there’s plenty to do in Hogsmeade, but what do you need to do?”

“I need to get seeds, recipes, books, and my wand.”

“Ah, Ollivanders, can’t wait to see how much stronger you are with your own wand.” The two continued walking as the conversation went to Sebastian's sister and Thesterals.

“Must have been hard to see them after that.” Sebastian brought up recalling that Kaylub had seen someone die due to a dragon.

“It’s definitely something.”

“Well, here we are, Hogsmeade. I need to get something for my sister, let’s meet up in the square when you’re done.” Kaylub nods before leaving.

He goes to The Magic Neep, J. Pippins Potions, and Tomes and Scrolls. Each greets him already knowing what he needs as well as what their services provide. But when he arrives at Olilivanders, he’s not there. 

He rings the bell and Ollivander comes around.

“Ah, I was wondering when you would arrive.”

“You were expecting me?”

“You are the new fifth year, are you not? Of course you are! Come, let’s get you matched with your wand.” He tries two different wands before picking up a grey Cypress, 10 and three quarters, Unicorn hair core, slightly yielding wand and feeling a rush of within him.

“Ah, another perfect match. That wand will know what you need even before you do and with a Unicorn hair core it will be loyal to the end.”

“Thank you.”

“I hope to see you if you shall ever need my services again.”

Kaylub met up with Sebastian and the two talked about what they got. Just when they were going to get Butterbeer, a troll wearing armour that glowed the same black and red appeared and started to attack.

Kaylub was quick to pull his wand and attack to distract the troll from attacking the others. It turned and aimed to take out Sebastian.

“Lead it away from the village!” A woman appears and attacks the troll, which takes its attention away from the two students and it follows the three who were attacking it. 

It’s quiet for a moment before a second one arrives crashing through a home. It charges straight for Sebastian and Kaylub who engage with it in combat. Kaylub attacks the troll with rubble and feels the magic in him change as he shatters the troll into a purple mist that disappears.

“Did I just see you two handle a fully grown troll on your own?” The woman had returned.

“I think so, but it’s a bit of a blur, Officer.”

“Singer, Officer Singer. You did good. If you are unharmed, I hope you don’t mind helping clean up?”

“Not at all.” She smiles at the two before leaving. Kaylub gets started as Sebastian goes to answer the call of one of the shopkeepers.

“That was mighty fine work you did. I can be of service, you see I have some attire that has some…protective quality to them. I wish for you to have this.” The shopkeep, Augustus Hill, spoke to Kaylub when he entered after using Reparo to clean up.

“I simply can’t accept this without paying.”

“Considering you saved Hogsmeade, I think this is not enough payment.”

“If you insist.” He receives a new robe.

“Now let’s go get that Butterbeer. I think we deserve it.” Kaylub nods and the two leave.

While on the way to the Three Broomsticks, Kaylub notices someone walking down some stairs. The two go over to see a wizard meeting with Ranrok!

“I gave you a distraction and you couldn’t get one child.”

“That child single-handedly got rid of that distraction. What are you not telling me?” Ranrok looks over the wizard's shoulder and Kaylub dips away, taking Sebastian with him.

“Victor Rookwood. If he’s involved then it’s nothing good.”

“He was talking to Ranrok.”

“Ranrok? I saw him in the paper a while back… we should get into the Three Broomsticks.” Sebastian had seen that Rookwood had climbed the stairs and took Kaylub’s hand dragging him into the Pub.

“Sirona’s the best.” The two see her wave off a goblin before greeting the two.

“You’re a new face. Here, Butterbeer, on the house.” Kaylub looks at her confused. “I heard about the trolls, I’ll have to check in on the other shopkeepers later. Though it is strange. Trolls, here in Hogsmeade, it’s simply unheard of. Seems there’s some trouble brewing.” 

That’s when Rookwood entered with Harlow by his side.

“Speaking of trouble.” She walks around the bar and greets the two.

“I’m not here to cause trouble. I’m just here for that one.” He points to Kaylub as Sirona steps to be more of a barrier between the two.

“My friend here is busy.”

“I’m trying to be civil.” Every patreon has their wands out as Rookwood’s partner has his wand out. “But I see how far Three Broomsticks has fallen. We’ll be taking out Galleons elsewhere.” His eyes linger on golden eyes before leaving.

“Rookwood after you, there’s something you’re not telling me.” Sebastian brought up as everything calmed back down.

“I’ll tell you all about it later.” He whispers as Sebastian picks up on the cues. 

“We should probably head back now. It’s getting late and Professor Weasley’s probably already heard what happened with the Troll. Don’t want to be caught out after curfew.” Kaylub nods and the two head back together before separating to go to their own Houses.

Chapter Text

Kaylub meets with Professor Fig after receiving a letter from him via Owl Post.

“You wished to see me, Professor?” Kaylub asked as he entered Professor Fig’s office.

“Ah, yes, about the locket. I managed to open it and this map appeared.”

“Looks like there’s something in the Restricted Section of the library and the area around it.”

“I was hoping you’d see something.”

“Then we should go.” Kaylub starts to leave.

“While I encourage the enthusiasm, we need to be cautious. If Ranrok and Rookwood are working together to get whatever it is you can see, then we need to be prepared for whatever lies ahead. I asked Hecat to speed along your assignment. Go speak with her and then we’ll talk.”

“What if it’s just a book?”

“That is what I’m hoping that’s all it’ll be. But it can’t hurt to expand your defensive capabilities.” Kaylub nodded and took his leave.

Kaylub met with Professor Hecat whose task was to battle and train within the Cross Wands.

“Seems it’s not as much of a secret as they thought.”

He battled alongside Sebastian again as they took on three opponents. The two win and Kaylub returns to Hecat and learns Incendio.

“Professor Fig.” Kaylub enters his classroom and finds the older male at his desk. “I worked on my defensive spell, like you asked.”

“Good, then it’s best not to waste anymore time.”

“Fig!” Headmaster Black enters looking at the Professor, not seeing Kaylub in the room. “We have a meeting. Now.”

“But I am with a student and my schedule is-”

“They can wait and so can your schedule. My office, five minutes.” He then leaves.

“It seems I musn’t keep our esteemed Headmaster waiting.”

“But what about the restricted section?”

“It will have to wait.” Professor Fig leaves. I wonder if Sebastian is free?

“Well, hello again.”

“Hello, Sebastian.” The two were by a tapestry on a staircase.

“Now are you going to tell me about what’s going on with you and Rookwood?”

“Of course. It seems he’s working with Ranrok, who is after what we found in the vault at Gringotts. See Professor Fig had this Portkey.”

“Portkey, Gringotts? This isn’t making much sense.”

“To be honest, it doesn't make a lot of sense to me either, but I’ve already told you more than I should have. But I need your help.”

“And how can I help?”

“I need to get in the restricted section of the library.”

“Say no more. Meet me tonight.” Kaylub nodded and the two went their separate ways.

The two met on the staircase across from the library.

“Blast, see that door, we need to get in it. But the pesky Prefects are guarding. Best time you learn a new spell. Disillusionment makes you practically invisible. It’ll help us get by them.” Kaylub nodded and the two cast the spell before sneaking past the Prefects into the Library.

“I thought you said that Scribner would be gone by now.” The two were hiding behind a bookcase from the Librarian.

“I said she might. You need to get the key from her desk. I’ll distract her.”

“Isn’t there a spell for that?”

“Alohomora? She figured out that’s how I’ve been getting in so she got an anti-Alohomora lock, so we need the key.” Kaylub nodded and went along with Sebastian’s plan and the two met up at the door before continuing on avoiding two ghosts.

“Why do you come in here?” Kaylub asked as the two could walk normally in the lower level of the restricted section.

“My twin sister, Anne, is ill with a disease that none can cure. Everyone’s given up on her, but not me. I won’t. I won’t question why you’re down here.” He had a small smirk obviously trying to lift the mood.

“I’m sorry. I hope she can be helped.” Sebastian genuinely smiles seeing Kaylub care. He was going to say something, but then Peeves appeared before going off to tell on the two.

“I’ll go handle him, continue on.” Before Kaylub could tell him no, he had already left, going invisible again. Guess I’m on my own.

Kaylub continued down eventually finding a gateway which activates when he interacts with the ancient magic again. Wonder where this leads.

He enters the gateway and goes down further into the underbelly of Hogwarts. There he fights more of Percival’s soldiers/guards before entering a room with a pensive in the centre. He touched the book that was hanging over it and it dropped a memory into the basin.

He watches as Percival Rackham, along with two other wizards and a witch, look over a valley to see a village in despair. They nod to Percival who uses his magic to make a storm arrive and the others join in with him to heal the land and transform it into a beautiful greenery.

The next memory was that of them at Hogwarts, Percival was a Professor as the Witch was the Headmistress. The girl from the village turned out to be a lot like Kaylub, also able to see the ancient magic, like Percival who was the only one, and also starting Hogwarts as a Fifth year. The four agreed to teach her after she learned all that Hogwarts had to offer and to keep it a secret.

Coming out of the Pensive, Kaylub decided to go talk to Fig about what he gained and learned.

Kaylub enters Fig’s office to see that he was with a new man who had shoulder-length black hair. The two were talking about Rookwood and Ranrok working together.

“I see you have a visitor. I’ll see what I can find.” The male looked down at Kaylub who meekly stepped out of the way and walked by.

Kaylub waited until he couldn’t hear his footsteps anymore.

“Professor, I went into the Restricted section while you were busy with Black. It was a book we were after.” Kaylub presents him with the book.

“How did you get into the Restricted sections–no I think it best you spare me the details. Let’s take a look.” Fig opens the book only to find some pages torn out as Kaylub also tells him about the memories from the Pensive as well. “Well, I’ll have to study this while I’m in London. Black wants me to go tell the Minister about George’s death.”

“I’ll look into the missing pages as well while you’re gone.”

“Do so, but don’t neglect your studies or your friends. Both are quite important.” Kaylub nods before taking his leave.

Chapter Text

Kaylub receives an Owl detailing his out-of-class assignment given to him by Professor Hecat and goes to the Duelling club where he practises and battles in the final challenge to determine who’s the best. He battles with Sebastian and wins.

“You wished to meet?” Kaylub was at a hamlet in the south talking to Natty, a nickname for Natsai that only her friends can call her.

“Yes, I was there at the Three Broomsticks. I had seen that Rookwood and Halow were after you. Why?”

“They’re working with Ranrok who’s after something Professor Fig and I found before I arrived.”

“I see. Well, I’ll help you in any way I can. If we take out Halow, Rookwood would be in a critical state since he’s managing all his affairs. I had heard they’re planning a big Pouching job so I’ll keep an ear out.”

“Thank you, Natty, but don’t put yourself in too much danger.”

“I’ll only be gathering evidence so that Officer Singer can handle the rest.” Kaylub nodded agreeing and decided to take a look at the hamlet they were at.

“Oh, dear.”

“Excuse me, are you okay?” Kaylub went over to a Goblin who was on the edge of the hamlet looking worse for wear.

“No, my cart was stolen by those Loyalists of Ranrok. He doesn’t care much for traitors.” The goblin said, looking up at Kaylub.

“I can see if I can get them back, what was stolen?” Kaylub asked as he soon learned that Arn was an artist who was worried about his paintings. He gets the possible location of the camp and a worried warning to be safe.

He finds the camp and sneaks in using Disillusionment to hide and catch the enemy goblins off-guard before battling the rangers with Accio and Incendio before setting the carts free. I think I should head back now.

On his way back to Arn, Kaylub finds Nora Treadwell and fights against some of Rookwood’s cronies, also known as Ashwinders, who were after him. The two talk and Kaylub learns of the Merlin Trials.

He takes a few of them on before returning to Hogwarts to continue his schooling.

First, he goes to Defence Against the Dark Arts to talk to Professor Hecet after class and learns Expelliarmus.

Next was a new class, Herbology. 

Entering the class, he’s greeted by the eccentric Professor Garlick, with her long red hair done in two pigtails that go down to her waist over both shoulders, who gives him cotton balls for his ears.

“Everyone, let’s welcome our newest Rose to our garden.” Kaylub makes eye contact with Sebastian who smiles. He goes next to him and they learn all about Mandrakes. While repotting, Kaylub gets a more matured Mandrake that nearly shatters the glass roof of the Greenhouse. He puts it in the next pot as instructed and can still hear some ringing despite the plugs.

His next destination was Potions where he sees the man from Professor Fig’s office again. That must be Professor Sharp. Wonder why he was in Professor Fig’s office? Kaylub saw that he was limping and when he looked at him, he gently touched the scar that crossed his left eye, seeing the same pattern on the Professor’s face.

“Today we will be brewing Wiggenweld Potions.” Kaylub could feel Sharp’s gaze on him as he brewed.

“You will also be brewing the Edurus Potion as well. For today, you can get the ingredients out of my office. Afterwards you will have to retrieve the ingredients yourself.”

“Yes, Professor.” 

Kaylub didn’t agree to help Garreth Weasley, nephew of Professor Weasley, with his plan to “borrow” an ingredient that Sharp didn’t ask Kaylub to get. That earned him a few points with the Professor. He also brewed the potion perfectly.

“Don’t call yourself a Potion’s master yet. You still have much to learn.”

“And I am ready to.” He gives a smile as Professor Sharp dismisses the class.

Finding himself back in the common room, Kaylub hears someone call out to him.

“You called me?” Kaylub walked over to a portrait of Eldritch Diggory, a past Minister of Magic.

“Ah, I’m glad to see you. I can help you with your missing pages.”

“How did you know?”

“We portraits see and hear more than you think, and we have quite the gossip ring.”

“How can I get them?”

“You help me solve an unsolved case. My descendant Helen can help you. She lives on the outskirts of a hamlet.”

“What is this case?”

“A student who used to go here, perished, and an innocent girl was blamed. I believe those pages could help prove her innocence.”

“I’ll go visit her.”

“I’ll meet you there.” Kaylub nodded to the portrait and left Hogwarts.

“Oh, dear, where could he have gone?” Kaylub looks over at a lady who was running a stand in the hamlet to the north of Hogsmeade.

“Excuse me, who are you looking for?” 

“My brother had gone missing after getting involved with the dark arts trying to get stronger to deal with the goblins that had set up camp around here.” Kaylub blinked at the amount of information he just got.

“Are the goblins still around?”

“Yes, I fear that they will soon run down our little hamlet.”

“Where did your brother disappear from?”

“The forest nearby, he was hanging out with those Ashwinders, a bad batch, but he insisted on getting stronger after those goblins had sent him to St. Mungos. I worry for him and now he’s gone and the goblins are still around.” Kaylub could feel her worries and decided to do something to help.

He knew he was supposed to go meet with Helen, but he’s sure they would understand why he was late.

“I hope your brother returns soon.” Kaylub gave a smile and parted ways, heading out of the hamlet to the south towards the goblin camps.

“One less wizard to worry about.” One of the goblins spoke as Kaylub snuck around petrifying the enemy until he got caught. Accio and Incendio were useful as well as Expelliarmus to disarm the opponents. He looked around the empty camp and noticed a goblin drill. I wonder what they’re looking for? 

He moved onto the second camp and cleared it in a similar manner, finding an area that called to him with the wisps of ancient magic. Strange, I wonder why this is here?

Kaylub decided to go find Clair’s brother before returning to her, but he instead finds a camp filled with Inferi. Oh, no. Kaylub looked to see one of the Inferius wearing a red, hand-knitted sweater. 

“Bardolph.” He whispered as he was hesitant to fight the undead wizard. “Incendio.” The fire consumed the wizard and singed the sweater, but it remained intact.

“Ah, welcome back. How can I help you?” Kaylub returned to Claire Beaumont who smiled seeing the student.

“I took care of the goblin camps.”

“Ah, thank you. My brother will be so happy when he returns.” Kaylub winced hearing her optimism about her brother.

“Speaking of your brother…” He took out the sweater and watched Claire’s eyes widen and glass over with tears. “I found him in a camp with other Inferi. He had been turned into one of them. I’m sorry.” He hands over the sweater as Claire breaks down and cries into the sweater.

“Thank you for informing me. I’m so sorry, my dear brother.” She said after she had calmed down a bit.

“I’m sorry again for your loss.” Kaylub takes his leave.

“I’m here.”

“Ah, glad to see you took up my invitation.” Eldritch Diggory smiled at Kaylub who entered the little home of Helen Thistlewood.

“I was curious about this case as well.”

“Good to hear. I worry Anne isn’t handling Azkaban well. The dementors are not kind.” She goes on to explain how Anne ended up in Azkaban due to another student named Richard Jackdaw death. She wasn’t able to prove her innocence and believes that the missing pages in the book that Kaylub found might lead to the answer.

“We will first have to go to Azkaban. She might not want to talk to anyone else, but you, a student much like she was, might be able to get through to her.”

“Okay.” 

“Don’t worry, I’ve escorted Professors, Ministers, and others to Azkaban, but never a student. I will keep you safe.” The two travel to Azkaban.

The place was dreary with a chill in the air that made Kaylub shiver. It was then that he saw the dementors that guard the place start to come at the two.

“Expecto Patronum!” A white, wispy, rabbit appears and pulses of light drive the dementors back. “That should hold them off for now. Though you may feel a sense of dread for a moment.” Kaylub nodded and the two walked towards Anne’s cell. The other inmates talk about Anne and give warning to the two.

“She might be far gone with the dementors not being kind. Speak to her quietly and patiently.” Helen states as Kaylub walks up to the bars looking in to see a woman curled against the wall picking at it.

“Anne? I’m a student at Hogwarts, I heard you know about the missing pages to a book I found?” Kaylub asks softly like Helen suggested. She responded in a riddle that Kaylub quickly pieced together. A puzzle under Upper Hogsfield?

“I know you’re there, Helen, come closer.” Helen walks over only to be attacked by Anne in the neck. Her maniacal laughter follows the two as Helen apparates the two back to her home.

“Are you okay?”

“You’re safe now, go find what you need. I’ll be alright, I just need-.” She apparates away leaving Kaylub alone. He’s worried but heads out following the suggestion of Anne.

“So this was the puzzle?” He finds himself in a cave under the hamlet and solves the Accio puzzle to find a note that was written by Richard for Anne. If she solved the puzzle then the two would follow the map on the ripped pages from the book and go on an adventure. If she never solved the puzzle, then she couldn’t have possibly killed him… then how did he die?

Kaylub exits the cave to see a young male ghost who looks surprised to see him.

“You solved my puzzle.”

“Are you Richard Jackdaw?”

“Yes, and you are?”

“I’m looking for the pages from the book you took.”

“I didn’t take them, Peeves ripped them out and I just picked them up. How’s Anne?”

“Don’t you know what happened to her?”

“No, I figured she ditched me, so I followed the map.”

“She’s in Azkaban for your murder.”

“Poor Anne! Oh, no. I have to make this right.”

“An ex-Auror named Helen was looking into the case, but first can you take me to where the pages are?”

“Of course, since you solved my puzzle. Meet me at the entrance of the Forbidden forest and we’ll get going.” Kaylub nodded as the ghost left.

“That’s the Hufflepuff patience for you. Are you ready to go?” Kaylub nodded as Richard smiled and the two traversed the forest together.

“If you don’t mind me asking, how did you die?”

“I felt a refreshing breeze on my neck and then found myself roaming the hamlet as a ghost. So you can understand why I’m not so keen on re-visiting the area.”

“I understand, thank you for your help.”

“Of course, just be wary of refreshing breezes. Follow the path and you’ll find the bird bath. Whisper the password and it should open. Adieu. Is that Latin or Greek?” Kaylub heard him whisper the question as he leaves. 

Following the path he finds himself at the birdbath only for goblins to arrive.

“Ranrok figured you’d come here.” They attacked first and Kaylub fought back, taking them down swiftly before entering the password into the birdbath and entering the cave.

“Why did it have to be spiders?” Kaylub questioned as he travelled through the massive cave finding hidden treasure along the way. He solved puzzles that were building a bridge and fought off two big spiders before entering a large hall.

“So this is how you died.” He finds Richard’s body with two axes separating his head from his body. He picks up the pages and enters the room to battle against Percival’s sentinels again and then against three large soldiers which were unaffected by his Accio due to their large size.

Kaylub panted in relief as he won after taking down the last one. And I thought the spiders were difficult. He got up and entered the room only to see an empty gate and the wisps of ancient magic calling him forward.

“Where are you taking me this time?” He asks as he enters.

He finds himself in a room with a large floor and four paintings which he activates with the ancient magic.

“You?” Kaylub looked to see that Percival had appeared in his painting. “You’re Professor Percival Rackham.”

“Yes, I am, I assume this means that you can also see the ancient magic.”

“Yes, like you and the other girl, I started Hogwarts in my fifth year.”

“Well then, I welcome you to the map chamber. Place the book in the centre.”

“I didn’t bring the book.” Percival looked shocked.

“Then we must pause our conversation till you retrieve the book.”

“Why is this place called the Map chamber?”

“That will become clear when you bring the book.”

“I’ll go get the book.” Perciaval nods as Kaylub takes his leave, finding himself back at Hogwarts again.

Chapter Text

With Professor Fig still away, I guess I should focus on my classes till he returns.

Kaylub goes to fulfil Professor Sharp’s Assignment. And finds himself brewing three potions before going to class. He talks to Professor Sharp who informs him of the benefits of having potions on hand while travelling and teaches him Depulso.

Madam Kogawa is the flying class Professor and Kaylub found himself enjoying the sky, but not so much the broom. He found himself following Everett Clopton as he gave a tour of the sky. When the two get back, they are both in trouble with Madam Kogawa who takes points from both houses.

“Chin up, that was some excellent flying.” Kogawa tells Kaylub who gives a small nod.

“If you want to get your own broom, try Spintwitches Sporting Needs, if you have the money for it,” Everett suggested as Kaylub was putting up the school broom he borrowed.

“I just might.”

“Have fun.” Kaylub nodded and left.

Kaylub got a broom from Hogsmeade as well as another assignment from Professor Sharp to use more potions. He also receives a letter from both Professor Weasley and Sebastian. First, let’s do this assignment.

Finishing another Potions assignment, Professor Sharp teaches Kaylub Diffindo.

“Don’t let this go to your head.” He speaks on the fact that Kaylub has talent and a drive which he complimented.

“Professor Weasley?” Kaylub was in the seventh-floor corridor by the tapestry of a wizard trying to teach trolls ballet. Meet away from prying eyes. He thought as he walked by only for a door to form in the wall and it to be filled with stuff.

“My deepest apologies, that Headmaster held me up and-” She notices the open door. “I see you’ve opened it on your own. Well, shall we?” The two enter.

“Professor, what is this place?”

“This is the room of requirement. Rarely anyone gets to find this place during their time here at Hogwarts, some never at all. Now where is that House-Elf?”

“House-elf?”

“Deek. He and I found this place together during my second-year. He thought this place might be helpful to you and I agree. Go on and explore while we wait for Deek.” Professor Weasley got immersed in her old school bag she found.

Kaylub ends up finding Deek after dodging a random item that the house-elf was looking at.

“Imagine the room as you need it and the room will do the rest.” Deek said as Professor Weasley arrived. Kaylub nodded and imagined a cleaner area and the room shifts itself to make that a reality.

Kaylub learns three new spells which he can only use inside the Room of Requirement and that this room is for his use in catching up. He sets up some pots and a brewing station before leaving to go find Sebastian.

“Well, look who arrived.”

“Hello, Sebastian, thank you again for everything that happened in the library.”

“Of course, I have my ways to avoid detention. What was it that you got?” Sebastian watched as Kaylub looked around.

“Maybe here isn’t the best place to talk.”

“Good thing I’ve wanted to show you somewhere away from prying eyes.” Kaylub tilted his head as Sebastian smiled and led Kaylub to the Undercroft.

“This place is where Ominis Gaunt and I go all the time along with my sister Anne to play Gobstones.” He smiles sadly. “What I’d give to lose to her again. You know, I’d think she’d like you. You should come see her, sometime.”

“I wouldn’t want to impose.”

“I’m sure she would love it. She’s been cooped up at home and a new face from Hogwarts would make her happy.”

“Okay.”

“Brilliant, I’ll send you a letter when I visit her again. Now, since we’re away from eyes, tell me what you couldn’t earlier.” And Kaylub does. He tells him about the ancient magic he can see and how the book was important.

“Wow, well then it would be best if you learn some more spells.” He teaches Kaylub Confringo. “Now you have to promise not to tell anyone about this place, and especially don’t tell Ominis.”

“I promise I won’t.”

“Good.” Sebastian smiled as Kaylub took his leave.

“Sebastian?” Ominis Gaunt’s cloudy blue eyes looked dead in Kaylub’s direction as he had just exited the Undercroft. “No, you’re new. How did you find out about this place?”

“I was just-”

“Don’t you lie to me!” Ominis snaps as Kaylub shrinks a bit. “I know Sebastian had to have told you. If you breathe a word of this to anyone, I will use my father who’s connected to the Headmaster to get rid of you.”

“I promise I won’t tell anyone. You should have a bit of faith in Sebastian.”

“Don’t tell me about my oldest friend. He gets into enough trouble without your help. He’s going to get an earful for this.” Kaylub watched Ominous enter the Undercroft and felt bad for Sebastian. I keep getting him into trouble. Luckily an Owl arrives bringing good news to Kaylub.

“Professor Fig, you’re back!” Kaylub entered Professor Fig’s office. 

“Ah yes, and I hope you have news for me?” Kaylub nodded and went on to explain everything that happened from the going to Azkaban, finding Jackdaw’s body, the missing pages, and finally the Map Chamber under Hogwarts.

“Well, you certainly were busier than I was. We simply must head there immediately.” Professor Fig followed Kaylub down to the chamber and placed the book onto the glowing pedestal where the lower floor turned into a map of the area around Hogwarts.

“I’m glad to see you return, young student.” Percival had returned to his frame and explained how things would go in order for Kaylub to learn about the ancient magic he possessed.

“We don’t have time. Ranrok, a goblin, seems to have found and possess some of the secrets.”

“This is worrisome. Then you must go to the first trial. While your mentor may go with you to the place, only you can complete the trial. Observe all you can.” He reveals the first location to be a tower north of Hogsmeade.

“When you’re ready, we’ll meet there.” Professor Fig informs Kaylub as the two leave.

Before Kaylub has a chance to go see the trial, he has double assignments from both Galick and Kogawa. Galick requires him to grow plants to learn Wingardium Leviosa and Flipendo, while Kogawa wants him to practise flying to learn Glacius and Arresto Momentum, Once he finishes the four assignments, he sets out to meet with Professor Fig.

“Hello, Professor, is something wrong?” Kaylub asked as he arrived.

“Goblins up ahead. I believe it would be best to sneak in so we can learn why they’re here.” Kaylub agreed with him and the two snuck in using Disillusionment charm to hide and take down the goblins quietly, but that only lasted a minute before the reinforcements arrived and Kaylub found himself using Glacius and Confringo to handle the new arrival of goblins.

“What names are they looking into?” Professor Fig asked more to himself as they had found direct orders from Ranrok to investigate the tower.

“I assume the commotion outside was about the goblins?” Percival asked as the two had reached the top of the tower to find him in another portrait.

“Yes, it seems they knew about the tower, but not to whom it belonged to.”

“This is most concerning, but that’s not your problem. Go back down to the entrance and you shall feel a flow of ancient magic. Remember to focus on what you see as you go through the trial.” Percival spoke to Kaylub. “We will see you back in the Map Chamber once you finish.” Kaylub nodded and set off.

He found himself solving puzzles with gateways and battling the sentinels again, finding them difficult to take down, but not painful to fight. At least it was that way before he went up against the Guardian, who was the same massive size as the one in Gringotts. It was a rough fight, but he managed to pull through using the spells he knew and using the ancient magic as well.

“Now, let’s see what you have for me.” He looked inside the pensive and found out more information on Isidora Morganach. How she wished to take away her father's pain and how she became a Professor along with meeting Professor Charles Rookwood. Rookwood?

He returns to the map chamber and sees Professor Rookwood arrive. The four converse as the trials are put on pause while Rookwood and Rackam discuss the goblin situation. Professor Fig recommended trying to figure out what Ranrok was up to, but also focus on studies. And with that the two leave.

Chapter Text

Fall arrives at Hogwarts, and with it, Kaylub goes to his first Beasts class. Professor Howin was the Professor of Beasts class. There he meets Poppy Sweeting, a fellow Hufflepuff with a love for creatures. The two bond as she teaches Kaylub how to care for a Puffskien named Gerald and a couple of Sneezles.

“I’m glad to see that we are alike. I wish to show you something.” Poppy smiled brightly, taking Kaylub’s hand and dragging him to a clearing. “You’ll love her.” She steps away and whistles.

Kaylub was beginning to worry when a flapping of wings caught his attention. He looks up to see a white Hippogriff with light blue tipped feathers coming in for a landing.

“Go on, greet her. Her name is Highwing.”

Kaylub walks up to the Hippogriff and bows waiting to hear the other bow back and when he does he smiles.

“Wow, I’ve never seen her accept someone so quickly. You can pet and feed her now if you want.” Kaylub does so with a smile.

“You’re really pretty.” he says as he pets her who nuzzles into him. Kaylub backs off as Highwing wants to take off.

“I worry about her with the ever growing amount of Poachers around. I worry I won’t be able to save her next time.”

“I’ll help if I can.”

“Oh that would be lovely. I’ll look into their recent activities as well.” With that the two go their separate ways.

On his way to complete the assignment from Professor Onai, Kaylub collected what she required. Returning he learns Descendo.

But before he goes to bed, he’s called over by Mr. Moon who is the caretaker of Hogwarts.

“You called?”

“Ah yes, you’re the new student I heard about. Could I ask you to do something for me? You see that statue next to me?”

“The one of the Demiquise?” Kaylub watched as Mr. Moon shuddered at the name.

“Yes, well, do you see how it’s holding something? Go pick it up, please.” Kaylub goes and gets the moonstone and the statue disappears. “Ah, thank you. You see, the reason I asked you for help is that I had noticed these buggy eyed statues around and required help getting rid of them.”

“Why?”

“I’ll tell you as we walk.” Mr. Moon starts to walk away followed by Kaylub. “You know Boggerts, shape-shifters, they turn into whatever you fear the most. If you get where I’m going with this. I’ve always feared them since I ran into one as a boy in Korea. It seems that someone, or some people, saw me deal with the Boggart in Hogsmeade and decided to joke around with these statues.”

“Why me?”

“Well, I heard that same day you dealt with Trolls in Hogsmeade and you seem to be seen as fearless. I figured if these statues start to disappear, the troublemaker or makers will show themself.” The two stop outside the faculty area. “I can’t do my job with these statues around so I’ll teach you how to get into places and you can get rid of them for me.”

“Won’t I get in trouble?”

“Not if you’re not caught, so I recommend using the Disillusionment charm.”

“Okay.”

“What a kind gentleperson you are.” Kaylub learns Alohomora. “There’s one in the Prefect bathroom and one in the Hospital wing.” Kaylub went off.

He avoided Prefects and Professors alike trying not to eavesdrop on Professor Weasley and Sharp talking in a hall as well as Professor Garlick and Hecet in the Hospital wing.

“I got the stones.”

“Ah, thank you. I believe if we get rid of more of these statues the truth will reveal themselves. But they’re only able to be collected at night. During the day they’re solid and you can’t get the stone. So keep the Disillusionment charm handy.” The two then go their separate ways.

Entering the Three Broomsticks the next day, Kaylub goes to talk to Sirona.

“Hello again, how can I help you?”

“I was wondering if I could talk to the goblin you were speaking with when I came here the first time.”

“Ah, Lodgok. My friend is, respectfully, hesitant towards Wizardkind. Tell him I sent you and it should work. You should be able to find him in Hog’s Head.” 

“Thank you.”

“Send him my greetings.” Kaylub left and went over to the Hog’s Head finding the goblin sitting at a table alone.

“Hello, Sirona sends her greetings.” Kaylub took a seat with the goblin who looked at him with curious eyes.

“Well, if Sirona sent you, then I might as well hear you out.”

“I need to know what Ranrok is planning and I was wondering if you could help.”

“I could, but I had a falling out of Ranrok, but if you help me retrieve a treasure to the goblins I might be able to reconcile and we can help each other.”

“What do you need me to get?” Kaylub gets a shocked look.

“Quick to trust, aren’t we?”

“I don’t see why I shouldn’t trust you if Sirona trusts you.”

“Seems we’ll be able to work together.” Lodgok starts to inform Kaylub of a helmet made by a goblin that was taken by a witch known as the collector. He wanted him to go into the tomb and get it back out of her sarcophagus. 

“Lead the way.”

Lodgok leads the way to the Collector’s Tomb.

Kaylub entered alone, travelling through three puzzles and battling Inferi before finding a dead Ashwinder instead of the helmet.

“I found a dead Ashwinder instead of the helmet.”

“No! Rookwood must have sent them to try to get in good with Ranrok. I saw a camp up ahead. That must be where they’re holding the helmet.”

“I’ll go get it.”

“I’ll be waiting.”

Kaylub set out to go deal with the camp only to find that a troll has decided to do the hard work for him. He sneaks around and finds the helmet and quickly leaves as some more Ashwinder arrive. He quickly jumps over a cliff into the water below to escape before they could follow him.

“I got the helmet.”

“Look at this. It’s beautiful. I’ll be sure to inform you of what I find out about his search.”

“Search?”

“I-It’s just a hunch really. Don’t tell anyone about our arrangement. Plenty will find it strange.” Kaylub nodded and returned to Hogwarts after receiving many owls. One was from Professor Weasley talking about how Deek could help with his Beast studies.

The two end up going out and collecting creatures in a Nap-sac which is used to catch and safely store creatures. Returning to the room of requirement he thinks up a place for the creatures to roam free and a Vivarium appears allowing him to set them free without worry about them running wild in the main area. He had a Puffskien, Mooncalf, and Jobberknoll all roaming free and used the peacefully collected items to craft better enchantments into his clothes. 

“You sent me an owl about your uncle?” Kaylub asked going up to Adelaide, who was a fellow Hufflepuff.

“Yes, you see he normally sends me letters as he travels, you see he’s a metal worker who works with Goblins, but I haven’t heard from him in a while. Professor Weasley tells me to have patience, but he’s the only family I have left.”

“Do you know where he is?”

“He normally sends me a letter with a map of his location so I know where he’s at. This was the last location he sent me.”

“I’ll go take a look.”

‘Oh thank you. I’m so worried about him.”

Kaylub set off to the last known location.

When he arrived at the camp on the outskirts of the Forbidden Forest, he found that it was filled with Goblins. He snuck in and swiftly handled the Goblins without being caught before finding Adelaide’s uncle’s journal and a map which led to a set of ruins. Guess this is where they took him.

He sets out to go find the man who tried to trade with Ranrok’s lot and snuck past the goblins guarding the ruins and entering Korrow ruins and continues to sneak around finding a wand in a boiler room after taking down a large group of Goblins including one that looked stronger than the rest.

“Adelaide’s uncle?” Kaylub asked after hearing a man call out from within the only cell that had a door on it. He had found the room beyond the kitchen after taking care of all the Goblins within the area. 

“Hello? Oh, good a friendly voice. The cell door is enchanted. I know how to open it, but the Goblins took my wand.”

“I have it right here, sir.” Kaylub passed it through the small gap in the door.

“Oh, thank Merlin.” The door starts to open. “I was trapped in there for so long, I think they forgot I was there. Thank you,” The man then noticed Kaylub. “You’re a student. It’s too dangerous for a student here!”

“I’ve already taken care of the Goblins.”

“Well, that's certainly something. I was sorely mistaken working with Ranrok’s lot. How did you find me?”

“Your niece sent me, she’s really worried about you.”

“And I, her. I will surely learn from my mistake and go to her at once.”

“Before you go, you can understand Gobbledygook?”

“Yes, and I heard quite a tale about Ranrok himself.” Kaylub waited patiently for him to continue. “You see, Ranrok loved dragons and found an illegal dragon ring by wizards. He wanted to join and waited for his opportunity to introduce himself. That moment came when the leader dropped his wand and Ranrok rushed to return it. The wizard, seeing a Goblin holding his wand, lashed out and beat Ranrok within an inch of his life. Now he sees all Wizardkind as cruel.”

“Thank you.”

“A small way to repay you for saving me.” He then apparates out as Kaylub leaves as well seeing an Owl from Sebastian arrive.

Kaylub arrives in Feldcroft to meet with Sebastian to visit his sister. 

“Glad to see you took my invitation.” Sebastian smiled.

“After all you’ve done for me, it’s the least I can do.”

“Well, we should go see her.” Sebastian led the way to their home and entered with Kaylub behind him. 

He sneaks up to his sister who was sitting at the table and spooks her, making her smile and laugh before presenting her with a plant, which their uncle immediately takes. His anger shocks Kaylub as he snaps at Sebastian about the curse that Anne has being incurable causing the two to fight. Anne then has a pain attack which catches both the families attention as Solomon, their uncle, tells Sebastian to leave. The two leave.

“I need a minute.” Kaylub let him walk off before going to go talk to Solomon.

“You know, hope isn’t a bad thing.” Kaylub says softly to the man who was now outside.

“There is no cure for the curse she’s dealing with. You should keep him doing what he should do, not what he wants to do.” He snaps at Kaylub who leaves to go see Anne.

“I’m sorry you had to see that. Those two always fight whenever Sebastian comes home so this place isn’t much of a rest.”

“He’s very hopeful about helping you.”

“I can feel it. This curse isn’t curable. I just wish he’d live his life. I’m glad to have met you, but I should go rest.” Kaylub understands when he should leave.

“How are you feeling?” Kaylub asks Sebastian who was mumbling to himself.

“Why don’t they get it? My uncle is an ex-auror, but he doesn’t do anything to help. Come on, I’ll show you where Anne was cursed.”

Kaylub follows Sebastian up to a set of ruins where a group of Goblins had set up camp. The two sneak in and deal with some of the loyalists before a slip up has them all out battling in the open and taking them down.

“Ok, that was a bit more than I thought. We should look around. If I can figure out what she was cursed with, I might be able to find a cure.” Sebastian was deep in his own thoughts as the two then looked around.

I know this place. Kaylub was looking at the well and the view of Feldcroft.

“I’ve seen this place before!”

“Where?” Sebastian asked as the two were in the ruins of the home.

“The pensive I found in the Restricted section.” Kaylub noticed Sebastian’s confusion. “Let me explain.” He proceeds to tell him everything since he trusts Sebastian fully, but without names. “I don’t fully understand everything myself, but that’s it.”

“Do you think it could have been this ancient magic that cursed my sister?”

“I didn’t sense any ancient magic around her.”

“That doesn’t mean there isn’t a chance that it could be, because, as you said, you don’t know everything about it.” Kaylub nodded, understanding Sebastian’s reasoning. Kaylub notices notes from Isidora Morganach detailing her travels and concerns over people’s pain.

Kaylub finds a mirror-gate like the one he found in Gringotts and the two find themselves back in the Undercroft.

“You can’t tell Ominis about this.”

“I won’t, though I do need to go talk to him about something else.” Kaylub tilts his head. “It’s about a Scriptorium that Salizar Slytherin had here at the school. I’ll tell you about it later.” Sebastian waves as he leaves.

“Why are we here?” Kaylub asked Natty as they were at Falbarton Castle.

“I followed Harlow here. I saw him in the Hog’s Head reading a letter that, from what I could see, was signed and had the seal of Rookwood. If I could get that letter it could be just what Officer Singer needs to arrest him.”

“Okay, but we should be quiet.” Kaylub turns invisible as he finds a way into the gatehouse and opens the gate for Natty. The two head to where the big door is only for it to open with a Hippogriff trying to escape.

“Highwing?”

“You know that Hippogriff?” Kaylub nodded as the poachers managed to subdue her and started to take her away as Kaylub got up with Natty.

“I’ll go after the letter, you get the Hippogriff.” Kaylub nodded as the gate started to close. “Now’s our only chance!” She manages to slip in, but Kaylub doesn’t make it.

“I’ll find another way around. Be careful.” Without a response, Kaylub goes up to the roof, sneaking around and saving two Puffskeins and a Nifflers. There he manages to find and rescue Highwing and a second Hippogriff.

“Don’t worry, I got you girl.” He pets her as he unlocks the two right as Natty arrives with yelling following her.

“We should go.” She wasn’t able to get on the second Hippogriff before it flew off so Highwing picks her up in her claws and drops her off on the back of the other Hippogriff as Harlow tries to kill them with Avada Kedavra.

Feeling the rush of air in his hair as he rode on the back of Highwing was so much better than riding a broom in Kaylub’s opinion as they soon returned to Hogwarts.

 “I’ll go deliver this to Officer Singer, wait for my Owl for more.”

Chapter Text

On his way to Astronomy, Kaylub overhears the end of an argument between Ominis and Sebastian.

“Sebastian?”

“Ah, Kaylub, I was just trying to get Ominus to tell me more about the Scriptorium, but he believes it has something to do with the Dark Arts so he wants nothing to do with it.”

“The Dark Arts are dangerous, I agree with him.”

“There’s more to them than that, and the Gaunts know better than anyone.”

“I should go.” Kaylub’s arm was caught by Sebastian.

“Keep an eye out for my owl when I do find out about the Scriptorium.” His eyes pleaded for Kaylub to agree.

“Okay.” He then heads to class.

In Astronomy, Kaylub gets a telescope from Amit, a Ravenclaw student who’s enthusiastic about Astronomy. Kaylub enjoys the stars even with the cool fall breeze blowing.

He goes to the Room of Requirement to receive a new Vivarium, a beach one, and a request to go find Deek’s friend, Tobb, in a spider infested cave.

Why did it have to be spiders? Kaylub questioned as he entered the cave to find remnants of the house elf, but not finding the elf himself until after beating the Acromantula. 

“Poor Tobb.” Kaylub had found the elf dead in a hidden place. He felt bad for the poor elf and left the cave to go inform Deek of what happened to his friend.

Before he returns to Hogwarts, he receives a letter from Natty and meets her in Lower Hogsfield.

“This is where Mr. Bickle lives.” She says when Kaylub arrived. The two find Mrs. Bickle crying and come to learn that her husband has been killed by Harlow and her son, Archie, is missing.

“I promise, we’ll find your son.” The two set out to Archie’s hideout only to find it ransacked. Kaylub uses Revielio and the two follow his tracks.

As they pass a group of Thestrals, Kaylub learns that Natty can see them too due to witnessing her father’s death.

They find that Harlow had caught up to Archie and enter an Ashwinder’s base to find him locked in a cage.

“Archie, we’re here to help you.” Kaylub whispers as he unlocks the cage.

“Thank you.”

“We know a safe way home.” The two escort Archie home where he’s reunited with his mother and the two embrace.

She warns the two to stay away from Harlow. But Harlow’s already after them.

“I’ll look into Mr. Bickle’s friends. Keep an eye out for my letter.” Kaylub nods as Natty leaves.

Time to tell Deek.

Returning to Hogwarts, Kaylub goes to Deek and informs him of his friend's fate.

“I hope you wished Tobb’s Deek’s best.”

“I’m sorry Deek, but Tobb couldn’t hold out against the spiders.”

“Oh, no, poor Tobb.” Kaylub gives him time to mourn his old friend.

While tending to the creatures, Kaylub receives a letter from Sebastian.

He meets him outside Slytherin’s entrance.

“Any news with Ominis?”

“I told him we can’t avoid dark arts forever. The more we know the better we can prepare for it. Only a Gaunt knows the location of the Scriptorium. And he’s being stubborn.”

“Maybe I could talk to him?”

“You?! I wish you luck. He’s stubborn as I said. I’ll lead you to where he is and I’ll leave you to it.” Though there was a hint of an underlying anger to Sebastian’s tone. Like the idea of leaving the two alone was bad. He shows Kaylub where Ominis is and waits as Kaylub goes up to the other Slytherin male.

“What are you doing here?” Despite being blind, Ominis had a way of knowing that Kaylub was before him. “What are you and Sebastian up to now?”

“I just wanted to apologise for lying to you about the hideout. Sebastian showed it to me so I can have a place to practise my spells to catch up to the rest of the fifth-years.”

“That does make sense. I’m sorry for being brash. Sebastian’s been pestering me about something lately.”

“Oh, you mean the Scriptorium or something like that?”

“He told you about that too?” Ominis sighs. “My favourite aunt, Noctura, told me about it. She thought a lot like me on matters of the Dark Arts. She wanted to prove to the family that there was more to Salizar than blood-supremacy. But then she disappeared.”

“I understand, but maybe we can honour her by going in.”

“Or history will repeat itself.”

“She went in alone, we’ll go together.” Kaylub hears Ominis sigh.

“You managed to convince me. Call Sebastian and I’ll tell you how to get in.” Ominis says as Kaylub smiles.

“Sebastisan, you can come over!”

“Really, it was that simple. I practically begged you.”

“You never said what I needed to hear.” Ominis seemed to look at Kaylub as Sebastian glared slightly at Ominis. “It seems to work in threes. Try lighting the three braziers.”

Kaylub does so and the three enter the corridor.

“Ominis, I found a journal entry, signed by Noctura Gaunt.”

“Gaunt? Ominis your family was here.” Sebastian looks over at him as he waits by the closed door.

“I know, she was my aunt.”

“And you didn’t tell me?”

“It says there’s many challenges ahead.” Kaylub butted in.

“That’s why I said this was dangerous. She kept in contact with my father before she disappeared.” Ominis wasn’t a fan of this.

Kaylub notices the rubble on the floor and uses Reparo. It makes a relief of a woman talking to a snake.

“It’s a woman looking at a snake.” Sebastian says.

“That must be the voice I hear.” Ominis says. “It’s ancient-sinister.”

“You hear voices?” Kaylub walked over to Ominis.

“I’m a parselmouth-meaning I can talk to snakes. Nearly all known Parselmouths are descendants of Salizar Slythern.”

“I wish I could talk to snakes.”

“You wouldn’t want to speak parseltongue. It’s mostly associated with dark wizards. I hope you’re having second thoughts.”

“None at all.” Kaylub smiles at Ominis who sighs.

“I haven’t spoken parseltongue in a long time and I hoped never to again. Give me a moment.” Kaylub steps back as Ominis faces the door and starts to speak parseltongue and it starts to open.

“Ominis, the door’s opening. You possess a rare gift.” Ominis’ ears turn pink at the praise.

“Between the two of you. I feel a bit left out.”

“What do you mean ‘between the two of you’?” Ominis faces Sebastian with a question as Kaylub looks at him with worry.

“I- never mind.”

The three go through the door, and it shuts behind them.

“It looks like a maze. And the door behind us has closed.”

“That’s the point. Salizar wanted to test those who entered.” The three solve snake puzzles to unlock the gates that lie ahead as Kaylub finds more and more of Noctura’s journals where she talks about pain and the challenges. But she also talks about wanting a different path for the family.

“She was the best person in the world.” Ominis says as Kaylub tells him of another letter.

They enter the final gate where it shuts behind them and Kaylub walks over to the door which has a bunch of tortured faces that scream at them and sees a skeleton. He picks up the note as Sebastian examines the door. The words ‘Crucio’ appear on the floor.

“Ominis, this skeleton is Noctura and the note is about an unforgivable curse.”

“This is where she died, and this is where we’ll die. I should have never listened to either of you.” Ominis was panicking as he paced by the gate in the back.

“Ominis, don’t worry. I know what to do.” Sebastian looks over at Kaylub who looks from Ominis to Sebastian. “The tortured faces on the wall, ‘crucio’ etched into the stone, it’s obvious that someone needs to cast the Cruciatus curse on someone. Noctura died because she had no one to cast it on. Ominis knows more about the spell. You seem to be in Ominis’ favour-will you ask him about this?”

“You know him better than I do.” Kaylub watches Sebastian sigh.

“Wish me luck.” He goes over to where Ominis was still pacing back near the gate and tries to convince him to cast the spell, but he refuses as he won’t be able to mean the harm behind the curse.

“It seems he doesn’t have any intentions of casting the Cruciatus curse ever again.” Kaylub says as Sebastian returns. The two weren’t talking quietly.

“I can’t believe it. Like dying here is better than casting a blasted curse. I can teach you how to cast it and you can use it on me or I can cast it on you.”

“Wait, you didn’t tell me you knew how to cast it.”

“That’s because I’m not positive that I know how. But it’s better than following in Noctura’s footsteps. What’ll it be?”

“I can handle the pain, cast it on me.” Kaylub can see the hesitance on Sebastian’s face so he takes his hand that was clenching his wand tightly. “I promise I can take it. We have to do this to get out, remember.” Sebastian nods and takes a few steps back.

“I shan’t forget this.” he aims at Kaylub who smiles at him. “Crucio.” 

The red beam hits Kaylub as he doubles over from the pain. Waves of red come off him as the door absorbs the pain Kaylub goes through. His groans of pain leave both Ominis and Sebastian worried as the two ask him if he’s okay, but he can’t hear them over the throbbing in his ears.

Soon the pain subsides and a dull ache persists as Kaylub stands again. The door vanishes as Sebastian looks over at Kaylub.

“I’m fine. We got the door open.” He gives Sebastian a smile as the taller of the two sighs.

“Yeah, we did. Here we are, Salizar Slytherin’s Scriptorium.” He walks in as Ominis and Kaylub follow.

“Ominis, are you okay?” Kaylub asked as the two were more by the door.

“I should be asking you that, since you are the one who took the Cruciatus curse.”

“I could handle that amount of pain if it meant our survival. I’m sorry for bringing you down here and for your aunt.” A hand was placed on his head as Kaylub looked up at Ominis. His hair is soft. Ominis starts pelting the shorter male softly which actually helps Kaylub calm down.

“It’s okay. I’m glad to have finally got an answer to her disappearance. Now can we find a way out? I believe you need rest.” Kaylub blushed softly at the concern.

“I’ll be sure to find one.” Kaylub steps out of his hand, already missing his warmth, and goes looking for an exit and finds a spellbook which he gives to Sebastian.

“I think I found the way out.” Kaylub calls as he looks at the statue in the back.

“Best news I’ve heard all day.” And with that, the three exit the scriptorium.

“We swear never to use Dark Magic from this moment on.” Ominis states as the three were back before the Slytherin Dormitory. 

“I understand. I’m truly sorry about your aunt.” Sebastian says as Kaylub sighs still feeling the dull ache of the curse.

“You should rest up now, Kaylub. Taking an Unforgivable Curse like that deserves rest.” Ominis was looking at Kaylub with concern etched into his brow.

“I agree with Ominis on this. Go get some rest.” Sebastian gently ruffles Kaylub’s hair as Kaylub relaxes into the touch. He looks up at Sebastian.

“I will, you two as well.” He gives a smile, and with that the three part ways.

Waking the next morning, Kaylub went to the Map room to meet with Professor Fig. He informs him of his meeting with Lodgok and how that transpired with hopes of him learning more about what Ranrok is searching for.

“Your next trial will be at my former residence. Rookwood castle.” Rookwood pipes in as he informs the two of what he’s been hearing as he’s travelled to his portrait at the castle.

“I fear to inform you that Victor Rookwood, your descendant, is a dark wizard in legion with Ranrok.”

“My descendant, a dark wizard. Then we have no time to waste. Not only is your trial there, but a great source of magic is there as well. I wish we had the leisure of time, but you must hurry to my castle and find my portrait.”

“I’m on my way.”

“Then we shall set off.” With that, Kaylub and Professor Fig leave.

Arriving at the castle was easy, getting in was another matter entirely.

The two sneak in through a hole in the back and notice Ranrok arguing with Victor.

“I didn’t know you’d try digging up half the country.”

“I wouldn’t have to do that if you brought me the child.”

“We wouldn’t need the child if you hadn’t sent a bloody dragon after the container I pulled strings in the ministry to acquire.”

“You shouldn’t have let them board the carrier. If it got to that infernal castle we would have lost it.”

“I allowed you to dig up under my family home in search of the stores of magic.”

“You ‘allowed’? I’m only keeping you around because you’re a descendant of a Keeper in the chance you become useful. Unless you want another demonstration of the power that could be yours, get me that child.” The two part ways with tensions still high.

“Rookwood says you’ll learn more after you finish the trial.”

“Then we best get into that castle.” Kaylub wanted to sneak past the guards, but more arrived and spotted them so it was an all out fight.

Using Confringo and Glacius, Kaylub was able to fight off many of them with Professor Fig also handling those that were trying to attack.

The two enter the castle and Kaylub solves a similar puzzle to what he saw in the cave where Jackdaw died. Going further in, the two head down to the cellar where they find the store of magic, but it seems empty. It still swirled with red light, but the two found Charles Rookwood’s portrait in the room nearby.

“Sir, it seems Ranrok had opened some sort of container and was talking about stores of magic. He also knows about the Keepers.” Kaylub said as the two stood before the portrait.

“Then this is more dire than expected. You must complete the trial. Professor Fig must leave you.” He shows Kaylub the way and he enters the trial.

Travelling through, Kaylub solves the puzzles presented before him and battles the sentinels using their own weapons against them. He battles the Guardian, recalling his previous battle against it. He dodges efficiently and it takes a while but he does win.

“Let’s see what the Keepers have to show me this time.” He looks into the Pensive. 

The memory was of the four Keepers visiting Isadora who shows how she can take away someone’s pain. She demonstrates on her father who hasn’t spoken since her brother's death. Afterwards, he thanks her. Percival on the other hand is concerned about the magic that seeps from the man into the ground..

I could take away Anne’s pain. 

Kaylub returns to the map room where he is praised for coming back alive and in one piece. He learns that it was pain that Isadora pulled from her father, but he has to complete more trials before he can learn more. This could help Anne.

He meets the holder of the third trial, prior Headmistress of Hogwarts, Niamh Fitzgerald, who informs him that it will take some time to prepare the third trial area.

“You should focus on honing your magic while she prepares.” Kaylub nods and heads off.

Chapter Text

Soon, Winter arrives and with it the cold weather. Kaylub learns Bombarda from Professor Howlin after attending Care of Magical Beast’s class.

He also learns how to breed the Magical creatures he’s rescued due to Deek and gains a new Vivarium due to saving Thesterals.

It’s as he’s finishing setting up the pens in the other Vivariums, that he receives a letter from Sebastian.

“What did you find in that spellbook?” Kaylub asked as he entered the Undercroft.

“After getting past the difficult sections. Salizar Slytherin encouraged the teaching of dark arts, he wanted students to understand them rather than fear them.”

“That could explain why Crucio had to be used.” Kaylub sees Sebastian flinch at the mention.

“Yes, but he also speaks of a relic that could reverse dark curses.”

“You think this relic could save Anne?” Kaylub wanted to tell him about what he learned in a recent trial, but he also didn’t want to get Sebastian’s hopes up in case he couldn’t actually use it.

“We shouldn’t tell anyone about this, especially Ominis.”

“I agree, it would be best to leave him out of this.” There seems to be relief in Sebastian’s eyes hearing that Kaylub agrees.

“I’ll be sure to send an Owl when I find out more. Remember, keep this quiet from Ominis.”

“Keep what from Ominis?” The two turn to see Ominis by the gate to the Undercroft.

“Ominis, we were about to go get some fresh air, care to join?”

“I heard everything, Sebastian. You promised to stay away from the dark arts.”

“I said I understood. I won’t stop looking for a way to help Anne. Excuse me.” He then leaves, but not without a glance over at Kaylub.

“Ominis, Sebastian means we-”

“I know what I heard. Going after that relic is dangerous. Sebastian doesn’t even realise it, but he’s as irresponsible and reckless now as his parents were years ago. It’s why they died.” Kaylub looks up at Ominis in shock.

“I heard they died, but not what happened.”

“They were Professors, practically glued to their books. Would always read in the cellar. One night, while reading in the cellar, they collapsed. Anne and Sebastian were upstairs when they heard a crash. They rushed downstairs and found their parents on the ground. The candles had given off an undetectable toxin.”

“What a horrible story.”

“That’s why I want him to stay away from all this. I‘ve already practically lost Anne. I can’t lose Sebastian too. And I’ve only just gotten to care about you.” His ears were pink as he whispered that last part too faint for Kaylub to really hear. “Please. avoid anything to do with that spellbook.”

“Some of the things he referenced do worry me.”

“I’m glad you agree. Please inform me if he does anything going forward involving that book. It would mean a lot.”

“I will.” He starts to leave only to be grabbed by his arm.

“And, I’m glad to see that you’re doing better. I hadn’t had a chance to tell you that.”

“Thank you, Ominis.” He lets Kaylub go who receives a letter from Poppy.

Kaylub meets Poppy at night to discuss what she’s heard about the poachers.

“Did you know that Victor Rookwood has ordered his man to capture you on site? Does this have anything to do with them coming after you in the Three Broomsticks after the Troll incident?”

“Most likely, but I’m more interested in what’s been going on with the Poachers.”

“Right, does the name “Horntail Hall’ mean anything to you?”

“I’m afraid not.”

“Well I heard the poachers mention it only twice and then one of them talking about how much gold they made off it, no doubt at the expense of innocent creatures. I was hoping to go looking around. If you ever meet my Gran, this trip never happened.”

“Your secret’s safe with me.”

“I usually tell my gran everything. She’s my best friend after Highwing that is. But she knows how I feel about the poachers. She believes I’ll do something… ill-advised.”

“Whatever gave her that idea.” Kaylub says with a smirk as Poppy smiles.

“Follow me.”

The two travel and encounter centaurs who look down on the two form a higher ledge.

“What are you two doing?” They ready their bows.

“We mean you no harm. We are simply passing through.” Kaylub speaks up as the two look at him.

“We grow weary of those who are like you working in league with the poachers.”

“We’re not with the poachers. If anything, we’re hoping to stop them.”

“For your sake that has better be true. We’re quickly losing patience with your kind in the forest.” They take their leave.

“I’ve seen some poachers talking to villagers in Hogsmeade, maybe it has something to do with that.” Poppy responded to the look Kaylub gave her.

The two continue seeing a Dugbug being more aggressive than usual as it drags a deer into the water.

“It might have something to do with the water.” Kaylub brings up as the two discuss the encounter.

“That’s strange.” Poppy brings up as the two arrive at an empty poacher’s camp. “We should look around for signs.” Kaylub nodded and looked around, noticing the traps and pelts were still there. Even the fire still had smoke in it, indicating that they were there not too long ago. Kaylub then notices Goblin metal.

“I found signs of the poachers, but also something Goblin-made.”

“I found Goblin armour. But what would they have in common?” Poppy asked as Kaylub shrugged.

“We should continue looking around, but we should be careful. Merlin knows what’s going on here.” The two travel not too far from the camp.

“Look, Poachers.” The two see them lower down and Kaylub instantly casts Disillusionment. Poppy follows his lead.

“We do this quietly.” Kaylub whispers as he takes the lead. Sneaking around and using Petrificus Totalus, the two take down the guards before the tent.

“Let’s go inside.” Kaylub suggests as the two sneak in.

The two enter to see that they have a dragon fighting ring going on.

“This is Horntail hall. It’s a dragon fighting ring. No wonder the poachers have been in Hogsmeade. Probably taking bets and spreading the news. The centaurs have every right to be disgusted with wizardkind.” Poppy has so much disgust in her voice.

“There has to be more dragons here. Let’s go save them.”

“But be discreet. You especially can’t be seen here.” Kaylub nods and the two sneak around.

They overhear that the poachers and the goblins are working together and soon find a dragon struggling against the poachers.

“They must have only recently captured her. She’s putting up quite the fight.”

“But not an even one. Let’s even the odds shall we.” Poppy smiles at Kaylub’s suggestion as the two sneak down to help the white dragon.

“Is that a dragon egg?” Poppy asks as Kaylub had already unlocked the cage and pulled out the egg.

“Let’s go help the dragon now.” he gets a nod.

The two attempt a sneak attack, but that only lasts for a moment before an all out battle begins. 

“It’s the one we’re looking for, and they brought a friend.” An Animagus arrives and the two battle her and the others that arrive with her.

Kaylub frees the white dragon. He doesn’t hesitate as the dragon starts to break free from her chains. More poachers arrive and Kaylub prepares to fight them, but then the dragon is free and she eats the first poacher. The others attack the dragon as Kaylub protegos with Poppy to avoid the dragon's fire breath. She’s beautiful. Kaylub noticed as he looked up to see the tarp above.

“Incendio.” he lights it on fire, allowing the moonlight in which gets the dragon's attention and she flies out as the tent starts to burn.

“This way,” Kaylub takes Poppy’s hand and drags her towards the exit.

Once back at the poachers camp, they take a breath.

“That was a Hebridean Black, the egg must be hers. She might not have known they took it from her or she wouldn’t have left without it.”

“I’ll hold onto the egg for now. I’ll find a way to return it to her.”

“This night is full of unexpected events. I wasn't expecting to encounter a dragon, or break up a dragon fighting ring. And the poachers saw us. Which cannot be good.” Kaylub places a hand on her shoulder.

“We should head back to the castle then.” She nods and the two head back.

“Kaylub, come with me!” Natty takes Kaylub by the arm and drags him towards the Divination classroom after breakfast.

“Um, where are we going?”

“I believe my mother has found out about what we’ve done and I believe that having you around will lessen her lecture.” It didn’t.

“I was hoping to speak to you alone from my letter.” She glances at Kaylub

“Your letter mentioned you spotting an ‘unusual creature’ near hogsmeade. That could have meant anything.”

“You know what it meant, Natsai. You are not allowed to visit Hogsmeade at all in the near future.”

“What?!”

“My gazelle, you should not ‘meddle’ in dangerous situations.”

“If someone had ‘meddled’ back home, father would still be with us!” There's a moment of silence and Kaylub wonders if he should really be here.

“I have class, I hope your friend will be able to speak reason to you.” She looks at me before leaving.

“Unbelievable.”

“She called you ‘gazelle’ is that a term of endearment where you’re from?”

“No, I am an Animagus. That is how I have managed to spy on Rookwood and Harlow.”

“What an incredible ability.”

“I love transforming, but mother doesn’t. She says that a rare creature– like a gazelle, is dangerous in an area where poachers have become more prevalent. She has said she has seen tragedy befall me in my gazelle form. But she has used her sight to control me too many times. I no longer believe it.”

“Perhaps you should heed her warning and stay away from Hogsmeade. I-”

“You did not run away after learning that Rookwood, Harlow, and Ranrok were after you. I am following your lead. My mother cannot know where I am all the time.” She has a devious smirk as Kaylub sighs seeing as he won’t be able to reason with her.

“Just be extra careful.”

“I will. Sorry I dragged you into that awkward conversation.” Kaylub shrugged as the two went their separate ways.

Kaylub finds the two field pages that Professor Weasley wanted him to find before class and goes to learn Transfiguration.

He learns about transfiguration and turns a marble into a moth.

After class, Professor Weasley asks him questions.

“The extra assignments were very helpful for catching up.”

“I’m glad to hear that you are doing well in classes, despite your extracurricular activities. Tell me, does your recent visit to an ex-auror have anything to do with Professor Fig?”

“No, I had gotten a request from a portrait to help out his descendant with a case.”

“I see, well your coursework and field guide pages are more than enough to help prepare you for your O.W.L.’s which you will be taking at the end of the year and should be your focus.”

“Of course, Professor.” He leaves.

Chapter Text

Kaylub receives a letter from Lodgok asking him to meet him at a goblin mine in the south and to bring someone who spoke Gobbledegook.

Doesn’t Amit know Gobbledegook?

He finds the Ravenclaw in the Astronomy tower.

“Hello Amit, do I recall correctly that you speak Gobbledegook?”

“I do. Does this have something to do with the Goblin I saw you with in Hogsmeade?”

“Yes.” Kaylub then explained that it was probably a simple task without any danger and that the goblin was friends with Sirona which made Amit calm down.

“I’ll meet you there.” Kaylub nods at Amit and travels to the mines.

“Hello, a friend of mine who knows Gobbledegook will be meeting us here. Before he arrives, mind informing on why we’re here.” Kaylub asked as he arrived on the back of Caligo, a Hippogriff he had befriended, before Lodgok.

“Of course. Presenting Ranrok with the helmet did not have the effect we were hoping for. Because he knew the details surrounding its plunder, he presumed I’d had help from a witch or wizard in retrieving it.”

“How could he not…” Kaylub takes a breath. “Is there anything else I should know?” Lodgok is surprised by his calm demeanour.

“There is something that Ranrok is following.” He informs him about Ranrok’s ancestor, Bragbor, who created the repository and that he was requested to find them along with the journals from the ancestor. Kaylub then notices Amit coming.

“We’ll continue this conversation later.”

“You know Gobbledegook?” Lodgok was sceptical and Amit proves him right to be sceptical as he butchers speaking. “As long as you’re better at reading then we’re good.”

“Why would he need to read documents if you’re here?” Lodgok then explained how he wasn’t going into the mine and it was only going to be Kaylub and Amit going.

“Then we should go.” The two go under disillusionment to sneak around as Amit looks at the Goblin mine with wonder at the ingenuity of it.

The two find documents as Amit reads them and the two encounter goblins, but Kaylub handles them after trying to be stealthy. They continue to travel and find blueprints to a giant drill.

“I think that’s enough adventure for a day. Or a lifetime.” Amit looks at Kaylub as the two exit the mine.

“Thank you again for your help.”

“Of course, your goblin secrets are safe with me. And without further ado, adieu.” He leaves as Kaylub goes over to talk to Lodgok.

“You had mentioned you shared the same views as Ranrok, why work with me then?” He watches as Lodgok sighs. 

“There was a witch at Rookwood castle, she was looking at a container made of goblin metal.” He continues to tell the story of how he knew Miriam, professor Fig’s wife, and how she was different from others and was kind. He had let her go, but Ranrok disagreed with the choice, going so far as to possibly have killed her.

“I’ll look into these blueprints.” He then leaves as Kaylub gets a letter from Poppy to meet at the Three Broomsticks.

“I’m here. Quite a change of pace from our previous meeting.”

“Don’t remind me. The thought of that tent makes my blood boil.” Kaylub felt the same. “Speaking of which. I believe our encounter may have made Victor Rookwood after you even more. Why is he after you in the first place?”

“He’s working with Ranrok. I believe the dragons are being controlled with goblin metal collars.” Kaylub changes the subject, more focused on the dragons than himself.

“That must have been what we found at the poacher’s camp. The Hebridean Black wasn’t wearing a collar. I’ll look into finding her whereabouts.”

“We should finish what we started.” The two nod and Kaylub receives a letter from Sebastian.

“What are we doing all the way out here?” Kaylub asked as he landed near the catacomb bt Feldcroft with Caligo. Sebastian looks up and sees Kaylub getting off the Hippogriff and blinks as he pats the creature's neck.

“You certainly have a way with creatures.”

“I thought you noticed that in Care of Magical Creature’s class.” He gives him a smile as Sebastian chuckles.

“I found a note about a relic in this catacomb from a student’s report on it. It said to be able to reverse dark curses. I can save Anne. I need to see her.”

“Can I see the report?”

“Sure,” He hands it over and Kaylub looks at it. “Also, Ominis has been asking about you a lot.” There’s a hint of jealousy in his voice. “You didn’t tell him about what we’re doing did you?”

“Not at all.”

“Good. He would be livid if he found out what we were doing.” Don’t worry Ominis, I’ll keep him safe.

The two enter the catacombs.

And within the first room are spiders, which Kaylub handles by being invisible and petrificus totalus’ them.

“Let’s hope those are the only living things in here and there are no more insects.”

“Yeah, spiders aren’t insects.”

“Don’t start.” Sebastian gives Kaylub a soft glare as Kaylub giggles.

Kaylub finds a chest hidden away and it opens the door. The two continue on as they fight spiders before entering the main tomb area.

“Why are the bones outside of the sarcophagus?” Kaylub asked as Sebastian rushed over.

“Don’t know… did you hear that?” Sebastian asked as Kaylub came down.

“We’re in a tomb, I assumed creepy noises were normal.” Kaylub then notices something on the ground. “I found something.” He picks up what seems to be a diary entry.

“Says here that the student planned on coming back and left a barricade of bones.”

“Naturally the note did mention a room beyond the great room. There must be more here. Let’s divide and conquer. You look for a way beyond the room and I’ll look for anything we could have missed.”

“There was something else the note mentioned. Their next assignment was learning the imperious curse.”

“Really? Interesting. But right now we should focus on getting past this room.”

“Where do you think these diary pages came from?”

“Slytherin did mention a student who carried around a bag of note pages. They might have been left on purpose. Or, the student may have simply dropped them.” Kaylub nodded then went over to the archway that looked to be made of bones.

“Seems we might have to use the bones.” Kaylub gathers up the bones from the sarcophagus around and adds them to the archway and the door disintegrates.

“I knew we’d find a way. I could feel it in my bones.” He smirks as Kaylub laughs at the bad pun. He smiles to himself, glad to see him laughing. “Shall we?”

The two continue on.

“Oh, there’s something I should say before we go on.” The two stop in the next room. “The note mentions the Imperius Curse, meaning we might have to use it. Do you want to learn the curse? It’s Unforgivable, but handy to use when you’re outnumbered.”

“How do you know the Imperius Curse?”

“I taught myself. Don’t tell Ominis, though.”

“I’d rather not learn it.”

“Really? I shan’t press you. I’ve got your back no matter what we face.” And the two face multiple rooms of spiders before finding another room with a barricade.

“Another barricade? Considering how well you did on the last one, this one should be a cinch.” He smirks at Kaylub who rolls his eyes.

“How gracious of you.”

“I try.” He then notices something. “Wait, this room has runes on it.”

Kaylub looks over the room and solves the puzzle taking the bones to make the archway.

“You are head and shoulders above these bones. Nicely done.” Kaylub smiles lighty at the praise.

The two travel on and battle a massive amount of spiders including two matriarchs before coming to a dead end.

“Great, a dead end. All that for nothing!” Sebastian complains as Kaylub takes his arm.

“Now hold on. There might be something.” And he was right. Kaylub finds two notes. One seems to be an illustration. He then notices that the relic is on the table.

“Sebastian, the relic, look.” He points out the skeletal looking pyramid. Kaylub then reads the other note.

“We really found it. It all lines up.”

“What do you think it means by ‘dark sacrifice needed to realise relics full potential?’”

“I have no idea, but we’re here for the relic.” Kaylub catches his arm before he could take it.

“The note says we should leave the relic alone.”

“We need this relic. For Anne’s sake. I’m taking the relic.” He gently pulls himself from Kaylub’s grasp. “Let’s head back to Feldcroft. I need to hide this relic from my uncle.”

The two turn to leave and notice a figure standing outside the archway to the room they’re in. Oh, no.

“Is that—Ominis?” The two go over to him as he’s pacing the archway.

“Ominis. So the sounds we were hearing were you.”

“You left me no choice, I had to follow you. Sebastian, put the relic back, please. We can find another way to save Anne.”

“I’m not leaving without the relic.”

“I won’t let you leave with that relic.” The two prepare their wands as Kaylub get’s between the two.

“Guys, please.” Kaylub puts his hand on Sebastian’s chest making him look down at him. “Step back, Sebastian.”

“Fine, but Ominis knows. I won’t step back from a fight.” He was glaring at the other male who had his wand still up. Kaylub takes a breath and walks over to Ominis. Sebastian steps farther away towards a corner in the middle of the room. Far enough out of earshot.

“How much did you hear?”

“Everything. I was glad to hear you wanted to leave the relic.” His smile was soft as he put his wand down. “We need to convince him to leave the relic.”

“And if nothing works?”

“Something has to. I need your help.”

“I agree. This is riskier than Sebastian realises. But I don’t think we’ll be able to convince him to leave it.”

“What are you suggesting?”

“We let him leave with the relic, but no more.”

“I feel that’s what was agreed in the scriptorium. I’m being taken for a fool!”

“No,” Kaylub places a hand on Ominis’ arm catching the male's attention. “I’m saying this as a way to keep your friendship intact. Let’s trust he knows better.” Ominis relaxes. 

“Fine. If I trust him on this, I trust you on this. The dark arts may seem harmless until it’s too late. I won’t say a word more.”

“Thank you, Ominis.” Kaylub says softly as pink reaches Ominis’ ears.

“Sebastian, let’s go.” Kaylub calls out as Ominis steps to the side.

“I’m not leaving without the relic.” He comes over.

“You don’t have to. Ominis changed his mind.”

“What? Ominis?”

“I’ll explain on the way.” Sebastian looks at Ominis as they pass.

Once far enough, Sebastian asked the question.

“We reached a compromise.” Kaylub kept walking without looking back at Sebastian.

“Really, one chat with you and Ominis agrees. What really happened?” Sebastian was upset that Kaylub wasn’t looking at him and his tone was colder than expected.

“What needed to be said was said.”

“I didn’t want to keep this from Ominis. I just didn’t want to worry him.”

“Let’s just go.”

The two exit the catacombs as Kaylub opens his Nap-sac and summons Caligo.

“It’ll be quicker if we ride.”

“As we were leaving, Ominis wouldn’t even acknowledge me. That’s not like him.” Sebastian brings up as he gets on the Hippogriff behind Kaylub.

“He’s troubled by all of this. He didn’t want you to do this.”

“He should know that I’m only doing this for us and Anne.” Kaylub remains silent as the two ride back to Feldcroft.

“When we arrive, we best not tell Anne what we did to get this Relic. She thinks like Ominis. It would only upset her.” Kaylub remains silent as his focus is on what seems to be black smoke coming from the village.

“Faster, Caligo!”

The two enter Feldcroft to see that they were under attack. The two join the fight and defend the village, but one of the goblins sees Anne who was suffering from a pain attack.

Sebastian rushes over and casts Imperio, making the goblin kill himself. His uncle tells him to stay away from them as he takes Anne back inside.

Kaylub comes over to where Sebastian is.

“The Imperius Curse saved Anne’s life. That goblin was going to kill her.” He looks at Kaylub for assurance that what he did was right.

“You did what you had to do.” Kaylub watches Sebastian sigh. “I think it’s best if you give your uncle a chance to calm down.”

“You might be right. I’ll head back to Hogwarts for now.” He leaves as Kaylub goes over to talk to his uncle.

“What Sebastian did was inexcusable. You cannot possibly be about to defend him.”

“Sir, we’ve encountered Ranrok’s loyalist before. They were going to kill Anne.”

“Our family does not resort to Unforgivable Curses, not even on our enemies. Sebastian is not allowed to step foot in Feldcroft again. The fact that you would defend him tells me everything I need to know about you. If I found out either of you have been practising Dark Arts… I will report you to the headmaster myself.” He then leaves as Kaylub sighs.

Chapter Text

Kaylub met with Sebastian in the Undercroft.

“How did it go with my uncle?” Sebastian looked at Kalub.

“Not well. He said you can’t step foot near Feldcroft and if either of us use dark magic again, he’ll report us to Professor Black.”

“I can’t believe he would ban me from seeing my own twin! Dark magic or not. This relic can save Anne. I’ll send her the ‘crest’ so she knows to meet me.”

“Now I’m confused. What ‘crest’ are you talking about?”

“Nothing. Just a thought. Now I’m more determined than ever to learn what power that relic has.”

“What did you mean by giving her the ‘crest’ she’d know where to meet?”

“Our parents just died and we were going to move in with uncle solomon. We couldn’t take much. She had packed up a box of treasures she collected, things to do with our family. She handed me her favourite: a crest and said to keep it. It would “keep me safe”. It had no enchantment but I still have it with me. I’ll give it to her with plans to meet.”

“Be careful, Sebastian. Your uncle could intercept it and you could get expelled.”

“Even if Ominis is upset with us, he has no love lost for his family. He’d use their connections to the Headmaster if we needed his help.” Kaylub bit his lip recalling the ‘connections’ threat Ominis gave to him when they first truly met outside of the Undercroft.

“Very well. Let me know when you have news.” He starts to leave only to feel his arm grabbed. He looks back at Sebastian to see him with concerned gratefulness.

“Thank you again… for everything. You have quickly become one of the people I can trust about this.” Kaylub nodded and Sebastian let him go.

“I hope I didn’t keep you waiting.” Kaylub meets up with Poppy in the town square of Hogsmeade.

“Not at all. I was actually visiting the post office. My gran was supposed to send me a package, but it seems she forgot. She didn’t send me an owl this week either. Perhaps she’s busy with her research.”

“You said you had news of the dragon?”

“Yes. I went back to the tent and tracked her flight.”

“Wonderful. Let’s go and return her egg at once if that’s okay with you.”

“I agree, we should go.”

The two arrive at where the dragon was most likely to nest.

“How were you able to find this place?”

“It’s not hard to think like a poacher. Shall we see if she’s home? We only need to return her egg.” Kaylub nodded.

“Then let’s go return the egg.”

The two travel towards the nest. As they get closer to the nest, Kaylub casts disillusionment just to be safe and continues on avoiding some Dark Mongrel along the way. The two catch glimpses of the dragon and Kaylub is relieved to see that she doesn’t have a collar on.

Once at the nest, the mother returns and is furious. It seems like her attacks are only aimed at Poppy but the two manage to sneak by her.

They go up to the nest and Kaylub places the egg down and the mother lands. She roars at the two, but doesn’t attack. She growls and gets close enough to Kaylub where he’s able to gently touch her snout. She then takes her egg into her mouth and flies off leaving the two unharmed.

“That was brilliant! And did you see how clever? She left us perfectly unharmed.”

“Creatures are a lot cleverer than people realise. I’m glad we were able to return her egg.”

“I agree. Thank you for doing this with me. Wouldn’t blame you one bit if you wanted to head back to the castle and never think about dragons again.”

“Not at all. But we should head back. It might not be safe for you due to the Poachers.”

“I agree, being away from the castle too long makes me worry, but I’m surprised the Poachers haven’t reacted yet. I’m positive they wouldn’t be pleased with us due to us breaking free a dragon and ruining their fighting ring. Unless…” Her eyes widened. “Oh no, we need to return right now! I have to send out an owl.”

The two return to Hogsmeade as Poppy immediately goes to the post office and Kaylub receives another letter from Sebastian. This time it’s about something else.

“I came here as soon as I could.”

“I was so focused on Ominis and the catacomb– along with my uncle– that I forgot to mention what I’ve found out about the triptych. This is the area painted on it.”

“You know the area well.”

“And I did some scouting and found an abandoned mine surrounded by Ranrok loyalists.”

“Do you think they know about the Triptych?”

“I’ve no idea. But perhaps they’re searching it – the way they did Rookwood Castle and Isidora’s manor. How do we want to handle this?”

“We should see what they’re doing, but best to avoid detection. And I still have the rune from the one piece. If it is connected we should see the symbol again.”

“Very well, after you.”

The two use Disillusionment and sneak in. They avoid the camps with the Loyalists in it by finding alternative routes.

“Sneaking around does have its appeal.” Sebastian comments as they enter the mine which has spider webs around it.

“This feels more like a tomb.” Kaylub comments as he sees the poor people who got caught by the spiders hanging from the ceiling.

“This place got closed down due to accidents. I can see why.” Sebastian sticks close to Kaylub.

The two travel through the mine, battling both goblins and spiders separately. They even exchange some banter to lighten the mood. Both finding comfort in each other in such a dreary place.

“Still no sign of the runes.” Sebastian complained as they had been travelling for a while.

“Looks like we’re going to be a bit distracted.” Kaylub could see that in an upcoming clearing there were many of Ranrok’s Loyalists.

“An unwelcome distraction at that.” The two enter the room and the fight breaks out. Even after defeating the loyalists, spiders arrive and the two battle them as well.

“Well, that’s one way to clear a room.”

“Not bad… for a Slytherin.”

“There’s that Hufflepuff loyalty you’re so well-known for.” The two share a smile. “Now we can look around in peace.”

Kaylub notices the same symbol puzzle from Jackdaw’s grave and the trials, but this one had a flame symbol on them.

“Confringo.” He hits the symbol and it starts moving.

“What are you-” Kaylub continues and hits the other two, opening a door behind some webs.

“Wasn’t expecting that.” Sebastian looked at Kaylub who looked back.

“I recall seeing these puzzles before.” He nods and the two enter the hidden room.

“What do you have there?” Sebastian asked as Kaylub picked up the note on the table.

“A journal entry by Isadora.”

“Hopefully it can shed some light on this place.” Kaylub continued to look around.

“Sebastian, I found the second piece of the triptych.”

“Lovely, seems this wasn't all for nothing.” He comes over to Kaylub’s side. The two discuss the discovery of this place along with what lies behind the secrets with Kaylub explaining more about the Ancient magic, including that both Isadora and Rackham can see it. He still doesn’t tell him about the possibility that he can take away Anne’s pain in case he can’t.

“There should be another passageway to the undercroft here so we don’t have to walk back.” And there was.

“Now for the moment of truth.” Sebastian was by the Triptych as Kaylub places the canvas on.

“Please tell me you recognise this place.”

“The good news is that I do.” Kaylub looks at him.

“And the bad news?”

“We’re in for some trouble.” Kaylub tilts his head confused. “That coast has been taken over by Ranrok. There’s a huge mine there and Maruneem has suffered for it. It’s almost as bad at Feldcroft. We should head over right now.”

“No.”

“What?”

“We’ve always been a step behind Ranrok, but I have a friend who could help us get ahead.”

“Who is that?” Kaylub bit his lip.

“They know Ranrok personally, but they've asked me not to tell their name to anyone.”

“A goblin? Tell me I’m wrong. Kaylub, a goblin cursed my sister telling her she should be “seen not heard” remember.”

“I do. But not all goblins-”

“Not all goblins what? Don’t tell me that after what happened at Feldcroft, the mine we just went through.”

“You’re not listening to me.”

“Why would I listen to someone so ignorant?” Kaylub took a step back as pain and hurt were evident in his eyes.

“That was cruel.” He turns and leaves without a glance back as tears threaten to fall. As he was leaving it dawned on Sebastian what he just did.

“Kaylub, wa-” but he was already gone.

Chapter Text

“Kaylub?” Said boy looked up from where he was sniffling to see Ominis looking at him with concern etched into his brow.

“O-Ominis, sorry, is this your spot? I’ll go.” He stood to leave.

“Have you been crying?” Ominis asked as he faced the other boy.

“H-how-”

“I may not be able to see, but I can tell.” Ominis steps closer to Kaylub. “What happened?”

“I-it’s nothing, Sebastian-”

“Sebastian!? What did he do?!” There was anger evident in his voice. That bumbling buffoon, what did he do to make Kaylub cry?

“It’s nothing. I don’t want to cause harm to your friendship.”

“Sebastian is doing a fine job of that on his own. You had nothing to do with it. You have only been dragged into his mess and for that, I apologise.” Ominis looks towards Kaylub as he feels a soft hand in his.

“You have nothing to apologise for. I chose to help him and go along with his plans. I made a promise to you and I intend to keep it. I’m going to try to get him to stop with all of these dark arts.”

“I don’t want you to get hurt. I’ve grown rather fond of you as of late.” His ears turned pink as he spoke that line. Kaylub smiled and squeezed the hand he was still holding.

“And I of you. That’s why I want to help – both of you.”

“W-well, I shan’t hold you here long. I’m sure you have many things you need to do.” Ominis gently took his hand back and turned to leave as his cheeks heated up.

Kaylub smiled, feeling better after chatting with Ominis and returned to his common room.

He was sitting on one of the couches reading a book when Poppy showed up.

“They got to her. They went after my gran.” Poppy’s worried tone made Kaylub put his book down.

“Is she all right?”

“She’s well. But someone at Horntail recognised me and went after her. They must have thought I sent the egg there. She said they took the whole place apart looking for it – screaming that we’d cost them everything.”

“I’m glad your gran is all right. I doubt either of us anticipated this.”

“I should have. I underestimated the poachers. And now I fear they’ve found something.” Kaylub tilted his head. Poppy looked around.

“Come with me.” Kaylub followed Poppy outside of the castle and past the care of creatures class.

“They refused to leave empty-handed, so they took some of my gran’s journals of her study on rare creatures. I fear they might be after the Snidgets.”

“Then we should find the creature first and protect it from the poachers.”

“We had the element of surprise with the dragon, but the poachers will be looking for us now.”

“Then we need allies. People who hate poachers as well — who want to protect magical crea-”

“Merlin’s beard! You’re a genius! The centaurs! They’d want the Snidgets protected at all costs.”

“Then we should go talk to the Centaurs.”

“We’d have to be cautious. Tensions with them are high. I’ll think of a way to talk with them.” Kaylub nodded and the two returned to the castle together.

“Natty, I assume you have a plan on how to take down Harlow?” Kaylub asked as he met her outside of Hogsmeade. He would have preferred if she wasn’t involved, especially with her mothers warning ringing in his mind.

“You go speak with Mr. Bickle’s friends while I go to the Hog’s Head. I saw some Ashwinders enter there. And as my mother would never go near the Hog’s Head, she is less likely to learn of my activities than if I were to wander the village questioning its residents.”

“And where can I find his friends?”

“They are here in Hogsmeade. Find out how they are being blackmailed by Rookwood and Harlow and meet me back here after you’re done. By then I should be able to move more freely.” Kaylub nodded and set off to find the three friends.

He finds out that each had an encounter with Harlow and have evidence against him in one way or another. He promises that Harlow will be brought to justice and goes back to the meeting spot only to find it empty.

She said she would be at Hog’s Head. Maybe we’ll cross paths if I head over there.

Kaylub goes over, but doesn’t find her inside, he does find her wand though. Oh no. He uses Revelio to find traces of her and follows them.

“Nosey students get what they deserve.” Kaylub turned to look where the voice came from, but the person was gone. He didn’t like the bad omen from those words.

He enters the hidden room within the cellar of the Hog’s Head and sneaks around finding both the love letter and the book of poems which were the items used as blackmail against two of Mr. Bickle’s friends. He takes down a few of the Ashwinders that were in his way and finds Natty and Mr. Rabe locked in cells.

“I knew you would find us if I left my wand as a clue. Talk to Mr. Rabe, to figure out how to get us out.” Kaylub nodded as he walked over.

“The cells are cursed and have anti-apparition magic on them. Even Natsai’s wandless magic isn’t strong enough. I need my wand. It’s somewhere in this room, I can feel it.”

“I’ll find it.” Kaylub uses Revelio and notices something shimmering on the desk. He goes closer and uses Revelio again revealing a chest. Alohomora easily handles the lock and Kaylub returns the wand.

He breaks the curse and exits the cell doing the same for Natty’s cell.

“You go inform officer Singer, we will find a way out on our own.” Kaylub agreed with Natty and the two set off. “The Ashwinders must pay.”

“Yes, but we do this quietly.” Kaylub used his ancient magic to take down the two biggest threats before sneaking and taking down the remaining two.

“They got what they deserved,” Natty said as Kaylub nodded.

Once out, Officer Singer arrives and scolds the two. Kaylub informs her of the evidence he had gathered and she informs the two that it was a start.

“Natsai, will you inform your mother or shall I?”

“We’ll talk soon.” Natty and Officer Singer leave as Kaylub goes a different way.

“Is this where we’re meeting the Centaurs?” Kaylub asked as he met up with Poppy in the forbidden forest.

“Well, they don’t exactly know we’re coming, so it’s less of a meeting and more of a surprise, I suppose?”

“I doubt they’ll like being surprised.”

“I know, but this is the only way to help the Snidgets. Perhaps they’ll be able to tell that we’re sincere. There’s something about them that’s so knowing. It’s almost unnerving.” Kaylub was about to say something when he heard a rushing of hoofs.

The two are quickly surrounded by Centaurs as Kaylub stands slightly before Poppy. The leader of the herd steps forward and looks down on the two.

“Foolish humans. You should not have come in here.”

“We merely wanted to speak with you.” Poppy speaks up as Kaylub looks around at the centaurs.

“Why? So you can go back to your school and tell your friends how you spoke to a centaur and ‘it’ spoke back!”

“No! We need your help. The poachers-”

“Enough! You’ve only come here to die, young witch.” He raised his hand and the other centaurs ready their bows.

“Wait, I recognize that young one.” One of the centaurs spoke up, catching the leader’s attention. “He aided us against some poachers we had run across.” All their eyes were on Kaylub now.

“What was your intention?”

“I was simply passing through and thought to lend a hand. I hate poachers, so I would gladly aid again.”

“Dorran, you can escort them out. We are only sparing you once, next time we will have your heads.” The herd then leaves as one centaur remains.

“Follow me, I will-”

“The Snidgets are in danger! The poachers know that they are connected to moonlight, but haven’t figured out the connection yet! Please, we only want to find them before the poachers do to protect them.” Dorran looks back at Poppy who had the outburst.

“Find the moonstone in the cave, bring it to the hedge in the forest. I will talk to the herd.” He then leaves.

“What’s so special about this moonstone?” Kaylub asked as the two were walking back.

“I don’t know. I’ll read up on it in the library.” Poppy said as the two returned to Hogwarts after the night out.

The next morning, Natty ambushed Kaylub in the Great Hall as he was eating. He had noticed more stares and whispers recently, but was unfazed.

“How did it go with your mother?”

“If you haven’t noticed, you’re the talk of the school after saving me from the Ashwinders.”

“I have noticed.”

“I had told my mother myself about our adventure in hopes that she would be more forgiving. She must have told the other professors, and, well, news travels fast. Unfortunately, she might, in fact, have been less forgiving than I’d hoped.”

“She has the right to be concerned. We have been doing dangerous activities.” Though, I’m not so worried about my own safety. “Has Officer Singer done anything with the evidence we’ve given her?” Kaylub decided to change the subject.

“No, and Harlow is as powerful as ever. Someone needs to take them down whether it be us or Officer Singer. If someone had done the same back home my father would still be around.”

“How did your father die?” Kaylub figured maybe talking about it would help her.

“He died protecting me from a bandit because I saw his face. If I had been able to protect myself, he would still be here.”

“I’m sorry for your loss. We’re in this together.”

“Thank you. I will let you know our next move when I can. Once we take down Harlow, Rookwood is next.”

Chapter Text

Kaylub was in the Map room as prior Headmistress, Niamh Fitzgerald, had returned and was ready for him.

“I have news. The goblins are searching for something called the ‘repository’ and their building drills to find them.”

“This is worse than I feared. Look at the map to see where the next trial is. Luckily it’s quite close.” Kaylub looked at the map and saw that Hogwarts was glowing.

“It’s in Hogwarts?” She nods.

“As you know, I was a previous Headmistress here, so my portrait hangs in the office. I had heard of your arrival the same time Black did. And I’ll admit I was a bit intrigued. I had hoped that the current headmaster would be of some help if the occasion did arrive, but it seems he’s more occupied with himself. You will need to find another way into his office while he’s away. I’ll be waiting for you there.” Kaylub nods and takes his leave. I wonder if Professor Fig has any ideas.

Entering the office, Kaylub fills Professor Fig in with everything he’s done according to the news on Ranrok. He also informed him of Lodgok’s connection to his late wife.

“The next trial is in the headmaster’s office.”

“Then you’ll need the password, only his house-elf would know.”

“Then how do I get him to tell me?”

“You must look and sound like Black himself.” He gives him a Polyjuice potion and then goes to distract the real Professor Black.

Now to go find the house-elf.

Kaylub roamed around as Headmaster Black nearly getting caught by Ominis and Professor Sharp who seem to know while others merely called him strange and unbearable.

Kaylub finds the house elf and learns the password ‘toujours pur’ and hides as the Polyjuice Potion wears off.

“Now to get into that office.”

He makes his way to the office and enters it, finding Niamh Fitzgerald in her portrait.

“Look for a book on the pedestal and interact with it.” Kaylub nodded and did so.

“Professor Fitgerald?” Kaylub asked as he found himself inside of the book.

“In here, call me Niamh. Come find me, but be weary, you will encounter death in many forms.”

The first area looked like a simple village, but then Death showed up and sent out shadows that attacked the villagers and killed them. 

“You must find a cloak.” Kaylub managed to sneak by them and finds the cloak which makes him invisible to death and he gets out, but hasn’t found Niamh yet.

“You will not be able to hide this time. Take the wand before you. Do not squander its power.” Kaylub enters another scene and battles his way through it still not finding Niamh.

She doesn’t say anything as Kaylub retrieves the mysterious stone and travels through the next scene where people were mourning her death.

“The stone only produces a shadow of myself. Light cannot exist without darkness nor can darkness exist without light. Remember that as you look at my memory.” Kaylub looks into the pensive.

“Isadora is walking with Niamh and the two are talking about the way that Isadora can harness the pain of others and gain power from it. She also discusses how she’s working with a goblin to make the storage containers for the magic that seeped out. She then takes some of Niamh’s pain to show off what she meant, but instead she scares her instead.

Coming out of the memory, Kaylub finds himself in a room. He goes through the gateway and enters the map room where he meets the fourth Keeper, Professor Bakar.

The two discuss how young he is and Kaylub expresses urgency over the need to complete the trials as Ranrok has found the repository and had harnessed the magic inside.

“I need time to discuss this with the others.” Kaylub sighs as Professor Fig looks over at him.

“Seems we have to wait. But we can at least continue to watch what Ranrok does.” Kaylub nodded.

“Oh, Professor, there’s something else I forgot to mention.” He explains the Journals that Ranrok had been following and the connection to the Keepers.

“Then we best keep an eye on Ranrok, he might lead us to more information.” Kaylub nodded, agreeing.

Kaylub goes to History of Magic class and struggles to stay awake while Professor Binns drones on about dull facts. Kaylub even watches Ominis startle awake as Professor Binns fazes through him. He giggles softly as Ominis glares at him lightly as the two were sitting next to each other.

They even go out of class to search for some “people” who were important in history.

“That class always puts me to sleep. I’m surprised you didn’t fall asleep.” Ominis comments as the two were walking together back to the astronomy tower.

“Trust me, I was close to falling asleep, I just fought against it since he was talking about Goblin rebellions and I could learn something from history.” Kaylub watched as Ominis nodded.

“Where are you heading now?”

“I was going to go to the Room of Requirement to take care of my creatures.”

“Room of Requirement?” Kaylub fills him in on it and how he’s been keeping up with his Herbology, Potions, and Care of Magical Creatures classes through the rooms provided by the space.

“So you’ve been using two secret rooms, clever.”

“Thank you. I’ll be on my way.” His arm was grabbed by Ominis.

“Before you go, has Sebastian apologised yet?” Ominis asked as Kaylub looked at him.

“No, I actually haven’t spoken to him since that time in the Undercroft.” It’s also the reason I’ve been avoiding the Undercroft.

“I see.” He lets his arm go. “Well, farewell, and be safe.” Kaylub giggles at his concern and Ominis’ ears go pink.

“I will.”

While tending to his creatures, Deek comes over to Kaylub.

“Deek has heard word of a Phoenix somewhere.”

“I had better go and rescue the creature before Poachers find them.” Deek tells him the location and Kaylub sets out.

He finds the cave after sneaking past goblins in a mine and enters battling poachers and spiders before the Phoenix finds him.

“Hello, I’m not here to hurt you.” The Phoenix lands on Kaylub’s shoulder and nuzzles him. “Everlast, that shall be your name.” He likes his name as he flies around Kaylub to show his appreciation. It willingly goes into the Nab-sak and Kaylub leaves.

“Deek will be so thrilled to see you.” He battles an Acromatula before an owl arrives from Sebastian.

‘I shouldn’t have reacted so bitterly about your goblin friend. I apologise. I hope we can finish what we started with the triptych. Please meet me at the southern coast – we can search for the final canvas piece.’

Well, I’m already here, might as well meet up with him. Kaylub wouldn’t lie that he was happy to hear Sebastian apologise, even if it was just in a letter.

“I’m here.”

“That was rather quick.”

“I was already on this side. I found another magical creature, one that I can show you later.”

“Sure, anyway, I saw droves of Ranrok’s loyalists coming up. They were talking about another cavern like the one we went to before. How is Ranrok still ahead of us?”

“I don’t know. I saw another Keeper’s memories.” He tells him what he found but it wasn’t much.

“These keepers are playing games with you. You need to press them for more information.”

“It’s not that easy. I have to complete trials before viewing these memories. They’re showing me them in a particular order. They-”

“Ugh. Either they don’t trust you or you don’t care enough about Anne to ask the difficult questions!” I guess the apology wasn’t that sincere. Kaylub looks away from Sebastian with pain in his eyes.

“I do care for Anne, but I’m tired of explaining myself. Perhaps we should part ways.” Kaylub turns to leave but Sebastian takes his arm.

“No. That’s- that’s not what I meant- I mean-.” He sighs. “I need answers. Answers for Anne.”

“I know. Let’s see what this Triptych has for us then.” His voice was still cold as he pulled away from Sebastian who stared at his back. “Quickly, before we’re spotted.”

“R-right. We should be careful, I saw Ranrok loyalist setting up raid camps.”

“I wonder why?” Kaylub’s voice was laced with sarcasm.

“To rob the hamlet areas where they used to leave treasure. Before Ranrok’s lot showed up.” Sarcasm Sebastian didn’t pick up on.

The two pass by one of the camps and see Thestrals overhead.

“Thestrals overhead. Some people consider them a bad omen.” Sebastian looked at Kaylub for a reaction.

“Not all people.” Kaylub looked up at them with a smile.

“I know that!”

“All right.” Kaylub sighed as the smile dropped. He kept walking ahead.

“I was trying to make small talk. I’d rather not trek up this mountain in silence.”

“I would.” Kaylub muttered too soft for Sebastian to hear.

“What?” Kaylub remained silent as Sebastian felt a sting in his chest and the silence prevailed again. 

“I’m sure the Thesteral nest is nearby.” Sebastian tries again at conversing with Kaylub as the two see the Thestrals again.

“I’m sorry we both can see Thestrals.”

“It’s certainly not something I wanted us to have in common.”

The two continued on and soon found the camp.

“There they are!” Sebastian starts to run ahead, but Kaylub catches his arm.

“Wait, we should have some kind of plan.”

“I’m through planning.” He snatches his arm back and rushes in.

Kaylub follows after, but remains in stealth picking off enemies before they can hurt Sebastian who was attracting their attention and aggression.

“What were you thinking?!” Kaylub blew up at Sebastian after all the goblins were handled.

“I was thinking about dead goblins.”

“You could have gotten us killed!”

“But I didn’t. It seems they went further up the mountain.”

“Let’s get going.” Kaylub’s voice held defeat in it and also still some anger at the actions of Sebastian.

“Goblins own anything made with our silver. Whether it’s a sword or a repository.” A goblin voiced ahead.

“Sebastian, did you hear that?”

“What a ridiculous notion of ownership.” Kaylub was more focused on the repository information.

The two arrive at the top, but Kaylub grabs Sebastian before he can run ahead.

“We do this my way.” His tone left no room for argument and the two snuck around picking off the five guards one by one.

“This has to be it, let’s go!” Kaylub grabs him again.

“Wait, we can’t just rush in.”

“Ugh, why are you being so cautious?”

“Lodgok said-”

“Your goblin friend.”

“Stop it. Lodgok knows Ranrok better than we do. I am not the enemy here. We both want the same thing here: answers. Listen to me or we won’t be continuing this together.”

“You’re right, I’m sorry. I’m letting my emotions get the better of me. Have been for a while.”

“Good. Now Ranrok knows about the Keepers and has been looking into locations surrounding them, that’s how he’s been keeping ahead of us. We need to work together if we want to find that canvas.” He gets a nod from Sebastian and the two enter the cave.

“Spiders, how fitting.” The two battle the spiders and carry on.

“That chest was one nudge away from falling over.”

“Oh, I think three nudges.” Sebastian smirks as Kaylub rolls his eyes with a slight smile.

The witty banter between the two had returned as Sebastian smiled to himself glad to have recovered this. He honestly felt at ease with Kaylub around and really didn’t want to lose him, even to himself.

The two find a staircase and travel to see a large room. They defeat the spiders and Kaylub solves the ruin puzzle to open the door.

“Is finding these chests luck or instinct?” Sebastian comments as Kaylub has located another chest. His ears turned pink as he pocketed the loot.

“Look, Sebastian, a journal entry. Maybe there’s more.”

“Why couldn’t she have kept her journal entries in one place?” Sebastian asked mockingly with a smile as Kaylub smiled back.

The two enter the next room and a troll appears along with spiders. The two battle against both enemies and Kaylub holds out a Wiggenweld potion to Sebastian.

“Nice, teamwork.” Sebastian downs the potion.

“Nothing like an angry toll to bring friends together.” Kaylub gave him a smile. “Reparo.” He fixes the path that was blocked by the rubble caused by the troll.

The two travel on as Kaylub finds more journal entries detailing Ismelda’s research with the pain she’s extracting.

“Good news?” Sebastian asked after Kaylub found another entry.

“This one is worrisome.” The entry talked about risk.

“This place couldn’t have only belonged to Isadora.” Kaylub brings up as they continue to travel through the large ruin.

“But the triptych led us here for a reason.” The two find another ruin door.

“Seems I should be fluent in runic.” Sebastian joked as Kaylub giggled softly. He unlocked the door and the two entered.

“Is it another area isadora created?”

“Seems she honed her skills in ancient magic here.” Kaylub then found her journal entry. Which seems to be after the memory he had just seen. He then finds the last Canvas piece.

“I’ve seen from the memories of the Keepers that they didn’t see eye to eye with Isadora on ancient magic. But I don’t know why she would go through such lengths to hide her knowledge.”

“I wish you could see one of her memories.”

“So do I.” The two return to the Undercroft.

“Go on, don’t leave me in suspense.” Sebastian comments as Kaylub rolls his eyes. 

He places the final piece into the Triptych and nothing happens for a moment. They turned around to see a pensive had appeared and something was floating above it.

“I wonder…” Kaylub taps the floating thing and the memory falls in.

 The two look in and see Isadora’s memories of the time she took pain from her father and her working with a goblin to store the magic residue from taking the pain.

Once out, Sebastian was ecstatic, but Kaylub was concerned.

“Something’s wrong.”

“What do you mean, we saw what she did.”

“Not with the memories, with the portrait. Isadora isn’t here because she can’t be here.”

“So what someone destroyed a little bit of enchanted canvas. We got the memories. We saw what she could do, what you can do.” He looks at him excitedly.

“But I don’t know how to do that.”

“You can learn, the keepers can teach you."

“I’m not sure that they would. The keepers must have had a reason for hiding this. It might be because this is extremely complicated magic. Something that should be used with great care – if at all.”

“If at all? You’ve overcome all of their challenges. You’ve more than proven yourself. You can wield it. You have the ability.” Kaylub steps away from him and focuses on the triptych. “Please, talk to the keepers. If not for me, then for Anne.”

Kalyub looked at him over his shoulder and nodded.

“Thank you. In the meantime, I’ll keep looking into the relic.”

Why did they want to keep Isadora quiet? Why destroy her portrait?

Chapter Text

Kaylub enters the Room of Requirement and goes over to Deek. The two marvel over Everlast as another Vivarium appears and he flies into it. Deek informs him of how happy he is to be able to see all the creatures safe and Kaylub feels the same already better from what had happened earlier with Sebastian. He worries that he might do something rash and he also worries he might not be able to keep him safe this time.

“Natty, is everything all right?” Kaylub asked as he had noticed Natty in the great hall looking upset.

“Some days are harder than others.” Kaylub hugs her as the two remain like that for a while with Natty sniffling.

“Taking down Harlow will help relieve some of the guilt I have for my father’s death. I will send word when I have a plan.”

“Okay, be careful.” That makes two stubborn people who’ll go into dangerous situations that I have to protect.

“I will.”

“I assume this means the search in the library went well?” Kaylub meets with Poppy near Irondale as requested.

“Yes, and no. I figured a mysterious cave is as good as a lead for a vague hint we were given.”

“Let’s be careful as we explore.” He receives a nod and the two enter.

They deal with a few aggressive Dugbogs and Kaylub solves some puzzles before they reach the moonstone which is nuzzled inside a tree where Fwoopers roost.

“It looks just like the moon.” Poppy points out as Kaylub agreed. “Let’s go to the henge. We should arrive at nightfall. We need to remain ahead of the poachers.”

The two arrived and Poppy looked nervous.

“We knew we were at the cave for the moonstone, but Dorran didn’t tell us what to expect when we placed the stone in the henge.”

I doubt he would knowingly send us into danger.” Kaylub placed a hand on her shoulder as she calmed down looking over at him.

“You’re right. I’m just nervous. Let’s head on down and finish this.”

The two went down towards where the henge is. They place the stone in and witness a mooncalf dance. Poppy then fills Kaylub in on her past and how she came to live with her gran. She actually saved Highwing from her own parents since they were poachers.

“I’m glad you trust me.” Kaylub receives a smile.

“We should show Dorran the symbol. You collect the moonstone while I sketch out the symbol.” She starts to sketch as Kaylub does as told.

“What now?”

“Well, it seems to be a bird. We don’t know where Dorran is now. Let’s just go back to the castle for a good night’s rest.” The two start to head back, but then a letter arrives from Sebastian.

“Seems I’m needed elsewhere. You’ll get back safely on your own right?” Kaylub asked as he summoned Caligo and got on.

“Yeah, be safe as well.”

“I will.” He then takes off on Caligo.

“He’s taking Anne and leaving Feldcroft. Where would she go? Where will I see her?” Sebastian seemed lost in his own thoughts when Kaylub approached.

“Sebastian-”

“He’s taking Anne away from Feldcroft. We don’t have time. I’ve asked Anne to stall him. She has to. I‘ve looked into more information on the relic through Slytherin’s spellbook and cross-referenced it with interns in the library. That’s when I realised something: I believe the relic will only work inside the catacomb.”

“So we have to convince Anne to go to the catacombs and conduct a sacrifice– sounds risky.”

“I think the hardest part will be convincing Ominis and ensuring my uncle doesn’t find out.”

“What if he does and reports us to the headmaster.”

“Let me handle Ominis this time. As for my uncle, he’s not an Auror anymore. What he doesn’t know, well, won’t hurt us. Plus, if this works, you won’t have to ask the Keepers about the magic.” He gives him a smile as Kaylub sighs.

“Okay, let me know when you plan to go.”

“I will. Thank you again.” He smiles as Kaylub heads back to the school to get some rest. Sadly, he receives another letter, but this one’s for Lodgok.

“Lodgok?” Kaylub whispered as he snuck past an armoured Troll to get to the entrance to the Coastal Mine. Yet he wasn’t there. Guess I’m going in. He enters the mine.

His focus was on finding Lodgok as he travelled through the huge mine using Disillusionment to remain hidden and only taking down the loyalists who were in his way or that caught him.

“Another Drill is complete. The wizard's world will crumble!” Ranrok announces as his loyalists cheer. I can end this here. All I need to do is destroy that drill.

Using the troll, Kaylub destroyed the pillars and buried the drill.

“That is unfortunate.” Kaylub looked to see Ranrok come over to him. “We can always build another.” He was rather calm.

“I found this lurking outside.” Rookwood arrives and shoves Lodgok to the ground as he was holding a journal.

“Little brother, come back to apologise.” Ranrok looks at Lodgok who holds the book possessively. Ranrok holds his hand out for the book and Lodgok gives it to him. He opens the book and snaps it shut before attacking his brother.

“You had it this whole time!” Kaylub rushed to Lodgok’s side.

“Are you all right?”

“So gullible, Lodgok. That witch didn’t respect you or see you as an equal.”

“You’re wrong.”

“The young ones are especially deceitful.” He looked at Kaylub. “They’re trained to hide their disgust as they use us. The key to the last repository was right here! Now, I don’t need any of you.”

“I was getting it for you.” Lodgok was looking at Kaylub weakly.

“You’re a traitor to your kind!” Ranrok attacks Lodgok sending him into the wall which causes the cave to crumble. 

“No!” Kaylub notices the place crumbling and runs to leave as Ranrok goes to attack him.

“Avada Kedavra!” Rookwood casts, forcing Ranrok to dodge and lose his chance to attack as Rookwood also runs away.

I can’t believe Ranrok would do that to his own brother. Kaylub returned to the castle on that sour note.

‘Anne’s worried. She said Sebastian promised her that I would be there if she went to meet him in the catacomb. But now he’s asking her to join him immediately and to come alone. She said he doesn’t sound himself. Meet us at the catacomb as soon as you can. I hope that my quill has conveyed my message clearly.’ Ominis’ note made Kaylub immediately use the floo network to arrive at the catacombs. One sour thing to another.

“I’m here, Ominis.” Kaylub announced as Anne started to walk away.

“I’m glad you’re here.”

“Where’s Sebastian?”

“He’s in the catacomb. I’m surprised you’re not with him.” There’s a slight bite in his tone.

“Ominis, I-”

“Stop. You swore you wouldn’t let Sebastian take this one step further, yet here we are.”

“I know, this is my fault. I thought he’d stop.”

“I should have stopped him sooner. Now, I fear he's in danger. The place is crawling with Infari.”

“Infari, but how?” Last time Kaylub was there, it was empty except for a few spiders.

“See for yourself, we need to find Sebastian.”

“Okay, let’s go.”

The two enter the catacomb.

“Last time I was here it was just spiders.”

“Well, now we’re dealing with something much worse.” Kaylub understood as he had fought against Infari before.

The two battle to the great room, but Sebastian isn’t there.

“We have to keep going.” Kaylub’s arm gets grabbed.

“Hold on a moment, Anne went to get Solomon. How could I have not seen that? Sebastian is somehow controlling the Infari.”

“The relic had Infari on it. Could that have something to do with it?”

“Creating Infari is already difficult as it is, but to control them is extremely dark magic. Anne must have freaked out when she saw that and he was muttering to himself about healing Anne.”

“Solomon threatened to tell the headmaster if he found out.”

“I have to get back to Hogwarts. If I can get to Professor Black first, I can spin this as a fight between family. Stall Sebastian until I get back. I leave him to you.” He then leaves as Kaylub watches him go. I won’t fail you a second time.

Kaylub continues on battling Infari until he notices a new path through some rubble in the wall. Don’t tell me…

He follows it and can see Sebastian through a door.

“Sebastian!” He called out as he rushed over.

“Kaylub! The relic is the answer! I‘ve been trying to find a way to cure Anne, but with the Relic I can control the curse. Just like I can control the Infari.” He motions to the Infari around him who aren’t attacking.

“Control, I fought-” One of the Inferi got attacked and the two turned to see Solomon there.

“What have the two of you done? Accio Relic.” The relic is ripped from Sebastian’s hand and lands in Solomon’s.

“Solomon, don’t!” Sebastian called out as his uncle destroyed the relic releasing the control Sebastian had over the Infari in the room. “You’ll pay for that!”

“Sebastian-” Kaylub tried to stop him, but he attacked his uncle.

“You two have gone too far. I’m putting an end to this.” Solomon attacks Sebastian, but Kaylub uses Protego to protect him.

“Let’s just deal with the Infari. Confringo!” He hits the Infari around him.

“But-”

“No, Buts! Protego, Stuplify!” Kaylub blocks Solomon’s attack and stuns Infari while glaring at Sebastian who took the hint.

“You’re supposed to be protecting us!” Sebastian yells at his uncle as he uses Leviosa to keep his uncle out of the way while Kaylub is busy burning the Infari around them with a mix of Confringo and Incendio.

“I am protecting you, you foolish boy.”

“Well, I have to disagree since you’re attacking us!” Kaylub snaps as he gets hit by Solomon. Sebastian glared at his uncle as he attacked him again.

“This is the only way to stop you.” 

“That’s the final Infari, will you stop attacking us now or do we have to actually duel you?” Kaylub asked as Sebastian had used Leviosa again to keep his uncle from attacking.

“You’re no friend of my nephew.” He yells as he goes to attack Kaylub who blocked with Protego.

“How dare you-”

“Sebastian, there’s more Infari!” Kaylub called out as he returned to attacking the Infari as Sebastian growled and helped.

“Sorry – it had to be done.” Solomon said as Kaylub dodged out of the way of a cyclone of fire that he had summoned.

“I don’t want to fight you. Please will you stop?!” Kaylub called out as he dodged another one. It was almost like Solomon was only targeting him… he was only targeting Kaylub and Sebastian saw this as well.

“You’re the one making us do this!” Sebastian attacks his uncle as Kaylub continues to dodge the man’s attacks.

“Anne cannot be healed! You need to stop.” Solomon called out as he was now too injured to defend himself.

“I won’t let her suffer! Avada Kedavra!” Green flies from his wand and Solomon’s body drops. Sebastian drops his wand coming to his senses as Inferi starts to arrive again.

“Depulso!” Sebastian went flying into the wall as Anne arrived. “Incendio!” She cleared away the surrounding Infari. She looked at her brother before looking at the book. “Bombarda!”

“No!” Sebastian cried out as Anne went over to their uncle’s body.

“You’ve made your choice.” She leaves with his body.

“Anne. What have you done?” He then struggled getting to his feet. “I need to get out of here.” He starts to leave and Kaylub gives chase.

“Sebastian, stop! Sebastian!”

“What is it?” Sebastian looks at him only after they have exited the catacombs. “She’s withering away — inside and out. Solomon was never there for us. Not really.”

“Sebastian, couldn't you hear me. I was calling for you.” Sebastian looks at him but there’s a haze in his eyes.

“He was going to take her away. He had given up on her. I won’t ever give up on her. Plus he attacked us, he attacked you. I did what I had to do. If I hadn’t know how to cast it-”

“No one should know that curse. You went too far, Sebastian.” Sebastian’s eyes clouded over.

“I-I need to leave. I need to find Ominis.”

“Sebastian-”

“Please, I-I’m not myself right now. Meet me in the Undercroft later, okay?” His eyes were clouded with confusion, fear, and regret.

“Okay.”

“Thank you.” Kaylub watched him leave. I failed you, Ominis. You and Sebastian both.

Chapter Text

Kaylub goes to the map room as dealing with Ranrok might be a good distraction and a good way to avoid the school.

“Lodgok and Ranrok were brothers. Lodgok was killed because he was going to give Bragbor’s final journal to me. Surely this changes things.” Kaylub looked at the Keepers before him.

“We Obliviated Bragbor. He kept journals? Why would he have documented all this? He didn’t know what we were containing.” Professor Bakar asked.

“Isadora told him. I saw her memories.”

“She left memories for someone to find?”

“It was when she healed her father, which I had seen in Professor Rookwood’s pensive, and when she told Bragbor about the magic.”

“It seems our young friend is more than aware of the grave circumstances.” Professor Rackham then informs him of where he’d have to face his next trial and Kaylub knows he’s ready as beasts were his specialty.

“I’ll meet you there. Professor Weasley has been keeping a close eye on me. Best to move separately so as to not have her talk to Professor Black.” Kaylub nodded and the two went their separate ways.

Using the Floo network, Kaylub arrives at the coast. Professor Fig is already there.

Kaylub uncovers the sculpture of a Graphorn and Fig informs him that that’s what he needs to find to unlock the door.

Kaylub goes to where Professor Fig suggests looking and finds the beast.

Kaylub finds the Lord of the Shore, a Graphorn, and kneels before him as he comes up to him.

“I need your help, friend.” Kaylub looks up at the beast who bows their head slightly. He allows Kaylub to ride him and the two return to the trial site and open the door.

“Thank you.” He puts him in his Nap-sak and enters the chamber.

“Perhaps Professor Rackham was right about you. I still have my concerns. Isadora was not who she seems, as you will learn after you view my memories. I hope they will teach you about the power you need to protect.”

“Thank you, Professor Bakar. I will see you back in the map room.”

He goes and views the memory, only slightly happy that he doesn’t have to fight any sentinels. But the memory takes away that slight happiness.

Professor Bakar had seen that Isadora’s father had no emotions, and when he went to report it, he found out that Isadora had been using her pain spell on students. He went with the others to confront her and Rackham attacked first. Isadora retaliates as Niamh is thrown out of commission. Rackham and Rookwood are struggling against her and Bakar ends the battle with the killing curse.

They killed her, just like that.

Kaylub returns to the Map room, but doesn’t look at anyone.

“The final repository is under Hogwarts.”

“Yes, it is. We were unable to do anything with the magic obtained so we became Keepers hoping one day someone who could see traces of ancient magic would come along and be ready to bear the truth.”

“Am I not ready? I’ve done everything you asked.” He doesn’t look up with his fists balled.

“Yes, but you need to make a special wand with the items you’ve gained from our pensives.”

“Then this should keep Ranrok away.”

“No, if he has gathered the magic from the repositories, then even our magic won’t stop him.”

“Then I better hurry.” He turns to leave, preferring not to remain longer than he has to.

“Go to Ollivander’s. I will talk to Professor Weasley?” Professor Fig nodded to Kaylub’s confused look. “We need all the help we can get if we want to protect Hogwarts from being drilled. I will send a letter to Ollivander letting him know to expect you.”

“I’ll be on my way Professor.” Kaylub left the map room still feeling sick about what they had done.

He decides to stop by the Undercroft before going to Ollivander’s since Professor Fig still had to write the letter. I hope Sebastian is doing better. Though he was unsure if he was ready to face Sebastian or Ominis at the moment.

“She’s devastated. Anne just buried her uncle, alone.” Ominis was present and neither had noticed Kaylub enter.

“I did this for her.”

“Sebastian, Anne can’t bear the thought of turning you in, but-”

“Turn me in? She was there, she saw what happened.” Ominis then looked in Kaylub’s direction.

“I’ll give you some time to think.” He walks over to the other side as Kaylub gets the hint and goes over to Sebastian.

“Turn me in?”

“Sebastian.” Kaylub watches as he turns to him.

“You heard that, right? She wants to turn me in. I never meant for this to happen.  I never wanted to hurt my uncle.”

“I know.”

“I can’t believe he’s gone. How did things go so wrong? I was only doing this for her. She needs me more than ever. You understand. You can talk to Ominis. Make him understand. He listens to you. I need to be with Anne.” Kaylub looks away.

“And look where that got us.”

“Please. I regret everything I’ve done.” Sebastian takes Kaylub’s hands and Kaylub can feel how cold they are. “No matter what happens next, I’m glad we met.” He smiles at him before leaving.

“Poor Sebastian.” Ominis spoke up as Kaylub turned and walked over to him.

“Ominis, I-”

“What a mess. After I parted with you, I went straight to Hogwarts. Before I even had a chance to talk to Black, I got a letter from Anne. I found her with Solomon’s body. She was beside herself with grief. Part of her wants him to face the consequences of his actions– another part can’t bear the thought of it. I don’t want to lose Sebastian, but I don’t think we have a choice.” His voice was choked with tears he was holding back. Kaylub gently took his hand and they too were cold.

“We can’t send him there. I’ve been there, it’s no place for someone who genuinely regrets what he’s done. And think of his sister. Anne already lost her uncle, I doubt she wants to lose her brother as well.”

“You’re right. She’ll listen if I go speak to her.”

“One last thing, Ominis,” Kaylub was still holding his hand. “You’re a good friend.” Kaylub feels a squeeze of his hand.

“As are you.”

Kaylub goes to Ollivanders and hands over the materials. He receives an owl from Poppy about meeting Dorran and decides to do that after the visit.

“Here you are. I imagine a wand like this only serves one purpose.” Kaylub thanked him and left, finding the streets empty.

“Hello,” Kaylub instantly had his wand up as Rookwood arrived. “Now, no need for theatrics. I simply want to talk now that our interests align.”

“Our interests have never aligned.” Kaylub kept his wand aimed at him and a grip on the box tight.

“You would let Goblins take what rightfully belongs to wizardkind!” He then notices the box in Kaylub’s right hand. “Does that box have something to do with our mutual interest?” Kaylub puts the box away.

“I have no clue what you’re talking about.” Rookwood raises a brow at that.

“That repository is my birthright!”

“Charlies Rookwood would never want you to have it.”

“The arrogance. That’s why I’ve always said children should be seen, not heard.”

Kaylub’s eyes widened. It was you. His whole demeanour faltered and something snapped in him.

Too late did he notice the hand on his shoulder and soon he found himself fighting against Rookwood’s lot.

He battled waves of opponents before Rookwood himself joined the fight. 

“Avada Kedavra!” Kaylub countered it and won the fight blasting Rookwood back, but more of his goons showed up and the battle continued.

Rookwood then attacked again with the killing curse and Kaylub was done seeing the curse and used his ancient magic making Rookwood explode into purple mist like he did with the troll back in Hogsmeade. That was for Anne.

“Natty will be happy to hear about this.” And the Keepers need to see this. He patted his pocket, but before returning, he went to see Poppy in the woods. Creatures always come first.

Meeting up with Dorran and Poppy, Kaylub learned that Dorran had forscene all of this involving the Snidgets.

“You will find the carving in the mountains south of here.”

The two set off.

Kaylub was happy that there didn’t seem to be a lot of fighting involved as the two solved the moonstone puzzle and entered the ruins which were overrun by flora.

“Poppy, you should do better at covering your tracks.” Shame that peace didn’t last long.

Kaylub and Poppy fought against poachers before Dorran and Elik arrived and joined the fight. They then get Elik’s approval and find the Snidgets which Dorren promises the centaurs will protect forever.

“I want to stay here a bit longer. I’ll meet you back at the castle.”

“Okay.” Kaylub returned and prepared for whatever was waiting for him in the last repository.

“Kaylub!” Poppy came over to him as he was on his way down to the Map room after preparing in the Room of Requirement.

“I thought you would have spent longer with the creatures.”

“I had to come back and say thank you. When the poachers arrived, I was glad to have someone beside me.”

“I’m glad to help a friend.”

“It’s good to have human friends. We should grab a butterbeer at some point.”

“Yeah,” If I come back alive. “Stay out of trouble.”

“You’re one to talk. Now that I’ve fought two groups of poachers and made it out alive, I might start looking for trouble.” The two share a laugh before Poppy heads off to go see Highwing. Kaylub sighs and steels himself as he continues on his journey.

Kaylub enters the map chamber and goes over to Professor Fig.

“Victor Rookwood is dead. He ambushed me after I got the wand and I had to fight him.” His voice was cold and he honestly didn’t feel a thing despite having killed another person.

“Godric’s heart.”

“He would have killed me once he found out how to get to the Repository. I did what I had to do.” Kaylub felt Professor Fig put a hand on his shoulder.

“That you did. The wizarding community owes you a great debt. Shall we see what the Keeper’s have for us?” Kaylub nodded and walked over.

Each gave him a spiel based on what he had learned and that he would know when to use the wand. With that the map fades and drains away revealing a staircase down. 

The two enter and see a labyrinth of tunnels and greenery, but no signs of goblins.

“Good, that means we got here before them.” And that lead didn’t last long as the goblins arrived.

“Let’s go, we need to find the repository before Ranrok.” Kaylub nodded, agreeing.

“Professor, where are the other Professors?” Kaylub asked as they battled many goblins and even armoured trolls before entering an area filled with Goblins and armoured trolls.

The other Professors arrived at that moment and Kaylub was glad to see them.

“Come on.” Kaylub followed Professor Fig as the two ran through the heated battlefield with Professor’s and Goblins fighting.

They get to a point where they have to fight and Professor Sharp joins in covering Kaylub as he sends a few flying.

“Leave some for me, Kid.” He says seeing how Kaylub had taken down three Goblins with Confringo while also using Protego to block an attacking Goblin which Sharp quickly got rid of.

Then an armoured troll arrived and Professor Sharp was quick to use Expulso, sending the troll into a pillar before it went into an abyss.

“Kid!” Professor Sharp yelled as the pillar was coming down over Kaylub.

“Protego!” The impact never happened as Professor Weasly got the pillar.

“That’s our path.” Professor Fig called as Kaylub was quick to follow. The two travelled over the bridge followed by some Goblins, but Professor Weasley let go of the charm sending the goblins into the abyss.

Kaylub took a few heavy breaths as he looked back over to see the Professors fighting.

“Let’s go.” Kaylub nodded and followed Professor Fig over to where they could see the door guarded.

The guards started to move and Kaylub pulled out the wand which stopped them and unlocked the door.

“We beat Ranrok here. That must be the repository. This is what Miriam, George, your friend Lodgok, all of them died for. Miriam believed that it could be used for good, but she didn’t know the risks that came with it. What do you intend to do with it?” Fig asked as Kaylub looked back at him.

“I’ll keep the repository as it is.”

“I’m glad to hear, though I do wonder?”

“What is it?”

“I wonder if keeping this a secret was the best idea. What if I had told Professor Weasley sooner, hadn’t kept this all a secret? The Keepers wanted this secret to be locked away forever. How long will you keep it?”

“I don’t know. But I know I will trust my friends when the time comes with the truth.”

“I’m sure that’s what Miriam wanted as well. For people to trust each other.” The two look over and see Ranrok had arrived.

“The arrogance of wizardkind. Goblins built this repository, it belongs to us!”

“It never belonged to you!” Kaylub yells as the two prepare their wands.

“I’ve been waiting to use this.” Ranrok pulls out a wand.

“Miriam’s wand.”

“Arrogant witch. If she had only given me the container she wouldn’t be dead.” Fig lashes out. “You’re just like her.” He attacks, but misses the people, though that wasn’t his target. He destroys the container and absorbs it to become a dragon. 

He separates Fig and Kaylub as Kaylub watches Fig disappear in some rubble. He goes down a separate path and the fight begins.

He battles Ranrok in his dragon form using the same tactics he did with the sentinels and it turns out quite effective allowing him to use his spells. The entire place was crumbling down around them, but Kaylub’s only focus was getting rid of Ranrok.

And he did, but not without suffering fatigue. He notices part of the cave falling and tries to hold it up, but he isn’t strong enough as Professor Fig then arrives to help.

“You’ve got to contain it!” Fig shouts as Kaylub focuses on the magic flowing around and containing it, but he’s not strong enough. 

You’re stronger than you know. Kaylub looked at Professor Fig, but he was busy holding up and Kaylub yells out as he uses every last bit of his energy to contain the magic.

He then hears laboured breathing and looks to see Professor Fig laying on the ground. He rushes over.

“Miriam.” He hears Professor Fig mumble and places her wand in his hands. “She would have loved you, Kaylub. We’re leaving the wizarding world in good hands.” His eyes then close and his hands slip from Kaylub’s, as he still grips the wand.

The school holds a funeral for Professor Fig as Kaylub sits in the back quietly. He can’t hear what they’re saying as his mind is filled with anger. He needed an outlet.

“Kaylub. I’m sorry about Professor Fig, I didn’t know him well, but he seemed like a good man.” Sebastian had caught Kaylub on his way out. “I wish my uncle could have gotten the same.”

“Sebastian. I cannot even comprehend what you and Anne must be going through right now. There is something I do need to tell you and ask of you.”

“Yes?”

“It wasn’t a goblin that cursed your sister, it was Rookwood. Right before he took me away, he mentioned the phase you told me your sister heard before she was cursed.”

“No, that can’t be right. It has to be goblins. My sister said that there were goblins all around.”

“Rookwood was working with the Goblins. They were both interested in Ismelda’s home. He was there.”

“He cursed my sister just for being there. How cruel. Thank you for telling me. I need to meet with Anne if she’ll see me. Now what is it you needed to ask of me?”

“I want to learn Crucio.” Sebastian’s eyes go wide as Kaylub holds up his hand. “Please don’t ask why.” Sebastian just nods.

“I’ll teach it to you, just meet me in the Undercroft.” Sebastian then left as Kaylub watched him leave.

Chapter Text

Kaylub met with Sebastian in the Undercroft as Spring arrived, but Kaylub couldn’t feel the warmth.

“Anne wanted to turn me in, but Ominis convinced her otherwise. She says the guilt I have to live with is punishment enough. Worst of all, I think I lost my sister. My twin. She never wants to see me again. I can’t blame her. I couldn’t really blame any of you if you gave up on me entirely. You all believed in me. And I let you all down.”
“Anne may just need time.”
“I hope so. I will try to make up for my mistakes for the rest of my days. I can’t thank you and Ominis enough for staying by my side. Even when I was out of line.”
“You didn’t make it easy. But I had a sense about you when we first met in Defence Against the Dark Arts.”
“That feels so long ago. I truly do value our friendship… that’s why I have to ask, are you sure you want to learn the Cruciatus Curse?” His eyes were filled with worry as he looked at Kaylub, noticing the cold eyes.
“I’m sure.” He watched the Slytherin sigh.
“Okay, now watch what I do and remember, you have to mean it for the curse to work.”
“I know.” Sebastian taught him the curse and Kaylub gave him a smile that didn’t reach his eyes.

Kaylub went and talked to Professor Weasley about his Field Guide and how the O.W.L.s were coming up.

Kaylub left the castle finding it hard to stay inside when all he could think about was Professor Fig. He then felt the pull of Ancient magic and decided to find all the loose strands of Ancient magic. I have to put this all to rest… for them.
Doing that made him feel slightly calmer, but taking on Trolls, Spiders, Dark Mongols, and Dugbogs aided his rage, but only a bit.
It was only after taking down a poachers camp that the rage started to truly calm down and he started to feel truly better. He donned a red mask and darker attire as he changed his targets to the bandit camps that were everywhere. Goblins, Ashwinders, and Poacher’s alike weren’t safe from his rage. It was a cold rage that made his strikes like lightning.
“Ranrok will be avenged!” that goblin was the first Crucio victim and Kaylub felt a rush of relief he wasn’t expecting hearing the goblin’s cries of pain. Is this what it feels like? The feeling was intoxicating and warm.

He then received a letter from Natty about Harlow. We end this now.
Kaylub met up with Natty who was waiting.
“New look?” Natty asked as Kaylub was still wearing his red mask.
“That letter you got wasn’t from Mrs. Bickle was it?” He chose not to answer her question.
“No, I believe it is an ambush from Harlow.”
“Then let’s go.” Natty agreed and the two headed towards the location.
“I informed officer Singer of our actions.”
“Are you not worried about your mother finding out?”
“She will most likely tell her, but I feel my mother already knows. I know I won’t be safe from the Ashwinders until everyone is.”

The two enter the trap and Kaylub is quick to engage in combat with the Ashwinders. He refrains from casting Crucio as Natty is with him. But then Harlow shows up.
“Seems Natsai Omai and her loyal companion have caused quite the trouble. What was a minor inconvenience has now become a cumbersome nuisance.” He attacks and Kaylub is quick to take him down with his ancient magic lifting him off the ground and slamming him down a few times.
“Avada Kedavra!” Kaylub fought against the spell like he did with Rookwood and won, bringing the man to his knees.
Kaylub turned away to go help Natty, but Harlow wasn’t finished yet.
“Crucio!”
“No!” Natty shifted into her gazelle form and jumped in front of Kaylub taking the hit. Kaylub was about to cast the spell right back at him, but Officer Singer had arrived along with Natty’s mother. Kaylub looked over at Natty to see her back in human form and unconscious.

The three return to Hogwarts as Kaylub takes off his mask and the three go to the Hospital wing.
“How are you feeling?” Kaylub asked as Professor Omai moved off to the side.
“Better than my mother thinks. I’m just glad we were able to take them down. With Rookwood dead and Harlow going on trial, the rest are on the run, though I doubt they’ll be able to run for long.”
“You didn’t have to take the hit for me. I could have taken it.” I have taken it before.
“Do not feel guilty. I moved on instinct.”
“So I don’t have to feel guilty?”
“No-oh, oh how am I only just realising this.” Kaylub smiled as Natty realises that she doesn’t have to feel guilty over her father’s death as he was just acting on his instinct to protect her.
“I’m glad we became friends.” Natty brought up as Kaylub nodded.
“As am I.” He then took his leave. He still felt more Ancient Magic out in the Highlands.

“Kaylub! Kaylub, wait! Will you stop!” Sebastian was out of breath as Kaylub came to a stop before the floo station he intended to use.
“We’ve been looking for you everywhere. Both here in Hogwarts and in Hogsmeade. You’ve been gone for days.” Ominis’ voice was soft as he stood by Sebastian.
“I’m sorry, but I’m quite busy. Bainburgh.” He disappears into the floo and arrives at his destination.

“Do you really think we were going to give up that easily?” Sebastian steps through the floo and sees Kaylub put on the red mask. He then noticed the darker attire than normal. He notices the gloves are red as well.
“What have you been doing?” His voice had gone soft with worry as Ominis came out of the floo as well.
“I’ve felt these hotspots of Ancient magic around and are going to contain them.”
“And?” Ominis asked as he felt that wasn’t all.
“There are still camps filled with bandits that I have to get rid of. Please, just go back to the castle.” His voice softened when he asked them to leave.
“Kaylub, why are you pushing us away? After everything we’ve been through, why now?”
“Because I’m angry!” Kaylub shouts as tears flood his eyes. The genuine concern from those he cared for broke through the icy wall. “I’m-I’m so angry a-and there’s nothing you can do. I couldn’t save Professor Fig, I couldn’t save Anne, I couldn’t help you, I failed Ominis, I-” Kaylub has to take off his mask as the tears start to fall hot down his cheeks.
“Wait, Anne isn’t your fault and my actions are all my own.”
“And you didn’t fail me. You’ve helped me in so many ways. That’s what I love about you. You’re kind and are always thinking of others, even when they don’t deserve it.” He looked towards Sebastian.
“Now let us help you.”
“O-okay, I still want to get these Hotspots.” He wipes away his tears as he calms down.
“And we’ll fight right beside you when it comes to the camps.”
“Precisely.”
“Thank you,” Kaylub smiles brightly, this time reaching his eyes. “Both of you. Now, I felt it coming from over here.” Kaylub turns and leads the way.
“Don’t think I didn’t hear what you said, Ominis.”
“Jealous as always, Sallow? Maybe you shouldn’t have made his cry.” Ominis smirks as he pulls out his wand walking ahead of the speechless Sebastian.

Reaching the place whether the ancient magic was wasn’t hard and Kaylub managed to collect the three spirals and felt the magic enter him and felt stronger in a way. He’d felt this before as he collected the ancient magic, but wasn’t focused on it.
“Kaylub! Are you okay up there?” Sebastian asked as Kaylub had climbed and jumped his way up to the roof of the ruined manor they were in.
“I’m fine, I’m coming down now.” And by that, he meant he was jumping from the roof and summoning his broom right before he actually hit the ground.
“Merlin! Don’t ever do that again!” Ominis shouts as Kaylub lands near him. He placed his hand over his heart as he turned to face Kaylub.
“Are you alright Ominis?” Kaylub asked as he got off his broom to stand next to him.
“I’m fine, but that was dangerous. I may not have been able to see what you did, but do know I can feel it.” This earned him a soft giggle from Kaylub.
“I’ll keep that in mind.” The smile vanished as Kaylub suddenly saw an Inferi rise from the ground. “Confringo!” The fire blast alone was enough to destroy the Inferi.
“We should go, there may be more around.” Kaylub’s voice was cold as he turned to leave. Ominis nodded and followed.

When they first encountered a camp, Sebastian was shocked as Kaylub had gone in wand blazing when he normally would have gone the stealthy route. But what got him the most was how he really didn’t need either of their help as he decimated the entire camp.
“It won’t be that easy to take down Rookwood’s lo-”
“Crucio!” Kaylub watched as the Ashwinder withered in pain without any emotion on his own face. He then attacked him, killing him.
“How do you know that curse?” Ominis asked as he went over to Kaylub’s side.
“I taught him.” Sebastian also came over.
“Why would you do that?” Ominis glared in Sebastian’s direction.
“Because he asked and I trust him with this.”
“It’s an unforgivable for a reason. Kaylub, I thought we swore to never use the Dark Arts.” Ominis’ gaze causes Kaylub to look away.
“I know, but I was so angry. I thought fighting spiders, dark mongols, Dugbogs, and Trolls would help, but it didn’t. Then I found some Poachers and I started to feel better. Taking down these bandit camps has helped much more than any creature would and when one of the Goblin’s brought up Ranrok, Crusio came out and it felt like I had transferred my pain and anger away. I felt so much better.”
“Please, using the dark arts will only lead to suffering, it’s a slippery slope.”
“I know, Ominis. It-”
“No, if you know then don’t use it. You didn’t want to learn it before and you’ve felt the effects of the curse on yourself, why would you change your mind?”
“Professor Fig is dead!” Kaylub shouted as he fully came to terms with his loss. “He’s really gone.” Ominis was quick to catch Kaylub before he fully collapsed. WIth everything Kaylub has been doing, he never gave himself actual time to grieve especially with his anger. He clung to Ominis like his life depended on it and just cried. The two remained with Kaylub until he calmed down.
“Let’s go back.”
“Are you done?” Sebastian asked as Kaylub nodded.
“I can’t feel any traces of Ancient Magic around and I should be studying for my O.W.L.s instead of chasing down criminals.”

“Well look what I found.” The three turn to see Professor Sharp with his arms crossed.
“P-Professor Sharp, we can explain.” Sebastian was quick to start.
“Sallow, Gaunt, return to the common room. I must speak to Usinagi, alone.” His eyes were focused on Kaylub who looked back at him. “Now.”
The two boys give their leave as Professor Sharp watches them go before looking at Kaylub.
“Care to explain where you were?”
“I was finishing some things.”
“And did you finish all you set out to do?” He watched as Kaylub took a second to think.
“Yes, I did.”
“Good, here, this should help you sleep tonight.” He hands Kaylub a Dreamless Sleep Potion. “And do remember, we are here for you.”
“Thank you, Professor.”
“Of course.”

The rest of the year was spent studying, taking care of his creatures, hanging with his friends, and taking the O.W.L.s and then the end-of-the-year feast was upon them.

Kaylub entered after the others and Headmaster Black was actually giving a good speech, even with the students interrupting to cheer for their house, and he was about to announce the winner for the House Cup when Professor Weasley walked up. She ended up rewarding Kaylub 100 points for saving Hogwarts and accomplishing so much despite only just arriving at Hogwarts.
“Which means Hufflepuff wins the House Cup!” Kaylub is surrounded by his Hufflepuff friends as they all celebrate the win. Kaylub could see through them Ominis and Sebastian smiling as Sebastian raises his glass to him after catching his eyes.

In that moment, Kaylub knew that the years to come wouldn’t be so bad.