Chapter 1: Prologue
Notes:
This story takes the characters of One Piece and places them into Harry Potter's world, particularly at Hogwarts. The protagonist is a female!reader currently in her sixth year and there will be no OCs.
Just a few things to keep in mind as you read:
- the age of some characters has been adjusted to fit them in the school
- since we don't know many last names in OP, some are made up. I tried to keep them clear, but feel free to ask if you don't recognise someone
- Mikita is the canon name for Miss Valentine
- I do my best to keep the characters IC (so please let me know if something feels off), but there will be some slight OOC for a few minor characters (for example Weevil is depicted more malicious than he actually is in the manga, for plot's sake)
Thank you for reading and I hope you enjoy!
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Kozuki Momonosuke weighted the wand in his little hand. A light smile appeared on Rayleigh's face at the gesture.
«Do you like it, young boy? It is very rare for me to match a wizard with a cherry wand.»
The child raised his marvelled eyes on the wand-maker.
«Really?»
«Sure. In Mahoutokoro, the Japanese school of wizardry, students with cherry wands have special prestige. The Kozuki family is from there, isn't it? This wand probably felt it and chose you.»
A pleased grin started to form on Momonosuke's lips as his eyes glued back to the wand and his grip grew firmer.
«So this is my wand...»
«You can trust Master Rayleigh, Momonosuke.» you said confidently, patting his head «He's the best wand-maker of the country, maybe of the continent. Every witch and wizard of our era was matched by him!»
«Now, Y/n, you're too generous.»
Rayleigh waved away the compliment with a light movement of his hand.
«Thank you, Rayleigh-dono!» Momonosuke said solemnly, bowing in front of the old man.
«You're welcome, young wizard.»
The child couldn't help but smile back at the new title he just acquired.
«Now let's get going!» you chimed, clapping your hands to bring him back to the real word «We have tons of shopping to do, and the school starts tomorrow!»
«How are things in Hogwarts? Lively as ever?» Rayleigh asked, while he put back all the wands which failed to match with Momonosuke.
«I guess.» you shrugged «I mean, if you don't consider Luffy and his Gryffindor crew saving the magic world every other year, things are pretty smooth.»
The old wizard giggled.
«That Luffy! I am really curious to see what will happen this year.»
His sentence made you quirk an eyebrow.
«What do you mean?»
He gave you an enigmatic look, but his gaze went back to his business soon enough.
«Nothing special, just saying.»
You stared at his back in suspicion, but Momonosuke tugged your sleeve, claiming your attention.
«Come on, Y/n-senpai! We need to go!»
«Sure.»
You both gave Rayleigh one last greet and proceeded along Diagon Alley to purchase everything you needed for Momonosuke first and your sixth year at Hogwarts.
The day passed quickly with all the shopping. Momonosuke looked enthusiast about his new adventure, and his happiness made you glad for accepting to escort him through his supplies.
Kin'emon was more than willing to go with him, but he eventually thought it was better for him to be with someone who was less of a parent and more of a peer. Since you also had to buy your stuff last minute (like every year), he asked you.
It was refreshing to go through first day's eve all over again.
Last stop happened to be Madame Malkin's Robes for all Occasions.
While trying a neutral uniform, Momonosuke expression furrowed for the first time.
«What's the issue?» you asked, looking at him through the mirror.
Before he could answer, a young blond girl jumped in front of the mirror beside him, with a uniform far too long for her and an unusual cat hanging from her shoulder.
«Graaaaaanny! This robe is super!!»
«Slow down, Chimney!»
But the old woman was laughing while saying that. She also seemed completely drunk. You recognized her as the train conductor of the Hogwarts Express.
«Oh, what about you?!» the girl uttered, turning to Momonosuke. He took a little step back, hit by her over-enthusiasm.
«Grandma, look! He's also coming to Hogwarts tomorrow!! Which House do you want to be sorted in? I want to go to Gryffindor! The coolest wizards come from that one!»
«I...»
«But Ravenclaw is also super cool! Do you think I can go to Ravenclaw, granny?»
The old woman let out a coarse laugh.
«I think you're not smart enough, my little Chimney!»
To your surprise, the girl grinned at that.
These two sure are strange.
Once out of the shop, both of you carrying half a dozen shopping bags, you notice Momonosuke's slight frown was back on his face.
«Hey, what's wrong, Momo? I can tell something is bothering you.»
«It's just...» he pouted «I keep thinking about the Sorting Ceremony.»
«Haaa, I see. Everybody is stressed about it. It sure is a very important moment in the life of a wizard.»
The boy raised his head at you, even more worried.
«It is, right?»
«Yes, the House will become a constant of your life. Even after Hogwarts, you're sorta always bound to the people of your House... but nothing to be worried about!»
You tried to offer him your most reassuring smile.
«It's okay! Every House has his pros and cons, and you should be proud of it anyway.»
A grimace entered his features.
«It's easy for you to say! No one mocks a Slytherin!»
You shrugged.
«Maybe not, but they sure talk behind our backs. We have a long history of Dark Arts and racism against the muggle-born.»
«I just...»
«What are you worried about anyway? Is there a particular House you'd like to join?»
The Kozuki was a high-class wizard family, but they didn't belong to a particular House, like sometimes happened in ancient families. Their members were scattered among all four.
Momonosuke looked a little embarrassed by your question, and he averted his eyes from you.
«I just... don't wanna end up in Hufflepuff.» he muttered, his voice fading.
You blinked and, despite your effort to stay serious, couldn't help the laugh that erupted from your mouth. His eyes widened and the boy blushed heavily.
«I'm sorry, I'm sorry!» you said through the giggles «It's just always the same story! No one wants to end up in Hufflepuff! But let me tell you something about it.»
Finally serious again, you wiped away a little tear from the corner of your eye.
«Everybody thinks weaklings belong to Hufflepuff, but you know what? One of the worst bullies of the school, right now, is from there.»
Momonosuke seemed puzzled by the statement.
«Is he?»
«Yes! His name is Edward Weevil, and while sure he's dumb, I can assure no one would doubt his strength. Try to avoid him, by the way.»
He nodded and you tapped your chin.
«Then, let me think... oh, the head teacher of Hufflepuff, Prof. Jinbe, is certainly a badass! He will teach you flying. And isn't one of your guardian, O-Kiku, from Hufflepuff as well?»
You kept talking about the most impressive people you knew from the House until you got back to the Leaky Cauldron, and you managed to cheer him up a little.
Finally the morning after came, and you confidently entered the platform 9 ¾ with your luggage. Tokoyami, your raven, cawed from your shoulder like every year.
«Aw, come on, don't start complaining.»
He lifted his beak in annoyance, before taking his leave to reach Hogwarts on his own.
«Okaaay, see ya.»
«Y/n!»
Perona and Ginrummy were waving at you in the crowd of students and families, both wrapped in their Slytherin uniform. The Hogwarts Express was already there.
«Hi girls!» you greeted, reaching them.
«We were waiting for you. You're always late!» Perona pouted.
You huffed and pushed her towards the train.
«Get in, pinkie!»
Ginrummy sighed, used to your behaviour.
You quickly searched the crowd with your eyes, trying to catch Momonosuke or Kin'emon, but there were too many people to spot them. Some of them were known faces, and you threw a few "hi" here and there, before following your friends inside.
«Let's go find a quiet compartment, shall we?» Ginrummy asked, proceeding along the narrow corridor.
Perona was glancing at the various glasses.
«Because the miss here was so late, they're all already occupied!»
One of the compartments sprang open at your passage, and a blond guy in Gryffindor colours flied in front of you, bending his knee.
«What a beautiful trio of princesses! Please, feel free to join us!»
The pinkette lifted her chin in disgust.
«Get away, you Gryffindor weirdo!»
You tugged her aside.
«Don't mind her, Sanji! She's on her period.»
«WHAT?! You bitch.»
You ignored her, smiling to the blond. Luffy peeped out from the same compartment, his unknotted red and gold tie hanging from his neck.
«Hey guys! Nice to see you again, shihihihihihi!»
«Luffy, come back inside and let me finish with your uniform!» Nami yelled, grasping him from the collar and pulling him back.
«You come in too, stupid Casanova, or we'll leave you out.» Zoro said to the blonde, ready to close the door. Sanji jumped on his feet to face him.
«What did you say, you idiotic moron?»
Ginrummy took the chance to push both you and Perona forward.
The second obstacle was dodging the series of charms that were flying around, since Sabo and Ace apparently thought it was a good idea to start a duel in the middle of the train. The children of the first year were running all around in terror.
Perona massaged her temples with her long fingers.
«These stupid Gryffindors will be the death of me.» she cried.
«Not just of you.»
«Girls, I spotted an empty compartment!» Ginrummy called you.
You and Perona rushed through it, but not quickly enough.
Tattooed fingers leaned on the door handle before you could reach it.
«Trafalgar Law!» Perona squealed, already in fighting mood «Move, we were here first!»
The Ravenclaw guy briefly glanced at you.
«Doesn't look like it.» he quietly observed with his low voice.
Three other Ravenclaw were surrounding him. You recognized Penguin, Shachi and Bepo. Those three were following Law around since the first year.
You stepped in, ready to back Perona up, when an imposing figure joined the knot you formed in the corridor.
«Are there any problems, girls? Is the creep bothering you?»
Uh-oh.
Sparks gushed in the air when Law's gaze met the redhead's amber eyes.
A little sigh of exasperation escaped your mouth.
Already?!
Perona and Ginrummy seemed pleased by the entrance of your housemate.
«Eustass Kid.» Law crossed his arms on his chest «You look even paler than last year. I bet vampire activity is stressing in summer, isn't it?»
Kid's scowl grew threatening as his hand reached for the wand. But Law was prepared, and he mirrored the gesture.
«Please, you two!» you shouted, throwing yourself in between «Children are watching!»
They both turned to the little group of first year students who gathered nearby, eyes widened in dread.
You put one hand on each of their chest, applying a little pressure to make them back off.
«I think you can wait till the Duelling Club starts again!»
The two of them kept glaring at each other, but at least their arms relaxed.
«Fine!» Kid scoffed «Just because a fellow Slytherin is asking.»
You smirked at him.
«Come on girls, I think we can find another compartment... we don't wanna leave some poor Ravenclaw homeless, you know birds need to feel safe.»
Perona puffed her cheeks at your words, but Kid and Ginrummy sneered.
«Hey, you...!»
Penguin looked insulted, but Law just opened the compartment and made his way in.
Kid pointed out that the compartment beside his could still be empty, so you followed him along the corridor.
«How was your summer?» you cheerfully asked.
The moment when everyone was reunited again on the train was your favourite every year. Eustass Kid was considered one of the worst bullies in the school, but he never burst against someone of his own House, and you were one of the few people who got along pretty well with him.
«It was okay, nothing special. What about you?»
You shrugged.
«Same. I spent most of my time by the sea in Southern Europe.»
«Right. You and your sea.»
You both smirked.
The compartment was indeed empty, so you briefly greeted Killer, Heat and Wire, and you finally sat with your girlfriends.
«Y/n...»
You blinked at their malicious grins.
«What?»
«We saw that.»
«Saw what?»
«Oh, c'mon!»
Ginrummy leaned on her seat.
«You and Kid!»
You rolled your eyes.
«Can we please get over this already? We have been in the same House for five years, we were just chatting!»
«Exactly. Except Eustass Kid doesn't chat with girls.» Perona commented, while Ginrummy nodded.
«Yeah. You're the only one he talks to, haven't you noticed?»
«You two are crazy.» you huffed, tapping your temple with your index finger.
The travel proceeded quietly. You talked about your summer, the projects you had for the year and some other frivolous stuff.
After a few hours, someone knocked lightly on your glass.
You had actually fallen asleep (as you did more or less every time you were left unwatched), so it was Ginrummy to open the door, as Perona shook you awake.
«Hello girls.»
You rubbed your face.
«Here.»
Someone handed you a hot thermos and a little cup.
«C-coffee?»
«Let me!»
Ginrummy took it for you and poured the hot liquid in the cup.
«I figured out you'll need it.»
You squinted at the newcomer.
«Reiju?»
The Ravenclaw girl sat in front of you, extending her long legs on the seat beside.
«It's nice to see you again, you troublemaker.»
Perona curled her lips.
«You have to stop spoiling her!»
«No, don't stop! Don't ever stop!» you cried in happiness, sipping at your coffee. Reiju chuckled.
«How was your summer?» Ginrummy asked.
The pinkette shrugged.
«Stressing. Our father forced us to train everyday, as always.»
She didn't look stressed at all, to be honest. She was beautiful and perfectly composed.
«Anyway, I came to talk about something.»
Reiju smiled enigmatically.
«What is it?»
It was strange though, she wasn't a gossip girl.
«My father was called by the Ministry of Magic quite a lot of times this summer.» she started «He wouldn't speak in front of us, but I heard him say "Hogwarts" a couple of times.»
You exchanged puzzled glances with the others.
«I don't have more information right now, but something big seems to be coming down the pike.»
«And why did you come to tell us?» Ginrummy asked, frowning «Of course we're friends, but what if it involves a competition between the Houses or something?»
«It's true! You Ravenclaw would be advantaged by being the only one to know!» Perona agreed.
Reiju's smile didn't quiver a bit.
«You know I'm not so rigid about this hole House thing. I've got three brothers in Slytherin and one in Gryffindor, after all. I already informed Sanji, and I guess Ichiji sensed something as well.»
You couldn't help but chuckle.
«That leaves just Hufflepuff out.»
They all sneered.
«Anyway, this is not the only reason.» Reiju continued, crossing her legs «I also wanted this little troublemaker to know. It's fun when you're involved, and somehow you're always involved.»
You blushed lightly, deepening your face in your green and silver scarf.
It was true.
Your first year, you were the only one in Moaning Myrtle's bathroom when it exploded and the revolution of the ghosts began, and this leaded to a series of quarrels where you were the first suspect. The second year was the one of the Trolls' attack, but since you were asleep when it started, you just found yourself behind the enemy line with Zoro (who got lost). During the third year, Edward Weevil broke Prof. Mihawk's pensieve, throwing half of the castle in a living gothic nightmare, and since you were one of the few students of Oneiricy and Occlumancy, you were called to help and save the day. On your fourth year, you overheard Prof. Eneru secretly talking to his assistants of his plan to invade the school and steal the Lost Arc, so he tried to kill you until Prof. Lucci stepped in. The fifth year was more or less fine, you just got almost eaten by the Acromantulas during detention in the Forbidden Forest, but you would call it a success.
«No Reiju, I'm done with that crap.» you solemnly said «This year I just want to focus on class and Quiddich.»
She lifted an eyebrow.
«Sure.»
Of course you had never been so wrong in your life. But you still couldn't know it.
It felt good to go back in the Great Hall and see so many known faces.
Luffy's Gryffindor group was the loudest, as always. Ace and Sabo could compete though.
On Hufflepuff's table, Edward Weevil sat in the centre, coarsely eating, spilling food on his mates, although no one dared to question his manners. Koby looked like he wanted to protest, but Helmeppo and Rebecca held him back.
Ravenclaw's table was the quietest, with most of the girls sighing for Law, and most of the boys sighing for Reiju. Hawkins was already bent on his cards, with Apoo taunting him.
You sat on Slytherin's table between your friends and Kid's gang, while the children entered the hall escorted by Franky.
They looked terrified.
Gekko Moria, Slytherin's ghost, flew through them, scaring them even more.
«That asshole.» Cavendish commented, taking a seat in front of you.
You spotted Momonosuke and tried to wave at him, but the boy was far too stressed to notice you.
«Who's the guy beside Prof. Fushichō?» Dellinger asked curiously.
You turned to the professors.
There was a tall dark-haired man, sat between Prof. Fushichō and Prof. Akagami.
«Things start to get suspicious!» Perona uttered in delight.
The Sorting Ceremony was exciting, like every year. You yelped when Momonosuke was sorted Slytherin and happily joined you on the table near Sugar, another new acquisition of the House. Chimney was sorted Gryffindor.
Although he was rather distant from you, you winked at the boy and he answered with a relieved smile.
After dinner, one of the two Prof. Donquixote clapped his hands and all the leftovers disappeared. Also, one Gryffindor's flag was set on fire, so the other Prof. Donquixote clicked his fingers with a huff, extinguishing the flames.
Prof. Edward, or Principal Whitebeard as everybody called him, stood in all his impressive height.
«My students!» his ponderous voice thundered «Welcome to another year in Hogwarts! I hope this new beginning finds you well and full of energy!»
A lot of students shouted and clapped in reply, and the principal smiled proudly.
«First, the routine stuff: you will find your timetable in the common room of your houses, extracurricular activities will be open to sign up for the first week and Quiddich tournament starts on October 31st.»
«This year we're going to nail it!» Kid hissed to your side. You nodded resolute.
Whitebeard cleared his voice.
«Now, before saying goodnight, I have a very important announcement to make. I ask you to stay quiet and listen carefully until the end.»
He glared towards Gryffindor's table while saying so.
The silence fell on the Great Hall. It was nothing like Whitebeard to be so serious on the first day.
You felt a strange tension and grabbed Perona's sleeve. She grasped you back.
«This year would be very special. We worked hard to keep it a secret till the end, but from tomorrow the news will be covered and everyone will now.»
Now even Luffy was silent. All the students were exchanging glances with each other, confused.
You recalled Reiju's words.
Something big seems to be coming down the pike.
«The Magic Community have gathered, this summer. It has been a lot of years since the last Dark Lord was defeated in the Potter age, and we are now beneficing of a long period of peace. That's why we wanted to celebrate and tighten our bounds with the international community. And this involves the students of Hogwarts as protagonists.»
Everyone held their breath.
«I bet you've heard about the Triwizard Tournament.»
There was still a moment of silence, then the Great Hall basically exploded.
Most of the students were shouting in excitement, some other froze for the shock.
Your jaw nearly dropped on the table as Perona gasped and Kid laughed hard, patting Killer's shoulder.
It took several minutes for the professors to regain a trace of silence, and it was just when Prof. Dracule stood with a dark expression that most of the guys sat back on their seats.
«This is the reaction I wanted!» Whitebeard roared with a grin «But it's also true that the Tournament was linked to some horrible events in the past. We want to renew its name and make it a celebration for the whole magic world! So there has been some changes. First of all, let me introduce the person who's responsible for the organization in Hogwarts, Mr. Aokiji!»
The tall man stood with a sleepy expression on his face. He rubbed the back of his head and bowed lightly.
«Nice to meet you, young witches and wizards. I'm glad to see so many promising wands. Let me explain how the tournament will take place. There will be two phases: a local one, to select the champions for each school of Witchcraft, and the final one, where the said champions will compete. The first will take place during the year, while the second will be in summer, at an international level.»
Ginrummy leaned towards you.
«This means we'll have to compete against each other!»
«I advice you to focus on the first phase, which will be covered by the news of all country, and will consist in three dangerous tasks.» Aokiji said.
He extracted his wand and pointed it to a pedestal in front of the teachers' table.
There was a blue lamp, then the Goblet of Fire materialized.
A lot of students were startled at its sight.
«As you probably know,» the wizard continued «this is the Goblet of Fire. It will select the students for the first tournament, and its choice is an Unbreakable Vow, so I strongly advice you to think about it before submitting your name.»
As to confirm his words, the goblet erupted some blue sparks.
«Now, about the selection.» Aokiji yawned «Only students from the 5th, 6th and 7th year can enter the competition. The Goblet has been instructed not to accept any younger name. Another important modification: eight students will be selected for the first phase. One wizard and one witch for every House. Depending on the task, you could be asked to compete alone or as a team, but not necessarily with your housemate. It's all about boundaries, after all.»
The students remained silent, trying to absorb all the information.
«At the end, a champion and a reserve will be selected. As for the second phase, we'll talk about it in spring. Thanks for your attention.»
Aokiji sat back, and Whitebeard laughed at everyone's lost expression.
«Guarararara, you should see your faces! If you want to put your name in the Goblet of Fire, you have time until October 30th. On Halloween, after dinner, we will discover who is going to compete. It's all, boys and girls. I wish you a good night and don't forget to focus on your study!»
Notes:
This story takes the characters of One Piece and places them into Harry Potter's world, particularly at Hogwarts. The protagonist is a female!reader currently in her sixth year and there will be no OCs.
Just a few things to keep in mind as you read:
- the age of some characters has been adjusted to fit them in the school
- since we don't know many last names in OP, some are made up. I tried to keep them clear, but feel free to ask if you don't recognise someone
- Mikita is the canon name for Miss Valentine
- I do my best to keep the characters IC (so please let me know if something feels off), but there will be some slight OOC for a few minor characters (for example Weevil is depicted more malicious than he actually is in the manga, for plot's sake)
Thank you for reading and I hope you enjoy!
Chapter 2: Night in Slytherin common room
Chapter Text
Most of the students couldn't sleep at all, that night.
When they took their first step in, Momonosuke and the other newbies looked uneasy at the dark underwater atmosphere of the dungeon.
«You'll get used to it.» you smiled at him and Sugar «The sound of water is actually quite relaxing, and a lot of interesting things appear beyond the windows. You'll see.»
Still stunned by the scoop of the Triwizard Tournament, Slytherin common room stayed crowded till late night, but you could bet the situation wasn't different in the other Houses.
Sensing the environment was about to heat up, Charlotte Katakuri sent the youngest students in their dorms. He had been Slytherin's prefect since you joined, but this year he was the Head Boy of the school.
«Those hot-headed Gryffindors are probably screaming and jumping around in excitement.» Perona huffed, claiming an armchair in the corner of the room.
«Who do you think will put the name in the Goblet of Fire?» Ginrummy asked, sitting on an arm.
You took the closest armchair. You girls wisely avoided the places nearby the fire, since they were considered the alpha positions and, well, Slytherin had quite a problem with those. Let's say Slytherin had a problem with red-haired alphas, being Eustass Kid and Vinsmoke Ichiji both self-proclaimed leader of their year. The last thing you wanted was getting in a fight for the leadership with those two.
«Well, Luffy, Ace and Sabo from Gryffindor are an easy guess.» you started «And I would be surprised if Sanji and Zoro didn't try as well.»
«Ugh. They're all really annoying.»
«What about the girls? The tall man said a guy and a gal for each House will be selected.»
You shrugged.
«I have no idea. Maybe Carrot?»
Perona frowned.
«Who's Carrot?»
«The rabbit girl.»
«Oh yeah.»
«I just hope the Goblet won't choose Edward.» Gin sighed.
Your expression widened with horror.
«I didn't think about it! No, we cannot be represented by that beast!»
After a while, Ginrummy reached her best friend Mikita and the two of them soon retired in the girls' bedroom.
«What's your problem, you shitty Vinsmoke?»
You buried your head in the chair's back.
«Oh please, no.»
Ichiji e Kid had started another of their fights, probably about who had more rights to put his name in the Goblet of Fire.
«A filthy mudblood like you shouldn't even be allowed to approach the Goblet!» Niji hissed beside his brother. Yonji sneered at Kid.
The scowl on the taller redhead deepened ad his expression became ice.
«You didn't just call me mudblood.»
«But that's what you are!» Yonji chimed «You're blood is dirty like the asshole of a Gryffind–»
«Stupeficium!»
The green-haired Vinsmoke was hit by the spell on his forehead, immediately going down. This caused Ichiji and Niji to reach for their wands, and for Killer, Heat and Wire to jump by Kid's side, ready to fight.
You jolted toward Perona, throwing you both behind the armchair while at the same time you extracted your wand.
«Protego.»
Luckily, Katakuri was the fastest and casted a barrier between the two groups.
«Stop acting like children.» he ordered from the entrance of the gallery that leaded to the male dorms «We're all Slytherin here. It's our duty to stick together and support whoever will be chosen.»
The redheads grit their teeth at his words but, amazingly, didn't protest. Relying on the House pride was always a guarantee, and Katakuri knew that.
«I swear I love that Charlotte dude.» you sighed in relief, getting back to your seat.
Perona did the same.
«I hope he'll be the one who runs for us.»
Ichiji and Kid exchanged a murderous glare, then each one of them turned in the opposite direction. Yonji was left on the floor.
«Hey, troublemaker.»
The hiss behind your back made you shiver. Perona, in front of you, widened her eyes and you knew nothing good was coming.
You slowly rotated to meet Cracker's sharp eyes.
«Charlotte. How can I help you?»
«Oh, there is something.» he viciously smiled, crossing his arms on his muscular chest. You blinked, confused.
Cracker leaned over until your gazes were only inches from one another.
«Don't put your name in the Goblet of Fire.» he commanded.
You frowned.
«What?»
«You heard me. Smoothie is the female champion of Slytherin. No one can compete with her. So save yourself some troubles and don't go anywhere near the Goblet.»
«I wasn't planning to.» you hissed back «You may have just made me change my mind.»
He narrowed his eyes.
«Excuse me?»
«Is there any problem?»
You suddenly felt another imposing figure to your side.
«Killer!» Perona gasped.
The student put himself between you and Cracker.
«I believe your brother just said we should stick together no matter what.»
The Charlotte faced Killer.
«Don't give me your shit, mudblood. You know Smoothie is the best choice for the House.»
«This is a matter for the Goblet of Fire. And, personally, I think Y/n could perfectly represent the House.»
Your cheeks heated up at Killer's statement.
Cracker lifted his eyebrows.
«Well, she's not as mudblood as you, that's for sure.»
The blond tensed his fists, but once again, Katakuri stepped in.
«Brother Cracker.» he called lowly, but it was enough to restrain the other Charlotte.
The purple-haired guy glared at Killer, then at you.
«This is not over.» he whispered before walking away.
You let out a small sigh of relief.
«Thanks Killer.» you smiled «You didn't have to do it, though. I have no intention of signing up for this madness.»
«You don't?» he shrugged «I think you should.»
«Whaaat? C'mon, Cracker might be an asshole, but he's right. Smoothie is the best witch we have.»
«She didn't cause half the troubles you did in your first year.»
«I'm pretty sure this is an asset.»
He chuckled.
«As you prefer, Y/n. But think about it. Goodnight, girls.»
Killer lazily waved at you before heading to the male dorm.
«You know, I can see why Cracker felt the need to threaten you.» Perona commented.
You turned to her, confused.
«The need? I guess he just thought I was going to enlist.»
She shook her head.
«Don't think so. Think about it, Y/n: what is it that you do when you have spare time?»
You huffed.
«Mostly, I try to take a nap.»
«Exactly!» she clapped her hands «And what does usually happen next?»
«Something tries to eat me. Or explodes. Or both, in one occasion.»
«Correct.»
She smiled.
«Y/n, if you put your name in the Goblet of Fire there is absolutely no chance it won't choose you.»
You stare at her in horror. Perona was right!
«But this is not a problem!» you uttered, standing a little too fast «Because I'm not gonna! And now I'm going to sleep, so tomorrow I can get up, start the classes and have an absolutely normal and boring year at Hogwarts! Goodnight!»
You stiffly turned and marched towards the female dorm.
Perona rolled her eyes.
«I'm pretty sure that won't be the case.»
Chapter 3: Defence against the Dark Arts
Chapter Text
«Why none of you girls woke me up?!» you cried, rushing through the Great Hall when most of the people already joined their classes.
Perona, Ginrummy and Mikita were leaving indeed.
The pinkette huffed in her uniform.
«I tried! You almost punch me in the face, so I left you be.»
You groaned, jumping on Slytherin table to grab something off for your breakfast before running to your first class.
«Coffee! Coffee! Why is it all cold already??»
«Because you're late, that's why.» Ginrummy observed while you gave up and mixed some cold coffee with milk.
You gulped it down as fast as you could, and your eyes landed on the Goblet of Fire, standing on the pedestal in front of the teachers' table.
«Oh, yeah.» Mikita smiled, following your gaze «You lost the three Gryffindor's brats racing to it, this morning.»
The cup was abandoned on the messy table, and your group left the hall for your first lesson.
«You mean Ace, Sabo and Luffy, right?»
Mikita nodded.
«Has someone else put his name inside?»
Perona shrugged.
«Not that we have seen. But I'm positive a lot of Gryffindors will by the end of the day. You know how reckless they are.»
Ginrummy squinted at you.
«You're not thinking about putting your name in, are you?»
«Absolutely not! So, what is our first class? I think I left my timetable in the dorm.»
The three girls rolled their eyes.
«Of course you did!»
The blond consulted her paper, speeding up on the stairs.
«We have Defence Against the Dark Arts... ugh, with Gryffindor.»
You slapped a hand on your forehead.
«Oh no... not Professor Shanks first thing on Monday morning!»
«Welcome back, squirts!» Akagami Shanks grinned when you stepped in the class «Yeah, you too little troublemaker and crew. Late on first day, uh?»
You lowered your blushing face while your friends glared at you, but Shanks just giggled.
«It's okay, take a seat girls! I was about to start.»
Like always, all Slytherin students were on the left and all Gryffindor on the right. Now, it should be mentioned that the desks of the class could host three people each, and your friends were pretty fast in occupying the last one, leaving you standing alone, because obviously all the Slytherin ones were completed.
You glared at Perona, who sneered at you.
«What's the problem, Y/n? You can sit there.» the professor casually pointed one spare place on Gryffindor's side.
Once again, all the eyes in the class were on you. You plumbed the spaces among your mates, but there was none. For a second, your gaze crossed Killer's, who shrugged.
«Fine.» you mumbled through your teeth, dropping your bag next to Bartolomeo.
The green-haired guy in Gryffindor colours withdrew a little when you sat next to him.
I'm not happy about this either, ya know. God, I'm among the Gryffindors! Enemy lines!!
«Hey, Y/n!»
Ace called from behind you, leaning on his desk to reach your ear.
«Have you already put your name in the Goblet?»
Jeez, why is everyone so obsessed with it?
«No, and I'm not going to!» you hissed.
«Whaddaya mean you're not? C'mon, it's always more fun when you're involved!»
«You're talking like you've already been chosen.» Sabo commented, next to him.
Ace grinned.
«I'm going to be Gryffindor champion!»
«I don't think so.»
«Gryffindor and Slytherin, minus five points each.» Shanks lazily stated.
«What?!» you scoffed «I didn't do anything!»
«Yeah, like every time.»
You hated when your incredible misfortune was used against you.
«But it's true! Plus, there's two of them, why is the amount of points the same?!»
Shanks smiled.
«Because I'm the head professor of Gryffindor, so I obviously want them to win the House cup.»
Your jaw dropped.
«Well, you've got a damn courage to state it in front of us!» Kid growled, banging his fist on the desk.
The teacher frowned at him.
«Got problems, Eustass?»
«I do, professor.»
Wow, redheads really don't get along in this school.
«Minus five points for Slytherin.»
Most of the Gryffindors were now giggling.
Kid tensed up, but Killer grabbed his uniform, trying to restrain him.
«Just how can you do that-dabe?» Bartolomeo whispered, catching your attention.
«Do what?»
«Well, you started this.»
«I totally didn't!»
Shanks cleared his voice, regaining the silence in the room.
«Okay pupils, enough with messing around. Like I was saying before being interrupted,» (you rolled your eyes) «this year we have to focus on developing your Patronus.»
A wave of excitement spread through the students.
«I know the Ministry of Magic thinks it's not necessary anymore, since we're living a period of peace. But a Patronus is not only meant to protect you from the Dementors. It can be used to deliver messages or guide you away from danger.»
Shanks jumped off from his desk and grabbed his wand.
«Expecto Patronum!»
A silver deer sprang from the tip of his wand, galloping across the class. Some girls gasped in awe.
The glowing animal proceeded to the bottom of the room, hovering his horned head above Roronoa Zoro, who was quietly snoring on his desk.
«WAKE UP YOU GREENHEAD!» it suddenly shouted. Zoro jumped in the air and fell down his seat. A burst of laughter exploded all around, and the deer disappeared.
«As I was saying, important messages.» Shanks shrugged «Anyway, this is a very powerful charm, not easy to master. It will take time and effort to learn. First, I want you to find a memory. It has to be a very happy memory, the best you got. Focus on that image and the feeling it bears.»
You prodded your lips out, thinking.
My best memory?
«I will give you ten minutes. Find something powerful! You can write it down if you want, sometimes it helps.»
Most of the students started to scribble something on their sheets.
You observed Slytherin side. As you imagined, some of your mates were having a hard time with that apparently simple task.
The three Vinsmoke brothers stared blankly at their papers, while Kid was grimacing at his. Killer and Heat seemed to be out of ideas as well.
«You should worry about yourself.» Bartolomeo huffed beside you.
You twisted your nose at his comment and glanced at his blank sheet.
«Same goes for you, Gryffindor.»
«I have plenty of good memories-dabe!» he smiled, tipping the pencil on his temple «I just have to recall the best Quidditch moments of Luffy the Great.»
You blinked at his stupid point.
Quidditch? Of course!
«Bartolomeo, you're a genius!» you whispered back.
He looked confused at your change of demeanour.
«I am?»
«Sure! I'd kiss you, but Professor Shanks is looking this way.»
You were so focused on the new inspiration you didn't notice the red dust that covered his cheeks.
So, Quidditch. The first time you caught the golden snitch for Slytherin team during a match, securing the win for your House.
You were covered in mud, half beat and exhausted, but you threw your fist in the air, tightening the grip on the snitch as Usopp announced your victory against Ravenclaw.
Kid and Killer were the first ones to join you in the middle of the field. Before you could realize it, the redhead had lifted you on his shoulders. All the Slytherins on the bleachers were going crazy screaming your name.
Soon, the Vinsmoke brothers glided towards you, getting off their brooms with smiles on their faces. True smiles, for once.
Katakuri was the last of the team to join, but he proudly nodded at you, and you felt like your chest could burst in joy.
With laughter you couldn't restrain, you grabbed Kid's goggles and brought them on your head.
«Hey!» he barked when his red hair fell on his forehead, but he was too happy to actually get mad, and you knew that.
«Okay, time's up!» Shanks announced, clapping his hands.
He pulled out a little truck from an old bag, placing it in the centre of his desk. The truck trembled.
«Here we got a boggart. I enchanted it so it will turn into a Dementor no matter who's targeting. I don't know if any of you ever met an actual Dementor, but the sensation you'll get from this only vaguely resembles the original one. Who knows what's supposed to happen?»
Some hands rose, and the professor hinted at a Gryffindor girl.
«Margaret?»
«In front of a Dementor you will feel like every happiness in your life it's sucked away. You can also live your worst memory over and over. The more a person suffered, the more is susceptible and the Dementors will be attracted to them.»
«Very good. Five points for Gryffindor.»
«Everyone knows it.» Perona grumbled.
«When you face the fake Dementor, you will feel bad. I want you to focus on your best memory, point your wand and firmly pronounce the charm: "Expecto Patronum". If just a silver spurt comes out of your wand, I'll be satisfied.» Shanks grinned «Who wants to go first?»
«I'll go!» Ace shouted, jumping on his feet. Sabo cursed because he was not fast enough.
The Gryffindor marched in front of the desk, brandishing his wand.
«Here it comes.» Shanks said, and he opened the truck with a click.
Black smoke flew out of it and the Dementor took form in the middle of the class.
An icy sensation clotted in your chest, and the air suddenly froze.
Oh, shit.
Ace seemed to be the most affected, being the primary target. Surprisingly, he stepped back, swallowing.
«E-Expecto Patronum!»
Nothing happened.
«Not clear enough!» Shanks called «Someone else stepping in to help?»
He didn't have to repeat it, Sabo immediately joined his brother.
«Expecto Patronum!»
Some silvers sparks erupted from his wand and the Dementor pulled back a little before changing his target.
«Everyone is at sake now!» the professor announced «Be prepared! Repel it!»
The boggart headed towards Cavendish, but he was ready.
«Expecto Patronum!»
More silver sparks materialized.
The false Dementor started to bounce around, and the results were surprising. Some students who usually shined did a lot worse compared to the ones who were normally just on average level.
Nothing happened when Nami and Killer tried to use the charm, but Perona and Leo managed to repel the boggart. The Vinsmoke trio laughed when Sanji quivered against it. Zoro tried to step in, but he did the same as Ace, and Bartolomeo was the one who finally pushed the creature away from Gryffindor's side.
"The ones who suffered the most in their life are the most vulnerable" you recalled.
Cornered in the centre of the room, the boggart suddenly sensed something of great interest and, while till that moment it had just randomly wandered around (although Sanji seemed to be his favourite target), it pointed straight to Kid.
The redhead pulled out his wand to face it with a frown, but he paled when the creature got close. His hand sprang through his hair.
«Get out of my head!»
The Dementor just moved closer, getting bigger.
Shanks finally stood up, ready to intervene, but before he could do anything, you jumped out of your desk.
Once you entered the affected area, every good feeling dried out in your chest.
The snitch, the snitch, I got it! For once, I didn't fucked up! I didn't fucked up!
«Expecto Patronum!»
Silver flames poured out from your wand and the creature pulled back, hissing.
«Revoco!»
Shanks captured it with his charm, sending it back inside the truck.
«Good job, everyone!» he smiled «Don't worry if you weren't able to do anything now, it's pretty normal. It doesn't depend on your skills as wizards or witches, it's more about your backstory. You need to put up with it first if you want to cast a good Patronus. Find a better memory, because rage won't work. I'll give thirty points to each House! Class is dismissed.»
Shanks' words couldn't actually cheer up Kid, or Ace or Sanji. They looked like someone beat them with a stick when they left the class.
You tried to cross Kid's gaze, but he refused to look at you, swiftly getting out of the room.
«That was pretty good, Y/n!» Perona said, reaching you at the exit «Though you were not its first target, I think your charm was the best one there!»
«Really?»
«I guess. What was the memory?»
«The first time I got the snitch in a match.»
She smiled.
«Simple and efficient!»
«Speaking of charms,» Ginrummy intervened «we better hurry, it's our next class with Ravenclaw.»
Valentine shrugged.
«Don't worry, we have the good Professor Donquixote. He never takes points out.»
«But he does light things on fire randomly.» you observed.
Your friends giggled, moving to the next class.
Chapter 4: Worst first day ever
Chapter Text
Professor Donquixote Rocinante, commonly known as "Corazon", welcomed you in his class with an affectionate grin on his painted lips.
As it happened most of the lessons you were following with Ravenclaw, almost all the students of the other House had already taken place on their seats.
«Damn nerds.» Mikita muttered, before randomly selecting a desk.
Slytherin students quickly sat as well, and you ended up between Killer and Perona.
«Good morning to everyone!» Corazon chimed «I'm happy to see you all again! Since we have just one hour and Principal Edward surely dropped a big bomb yesterday night, I thought it would be nice if you shared with me your questions and doubts about the Goblet of Fire...»
He couldn't even finish the sentence before at least half a dozen hands jerked in the air.
Just Trafalgar Law, in the first row, looked annoyed.
«Hum, okay... let's see... Tashigi?»
The Ravenclaw girl cleared her throat.
«Professor, is there the chance someone else could put another name in the Goblet?»
«A very good question indeed!»
The wizard stood up, just to walk in front of his desk and sit directly on it, closer to his students.
«You're thinking about what happened during the last edition, aren't you? Well, I'm glad to say the Magic Community fixed the problem, changing the Goblet of Fire so it won't accept younger students. It took a lot of effort and different powerful wizards to modify such an ancient relic, but we did it. So, if someone was thinking of doing something nasty...» he eyeballed Slytherin lines «...just don't. Cavendish?»
«Has the Unbreakable Vow rule been modified as well?»
Corazon's expression became more serious.
«I'm afraid that was not possible. The charm was deeply connected with the core of the Goblet itself, changing it would result in destroying the object.»
«This means we cannot retreat in any case if we're chosen, right?» Penguin spurted, without waiting to be called.
Niji sneered.
«Aw, look at you Ravenclaw, pissing yourself already!»
Yonji hit him in the ribs with his elbow.
«Our sister is Ravenclaw!»
«Our sister is an exception, you idiot!»
On the other side of the room, Reiju rolled her eyes. You did the same on your side.
«Now, now, calm down!» Corazon called, a bit nervous. He didn't like to deal with the bullies.
«I won't be surprise if Reiju is the only Ravenclaw to put her name in the Goblet!» Niji continued, unperturbed.
«We will see about that, Vinsmoke-ya.»
The trailed low voice took everyone by surprise. It was not typical of Trafalgar Law to intervene during those fights.
«Oooh, the creep is going to join!» Yonji smirked «Nice, he'll finally have his ass kicked by Ichiji!»
«This is not what destiny seems to be.» Hawkins commented from Ravenclaw last seats, consulting his cards.
«The hell did you say?!» Niji burst, jerking to his feet.
While Corazon tried to sedate the discussion, you leaned towards Killer.
«Are you going to put your name in the Goblet?» you quietly asked.
He shrugged.
«I might. What about you?»
«As I already told you, I'm not interested.» you hinted at Kid with your head «What about him?»
For once, Kid was quiet in his desk, probably still bashed from Defence Against the Dark Arts.
«He definitely will.» Killer answered.
You sighed.
«Thought so.»
The blonde chuckled.
«What's the problem, Y/n? Worrying over him?»
«Obviously not!» you immediately replied «I'm worried over the Quidditch cup! We need our beaters focused!»
«We will be.» he said «But this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.»
You huffed, glancing at Perona.
«Guys.» she commented.
You were interrupted by a green spell ripping the air, darting from Slytherin's side to Ravenclaw's.
By the time Corazon extracted his wand, Trafalgar Law had already jumped on the desk.
«Protego.»
He shielded himself almost lazily from Niji's hex. Nothing to be surprised of, Law was one of the most talented wizard in the school.
The problem arose when the other two Vinsmoke stood up beside their brother.
«Shit!» you cursed between your lips.
Perona sighed.
«Aaaaaand first brawl of the year!»
Penguin, Shachi and Bepo jumped as well. Bepo just prepared his wand, but Penguin and Shachi both attacked immediately.
«Ebublio!»
«Flipendo!»
Ichiji easily dodged the hex directed to him, while Niji and Yonji blocked it. Law was fast, and threw his spell immediately after, hitting Yonji and sending him flying against the wall.
«Fuck Trafalgar, you went too far!»
Kid's growl startled you. The redhead finally joined the Vinsmoke with the wand in his grip.
This triggered a major reaction between Ravenclaw's lines.
Drake, Kalifa and Kaku stood up. As a response, Killer, Heat, Wire and you prepared to fight as well.
«Murum!»
Corazon's voice thundered in the room, and a thick glowing wall materialized in the centre of the class, dividing the two Houses.
«What the hell are you guys doing?! It's the first day and you're already at each other's throats?»
He marched to his desk.
«Minus thirty points for both Houses. Now sit!» he commanded.
Reluctantly, all the students went back to their places.
You caught Reiju's worried glance and followed it to Yonji, who sat against the wall massaging his head.
Since none of his brothers seemed interested in helping him, you stood up under Corazon's hard gaze and reached your mate.
«Hey idiot.» you muttered, grabbing his arm and assisting him to his feet. He mumbled a reply, and Prof. Donquixote's eyes softened.
He waited for you to escort Yonji back to his place and head to yours.
«The Tournament is supposed to tie the bound in the Magic Community! It's good to be fired up, but you're doing it all wrong! I should forbid you to participate.»
A cold shiver ran through the class.
«The next student I catch picking up a fight will be excluded from the selection. Have I made myself clear?»
Most of you nodded and Corazon sighed.
Soon after, the professor dismissed the class, but called Trafalgar back.
«Law, a word?»
He didn't seem happy. Law stayed back, scowl glued to the floor.
«That guy gives me the creeps!» Ginrummy huffed while you left the room.
You eyeballed the three Vinsmoke whispering to each other and glancing at the Ravenclaw student.
«You know what gives me the creeps? What our sweet mates are planning for him...» you observed, resigned.
Of course your House was your first loyalty, but you had to admit that some of your companions really were assholes, and most of the times the first blow was on you.
The last two hours of the morning were History of Magic, with Hufflepuff.
Sir Crocodile was nothing like Corazon, so no one started a fight during his hours, although Hufflepuff guys were the favourite targets of Slytherin bullies.
Except for Edward Weevil.
The big guy snored for most of the class. Not even his mates sat beside him, they dreaded him as well.
You leaned on your desk and gently tapped Kid's shoulder, ignoring your friends' sceptical eyes on you. He turned to you, surprised.
«I hope the Goblet chooses you, so you can kick that big flabby ass!» you whispered.
Kid was puzzled at first, but then he saw Weevil drooling on his desk and chuckled.
«You and me both, lil troublemaker.»
You blinked at your nickname and sat back to your chair. He hardly ever called you that way. But you felt a little better seeing he was starting to be more relaxed.
Two fingers appeared from nowhere and messed with your cheek.
«Stop the flirting, Y/n.» Perona cooed.
You blushed and slapped her hand away.
Lunch was noisy and lively as always in the Great Hall.
This time, though, you got to see the show of people putting their name in the enchanted Goblet.
Every student who approached it was welcomed by the claps of his House and the whistles of others.
First were the Gryffindors, of course. Sai, Wiper and Ideo proudly marched through the hall and gave their names.
Then it was the turn for Drake, Hawkins and Apoo from Ravenclaw. You held your breath when Reiju consigned her name to the flames.
«Are you worried for her?» Perona asked.
«Aren't you?»
«She's a badass.»
«I know... but it's not like she has a choice. Her family expects her to do it without even questioning...»
«She makes a good champion for the school.» Perona shrugged.
You spotted Sanji gripping his fists on Gryffindor's table. He probably felt the same as you about Reiju subscribing.
Yonji, Niji and Ichiji put their names inside immediately after. The other tables shouted some insults, but they shut up when Katakuri and Smoothie walked to the Goblet.
«They surely are Slytherin's proudest face.» Suleiman commented. Cavendish huffed.
«It's not time for me to make my entrance yet.» he stated.
A bunch of other people subscribed. As you all dreaded, Weevil was among them.
Half of the hall grimaced when he gave his name to the Goblet of Fire.
The procession finally stopped and you all focused more on the food.
«What do you girls have next?»
Afternoon was usually reserved for elective subjects.
You consulted your timetable.
«Care for Magical Creatures.» you sputtered with mouth full of omelette.
Ginrummy smiled, since she was with you for it.
«We have Muggle Studies.» Perona sighed along with Mikita.
People were starting to leave the hall, when Apoo suddenly placed a foot on his table and shouted.
«What about the little troublemaker! Isn't she joining the race for the Tournament?»
You froze as everyone's attention immediately shifted on you.
Apoo wasn't a fan of yours since your third year, when you accidentally bumped into him and he fell into the Black Lake, where the Kraken nearly drowned him.
You had tried to apologize multiple times, but he just hated you. He was the main reason you quit the Duelling Club, since he was trying to kill you all the time, even when you were not paired together.
You dared an apologetic smile towards Ravenclaw's table.
«I guess I'm not interested?»
«I guess you're fucking shitting in your pants!» he barked in response.
Your eyes sharpened.
«Mind your own business, stupid monkey!»
Perona glanced the teachers' table.
Unfortunately, almost all the professors had left already. Prof. Doflamingo was there, but he was following the scene with an amused smile. Despite being the head of your house, he enjoyed the quarrels too much. Prof. Akagami and Prof. Bonekichi were there as well, but they were too focused on the food to notice what was going on. The same was for Prof. Emporio, who was chatting with Inazuma, the ghost of Ravenclaw.
Apoo leaped to your side of the hall, approaching.
«I knew that! You Slytherin shits are too coward for something serious like this tournament!» he sneered.
«What the hell is your problem, Scratchmen?» you groaned, standing up.
«You are my problem, shitface.»
You saw his hand shifting to the wand, but the tip of another wand poked his cheek, making him squint.
«I suggest you not to.» Kid hissed.
Your stomach clenched at the plot twist.
Kid!
«Ooooh, Eustass! Standing for your girlfriend?» Apoo mocked, but he didn't move.
«Standing for my House.» the redhead corrected «Now crawl back in your fucking crow's hole, Scratchmen.»
The Ravenclaw lifted his hands in sign of surrender and Kid lowered his wand.
You followed the guy moving a few steps back towards his table, but all of a sudden he turned, wand in his hand, pointing at you.
Fuck!
Your fingers jerked for your wand, but it was too late. Kid cursed and lifted his arm, but someone else was faster than all of you.
«Expelliarmus!»
Apoo's wand was snatched away from his hand.
You turned and your jaw dropped.
Ichiji was standing among his brothers, wand still lifted, face unperturbed as always.
What?!
Everyone was shocked.
None of the Vinsmoke brothers (with the exception of Sanji) ever stood up for someone else in six years.
Apoo was staring at the redhead in disbelief.
«Enough, Scratchmen.» Ichiji simply said «Don't mess with Slytherin anymore.»
The Ravenclaw growled in his teeth, but walked away without a word.
«Well, that was... unexpected.» Perona breathed.
You swiftly turned around the table to reach the others.
«Kid, thank you for your help!»
The redhead glanced at you, then turned his frown to Ichiji.
You approached the Vinsmoke, feeling a bit nervous.
Despite being in the same class and Quidditch team for years, you never interacted much.
«Hum, thanks Ichiji.» you mumbled, scratching your cheek.
He put a hand on your shoulder and you stiffened.
All the ones who were following the scene squinted once again.
«Be ready next time, Y/n.» Ichiji warned.
«S-Sure.»
He nodded and headed out of the room, followed by his brothers.
Perona jumped beside you, squeezing your arm.
«What the hell did just happen?»
«I have no idea...»
Someone bumped into you, making you both stumble against the table.
You squeaked, gripping on it and grabbing Perona's thin shoulder to keep her on her feet.
Raising your head, you caught a glimpse of Kid's vest disappearing beyond the door.
«What the hell?» you scoffed.
«Jeez, that guy really is lunatic!» Perona snorted, rubbing her nape. Then she looked at you.
«...and definitely a jealous type.»
You grimaced at her.
«I'll just go before Professor Inuarashi takes more points from Slytherin.»
«Are we already in negative?» she asked casually.
«Most likely.» you rolled your eyes «Worst first day ever.»
Chapter 5: Care for Magical Creatures
Chapter Text
Care for Magical Creatures was the last lesson of your Monday. Professor Inuarashi had the whole class gathered in the yard, not too far from the border of the Forbidden Forest.
Afternoon periods were reserved for elective subjects, so students from all Houses were taking them together. You sat with Heat and Ginrummy, who were the only other Slytherin there.
«Welcome back to Hogwarts, kids. This year is going to be very special, I saw a few of you have already put their name in the Goblet.» the Professor smiled proudly «Magical creatures have always played a role in the Triwizard Tournament before, so I want to focus my lessons on what may be useful to our champions.»
«Kid and Killer should be here.» Heat huffed, rolling his eyes.
«The creep for Ravenclaw certainly is.» Ginrummy said, hinting towards Law, who sat with his usual crew.
«You know, it could actually be a problem if Trafalgar is selected.» you mumbled «People call him the best novice of our year.»
«Screw people!»
You turned to see who hissed that. Bartolomeo was sitting not too far and obviously had eavesdropped your conversation.
«Luffy is the one and only champion of Hogwarts!»
Your lips curled.
«...right.»
«Hey, Slytherin, are you speaking lowly of–»
«You right there!» Inuarashi barked «Focus! Gryffindor and Slytherin, minus 5 points each!»
«Oh gosh!» you groaned, dropping your head on your knees.
«As I was saying,» the teacher continued «our past greatly affects who we are, and who we are greatly affects our magic. Sometimes, rough stories make superior wizards. Today's lesson will be a good example.»
He pulled out a piece of meat from a lather bag hung to his belt and threw it a few feet away, in a little clearing right out of the first trees.
Nothing happened for a few seconds, then you heard a law whinny and hoofs approaching. Immediately after, pieces of meat began to be torn apart and disappear.
You yelped.
«Woha! This must be...!»
«Threstal.» Inuarashi confirmed «Now, most of you can't see them, but there are at least three Threstals in the clearing right now. They are not dangerous if not disturbed and approached the right way, but obviously it's difficult to do so.» he cleared his voice «If someone can see them and feels okay sharing it, you can try to get closer. I'll give 40 points to whomever manages to ride one.»
You swallowed. Since you lost so many points already, it was a good chance to make up for it. Unfortunately, all you could see was the dust moving around and the meat almost gone.
«Who knows the condition to be able to see these animals?»
Your hand rose, but Inuarashi picked Laura.
«You can see them if you saw someone dying.»
«Good, 5 points for Hufflepuff. Now, nobody wants to try?»
A few seconds of silence passed, then Trafalgar Law slowly stood.
«Can you see them, kid?»
The wizard nodded.
«Then you're on. Someone else?»
Next was Drake, another student from Ravenclaw. After him, Heat.
You were caught by surprise.
«Dude, you can see them?»
«Yes.»
One by one, all the students started to clumsily approach the clearing, even the ones who were just walking in the darkness, so you stood up with a sigh.
Drake was the first who successfully climbed a Threstal. It was weird seeing him fluctuating in the air.
Soon, the wizards were dispersed, with Inuarashi walking around to check the various situations.
Okay, hum... how am I supposed to pat on the head something I don't even see? I hope it's not the butt.
You walked closer to a piece of meat being torn apart.
«Hem... easy, horsey?» you muttered, stretching a hand. You could hear him grunting.
«Y/n-ya, freeze.»
Law's firm voice came from your side, and something in the way he spoke made you listen.
«W-What?» you asked, still.
«There's one Threstal behind you, and doesn't look pleased. I think you're approaching her foal.»
«Great.» you grumbled, paying attention not to move.
«Just stay still. I'll lure them away.»
Law extracted the wand, pointing it at the meat.
«Wingardium Leviosa»
The piece started levitating, and he drove him in another direction. According to the sounds he made, the foal happily followed it, and his mother with him.
«It's fine, you can move now.»
You sighed, feeling your body relax. The Ravenclaw just turned and proceeded to walk away.
«Trafalgar, wait!»
He shot you a glare over his shoulder.
«What?»
«Well... thanks.»
«I didn't do it for you, I did it for the course. If someone gets injured, it's likely to be suspended.»
Well, he's one honest guy.
«But still! I owe you one.»
Law shrugged.
«And so...» you chew your inner cheek as he scoffed in annoyance.
«And so what?»
You stared at him.
«Watch out for the Vinsmoke trio. I think they are planning something for you.»
«Oh?» he lifted his eyebrow «And why are you telling me? "The House comes first", isn't it our motto?»
«The House is important, but it's not everything.»
«Careful, Slytherin. Your friendly mates might hear you.»
You offered him a smirk.
«Maybe you're taking this the wrong way: I told you so we're even. If I walk into a match between you and the brothers, don't count me on your side.»
Law snorted, walking away.
«Don't worry over me, Y/n-ya. It's the Vinsmokes you should fear for.»
As a tradition for the first day, all the students were required to gather in the Great Hall a hour before dinner, so the teachers could announce the new Head Boy and Girl of the year, along with the prefects and some other stuff like that. That left you with a couple of free hours after the last lesson.
It was starting to rain, so most of you rushed inside the castle. You were about to take the stairs down the dungeons when you ran into Momonosuke and Chimney back from their first Flying lesson.
«It was WONDERFUL!» the blond little girl was yelping. The boy looked rather annoyed by her enthusiasm.
«It was okay.» he grunted.
«Hey!» you waved at them.
«Y/n-senpai!»
«Oh, the Slytherin lady!»
«How was your first day?»
«Fine I guess.» Momo mumbled.
«You guess? I was all over the place after my first lesson with Prof. Jinbe.»
Chimney patted his shoulder with a grin.
«He fell from the broom.»
Momonosuke pushed her away.
«I didn't! I just slid a little!»
A soft giggle erupted from your lips and the child lowered his eyes with an embarrassed grimace.
«Don't beat yourself over it, Momo! Can you keep a secret?»
He raised his face, slightly interested now.
«What?»
«Well... Monkey D. Luffy fell from his broom too the first day. So did Cracker.»
His eyes opened wide.
«Really?»
«Sure.»
You winked at him.
Chimney tilted her head.
«See? I told you it was no big deal. I'll see you later.»
Momonosuke weakly waved at her before following you down to the dungeons.
«It's nice to see a Slytherin and a Gryffindor hanging out together from the beginning!» you smiled.
«She's just stuck to my shadow.» he muttered.
Quite a few people were already in the common room, chilling out. There were Charlotte Flampe and Pudding, the two bitches of Slytherin, already gossiping between each other; Killer and Blue Gilly were talking by the fire, while Charlotte Raisin and Suleiman were playing Wizard's Chess.
Momonosuke stiffened beside you.
«Hey, don't be agitated.» you tried your best reassuring smile «The moment the Sorting Hat sent you here, Slytherin became your new family. Even if they can be a little rough around the edges sometimes, all the people here will fiercely defend you against anything outside.»
The kid shot you a doubtful glance.
«They don't even know me.»
«Doesn't matter. You are a Slytherin.»
You patted his head and headed to the stairs for the girls' dorm. Everyone greeted you absent-mindedly, with Killer lightly touching your arm.
Like the men's, the female wing was divided in seven rooms, one for each grade. After a warm shower, you entered the sixth one. Perona and Ginrummy were chatting around while throwing different clothes on their beds.
«Y/n! You're gonna be late again!» Ginrummy sighed.
Perona rolled her eyes.
«As always.»
She was right.
Your hair was only half dry while you ran behind your roommates muttering your signature "shitshitshit", trying to hurry and buttoning up your uniform all together. The common hall was already empty.
You reached the Great Hall with some other usual latecomers, so you, Zoro and Penguin greeted each other with an understanding nod.
The four long tables were nowhere to be seen, but hundreds of chairs were placed in tidy lines in front of the professors' platform. Most of the students had already taken a seat, but luckily the ceremony had not started yet and everybody was still chatting.
«Y/n!» Perona waved at you from the side and you dived into the crowd to reach the place she saved for you. As always, the Houses were well divided, so you found yourself surrounded by Slytherins.
Kid's crew sat right behind you, and he finally looked alright, sneering beside Wire. He didn't look at you, though.
«Okay kids, now be quiet.» the thundering voice of Principal Edward echoed in the room. You noticed that Aokiji, the man from the Minister, was still sat on his right.
The hall was silent in a second.
«Good guys. The sooner we're done with this, the sooner we eat. First of all, I ask the head professor of each House to step forward and announce the new prefects of the year.»
Prof. Akagami, Prof. Jinbe, Prof. Dracule and Prof. Donquixote stood and walked around the table to face the students.
Shanks looked rather bored as he started to read the list in his hand.
«Okaaay, so, prefects for Gryffindor. Fifth year: Haruta and Nefertari Vivi. Congratulations. Sixth year: Margaret and Sabo...»
Every name was followed by a quick clapping and friends patting each others' shoulders.
After he was done, Jinbe announced the prefects for Hufflepuff and Mihawk the ones for Ravenclaw. Finally, Doflamingo eyed his list.
«Fufufu, let's see who we have for Slytherin. Fifth year: Charlotte Pudding and Saldeath. Yeah, very impressive. Sixth year: Cavendish and L/n D. Y/n. More interesting. Seventh year: Charlotte Katakuri and Charlotte Smoothie. So obvious it's boring.»
You loudly gasped when you heard your name and stared at Prof. Donquixote, who just smirked at you.
«Congratulations, Y/n!» Heat whispered from behind, while Perona shook her head.
«It must be a mistake. We cannot have you as a prefect, we're so screwed!»
Wow, so much for my bestie.
You groaned, dropping your head.
«This just means more work for me!»
The head professors went back to their places, and the principal took the word once again.
«It's my pleasure to name Charlotte Katakuri and Wanda Head Boy and Head Girl of the year. Do your best, kids.»
You all clapped.
«The second thing on the agenda is the confirmation of the Quidditch teams. Monkey D. Sabo, Neptune Fukaboshi, Diez Drake and Charlotte Katakuri: stood up, please.»
«Just how many times was Katakuri named already?» Cavendish huffed near you.
The four guys obeyed. Since they were all from different Houses, they were rather far from each other.
«As captains of your teams, you are requested to arrange the training rotation and confirm your team members to Professor Jinbe by the end of the week. And now...»
Rolling drums spread in the hall. Glancing around, you noticed Professor Brook beating on the instrument from a corner. Principal Edward smiled knowingly.
«I'm glad to present you the Quidditch matches calendar.»
The drums increased their volume as Prof. Rocinante gracefully agitated his wand in the air. Silver sparks erupted from it and formed floating words in the air when Brook reached his climax.
30th Oct.
Hufflepuff Vs. Slytherin
13th Nov.
Gryffindor Vs. Ravenclaw
22nd Jan.
Slytherin Vs. Gryffindor
5th Feb.
Ravenclaw Vs. Hufflepuff
25th Mar.
Hufflepuff Vs. Gryffindor
12th Apr.
Slytherin Vs. Ravenclaw
2nd May
Match for 3rd place
20th June
Final match
Kid leaned over you.
«Sweet. We get to kick the flabby ass first.»
You sneered.
«We open with Hufflepuff? This is too easy.»
Killer called for your attention.
«The day after they will announce our champions for the Triwizard Tournament! We have to shine!»
Nearby, Raisin relaxed on his seat.
«With brother Katakuri we have nothing to fear. Both the Quidditch and the Triwizard cups will be ours.»
Kid's eyes sharpened at the comment.
«Hey!»
«Don't listen to him.» Killer warned «You know how these Charlottes are, all fawning over their older brother.»
People were whispering excited among the other Houses too.
After a couple of minutes, the floating words disappeared and the principal cleared his voice.
«One last thing before dinner, kids! You probably noticed we have a guest.» he hinted towards Mr. Aokiji, who lazily waved «As you know, he's here to supervise the organization of the Triwizard Tournament for the Ministry. However, it would be rude from our part not to keep our guest entertained, so we decided to organise a little something for Friday night: the first session of the Duelling Club will be open to the public and will consist in sparring matches among the contenders. Let's show the Ministry what you got, kids!»
«Hell yeah!» Protgas D. Ace roared among his brothers.
Mikita elbowed you.
«Are you gonna sign up this year?»
«Nope.» you shook your head «Prefect and Quidditch is already enough. For all the rest I'll be just a spectator.»
Killer chuckled from behind and you turned, slightly annoyed.
«What.»
«Stop saying it, Y/n, it ain't gonna happen.»
You scoffed.
«I'll prove you wrong, blondie. I'll prove you all wrong!»
Kid shrugged.
«Sure, sure.»
You crossed your arms, pouting.
«You'll see.»
Chapter 6: 100% Slytherin
Chapter Text
The second professor Donquixote was the one in charge of Transfiguration.
His classes were always kinda creepy but since he was the Head of your House, you were usually safe from his sadistic side.
For Ravenclaw, on the other hand, it was a whole other story.
Doflamingo especially liked to pick up on Law, since he was his brother's step child, and something must had happened between the two in the past.
So there you were, trying to turn Law, Shachi and Tashigi's stuff into something really disgusting. The more disgusting, the more pleased Prof. Donquixote was.
The Vinsmoke trio had a lot of fun turning Tashigi's backpack in a giant cockroach, but Eustass Kid was nothing less when he transfigured Law's hat in something similar to puke. While it was still on his head.
You stayed back during the practice, unable to join the general atmosphere of bullying your mates were diving in. Killer leaned quietly beside you.
«You two are such party-poopers!» Blue Gilly huffed.
Your eyes trailed on the line of furious Ravenclaws in front of you. Drake, Penguin, Monet, Kalifa, Kaku... God, even Bepo looked pissed.
«This exercise is bullshit.» you hissed «Law is a better wizard than the 90% of us, yet he's forced to swallow it because otherwise Doflamingo will take a lot of points from his House. It's for shit like this that Slytherins are still seen as assholes.»
«Did you say something, lil troublemaker?»
You shivered as the professor's voice crawled from behind.
«No sir.»
«I haven't seen your wand swinging yet. Go on, Y/n.»
Your lips curled in a pout as you approached Law.
The green mash was still pouring down his forehead, his eyes were blank. He barely saw you when you pointed your wand at him.
«Mutatio.»
The mushy thing instantly turned into a fall of little light leaves, which glided around Law's face. His gaze became focused at the change, and your eyes met.
«Aaaw, Y/n, you're no fun!» Kid whined from behind.
«As expected from a prefect.» Doflamingo commented with his sly grin «Very mature.»
You rolled your eyes and went back among your mates.
«Hey!»
Yonji elbowed you, not too gently.
«What?»
«What was that about? Don't tell me you got a crush on the creepy fag.»
«The creepy fag?»
Your eyebrow twitched.
«Yonji, watch your mouth.»
«So, you do have a crush...!»
«She doesn't.» Kid hissed, cutting through «She's just randomly compassionate.»
«You know,» you continued «you could really hurt someone's feeling with your words, for no reason. Live and let live, Yonji.»
He tilted his head.
«You sure you're a Slytherin?»
Your wand jerked on his cheek, almost piercing it.
The sudden gesture had the whole class moving the attention to you.
«Say it again, you brainless artichoke, and I'll blow your tongue up.» you hissed.
Yonji groaned and raised his hands in surrender.
You turned your head to the Ravenclaw's side.
«What are you staring at? He maybe an idiot, but I'd still rip anyone of you apart if you just think of insulting him.»
Kid sneered to Niji.
«She is definitely a Slytherin.»
You didn't mean to put on a show, it just happened. Doflamingo was kind enough (or unfair enough) to laugh it out and do nothing about it.
Among the other House, you caught Reiju's small smile.
After class, you manoeuvred to reach her side while getting out of the room.
«I'm sorry I pointed my wand at your brother.» you murmured.
She shrugged.
«I'm not. If you manage to put a little sense in that woodhead, I'll be the happiest sister in the world.»
You sighed.
«I think the trio will soon target Law.»
«You worry too much about him. He can handle himself.»
«I hope so.»
After Transfiguration, you had another hour with Ravenclaw, where Prof. Corazon instructed you on the proprieties of a Patronus, then two hours of Herbology along with Hufflepuff.
Prof. Nekomamushi had you all planting and feeding some carnivorous plants which constantly tried to bite your limbs off. Edward Weevil killed his one hitting it hard with the rake, and juices of deceased vegetables spilled on all the presents.
«You know what?» Perona snapped, rubbing away some green sticky stuff from her cheek «I hope he gets chosen by the Goblet of Fire. And I hope he dies during the tournament.»
«You and me both, pinkie.» Cavendish huffed.
You sighed, glancing doubtful at your little plant. It looked so sad and dishevelled it was probably going to whiter soon.
«Yeah...» the voice of Nekomamushi reached over your shoulder «You may want to get a tutor for my class. Again.»
«No problem.» you groaned «Usopp and I are great friends by now.»
Once lunch in the Great Hall started, you headed to Gryffindor's table before joining your Hausemates.
Luffy's group was the loudest, as always.
«Hey.» you greeted flatly, leaning on the table.
«Hey Y/n!» Luffy uttered with his usual grin.
«What's up?» Zoro nodded.
«Usopp?» you sighed, as the ravenette raised his head «Are you still tutoring for Herbology?»
«Hum, yeah. Do you need it again?»
You were about to answer, when spurs echoed in the hall.
«It's Torao and Jaggy!!» Luffy chimed, jumping up and pointing at the Goblet of Fire.
You turned to see both of them standing beside the Goblet, staring at each other.
Your fingers tightened the grip on your bag.
They both just stretched their hands and consigned their name to the flames.
When they walked away in different directions, you let out a sigh you didn't know you were holding.
«YEAH!!» Luffy yelled «This is going to be fun!»
«Oi, Luffy!» Ace called, a few chairs away «Don't get yourself all pumped for nothing! I'm the one that'll be chosen for Gryffindor!»
Sabo elbowed him.
«I don't think so.»
You noticed the resolute smirk on Zoro and Sanji's face.
«You guys subscribed too?»
«Obviously.» Zoro scoffed.
«Yes princess~»
«Don't look at me!» Nami lifted her hands in front of her and Usopp shook his head.
«Yeah, me neither. I'm not looking forward to cross wands with monsters like Katakuri or Weevil.»
You returned his small smile.
«I agree. So, about that tutor thing, Nekomamushi strongly suggested me to take it again.»
«Sure, no problem. When are you free?»
«Best thing would be Thursday afternoon or sometime during the weekend.»
However, you were interrupted again when another scuffle blew near the Goblet.
«You cannot decide if I get to put my name inside or not!» Koby shouted, an angered face in front of the massive Weevil, who was clearing obstructing his way to the Goblet.
His big dumb face was distorted in an annoyed grimace.
«Get past me then!»
«Oi, Koby!» Luffy shouted, jumping on the other side of the table like a monkey.
Sanji sighed, standing as well.
«C'mon, Marimo, let's back the crazy one up.»
«Don't tell me what to do, blondie.» Zoro scoffed, but he followed him.
You admired how that group was solid against everything.
«Edward Weevil is doing it again.» Usopp observed.
«Doing what?» you asked.
Nami took another portion of salad.
«He's trying to prevent all the other Hufflepuff guys to join the selection, so he'll be chosen for the Tournament.»
«Ugh. I'm really glad I'm not a Hufflepuff.»
«Don't be so glad!» Ace called, raising his glass towards you «He'll be your opponent when you compete for your House!»
You turned to the two brothers, curling your nose.
«It won't happen, because I'm not going to compete.»
«Sure, sure.» Sabo smiled, drinking his juice.
Weevil wasn't going to back off, not even in front of four other students, but the entrance of the professors convinced him to move. He kept his nasty little eyes glued to Koby the whole time while he put his name in the Goblet.
«That guy is trouble.» you muttered, taking a seat between Perona and Niji.
«Hey squirt.» the blue haired-guy greeted you, mouth full of food «Katakuri dropped by: first Quidditch training session in two hours.»
«Whaaaat? But the weather is still shit.»
He just shrugged, while Perona patted your shoulder.
«Have fun.»
You swiftly swallowed your lunch and hurried to the library to collect some books for the assignment Prof. Donquixote gave you that morning, before running to the Quidditch field.
Most of your mates were at Divination or some other elective class at the moment, and the ancient library was almost empty.
With your face still buried in one of the books you were taking, you didn't notice the student beside the entrance.
Your shoulder bumped into him, making your notepad fall on the floor.
«Shit, I'm sorry!» you automatically said, without even raising your eyes.
Your hand was about to reach the notebook when a harsh grab on your uniform forced you against the wall.
«What the f–»
«See, that's why you're a freaking troublemaker. How do you do that?» Law hissed, just a few inches from your face «How can you be such an oblivious mess and always handle yourself in the worst situations?»
You blinked several times at his unexpected and furious expression, before slapping his hand away from you.
«Watch yourself, Trafalgar!» you blurted «What the hell is your problem?»
His golden eyes sharpened like he was trying to read inside your mind.
«Be sincere.» he slowly said «Is it you?»
«Me...?»
You shook your head. That guy had gone nuts.
«What the heck are you talking about?»
«Given the odds, it's likely to be you.» he continued, almost talking to himself «The one Slytherin I... well, never mind.»
«You know what?» you pushed him away, annoyed, freeing your way out of the library «Maybe Kid and the Vinsmokes are right. You are a creep.»
With a quick move the notepad was back in your bag and you headed resolutely to the exit.
«Hey, L/n.» he called
You stopped.
«I don't trust you. But if by any chance you're really innocent, take my advice.»
You shot a glare above your shoulder and he turned to you.
Your gazes locked together.
«Beware your housemates.»
A dangerous wrinkle dug between your eyebrows.
«I beg your pardon?»
«I know it's already started. Whoever of you is responsible for this, I will unmask them. And this time won't be like the past. This time I will make sure it ends here.»
Law had spoken low and steady, and didn't move his icy eyes afterwards.
My god, he's really out of his mind.
You stared at him for a few seconds, your face a mixture of surprise and disgust.
«I will say it just once, Trafalgar.» you whispered «Stay away from us. You touch one Slytherin, we'll all crush you like the fly you are.»
A sly smirk bent his lips.
«I'll be there waiting for you.»
With a last glare, you turned your back to him and left.
Chapter 7: Doubts + surprise
Chapter Text
Katakuri shot you a glance as you hurried into the changing room, cheeks flushed for the run and broom in your hand. He didn't comment though, hinting towards the bench.
All the other team members were already aligned in front of him.
You immediately sat beside Killer.
«...as I was saying,» the captain cleared his throat «last year we lost because of our intra-rivalry. If we want that cup, we have to stick together, be a true team. And yes, Vinsmoke, Eustass, I'm talking to you.»
The two redheads exchanged a glare (and a growl).
«So you decide.» Katakuri grunted «Victory, or your stupid ego. Just let me know sooner this time, so I won't waste too much time on it.»
Although none of them answered, you could physically feel the air burning on the bench.
With a rapid gesture of his hand, Katakuri dismissed the gathering and the players started off towards the field. You took the chance to put on the rest of your uniform.
Law's words were still swirling in your mind.
"Whoever of you is responsible for it, I will unmask them"
What the hell was that supposed to mean?
"Beware your hausemates "
Trafalgar Law was a peculiar element, but he was smart. It wasn't like him to pick up random fights.
«L/n?»
You blinked, suddenly brought back to reality.
«Is everything okay?»
You turned to Katakuri, who lingered in the room with you.
«Oh, yes! Sorry, I'll hurry.» you blabbered, throwing the T-shirt over your head.
«Actually, I wanted to mention something quick to you.»
«Ah?»
You adjusted your tracksuit and looked up to him.
God he was huge.
His serious gaze fixed on yours.
«I know it's a lot to ask, but I'd like you to be the glue of this team.»
You felt your eyes widening.
«What?»
«You heard me. You're the only one who has a decent relationship with all the players, and they respect you. Can you try to keep them together?»
«I...» you scratched your nape «No offense, captain, but I'm no natural leader or anything. Why should they listen to me?»
«The rivalry I mentioned, they feel it towards me as well. I'm afraid that this year, with the selection for the Tournament, it will be even worse. But you are neutral ground.»
You frowned, lightly chewing your inner cheek.
«I don't want you to yell stupid slogan or anything similar.» he continued, noticing your concern «Just do what you can, okay?»
«I'll try my best, but I doubt those hotheads will ever listen to me.» you murmured.
Katakuri nodded.
«Good. Now let's go.»
The afternoon was grey, and an annoying thin rain covered the whole training session.
Katakuri was smart enough to start with individual training, so the competitiveness couldn't rise too high from the beginning and everyone had the chance to warm up their own skills.
Being the seeker of the team, you spent most of the time flying around, trying to spot the snitch and grab it as fast as possible. So you didn't know how the first fight broke off.
When you landed for a break, Niji was trying to snap Kid's head.
«I swear this asshole sent the bludger right in my face!» Niji roared, with a very visible bleeding nose.
«Bullshit! You cut through my field of action!» Kid roared back.
Katakuri was not even attempting to calm them down. He stood a few feet afar, pinching the bridge of his nose. The rest of the team was scattered around.
Does he expect me to stop them?
Nevertheless, you jumped down your broom, moving it on your shoulder, and walked over with a resigned sigh.
«Oi, oi, you two.»
«Stay out of it, Y/n!» Kid barked, murdering eyes still locked on Niji's face.
I'm not up for this shit.
«Fine.» you growled «Eat off each other's snout. I don't care.»
You grabbed a can of coke from the cooler at the border of the field and opened it.
«You guys can lose your time and go on sucking. I'll win the cup for you little angry birds. All I have to do is catching the damn snitch, right?»
Everyone turned to you.
You shrugged their glares off with a smirk.
Your inner guts were twitching, but cockiness was the only language they could understand right now.
«Fly down, squirt.» Yonji snapped.
«Then stop being such babies!» you pointed a fingers on the two contenders «Who cares whose fault it is? Kid's job is to knock people out with the bludgers, and Niji has to avoid them. Can we please, please win the cup this year?»
After a few seconds of silence, Killer nodded.
«I'm with Y/n. We have very good chances if we learn some teamwork.»
«I agree.»
You blinked at Ichiji, surprised.
The redhead placed his hand on Niji's shoulder.
«Let's save this for the Triwizard Tournament. On this ground, we're a team.»
You smiled.
«"Slytherin will help you on your way to greatness".» Katakuri quoted.
Slowly, Kid's fists relaxed too.
«Fine. For Slytherin.»
«For Slytherin!» you repeated with a grin.
As the players returned to their roles, you failed to notice Katakuri's eyes fixed on you.
The rest of the training proceeded with no further clashes.
Out of the changing rooms, you ran into Kid and Killer.
«Hey.» you attempted a smile «Are you pissed at me?»
Kid grunted, starting to walk towards the castle.
«You should watch your mouth more.»
«I know.» you sighed.
«He's not pissed.» Killer said «He's just annoyed because a girl shushed him.»
«I'M NOT! SHUT UP!»
You muffled a giggle with your hand.
It was already time to join the rest of the students for dinner.
The training sore your muscles after months of inactivity, and you plopped exhausted on your seat beside Perona. As if it wasn't enough, Tuesday was the day you had Astrology lesson till midnight, and with Gryffindor. So you didn't speak much during dinner.
A few more people put their name in the Goblet of Fire (Apoo, Bonney, Wiper, Fukaboshi and others), but nothing more happened.
The Astrology lesson proceeded smoothly as well.
Prof. Marco was cool and able to catch the class' attention, plus he was a Ravenclaw and treated everyone fairly.
You went to sleep immediately after.
The day after passed without any major drama.
There was another disastrous lesson of Herbology, one hour with Prof. Crocodile, and finally Potions with Professor Caesar Clown.
He was also from Slytherin, and he liked to pick on Gryffindor students.
The potion you had to prepare today, a concoction meant to trigger nausea in any human being, was a 2-3 people job, so you split up in small groups.
Like every time, Ace and Sabo tried to sabotage the Vinsmokes' potion, while the twins tried to do the same.
You glanced at them, before going back to cut some roots.
«So, what is it, F/n?»
You lifted your eyes on Perona, who was working on your same kettle.
«What do you mean?»
«Oh, please. You have been absent-minded the whole day. Plus, those are radish's roots, our potion is ruined already.»
You stopped, quickly checking the recipe on the bookstand.
«Oh, shit!»
She shrugged.
«It's fine, Prof. Clown won't care.»
You pushed the chopped vegetables away with a tired gesture.
«If I tell you, you have to promise this stays between us. Seriously.»
She nodded.
Perona could appear like a light girl, but there was a reason she was your best friend. You knew you could trust her.
«Later then.»
Going for lunch, the two of you trailed behind the rest of the students and turned to a desert isle of the castle to gain some privacy.
You told her about Law's warning. At first, she was indignant. Then she agreed he must have said those words for a reason.
«Anyway, keeping this from Katakuri is not good.» she observed «It's an unspoken rule that we have to report him accidents like this when the House is concerned.»
«Trafalgar clearly said to pay attention to my mates. And I don't really know Katakuri, he's my senior.»
«You told me.»
«I trust you. Plus, you're not smart enough to plot something without me noticing.»
«Thanks.»
«You're welcome.»
You were considering talking with Reiju about it, but at the same time you didn't want to put her in a difficult position.
«You know whom you could talk to?»
You looked at Perona, following the flow towards the lunch.
«Who?»
«Killer. He's pretty knowledgeable and wise.»
«Yeah, and everything you tell him you're basically telling Kid too. And Kid would just straight up kill Trafalgar.» you sighed.
She shrugged.
«He did threaten us, after all.»
«But why would he...»
«Y/n-senpai!»
You swallowed back your words at the sight of Momonosuke waving at you, joining the group of students.
«Hey!» you smiled at him, patting his head «How is your first week going?»
«It's great! Everything looks so exciting!» he uttered with bright eyes.
«I'm happy to hear it.»
«You didn't tell me you were gonna compete in the Duelling on Friday!» the child said.
«Hum, because I'm not.»
He blinked at you.
«But the pairings of the first round are out already, and you're on it.»
You stopped.
«What?»
«They are hung outside of the Great Hall.»
You looked at Perona, who shook her head.
«This isn't happening.» you growled, speeding up.
A dense cloud of students was gathered at the entrance of the hall, studying the duelling table in excitement.
«EXCUSE ME.» you shouted, pushing them aside to reach it.
DUELLING CLUB TOURNAMENT
Round 1
Portgas D. Ace vs Longarm Ideo
Scratchmen Apoo vs Don Boo
Soap Kalifa vs East Bartolomeo
Shandia Wiper vs Vinsmoke Sanji
Monkey Koby vs Mink Carrot
Jewelry Bonney vs Blue Gilly
Edward Weevil vs Don Sai
Hyena Bellamy vs Eustass Kid
Basil Hawkins vs Neptune Manboshi
Vinsmoke Ichiji vs Neptune Fukaboshi
Charlotte Myukuru vs Vinsmoke Reiju
Owl Fukuro vs Heart Penguin
Trafalgar Law vs Fuoco Heat
East Yosaku vs Giraffe Kaku
Diez Drake vs Plain Gin
Ago Wire vs Monkey D. Sabo
Shimozuki Tashigi vs Donquixote Dellinger
Charlotte Katakuri vs Jean Bart
Whiteknight Cavendish vs Edward Haruta
Rhaba Abdullah vs Charlotte Raisin
Roronoa Zoro vs Kuja Margaret
Kamazo Killer vs Rhaba Jeet
Dragon Koala vs Vinsmoke Niji
Charlotte Cracker vs West Johnny
L/n D. F/n vs Artic Shachi
Neptune Ryuboshi vs Charlotte Smoothie
Beast Sheepshead vs Monkey D. Luffy
Jaya Laki vs Whiteknight Suleiman
Morgan Hermeppo vs Syrup Usopp
Vinsmoke Yonji vs Yuba Koza
Your eyes widened.
«What. The actual. Fuck.»
Chapter Text
«PROFESSOR DONQUIXOTE!» you shouted, stepping in the Great Hall.
Most of the students were having lunch at their tables, but the room grew quieter when you marched in savagely.
Among the teachers, Doflamingo tilted his head, the sly smirk crawling on his face.
«The little troublemaker has some trouble to report?»
«I FREAKING DO!» you barked, standing in front of the professors' table.
Principal Edward was not there, but most of the other teachers moved their focus to you.
Rocinante and Marco leaned closer, while Shanks looked at you without stopping chewing at his meat.
Jinbe, Mihawk and Lucci also turned to you.
For a moment, you felt intimidated and swallowed, then you cleared your voice.
«Someone enrolled me in the Duelling Club, even if I had no intention of being there this year.»
«Oh, really?» Doflamingo's tone sounded totally uninterested now.
«Really! Can I know who made the list?»
«I did.» he replied.
«Because...! Wait. You what?»
Taken aback, you blinked.
Corazon grimaced, looking at his brother.
«Seriously, Doffy?»
«But...! But you can't!» you stuttered, still not sure what was going on.
«All the previous participants are automatically re-enrolled every year unless they ask not to.»
«What?? I never heard about such rule before!»
«Well, miss, that's not my fault.»
Marco rolled his eyes at the colleague's attitude, while Shanks chuckled.
«You can back down if you want, miss L/n.» Doffy snickered «Of course, since the pairs have already been made, this would cost some points to our beloved house.»
You pressed your lips together.
Suddenly, you became very aware of all the students' eyes fixed on your back. Especially your housemates'.
Doflamingo had his victorious grin plastered on his tanned face.
«There's no need.» you grumbled, sharpening your eyes «I'll be there.»
«That's what I thought.» he sneered.
You looked at the other teachers.
«I'm sorry for bothering you during your lunch.»
«No problem! It's always fun when you're involved!»
You grimaced at Shanks' remark. He earned a glare from Mihawk too.
Back at your table, you slumped beside Perona, who had already started her meal.
«It didn't go so well, did it?»
You groaned, bumping your head on the table.
«Senpai?»
You rose your eyes at the childish voice.
Momonosuke was staring at you with concern in his big eyes.
«Are you okay?»
«Sure.» you smiled at him, ruffling his short hair «Nothing to worry about.»
«Hey, Y/n!»
Kid and his gang approached, taking the seats nearby and attacking their food with no hesitation. Momonosuke took a step back, intimidated.
«I saw you joined the Duelling Club.»
In the row in front of you, Dellinger snickered.
«You lost a quite interesting show just now.»
You snorted.
«I'd rather not talk about it.»
Kid shrugged, mouth full of food.
«Doesn't matter, does it? I'm gonna win the tournament.»
«Shut up, Eustass!» Cracker called from the other side of the table «The winner will be a Charlotte!»
You sighed, trying to ignore the umpteenth argument that burst around you.
Quickly swallowing your food, your eyes roamed across the hall to meet a sharp golden gaze.
On Ravenclaw table, Trafalgar stared at you for a second before standing up and heading outside, followed by his usual gang.
Shachi sent a devious glance at you, probably because he knew you were going to be his first opponent at the Duelling Club.
Ugh.
«Kid, Y/n, we're gonna be late for Ancient Runes.» Killer said, standing as well.
The redhead grumbled something, but you jerked on your feet.
«Shit, you're right!»
You quickly collected your stuff and helped Killer tearing Kid away from his lunch.
«See ya later, P.»
«Think about what I told you!» she waved as the three of you disappeared outside followed by Wire.
Ancient Runes was one of those elective subjects where students from all Houses were mixed together.
The desks were arranged in couples and you quickly reached the empty one Reiju reserved for you, like the year before.
«Hey!»
«Almost on time. You're getting better, Y/n.»
You rolled your eyes, pulling the book out from your bag.
Kid and Killer took place in the last row.
«How are things going in Ravenclaw?»
«Not as lively as in Gryffindor or Slytherin, judging by the rumours.»
«Ugh, don't make me thing about it. They are quarrelling all day long. And do you know what happened to me today?»
«If you're talking about Professor Donquixote clandestinely enrolling you in the Duelling Club, I doubt there is someone who doesn't know yet.»
You grimaced and she smirked.
«It's just the third day and you're already making news.»
«As always, not by choice.» you muttered.
«Oi, Trouble Maker!»
You glanced at the Gryffindor area.
Sabo gestured towards you. Koza, beside him, looked totally uninterested.
«I saw your little show at lunch!»
«Oh, please, no.»
He gave you his thumb up.
«Are you actually enrolled in the Triwizard Tournament too?»
«NO!» you scoffed as he sneered.
You crossed your arms on your chest.
«...getting back to your question,» Reiju started again «my housemates seem to be handling this Tournament thing pretty quietly.»
«Is there anything Ravenclaw doesn't handle quietly?»
«But» she continued «we had our first Quidditch training, and Trafalgar started an argument with Diez Drake, which is very unlike him. So I guess he is a bit nervous too.»
You frowned, rethinking about your latest interaction with Law.
Something was definitely up with that guy.
You were pondering whether telling Reiju about it, but Professor Nico Robin walked into the room and the lesson started.
«Today's class will be about Parseltongue.» the woman announced, after indicating the right pages on the book.
Slytherin students immediately became more attentive.
«Across the ages, wizards and witches able to speak this language have always been very rare. It is an innate ability that cannot be learnt. However, our ancestors found a way to translate this kind of communication into writing – in ancient runes indeed.»
Tashigi raised her hand.
«Is it true that people able to speak it must be registered at the Minister?»
Nico Robin nodded.
«It's kind of controversial, nowadays, because of the privacy issue. The problem is that Parseltongue has been historically associated with dark magic. I suppose you all know the story of the Chamber of Secret, here in Hogwarts.»
«That happened ages ago.» Yonji scoffed «We hadn't a Parseltongue speaker ever since.»
«How would you know?» Hawkins quietly replied.
«It's not like they would go around advertising it.» Koza agreed.
«Silence please.» Robin required before continuing «This is not what the lesson is about. Today we are going to learn some runes indicating basic commands in Parseltongue, since you can still find ancient doors sealed by it. This could be useful especially for our future Triwizard champions, so make sure to pass the information in case they are not in this class.»
This last trick assured the complete attention of most of the boys for the rest of the class.
At the end of the lesson, Reiju waited for you to get your bag ready to walk out together.
«Was there something you wanted to ask?»
You curled your lips.
«Well, I–»
«Hey, Reiju.»
You both turned to the little group of Ravenclaw girls, right outside the classroom.
Monet and Kalifa glanced at you coldly, while Tashigi stayed aside, eyes avoiding yours.
«How come you still hang out with that girl? You know Slytherins are trouble.»
You quirked an eyebrow.
«Excuse me?»
Reiju placed a calming hand on your arm and gave them her confident smile.
«I'm pretty sure I get to choose whom I hang out with. Plus, three of my brothers are in Slytherin, so try not to offend my own family, please.»
Kalifa emitted a high-pitched scoff, but she turned and walked away, followed by the other two.
«I thought Ravens were quiet people, but you have your fair amount of bitches, I see.» you commented.
The pinkette sighed.
«This tournament enhanced the rivalry between the Houses. And it will get worse when it starts.»
«That sucks, especially for you. Will you be okay?»
She smiled.
«Don't worry about me, Y/n. Most of my Housemates are decent people.»
Suddenly, you decided to trust her.
She had been one of your best friends since the first year, after all.
«Do you have time now? There's something I would like to tell you, in private.»
It was a cold autumn day, with orange leaves flying around the Black Lake.
The two of you chose a desert spot on the shore, under a huge oak.
You told her about your encounter with Trafalgar Law and his strange warning.
Reiju listened to you carefully, tapping her long finger against her chin.
«He had been more circumspect than usual, actually.» she said «I have no idea what he was talking about though. Looks like he thinks someone from your House is doing something bad. But... "like last time"?»
«Yeah, it's strange. Something that happened already?» you shrugged «Honestly, we started so much shit I don't even know what to think.»
«Who else knows about this?»
«Just me and Perona. I didn't report to Katakuri or told anyone else. Trafalgar was aggressive with me, sure, but if I talk to my housemates they will eat him alive.»
«I agree.»
«This is not good though.» you bit your inner cheek «If he does something, I would be responsible too for not warning my comrades.»
«I see. Let's do it like this: I will keep an eye of him and try to figure out what's his problem. You keep an eye on the other Slytherins, just in case. What do you say?»
«I like it.»
You offered her your hand and she squeezed it.
Neither of you noticed the ginger guy peering at you on the other side of the lake.
Notes:
A little reminder to everyone that you can find much more of my content on my Wattpad account!
(I have the same username there)
Chapter 9: Hogwarts everyday life
Chapter Text
«I'll see you at dinner.» Reiju said, touching your arm, before turning and heading to Ravenclaw's chambers.
You waved at her and took the stairs to the dungeons.
The castle was swarming with students, cheering, talking to each other and hurrying to their elective classes, all in their long black uniforms.
«Oho, look whom we have here!»
You raised an eyebrow and looked up.
Bellamy was descending the stairs, hands in his pockets and tongue hanging between his teeth, as typical.
«Ugh, Hyena, I don't feel like dealing with you now.»
The Hufflepuff student flashed you his sly smirk, leaning against the railing.
«Wait, wait, little troublemaker.»
You groaned, stopping.
«What do you want?»
«Are you being the deceiver everyone says?»
You frowned, shooting him a death glare.
«I beg your pardon?»
«Yeah, like you said you wouldn't take part in the Duelling Club, but there you are. Is it the same for the Triwizard Tournament?»
A surge of rage made you shiver, but you grit your teeth.
«Mind your own business, Bellamy.»
«Oh, you got nothing to say?»
You turned to hiss him some insults, but a small group coming down the stairs brusquely bumped into him.
Bellamy cursed and grasped the railing not to fall.
«Who the fuck–»
«Oh, Hyena, I didn't see you there.»
The Hufflepuff stopped in front of the Slytherin redhead deadpanning down at him.
«Eustass.» he spat in contempt «Are you trying to pick up a fight with your senior?»
«Are you trying to pick up a fight with Slytherin, Bellamy?» Killer asked, startling him.
He had rapidly passed him and positioned behind him, blocking him between him and Kid. Heat and Wire crossed their arms nearby.
Bellamy's gaze bounced from one student to the other.
«Cool down, Hyena, for your own good.» Kid smirked «I'll see you on the ring of the Duelling Club, senior.»
The blond Hufflepuff grunted, shoving his hands back in his pockets.
«You betcha.» he grumbled «Fucking Slytherin.»
He walked around Killer, avoiding his sharp glare, and headed away.
You sighed.
«Thanks, guys. I'm getting real sick of all these people harassing me to take part to this or that.»
Kid snickered as the group joined you down the stairs and toward the dungeons. Killer patted your shoulder.
«You are not the only one, Y/n. I heard during Divination there was a serious quarrel involving Basil, Jewelry and Cavendish. The twins are planning to take out Trafalgar real soon, and looks like Weevil clashed against Monkey D. Luffy early this morning.»
«Ugh. It's only day three and things are getting out of control, aren't they?»
«Feathered Serpent» Wire recited to make the painting of the 5 Gorosei open the path to Slytherin chambers.
Once you peered in the dungeons, you were welcomed by a very unhappy Cavendish, making a scene in the middle of the common room.
«I WAS ATTACKED FIRST BY THAT BITCH, AND WE LOST POINTS NEVERTHELESS!»
He was yelling and agitating his arms around. Katakuri stood in front of him, listening to his complains.
«Here he goes, crying to the sugardaddy.»
«What did you just said, Eustass?!» he hissed, suddenly turning to you.
Woha, fine hearing.
«Did you at least kick her ass?» Kid scoffed.
Cavendish snorted.
«I was going to, then that damn Ravenclaw got involved and...»
«So you didn't. Classic.»
The blond sharpened his eyes.
«At least I didn't piss myself in front of a boggart.»
Kid became livid and pulled the wand out instantly.
«Repeat it, if you dare.»
«Enough!» Katakuri growled, stepping in the middle.
All the other people in the room had backed to the walls, with the only exception of Killer, who was standing behind the redhead, hand on his own wand.
«The situation is already tense even when we don't snap against each other.» the Charlotte stated «I ask you, everyone of you, not to start shit within members of your own House. At least until our champions are chosen, put aside the inner rivalry, please.»
Kid and Cavendish kept glaring at each other but they slowly released their grip on their wands.
You let out a breath you had been holding.
Perona reached you from the other side of the hall while the other students went back to their business.
«Everything's fine?»
«Yeah, yeah. I can't wait for this stupid tournament to start so at least people will get excited for that and leave the rest alone.»
A small "pop" in the middle of the room caught everyone's attention again.
Suddenly, a big silver flamingo materialized by the fireplace.
«Fufufufu, good evening my chicks.» the Patronus spoke with Doflamingo's voice «Can I have Mr. Cavendish and Miss Y/n attention please?»
The two of you frowned and got closer.
«It's a pleasure to inform you that your Occlumency lessons will start tonight at ten pm in the usual place.»
You nodded.
«Thanks, Professor.»
«You're very welcome. And, Eustass Kid?»
He snorted.
«Yeah.»
«Same goes for your Telekinesis class.»
«Fine.»
The flamingo dissolved in the air.
There were three special classes taught in Hogwarts: Occlumency, Telekinesis and Animagi practice.
They were reserved for the students who manifested some natural inclination to those peculiar powers.
In your grade, only you, Cavendish and Basil Hawkins were enrolled in the Occlumency course, but the real genius in it was, as always, Katakuri.
As for Telekinesis, the group was composed by Kid, Law and the Gryffindor Leo. However, as far as you knew, that was basically a ring for Kid and Trafalgar to brawl.
You spent the hours before dinner sleeping, which was your strategy to avoid further problems, until Perona woke you up and you joined the rest of your House in the Great Hall of the castle.
Nothing major happened, with the exception of a few more students putting their name in the Goblet of Fire.
Later that night, you and Cavendish reached a small classroom on top of the West tower, where Professor Riku Viola was waiting for you.
For some reason, Hawkins was not there that night.
«So, Cavendish, how is it with your nightmares?» Viola kindly asked, once you both sat in front of her.
«Not bad, I guess.» the blond replied «Hakuba has been quite calm this summer. Probably thanks to the magic seals.»
«That's good to hear. What about you, Y/n?»
«Huh, I'm fine. Nothing strange happened from last year.»
«Good. Let's see how much you remember from your classes, then: I'll try to get in your head and you'll try to stop me.»
It was a tiring hour of training.
Viola was a sweet woman, but she was also a very powerful witch and one of the most skilled in Occlumency of your age.
You and Cavendish were both exhausted while heading back to the dungeons.
«I want to sleep for a week.» you yawned.
The castle was buried in the darkness, and no one seemed to be around anymore.
«It's quite hard to deal with these late night cla–»
Cavendish stopped abruptly and looked around.
You immediately halted as well and widened your eyes.
«What?»
«Shh! I think there's someone else here.»
You quickly glanced at all the dark corners of the long, narrow corridor.
Nothing moved or appeared.
After about one minute, you frowned.
«Cav, I don't see anything.»
He curled his lips, but shrugged.
«Maybe I imagined it.»
«Let's go.»
You lightly pushed him towards the stairs.
When you finally reached your room, the other girls were already deeply asleep.
You changed in your bedclothes and fell asleep instantly as well.
Thursday started rather easy.
You had two hours of Potions with Prof. Clown during which Sabo and Ace managed to blow up their caldron, one theoretical hour of Transfiguration and two hours of Charms.
The "good" professor Donquixote had a propaedeutic lesson to help the student developing their Patronus, in agreement with Prof. Akagami.
«Sometimes it's useful to start without a tangible threat in front of you.» he said, walking among the desks while the students practiced the movement of the wand and the pronunciation of the spell «For some of us it's easier, while for who had it rough might be more of a challenge. Don't be ashamed if you don't obtain good results immediately.»
You glanced at Kid, sat a few places in front of you.
He looked more resolute now, sharp eyes focusing on the perfect movement. Killer, beside him, was doing rather well, with silver sparkles erupting from his wand once in a while.
You pouted, since absolutely nothing was happening to yours. Even Perona was doing better.
The absolute best, though, was Trafalgar Law, on Ravenclaw's side.
You didn't know if he was that good even during Shanks' test, since you didn't share that class, but silver waves were constantly coming out of his wand. They even outlined the shape of a big cat, once.
«Very well, Law.» Corazon said, leaning on his desk. He couldn't help the proud grin that bent his painted lips «Ten points to Ravenclaw!»
«Teacher's pet.» Raisin hissed, behind you.
After lunch, it was time for Ghoul Study, another elective subject taught by Prof. Bonekichi Brook. Rather convenient, for an undead to teach a class about the undeads.
«Yohohoho! Welcome again to a new academic year!» the cheerful skeleton uttered «It's a pleasure to see you all back! Now, have anyone of you had some transcendental encounter during summer?»
«This guy cracks me up.» you smiled.
Perona didn't reply, so you turned just to see her sparkling eyes.
That was, without a doubt, her favourite subject.
«What an idiot.» Kid grumbled from behind «Like it was easy to meet an undead since they ghettoised the vampir–»
«I think I did.»
You all squinted towards the Ravenclaw student that bashfully raised his hand.
Penguin cleared his voice as Brook turned to him.
«Well, huh, I'm not sure they exactly count as undead, but... I think I saw a Dementor, this July.»
The class fell silent.
«A Dementor?» Prof. Bonekichi asked.
«Hum, yeah. I was going back home at night, after a party. It was dark, and... all of a sudden the air grew cold, and I felt... filled with fear and pain.» Penguin's eyes dropped on his hands «I slid in an alley, but a black shadow followed me, and I was... petrified. Then I heard some voices coming closer, and the creature quickly flew away. The memory is blurred, so I don't remember exactly...»
His words were greeted with silence by the rest of the class.
The skeleton, usually so goofy, seemed serious for once.
«Did you report the incident?»
«Not really, I...» Penguin blushed «I was drunk. I didn't want any trouble.»
«That idiot!» Kid hissed «I'm sure he was trashed! He's delusional.»
You frowned, staring at him.
It didn't look like he was lying to you.
Brook sighed.
«Well, Dementors were banned and hunted down plenty of years ago, but it's not like they are extinct. I'm not sure what you saw, kid, but it's not impossible you actually ran into one, though it would be strange. Next time, make sure to report to the authorities.»
«Yes, professor.»
Yosaku raised his hand.
«Anyway, is it correct to refer to Dementors as undead?»
«A good question, yohoho!» Brook sat on his desk «Does someone know the answer?»
Perona grinned and jumped up, excited.
«It's not really known what those creatures are!» she began «They are more like powerful spectres. Nobody ever found a way to actually kill them, but, if kept without their feeding source, they don't multiply and eventually decrease, which means they disappear, somehow.»
«Very well, miss! Ten points to Slytherin!»
She squealed, sitting down.
«And who knows what's their feeding source?»
Perona stood again, but this time Koza preceded her.
«People's positive emotions.» he said «They drain humans dry of them.»
«Correct! Five points to Gryffindor.»
Your friend puffed her cheeks in a pout, while Kid elbowed you.
«Hey, Y/n,» he sneered «why didn't you answer that? You better start making up for all the points you already lost.»
«Looks who's talking!» you scoffed «I bet you lost more than I did!»
«Don't worry, I'll win them back once I get selected for the Triwizard Tournament!»
«Eustass and L/n! Minus five points for Slytherin!»
You both bumped your heads on your desks with a groan.
Chapter 10: #IcandowhateverIwant
Chapter Text
You groaned as Usopp patiently showed you again how to bury a Mandrake to muffle its indecent cry.
«Sorry I'm that bad at this.»
«You're surely better than last year, when you almost killed the entire class with Medusa's tentacles.»
You glared at him, face stained with soil.
«Thank you for reminding me and being such and encouraging tutor.»
The Gryffindor students chuckled.
«Anytime.»
You shrugged and focused on cautiously trim the protruding leaves without hurting the plant.
«Well, you're stuck here with me anyway. So thank you for that, I guess.»
«Don't mention it. I don't always get to mock Slytherin students and getting extra credits for it.»
The Mandrake somehow managed to pop its head out of the soil and started screaming again.
You instinctively hit it, knocking it out.
«...ops.»
«Oh, maaan.» Usopp sighed «You do realize you need an healthy one to pass the class, don't you?»
«I know, I know. These things are just too annoying.»
«Yeah, they are annoyed by you.»
A second later, Usopp grimaced at his own words and shot a semi-terrified glance at you.
«Please, please, don't ask Eustass and his band to kill me.»
«What?! Who do you think I am?» you pouted, brusquely adjusting the vases of your suffering plants «First of all, I don't need to ask Kid to kill you, I'd do it myself if I wanted.»
«That's... very reassuring?»
«Second of all, why would I want my tutor dead?»
The cold wind of late September was blowing outside the greenhouse, moving the foliage of the Forbidden Forest, visible at the horizon.
You didn't have classes on Thursday afternoon, so you arranged extra lessons of Herbology, which was your weakness.
Usopp was a Gryffindor student, a year younger than you, but particularly talented on the subject.
His uncle Heracles was known throughout the country for being able to purchase and grow any kind of magical herb from all around the globe, and the young wizard spent most of the summers with him.
Even if he belonged to Monkey D. Luffy's gang, you didn't have any problem with him. He was actually pretty cool.
«Hum, it's getting dark. Better head back to the castle.» he murmured, grabbing a few tools to put them away.
You threw him a crooked smirk.
«Afraid of the dark? I thought Gryffindors were supposed to be brave.»
Yeah, the fact that he was pretty cool didn't mean you wouldn't tease him a little, if the occasion arose.
«Shut up.» he scoffed, leading the way out of the greenhouse.
Hit by the cold, you both wrapped your coats around your bodies and hurried down the path.
The weather was grey and freezing, and there were no other people on the hill.
«How is it in Gryffindor? Excited for the Tournament?»
«Ugh, don't make me think about it.» Usopp sighed «Pretty much everyone put their name in the Goblet, and now they are fighting all the time for who will be chosen.»
«Did you put in your name too?»
He bent his mouth.
«...no.»
You frowned.
Looked like he wasn't particularly fond of his own answer.
«Well, you still have time.»
«What about you?»
«I didn't either. I just want a peaceful year, possibly winning the Quidditch cup, and–»
«USOPP!»
Interrupted by the cheerful yell, you both turned towards the Quidditch pitch.
The entire Gryffindor team was walking down the hill, covered in mud and brooms on their shoulders, back from their training.
Luffy was running ahead to greet his friend, still full of energy.
«Why didn't you come and see us?! We started off great, shishishishi!» he laughed when he reached you «Oh, hi, Y/n!»
«Hi, Monkey.» you lazily greeted him.
«Oooh, look who's there! The enemy's seeker.» Ace sneered, walking over with the rest of the team.
He didn't even bother to adjust his tie, as always.
«I heard Slytherin didn't have a good opening training, this year.» Bonney teased.
You frowned.
«That's some big talk, coming from a benchwarmer.»
An angry grimace curled her features, but Vinsmoke Sanji jumped ahead.
«Y/n~! It's great to see you! You're bright as always!»
«And you're an idiot, as always.» Zoro grumbled beside him.
«What did you just say, damn Marimo?!»
«Shishishishi!»
You pinched the bridge of your nose.
Oh god, I cannot deal with a whole squad at the same time.
«I feel you.» Sabo smiled, rubbing his nape «Don't mind them. The adrenalin is still pumping in their veins.»
«Hey, you are their captain, you should keep them under control.»
«I'm afraid it's not possible.»
«That's right.» Nami chimed, moving beside you «And this year I'll catch that snitch before you, Y/n.»
You gave her your challenging sneer.
«We'll see about that, ginger. Also, you should worry about Ravenclaw first.»
«Yeah, that Trafalgar is annoying-dabe.» Bartolomeo grunted, rolling his battered broom on his arm «We'll just take him down with the bludgers.»
Gryffindor strategy is taking down the seeker with the bludgers, noted.
That could be annoying though, since you were the seeker, and their Beaters were Roronoa and Vinsmoke, freaking talented.
You finally stepped into the castle, in the middle of the team, still quarrelling with Ace and Nami.
«Monkey! Portgas!»
Sabo and Ace jumped at the shrill yell that welcomed them in the entrance.
Professor Giolla, the Art teacher, stood in front of the team, planting her fists in her abundant hips.
«What you kids think you're doing, entering here all covered in dirt? Minus fifteen points to Gryffindor!»
«WHAT?!» Bartolomeo barked, but Sabo grabbed his arm.
«Shh, dude, don't make it worse.»
«Go get clean before joining for dinner!» the Slytherin professor commanded, pointing at the stairs «Come on, go, go!»
A few rival students around sneered at the grumbling team moving away, while Gryffindors insulted Giolla under their breath.
You waved at them with a sigh.
Unfortunately for them, the flight of stairs decided to move in the opposite direction while they were on it, among general laughter.
The only Gryffindor who seemed to find it funny as well was Luffy.
«Oi, troublemaker!»
You turned to see your housemate Sheepshead coming over with heavy strides. He didn't look pleased.
«What you think you are doing, walking among the enemies?»
Your eyebrows knitted together.
«Among the enemies?»
«You were laughing with Gryffindor's team, am I wrong?» he inquired, crossing his arms on his chest.
Your eyes sharpened.
«Yes, because I can laugh with whomever I want.»
«Are you causing trouble to your own House too, now?»
You felt the blood flowing warmer in your face.
You wanted to reply viciously, but Katakuri's request popped out in your mind and you restrained your tongue.
«What the hell is your problem, Sheepshead? We agreed not to start shit between each other, didn't we?»
He snorted.
«Yeah, be thankful for that.»
«No, you be thankful for that. Otherwise I would not be so gentle with you right now.»
He glared at you before turning his back.
«I'm watching you, trouble maker.»
You observed him disappearing in a corridor.
Seriously, what's wrong with everybody?
«I heard you hang around with Gryffindor, now.» Perona snickered.
You snorted and dropped your fork in the plate.
The dinner was chaotic as always, with all the students and the teachers gathered in the Great Hall.
«What?»
«Sheepshead went around "warning us" about you.» she explained mimicking the quoting marks with her long fingers «At least until Kid threatened to punch him in the face if he didn't shut up.»
«Really?»
You glanced a few seats away, where Kid sat with his usual group.
He was laughing about something but, when his eyes randomly met yours, he quickly moved them away.
You were not sure, but a light flush maybe appeared on his pale cheeks.
«Aww, look at that. The terrifying Eustass is blushing.» Perona whispered beside you.
«Shut it!» you hissed, lightly hitting her shoulder «He's a good friend and a good teammate. We have each other's back.»
«Yeah, yeah, sure.» she chuckled «Anyway, you might want to keep it low, at least until the Tournament starts. Don't hang around with other Houses too much, or at least not with Gryffindor.»
«I'll hang out with whom I want.» you grumbled.
Raisin's scoff surprised you.
He was sitting in front of you, but you didn't think he would follow your conversation.
«You're being selfish.» he said.
You raised an eyebrow.
«Excuse me?»
He looked back at you, unfazed by your indignation, and hinted towards the end of the table, where the freshmen sat.
You followed his gaze, and you saw something you hadn't noticed before.
Momonosuke sat alone, eating quietly on his own. The rest of the first-year students had left an empty space as a buffer between him and them, and were all enjoying their meal together.
You frowned.
«What does this mean?»
«You're friend with that kid, aren't you?» Raisin said «Maybe that's why he's following your example and he's hanging out with students from other Houses.»
«That's bullshit! Is that why they're isolating him?»
Raisin shook his head at your stupidity.
«L/n, you do whatever you want because you know you won't be outcast by your housemates. You're prefect, part of the Quidditch team and proved your value on various occasions. But you're stupid if you think everyone can act like you and have it easy.»
You opened your mouth to retort, but you realized you didn't actually know what to say.
He had a point.
You wouldn't stop talking to Reiju or any other person just because your housemates wanted you to. What people thought didn't matter to you, and you were ready to face the consequences of your decision. Maybe also because you didn't really expect Kid, or Katakuri, or the Vinsmokes to target you, or even isolate you.
But that wasn't true for everyone.
You pressed your lips together.
«I'll see what I can do about it.»
During the rest of the dinner, you couldn't avoid to repeatedly peek at Momo's lonely meal.
Chapter 11: Before the Duelling Club
Chapter Text
«Focus! Focus on your happiest memory!» Prof. Akagami uttered as the false Dementor flew around the classroom.
All the students from both Gryffindor and Slytherin were standing, wands unsheathed, ready to ward off against the boggart.
«That's payback, bitch!» Ace yelled when a sprout of silver sparkles finally erupted from his wand and the ghost headed away.
It floated towards Slytherin's side, but Killer jumped forward and engaged it first.
«Expecto patronus!»
New silver flames appeared, pushing the false Dementor farther.
You caught Kid pouting at his friend's back with the corner of your eye.
It soon became obvious that the ghost was mostly attracted to Vinsmoke Sanji and Kid. Even if they both managed to stand up to it this time, they weren't able to form the outline of a Patronus yet.
You were also having your problems, but when the boggart targeted you, you and Perona joined you charms and successfully sent it away.
«Accio boggart» Shanks finally chanted, pulling the creature back in its box.
You all let out a breath and sat at your desks.
«Very good class, very good. I saw some nice improvement there.» he grinned, giving you a thumb up «Don't feel frustrated. The ability to form a Patronus has nothing to do with your inner talent, it's more linked to your past. As I said before, you have to find a powerful memory.»
You heard Kid's half-grumble from your seat.
«Yeah, that's easy for you to say, douchebag.»
«Alright, class is dismissed! I hope to see you all tonight at the Duelling Tournament, and good luck to the contestants!»
«Ugh.» you muttered, standing up and putting your book back in your bag.
«Why don't you just call it off?» Perona sighed, following the flow out of the room.
«And being called the coward of Slytherin? No thanks. Plus, it's not like I'm going against Katakuri or anything.»
«Yeah, Y/n!» Ginrummy jumped in from behind «You can totally take down Trafalgar's lackey!»
«Hey, no pressure.» you huffed «I'll do my best. We'll see how it goes.»
«Wow, you're cranky today.»
You glared at your friends, but Killer waved at you.
«Y/n! Are you coming to Theory of Magic?»
«Yeah, sure.»
With a quick greet to the girls, you reached him and joined him across the various flight of stairs.
The elective class was all the way across the castle, and the stairs weren't collaborative that morning.
When you reached the last flight for the sixth floor, you noticed it was just swinging from side to side endlessly, with a bunch of students stuck at the end. After a better look, you recognized they were all people supposed to take the class with you.
Most of them were from Ravenclaw, and they shot devious glances when you arrived.
With the Duelling Club tournament approaching, the rivalry between Houses was pretty much igniting.
«So... are we going to miss this class or what?» you shrugged with a careless smile, trying to cut the tension.
Shachi and Penguin sharpened their eyes at you, but Tashigi gasped.
«We really shouldn't! Professor Dracule wouldn't be happy about it!»
«We already tried to lock the two ends together.» Drake said, leaning against the railing and watching you warily «Didn't work.»
«Looks like someone enchanted the flight.» Monet hissed.
«Are you implying it was us?» Killer replied, crossing his arms.
«Well, you Slytherins are famous for this king of bullshit.»
You glared at her and marched forward, between the Ravenclaws.
She and Shachi tensed up at first, but you surpassed them. Drake just followed you with his eyes, and Tashigi seemed curious to see what you were up to.
You unsheathed your wand.
«I'm going to try and lock it once again. Whoever wants to get to the other side can help out.» you growled, before taking aim «Coniungo!»
Green glowing wires erupted from the end of your wand and waved up to the ledge when the stairs passed close to it.
You focused all your energy to make them stop and link the path, but you could feel the strength of the enchanted stone pulling against you.
«Oh, c'mon!» you cursed, grabbing the wand with your two hands.
Just when you were about to lose the grasp, other green wires joined yours, tightening the grip.
You quickly looked to see Killer by your side.
He smirked at you before both your faces distorted again in the effort.
«What the...! How is this so freaking difficult?» he growled.
The flight of stairs slowed down against your two locks, but it wasn't enough. It kept pulling away steadily.
«Care to join?!» you grunted to the Ravenclaws, sweat pouring down your forehead.
«This failed before. It's not like you two can do anything.» Monet commented.
«Coniugo.»
It was Drake that took a step forward to add his magic deep-blue wires to yours.
The flight of stairs was not so close to the ledge anymore, but further slowed its swinging with the three of you.
You felt a small relief when the effort was shared with one more wizard, but it wasn't enough yet.
«Who the hell enchanted this shit?!»
«Coniugo!»
Tashigi joined in. Then Shachi and Penguin exchanged a look before finally doing the same.
Since there wasn't too much space at the edge of the flight, you were all pressed against each other, with arms extended and wands linked to the other side.
Students on the corridors above and below stopped to admire the scene, some laughing at you, some impressed to see students in green and blue working together.
Finally, Monet reluctantly added her charm to yours, being the only one left standing there.
The flight of stairs stopped moving, but it was still extremely heavy to tug it back to the ledge.
«C'moooon!» you growled among the strained grunts of your comrades.
Inch by inch, the stone flight was getting closer.
«It's too hard...!» Shachi panted.
«Coniugo.»
The new charm brushed against your temple from behind, moving your hair.
When the blue wires joined all the others, the effort was suddenly halved, and the stairs started to slide back in place.
Woha, so powerful...!
You glanced back to see Trafalgar Law standing behind you, wand in hand.
With his help, it didn't take long before the lock was secured and all of you were able to jump to the other side.
Many students from the other levels cheered when you did, mainly the ones from Ravenclaw. You spotted Sabo on the lower floor, leaning against the railing with a smirk. He winked at you when your gazes met.
You waved at him, then turned to hurry to your class.
«Amazing, Law! You could have done it on your own!» Penguin chimed while they preceded you along the corridor. Law just shrugged.
«Oi, Killer.» you called softly, leaning closer to your mate «Did you feel his charm? It was fucking strong.»
«It was.» the blond hummed «We'll better watch out for him tonight, at the Duelling Club.»
Theory of Magic was taught by Professor Dracule, the Head of Ravenclaw.
He wasn't particularly impressed when many of you entered his class just on time, but he didn't comment, allowing you to take a seat before starting his lesson.
You and Killer joined Ichiji, who was already there.
«Does any of you know how charms like the Unbreakable Vow are possible?»
«Well, yeah.» Jeet tilted his head «You swear something to someone under magical influence, you break your vow, you die.»
«Thank you for a magnificent example of oversimplifying something very complex.» Mihawk said, walking among the desks «Anyone else wants to try?»
After a few seconds of silence, Law raised his hand.
«It works like a curse.» he explained «When you make a vow under someone else's magical influence, you're allowing them to curse your name.»
Prof. Dracule nodded.
«Precisely. And that is why a wizard's name is so important. Let's take the Goblet of Fire, for example: to join the competition, you hand your name over to the flames. When the Goblet chooses your name, it is cursed, until you prove yourself in the tournament.»
«But what about the past, then?» you asked «People were able to put other names in the flames with no permission whatsoever.»
«True. Other wizard can curse your name, can't they?»
«I suppose...» you mumbled.
«Your name is your blood. It can carry your destiny. That is how things like prophecies work as well.»
«In other words, blood is important.» Ichiji added.
Of course, the Vinsmokes were a pure family, and as many purebloods they deemed that the most important thing in the world.
Mihawk sent a sharp glare in his direction before continuing.
«Yes. But it's not everything. Blood alone cannot fulfil a prophecy. Wizards and witches do.»
A small smile involuntarily bent your lips at his words.
«When the Goblet will choose its names, it won't be on the basis of the purest blood. It'll choose the ones with the most powerful will. Now, about that, open your books to page forty-two.»
The rest of the lesson proceeded smoothly, and you ended up hurrying at lunch alongside Killer, since you had a Quidditch training session immediately after.
«Come on, come on, come oooon!» Kid shouted in your ears as you both shoved food in your mouth like there was no tomorrow.
«Opfay, this attitude is nof gonna make me any fatter.» Killer grumbled, trying to chew and not to choke at the same time.
That made you spit your own food out in a laugh, you assumed he meant faster, still it worked best that way.
«I'm gonna puke.» you mumbled while the three of you ran outside with the broom sticks on your shoulders, under the light rain.
The training was kinda frustrating. You were too tensed for the tournament to focus on the snitch, so it flew under your nose multiple times and you almost never managed to grab it.
Below you, the three Vinsmokes were desperately trying to stop Katakuri from barging into their defences and score with the quaffle, failing as well apparently.
In the end, you were all soaked and covered in mud, with the only exception of Katakuri, who looked impeccable as always.
«Okay, that's enough for today.» he announced.
You were not really sure about how Kid and Killer were training, but judging from the bruise on the blond's cheek and the fact he looked rather pissed, you figured Kid hit him with the bludger.
«I will see you all tonight at the Duelling tournament.» Katakuri concluded.
Ugh.
You dragged your feet back towards the castle alongside your comrades.
Once in the dorm, you had barely the time to have a quick shower and change before everyone swarmed outside and up the stairs for the hall on the third floor, where the tournament was going to be held.
«Oh, come on.» Perona huffed, grabbing your arm and tugging you with the other girls.
Smoothie was walking in front of you with her sisters, their long black uniforms proudly waving around their ankles.
«I don't feel like doing it. I'm tired. I wanna go to sleep.» you grumbled, letting Perona dragging you with the other Slytherins.
«Quit complaining. Just go there, throw a couple of charms and call it a night.»
«And kick the Ravenclaw's ass.» Ginrummy added.
The hall had been arranged with four high fighting rings in the centre and elegant bleachers on the side.
Most of the professors had already taken a seat, with the principal and Aokiji in the middle.
Floating torches were filling the room with waving glares, and huge tapestries with the symbols of the Houses draped the walls.
Each one of the four corners was decorated with the colours of one particular House, and the head professors were waiting for their students there.
«I thought it was supposed to be an individual competition.» Usopp whispered to Sanji.
The Gryffindors had entered the room shortly before you and were now looking around.
Your focused drifted to professor Donquixote, who gestured you all to reach him with his sly grin.
«Good luck!» Perona quickly whispered before leaving and joining the other students sitting on the chairs around.
You let out a deep sigh and followed your housemates towards Doflamingo.
«What's the matter, troublemaker? You look a bit grey.» Cracker sniggered.
You just shot him a glare.
The contestants of each House gathered in a corner around their professor.
«Good evening, chicks.» Doflamingo smiled.
Your nose curled, knowing it was because of his machination you were there now, but this time you decided to keep your mouth shut.
After most of the people had arrived, Principal Edward finally stood. This was the call for silence in the hall.
«My hatchlings!» Whitebeard roared «I'm proud to see so many of you eager to take part to the Duelling tournament! Be sure to give our guest a damn good show!»
Clapping echoed in the room and the other professor Donquixote stood.
«Amplificandum.» he spoke, pointing the wand to his own throat and making his voice more powerful «Ah-hem, very well. As you already know, this is not a competition between the Houses. Contestants may compete against their housemates and there will be only one winner, in the end. Nevertheless, ranking high will bring points to your House. During the preliminary rounds, we will host four duels at a time. Victory will grant the participant twenty points and the qualification to the second round. Impartial judges will call your names, so pay attention. Good luck to everyone!»
As he finished talking, he himself walked up to one of the small arenas, followed by Brook, Marco and Crocodile – one professor from each House.
«Oi, chicks.»
You turned to Doflamingo like the others around, with some of you looking quite annoyed by the pet name.
«Don't you dare showing me any pathetic stuff.» he lowly said with his sadistic smirk.
Such an amazing pep talk.
As the four judges started to call students, participants from all corners walked over the centre of the hall, while the ones on the chairs began cheering and rooting for their mates.
«It's okay, Y/n.» Killer said «Your first opponent is not that strong, you can totally win.»
«You have to!» Kid blurted «How humiliating would it be to get defeated by one of Trafalgar's lackeys?»
Your head dropped and Killer elbowed him in the ribs.
«...no pressure, huh?»
Kid's entire gang was there, along with the Vinsomeks, many of the Charlottes (including Katakuri, Cracker and Smoothie obviously), Cavendish, Blue Gilly, Suleiman and Dellinger. Blue Gilly was the first Slytherin being called.
Soon enough, the hall was filled with yells and colourful charms flying around, as well as people getting knocked out the rings.
You noticed the Gryffindors were pretty much nailing it, with Ace, Bartolomeo and Bonney securing a quick win. Not so fun, especially since Bonney was up against Blue Gilly.
Threats and boos echoed from your part.
Apoo fiercely defeated Boo though, and you didn't miss his eyes searching for you before he snickered.
The first matches were proceeding pretty fast.
Koby vs. Carrot took a bit longer than the others, and most were surprised when the Hufflepuff male actually managed to snatch out victory from the talented Gryffindor.
Sai put up a strenuous resistance against Weevil, but the bully's charm were made of pure raw power. No matter how dumb he was, each one of his spells was a shockwave of energy that made him a dangerous adversary.
After that, Marco called Kid and Bellamy's names.
«Let me show you how it's done.» Kid smirked, wand in his hand.
«Good luck.» you whispered.
Chapter 12: Duelling Club - qualifiers
Chapter Text
«Eustass Kid wins! Twenty points to Slytherin!» Marco declared, raising his hand as Bellamy tumbled out of the ring.
Your side of the crowd burst in cheers while a number of glowing green beads descended in the lower part of the big hourglass.
Four hourglasses, one for each House, had been placed in the corner of the hall for entrainment purposes, and beads in green, red, gold and blue where constantly adding to the respective pile, showing how victories were distributed.
At the moment, Gryffindor was on the lead, followed by Hufflepuff, surprisingly.
«YES!» you yelled, as Kid secured the first win for Slytherin.
A malicious grin curled the lips of the redhead.
«Sorry, senior.» he spat towards Bellamy's enraged face, before turning and joining your group.
«That was a great match, Kid!» you blurted, unable to stop smiling.
His grin faltered for a second.
«Thanks.» he quickly muttered.
«Good job, man.» Killer stated, punching his shoulder.
In the following duels, Ichiji conquered another victory for Slytherin, and you held your breath following Reiju's match, but your friend managed to win against her housemate with her usual grace.
«Yohoho! Fuoco Heat and Trafalgar Law on ring two, please!» Brook called after congratulating the Vinsmoke.
High-pitched cheers rose from the girls in the audience as Law stepped up.
«Heat, you can do it!» you stated, grabbing his arm «Don't let him scare you!»
«I'm not–»
«Yeah, man, he's just a creep. Don't mind all that "best novice" crap!» Kid added.
«I don't–»
«Sure, we believe in you!» Killer nodded, squeezing his shoulder.
A small frown etched into Heat's features when he turned to observe you all.
«It doesn't really feel like it, but thanks.»
You clicked your tongue, watching him reaching the ring.
«Do you really think he stands a chance?» Dellinger asked, moving beside you.
«No, boy, he's screwed.»
And he was indeed.
Heat had barely managed to lift his wand at Prof. Brook's start when the charm hit him right in the forehead, sending him flying beyond the ring's border.
«HEAT!»
Kid and Wire hurried by their comrade's side.
Law, on the other hand, looked almost bored. He slowly turned to the Slytherin corner, his gaze piercing each and every one of you.
You frowned, returning his glare.
I guess he wants payback for the Transfiguration bullying.
And you couldn't even blame him, honestly. However, you didn't fail to notice how his eyes stopped when they met Kid's, the redhead shooting daggers as well in his direction.
The people nearby shivered.
«You better hope you're not my next opponent, Trafalgar.» Kid hissed, helping Heat on his feet.
A smirk entered Law's features.
«I can't wait, Eustass-ya.»
Thankfully, Heat seemed to be alright when he came back to your ranks.
«Are you in one piece?» you asked, attempting a smile.
«Physically, yes. My pride is kinda shattered though.»
«Don't worry about it!» you shrugged «He would have kicked my ass too.»
Like all the other students that were eliminated, Heat waved at you and moved to the audience.
The matches continued, and you found yourself growing more and more nervous as your turn approached. Despite all your wacky experiences, you never dealt well with anxiety at first.
«Oi, Y/n.» a heavy hand dropping on your shoulder startled you.
«WHA– Kid!»
He huffed, removing his hand from you.
«You're as pale as a Banshee.»
You pouted, crossing your arms on your chest and turning to the rings.
«I'm a bit tense, that's all.»
«Yeah, I see that. Get it together, woman!»
You shot a side glare at him before returning your eyes to the matches.
Dellinger was quite impressive, defeating Tashigi. Katakuri pretty much planed Jean Bart, and Cavendish won his match against Haruta as well. Unfortunately, Wire lost quickly against Sabo, but Killer, Niji and Cracker all conquered their way to the second round.
The green hourglass was the one with the higher pile of beads when Prof. Donquixote finally called your name.
«Y/n and Shachi on ring three!»
You took a deep breath and grabbed your wand.
«Good luck, Y/n!» Killer breathed by your side.
«Don't you dare lose!» Kid echoed.
You frowned at him before marching to the ring.
Now that you were in the centre of the hall, the shouts from the crowd were even more deafening. Other duels were taking place around you, and you could hear all kind of cheers and insults being yelled from everywhere.
Shachi stepped on the ring and faced you with a resolute face.
«Now, get ready.» Corazon warned, raising his arm from the border «Three...»
Oh, shit, what do I do now? I should have spent less time worrying and more time coming up with a strategy!
«Two...»
You swallowed.
Charms that based on brute force were never your forte, and neither were the ones that required a lot of focus.
«One...»
Now, the usual way to fight in a magic duel was standing in front of your opponent and cross wands with the most powerful charms you were able to come up with, but...
Wait a second.
Of course!
I never do things according to the books anyway.
«START!»
Shachi was quicker than you thought in throwing a hex in your direction. More often than not, the quicker wizard was the winner.
But you had recently learned that non-fighting charms could be just as powerful.
The second Prof. Donquixote started the fight, you dropped on your knees, crouching on the floor and therefore dodging Shachi's hex.
The guy's eyes widened in surprise, but he was swift in readjusting his aim. Not swift enough though.
«Coniugo!» you yelled, pointing your want to his legs.
The green wire sprang towards him and around his limbs and you gave a curt tug, making him lose his balance.
«What the--!»
Shachi fell and you took your chance.
«Propello remotum!»
Just like that, the latches connected to your wand darted aside, throwing the poor Ravenclaw across the hall.
«Shachi is out of the ring! Y/n wins!» Corazon announced.
«YESS!» you shouted, jumping on your place.
«YOU RULE, Y/N!»
«GO, TROUBLEMAKER!»
Cheers rose from your mates and from the crowd, and you moved back to your corner improvising a little victory dance, that was for sure ridiculous, with the hip-swaying and the fingers-clicking, but you couldn't care less.
«And to think you were nervous about this!» Kid laughed, once you reached them.
«Well, I'm a slow starter.» you smirked up at him, hitting Killer's high five.
The redhead rolled his eyes playfully.
After you, Smoothie, Suleiman and Yonji collected new victories for Slytherin, but Sheepshead was literally annihilated by Luffy.
Once the eliminatory round was complete, principal Whitebeard stood and silence fell in the loud hall.
«Very well my hatchlings, you all performed very well! May the ones who lost today not despair, there will be other chances to shine. But to the ones who made it to the second round, CONGRATULATIONS!»
The audience echoed with enthusiastic cheers once again and even some professors ended up being not one hundred per cent impartial. You caught sight of Corazon subtly showing his thumbs up to Law, unable to restrain his grin, and Shanks was shamelessly shouting "You go, Luffy!".
«I also have to congratulate most of all with the snakes tonight: out of thirty contestants, thirteen belongs to Slytherin!»
The students in green exploded in yells of joy, jumping in their seats, and your group shouted as well, shaking close fists in the air.
«Gryffindor follows with eight contestants, then Ravenclaw with seven and Hufflepuff with two.» Whitebeard continued «Now, Madam Shirley.» he turned to the woman sitting at the professors' table «If you would be so kind to announce the matches for the next round.»
She nodded lightly and bent her head towards the glassy sphere in front of her.
A few seconds of silence followed, before she swayed her wand in the air, murmuring «Enuntio.»
Silver streams of smoke danced in the air, slowly forming the list of upcoming matches for everyone to see.
Gasps and claps followed every new revealed duel, while Marco stood to announce that, given their spectacular performance, Law and Katakuri were exonerated from this turn and skipped directly to the third round.
«Shit, I really wanted to fight that fucker.» Kid grumbled under his breath.
Many girly cheers filled the hall when it was revealed that Zoro was to face Killer soon.
«Don't worry.» you said, turning to the blonde «I think you can totally take him!»
«Thanks, Y/n,» Killer smiled, his hand resting on top of your head as he readjusted your focus in front of you «but maybe you should worry about yourself.»
You blinked in front of the smoky words that just appeared in the air.
Y/n D. L/n Vs. Scratchmen Apoo
«...shit.» you muttered, as your eyes glided to Ravenclaw's lines.
Apoo was sadistically grinning at you, passing his thumb across his throat when your gazes met.
«Looks like I won't make it to Halloween after all.»
Chapter 13: Duelling Club - round two
Chapter Text
The matches of the second round turned out to be much more exciting than the qualifiers.
Well, with some exceptions.
Kid was quick and maybe a little too brutal in disposing of Penguin, his fiery eyes glued to Trafalgar Law as he threw his friend on the other side of the hall, among the gasps of the Ravenclaws.
At the same time, Dellinger didn't manage to put up a real challenge against Sabo.
The duels were hosted three at a time now, to allow the audience to focus more on the single battles.
Bartolomeo and Cavendish were giving the hell of a show at the moment, with a series of bright hexes and dodges flying all over their ring and the crowd going crazy.
You hardly noticed anyway. You were too focused trying not to look at Ravenclaw's side, where you could feel Apoo's eyes fixed to your form.
«Oi.»
Someone flicked your forehead harsher than necessary and you winced, stepping back.
«What the hell!» you barked to Kid as he re-joined the team.
His lips curled down in a displeased frown.
«You're so busy pissing yourself you didn't even congratulate me for my overwhelming victory.»
«Oho, you kicked Penguin's ass. What a conquest.» you scoffed, turning your head back to the rings, where Luffy was currently facing Koby.
«Hey...!»
«Leave her alone, Kid.» Killer interjected, stepping beside the two of you «Scratchmen is an idiot, but he's fierce in battle. Y/n needs to think of a strategy to beat him.»
You pressed your lips together.
As if it was that easy! My mind is blank!
Kid huffed, crossing his arms over his chest.
«What's that Suleiman doing?!» Cracker blurted nearby, bumping his foot to the floor.
You frowned as your senior housemate was kicked out of the ring by Drake and Ravenclaw's beads added to their pile.
«Zoro and Killer on ring one!» Professor Bonekichi called.
Many girls shrilled.
«Okay.» Killer breathed, stretching his arms.
You snapped out of your trance to pat his shoulder.
«Kick his ass.»
He smiled down at you.
«I'll do my best.»
«Go, Killer!» Kid grinned, hands balling into fists.
Despite your anxiety, you couldn't help but stare at Killer and Zoro facing each other, their battle starting wildly as they both attacked with everything they got.
Woha, I would be wiped away in a second!
Their charms were pure power, and they both moved as quick as the wind, not even bothering to pronounce the words, just pitching rays of raw energy at each other. The crowd held their breath, and you gasped as well when their charms met mid-air, entangling together and tracing a shiny arc over the ring.
«Yohohoh, we have a lock!» Brook announced with his high voice «The first of the night! Which of these two young wizards will succeed now?»
All the Gryffindors and Slytherins started yelling, cheering Zoro or Killer up. The effort was evident on their faces as they tried to overcome the rival, but you noticed strained smirks curling their lips.
Looks like they're actually having fun with this.
However, you didn't have much time to analyse the fight, because when Cavendish finally managed to kick Bartolomeo out of the ring, Rocinante called your name.
«Apoo and Y/n on ring two, please.»
Your heart jumped in your throat and your entire body stiffened.
You glanced at Kid, right beside you, but he was far too adsorbed in yelling for Killer to even notice it was your turn.
After a deep breath, you started to walk towards the small arena, your eyes finally meeting your opponent's.
Apoo had a creepy smile plastered on his face, wand already in his hand.
«I can't tell you how much I waited for this moment, shitface.»
You frowned, preparing your wand as well.
Prof. Donquixote glared at Scratchmen and cleared his voice.
«I expect a honourable fight here. Now get in position.»
This time your mind was still blank when he gave the start, your only concern being the twirling of your guts in your belly.
Apoo, on the other hand, seemed to have many colourful ideas.
«Bombarda!» he roared, pointing the wand right at you.
You jumped aside just in time, the tatami underneath exploding near your leg.
WHAT THE HELL??
But you hadn't the time to catch your breath, because he hit you immediately after.
«Alarte Ascendare!»
You felt the floor missing under your feet and you burst up in the air.
Oh, fuck.
You probably yelled, but it was brief, because you quickly began to fall back.
Okayokayokay, repair now!
«Accio FREAKING PILLOW!» you shouted, pointing your wand right to the ground you were about to hit.
Thankfully, big pillows were disposed on the guests' benches, and one of them bolted beneath you among people's gasps and laughter.
The impact was not terrible, but it wasn't pleasant either, and you knew Apoo was just waiting for the right moment to attack again, so you didn't lose time in groans of pain and lifted your wand immediately.
«Murum!»
His hexes clashed against the invisible barrier you set between you two, and you finally managed to catch your breath, your hand grasping to your left arm, totally sore after the fall.
«Urgh...!»
«Don't give up, Y/n! You're still in the race!»
It was Perona's voice that reached you among many others. You were still too confused to realize where it came from, but it gave you a bit of courage.
«The fuck are you doing, you coward?! Aren't you snakes supposed to be proud? Come out and face me!» Apoo snarled, his hexes hitting your wall violently, the barrier starting to crumble against the power of his charms.
You knew you just gained a few moments with your move, but it was all you needed.
The pain and the rage had somehow cleared your mind up, and now you knew how you wanted to fight him.
He was trying to crush you with full power, a power your charms couldn't compare to. But you had your speciality too, a kind of magic you were always skilled for.
«Tentorium.» you whispered, wrapping a white, dense veil around yourself so he couldn't see you.
«What the hell!» he laughed «You trying to hide in a small ring like this? I know where you are, I'm just gonna crush everything! Bombarda!»
Your barrier finally ceded, but what he didn't see was that you had already threw your charm beyond the veil, and when the wall went down, it hit him right on his head.
«Confundo.»
And, just like that, Scratchmen Apoo squinted, a head bolting to his forehead. His next step was totally unbalanced and he stumbled, managing to stay on his feet at the last second. A frustrated growl left his throat as he started to realize what happened.
You knew the effect would last only a few seconds, but it was enough to hit him a second time, with a finishing charm now.
«Flipendo!»
You put all your strength and anger in it.
The jinx hit Apoo in the chest and he was sent flying backwards, tumbling out of the ring.
«Y/N WINS!» Rocinante announced with a smile, raising his arm.
You grinned as Slytherin cheers enveloped you, but a surge of pain climbed up your injured limb and your smirk quickly morphed into a grimace.
«Hey, are you okay there?» Prof. Donquixote asked, approaching you.
You pouted, slowly moving your arm to test it. Your muscles complained.
«Ugh, it could be better.»
He nodded.
«We have to continue here, but you should go to the infirmary and let doctor Kureha have a look at it.»
You pouted at the idea of dealing with the old witch, but you preferred that at a broken arm right before the Quidditch season.
«Sure, I'll go.»
He gave you a smile and turned back to the ring.
«Cracker and Ace on ring two, please!»
With one hand firmly on your arm, you started to walk away.
«Oi, shitface!»
Oh, c'mooon.
You rolled your eyes with an exasperated sigh and turned back to Apoo.
He was on his feet now, his livid face sending daggers at you, teeth gritted and fingers white in their grip to his uniform.
«What the fuck was that, huh?! Only a fucking coward would resort to those dirty tricks!»
You blinked, then a lovely smile entered your features as you shrugged amiably.
«Losers weepers~»
«I'M GONNA KILL YOU!!»
«Oh, come on, man!» Ace chimed, passing beside him to reach the ring «She kicked your ass! Get over it.»
When you reached your team, you were welcomed with compliments and grins.
Katakuri marched right in front of you and nodded.
«Good job, L/n.»
You swallowed.
«Hum, thanks.»
«That was brutal, woman!» Kid laughed, hitting your bicep. The injured one.
A pained squeak left your throat and you shuddered.
«Ouch! Shit!»
«Kid, watch yourself!» Killer groaned, appearing from behind you, his warm hands gently palming your shoulders «Hey, are you okay?»
Kid's face fell into a confused pout as he stared down at you, his arms falling back to his sides.
«Oh. I–»
«It's not that bad.» you grumbled, attempting a smirk «Doctor Kureha will fix me up in a second.»
«I'll come with you.» Killer said, guiding you away from the team.
You looked up at him.
«What? But what about your match?»
He shrugged.
«I lost.»
«Shit, I'm sorry.»
«It's okay. That Roronoa is a tough beast, but it was a fun battle. I'll challenge him again.»
«Or you could kick his ass during our Quidditch game.» you suggested, following him towards the exit.
«Y/N!»
Perona ran up to the two of you, her long pink hair waving behind her.
«Hey.» you smiled.
«That was the hell of a duel! You put that asshole back to his place!»
«Yeah, I got pretty lucky there.»
«That wasn't luck.» Killer mumbled.
«Are you okay?» Perona asked.
«I'm fine, I just have to get my arm checked.»
«I'll go with you.»
Kid watched the three of you leave with a pout settled on his face.
You were almost out of the noisy hall when a louder shout cut the air and the crowd hushed for a second.
«USOPP!»
The three of you turned.
It was hard to see beyond all the people from where you stood, but you distinguished Usopp's form lying on the floor, seemingly unconscious, while Luffy held his head up. His furious glare was digging holes in Weevil's direction.
The brute was still standing in the middle of the ring, a satisfied grin on his face.
Prof. Crocodile, who was arbitrating the duel, removed the cigar from his face and summoned a gurney.
«Bring your friend to the infirmary, immediately.»
Luffy grunted, the rest of his usual crew swiftly joining to lift Usopp up.
The raven's glare remained fixed on Weevil.
«I'm gonna kick your ass.» he promised, before turning to follow his friends toward the door.
They ran past you, and you moved aside to let them pass.
Usopp's nose was bleeding profusely, and his skin was much paler than usual.
«I hate that Weevil guy.» you muttered.
Perona grabbed your good arm.
«Let's go.»
Chapter 14: Infirmary hang-out
Chapter Text
«Well, if it isn't the little troublemaker.»
A quick grimace traversed your features when doctor Kureha smirked down at you, slightly tilting her head so her silver hair fell on her shoulder.
«I was starting to wonder when I would see you again. You're late this year.»
«Sorry for making you wait.» you grumbled sarcastically, a hand rubbing your sore arm.
Her brown eyes glided to your limb and she hinted at one of the cots behind her.
Despite being quite late at night, various people were in the infirmary. The Duelling Club could get harsh after all, especially during a tournament. Injured students were hanging out on their bed, some with friends assisting them.
Perona nudged you lightly and you sat on the cot, while Killer stood right beside you.
An enchanted parchment appeared mid-air in front of the doctor, and a floating feather scribbled down something on the bottom of an already long list.
«Here's your personal scroll.» Kureha grinned «I'll add this to your debts then.»
You groaned, pinching the bridge of your nose.
It was Kureha's style. She would treat everyone that came to the infirmary, in exchange of "debts". Nobody knew exactly how old she was, but generations of wizards and witches had passed through her cares, and she never changed. Once the students she treated became successful members of the magic society, Kureha would appear at some point in their life to collect the favours they owed her from their school years.
Given your assiduous presence in the infirmary, you were going to spend your adult life assisting her demands.
«Come on then, remove your vest.» she ordered, turning then to Killer «Are you planning on staying here and watch, young man?»
«N-No.» he quickly replied, a faint blush adorning his cheeks below the thick bangs.
He stepped back so Perona could pull the curtain around your bed.
You took off your uniform and remained in your underwear.
Doctor Kureha examined your arm, eliciting some flinches and gasps of pain.
«Your humerus is chipped.» she eventually said «Chopper!»
«Yes, doctorine!» a childish voice called from another bed beyond the curtain.
«When you're done with long-nose, prepare a Milky Potion for the little troublemaker, here.» she then turned to you «It will be mildly painful for a couple of hours, but you can go back to your dormitory after you drink it.»
«Thank you, doctor.» you muttered, placing your vest back on.
«Oh, don't thank me yet.» she smirked, a dangerous glimmer in her eyes «You're going to pay me back for each one of these favours. And I have high hopes for you, kid.»
You grimaced while she left your bed with a laugh.
«Is everything okay?» Killer asked, walking over.
«Yeah, just a chipped bone. I'll be brand new in a couple of hours, apparently.» you smiled, lightly patting your arm.
«That old hag.» Perona huffed, plopping on the bed next to you.
You looked towards one of the cots in the corner, where the bigger group in the room was. The humanoid reindeer was busy treating the patient.
Chopper was a cute, peculiar creature that was studying healing arts under doctor Kureha. Voices had it he was some sort of failed experiment of his previous master or a hybrid born from a beastly union, but nobody knew for sure.
«Oi!» you called at the Gryffindor group «How is he doing?»
It was Nami that turned to you, revealing Usopp lying on the bed for a moment. He was still unconscious and now wrapped in bandages.
«Oh, Y/n.» she blinked «Doctor Kureha says he's going to be fine, he just suffered a contusion and a burn, but he'll have to spend the night.»
You nodded.
«I'll kick his ass!» Luffy declared again, his usually cheerful face deformed in a snarl.
Nami swiftly swatted his nape.
«No yelling in the infirmary!»
«Hey, Killer.»
Zoro left his mates' side to approach your bed, a satisfied smirk adorning his lips.
«I didn't have the chance to say it before, but it was a good match.»
Killer turned to him, his expression now serious, although his eyes were still concealed by his bangs.
«I agree.» he said «I'd like to challenge you again some time.»
«I can't wait.» Zoro replied, stretching his hand.
Killer grabbed it.
You felt everyone's eyes following the scene: two major players of rival Houses shaking hands in the middle of the infirmary, where they were assisting their friends.
A surge of proudness warmed your guts.
«You should be prefect of our year.» you murmured, when Killer came back.
He (probably) quirked an eyebrow.
«What? Why?»
«Because you're strong and dependable. You give a better example than I ever could.»
Perona nodded.
«That's for sure.»
Okay, now, you don't have to agree so strongly.
Killer chuckled, his hand rising to ruffle your hair.
«A bit oblivious as always, aren't we?»
You frowned, slightly confused, but a soft cough diverted your attention.
«Hi Y/n.» Chopper smiled «Sorry for making you wait. I'll prepare your potion right away.»
You couldn't help but smile back at the cute thing.
«Thank you, doctor.»
«Don't call me doctor!~» he scoffed, a deep blush spreading to his nose «Don't think your flattering will have any effect on me, because it doesn't!» and with that, he was off to the pharmacy.
A few minutes later, Sanji rushed into the infirmary, his Gryffindor vest open on his sweater and his tie hanging from his neck.
«How is he?» he immediately asked, running to Usopp's bed.
«Sanji!» Luffy called.
«He'll be fine.» Nami replied «How was your duel?»
Sanji sighed in relief before grinning at her.
«I won!»
You curled your lips from your corner, turning to Perona.
«Wasn't he up against Yonji?»
«Yes, I guess we lost a match there.»
«Oi, eyebrow.» Zoro grumbled to his mate «Is the tournament still on?»
Sanji grimaced at him, taking a seat beside the cot.
«The last batch. Bonney is having a hard time against Smoothie, apparently.»
It wasn't long before numerous students walked into the infirmary, each one going to check on their friends.
That was your cue the first day of tournament was finished.
You saw Reiju walking in and waved at her.
For a second it seemed like she was coming your way, but a tall guy in Ravenclaw colours placed a hand on her shoulder and murmured something.
You frowned, recognizing Drake.
Reiju hesitated, then offered you a small nod and headed to Penguin's bed instead.
Drake stood where he was and his cold eyes met yours. He stared at you for a few seconds before joining his Housemates.
«Okay, that was weird.» Perona said.
«What the hell?» you hissed, fingers clenching around the duvet «What's Diez problem?»
«Well, you did just defeat a Ravenclaw to pass the round.» Killer reasoned, his arms crossed on his chest «It wouldn't be too wise of Vinsmoke to come and greet you before checking on her own mates. He's their prefect, he's probably just looking out for her.»
You pressed your lips together.
«I guess.»
«Wow, you're smart, Killer.» Perona observed. Her gaze slid back on your form then, and you could basically hear her voice in your head repeating "you should tell him about Trafalgar".
However, all your thoughts disappeared the moment you caught sight of a familiar shock of red hair entering the infirmary.
«Kid!» you called, raising your good arm.
His amber eyes turned your way and he walked over, surprisingly followed by none other than Katakuri.
Perona stood while you lowered your arm.
«What is he doing here?»
Nobody had the chance to answer before the two Slytherins reached your bed.
Kid eyed Katakuri suspiciously, but he let him talk first.
The Charlotte towered over you, making you feel slightly uncomfortable, as always.
«How are you, L/n?»
«Hum... nothing serious, I'm going to be fine.»
He nodded.
«Good. Principal Edward said the third round will be held next Friday night, same time, same location. The matches will be announced then.» with a brief hint to the others, he prepared to leave «Congratulations on your victory. Oh and you don't have to worry about Scratchmen anymore. I personally asked him to leave you alone.»
You blinked.
«Er, thanks.» you muttered, watching him walk away.
When he was far enough, Perona sighed.
«Aw, such a perfect Head Boy!»
«He probably wanted to check on you, since you're the only Slytherin in the infirmary.» Killer added.
That comment stung your pride a bit, and you puckered your lips.
«Whatever.»
«Bah! He didn't need to threaten that creep.» Kid scoffed «We're perfectly able to kick his ass again, if needed!»
Okay, when did this become everyone's problem?
Chopper finally came back with your potion, and you gulped it down as quickly as you could.
«So! Are we still on the lead?» Perona excitedly asked, turning to Kid.
The redhead tilted his head.
«Yeah, but Gryffindor is close behind now.»
The four of you headed to the exit.
«Who passed?»
Kid was about to answer, but his eyes met Trafalgar's as the Ravenclaw walked in.
The two of them exchanged an icy glare, and Kid made sure to bump hard into him on his way to the door.
Oddly enough, Trafalgar didn't dodge. You were not sure he thought he was strong enough to stand against Kid, but he was proven wrong, stumbling and managing to stay on his feet only at the last moment.
You felt the burning eyes of the many Ravenclaws moving to your backs.
Kid flaunted his wicked grin at Law.
«Sorry, I didn't see ya there, creep.»
«Let's go.» you hissed, grabbing the redhead's arm and dragging him out of the infirmary.
Here goes all Killer's maturity, right in the trash.
Once outside, Kid led you down the dark corridors, resuming the topic as if nothing happened.
«Who else passed after you?»
He mumbled, trying to recall.
«Yonji got his ass beaten, but his fucking brothers won. Oh, and the Charlotte chick too. Cracker lost though, so much for his shitty big talk.»
«So who are we up against?»
Kid shrugged. You knew it was too much to expect for him to pay attention to all the details, but you felt the need to know whom you could end up facing.
«Here, guys!» Perona ran over after lingering on the entrance of the infirmary «I got the complete list from the Gryffindor Vinsmoke!» she snickered, adjusting a lock of her hair «It was easy.»
Killer took the piece of paper from her hand, his eyes scanning through the names.
«We're on the lead with seven people: you two, Katakuri, Smoothie, Ichiji, Niji and Cavendish. Next is Gryffindor with Luffy, Zoro, Ace, Sanji and Sabo.»
You grimaced as Killer continued.
«Only Weevil passed for Hufflepuff, while Ravenclaw has Trafalgar, Hawkins and Drake.»
So Reiju lost her match.
«Oh, god.» you groaned, covering your face with your hand «I don't wanna face any of them! They're all monsters!»
«C'mon, Y/n!» Kid laughed «I can't wait to fuck them up! Especially that Trafalgar... I hope he's my next rival.»
«You know, it's an individual competition.» Killer quietly said «You could be up against each other.»
You and Kid exchanged a side-glance before falling silent.
He's a monster too!!
Chapter 15: Have a nice weekend!
Chapter Text
Your broomstick rolled in a dangerous flip as you clung to it for dear life. Again.
The grimace on your face quickly turned into a snarl once the bludger swung past you, missing your head by barely a foot.
«WHAT THE HELL, KID?!» you shouted, spotting the redhead and his bat far below you, in the pitch.
You couldn't really see his face from that distance, but he didn't seem happy either.
«WHAT?!» he yelled back, yanking at his broomstick to fly towards you.
Kid had always been an excellent flyer, but boy, everybody was surprised by how he hadn't broken his broom yet. Well, it was reinforced with pieces of metal here and there, to be honest.
«Stop using me as a moving target!» you barked, changing your trajectory to make your way around the field «I'm trying to catch the freaking snitch here!»
He backflipped half-way towards you, his gruff expression suddenly replaced by his smirk.
«Watch your back, sprite.»
You were about to shout again when you heard the whistle of the bludger hurtling at you from behind, and you frantically improvised a weird manoeuvre to dodge it.
«Not good enough.»
Kid took the chance to strike the bludger with his bat and send it right back at you.
Since the distance was so small and you were still recovering from your last flip, this time the ball hit the back of your broomstick, making you swing so violently you had to wrap your arms around the stick not to fall.
«FUCK!»
It took a few seconds to find your balance again, and your head was spinning furiously when you turned to Kid, now much closer.
«WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT?!»
He gave you an annoyed snort.
«What? It's your job to avoid the bludger.»
«It's your job to keep them away from me!!»
«Maybe during the match, but this is training.» he pointed his bat at you «You were the one saying Gryffindor is going to target the seeker.»
«Yeah, so you could counter it, not so you could make me feel like a goose during hunting season!»
«Well, you'd be cooking for dinner by now!»
Much below, on the humid grass, Killer sighed and lowered the can from his lips.
«Should we tell them that our time is up?»
«I'm sure those Ravenclaw bitches will do it for us.» Yonji scoffed, hinting at the blue and bronze team entering the ring.
It hadn't been the best training. The whole Slytherin group was covered in mud, scowls evident on their faces as they growled at each other for the stupidest thing.
The Ravenclaws marched out of the changing rooms with the broomsticks on their shoulders, sending subtle glares at the rivals.
«Charlotte.» Drake called, getting ahead of his team «I am pretty sure we booked the pitch from four pm.»
Katakuri eyes moved to the other captain, his stern expression not wavering of an inch.
«Of course. We were just clearing out.»
«Yeah, tell those two up there.» Niji sniggered, pointing at the sky.
Katakuri turned to Killer.
«Get your friends here, please.»
The blonde sighed and straddled his broomstick once again, quickly flying over to you and Kid.
The two of you were still bickering even when he dragged you down, the frustration even more evident on your faces once you landed.
«I gather it wasn't a good Quidditch day, uh?» Apoo grinned from the Ravenclaw ranks.
«SHUT THE FUCK UP, SCRATCHMEN!» Kid barked, turning to him like a fury.
Apoo opened his mouth to retort, but his eyes quickly flicked toward Katakuri and he decided to fall shut instead.
Woha, whatever conversation they had, it worked.
«Kid.» Killer said, placing a firm hand on his arm.
«Leave them be, Apoo.»
Your focus immediately moved on Trafalgar Law, standing slightly away from the rest of his team, looking as smug as ever. His golden eyes met yours and he smirked.
«Bad day or not, their seeker is not a problem anyway.»
His words had an immediate effect on you, your blood boiling in your vessels.
«What the hell did you just say, Trafalgar?!»
«Okay, time for us to go.» Killer coughed, grabbing you with his free hand and tugging you and Kid towards the changing room with the rest of the team.
You could just growl at Law's amused face before you took a glimpse of Reiju's unhappy features among her hausemates.
Your lips pressed together as you realised how your continuous little outbursts against Ravenclaw weren't making the situation easy for her.
You turned with a grunt, following the rest of your mates in the lodges.
«I understand you're all tired from yesterday's duels,» Katakuri lectured once he had you all lined up on the bench, everyone scoffing in their own unique way «but if we play our match like we did today, we can forget about the cup. We'll actually end up last.»
You stared at the floor, a tense pout curling your mouth.
Not only you had spent the training trying to dodge Kid's crazy bludgers (and not very well), but you didn't even caught glimpse of the snitch once that afternoon.
Katakuri sighed, shaking his head in front of the general silence.
«We'll meet again here on Tuesday afternoon. Meanwhile, get yourselves together.»
You let out a long breath and grabbed your bag, heading to the girls' showers.
The hot water felt good on your sore muscles, and especially on your arm. Even if it was completely healed by that morning, it still felt a little stiff.
After washing the mud away from your skin and hair, you wrapped yourself in a towel and walked to the big mirror over the sinks.
Being the only woman on the team meant you had that side of the lodge reserved for you. The wall dividing it from the male part was thin though, and you could hear the mess of the guys on the other side, all yelling at each others. Well, except for Katakuri, of course.
«What a triumph of testosterone it must be, in there.» you murmured to yourself, extracting the wand from your bag and pointing it to your hair.
«Detergeo.»
They dried immediately and you got dressed, not bothering to wait for the others as you walked out in the cold afternoon.
You were usually the last to finish, but that day you didn't feel like arguing with Kid again or explaining to Killer why you were been so childish.
«L/n.»
You hissed a rapid "shit" between your teeth when Katakuri's voice stopped you. Then you turned around and looked up at him, a guilty light already lingering in your gaze.
He stood in front of you in all his height, and you could swear one of his ancestors must have been a giant, his massive arms crossed over his chest and his severe eyes on you.
«Is there something bothering you?»
You frowned, surprised.
«Something bothering me?»
«Yes. About Ravenclaw, maybe.»
"Whoever of you is responsible for this, I will unmask them. And this time won't me like the past. This time I will make sure it ends here."
"Beware your housemates."
You studied him for a few seconds, your stomach churning unpleasantly.
«Scratchmen Apoo bothered me. But you took care of it, apparently.»
Katakuri nodded.
«If it's just that, good. You obviously have a lot going on. I shouldn't have asked you to keep this team together. But I need you focused.»
«I... will do my best.» you muttered, vaguely confused.
«I know you like to handle your own problems, and I respect that.» he added «I just want you to know you can come to me if someone is harassing you or some other issue comes up. Okay?»
You frowned again, now totally confused by his words.
Does he know about Trafalgar...?
Well, I could tell him. I could tell him right now and let him deal with whatever Law is investigating about. Because sure enough he's up to something...
«L/n?»
«Oh? N-No, sorry, I was just thinking if there is anything.» you smiled at him «But nope, everything is fine! I'm just anxious about the next round of the Duelling Tournament.»
His eyes sharpened for a moment, then he shrugged.
«I see. Well, enjoy the rest of the weekend then.»
«Thank you, you too!» you chimed back, hurrying down the hill and toward the castle.
Perona let herself fall on the bed, making your mattress bounce and drawing an irritated groan from your part.
«Hi, don't you look miserable.»
Her greeting was received with incoherent grumbles and your attempt of diving deeper under the blanket.
«Oh, come ooon. It can't be that bad.»
«Well, it was!» you cried, shoving the blanket aside to shoot a burning glare at her «After spending the night in the infirmary for a tournament that, let me remind you, I wasn't supposed to join, I overslept and skipped breakfast and lunch only to play the moving target for bludgers and being covered in cold and mud! Then Katakuri gave me a weird speech on how I need to be focused or something.»
You buried your face in the pillow.
«All I want now is to sleep until Monday morning.»
«Wow.» she observed, blowing on her freshly-done nails «From hero to zero.»
«When the hell have I been the hero?!»
«Yesterday night, when you defeated two Ravenclaws. That was pretty cool.»
«Yeah.» you grumbled «I'm pretty sure their whole House hates me by now.»
She shrugged.
«Maybe a little.»
You groaned and pulled the sheets above your head.
«Stop that!» Perona grunted, tearing them off «You slept enough. Now get ready for dinner and the party afterwards.»
«What party?» you whined, running a hand through your hair.
«The D. brothers party! Oh, I swear, you are the only person in Hogwarts who doesn't know about it.»
«Doesn't matter, I'm not going.»
«Of course you're going!» she growled, clawing at your sleeve to pull you out of bed «You have to be there, I'm being paid a good amount of butterbeers to get you there!»
«You what?»
You finally turned to her, your frown meeting her round eyes as she finally let go of you to play with a long pink lock.
«Yeah, well, it happened at lunch.» she mumbled «Portgas and Monkey started to invite everyone to this party in the South Tower. You know, they have many friends in Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw, so... given the situation the Houses are right now, they are the only one who could pull that off.»
You raised an eyebrow.
«And?»
«And people from Slytherin started saying that they would not join such a losers' party, blah blah blah. You know, the usual.»
«And?»
«And at that point Sabo approached a few of us and casually mentioned that it didn't matter what they were saying, since you were going to be there.»
Your eyes widened.
«What?! I've never said anything like that, I didn't even know--»
«That's why he's paying me! To get you there!»
«But... but... but why me?!»
«Because! The moment people heard you were going, they started reconsidering as well!» she uttered «And now many of us actually agreed to go!»
You kept staring at her with wide eyes.
«But... why me?!»
She scoffed and threw your vest over your head.
«Oh, stop stuttering and get you ass ready!»
Chapter 16: Misplaced charisma
Chapter Text
All your muscles were screaming in protest as Perona dragged you down for dinner.
You were on time, for once, and you got swallowed by the crowd of students making their way in the Great Hall.
«Listen, P, what if I show up just briefly and then go to sleep? I'm really not in the mood for partying tonight...»
The pinkette sighed but she hadn't the chance to answer before a loud group of Gryffindors pushed their way into the Hall.
«Oi, Y/n!»
A strong arm suddenly wrapped itself around your shoulders, pulling you gently but firmly against a warm side.
You gasped in surprise, swiftly turning to the tall male that now had you in his clench, and an irritated smirk tugged at your lips.
«Oh, look who's here, the cause of all my troubles.»
Sabo chuckled, a wide grin spreading on his face.
«Well, I wouldn't say all of them, little troublemaker.»
«You're right, tonight's troubles then. What's this news that I'm joining your party?»
The blond slowed his stride, letting the wave of students enter the Hall while keeping you behind.
Perona's eyes darted from him to you and you nodded to her.
«Go, I'll settle things with this guy and meet you inside.»
She frowned for a second, but her gaze shifted to a group of Slytherins, already eyeing their mate and a Gryffindor so tightly joint together in plain sight, and she decided to do as you said.
Sabo didn't seem to mind all the glares, his smile never wavering as he finally replied.
«I just thought it would be good if you come, you know. Luffy has many friends in Hufflepuff, while Ace and I have some in Ravenclaw. Wouldn't it be sad if Slytherin were the only House left out?»
You frowned.
«Thank you for taking our feelings into account, but I'm sorry to inform you... I'm not really sure any of us care.»
However, your retort only caused him to laugh and ruffle your hair, his arm still tightly wrapped around you.
«Such a true Slytherin! Your friends would be proud.»
You grumbled and rolled your eyes in exasperation.
«Saboooo! What the hell do you want from me?»
«I'm sick about the situation between the Houses.» he finally admitted, a serious note entering his usually cheerful voice «You know we organise a few parties every year, don't you? But when the Tournament starts, there is no way we'll have the chance to have fun all together.»
You fell silent.
He was right, no doubt. Once the champions were selected for a possibly lethal competition, it was going to be war.
You always used to enjoy those parties anyway, so could you really blame Sabo for wanting a last one?
«I get it.» you sighed «What does it have to do with me though?»
«It's because you don't care.»
You fixed your confused eyes on his.
«What?»
«You're loyal to your House, but you spend time with whomever you want to, regardless of theirs.»
«And...?»
«Y/n, after all the crazy stuff you pulled off over the years, you hold a certain charisma in this school, even if you're totally unaware of it. Why do you think everyone bothers you about your behaviour? Why do you think they made you prefect?»
He let you go in the now empty entrance, facing you with his signature smirk.
«Slytherin students agreed to come after I said you'd be there. You just have to show up. Let's have one last big party together before hell breaks loose, okay?»
You stared at him for a few seconds before finally raising your arms in surrender.
«Fine. I'll be there. But don't get salty if all I do is charismatically falling asleep on a couch!»
Sabo smirked.
«As long as you do it charismatically.»
Dinner had already started when you walked into the Great Hall and over to Slytherin's table, your eyes scanning for a free spot.
«Y/n?»
You turned to see Heat pulling away from his plate to call for your attention, still chewing his last bite. All the seats around were taken, so you were walking past the group. Kid was beside him, currently attacking his meal with more rage than usual. He didn't even raise his gaze on you, contrary to Killer, who offered a slight greet with his head.
Heat swallowed his food and continued.
«Is everything okay? We saw Monkey keeping you back.»
You shrugged and patted his shoulder.
«I'm fine, he just wanted to make sure we're going to the party tonight.»
Kid snorted, the scowl deepening on his face.
You quirked an eyebrow.
«What's his problem? A bludger hit his hard head?»
Yeah, you may have been still a bit sour from your last training.
«NOTHING HIT MY HEAD!» Kid snapped, startling the people around and pointing his fork at you.
You snickered, backing up towards the girls' side.
«Whatever, Kiddo, see you at the party.»
Saturday's dinners at Hogwarts were usually lazy for you, but that night you followed Perona and Mikita in the dorm rather early, in order to get ready for the party.
You chose a cream-coloured skirt with matching high boots and a maroon sweater, and Perona applied a light make-up on your eyes and lips.
«Oh, wow. You should always walk around like this, Y/n.» Mikita commented, observing you in the mirror as she worked on her own make-up.
You offered a mere hum in reply.
The tiredness from the day was beginning to feel heavy on your body, and all you really wanted was to lie down.
By the time you all reached Slytherin common hall, many people were leaving for the party. In fact, it looked like the entire House was getting ready for it, so you were positive they wouldn't even notice whether you were actually there or not.
«You girls go on.» you murmured, spotting Momonosuke nestled in an armchair with a book «I'll be right back.»
You left the flow to go sit on the armrest beside the child.
«Hey there, Momo.»
He raised his face and smiled when he saw you.
«Y/n-senpai! Where were you all day? I wanted to say how cool you were yesterday at the tournament!»
«Hum, thanks? Sorry, I slept through the morning and then I rushed to training.»
His eyes sparkled.
«The way you kicked that Ravenclaw's butt! I didn't know you were so strong in Duelling!»
«I just got lucky. Listed, Momo, do you have any plans for tonight, or...?»
«I know you're all going to the party, but Saldeath-senpai said we can't go, it's for seniors only.»
You nodded.
Normally, only the students from the fifth year on partook in that kind of nights, and it was better that way.
«I figured. Well, I promised I'd show up, but I can be right back and then we could hang out.» you proposed.
You were still worried about him, after all.
However, Momonosuke shook his head with a careless smile.
«Thank you, but there's no need. Katakuri-dono said he'll show me some of Hogwarts' secrets tonight!»
He had an enthusiastic expression on his face.
Your eyes widened in surprise.
«Katakuri said that?»
«I did.»
The deep voice startled you and your gaze jerked up to meet the older male's deep eyes.
You stood up immediately, but he still towered over you.
«It's my duty as Head Boy to take care of the younger students. I promised them a night tour.» his irises briefly shifted to Momonosuke before returning to you and he lowered his voice «Nothing dangerous, obviously. I'll make sure they all are in bed at a reasonable hour.»
«You're not coming to the party then...?»
«No. It's not a problem, though, since Smoothie, Cavendish and you will be there.»
«Me?»
Katakuri frowned lightly.
«You are a prefect as well, aren't you? I entrust things to you.»
«I... I was just hoping to just show up and...»
Your voice faded away in front of his stern gaze.
A deep sigh left your mouth.
«Sure.» you muttered.
Chapter 17: Party hard in the dungeons pt.1
Chapter Text
«You don't actually think Slytherin will fall so low, Portgas.» Cracker snickered, crossing his arms over his chest «Dancing to Muggle music? Who do you think we are?»
«Oh, come on, man!» Ace grinned from the huge portion of the dungeons cleared up to serve as dance floor «Let your people have some fun!»
«"Your" people?» Perona scoffed, raising her chin from her glass «We do not take orders from him, we do whatever we want!»
«And yet you're all gathered there like a flock.»
«Excuse me?!» Blue Gilly barked, starting a new banter.
It was true though.
Most of the people did show up at the party, but it looked like each House had taken over one side of the underground hall and they didn't really seem eager to mingle.
It was the kind of situation Luffy would have resolved easily, but the teen was currently too busy setting up decorations and food posts with the help of his gang, which meant that he was basically stealing a huge quantity of snacks and they were trying to restrain him.
«Sabo, pump the beat!» Ace called.
The blonde winked back and used his wand to operate the improvised DJ station. The music increased its rhythm.
Killer slid through his mates, who were still throwing insults back and forth with the Gryffindors, and reached his best friend at the closest table.
«Hey. Still gloomy?»
«I'm not gloomy!» Kid barked, refilling his glass with some weird cocktail.
«Yes you are! You've been in a bad mood since training.»
«Maybe it's because training sucked!»
«Or maybe it's because a certain troublemaker isn't giving you her full attention lately.»
«What?!» Kid snapped, slamming his glass on the table and pouring the concoction around.
«C'mon, why don't you just admit it!» Killer hissed, stepping closer to keep the conversation private «You could use this party as an excuse to–»
«Hey, Eustass.»
The two wizards stopped and turned to the girl who reached the table with a confident smirk on her painted lips. Her generous cleavage was exposed by her tight dress, and she was undoubtedly fluttering her eyelashes to the redhead.
Kid raised his non-existent eyebrows at their housemate.
«Carina. What do you want?»
«Oh, I would like a bit of fresh air, but this dungeons are so scary... I don't want to go alone~»
«Why don't you ask your friends to go with you then?» Kid grunted, twitching his mouth in annoyance.
«Because, well, I was hoping to enjoy one of these.»
She leaned forward and showed a couple of white cigarettes tucked into her belt with a conspiratorial smile.
«I, huh, borrowed the weed from the Herbology lab. We Muggleborn use it for fun, but I'm sure you know, you grew up among us after all.»
The guys' gaze fell on the joints and a small smirk tugged at Kid's lips.
«What the hell, why not?»
Carina chimed happily and turned to the gallery leading to the stairs.
«Kid, wait!» Killer grabbed the redhead's arm before he could follow her outside «Are you sure about this? Don't you want–»
«Cut it out, Killer!» Kid snapped, snatching his arm free.
Then a grimace curled his features and he glanced at the big entrance before looking back at his best friend.
«She's not even here.»
«She said she'd come. Honestly I'm even a bit concerned, she could end up in some kind of trouble, as always.»
«Yeah, or she could be sleeping. Either case, I don't care.» Kid scoffed, but he stopped one last time before following Carina out of the dungeons.
Kid pressed his lips together and talked fast, eyes on the floor.
«Y/n knew we'd be here, didn't she? But she's who-knows-where living her great adventures. Time we get our owns.»
Killer sighed, watching him walk through the lines of students just as Smoothie proudly declared that no Slytherin was going to set foot on the dance floor.
Just about a minute after Kid disappeared through the grey arch, the blonde blinked at your small figure finally emerging from the darkness.
«Perfect timing.» he grumbled to himself.
Your eyes met and he gave you a wave.
You easily spotted the Slytherin side. Most of your mates seemed too busy yelling at the Gryffindors, and Ace was dancing alone like an idiot in the middle of the dungeon for some reason, but at least Killer noticed you and you gratefully shuffled over.
He frowned when you reached him, eyeing the spider web stuck in your hair and the dust covering your clothes.
«Oi, Y/n. Didn't you cross Kid on your way here?»
«Kid? Hm, no, I'm pretty sure I came from the wrong side. We weren't supposed to take the East gallery, were we?»
He stretched his fingers to peel the web away from your locks and have a better look at it.
«No, we were not. Y/n, the East gallery is on the opposite side of the dungeons, literally across the castle.»
«Yeah...» you wiped off some dust from your sweater «The dungeons are some scary shit, ya know? I heard voices through the walls that wanted to kill me, and you remember the legend of Catarina Devon, the spectre that haunts beautiful girls? Well, it's not a legend.»
His blue eyes widened below his bangs.
«You met Catarina Devon?!»
«Yeah, she chased me for half of the castle with a scythe. And you know what she had the guts to say when she reached me? She said that I was not that beautiful after all, and then she left me alone!» you scoffed «Unbelievable!»
«Y/n! Finally!»
You turned to see Perona stomping over.
«Where the hell have you been? Ew! Why do you look so dirty?!»
«TROUBLEMAKER!»
Ace's loud voice startled both of you and you looked to the dance floor.
The raven's cheeks were flushed and his wide grin showed a shade of intoxication, but he didn't seem to care in the slightest as he flail his arms towards you.
Sabo changed the song in something you recognised from your childhood days in a Muggle school.
«Come dance, Troublemaker!» Ace yelled again, never stopping his moves «Whoever doesn't dance is a loser!! Are you a loser, Y/n?»
«HELL NO!» you blurted, tossing your dirty sweater to Perona and running to join the Gryffindor on the dance floor.
Perona tried to grasp your arm, but was thrown off by the sweater in her face.
«Wait, Y/n, we're not supposed to...!»
Killer placed a hand on her shoulder.
«Why are you even trying?»
She let out a tired sigh, her round eyes watching you start a silly dance with Portgas.
«I have no idea.»
Wandering through Hogwarts' dungeons and being chased by spectres gave you an adrenalin rush that countered your soreness, and dancing it out sounded like a good idea.
You barely noticed your Housemates' wide eyes when you left their ranks and joined Ace, and you didn't put much thought into it.
«Yeah, troublemaker, show me your moves!» Ace uttered, raising his index finger to the ceiling and moving his hips like an amateur John Travolta.
«They're sure better than yours, Portgas!» you retorted, spinning and clicking your fingers around.
Colourful lights started to flash around the cave, and you spotted the source on Ravenclaw corner: oddly enough, it was coming from Trafalgar's wand, but he looked to be begrudgingly forced to do so, judging by the enthusiastic Luffy hanging from the sleeve of his uniform.
«Oh yeah! We got a Gryffindor and a Slytherin leading the party now. No wonder those are the Houses that usually win the cup. Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff, where are you at?! Are you gonna take it?!»
Sabo's voice came distorted and amplified from the DJ station.
That guy surely knows how to stir some spirits.
«Yeah, come challenge me if you dare!» Ace shouted over the music.
«Oho, we have a Hufflepuff joining the dances!» Sabo's voice echoed again.
It was getting dark since the main lights were switched off and crazy glowing colours were swinging all around the hall, but you managed to distinguish the third figure on the dance floor.
«Kobyyyy!» Ace shouted in delight.
The pinkette looked a little embarrassed and his movements were stiff, but he didn't back down.
«For Hufflepuff!» he cried out.
You burst in laughter while Ace uttered another "yeah!!".
«Come on, Ravenclaw, will you be the only one left out?» Sabo called.
You closed your eyes and followed the music as crazily as possible, occasionally bumping into Ace or Koby.
«Woooh, what a twist! Ravenclaw joins in with TWO wizards now! Way to take the lead back!»
You squinted in the darkness to recognise the new faces and were surprised to see Penguin and Shachi sporting some legit moves.
«Yeah guys!»
Your gaze crossed Shachi's for a second and you blinked.
You hadn't seen the guy since the Duelling Club.
«OI!» you called over the music «No hard feelings?»
He looked at you, then a grin spread to his face and he nodded.
«No hard feelings!»
You smiled and offered your fist for him to bump.
Penguin seemed to approve, because his grin mirrored his friend's.
«EVERYBODY ON THE DANCE FLOOOOOR!!»
Luffy's sudden yell echoed super loud throughout the cave, and a second after a wave of cheering Gryffindors swallowed you all.
More and more students from other Houses began to join the dance as well.
You spotted Hermeppo hesitantly reaching Koby before other guys and girls from their House followed. Sai was a blushing mess while dancing with a Hufflepuff girl (her name was maybe Baby 5?). As for Ravenclaw, the women took the initiative, with Laki and Nojiko dragging their pals in the mess.
«Y/n!»
Someone grabbed your wrist and made you do a pirouette before you bumped into a solid chest.
You frowned and looked up.
«Sabo? Who's deejaying then?»
You glanced at the station to see Apoo playing the discs with his bare hands rather than his wand.
«I gave him his spot back.» Sabo smirked, leading the dance «He promised not to interpose the music with insults to you.»
You chuckled.
«That's very nice of him.»
«I agree. I'm glad you showed up.»
«Yeah, yeah. What do you want this time?»
«You think I wouldn't dance with you without an agenda? I'm hurt.»
He made you do another turn before placing his hands on your waist.
You giggled.
This was unexpectedly fun, but you still raised your eyebrow at him.
«Fine.» without losing his smile, he hinted towards Slytherin's side «Your mates are the only ones still on the defence.»
You followed his gaze and were met with a lot of cold glares.
Uh-oh.
«And what does it have to do with me?»
Sabo shrugged.
«I know you care too, otherwise you wouldn't be here.»
«You literally bribed my best friend to drag me at this party.»
«And yet you came separately.»
You looked up to flash your crooked smirk at him.
«Are you stalking me, Monkey D. Sabo?»
His smirk was just as cheeky.
«You wish. Now excuse me, before your redheaded bodyguard tries to kill me in our next match.»
Now that he mentions it, where the hell is Kid?
Sabo waltzed you around one last time before letting go and taking his leave with a gallant bow.
You shook your head before someone else bumped into you.
«Yo, troublemaker!» Bartolomeo grinned without stopping his weird dance «How are you the only cool Slytherin-dabe?»
You scoffed as your body started to follow the rhythm again.
«Watch it, Gryffindor.»
You pulled your wand out and pointed it at your throat.
«Sonorus.»
Your eyes searched for your housemates, still packed in the same area. Smoothie and some other Charlottes glared at you, but you focused on your friends.
Killer, Heat and Wire were drinking in a corner, while the girls were all in one group following the events.
«Hey guys!» your voice echoed towards them, gathering their attention.
You smiled and motioned for them to join.
«Stop being such party poopers! You made me come, now take responsibility!»
Some Gryffindors around you laughed at the scene and you pointed at them.
«Are you guys going to leave me here at these fools' mercy?! I'm your freaking prefect, come and rescue me!»
Your eyes locked with Perona's. She pouted and sneakily hinted at Smoothie, who stood in front of the Slytherin rows. When you looked over to her, her gaze sharpened.
What the hell is her problem now?
Bartolomeo snickered.
«See? Told ya. Only cool Sly–»
«Back off, cannibal.»
A familiar figure slid behind you, moving in synch with the music.
Your lips relaxed in a grateful smile as you lowered the wand.
«Killer!»
«Hi Y/n.»
Heat and Wire joined immediately and they were all more of natural dancers than you recalled.
Bartolomeo snorted, not at all intimidated.
«So now you snakes arrive!»
«Yes, now. Do you have a problem with that, cannibal?»
It was Perona's voice that surprised him as she stepped in the scrum dragging Mikita and Ginrummy by their hands.
«Finally!» you uttered.
«Well, our prefect asked us to join.» Killer said, moving beside you.
Perona shook her head.
«I swear, Y/n, you just do whatever crosses your mind!»
«What do you mean?»
She puffed her cheeks but didn't reply, starting to dance with you and the other girls.
«Fine.» Cavendish sighed dramatically, reaching your little group «If you request my presence with such urgency, I shall join.»
You couldn't help but grinning as more and more Slytherin finally abandoned their zone and stepped onto the dance floor.
Sadi-chan gave a little show with her disturbing dance, Pudding was all swaying hips and eyelashes as always, and you even saw the Vinsmokes going for some robot moves.
But as much as you scanned the crowd, someone was always missing.
«Oi Killer!» you shouted to catch his attention.
He noticed you and leaned over to better hear.
«Where has Kid gone?»
The blonde seemed to frown lightly in the darkness before shrugging.
«He's around, somewhere.»
You blinked, a little confused, but decided to drop the matter for the time being.
Chapter 18: Party hard in the dungeons pt.2
Chapter Text
At some point during the dances, your eyes spotted a familiar pinkette buried in a very Ravenclaw side of the dungeon.
Reiju was as beautiful and composed as always, but you couldn't help feeling like she was a hostage of her own housemates.
«Oi, P.» you grunted, grabbing your best friend's arm «Let's go say hi to Reiju.»
She blinked at you, then her gaze followed yours.
«Why don't we go say hi when she's not in the middle of a conversation with Diez and Basil?»
Your fingers twitched on her.
«Because Diez is always around, apparently. Isn't it suspicious?»
«Maybe they are dating.»
«Sure, I'll believe it when she tells us herself!» you blurted, releasing her and marching towards the Ravenclaw.
Perona let you go with a sigh.
You cut through the crowd of dancing teens and reached the small table where the group was gathered, then slammed a grin on your face.
«Hey guys. Hi Reiju!»
The three turned to you, immediately halting their conversation.
Drake and Hawkins clearly looked down at your small figure, but you completely ignored them, focusing on your friend instead.
«How are you doing? It's been a while since we hung out.»
Reiju graced you with her small smile.
«Hi Y/n. I've seen you back there, you're as lively as always.»
Surprisingly, Hawkins crossed his arms and nodded.
«True. And yet the dark shadow casted over you never falters.»
An irritated frown settled in your features at his words.
You could count on your fingers the times you ever spoke to Basil Hawkins, and in all those occasions he had implied there was a curse on you or something.
«Of course. You saw some kind of bad omen tonight too, yes?»
His tattooed brows furrowed slightly.
«No.» he replied, his eyes fixing on you «You are the bad omen, L/n.»
«Excuse me?!»
You wanted to punch that guy. Maybe you should have listened to Perona.
«Hawkins, Vinsmoke.»
The smooth voice put on hold your angry outburst and Trafalgar Law walked over with his usual bored expression. He didn't even look at you as he addressed his mates only.
«I need to talk to you for a moment.»
You pouted.
«We were in a middle of a conversation.»
«...which you interrupted.» Drake calmly said, eyeing you.
Your gaze flicked on his.
«I...! That's rude.»
I swear, what's wrong with these ravens?!
Reiju placed her hand on your arm, her smirk never wavering.
«I'll be right back.»
She looked at you and you read the message on her face.
She agreed on keeping an eye on Trafalgar after all, although you wondered if the pact was still on.
You watched the three Ravenclaws walking away, your arms falling along your sides.
Drake was left standing beside you alone, but he didn't seem uncomfortable, simply sipping at his drink.
«Is your House trying to keep Reiju away from us?» you suddenly asked, a bitter expression curling your mouth.
«Are you trying to turn her against her House?» he retorted, not showing any sign of irritation.
You turned to him with a grimace.
«What? Why would I do that?»
He shrugged.
«There are several reasons why a snake would use a raven. I don't really know you but I've seen you sparking disasters since our first year.»
«Exactly, Drake, we entered Hogwarts together.» you hissed «Even if we never hang out, I thought you knew I'm not that kind of snake!»
«One can never be too sure.» he replied «Vinsmoke is our prefect now and our best female candidate for the Triwizard Tournament. Even if your intentions are pure, your actions can cost her.»
Your frown deepened.
«She's my friend.»
Drake's gaze brushed over you before he let out a small sigh.
«Then don't do anything that would estrange her from her House.»
Is that what I was doing? Was our pact that big of a deal?
The music was still blasting in the hall and the stroboscopic light of the now enchanted chandelier was darting on the stone walls.
You pressed your lips together as the wizard shifted to take another glass from the table.
«I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable. May I pour you a drink?»
You exhaled and leaned against the wall.
«Nah, I'm good.» you muttered, mind still deep into your thoughts.
The glass almost slipped from Drake's fingers and he jerked his head towards you so fast you dreaded it could fall off. His blue eyes were wide like you had never seen them before.
«You...»
«Hey, Y/n. Everything's fine?»
Killer approached and stood beside you, his concealed gaze scanning over Drake.
«Hum, I guess?» you replied, your baffled expression still on the ginger.
The Ravenclaw was quick in recomposing himself though, clearing his voice before talking.
«Of course, just chatting. I'll be taking my leave though, if you don't mind.»
And after a small nod, he was off.
«That guy is weird.» you murmured.
Killer hummed, then he spotted something else in the crowd and a small groan left his lips.
«What?»
You followed his gaze to the familiar redhead laughing coarsely at a group of Hufflepuff. They were a little younger than you and clearly uncomfortable in front of the huge Slytherin.
«Oh, come on.» you whined, raising your hand to catch his attention «Oi, Kid! Over here!»
He tilted his head to look in your direction, the evil grin still plastered on his face. His red hair bounced lightly at the movement, shining in the strobe light.
You had to admit he was quite impressive.
Kid's smile widened as he stopped tormenting the Hufflepuffs and headed your way.
«Yo, Killer, Y/n.»
He barely glanced at you, going straight to pour himself a drink.
«Where have you been?» you asked curiously.
«Around. Did I miss anything?»
«Not really.» you murmured, watching him gobbling down a glass of whatever the hell that blue thing was.
«Well, except that Y/n dragged the whole school in a dance competition.» Killer plainly added.
«Did she.» Kid's voice was suddenly low. He stared at his drink for a second before refilling his glass generously «Fuck, I'm starving! Where the hell's the food?»
He turned around a couple of times before spotting another table with snacks.
«Kid, wait.» you interjected, grasping his arm and pulling him back «Your eyes look weird.»
«Get off, Y/n!» he braked, shrugging you away a little too violently.
You weren't expecting such a reaction and stumbled back, but Killer immediately grabbed your shoulders and steadied you on your feet.
Kid stopped and glanced at you for a moment before snorting.
«Mind your own business!» he blurted, stomping away.
He wasn't even halfway to the table that you saw Carina waltzing around him and happily wrapping her arms around his own. He didn't shrug her off.
A very uneasy feeling dropped in your stomach.
«Is he high?» you asked Killer, your frown still glued to his back.
«Possibly.»
«Did he get high with her?»
«I guess.» Killer released your shoulders «Does it bother you?»
You scoffed, turning around to face him and moving your focus from the pair.
«She's a freaking robber! Did you forget she spent her first three years picking everybody's pockets? And I'm pretty sure she's still on it, if the occasion arises.»
«I don't think she picked his pocket.» Killer mumbled, massaging his chin.
«That's not what I meant, but she's no good, she's–»
«A little dirtblood.»
You both turned at the voice stepping in.
Ichiji was leaning against the table, his elegant black shirt unbuttoned over his chest and his eyes concealed by the usual shades.
You quirked an eyebrow.
«Excuse me?»
«I agree with you, Y/n, she's no good.» he continued «Slytherin began to fall the moment we accepted people like her in our ranks.»
Feeling Killer tensing up by your side – he was a full muggleborn and you all knew it – you clicked your tongue with a grimace.
«I can't believe you're still caught up with this racial shit, Ichiji. Get up to date, for hell's sake!»
This only caused the redhead to smirk, a predatory smile directed precisely at you.
«Relax, I'm not a purist. I'm willing to compromise.»
«Compromise?» you repeated, now confused «I have no idea what you're talking about and, frankly, I don't even wanna know.»
A loud crash echoed from the tables nearby, catching your attention.
Kid had tossed a bowl of tater tots in Niji's face and the two seemed now ready to jump at each other, while Carina and the rest of the crowd quickly backed down.
«Shit!» Killer cursed, immediately abandoning his glass on the table «I better stop that idiot.»
His hidden gaze darted from the Vinsmoke to you.
«You coming, Y/n?»
You shook your head.
«Nope, Kid made it abundantly clear that I should mind my own business. I need a bit of fresh air anyway.»
«Okay.»
After a last glance, the blonde hotfooted towards his messy best friend.
You forced yourself to peel your eyes off the scene and turned back to Ichiji.
«Aren't you going to back your brother up?»
He crossed his arms, giving you another amused smirk.
«Why would I?»
Right. Sometimes I forget that the twins are devoid of every emotion.
You pinched the bridge of your nose.
«Bye, Ichiji.»
The adrenalin rush from earlier had worn off and now the tiredness was re-claiming your body. It didn't help that, after the dance, every single conversation you had felt exhausting.
I really need some fresh air.
Heading outside the loud dungeon, you climbed up the stairs cluttered with chilling students, and reached the hallway that emerged directly in the clear night. The small backdoor was already opened, and groups of teens were hanging out here and there in the grass of the backyard.
You braced yourself, rubbing your naked arms as the cold hit you.
There was no moon but countless stars and the lanterns of the castle illuminated the night.
You swallowed deep sips of cool air, trying to tame the frustrating feeling that was curling your guts.
I should have stayed in bed.
The thought made you recall the reason you stuck around, bringing Katakuri and his warning to your mind.
Great, I didn't even think about checking on my housemates. Well, except leaving Killer alone in dealing with high Kid. Such a great prefect, Y/n!
You threw your head back and let out a long sigh, a little cloud of steam leaving your mouth and disappearing in the darkness a second after.
«Y/n?»
A tired frown etched into your features and you slowly turned to the call.
A small group of people were sitting in the grass forming a vague circle, with some bottles lying around. Most of them were from Gryffindor, but not all.
Sabo was the one who called your name. He was leaning with his back against the wall of the castle, his posture completely relaxed. Beside him there was a girl, you weren't sure about her name, but you had seen her among the Hufflepuff. Then a bunch of Gryffindors from your grade: Bartolomeo, Sanji, Nami and Zoro. Finally, Nami's older sister, whom you were fairly sure belonged to Ravenclaw.
«Hey guys.» you muttered, hands still rubbing your arms as goosebumps broke down your skin.
«Came out to catch a break?» Sabo asked.
«Something like that.»
«How on earth you don't have a sweater?!» Nami frowned, gesturing for you to come over «Here, you can have Sanji's.»
«Of course~!»
The blonde in question was already stripping off his black jacket.
Normally you wouldn't accept, but truth was you were freezing.
«Thanks.» you breathed, walking over and kneeling among the group. The grass was humid beneath your stockings.
You allowed Sanji to gently drape the jacket over your shoulders before grabbing and closing it over your chest.
«You sure you won't get cold?»
He took the lit cigarette away from his lips and patted his chest with a smile.
«Don't worry about it, little Y/n. My burning love will keep me warm.»
Surprisingly, a small chuckle made its way past your lips.
«If you say so.»
Hard to believe he's a Vinsmoke too.
Zoro rolled his eyes.
«Cut it out, you cheap Casanova.»
«What did you just call me, damn marimo?!»
«I wasn't expecting for you to stay this long.» Sabo said with a smirk, ignoring the bickering in the background.
«Katakuri told me I was supposed to, since now I'm a prefect and everything.» you sighed «Not that I did anything prefectly, down there.»
«If he wanted police duty, he could have come himself.» Nami shrugged before emptying her glass.
«Shouldn't you be careful with that?» Nojiko mused, although she didn't seem concerned in the slightest.
«Nah, you know I can take my booze.»
«Booze?»
You knew Ace and Sabo had a way to sneak some alcohol in the castle since your fourth year (you suspected Prof. Akagami had a role in the matter), but the stuff they served at their parties was always barely spiked with it, since there wasn't nearly enough to accommodate everybody. It was very rare for someone to get drunk.
«Of course.» Zoro smiled, bringing a bottle to his lips «This is the good stuff.»
«Here, troublemaker, give it a go-dabe!»
Bartolomeo leaned over and passed you a bottle.
You sniffed the content and the intense smell of alcohol sprang through your nose.
«Ugh! This seems strong.»
Sabo raised his glass with a small laugh, mirrored by the Hufflepuff girl by his side.
«What's the matter? Too much for you, Slytherin?» Nami teased.
You shot her a glare then quickly gulped down a few sips. They all cheered.
The booze burned your throat and soon you had to pull the bottle aside and cough your lungs off among general laughter.
«Don't worry.» Nojiko said, taking the bottle away from you and getting her round «It's normal if you're not used to it.»
«Not so tough tonight, huh, troublemaker?» Bartolomeo chimed, leaning with his stomach on the lawn.
«Shut up.» you grumbled.
«Where's your usual gang? Should we expect company soon?» Zoro asked.
Your mind quickly scanned through your Slytherin friends: Perona had probably found some man to flirt with by now, Reiju said she was going to be "right back" before disappearing, Kid was busy hanging out with Carina and starting fights, Killer was busy cleaning out his mess.
«I'm probably gonna be your only Slytherin here.» you smirked.
«Welcome to the club.» the Hufflepuff girl smiled «We're alone in a sea of Gryffindor, aren't we? I'm Koala by the way, I don't think we were ever officially introduced.»
«I'm Y/n.»
She giggled.
«I know.»
«Who doesn't know the little troublemaker?» Sabo chuckled.
You pouted.
«Not anymore. I intend to keep a low profile this year and soon people will forget about me.»
«Sure. Oh, I heard you met Catarina Devon tonight?»
Everybody gasped and you deadpanned at Sabo, who winked at you in return.
«What were you guys doing here?» you asked in a non-so-subtle attempt to change the subject.
Sanji inhaled from his cigarette.
«Mostly chilling,» he said «taking a break from the loud music and stuff.»
«But we can spice things up now!» Nami chimed, clapping her hands.
Nojiko glanced at her.
«What do you have in mind?»
«A simple drinking game.» the ginger happily continued «We'll take turns to ask one question to whomever we want. They get to choose whether answering or drinking.»
«What a great idea, mistress Nami-dabe!»
«Fine, but no yes-or-no questions.» you said «It would be like cheating.»
She puckered her lips but nodded.
«Deal. Ladies and gentlemen, fill up your glasses!»
Chapter 19: Party hard in the dungeons pt.3
Chapter Text
A few minutes before.
Despite being a Slytherin, Eustass Kid was not one of those wizards who bothered to remember whether someone was a "mudblood" or something else. He wouldn't have been able to point at his classmates and tell the half-blood apart from the muggle-born, with the exception of his close friends. Hell, he could even get confused on the pure-blood, and they always made a huge deal about their status.
Eustass was a pure-blood name, but Kid himself wasn't regarded as such, since his mother was definitely not a witch. With no other relative left of his once great family, he grew up in a muggle orphanage after the death of his parents. There he met Killer, whom he considered his family ever since.
So when Niji leaned on the table of snacks beside him with a smirk and said something like "you know, it's good that you decided to settle for a total mudblood in the end" he was just confused. At first, at least.
Niji's eyes were covered by his shades, but his cruel smirk unmistakably drifted onto Carina and the girl's grip on Kid's arm tensed for a second before she flaunted a careless smile.
«Piss off, Vinsmoke.» Kid grunted, not really moving his attention from the tater tots he recently claimed as his.
«I assure you, Niji, nobody is settling for anything here~» Carina chimed, peering at him from behind Kid.
The bluette chuckled, folding his arms over his chest.
«All I'm saying is you're just more... suitable for him.»
Carina's cheerful expression clouded.
«'More' than what?»
Niji grinned and tilted his head to hint at the adjacent wall of the dungeon, where you and Killer were talking to his brother.
Kid wasn't following the conversation, continuing to shove food into his mouth, but Carina's eyes sharpened in two thin slit of hatred.
«Why is this even your concern, Niji?» she hissed.
«You're right, in a way. She's still just a mudblood after all.»
Something in that sentence finally caught Kid's attention.
He turned his head to his housemate, chewing loudly before swallowing.
«Who?»
«...but some mudblood are more worthy than others.» Niji continued, ignoring him «I don't know why she sticks to that muggle name, but her mother's heritage is nothing to sneeze at. Plus, she's a D. This makes up for her origins.»
Kid frowned, his bloodshot eyes flicking on you before fixing on Niji.
«The fuck are you talking about, Vinsmoke?»
«Isn't it clear?»
«People's names are none of your fucking business.»
«Oh, but hers is.» the bluette licked his lips «She's going to make a fine bride for Ichiji or me. Well, with a few adjustments, of course. Can't have her as wild as she is now, can we?»
Carina jumped away from Kid just in time.
The redhead didn't even reply. He just grabbed the bowl of tater tots and hurled it right in Niji's face with all his strength.
Now.
«How many people in Slytherin have you hooked up with?»
The question caused your eyes to nearly fall off from your skull, you certainly didn't need to drink for this one.
«None! What the heck, Nami?!»
«Eeeeh, none?» she looked disappointed «Are you a virgin, Y/n?»
You felt your face heating up at first and brought the glass closer to your lips, but then you changed your mind. What the hell, you didn't need to feel ashamed for something like that!
«I've never been with anyone.» you grumbled, keeping your gaze fixed on hers «I've other things on my mind when I'm at Hogwarts, and during summer I never see people my age.»
«Little Y/n, you're so pure!» Sanji swooned joining his hands together and looking at you with hearts in his eyes.
Sabo chuckled.
«Y/n is too busy with adventure for romance. I respect it.»
«My turn!» Koala declared, pointing at Nojiko «Who's your crush?»
The girl blinked in surprise.
«Who says I have a crush?»
«You suddenly started wearing make-up, but only when you can meet people outside your class. Like tonight, or at the Duelling tournament.»
Nami turned to her sister.
«What? Really?»
«So it must be someone younger.»
Nojiko let out a small sigh.
«You're very observant, Koala.»
«Ehe. So, are you going to tell us?»
But the witch only smirked before taking a long sip from her glass.
«Aww, bummer.»
«Guess it's me then.» Sabo smiled, pointing at Sanji «You always swoon after all the girls, but have you ever actually gotten one?»
Most of the people laughed and Sanji growled at him, but eventually he just drank, which elicited even more laughter.
The game continued and alcoholic degree rose. Eventually, everybody started avoiding the question, which became more and more embarrassing.
Bartolomeo got teased for his crush on Professor Nico Robin, while somehow Nami mentioned an episode from your fourth year that you had tried to forget, when the male Quidditch lodge was attacked by gnomes while the men were in the shower and they all ran out naked. Of course you were right there, about to enter the female rooms, and saw everything. Well, except Katakuri, who stayed inside to get rid of the gnomes.
None of the guys seemed too fazed that you saw them naked (maybe Killer was a little embarrassed), but you got teased for it for months. At least until Prof. Eneru started to try and murder you, then there was a new topic to go on about.
You had hoped nobody remembered such a thing, but Nami and the other girls relentlessly asked about sizes and shapes, so you shut your eyes and gobbled down shot after shot. Soon enough, you were out of commission.
«Hum, Y/n, have you ever drunk before?» Sabo asked with his eyebrow raised once you started rolling on the freezing grass.
The question sounded hilarious for some reason, and you burst in a fit of giggles.
«Weeeell, I, hic!... My uncle sometimes lets me taste his spirits...»
A dumb grin spread on your lips and you lay in the lawn, blurred gaze attracted to the black sky.
The sight of the stars filled your guts with mystery and gave you that strange feeling of stillness and excitement.
«Little Y/n, you'll freeze this way!» Sanji gasped, hurrying by your side to adjust his jacket over you.
«Nooo, I'm not cold.» you grumbled, fiddling to wiggle away from it.
«She's out.» Zoro commented, chunking down another shot.
«She's not at all used to alcohol, is she?» Nami snickered «Slytherins sure put on lots of airs, but they don't even sneak in booze, apparently.»
«That... was dumb of me.» Sabo sighed, burying his face in his hand.
Koala turned to him.
«What do you mean?»
«Whiiiiiiiii!» you chimed, rolling over in the damp, much for Sanji's dismay. Your clothes were already wet and stained with mud.
«Isn't she the new prefect of Slytherin?» Nojiko chuckled.
«Ugh.» Sabo grimaced «This is not good, guys. We have to bring her back to her dorm before she feels sick. Or catches a cold.»
Bartolomeo frowned.
«How? It's not like we can access her dorm-dabe.»
«Yeah, that's the problem. We have to ask someone from Slytherin.»
«Shit.»
«I can think of more than one person who would skin us alive if they see her like this.» Nami commented, but despite her words she was smirking.
«Exactly.» Sabo pouted «Nothing we can do about it though.»
«I'll go.» Nojiko offered, standing up «It's better if it comes from a Ravenclaw after all, and I'm senior to most of her friends.»
«Waaah, leemme goo-ah!»
The group's attention was stolen by your sudden whine and Sanji's growl as he glared at his housemate.
«Oi, Marimo, why do you get to hold her?!»
«You're clearly too gentle for it!» Zoro grunted, his arms firmly wrapped around you after he somehow tethered the black jacket over your torso, restraining your movements. You were still squirming and grumbling but none of your efforts seemed to affect the Gryffindor, who just huffed in response.
«Can you stay still for a second?»
«No-oh! Zoro, I sw-hear, Imma enchant yourr dick...! Lemme go!»
Nami and Bartolomeo burst in laughter while Zoro scoffed, a faint blush spreading on his cheeks at your threat.
«Whatever you guys are going to do, do it fast! I don't want to be expelled for grabbing a drunk girl against her consent!»
«YES! AGAINST MY CONCERN!»
«Oh shit.» Sabo gasped, glancing around to see a number of students peering at the commotion «We better move.»
«I'm on it.» Nojiko said, heading towards the entrance.
«Wait!» Nami stopped her «Try to get Perona and Heat. You know, the quiet guy with long blue hair? They're the most likely to understand without making a fuss. If you need help, you can ask Reiju, as far as I know, she's good friend with Y/n. Whatever you do, do not let Eustass hear about this!»
Nojiko nodded and left the backyard.
Reiju slid her wand back into her lather shorts after renewing the charm that kept the colourful lights darting across the dungeons.
It was at least peculiar for Trafalgar to ask her and Hawkins for this favour. And with such a perfect timing.
After politely rejecting Gin's invite to dance, she slid through the crowd of agitating bodies and passed by a Slytherin brawl, her eyes scanning the walls until they finally landed on her two housemates, currently engaged in what seemed a very stern conversation. With a small frown curling her features, she quietly approached.
«...even if you were right about this, it doesn't mean anything.» Drake hissed, lowering his head.
«I'm afraid you're not being objective, Drake-ya.»
«I'm afraid you aren't, Trafalgar. Your accusations are pretty serious and you can't–»
He was abruptly interrupted when Law leaned to the side, his golden irises fixing on Reiju as his hand rose to halt him.
«Vinsmoke-ya.»
Drake stiffened and turned to her.
Reiju's lips tightened for a second before her usual smirk relaxed them. That Trafalgar was pretty hard to catch off guard.
«I came to tell you that I will retire for the night. Hawkins took the charm over.»
Law hummed.
«I see. Thank you for your help.»
«Are you boys alright? You look a little tense.»
«We're fine.» Drake stated, crossing his arms.
«Good.»
Reiju walked away with a last nod but before she could leave the dungeons, she caught sight of another pinkette waving her way.
«Hi Perona.» she greeted when the girl reached her.
«Hey, Reiju. Have you seen Y/n around?»
«Not since before. Why, is she in some kind of trouble?»
«I don't know.» Perona sighed «She said she was coming to you, then she disappeared.»
Reiju's eyes flicked to the ground.
«We didn't have the chance to talk, actually. I'm sorry about that, my housemates are getting wary about some people.»
«Some people? What's that supposed to mean?»
«They're probably convinced Y/n is going to be a champion for the Triwizard Tournament.»
«But she said she's not going to put her name in the Goblet!»
«Yes, that's what I told them but...»
Her words faded into a sigh and Perona grumbled in frustration.
«Hum, Gekko, Vinsmoke?»
The girls turned to see Heat approaching from the crowd with Nojiko by his side. It was hard to tell with him, but he look rather nervous, one hand never stopping to mess with his locks and his eyes continuously darting to the Ravenclaw.
«We've got a little problem.»
Meanwhile, Wire was having a hard time wrestling Kid to keep him away from an already unconscious Niji.
«He fucking started it!» Kid barked.
«Holy shit, this guy is reeeeally down.» Ace laughed, crouching to take a look at Niji's bleeding nose.
Ichiji scoffed and shrugged Cavendish's arm off before wiping away the blood from his lip.
«Let me go! I'm fine!»
Killer growled a warning, massaging his bruised knuckles.
«You guys are barbarians.» Cavendish stated, glancing at the mess «What was that for? The last tater tot?»
Ichiji's mouth twisted in a creepy smile and his tongue sneaked out to collect some droplets of blood.
«You could say that, yes.»
Killer gritted his teeth and pointed a menacing finger to his chest.
«Stay. Away.»
«For now.»
Cavendish rolled his eyes and walked away with a frown.
«All for a freaking potato! Idiots.»
«Fine, FINE!» Kid shouted, swatting Wire's grip away and leaning against the table, arms crossed.
Carina immediately appeared by his side and touched his shoulder.
«Oh my god, Kid! Are you okay?»
«What?» the redhead's eyes flicked down to her «Yeah, yeah.»
But his features were still cemented in an angry scowl and his fingers were nervously tapping against his bicep.
Wire sighed and turned to the blond approaching.
«You good?»
«Yeah, but that Vinsmoke knows how to hit.»
«Those bastards.» Kid hissed.
A moment of silence descended on the small group as they all contemplated the disaster of snacks and drinks on the floor.
Killer let out a quiet hum and was about to suggest heading to the dorm when some nearby murmurs caught his ear.
«...I'm telling you, she's just outside, barely conscious, rolling all over Gryffindors guys.»
Normally he wouldn't pay attention to such party rumours, but his stomach churned unpleasantly at that. Maybe it was the word "outside" and the fact you were supposed to be there.
As a confirmation he was not alone in this, Killer saw Kid glancing to the source.
Just a few feet away, Pudding was leaning close to her sister Smoothie to continue her dramatic whispering.
«And she even has very little clothes on herself!»
«That girl.» Smoothie clicked her tongue in disgust «She's a shame for the House. I'll never understand how they made her prefect.»
Prefect?
Killer cursed and was almost startled by the hand that immediately grabbed his wrist.
«Did they fucking say "barely conscious"?!»
«Ye–»
But Kid didn't even wait for his reply, turning to his feet and rushing towards the stairs.
«Come on!» Killer called, running behind him with Wire.
Carina watched them all storming out of the dungeon. Then she let out a long breath and sat over the battered table.
A lonely tater tot was half-splattered on the wood by her thigh. She picked it up and held it in front of her face, an eyebrow slowly rising.
«I'll never get all this fuss over a tater tot.»
«Okay, you take her if you find it that funny!»
Zoro literally threw you against Bartolomeo, who was laughing his ass off in front of his struggles to keep you still and covered. His laughter turned into a guttural yelp when you fell over him, sending you both lying in the grass with you bumping your forehead on his chest.
«Ouch! Ugh. Everything spiiiiiins!»
«Oi, oi, don't you be sick on top of me-dabe!»
«Careful, she's tossing the jacket again.» Zoro warned.
Bartolomeo sat up and straightened you on his lap before blocking your arms along your sides.
«What are you doing, you rooste-her, I'm gunna feed you to the squid!»
«She's strong! Why is she so strong? She's tiny!» Bartolomeo huffed while trying to restrain you.
«Okay, keep her, I'm going to put the jacket back on.» Sanji instructed, kneeling beside him «Oi, stupid marimo, just hold her arm for a sec.»
Zoro scoffed but eventually complied, and soon you found yourself wrestling the three of them together in a chorale of grunts and curses.
«Yeah, this looks pretty wrong.» Koala observed sitting beside Nami and Sabo, who hid his face in his hands.
The few people who came out for smoking or taking some fresh air were all peering your way now, and murmurs were already crawling around.
«Having some problems here?»
Sabo raised his head and frowned when he saw Bellamy licking his lips. Nevertheless, he gave him his careless grin and shrugged.
«All good, thanks.»
«You know, I could take her off your hands.» Bellamy smiled, hinting at you «Just leave her with me and I'll see that she reaches her dorm safely.»
Ice entered Nami's features and she stood up.
«Excuse me?»
«Bellamy.» Sabo rose as well, stepping beside the ginger with a smile.
Nami glanced at him confused when he placed a friendly hand over his shoulder, but Bellamy's expression suddenly twitched in pain as Sabo's fingers dug a little too deep.
«You're surely out of your mind if you think we'll let her alone with you for even one second.» he said cheerfully «And if I ever see you around any drunk girl, I'll kill you.»
The Hufflepuff shivered and took a step back.
«F-Fucking Gryffindor...»
«I'll see you around.»
Bellamy gritted his teeth but took the hint, quickly making his way back into the castle.
«They say Hogwarts is supposed to be the safest place for us...» Koala sighed, watching him disappearing inside.
«We'll always have to watch our back.» Nami murmured, palming her arm «Come on, let's help the guys, looks like they need it.»
«SHE BIT ME! SHE JUST BIT ME! HOLY SHIT!» Bartolomeo squeaked, retracting his arm.
This gave you a little opening and you clumsily threw yourself in the grass. You would have landed face first if Sanji hadn't grabbed you mid-air.
«Woha, careful there!»
«Like that, hold her!»
Zoro basically tackled you, straddling you against Sanji (who cursed) and trying to shove you back into the jacket.
«Noooooo! I'm hot! Dun wanna! HELP!»
«SSHHH!» Bartolomeo gasped, pressing his hand against your mouth «Please dontlickmedontbitemepleasepleaseplease! ZORO, HURRY UP!»
«I'M TRYING!»
Sabo grimaced.
«Guys, please, keep it do–»
«WHAT THE FUCK IS GOING ON THERE?!»
The sudden roar startled them all and they frantically turned to see Eustass Kid charging at them like a fighting bull, Killer and Wire right behind him. They all had their wands in hand.
«Shit!» Sabo hissed, immediately reaching for his.
His shifting allowed Kid to get a better view of the scene in front. Which consisted in three guys pressing you against the ground, keeping you shut with their grip on the jacket halfway down your arms.
Nami could swear she saw Eustass' pupils disappear at that point and his gaze being replaced with nothing but fire. She could just grab Koala's arm and jump out of his range.
«GET YOUR FUCKING HANDS OFF HER NOW!»
Sabo casted the barrier just in time. Kid's blazing spell crushed against the invisible wall so violently it shattered, and the recoil made the blonde stumble back.
«Eustass, stop! It's not what it seems!»
«I'M GOING TO FUCKING MURDER YOU!»
The guys around you swiftly let you go to grasp their wands and you finally managed to shrug them off and gain a few feet in the grass, although your balance was too impaired to even attempt to sit at that point.
«Kiiiiiiiid!» you chimed, a grin spreading to your face as you stretched your arms towards him «You came!»
It was Zoro who fended against Kid's second spell now. Killer was about to attack too but Sabo jumped in front of him with raised hands and spoke as fast as he could.
«Kamazo, please! We were trying to put clothes ON her, not the other way around! She got drunk and she's hard to handle!»
Killer let out a terrifying growl but hesitated, his eyes darting on your figure covered in mud.
Even if they were Gryffindors, he had been in the same class with those guys for five years and he would have never expected them to take advantage of a girl like that. Plus, now that he was taking a better look at you, you were all giggles and smiles.
«Kid, wait!» he called grabbing his friend's arm.
«What the fuck, Killer?!»
«Stop! I think they were really trying to help!»
Kid's face jerked towards him with an incredulous look.
«What?»
«Kiiiiiiiid!»
His attention was averted to you and you clumsily waved at him from the ground, finally throwing away that damn jacket.
«I cannt... shtand. Hic!» you pouted «Why 'rryou pointing your wand?»
«Y/n, are you okay?» Killer asked, still not lowering his weapon.
A big smile opened up on your face and you relaxed your cheek on the lawn, lifting your thumb.
«I'm drunk!»
«Yes, I can see that.»
«You want her, you take her-dabe!» Bartolomeo barked, finally raising from the ground and keeping his wand pointed at Kid «She's a freaking bar of soap! Which bites!»
«I swear, we were only trying to keep her from freezing. She wasn't cooperative and just wanted to roll in the mud.» Sabo explained «I suggest we all put our wands down now.»
«We were playing a drinking game. We didn't know she couldn't handle any alcohol.» Nami added, finally mastering the courage to walk a little closer.
Kid's amber eyes darted from one Gryffindor to another before he shoved the wand in his pocket and advanced, violently bumping his shoulder against Zoro.
«Out of my way.» he hissed.
Zoro gritted his teeth, but Nami's grip closed on his sleeve.
The redhead's huge shadow finally hovered on you and you moved on your back. Your head was now spinning so much you had to squint to distinguish his features in the darkness. Still, you smiled and held your arms up for him.
«Pick me up?»
He grimaced.
«How much booze did you fucking give her?»
«Not that much, really.»
Kid snorted and crouched down, grabbing your arms and lifting you up against his side.
He was a bit too brusque with his movements and your stomach curled in an unpleasant way, while your head almost rolled away from your neck.
«Ugh!»
You shut your eyes and pressed your hand against your mouth.
Thankfully, after a horrible second, the moment passed and your guts seemed to calm down. At least for the time being.
Kid's arm wrapped firmly around your small figure and you shivered.
You were so sure you were really hot, but all of a sudden you realized how cold it was just outside his warmth. You instinctively nuzzled against his chest and your body shivered violently.
«Coooold.» you grumbled.
Kid stiffened, his lip twitching as he turned his face away from you, the pale skin of his neck already heating up.
«Of course you are, you idiot! You're wearing nothing!»
You pouted.
«Why are you ahngry? Why are you aaaaalways angry?»
«Because you...!» his words went on into an incoherent growl and he eventually resorted in peeling off his red sweater and shoving it over your head «Here! Stupid girl.»
The world turned upside down and you swayed, but he quickly secured his hold back on you and pulled the sweater down with a curt tug.
It was gigantic for you and you weren't sure where to put your hands, but it was warm and smelled like him, so you closed your eyes and leaned onto his black T-shirt.
«Oh, now she's complying!» Bartolomeo scoffed.
«Guys!»
The moment Perona and the others stepped outside, they immediately noticed Kid and his gang.
«Shit.» Nojiko hissed, picking up her pace.
The group reached them just while Killer was facing Sabo.
«We'll pretend this never happened. This time.» the blonde spoke slowly «From now on, stay away from our comrades, Monkey.»
Sabo sighed.
«It was all a misunderstanding and I'm sure she'll tell you herself as soon as she's lucid again.»
«That better be the case.» Kid growled, turning to him «Or you're a dead man.»
«We were called by them to bring her back to Slytherin's quarters!» Perona stepped in, trying to cool down the spirits.
«It's true, Kid.» Heat said, approaching his friend «They asked me to come.»
Kid scoffed, but Killer's posture relaxed at that.
«Hum, Kid?» you muttered, fingers twisting his T-shirt «I... I think I'm gonna be sick.»
«Ugh, okay. Can you hold it for a while, sprite?»
«Y-Yeah, but...»
The sense of nausea was growing more intense by the second and your consciousness was slipping away.
«I don't... feel so good.»
«Let's go!» Perona urged, tugging at Kid's shirt.
You barely registered him picking you up in his arms before abandoning your cheek on his chest.
Chapter 20: A lovely Sunday pt.1
Chapter Text
«You guys stay here and as lookouts.»
«Yeah, and if a patrol shows up what do we do? Punch them in the face?»
«Kid!» Killer hissed, hitting his arm.
He only earned a scoff in return but he ignored it and turned to Reiju.
«Sorry. We’ll keep guard.»
The girl nodded with a small smile before turning and entering the prefects’ bathroom.
«“Sorry, we’ll keep guard”» Kid mocked him with a whiny voice, leaning against the wall with his arms crossed.
«Shut up.» Killer grunted, leaning on the other side of the entrance.
«What is it, you got the hots for that chick?»
«You got the hots for Y/n?»
«I don’t have…! Shut up.»
It’s.
Not.
Worth it.
Your pale fingers grasped at the borders of the toilet as you bent down again to throw up some more.
«Oh, crap.» Perona cursed, pulling your hair away from your forehead.
«It’s a bad intoxication. But she’ll survive.» Reiju agreed, collecting your locks into a ponytail.
«Those damn Gryffindors!» the pinkette twitched her nose.
«Drinking was her choice.»
«Yes but still! She never drinks!»
«Calm down, P. She’ll be fine.»
You coughed out another stream of vomit.
«Oh my god, it’s disgusting.» Perona complained, averting her eyes.
«Pretty much.»
A long, suffering groan rolled out of your mouth with that last strand of saliva and you fell on your butt, clumsily dragging yourself against the wall.
«I feel… like shit…»
«Well, you can only blame yourself!»
«Ugh…!» you brought your hand on your head, Perona’s high pitch piercing through your brain.
«Don’t worry, Y/n, you’re only drunk.» Reiju dabbed some paper around your chin «The twins get wasted all the time and they’re still very much alive. You only need rest and plenty of water.»
«My head is throbbing like a mature pimple, and my stomach…»
You couldn’t finish the sentence, your eyes widening just before you threw yourself over the toilet and puked again.
Perona watched with a horrified grimace and Reiju sighed.
«I think it will take a little longer.»
It took almost another half an hour before you could bear to leave the toilet area.
The two girls supported you as you moved trembling steps towards the sink, grabbing it gratefully as soon as you reached it.
It felt like the world was spinning and rotating around you like a top. You couldn’t even let go of the white ceramic with one hand, so Reiju helped you washing your face.
«There’s no way she can walk back to the dungeons.»
It was almost 3 am now, well past the students’ curfew.
The entire castle was wrapped in silent darkness, a time that wasn’t safe to walk around.
Reiju had leaded them to the prefects’ bathroom of the ground floor, since less people had access to it and it was easier to hide around there.
«It shouldn’t be a problem,» the Ravenclaw smirked «Eustass didn’t seem to mind carrying her around.»
«He’ll mind after he smells his own sweater here.»
«Tell me ONE ThINg, Reiju!» you suddenly blurted, throwing your head back. Which caused you to almost fell backwards but they thankfully grabbed you in time.
«Stay still, Y/n!»
«Tell ME Why the TWiNs wOUld get WAstEd all THE TIIme.» your stomach churned and you fell on your knees, dragging the girls down «It’s not… worth it.»
«Oof! Y/n!»
«Your body already passed the good phase and it’s trying to fight the alcohol.» Reiju explained softly «You’re too drunk to remember now, but you were having a lot of fun just an hour ago.»
«Yeah, YAH, I’m tellINg you.» you pressed your fingertip on her nose «It’s. Not. Worth it.»
«Then don’t do it again!» Perona barked, giving a curt tug to your arm to make you stand «Come on, I want to be back in the dorm before Paulie catches us!»
They managed to walk you back to the entrance, then Reiju left you briefly to meet the guys.
«Thank you for waiting.»
«How is she?» Kid brusquely asked.
«Alive. She’s still not able to stand properly though, do you think you can help us out?»
Kid scoffed, pushing himself away from the wall and heading to the bathroom doors.
«Forgive him, he’s not used to… well, helping people.» Killer shrugged, but she shook her head.
«Looks like a good friend to me. A little rough around the edges maybe, but a good friend.»
«He is.» the blond tapped the tip of his shoe against the floor «Well, I’ll walk you to Ravenclaw’s quarters then. I guess we’re done here.»
Reiju lifted an amused eyebrow.
«I know the way to my House.»
«Sure, but I’ll be more comfortable if we go together. The castle is not safe this late in the night, and you were stuck here to help us.»
«Helping a friend is no burden to me.» but she nodded anyway «I’ll take your offer then.»
Perona was keeping you on your feet by pinning your shoulders to the wall and she grumbled the whole time.
«Look what a mess you put yourself into, Y/n. Can’t you just, for once, be normal?»
She only received an incoherent whine in reply. Your mind was clouded with half-dreams, thirst and a precarious sense of nausea, leaving you barely conscious.
«Hey, sprite. You look like shit.»
Kid stepped in and took your figure away from Perona, his warm hands grabbing your shoulders and moving your side against him.
«She’s out.» the pinkette informed him «Try to be gentle, she may throw up again.»
«Ugh. Awesome.»
The redhead wrapped an arm around your torso and lifted your legs with the other.
«Come on.»
Perona observed the brute doing his best to adjust you in his hold as gently as possible. His voice, normally so gruff and coarse, had a soft shade she never heard before, and even his features look less sharper than usual.
You let out a groan and buried your face in his T-shirt.
«Kiiiid.»
«Hm.»
The hum rumbled in his chest and through your cheek, the comforting vibration relaxing you instantly.
Killer peered into the entrance to tell the group he was walking Reiju to her House, so your trio headed for the dungeons.
Kid seemed able to carry you around effortlessly, and you eventually dozed off in his arms.
The night passed in a weird mixture of nightmares, sickness and sweat.
You barely remembered Perona’s curses as she tried to drag you up the stairs and the complains of the other girls for all the times you asked for water or something to throw up in.
When you finally regained consciousness, a pale November sun was filtrating through he curtains and the blanked was soaked with your sweat.
It’s. Not. Worth it.
A long groan left your throat as you squinted your eyes. It was soon clear it wasn’t the brightest idea, because a surge of pain traversed your head.
Fuck my life.
Your arm crawled out of the sheets and grabbed the headboard to help you sit.
Normally you were sleeping on top of the bunk bed but this time Perona left you on the bottom one and took yours.
No girl was in the dorm.
The sole action of sitting sent your head for a spin race.
Among your grunts and scowls, you spotted a glass of water with a note on the nightstand.
“Good morning idiot. Drink this up.”
My beautiful best friend, ladies and gentlemen.
But you gratefully gulped down the fresh water. It helped with the throbbing headache, even if your stomach gurgled in protest.
The morning had already come and gone, just like lunchtime, and it took another two hours to crawl out of the bed, stagger in the bathroom and take a shower.
The desire of rotting in your blanket for the rest of the day was strong but you had tons of homework to be done for the upcoming day, and sooner or later you had to try and put some solid food in your belly.
Eventually you slid into some pants and a comfortable jumper. While scavenging among the clothes thrown in a messy pile beside your bed, you spotted a red sweater, definitely too big for you. You frowned, picking it up.
«This is…»
Oh shit. Oooh shit.
Just like that, flashbacks from the night before flooded your mind.
The drinking game. Nami’s embarrassing questions. The Gryffindor guys trying to… force a jacket on you. A jacket that you were continuously tossing away.
Did I… did I bite Bartolomeo?!
And then… you winced, trying to remember the details.
Kid was there. Kid was pissed. You almost caused a magic fight between Slytherin and Gryffindor. That, until you were carried away.
You closed your eyes and let out a weak cry.
That was Kid’s sweater. You suddenly remembered his warmth, his scent, how you felt weightless and safe in his arms…
Your guts curled and you blushed heavily.
He was probably so done with you now. Kid was not the kind of guy who put up so easily with such bullshit.
Even more, you were sent to that party by Katakuri with the task of keeping an eye out for your housemates, and all you did was covering yourself in shame and embarrassment.
I ruined everything.
You cursed below your breath, your fingers tormenting the red sweater.
I’m such a mess.
You sneaked down the stairs and lingered above the last flight, keeping your ears out for any noise from the common hall.
It was the middle of the afternoon of a Sunday, but the room sounded empty. It wasn’t strange, most of the students were spending their free time hanging around in the castle.
You finally took a deep breath and marched into the hall, silently praying for it to be truly empty.
Nobody seemed to be there at first glance.
You tiptoed towards the exit as fast as you could and you ended up clashing heads with someone who was doing the exact same thing from the opposite side.
«Ouch!»
«Wah!»
You stumbled backwards and grabbed an armchair to retain your balance, your hand rubbing your temple.
«What the… Page One?»
«L/n?»
The short guy peered at you from below his side bangs, his movements mirroring yours as he massaged his own forehead.
«What the hell were you doing?!»
«First of all, I could ask you the same thing. Second of all, I’m trying to avoid my sister.»
«Oh, I see. I was trying to avoid, huh… everybody.»
«Yeah, makes sense.»
You frowned.
«Wait, what’s that supposed to mean?»
Page One quickly looked around to confirm there was no one else in sight, then let out a resigned sigh.
«Did you just now get out of the dorm?»
«Yeah… I wasn’t feeling very well.»
Most of his face was concealed by the surgical mask he often wore, but his sceptical gaze was easy to read.
«I believe that, with all you had to drink last night.»
«Wait… you know about that?»
«Everybody knows about that.»
You watched him taking a seat in one of the armchairs, clearly relaxed by the absence of his twin sister.
«I… were people talking about it a lot?» you asked.
«I believe they still are.»
«What is it they are saying exactly?»
Page One tilted his face toward you and remained quiet for a moment, almost like he was weighting the words in his mind.
«That you got wasted, rolled around half-naked with Gryffindor Quidditch team until Eustass broke in and dragged you away. Oh, and that you whined in your alcoholic delirium for the rest of the night.»
Since you had temporarily lost your ability to speak, you only stared at him in silence for a few seconds.
Page One shrugged and folded his arms behind his nape.
«Don’t stress about it too much, L/n, you should be used to be Hogwarts’ hot topic.» his eyes trailed to the side in what looked like a scowl «Not that I would know how it feels.»
You buried your face in your fingers.
«It sucks.»
«If you say so.»
«Okay. Okay.» you took a deep breath «I’ll go hide into a hole for the rest of the day. Or the year. Don’t tell anybody you saw me, please.»
«Not even Katakuri? He was looking for you earlier. He didn’t seem happy.»
Your stomach dropped.
«No, especially not Katakuri!»
«Fine.»
«Thank you, Pay-Pay.» you grumbled, heading out of the dungeon.
«Don’t call me that!!»
You hurried through the colonnades of the yard, keeping your head low into the thick scarf. Even then, it felt like the rumours were chasing you.
You made eye contact with a group of Ravenclaw girls who turned to whisper and chortle among each other at your passage. A surge of anger and shame traversed your chest up to your face, heating up your cheeks.
Bitches.
Normally you would have openly faced them. It was the shame, you weren’t used to that. It made you press your lips together and walk away, trying to ignore their annoying shrills.
But as the situation repeated itself over and over as you rushed towards the West Tower, anger started to outgrow shame, your teeth gritting in rage as you tried to cut across the voices echoing around you.
The last straw came with the catcalling a few guys whistled behind you. Your head jerked back to see Gambia, Jeet and Abdullah, three Hufflepuff, sneering and eyeing you with malicious gazes.
You felt your fingers tingling in rage and marched towards them with blazing eyes.
«Woho, the little troublemaker is coming this way!»
«Maybe I can convince her to roll around with me a little b–»
You grabbed Jeet’s collar and tugged him down to your height, choking the words in his throat.
«Do you want me to kick your ass in front of everybody, you damn badger?!» you hissed in his face.
«Huh, such a feisty demeanour…!»
«L/n.»
The guys stiffened at the voice coming from behind and you straight up froze.
Your grip reluctantly let go of Jeet and you turned slowly.
Katakuri stood a few feet away, his arms crossed over his chest and the Slytherin scarf wrapped around his chin as always.
Your mouth twitched and you shifted to face him properly, letting the Hufflepuff students sneak away.
Your heart started pounding in your chest, pumping the anxiety through your veins.
He came further and stopped right in front of you.
Unable to bear his gaze, you dropped your eyes to the ground.
«Smoothie told me what happened yesterday.»
Your fingers fiddled with your uniform.
«How would she know, she wasn’t there.» you grumbled.
«Then you tell me.»
You frowned at the soil.
«I got a little drunk.»
Katakuri waited for you to continue but when it wasn’t clear you weren’t going to add anything else, he shook his head.
«I don’t care about the details. All I care about is that you embarrassed yourself and, by extension, our House.»
Your face snapped up.
«What does it have to do with the House?!» you hissed.
His eyes sharpened and you felt the air drying in your throat.
Nobody ever talked back to Katakuri.
«You are a prefect of Slytherin now.» he stated «The time when you could go around recklessly causing trouble is over. You have responsibilities.»
You gritted your teeth.
«Responsibilities I didn’t ask for.»
«Grow up, L/n.» he suddenly growled, his eyes catching fire for a second «You think people normally ask for responsibilities? Your value depends on how you’ll handle what life throws at you, and yesterday you did poorly.»
His words hit you like a slap in the face.
Your teeth sank in your lower lip and your cheeks flushed.
Katakuri pinched the bridge of his nose.
«Think about it and do better in the future.» he sighed before walking past you.
Your hands let go the tormented creases of your uniform and you ran towards the West Tower.
Reiju was reading a book about the history of Hogwarts’ ghosts in the library.
It was a normal hobby of hers but that Sunday there was also another reason.
Trafalgar Law was studying his papers on the other end of the long table.
When you didn’t know where to find him, the library was always a good guess.
After the night before, Reiju was more interested than ever in finding out what was Law’s deal.
Most of the afternoon had passed already, and Trafalgar had hardly raised his face from the study. She had almost given up when Drake appeared from behind a bookcase and sat right in front of his mate.
Reiju’s eyes stayed on the inked pages but her ears were totally focused on the males.
«It’s done.» Trafalgar murmured without moving his gaze.
«I’m not sure about it.»
«We’ve been over this already.»
«What if you’re wrong?»
«I’m not.»
Drake grumbled something, his attention darting to Reiju.
«Yes, she’s still keeping an eye on us.» Law commented, scribbling down something in his notes.
Reiju didn’t react.
Drake grimaced, standing up.
«Fine. I’m trusting you on this, Trafalgar.»
Law hummed and Drake walked away.
After a few moments, Reiju spoke.
«So, should I still keep an eye on you, guys?»
«As much as you want. But as I told you already, we’re not the ones you should be suspicious of.»
Reiju leaned down her book.
«Who should I be suspicious of, then?»
Law glanced at her, then out of the window.
«Hopefully, after tonight, everything will be clear.»
You mumbled some unbound notes, your chin resting on your arms on top of the railing.
A cold wind had started to blow from the North, carrying dead leaves up to the balustrade outside the Owlery.
Far caws echoed in the grey sky and Tokoyami came gliding to lay by your side.
A weak smile entered your features.
«Hey there.»
The raven cawed his greetings, shaking his shiny feathers.
«How are you doing?»
You offered him an acorn and he gobbled it down with enthusiasm.
«Sorry I missed the mail hour this weekend. Was there anything for me from uncle?»
Tokoyami tilted his head and blinked. You pouted.
«I thought so.»
You buried your face into your arms.
The Owlery was a peaceful stop during your weekends since few people ever climbed up there.
I feel like I’m trash.
Your lower lip trembled lightly and you winced.
You had been through several troubles in your school years but you never felt so bad about yourself.
Someone’s steps stopped a few stairs below you.
«Oh. Sorry, I… I can come back.»
You groaned and lifted your head, hastily rubbing your pale face.
It was Shachi who was now standing awkwardly in the middle of the flight, unsure of what to do.
Of course, of all people it had to be the one you hurled against a wall just a couple of days before.
You moved aside to clear his path.
«Don’t worry, I was about to go.»
«Huh, are you okay?»
You stopped and quirked your eyebrow at him.
«Why would you care?»
The Ravenclaw pushed his hair back below the hat, his irises nervously meeting yours.
«No, it’s just… you look down.»
You were about to retort with a caustic comment but managed to bite your tongue back in time. Shachi was being nice despite you kicking his ass at the tournament and he didn’t deserve your rage.
«Maybe you’ve heard about it, I wasn’t at my best last night.»
What’s the point in pretending it’s not about it? Everybody knows already.
«I’ve heard. For what is worth, I think those are all bullshit. You didn’t do anything weird for a teen party.»
You blinked, staring at him for a while before a chuckle broke through your pout.
«Really! I didn’t know you were so mature, Shachi.»
He smiled too, finally approaching the roosts and calling down a barn owl from the upper levels.
«I think it’s Law’s influence rubbing off.»
«True.» you observed him petting the owl on his head before tying an envelope to his leg «I remember you and Penguin being two wannabe bullies during first year.»
Shachi grimaced at the memory.
«Ugh. Yeah. Law really taught us a lesson back then.»
You were pretty sure Killer had beaten them up too after they made fun of his laugh or something but decided against reminding him.
«And look at you know. So wise.» you snickered.
«Ha-ha. Don’t mock around, L/n, you were no saint either. We were literally one week into our first year when you and Eustass decided to kill each other in the Great Hall.»
That was your turn to grimace.
That little show cost you both a night of punishment in the Forbidden Forest, one of the scariest experiences of your life.
«You remember that, uh?»
«Pretty sure everybody does.»
«Good evening.»
You turned to see Drake walking up the stairs.
The smile disappeared from your face while Shachi sent the owl out.
«Hi Diez. Well, I’ll get going. Bye Shachi.»
The redhead waved at you and you started descending the tower, but right after you passed him, Drake stopped you.
«L/n, wait.»
«What?»
He hesitated.
«I just wanted to say that I’m sorry if we gave you the cold shoulder lately.»
Your forehead creased in confusion.
«Hum, okay?»
«I hope you’re fine after… last night.»
You blinked.
Is he suddenly my friend now?
«I’m good, I just need to clear my mind. No need for you guys to concern yourselves with me.»
Drake shook his head.
«Of course not, you already have friends looking out for you, that much is clear.» he adjusted his cape and turned to the view beyond the railing «Far be it from me to offer any unwanted advice, but when I need to clear my mind I often grab my broomstick and ride the wind for a while.»
You followed his gaze in the distance with a thoughtful frown.
«Yeah, I do that too.»
He nodded before resuming his path to the Owlery.
«See you around, L/n.»
You stayed back to look at the colourful leaves dancing in the wind.
It felt inviting, forgetting about everyone and everything, letting the air wipe away all your trouble for a minute.
Yes, I’ll take that raven’s suggestion this time. This day cannot get much worse anyway.
Of course you were wrong.
Chapter 21: A lovely Sunday pt.2
Notes:
This chapter was a little complicated to write and I’m not sure I managed to convey all the things that were happening at the same time, so please, let me know how it flows and if it’s understandable. Otherwise I’ll go back and edit it.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Today I fly.
The broomstick you used since your fourth year in Hogwarts was a Firebolt 3000, namely the fastest broom you could legally fly on at your age.
It was a present from your uncle. Given his position, the man wasn’t short in cash, and when you were selected for the Quidditch team (on your third year, after Pell graduated) he made sure you had the best product on the market, which he replaced immediately when you destroyed it two years later. That was typical of him; you never had much of his presence but you could always count on his expensive gifts. You would have preferred it the other way around, but he never asked about your opinion.
Speed was the essential characteristic of a seeker’s broom, so the Firebolt was the obvious choice. You were terrified of its acceleration at first, though you practiced enough and refined your reflexes to master it. Wind and water were your things after all, it was on land you were clumsy as hell.
All the broomsticks were kept in the depot across the Quidditch field and that’s where you were headed.
The weather was rapidly deteriorating, but you had played matches in worst conditions.
When you came close to the field, you heard the noise of the Gryffindor team in training and your heart dropped to your guts.
Damn it.
You could clearly distinguish Zoro bickering with Sanji, Nami scolding them, Ace’s laughter and Luffy’s yells.
Well, I may as well apologise for yesterday night.
You closed your eyes and took a deep breath before stepping onto the field.
The guys in red were flying around on their broomsticks. It looked like they were practicing dodging bludgers, at least until Zoro and Sanji got into a brawl, putting the training on hold.
«Oi, look! It’s the little troublemaker!»
You pouted at Ace’s call. Suddenly, the attention was diverted to you.
The freckled student glided to you and flipped upside down as you walked toward the depot.
«I heard you gave quite a show yesterday at the party! I’m kinda disappointed I missed it!» Ace chimed.
You grimaced, throwing a side glance at him.
«You always know what to say, don’t you, Portgas.»
«Eeeh? What did you do N/n*?» Luffy laughed, coming down beside you as well.
«Nothing, I did nothing.» you grumbled.
«Little Y/n! How do you feel today? You didn’t catch a cold, I hope!~» Sanji gushed, redirecting his attention to you and earning a grunt from Zoro.
You pressed your lips together and finally turned to face them.
The rest of the team was now gliding down as well.
Zoro was seemingly waiting for an answer, Bartolomeo didn’t look very happy to see you, and Nami was amused more than anything.
You glanced at each one of them and lowered your head with a sigh.
«Guys, I’m sorry.» you said, making the silence fall on the field «Because of my stupidity, I’ve put you all in a bad position yesterday. And you were only trying to help, which you didn’t have to, so I owe you a thank you and an apology. I promise I’ll explain the whole situation to my housemates.»
Your words were met with quiet surprise by the Gryffindor team, which wasn’t typical of them.
You took the chance to raise your face and turn to Bartolomeo.
«I’m sorry I bit you.»
He frowned in confusion before averting his eyes and rubbing the back of his head.
«Huh, well, that’s fine I guess.»
«Y/n, you’re so cute! Don't be sorry, it was our pleasure to take care of you!» Sanji grinned, his eyes literally sparkling.
«Tch, what a pain.» Zoro scoffed, but he was smirking too.
«Aww, little Y/n is now a responsible prefect!~» Ace mocked, flitting around you.
«I’m the one who should apologise.»
Sabo landed in front of you and leaped down his Nimbus.
«I pressured you to come to the party and then I basically got you drunk.» his gaze dropped «Now that I say it out loud, it sounds even worse. Sorry.»
You scoffed, your lips rapidly curling into a smirk.
«Please. Everything from coming to getting drunk was my decision. You flutter yourself if you think I’ll do anything just because you want me to.»
Sabo raised his eyes to you and you winked. He frowned, confused for a moment before smirking himself.
«Of course.»
You nodded and resumed your path.
«Well guys, if we’re done here, I’ll get my broom and leave you to your training. You’re gonna need it if you don’t want your asses to be kicked at the tournament.»
«Tch. Cheeky chipmunk.» Zoro chuckled.
As you walked away, Nami smiled.
«She’s getting more mature, isn’t she?»
«WE’LL BE THE ONE KICKING YOUR BUTT!» Luffy shouted behind you.
That Sunday, Dracule Mihawk was among the professors on duty and he was spending the day in his chambers, reading a heavy tome about the lost races of the ancient world.
Between ghosts, statues and armours, the castle had several ways to check on the students, so he only needed to step in if there was any report for danger or misconduct.
It had been a calm day, at least until that late afternoon, when a silver shark flew down his pipe and appeared in the fireplace.
Mihawk leaned the tome on his desk and turned to the patronus.
«Madame Sharley.»
«Professor Dracule.» the shark spoke in a deep feminine voice «According to my prediction, a big storm is approaching rapidly. It is my opinion that flying students will be at risk in about thirty minutes.»
Mihawk looked at the dark clouds thickening in the sky beyond his window, then he nodded.
«Very well, I’ll see that they all return to the castle by then. Thank you.»
«Woha, the wind is getting stronger!» Bartolomeo gasped when a gust pushed him against one of the rings.
«WAAAH, LUFFY!»
Despite being the one holding the quaffle, the young chaser quickly looked up at the shout.
Nami was flying several feet above the rest of the team and fell victim of a strong current that made her lose control of the broom.
Without a second of hesitation, Luffy dropped the ball and sprinted across the sky, quickly reaching her and grabbing her broomstick.
«Gotcha.»
He had to use all a little strength to fight against the wind but he managed to bring her and himself below the gust.
«T-Thanks.» Nami stuttered, her hands still gripped around his arm.
«Are you okay, Nami?» Sabo asked, circling around them «Maybe we should stop.»
«Team!»
Professor Jinbe’s call caught everyone’s attention as he flew over the field and gestured them to land.
«I have to suspend your training.» he announced once the students touched the ground «The weather is only getting worse for today, not suitable for flying anymore. Please, put your brooms away and go back to the castle.»
«Aw, bummer.» Ace groaned, heading to the changing room together with his mates.
«Hum, Professor?» Sabo interjected «I believe L/n is out flying right now. Maybe someone should warn her.»
«She is?»
Jinbe looked up to search the sky with his eyes, but no figure could be spotted against the dark clouds.
«With such conditions, she should be responsible enough to return by herself.»
He paused and glanced at the doubtful look on Sabo’s face.
«Of course.» he sighed «Your concern is commendable, Mr. Monkey, but you don’t have to worry. The gargoyles will be soon dispatched to take back any student still in the air.»
«Okay… thank you, professor.»
Sabo nodded and followed the rest of the team, quickly reaching Ace who was waiting for him.
«Don’t stress over it, brother!» he chimed, wrapping an arm around his shoulders «The gargoyles may be a bit rough, but they’re designed to protect the students. They’ll drag her back in no time.»
«Yeah, yeah.» the blond huffed «I just don’t think she needs that, today.»
Killer groaned in frustration as he re-read Kid’s assay for the third time that afternoon.
«That’s not nearly enough!» he grunted «I told you already you need to include the chapter on the Potter Age as well if you want to pass!»
«I don’t give a shit!» Kid snapped, snatching the parchment back «I’m sick about this bullshit assignment!»
«You have to do it if you don’t want to fail the class!»
«Can you two please cut it out?!»
They both turned to Smoothie with a snarl, but she glared at them unfazed.
«This is a study hall, so if you cannot be quiet you might as well leave!» she hissed.
Several other students were throwing subtle glares at them too.
Kid was about to retort, but he held back in surprise when he saw Killer shoving the books in his bag with a growl and marching out of the room. This wasn’t like him at all.
The redhead frowned, quickly grabbing his stuff to follow his best friend down the corridor.
«Oi, Killer!» he barked, shuffling after him «What the hell is wrong with you today?! You’ve been an asshole since this morning!»
«I’m not…!»
Killer hesitated, stopping on his steps to let out another groan and rubbing his thick bangs away from his face.
«What is it?» Kid grumbled, adjusting the bag on his shoulder.
The blond looked around to confirm no one else was in the narrow corridor before taking a breath.
«Fine. Something weird happened last night, after I left Vinsmoke at her House.»
Kid scoffed lightly at the name but didn’t interrupt him. He could see Killer’s mouth twitching in nervousness, and he was not easily unsettled.
«I was walking back when I heard… something behind me.»
«Something?»
«Yeah, I didn’t turn, I just… I suddenly got this splitting hiss in my head.» a droplet of sweat rolled down his temple at the memory «I don’t know why, but I suddenly felt a crushing homicidal intent, directed right at me. And I ran.»
«So it threatened you?»
«Yes. No. It didn't say anything, it just… it chased me until I got into the House.»
«…but you don’t know what it was.»
«No!»
«C’mon, man, it was probably some ghost pranking you. You know that damn Caribou likes to scare the stud–»
«It wasn’t a ghost!» Killer barked, his blazing gaze darting to him «We’ve been wandering the castle at night since out first year! Do you really think I would freak out because of a stupid ghost?!»
Kid was taken aback by his reaction, the words mushing in his mouth for once. Normally he wouldn’t have let anybody yell at him like that, but Killer was an exception. Whatever happened, he was seriously shaken.
«Oh. Okay, I guess you’re right.» the redhead muttered «We could go back tonight and investigate then.»
Killer took a deep breath, calming down a little. He was about to reply when Prof. Mihawk’s voice echoed through the corridors, traversing the whole school.
«Announcement for all the students, please pay attention. A strong storm is approaching, therefore all the flying activities are to be ceased immediately. Every student must return and stay within the walls of the castle within the next twenty minutes. The gargoyles will be dispatched to lead back incompliant students.»
The warning was repeated three times before dying off.
Kid smirked at his friend and slapped his shoulder playfully.
«Come on, let’s go watch the gargoyles dragging back the poor bastards who don’t make it in time! You’ll feel better.»
The wind was rapidly getting stronger and stronger.
Had that been any other day, you would have renounced and landed on one of the towers’ roof.
Not that evening though. On the contrary, you felt like a challenge against the wind was exactly what you needed to divert your mind. Still, you decided to fly close to the castle to be able to go back in case the weather would get too aggressive.
The gusts of wind were nothing you couldn’t handle so far, and you let your Firebolt slide through the currents, riding them as your hair and coat flew behind you.
Yes. I feel better already.
The sky was grey and gloomy but you didn’t mind. It matched your mood.
To you, flying was all a matter of flexibility. There was no point in fighting the wind, you were never gonna win.
No, you had to be brave enough to trust your instincts and follow the invisible path among the currents.
Up here, my mistakes will affect no one but myself. Up here, every action and its consequences belong only to me.
A particularly strong gust glanced you, and you let it flip your figure, wrapping your legs around the Firebolt and hanging upside down.
The strength of the wind finally matched yours, letting your broom hover in the sky.
Your muscles strained.
You knew that if you ceded even a little bit, the wind would have swallowed you at his mercy. Yet the effort felt incredibly liberating.
You released the grip of your hands and stretched your arms, letting out a long joyful yell.
Let this wind wipe away my turbulences. Just for today.
It lasted thirty seconds, then you felt better.
You gobbled down sips of cold air and squinted.
Okay. Time to go back before this turns serious.
With a quick movement, you rolled back on top of your broom and guided it above the current.
The wind was starting to become unforgiving. Quickly. Too quickly. It was pushing you higher and higher.
Ahh, some more of those wise life decisions that Katakuri appreciates.
«Fuck.» you cursed when your control trembled against the wind. It was throwing you against the castle too fast, landing was getting risky. You had to find the still spot between the gusts and be ready to use your magic to create a window of opportunity.
«Up!» you growled, putting all your effort in pointing the Firebolt to the sky.
It involved you fighting in vertical against the wind for a moment, which pushed you ahead and made you backflip, but you managed to keep your cold blood and direct the stick into a low cloud.
Thankfully, your instincts were right.
Once you emerged above the cloud, you found yourself in a much calmer zone.
Some sunbeams were still reflecting on top of the vapours, painting a pink dusk all around you.
The view took your breath away.
Wow. That’s beautiful.
Your eyes were drowning in that game of lights and colours, just above the thickening storm.
Then you spotted something on the horizon.
It was a black dot, far, far away from you, hovering on the clouds in a stillness that didn’t belong there.
You squinted, trying to put the figure on focus.
It seemed to be some sort of silhouette, loose hands hanging from its forms and slowly floating in the air.
What is that? It reminds me of something.
Suddenly, a terrifying freeze paralysed your throat.
Your eyes snapped open and your hand grabbed your neck.
It felt like icy waters had closed up above you. You couldn’t breath anymore.
Sleep, baby, sleep
Mommy loves you
Sleep, baby, sleep
And you will be reboooorn ~
The childish song was clawing at your brain as you struggled to get air.
WHATTHEFUCKISTHISWHATTHEFUCKISTHISWHATTHEFUCKISTHIS?!
The unbearable coldness was spreading to your chest now.
Am I dying?
Am I dying up here alone?
Sleep, baby, sleep
Daddy is…
Oh, where’s daddy?
The stream of unrestrained tears had frozen on your cheeks as your mouth helplessly gasped for oxygen.
I’m scared. I don’t want to. I want my friends.
Somehow, a last lucid thought flashed through your tortured mind.
«…I want you to find a memory. It has to be a very happy memory, the best you got. Focus on that image and the feeling it bears.»
You shut your eyes in pain, fingers spasmodically wrapping around your wand.
You were rolling, not sure if you were even on the broomstick anymore.
If I’m dying now, I just wish I could see my friends one last time.
Please.
I always mess up, but they always come for me and they don’t care if I’m so clumsy and dumb.
I just want to say thank you.
Perona, Reiju, Kid, Killer.
Heat, Wire, Cavendish.
Sabo, Ace, Zoro, Sanji.
Momonosuke.
Hell, even the twins, Katakuri, Trafalgar and Drake.
I want to go back to class with you guys.
Focus on them, focus on them, FOCUS ON THEM!
«EEAAAARGH!»
The surge of energy traversed your arm like a shockwave and a silver beam burst out of your wand.
You could hardly open your eyes to see it, but the coldness’ grip around you loosened for a second.
The invisible ice hands let go of your throat and you coughed and spat, wheezing as the air finally reached your lungs.
You suddenly realized your legs were still hanging from the broomstick, but you were rolling in the wind without any control.
OUTTA HERE, OUTTA HERE NOW!
With a snarl you shoved the wand between your teeth and grabbed the Firebolt with both hands, forcing it to dash towards the ground.
You dived into the cloud and the coldness finally disappeared along with the echoes in your head.
On the other hand, you fell right into the black storm.
Mihawk was climbing down the stairs of the West Tower when the pocket mirror heated up in his coat.
He pulled it out without slowing his steps, brushing his thumb against the phoenix image reflected on the surface and Marco’s face appeared in its place.
«Oi, Mihawk-yoi. I’ve seen the gargoyles leaving from the Southern tower.»
The Ravenclaw professor hummed.
«Yes, I’ve been notified. I’m going to assess the situation personally.»
Marco smirked.
«Such a perfectionist. I’m in the astronomy tower, so call me if you need assistance-yoi.»
Mihawk nodded and cut the call, finally reaching the ground floor.
«Professor Dracule!»
«What now?» he grunted, turning to see a Slytherin student rushing towards him with a worried pout «Miss Gekko. What is it?»
«It’s Y/n!» Perona panted, stopping right beside him.
«Miss L/n?»
«Yes! They say she’s out flying and she still hasn’t come back! The storm is really bad now…!»
Mihawk observed the girl for a moment before frowning and pinching the bridge of his nose.
«Of course.»
He let out a sigh before recollecting himself and heading to the exit.
«Don’t worry, miss L/n survived perils worse than this. Come on.»
However, when the wizard stepped outside he found a pretty messy situation.
The wind was sweeping the rain against the castle, but that didn’t scare the crowd away.
Dozens if not hundreds of students were gathered on the perimeter of the walls, most of them below the colonnades, yelling in excitement and pointing at the sky. Charlotte Katakuri and some of his siblings were growling in their attempts to push back Eustass and Kamazo, both of them somehow with brooms in their hands. If that wasn’t enough, some Ravenclaws and Gryffindors were yelling at each other, and they seemed close to get into a fight.
A deep frown settled between Mihawk’s eyebrows, but he didn’t have the time to intervene in any way before Perona grabbed his sleeve, brusquely earning his attention.
«Professor, right there! In the sky!»
The Ravenclaw turned his attention to the clouds.
Here you were, a small figure spinning in the storm, desperately trying to hold onto your broom and at the same time escape from the school of gargoyles flying all around you.
«YOU CAN DO IT, N/N!» Luffy shouted, jumping on the railing of the portico «SHOW THEM!»
«It’s dangerous, you idiot!» Usopp barked, tugging him down.
«She’s gonna fall!» Nami gasped.
«Don’t worry, the gargoyles are gonna grab her if she falls.» Ace reassured. His smile faltered though when he turned to Sabo «…right?»
«LET ME FUCKING GO, YOU DOUCHEBAG!» Kid yelled, pulling out his wand and pointing it at Katakuri «SHE’S ONE OF OURS!»
«Eustass, stop, she’s not in real danger!» Cavendish growled, his hand lowering on his wand.
«DO YOU FUCKING HAVE EYES, YOU MORON?!»
«Ah…! Professor Dracule is here!» Penguin suddenly gasped, turning to him.
Mihawk took a step forward and leaned the tip of his wand to his own throat, amplifying his voice so it could reach you across the storm, the powerful echo shutting down the students.
«MISS L/N. STOP RESISTING AND LET THE GARGOYLES TAKE A GRIP OF YOU. THEY WILL SLIGHTLY RUFFLE YOU UP, BUT THEY’LL LEAD YOU SAFELY BACK TO THE GROUND.»
Despite the raging rain and the lighting bolts thundering all around you, you heard professor Dracule’s words.
By that moment you were soaked, freezing, spun around by the wind, you couldn’t feel your fingers anymore, your guts were contorted by the nausea and a splitting headache had made your sight blurred.
You could only dart here and there to avoid the black shadows cutting through the air around you and hold onto the Firebolt for dear life.
«MISS L/N, PLEASE, DO AS I SAID.»
The gargoyles…? Okay… okay, that should be fine.
You did your best to stabilize the broomstick in the storm, finally allowing one of the shadows to come close. But that only collided with you and, being of pure rock, knocked the air out of your lungs.
A general gasp rose from the crowd when you almost lost your balance.
«Professor!» Perona choked, her nails clawing at his sleeve «Can’t they be a little gentler?!»
«It’s not in the gargoyles’ nature to be gentle with disobedient students.» Mihawk scoffed, eyes fixed on the scene in the sky.
Up there, you grit your teeth and spent a few horrible seconds at the wind’s mercy before managing to straighten your Firebolt again.
«I’M GOING!» Kid barked, taking advantage of Katakuri’s distraction to jump forward. However he was met with an invisible barrier and was bumped back with a groan.
«Stop right there, Mr. Eustass.» Mihawk hissed, wand pointed at him «No student moves. Miss L/n will be fine.»
But you were not fine.
You raised your blazing eyes at the gargoyles circling you, a low snarl rumbling in your throat.
After all that happened. After all that shit. Those bastards were gonna grab you and drag you down like trash?
You felt the rage burning inside you, a rage you hadn’t felt in years.
Fuck this.
When one of the living statues sprinted toward you again, you didn’t dodge. You pulled out your wand and casted your anger against it.
You weren’t even thinking of a spell, just shouted your rage at it with all your strength.
And the gargoyle exploded among red flares.
The silence fell onto the crowd for a moment before the students burst into a chorus of excited yells.
«YAAAASS!»
«YOU RULE LITTLE TROUBLEMAKER!»
«GO Y/N! SHOW THEM!»
«GIVE THEM HELL!!»
Mihawk’s eyes widened at the sight.
He was frozen for a moment before Katakuri stepped by his side.
«Professor.» he hissed.
In six years of Hogwarts, the wizard had hardly seen concern on the Charlotte’s face.
«Professor. No student should be able to do that, isn’t it?»
He had talked lowly not to be heard by others.
Mihawk’s gaze sharpened as he glanced at him. Because Katakuri was right.
Unfortunately though, that wasn’t his most impellent problem right now.
«P-Professor…» Perona murmured, her voice as thin as an autumn leaf «Something is off with the gargoyles…»
He frowned and returned his attention to the sky.
It was true.
The eyes of the living statues were now glowing in red. They were still circling you like vultures, but now…
Mihawk casted a quick spell to enhance his sight and saw their fangs and claws growing, their muzzles curling into terrifying snarls. He had never seen such behaviour before.
«Fuck.»
Perona stared at him in horror when she heard his curse.
The professor lost no time.
He waved his wand and his broomstick flew down the West Tower towards him as he turned to Katakuri.
«Charlotte!» he called «The gargoyles are under Donquixote Rocinante’s jurisdiction. Find him!»
He then ran across the yard, grabbing his broom mid-air with one hand and pulling out the pocket mirror with the other.
Reiju recognised the moment when Trafalgar Law leaned closer towards the window, the tension running through his usually calm features.
All the students in the library had gathered in front of the big windows to follow your struggle against the gargoyles.
Well, basically all the students in the school were either in the crowd outside or glued at some window by that moment.
Reiju was feeling really bad for you and could only hope you weren’t still in hangover, but when you made that monster explode something changed in Trafalgar’s attitude. Like his interested was suddenly caught.
She didn’t have much time to dwell on it though, because it was immediately clear something had changed in the gargoyles as well. And they weren’t trying to rescue you anymore.
«Where the hell are all the professors?!» she gasped, pushing some students out of the way to press her forehead against the glass.
If you had a crumble of lucidity left, you’d probably be asking yourself the same question.
Those things were trying to kill you.
Professor Dracule was wrong, if that even was his voice. You weren’t sure about anything anymore.
Throwing that spell had further drained your stamina.
There were at least eight gargoyles around you, their rocky wings fluttering in the violent storm, trying to get close enough to tear your flesh apart.
«L/N!»
Somehow, you thought you heard Dracule’s voice in your head once again. Probably another delusion.
«FLY, L/N! RUN FROM THE GARGOYLES!»
Is this a fucking joke?
But you were so tired you couldn’t even feel the sheer terror anymore. You were struggling just to keep your eyes open.
Your thoughts were so confused that you were hearing tons of students yelling your name, yelling to resist and fly or something.
This must really be a dream.
«Y/N, FOR FUCK’S SAKE, OPEN YOUR EYES!»
Kid…?
You frowned.
Fine.
Even if this is a dream, I’ll play my last trump card.
Not sure I can pull it off, but I have nothing to lose anyway.
You didn’t open your eyes.
Instead, you released whatever little resistance you had to keep your Firebolt in the air.
Crash landing it is then.
The move allowed you to avoid one of the creatures to bite your head off just in time.
The free fall quickly picked up speed, the friction of the wind soon becoming almost unbearable. The gargoyles wasted to time and flew down to the chase.
Yes. Come with me, motherfuckers.
The ground was coming at you at impossible speed. Your ears were filled with a myriad of different screams, thunders and the whistle of the wind.
It’s do or die now, Y/n. Whether this is a dream or not. You said you wanted to see your friends again.
Whatever my body has left to give. May it give it now.
Your fingers clenched around the broomstick, your teeth grinded together before you let out an inhuman scream.
Every inch of strength and magic you had, you put it in that effort and pulled up the broom one second before it crashed to the ground.
And, against all odds, with a pain that made you think your arms were going to detach from your body, your Firebolt darted up in the air, while the gargoyles slammed into the earth and were smashed into a million pieces.
The chaos that rose from the crowd enveloped you like a renewed storm, and you welcomed it by crumbling against your broom and throwing up below you.
Hugging the Firebolt, pale as a ghost, you blinked, trying to focus in the rain.
Something was moving towards you. New shadows. Red glowing eyes. Fangs and claws.
«THERE’S MORE OF THEM! MANY MORE!» someone shouted.
You felt your vision blurry again.
That’s it. I gave my all.
They cut through the storm, fast as demons, and in a moment they were on you.
You closed your eyes.
«Sit Subsisto Lapis!»
Three figures suddenly put themselves between you and the gargoyles, the powerful charms reverberating around you and entangling together, freezing the living statues on the spot.
You struggled to open your eyes and peer through the darkness.
Professor Dracule, Professor Fushichō and Professor Donquixote were flying in front of you, their wands unsheathed to keep the monsters at bait.
New yells came from below.
«YEEEESS!»
«THE PROFESSORS ARE HERE!»
Colourful beams trapped the gargoyles in their web.
«You won’t touch my student!» Rocinante growled, quickly neutralizing the threat alongside his colleagues.
That’s all nice and fun but…
You felt your grip slipping away and almost fell from the broom before a gentle but steady grip wrapped around your shoulders and pulled you against a warm torso to keep you balanced.
«Careful there, little troublemaker.»
You couldn’t raise your face to see who your rescuer was before everything turned dark.
Shanks got a hold of you just a second before you lost consciousness.
He quickly checked that you were breathing properly before sighing and glancing at the last gargoyles precipitating to the ground in pieces.
While Mihawk, Marco and Rocinante chose to freeze the statues, Doflamingo hadn’t been so forgiving with the leftovers.
The professor of Slytherin glided down beside Shanks, grabbing your broom to steady it.
«Let’s get her down.»
The two of them guided your Firebolt back to earth.
«Give her to me, Akagami.» Doflamingo coldly ordered when they touched the yard.
Shanks stepped aside and let the blond lift your small figure in his arms.
«She started big this year.»
Doflamingo didn’t seem amused.
«I’m taking her to the infirmary. Tell Rocinante I want to speak to him, once he’s done cleaning this mess.»
His voice wasn’t promising anything fun.
The redhead tilted his head.
«What, and you’re leaving me to deal with her Slytherin friends?»
«I’m leaving you to deal with all the students, actually.» Doflamingo glanced at the crowd lining the walls of the castle «Yes, I believe that’s all of them.»
Shanks let out an amused huff.
«Fine. Should we contact L/n’s uncle too?»
The other professor shrugged, already heading towards the entrance.
«Do whatever you want. If he ever wants to bother himself with his niece, he’ll know where to find her.»
Notes:
*nickname: Luffy calls you with his personal variant of your first name, like he does with almost anybody who don’t belong to his crew.
Chapter 22: A reluctant hero
Chapter Text
You were drowning.
It didn’t matter how hard you tried to suck some air into your lungs, the freezing grip around your neck was too tight to let anything through.
Your chest was burning up, your head was pulsating and the feminine chant echoed in your ear the entire time, reverberating through the icy water.
Sleep, baby, sleep
Mommy loves you
You clawed at the dead hand squeezing your neck.
“Someone, please…!”
Oh.
Where’s daddy?
Your eyes snapped open and you instinctively gasped a ragged breath of fresh air. Your fingers dug into the duvet as your chest rose and lowered frantically.
«Oh, Y/n!»
You blinked at the ceiling a couple of times and turned your head.
Chopper was standing beside your bed, some potion in his hooves and a relieved smile on his face.
«You woke up! How do you feel?»
«Like Kokoro ran me over with the Hogwarts Express.» you grimaced, rubbing your face with your hands.
A pale sun was illuminating the infirmary. Nobody else was there.
«Drink this.» Chopper chimed, leaving the glass on your nightstand «I’ll call Doctorine.»
Oh, wonderful. The old hag again.
You lay there without moving and closed your eyes to try and recall what happened.
The hangover. The storm. The gargoyles.
Did I fall off the broom?
«Little troublemaker!»
You winced at the voice and silently glared at the old woman walking in from her adjacent office. She sat on the mattress with a pleased grin on her wrinkly face.
«Two times in a row on the same weekend? This brings back memories from your second year.»
«Yeah, how nostalgic. If you could brief me about what happened and what day is today, that would be great.»
Kureha chuckled and crossed her long legs.
«You were attacked by the gargoyles. Apparently you thought it was a good idea to go around flying during a massive storm.»
You frowned.
«Aren’t the gargoyles supposed to protect the students?»
«Well, I don’t know the details, but it seems they turned a little… aggressive with you. It took five professors to get you back on land, and let me tell you, you were not in great shape.»
Five professors?!
You grimaced.
«You’re already as good as new. The only reason I kept you here this long is because you needed to sleep you intoxication off.»
«Intox…?»
Your eyes widened and flicked to hers. She had a malicious grin plastered over her lips.
«Don’t worry, I didn’t mention it to the professors. Although it will add to your little debt here.»
The golden parchment appeared by her shoulder and a floating quill scribbled something down.
«I’ve never had such a fruitful student. If you manage to finish your school years alive, you’ll be a useful connection out there.»
«Of course. That would be a real pity if I don’t make it.» you grumbled, slowly sitting up.
She shrugged and stood.
«Hey, all the good investments include some kind of risk. You’re free to go now.»
Kureha may have been an ancient bitch but she surely knew what she was doing. A little dizziness aside, you were fine. No headache, no soreness, no nausea.
«Is it Monday already?»
Chopper hopped towards you carrying your bag under his little arm.
«Yes. It’s noon, all the students are having lunch in the Great Hall.» he offered you your belongings «I took the liberty to ask your friend Perona and she prepared this for your afternoon lessons.»
You took it from his hooves and looked inside. Thankfully, Perona had also thought of including a change of clothes.
«Thanks, Chopper, that’s super nice of you!»
«Ugh, it’s not like your compliments mean anything to me!~»
«Can I use the bathroom?»
«Sure. Oh, many of your friends stepped by yesterday. Some also wanted to spend the night but Doctorine sent them away. I think they didn’t come now only because we promised you’d join them for lunch.»
«I see.» you mumbled, climbing off the bed and placing the fresh clothes on it «Do you remember who came?»
«Huh, let’s see… Perona, Eustass and his crew, that Slytherin guy with long wavy hair, Momonosuke… Sanji’s sister, Luffy, Zoro, Nami, Sanji, Usopp, Bartolomeo… Sabo and Ace, and then, hum… oh, of course, Katakuri!»
He listed the students through the door of the bathroom as you freshened up the best you could. That last name had you freeze for a second, the unwelcomed memories of Katakuri scolding you forcefully flowing in your mind.
«Oh, and that Ravenclaw guy with the x-shaped scar on his chin dropped by very late. It was actually already past the students’ curfew, so he wasn’t allowed in.»
You frowned at your own image in the mirror.
Drake? Why would he come and see me?
You shook the thought away and finished up quickly, walking back into the infirmary to get dressed.
«Thank you very much Chopper. Do you, hum… do you maybe know if my uncle called?»
The little creature tilted his head aside for a second.
«Sorry, not that I know of.»
«It’s fine, thanks anyway.»
You didn’t allow your mind to linger on the subject. You had risked your life before at Hogwarts and he never called, so why would you still ask?
«You should be fine, but if you have nausea, please come back here.» Chopper continued as you gobbled down the potion he left for you. It was disgusting as always.
«Okay. Thank you again, doctor Chopper!»
«Mph! Don’t think that I’m flattered just because you called me “doctor”!~»
You hurried all the way to the Great Hall and stopped right beside the entrance.
The lively voices of hundreds of students eating together and the sounds of cutlery hitting the plates was echoing through the open doors.
The memories from the day before were blurry, but you remembered tons of people witnessing your pathetic attempts to escape the gargoyles. That must had been the hell of a show.
Maybe I can sneak in and move alongside the walls until I reach Slytherin’s side. Lunch is always chaotic after all.
You took a deep breath and finally slid inside the hall.
Unfortunately for you, some idiot had dropped a stool right around the corner, and you were too busy making sure there was enough hair covering your face to notice it. So you stumbled and fall miserably with a loud “SHIT!” that basically caught everybody’s attention.
I hate my life.
The entire Great Hall got quieter all of a sudden, the only exception being Professor Akagami chiming “Oh, she’s back!” from the professors’ table.
For a long second, you considered just staying where you were, face down on the floor for the rest of your life. Then, with a groan, you slowly lifted yourself and pushed your hair back, lips tight, eyes still on the ground and cheeks as red as a tomato.
«N/N!»
Luffy’s shout startled you.
The boy had literally jumped over his table, his big elastic grin directed right at you.
«YOU’RE BACK!»
«I–»
«FOR THE LITTLE TROUBLEMAKER!» Ace yelled, standing up beside his brother. Then he slipped two fingers in his mouth and emitted a loud whistle.
As if that was the cue they were waiting for, most of the Gryffindors stood as well and choir of cheers and clapping enveloped you.
«WHOOOAH!»
«YOU RULE, Y/N!»
«OUR HERO!»
What the…?
«Hey, SHE’S OUR HERO!» Cavendish suddenly yelled, pointing his fingers at the Gryffindors from his place.
This triggered the chaos of cheers to extend to the Slytherin table, with most of the students jumping up and giving you a standing ovation themselves. The Hufflepuffs followed immediately after.
The awkward silence by Ravenclaw side was interrupted by Reiju’s solitary clapping. Several of her housemates turned to her with a frown, but Kaya and Tashigi timidly imitated her, and when Drake eventually did the same, many others joined.
As for you, you only wanted the floor to open up and swallow you whole.
Feeling your cheeks burning like hell flames, you kept your head low and quickly walked to your table, trying to conceal yourself among the other Slytherins.
«Wow, you really suck at being a hero.» Perona snickered, scooting over to let you sit.
«Shut up.»
«Enough!»
Principal Whitebeard stood and clapped his hands once, effectively cutting down the loud wave of enthusiasm.
You clicked your tongue and peered at him.
«While I’m very proud to see all of you giving such a warm welcome back to your fellow student, I must remind you that the stunt miss L/n pulled yesterday was not only against the rules, but also very dangerous. I hope none of you will be dumb enough to imitate her. My initial intention was to take fifty points away from Slytherin, but since the gargoyles did act beyond their limits, I’ve decided to cut the punishment down to twenty-five points. I should also inform you that the issue with the gargoyles has been solved. Now, please, everybody back to your meal and then off to class!»
Despite his scolding and the punishment, you were silently grateful to the Principal for tuning down the situation.
As the boiled fish materialized in front of you, your stomach grumbled and you dived in, trying not to meet anyone’s gaze. Thankfully, the usual chaos of lunch spread through the hall and everyone went back to their business.
«How do you feel, Y/n?» Cavendish asked.
He was sitting in front of you, so it was kinda hard to avoid his eyes.
«I’m okay.» you mumbled with your mouth full «I was a little sick yesterday, so the gargoyles pushing me around might have been too much.»
«It was scary to watch.» Perona pouted «They went at you like they wanted to rip you apart!»
You shrugged, still chewing at your food.
«I hardly remember that part. I’m sure it wasn’t that bad.»
«It looked pretty bad.» Page One commented from his seat beside Cavendish «Even Katakuri looked upset.»
«Hehe… he was holding Eustass and Kamazo back. They were gonna come up there and save you.» Mikita smirked from your other side, elbowing you in the ribs.
You stopped chewing for a moment and glanced to the opposite side of the table.
Kid and Killer were sitting with their usual crew, talking to each other and minding their own business.
«What a lucky girl.» Mikita continued with a sigh «Most girls here have a hard time finding a decent guy, and you have two at your disposal.»
You scoffed.
«What? Again with this nonsense? I’ve told you, this is a team kind of thing, we got each others’ back. They’re my buddies.»
«Sure.»
«I’m telling you…!»
«Okay lads, time for some learning!» Whitebeard roared from the professors’ table.
The students started leaving the Great Hall in flocks and you followed your comrades around the table.
«I’m sick about all this teasing.» you were still huffing to the girls «You’re only going to make things weird between me and my friends, so cut it out please.»
«Fine, fine.»
Speaking of which.
You could still distinguish Kid and Killer’s back among the tide of students and you started pushing through the crowd to reach them.
I still have to thank them!
«Guys!»
«Oi, Y/n!»
Someone grabbed the sleeve of your uniform, making you turn.
Ace and Sabo had cut through the mess and were both grinning at you.
«How are you doing?» Sabo asked.
«We tried to visit yesterday but the old hag kicked us out.» Ace added.
«I’m fine, thanks. Chopper told me you came by. Sorry, but I need to…»
You scanned the corridor outside the Great Hall but Kid and Killer were gone already. Beyond the exit, the tide of students divided in different flows according to which class they were taking.
The two brothers escorted you to the hallway and guided you to a corner for a small break.
«It was amazing what you did yesterday!» Ace chimed «That hex you threw at the gargoyle to make it go BOOM! Where did you learn that?»
You cocked an eyebrow.
«What? Listen, I hardly remember the whole thing. I think I was still hangover from Saturday.»
«Again, sorry about that.» Sabo grumbled.
«Hey, stop apologising.» you smirked, playfully hitting him with your bag.
The blond chuckled before a serious note entered his black eyes.
«So you don’t remember how you evaded the gargoyles?»
«Kureha told me the professors came to my rescue. The sole idea makes me cringe.»
«Oh yeah.» Ace laughed «Man, Doflamingo was piiiiissed.»
Sabo was about to add something but Heat stepped beside you, his usual pout seemingly a little embarrassed for having to interrupt you.
«Hum, Y/n? Sorry but we’ll be late for Care for Magical Creatures.»
It always looked funny to you how the wizard towered on basically everyone around and still tried to appear smaller, with his slumped shoulders and the hands tucked into his pockets.
You smiled at him.
«Hi Heat! Sure. Sorry guys, we can talk later, okay?»
You waved at the two and followed your housemate outside.
«You look alright.» Heat said after a while that you were walking side by side.
You had always enjoyed his presence, especially when you felt troubled about something. He didn’t talk much but he was steady and calm.
«I am. I feel like everybody is making a big deal out of it.»
Heat just hummed.
«I need to thank Kid and Killer. For Saturday night and yesterday. I was told they tried to help me again.»
His sad eyes trailed down to you for a moment before moving back on the way.
«Of course they did. You’re one of us.»
His words brought an inevitable smile to your face.
«Thank you. I just… I don’t like when people get entangled into my bullshit, you know?»
Heat seemed to consider it for a while before nodding slightly.
«Yes, you are a little unlucky.»
You blinked before bursting in laughter.
«The understatement of the year!»
Care for Magical Creatures proceeded smoothly. Prof. Inuarashi taught you some techniques to spot the presence of thestrals in the woods with a few practical examples.
Once in a while you shot glances towards Trafalgar and Drake but they never looked your way. You noticed that Trafalgar’s scowl was darker than usual though.
When you told Perona, later than afternoon, she huffed.
«Well, I’m not surprised. This morning, after Charms, Professor Donquixote asked to speak with him in private, and he didn’t look happy.»
You frowned.
«Donquixote Rocinante? Isn’t he like his adoptive father?»
«Whatever. I’m telling you, I’ve rarely seen that Donquixote this serious. He was weird for the whole lesson, he even yelled at Niji for making fun of some Ravenclaw nerds.»
«Come on, Rocinante never yells!»
«Believe me, I think he was seething. And Trafalgar has something to do with it, apparently.»
«Mh.» you shrugged «Maybe it’s a family thing. Something else happening while I was out?»
«Except everybody talking about it? Yes, we all sucked at practicing our Patronus. That fake dementor is damn scary, I can’t even imagine how it would be facing a real one.»
A real dementor?
The image of a black cape floating among the clouds flashed in your mind, a shooting pain suddenly splitting your head for a second.
«Fuck!» you gasped, grabbing your forehead.
«Y/n?»
You stopped on the stairs towards the study hall, leaning against the wall as the headache faded away.
What was that?
«I’m fine.» you murmured «Just… maybe I’m still a little weak.»
Perona eyeballed you before grabbing your arm and pulling you ahead.
«Come on, you’ve got a lot of homework to do.»
You didn’t manage to talk to Kid and Killer until that night, when everybody was back to Slytherin quarters.
The two of them, together with Heat and Wire, were hanging out by the biggest table doing the Everyflavour beans challenge.
Your self-preservation instinct urged you to stay in your dorm to avoid Katakuri but you decided to try and be brave. You had to face him, sooner or later.
Sneaking through the various groups in the common hall, you finally reached the small crew and slapped a smile on your face.
«Hi guys!»
The four big wizards turned to you, with Wire still trying to spit an unfortunate bean into a napkin.
«Y/n.» Killer smiled «It’s good to see you. How are you doing?»
«I’m fine. I wanted to thank you for stopping by the infirmary yesterday.» you hesitated «And for trying to help me against the gargoyles. And for Saturday night.»
Killer swallowed a chuckle but Kid only offered you a grunt, his attention occupied with mixing the beans.
«Nah, don’t worry. We didn’t do much, really.» Killer shrugged.
«I wouldn’t say so.» your eyes trailed to the redhead, even if he wasn’t looking at you «I’ll have your sweater washed and back to you as soon as possible.»
He snorted, picking a couple of beans from the bowl.
«Whatever.»
His irritated demeanour gave a slight pang to your chest.
That’s right, he didn’t want to hang out at the party either. He’s probably done with my shit.
Your smile fell as an awkward silence spread around the table. Heat and Wire glanced at Kid but he stubbornly kept his eyes on the candies.
«Well then… see you around.»
You turned with a quiet sigh and headed to the stairs.
Killer groaned slightly and snatched the bowl away from Kid’s hands.
«Oi…!»
«Wait, Y/n!»
You glanced over your shoulder and he shook the beans in front of you.
«Pick one. We’re up for who’s going to get the diarrhoea one.»
You frowned, raising your cheeky smirk at him.
«Inviting.»
«What, too sophisticated for it, sprite?»
Your eyes flicked to Kid.
He was finally looking at you, his arms crossed and his painted lips curled in a half-grimace.
Without replying, you dived your hand into the bowl, grabbed a bean and threw it in your mouth.
Kid matched your challenging gaze until your eyes watered and your features crumbled in disgust.
«Holy shit! Napkin! Napkin now!»
You coughed and gagged while shuffling against the table and grabbing a tissue.
«Wait, she got it at her first try?» Wire asked.
«Well, there is some other nasty stuff in there…» Heat mumbled.
«Nah, that’s the reaction of someone who got it.» Killer smirked.
«YES I FREAKING GOT IT!»
Kid burst in laughter, heavily patting your back as you spat out that abomination and possibly your entire esophagus.
«You never disappoint, Y/n!»
The next couple of days proceeded without any incident, for once.
When you met Katakuri in the hallway, he only asked you if you were fine and to be more careful in the future, which was kind of relieving.
Kid’s mood seemed back to normal and he was laughing with you without any awkwardness. Plus none of the Ravenclaws gave you shit. On the contrary, Trafalgar was somehow always ending on the other side of the room when you were sharing a class.
Everything was fine.
You even started to relax a little.
Maybe that was just a difficult first week, and now you could really concentrate on having a plain, peaceful year. The Triwizard Tournament was going to take a lot of pressure from you anyway, all the attention was going to revolve around the champions.
You were in a good mood that Wednesday afternoon as you opened your book of Ancient Runes. As always, Reiju sat beside you.
«Hi Rey. How are things in Ravenclaw’s?»
«Quiet as always.» she smiled, setting her book and notepad on the desk.
Despite her usual smile, though, her features looked slightly tensed.
You peered at her face as she leafed through her notes. Maybe it was just your imagination.
«Good afternoon.» Nico Robin greeted entering the classroom «Today we’re going to resume our study on Parseltongue. Please, go to page forty-four.»
You focussed to the lesson, scribbling down some notes here and there. It wasn’t that bad in the end, a nice, simple life as a Hogwarts student.
«…so whenever you see this combination of runes on a seal, you can assume it’s Parseltongue and try to remove the charm by hissing the word “Rellase”»
You hummed, tracing idly circles on the page with the quill.
«Does she mean “Release”?» you lowly mumbled.
Suddenly, Reiju’s fingers dug into your thigh, making you jump on your seat.
«Hey! What the–»
«Stay quiet, don’t move, keep your eyes down.» she quickly whispered without moving her gaze from the book.
«What?»
You glanced at her but she shook her head slightly.
«Trust me. Do as I said.»
What the hell?
Your eyebrows wrinkled in confusion but you moved your focus back on the inked pages and remained quiet.
Why can’t people just be normal for once?
As the lesson went by, Reiju seemed to relax a little. It took several minutes for her grip on your leg to loosen though.
«Very well, we’ll start from here next week.» professor Nico finally announced, dismissing the class.
The students started to collect their stuff and leave.
You turned to Reiju with a questioning look.
«What was that?»
Her irises darted to Nico Robin and she stood up, urging you to do the same.
«Come, I’ll explain outside.»
Still frowning, you threw the book in your bag and walked with her to the door.
«Miss L/n?»
The professor approached you with a smile and you turned, an eyebrow already rising.
«Yes?»
«May I have a word with you in my office, please?»
«Hum… am I in trouble for something?»
«You didn’t break any rule during my class, at least that I know of, so I wouldn’t say so.»
Most of the students had left the room by then.
Reiju lingered by the door, her teeth tormenting her lower lip.
«Actually, professor, we have… a study session we should get to.»
Your eyes widened at her.
She was not the type to protest a professor’s request, let alone lie.
«I’m sure miss L/n will be able to catch up.» Nico Robin tilted her head and headed outside.
You followed her and patted Reiju’s shoulder while passing by.
«Don’t worry, she won’t eat me.»
The pinkette looked at you, defeated, and nodded.
Nico Robin’s studio was a neat room up in the West Tower, filled with libraries of old tomes and ancient maps hanging on the walls. A beautiful reproduction of the solar system replaced the chandelier, floating idly a few inches from the ceiling.
«Sit down, please.» she said, moving to a small stove «Would you like some tea?»
«I’m good.» you muttered, dropping on the chair facing the main desk «Professor, why am I here?»
The woman served herself a cup of fuming tea and finally turned to you.
«Miss L/n, have you ever been tested for proficiency in Parseltongue?»
«What? No… not that I remember.»
«Does she mean “Release”?»
Your eyes snapped open and your gaze flicked on her.
«Wait…! Are you saying I’m freaking hissing?!»
Nico Robin hummed and finally sat at the desk in front of you.
«“Openeeng.” What did I just say?»
«Er… opening?»
She rested her chin on her knuckles.
«Unfortunately I’ve only learnt a few key words, so I can’t be sure, but it seems to me you’re a Parseltongue user.»
«But I…! I’ve never talked with a snake!»
«Have you ever met a snake?»
«…good point.»
The ravenette relaxed on her chair.
«Children coming from pureblood families normally get tested before starting at Hogwarts, this is the rule. However, we know your uncle… let’s say he takes rules more as guidelines.»
Your gaze dropped on your hands.
Suddenly, you were feeling cold and confused.
«No, I wasn’t tested.»
«I see. I’ll speak with Principal Edward and see if we can call Miss Hancock to arrange a test here in the school.»
She scribbled something down on a pad. That may have been your cue to leave but, for some reason, you found yourself glued to your seat.
Nico Robin raised her brown eyes to you.
«Is everything okay?»
You hesitated.
«Isn’t… Parseltongue associated with black magic?»
She blinked, then a softer smile relaxed her lips.
«There was this stigma in the past, yes. But nowadays a growing number of people sees it for what it actually is: a powerful, rare tool.»
Despite the air in your lungs still feeling heavy, her words managed to calm you down a little. You even attempted a smile.
«If you say so.»
The witch nodded and closed her notepad.
«I’ll let you know about the test. And do not worry too much, it is not that uncommon as one may think. People who know Parseltongue just prefer to keep it a secret.»
…which doesn’t help with the stigma thing.
«All right, thank you, Prof. See you at dinner.»
«Bye, Y/n.»
Shanks entered the meeting room waving his hand in front of his careless grin.
«Sorry, sorry, I’m late.»
He dropped into the golden armchair and let out a satisfied hum.
«You don’t really seem to mean your apology.» Mihawk caustically observed from the black spot beside him.
«Aw, come on, Hawkey! What would such a powerful bunch of wizards need me for anyway?»
Jinbe let out a sigh and Doflamingo’s lips curled upside down.
«Enough, lad.» Whitebeard ordered, leaning onto his desk «The sooner you focus, the sooner we’ll be finished here.»
«Principal Edward, why did you call us in here for? Did something happen?» Jinbe asked.
Whitebeard looked at the four wizards and his eyes stopped on Doflamingo before he nodded.
«I want to speak about L/n D. Y/n.»
The Slytherin professor turned his full attention to him.
«What about her?»
«Miss Nico informed me she’s probably a Parseltongue user.»
After a few seconds of silence, Shanks huffed.
«So? Is anyone here really surprised? It’s obvious we have a couple of students entangled with destiny in this generation, and one is Y/n.»
«True.» Whitebeard confirmed «And this is why I want to perform a scan on her.»
«A scan?» Doflamingo frowned «I’m sorry, I assume we will perform a scan on Monkey D. Luffy as well, then? There were just as many signs for him as there were for L/n.»
«Monkey D. Luffy is definitely chosen by fate, but he has not being training with Miss Riku for years because of dark nightmares.» Jinbe observed.
«Please!» Shanks scoffed «No one here really believes Y/n is evil, right?»
«Of course not.» Whitebeard replied «However, her upbringing is a little… shady.»
«Whose isn’t.» Doflamingo snickered, earning a glare from the principal.
«We postponed it long enough.» the old wizard stated «It’s time to make sure Y/n’s path isn’t a dark one.»
Chapter 23: Ravens spill beans
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
That morning, you marched into the Great Hall with messy hair and bags under your eyes but you didn’t head to Slytherin’s table.
A couple for third-years rushed out of your way when they saw your face and you walked right along Ravenclaw’s corner, earning several perplexed glances.
You reached the small group of girls having breakfast on the far end of the table and just as Kalifa opened her mouth to comment, you heavily dropped your bag to her feet and shut her up with a glare. Then you turned to Reiju.
«I think we should talk.»
The pinkette briefly closed her eyes as to prepare herself, then stood up to face you.
«You’re right, we should. But not here.» she murmured.
«Why not? I’m sick of all this secrecy.»
Someone touched your shoulder from behind and you turned.
Drake dropped his hand and cleared his voice.
«I’m sorry to step in, L/n, but–»
«What the hell do you want? Are you involved in this?» you blurted not even letting him finish.
Yes, maybe you were being a bitch, but you had lost your sleep over this Parseltongue thing, and you were pissed. A person you considered one of your best friends knew something like that about you and didn’t say anything? And how would she know something even you had no idea of?
Drake’s gaze shifted to the table and met half a dozen of curious eyes following the scene.
«As a matter of fact, he is.» Reiju stated.
You blinked at her.
«What?»
«Y/n.» she muttered, nudging you away «Let’s go somewhere to talk.»
You snatched your arm away.
«Does he know about me too?!»
«My, you really do like to make a scene.»
Your head jerked towards the smooth voice that interrupted you, flames darting from your eyes.
Trafalgar Law was watching you with his bored expression, face tilted to the side and arms crossed.
«Oh, look, it’s one of my favourite people coming to stick his ass in someone else’s business!» you spat.
He smirked and Reiju grabbed your arm again.
«Y/n, please! You’ve a right to be upset but I promise, we’ll tell you everything! Today before dinner. Meet us at six in Moaning Myrtle’s bathroom.»
Your nose twitched.
«Fine.»
The rest of the day passed by slowly and tediously.
You burnt all the ingredients necessary to prepare your potion, which led to Perona banishing you from the cauldron. At Charms, Prof. Donquixote was a little too nice, even complimenting you when you accidentally made Penguin’s hat explode. And during Herbology you were so frustrated you threw your mandrake in Gambia’s face and Prof. Nekomamushi sent you out of the greenhouse.
«What the hell is wrong with you today?» Perona asked as your Slytherin group walked back to the castle for lunch.
«What are you talking about? She’s on fire today!» Kid laughed.
You groaned and adjusted the bag on your shoulders.
«Nothing, I slept funny.»
«Was it because of Prof. Nico calling you in her office yesterday?»
Your eyes flicked to Killer.
He was waaay too perceptive for his own good. Some day it was going to get him in trouble.
«No, that was fine. What about you guys, instead?» you quickly tried to diverge the topic «Did you come back to our quarters just before dawn today?»
Kid and Killer exchanged a rapid look.
«How do you know?»
«I couldn’t sleep so I was downstairs reading.»
Kid shrugged.
«Killer thought he saw a monster nearby Ravenclaw tower the other day, so we went checking.»
«A monster?»
«I never said monster!» the blond protested.
«Right, right, sorry.» Kid wickedly grinned at you and waved his hands mimicking a spastic ghost «An oooominous voice!»
That at least made you chuckle.
«I didn’t…! Bah, whatever.» Killer grunted, tilting his head so his hair would hide his face.
«And did you find anything?» Perona asked with bright eyes. Ghost stories were always her favourite.
«Nope.» Kid replied «The voices must be in his head.»
«It wasn’t a voice!» the other snapped «It was a hissing, okay? And I didn’t imagine it.»
«Well, whatever it was, it was gone when we went back there.»
Perona puffed her cheeks in disappointment and Killer shrugged it off.
«Anyway, Y/n, since we’re done with class today, I’m going to help Kid training for tomorrow’s duels. Do you want to join us?»
The redhead frowned at his best friend’s proposal but you shook your head.
«Thank you but I got plans.»
Perona quirked her eyebrow.
«What kind of plans?»
«I, hum…»
You hesitated as all eyes curiously shifted to you.
You still hadn’t mentioned anything about the Parseltongue incident to your friends. Not because you wanted to keep it from them, on the contrary, you really needed their opinion and support on the matter. But every time you tried to bring up the topic, it felt like a heavy burden squeezed to your chest. It was simply hard to talk about it.
«I convinced Reiju to tell me why she’s being so weird lately.» you eventually muttered.
Not the whole truth but not a lie either.
«Oh.» Perona blinked «So you’re going to hang out with her?»
«I guess.» you nodded.
Kid had already lost interest and started nagging Killer about their upcoming training.
«I won’t be long.» you assured the pinkette, who appeared a little upset she was left out «I’ll update you asap.»
Moaning Myrtle’s bathroom was fairly far from Slytherin’s dungeon.
You dropped your school stuff in the dorm and only kept your wand, since it was stupid for any wizard to go anywhere without it.
The corridor leading to the girls’ lavatory was desert at the moment, like most of the time.
The ghost of Moaning Myrtle had actually trespassed during the Potter age, but the place still retained its sinister charm.
«Y/n!»
Despite being in a better mood now, you still scowled when you saw both Drake and Law waiting for you with Reiju right outside the lavatory.
Drake had his usual serious expression, while Trafalgar was leaning against the entrance looking like he didn’t really want to be there.
Well, that makes the two of us.
«What are they doing here?» you grumbled, stopping in front of Reiju.
«Oh, they have a lot of explaining to do. Don’t you, boys?»
Law scoffed, still glowering at the opposite wall like it had done him a terrible wrong. Drake, on the other hand, lowered his face and nodded.
«It’s true. Please, Y/n, come inside.»
You observed perplexed as the two guys walked into the bathroom.
«This is not a Ravenclaw ambush, isn’t it?»
Reiju smirked.
«Did I lose all the faith you held in me?»
Before you could answer though, she followed her housemates inside.
You stayed still for a few moments before muttering a low “what the hell” and joining them.
Long before, the bathroom had been turned into a memento of the old age. The walls were filled with the names of wizards and muggles that died against the Dark Lords, carved or painted on the tiles. Fresh flowers adorned the ancient sinks and floating candles endlessly navigated the penumbra of the room.
It was quite suggestive for the freshmen to visit but it also felt like a haunted place.
«So, why are we here?» you asked, dodging the small candles slowly levitating around.
«Because of this.» Drake replied, resting his hand on the snake-headed sink.
You frowned.
There was a black writing on top of it, written in bigger letters compared to all the others.
“Here was the entrance of the Chamber of Secrets.
May this door never open again.”
You frowned.
Slytherin bullies often dragged younglings from other houses there at night and pretended to hiss Parseltongue words to open the chamber, scaring them to death. Another reason why the place wasn’t very popular.
«Is this a sick joke because apparently I’m a Parselmouth now? How did you know about it anyway?» you hissed.
Drake shook his head.
«It’s not a joke. The magic that allowed Parseltongue to open these doors has been banished and the entrance it’s sealed.»
«Oh yeah? How can you be sure, did you try?» you asked sarcastically.
There was a short silence during which the Ravenclaws briefly glanced at each other, then Drake’s gaze returned to you.
«Yes.»
Your eyes widened.
«Wait, what?»
«L/n, I… I’m a Parselmouth. Just like you.»
You noticed something weird in his last words and Reiju shuddered.
«W-Wait, did you just… did you hiss to me?»
«Yes, and I know you understood.»
You blinked and took a step back.
What the hell is going on here?!
«Hold on…»
Suddenly, a flashback cut through your mind. You raised your finger and pointed it at him.
«You… you did it before! At the party!»
Drake nodded again.
«Yes. I’m sorry I tricked you.»
Your face jerked towards Reiju.
«So this is how you knew! He told you and you didn’t tell me anything!»
«No!» she immediately blurted «He didn’t tell me. Well, not back then at least.»
«He told me.»
Law finally stepped forward.
He stared at you with sharp eyes, almost like he was challenging you.
«I was the one that asked him to test you.»
You stared back at him, trying to make sense of all those information dropping on you in such a short time.
«You? Why? What the hell is your problem with me?!» you then turned to Drake with a growl «And what about you, do you just go around hissing to people? Do all of your bird-mates know about your little secret?!»
Drake remained calm, like he expected you to freak out.
«No, only Law. Well, you and Vinsmoke know too now. And I know it’s pretentious to ask, given the circumstances, but I would appreciate for it to remain a secret.»
«You… awofhirbfdiuans!» you groaned in incredulous frustration, hands messing with your hair.
Law looked at Reiju.
«Did we break her?»
She sighed and moved closer.
«Y/n, I’m sorry. When you asked me to keep an eye on Trafalgar, Drake overheard us. This is how he and Law started to keep an eyes on us in return and I got stuck in between.»
«Then why didn’t you just tell me?!» you snapped, hands snatching away from your head.
«To be precise, I was watching you since before. Drake only agreed to help after you two started to behave suspiciously.» Law clarified before sending a side-glance to his mate «…he was also hard to convince.»
Drake glared back at him.
«And I regret going along with it.» he mumbled.
«Why, why would you spy on me?» you barked, now fully turning to Law «Again, what the hell is your problem? Did I do anything to you? Or it’s just all Slytherin that you hate and I was simply easy to target?»
He rolled his eyes, not at all intimidated by your flaming expression.
«Believe me, L/n, you’re not an easy target. Always surrounded by your Slytherin bodyguards, then your Gryffindor bodyguards… you’re oblivious as hell so you probably didn’t even notice, but I got Kamazo and Monkey breathing on my neck more than once. Not to mention these two.» he gestured to his housemates with a displeased frown.
«I don’t hear you explaining your shit, Trafalgar.» you hissed, hand moving to the pocket of the wand.
His golden eyes followed your movement and a smirk curved his lips.
«Oho, turning aggressive, I see. What you think you can do? You’re outnumbered, and even if you weren’t, you’re no match to me.»
His words made your blood boil.
«I’ll take my chances.»
«Y/n, please!» Reiju cried, grabbing your arm «This is not why we’re here. We’ll explain you everything!» she then sent an icy glare to Law «Haven’t you already done enough, Trafalgar?»
The ravenette’s smirk turned into a grimace and he gritted his teeth.
«Fine. I’ll tell you why you, L/n.»
Your fingers had already wrapped around the wand into your uniform but you stopped.
Nobody talked for a few seconds. Then Law finally let out a long breath.
«I believe someone will try to open the Chamber of Secrets again, and I believe it will be you.»
Sengoku scanned the sheet once again before raising his eyes on the two witches in front of him.
«So old Whitebeard wants to stick his nose into the future now? I thought he wasn’t interested in such things.»
Nico Robin simply smiled.
«Hogwarts’ only interest is keeping the Magic community safe.»
«Oh, of course.» Sengoku smirked, handing her the paper «And yet you don’t specify what you’re looking for. Only that you want access to the Hall of Prophecy.»
«We periodically review the prophecies to make sure none of our students represent a risk to others or themselves.» Madame Sharley replied.
«As all new prophecies are submitted to the Ministry, it would be desirable to work together.» Robin added «I’m sure you’d already know if there was someone to keep an eye on.»
«Sure, sure.»
The wizard pressed a button on his desk and a little trill echoed in the corridor beyond. Not long after, a tall brunette stepped into the office.
«Mr. Sengoku?»
«Momousagi, please accompany these ladies to the Hall of Prophecy. They are looking for something from…» he glanced at the date on top of his notes «sixteen years ago.»
He then turned to the two professors.
«Momousagi will help you in your query. As you know, many prophecies are protected by our privacy policy, so if you need access to any of those, you’ll need to fill a separate request.»
«I’m familiar with the process.» Madame Sharley cut short «Thank you, Mr. Sengoku.»
«The Heir of Slytherin?»
You couldn’t believe what you just heard.
Chamber of Secrets? Heir of Slytherin? Were these Ravenclaws nuts in the head?
«It was hard to digest for me too, at first.» Reiju said «Especially because he doesn’t have any proof, aside the roosters disappearing short before the year started.»
«Okay, let me get this straight.» you pinched the bridge of your nose «The creep here says someone will open the Chamber of Secrets, buying into a dead-old legend. He starts stalking people for it with NO PROOF, and you guys follow him?!»
«I did my research. I have reasons,» Law growled «I’m just not willing to share them with you at the moment.»
«OH, THAT MAKES IT OKAY THEN!» you blurted.
«Calm down you two.» Reiju sighed, stepping in between «Look, I didn’t believe him either, but last week Porche came back to the house terrified, blabbering about an hissing voice chasing her.»
Your eyebrows flicked and Killer’s words suddenly replayed in your head.
Drake noticed the change on your face.
«What is it, L/n?»
Your eyes slowly travelled from him to Law.
«Killer said something similar.»
Trafalgar’s attention sparked.
«It happened to him? Where?»
«I don’t know… but it must’ve been the night he walked Reiju to your dorm because he mentioned the Ravenclaw tower.»
She frowned, tapping her finger over her chin.
«Porche said it was the bottom of the tower. It’s the same place then.»
«Yeah, but he and Kid went back to check and they found nothing!» you protested, shaking your head.
«No surprise.» Drake continued «We went there too, to no avail. I even tried to call the creature and it didn’t work.»
«It’s not so strange though.» Law reasoned «The serpent of Slytherin is supposed to hunt muggle-borns. We’re all pureblood. Same goes for Eustass.»
You stared at him, eyes horrified for a second.
«…but not Killer.»
«Nor Porche.» Reiju added.
«Okay, this is getting too crazy!» you uttered raising your hands «If you had such strong suspicions, why didn’t you inform some prof?»
Law shrugged.
«I tried to spoke with Cora-san but he dismissed my concerns. There is no proof, and the Chamber of Secrets has been sealed for ages. It’s also flooded, and the basilisk killed. They would never give credit to something like this the year of the Triwizard Tournament.»
«Then how…?»
«It’s not so difficult to breed a basilisk.» Drake explained «All you need is a chicken egg and a toad. Most of the eggs incubated this way won’t hatch, but you only need one.»
«Obviously it’s a forbidden practice and the Ministry carries out inspections. Still it would be far from impossible.» Reiju mumbled.
«Even so, wouldn’t it take hundreds of years for a basilisk to reach the adult size?»
«Yes.» Drake nodded «But someone could have sneaked it in in the past. Or it could be a young individual, hopefully.»
«Okay, okay, there’s still something I don’t get here.» you grumbled, massaging your temples «If you believe that I’m the one starting all this crazy shit, why are you telling me this?»
«Because even if you are, in fact, the Heir of Slytherin, you clearly don’t know it.» Law stated.
«You were unaware of being a Parselmouth until yesterday.» Drake added.
You stared at them.
«Are you saying… I’m sleepwalking or something?»
«It wouldn’t be impossible.»
You dropped your arms along your sides and fell quiet.
Could they be right? You didn’t know you could speak Parseltongue. The craziest thing happened to you all the time. Would it really be so weird for you to be the Heir of Slytherin?
The Ravenclaws noticed the change in your attitude and glanced at each other.
Eventually, Law grunted and clicked his fingers in front of you.
«Oi, L/n. Don’t you understand? You may not be the Heir of Slytherin, but even if you are, it would be a good thing.»
Your lip twitched.
«Excuse me?»
«You’re not a bloodthirsty prick obsessed with pureblood supremacy.» Drake said, crossing his arms «If you learned how to use the Heir power, nothing bad would happen.»
«Of course there’s also the possibility Law is wrong and the Chamber is dead.» Reiju smiled, earning a small scoff from the ravenette.
You took a few seconds to let their words sink.
Everything still sounded so weird it felt like you were stuck in a cloudy dream.
«So… what now?» you lowly asked.
«A few things.» Law started, pointing at the snake sculpted in the marble «First of all, try to open that.»
You frowned.
«Didn’t Drake try already?»
«Yes but one more attempt can’t hurt.»
«Fine.»
You took a deep breath and positioned yourself in front of the sink.
After a few moments filled with expectation, though, your eyes trailed to Drake.
«What am I supposed to do exactly?» you whispered.
Law groaned and Reiju chuckled. Even Drake smirked at your question.
«Repeat after me, okay? Open.»
«Open.» you hissed, trying to imitate him.
It was still hard to distinguish Parseltongue from regular words.
You all stared at the sink for a solid minute, but nothing happened.
«…so that didn’t work.»
«There must be another entrance somewhere else.» Law mumbled.
«Okay, neeeext.» you sighed, turning to him.
He didn’t look amused by your attitude.
«You won’t like what’s next.»
«Because the rest of this was so much fun!» you grinned.
«Y/n, there’s still the possibility that the Heir is someone else.» Reiju said before Law decided murdering you was an easier way to settle things.
«Or nobody else.» you grumbled.
«…this is why other Slytherin can’t know about this.»
You glared at Law.
«Are you saying I can’t tell my friends this nice story?»
«Precisely.»
«Well, not for you to decide.» you shrugged «I trust them. Kid and Killer can help us out with the research, they’ve been wondering the forbidden areas of the castle since forever. Or you don’t trust them either?»
«As much as I hate to admit it, I don’t suspect them.» Law seriously said «Kamazo is a muggle-born and Eustass is an idiot, but even I can tell that he wouldn’t willingly risk his friends’ life. Nevertheless, involving Eustass is suicide. He’s subtle like a troll in a conference. The whole school would know in a heartbeat.»
«So what? Then Whitebeard would take over and this shit would end.»
«We should consider the worst-case scenario, Y/n. It could be any pureblood from Slytherin.» Reiju stated softly «It could be Katakuri.»
The sole mention of his name turned the blood in your veins to ice.
«Your friends would be in danger. Everybody would.»
«Anybody who knows is at risk.» Drake agreed «We don’t want to involve anyone else. Especially from Slytherin.»
«We should start from our tower.» Law continued «You’ll call the basilisk there and we’ll see what happens.»
Your let out a breath and your attention slid across the words, to all those names cluttering the tiles, hundreds and hundreds of them.
«Y/n?»
Your eyes didn’t leave the wall.
«You drag me here, tell me that I’m probably drenched in Dark Magic, capable of doing horrible things without even knowing, and I should keep it from all my friends. Worst, I should beware all my housemates and try to make sure I don’t inadvertently let a bloodthirsty monster free.»
«We know it’s a lot to take in.» Reiju murmured, placing her hand on your arm «Look, we’re probably wrong. But we have to make sure.»
You sighed.
«Fine. I’ll call your monster, Trafalgar. You better be prepared if it actually shows up.»
You headed to the door but Law moved after you.
«Wait, L/n. There’s… one more thing I have to say.»
You glanced at him over your shoulder, eyes now tired.
«More? How delightful.»
For the first time that evening, Law seemed to falter. A rapid grimace traversed his features and he clicked his tongue.
«…fine. You should know. I was the one who–»
«He’s the one who decided to tell you the truth.» Reiju interrupted.
You all turned to her.
«I forced them to come clean with me but I didn’t intend to burden you at the beginning. Law made me realize you should have a say in this.» she explained.
You observed her, then your gaze shift back to Law.
«Okay. I’ll let you know how I feel about it when I understand it myself. Bye.»
With a last wave of your hand, you walked away.
After you left, the three Ravenclaw remained silent for a while, not moving among the floating candles.
«I thought you said I should confess all my crimes, and yet you keep me from revealing the worst one.» Law finally spoke, looking at Reiju «I’m the one who enchanted the gargoyles to attack her, after all.»
The witch hummed.
«I know, and I haven’t forgiven you yet. But Y/n is actually willing to work with us and we don’t need to make it more complicated.»
Drake nodded.
«I agree. She would hate you if she knew.»
«No, that’s not what I’m afraid of. She may even forgive you.» Reiju observed «If we really have to fight a monster, we will need to join hands with her whole team.»
The pinkette moved in front of Law, her confident smirk turning cold as she stared at him right in the eyes.
«If your actions come up, have no doubts, Eustass will make dead meat of you. Allies or not.»
Notes:
A/n. Hey guys! Sorry, once again it’s all talking and no action. :(
The plan was to have the next round of the Duelling tournament here as well, but it was getting far too long so I’m keeping it for next chapter.
Also, the whole Chamber of Secrets plot point was supposed to come up much later in the story, but… it just happened now. ^^” Things are not quite how they seem though.
Next up: a nocturnal hunt with the Ravenclaws, Duelling tournament round 3, and Y/n’s scan (in which Kid will plays a little part and we’ll finally know who’s Y/n’s uncle)!
Stay tuned and thank you for all the support!
Chapter 24: Duelling tournament - round three
Notes:
I feel like this can refer to the previous chapter too, but it’s certainly a clarification needed for the following ones as well. Please keep in mind that Law here is sixteen, just like most of the characters – it means he’s ten years younger than the canon series. So if he feels OOC, please try to remember how he used to be in his backstory. If he still feels OOC then, let me know. I’m trying my best with him and I’d love your feedback! Thank you. :)
Chapter Text
Calm down, Y/n. After all, is this any different than the previous years?
You let out a sigh and rolled in your sheets for the hundredth time.
After the encounter with the Ravenclaws, your first impulse was to get Perona, Kid and Killer and tell them the whole story. If there really was an Heir of Slytherin, then the professors should be taking care of it.
But just as you set foot into the Great Hall for dinner, Katakuri walked passed you alongside Cracker and Smoothie.
He didn’t do anything threatening, on the contrary, he was the only Charlotte that acknowledged your presence and offered you a brief nod. Still, you felt his imposing aura spreading around, students stepped back to let him pass and his maroon eyes were cold as ice.
Maybe that was when you changed your mind.
If there was an Heir, and that Heir was not you, then Drake was right. The more people knew, the higher the risks.
Perona noticed you were strangely quiet for the whole meal and you felt bad for lying once again, telling her that it was due to the tension for the Duelling tournament.
You hummed lowly, finally giving up falling asleep and lying on your back with your arms folded behind your head.
Why so upset? You had been in worse situations before. Nobody was dying at the moment, maybe there wasn’t even anything to worry about.
Despite those thoughts, you spent the night awake and the following Friday was severely underwhelming. As if it weren’t enough, everybody was super excited for the next round of the Duelling tournament.
You had shoved the event in the farthest corner of your mind but with all the students coming to wish you the best or worst of luck, you were forcefully reminded you had to compete too.
Hoping to catch a minute of peace after lunch, you tried to sneak towards the east wing of the third floor, where there wasn’t really anything interesting except for a couple of study rooms, but Killer waved at you from down the corridor just before you could take the stairs.
«Oi, Y/n!»
The whole gang was there, with Kid looking rather impatient.
«Are you coming to train now? We only have a few hours left.»
You crooked your mouth, quickly considering the idea, but were once again interrupted by someone gently tugging at your sleeve.
«Y/n?»
Reiju greeted you with a tentative smile and only earned a frown in return.
«What?»
She glanced at the group of Slytherins nearby before leaning closer to you.
«Trafalgar says we’re doing it tomorrow night, after the curfew.» she whispered.
«Tomorrow? It’s weekend, there’ll be tons of professors on patrol.»
«That’s why it’s safer. What if the basilisk really comes?»
You grimaced.
«Good point.»
«Y/n?»
You both turned to the guys. Kid looked really annoyed now.
«You coming or what?»
Reiju smirked at them.
«Sorry, just one more second.»
«Oh, hum, okay.» Killer muttered, earning an irritated glance from the redhead.
The Ravenclaw leaned closer again.
«Trafalgar made a list of charms you should prepare beforehand. I’ll give it to you after the tournament, okay?»
«Oh, yeah? Tell Trafalgar he can shove the list up his ass.»
Without adding anything more, you walked past her and reached your housemates.
«Good luck for tonight!» she wished to your back.
You raised your hand but didn’t turn.
«Is everything okay?» Killer asked as the whole group started to walk towards the west wing.
«Sure.» you grumbled.
The training was even worse than the rest of the day. Your mind seemed unable to recall any useful spell for the entire session.
Kid kicked your ass, then Killer kicked your ass, then you kicked an ancient armor in frustration and hurt your foot.
«Ouch! Fuck my life!» you snapped, throwing your wand to the ground.
«Yeah, you suck today. What’s that about?» Kid huffed.
«Shut up! I didn’t even want to participate in this stupid tournament anyway!»
Heat and Wire exchanged a look.
Surprisingly, Kid didn’t snap back. He was too much in a good mood to care since none of you even managed to raise your wand against him before being disarmed. Or thrown to the other side of the room.
«Y/n, you need to think of some sort of strategy if you want to stand a chance.» Killer calmly observed.
«I don’t care! I could train a thousand years and I still wouldn’t stand a chance against anybody there! Except Cavendish, maybe.»
«If you fight like you just did, he’ll wipe the floor with your ass too.»
Your eyes darted to Kid.
«You’re a jerk, you know that, yes?»
He gave you his devilish grin.
«It’s not my fault you fight like a girl.»
You gritted your teeth and snatched your wand from the ground.
«I’LL SHOW YOU HOW A GIRL FIGHTS!»
«Oh-oh, you triggered her.»
Kid stood up from his post with a smirk but Heat stepped in between.
«Sorry guys, but it’s time to go. You shouldn’t miss dinner if you want to be at your best.»
«Fuck yeah, I’m starving!» Kid roared, putting his wand back «Sorry sprite, I’ll mince you later.»
You glared at him but didn’t reply, slowly following the others out of the room.
«You should preserve some of that anger for later. Maybe you’ll get to fight him after all.» Killer murmured, approaching you and walking by your side.
«I’ll try.» you sighed.
Later that night, Doflamingo gathered all the Slytherin duellers and marched down the corridor that led to the arena.
Even at distance, you could hear the chaos of the crowd thronging on the bleachers and even some professors trying to call students to order.
Your stomach decided it was going to get rid of dinner soon from the wrong exit, which was ironic since you were barely able to eat.
«What’s wrong, squirt? Are you going to be sick?» Niji sneered, turning back to look at you as you neared the entrance.
«If that’s the case, I’ll be sure to puke on you.» you growled back, earning a grimace from the guy and a snicker from Kid.
«All right hatchlings, you know the deal.» Doflamingo grinned once he reached the threshold of the hall «Don’t embarrass me.»
«Always a great pep talk.» you muttered under your breath, standing in the back of the group.
When you stepped into the arena and a roar of yells welcomed the contestants, you really though you were going to throw up here and there, in front of the entire school.
The Duelling hall was huge, even bigger than the Great Hall. The ceiling had been decorated with figures of the four House animals facing each other in epic poses, each one to one corner overseeing the respective entrance. Several layers of bleachers lined the four walls and were crammed with literally all the students of Hogwarts. The colours of their uniforms marked each wall for a specific House and, if that wasn’t enough, banners and boards decorated the crowd, cheering for different champions.
There was an awful lot for Law, you observed with a twitch of annoyance. Then your stomach had another painful squeeze when you saw one sketch of the Gryffindor boys badly enchanting two green doodles that could only represent you and Kid. The doodles were continuously trying to stand up but tumbled miserably under the red wands.
«Those fuckers.» Kid hissed, tightening his fists.
You sighed and looked towards Slytherin side to gain some more support. Although most of the boards were praising Katakuri, you did spot a couple with your name. Perona waved at you when your eyes met and even Momonosuke cheered at you from his spot among the freshmen. You attempted a weak smile in response.
The arena itself was much wider than last time, surrounded by glowing cordage and torches flaring in the corners.
Taking another big breath, you let your gaze slid across the other entrances.
As always, Gryffindors champions were the liveliest. Luffy and Ace were jumping around excitedly, grinning at the crowd. Sabo, Sanji and Zoro were more relaxed but they still seemed sickly confidant. Even Prof. Akagami was agitating his fists like he was just another contestant.
The Ravenclaws were of course more contained. Prof. Dracule stood on the side with his arms crossed while Law, Drake and Hawkins just stepped in the hall, barely acknowledging the chaos.
They must think they’re damn cool, don’t they?
On Hufflepuff’s side, only Weevil was waiting impatiently beside Prof. Jinbe.
Some of the other professors were scattered among the students to maintain the order, but most of them were sitting on the central bastion facing the arena. Principal Whitebeard was in the middle, with Marco to his right and that Aokiji person on his left. Just beside him sat Madame Sharley.
Whitebeard stood up and grinned at the crowd.
«All right, kids, keep quiet for a second.» the principal’s voice thundered and the chaos tuned down immediately.
«I’m happy to see you showed up so numerous to support our champions! Congratulations to all the duellers that made it this far. I’m excited to present the second round of our Duelling tournament. Today we will assist to eight new matches with direct elimination. The four winners will face each other for the title next Friday. Good luck to you all! Bring honour to your House and, above all, to yourselves! Guararararara!»
Whitebeard theatrically pointed at the witch nearby.
«Madame Sharley will announce the match-ups as the best fits come to her. Now let’s get started!»
The students exploded in cheers again and your heart began pounding.
The seer slowly stood up and gracefully shook her wand. An excited silence fell in the hall as silver smokes danced mid-air to form some words.
Portgas D. Ace VS Vinsmoke Ichiji
Yells and shouts echoed across the arena as your tensed body slightly relaxed.
The two champions broke off from their group and walked in the ring while Brook stepped in as a referee.
As the duel started, that little relief you felt for not being the first dissipated in an instant. It was immediately clear that those fights were nothing like the previous round.
Those guys were top notch and they were coming at each other with all they had. Which was a lot.
You knew Ace was a master of raw power, but you didn’t expect him to be able to handle fire spells that well. On his side, Ichiji was an expert of explosive hexes.
«Holy shit…» you murmured, your eyes darting back and forth to follow the rapid exchange of flashing charms.
«Are you okay, Y/n?» Cavendish asked, moving beside you.
«No, I’m not. Are you watching that? I’m gonna die up there.»
He scoffed.
«Oh, come on. You recently shot down the gargoyles. Where’s your grit?»
«Dead and buried with those angry rocks?»
Eventually Ace’s strength proved to be too much for Ichiji’s stamina and the redhead got kicked out of the ring, causing a massive storm of cheers from Gryffindor’s side.
Your heart jumped in your throat when you saw Madame Sharley standing again.
Charlotte Katakuri VS Roronoa Zoro
While you were happy Katakuri was not going to be your opponent, that second fight terrified you even more.
Zoro put up a fierce resistance against the Charlotte, showing to be a beast just as though, surprising everybody by landing a few violent blows. The crowd was holding their breath. But Katakuri was on a different level and he conquered the victory with a crushing hex that sent Zoro flying.
You felt like you could cry.
Marco, the referee for this duel, raised his hand.
«The victory goes to Charlotte Katakuri from Slytherin!» he announced, eliciting another roar from the audience.
Madame Sharley waited for the chaos to settle before letting her magic showcase the next match.
As the silver words took form in the air, the colour drained from your face.
L/n D. Y/n VS Trafalgar Law
Well, fuck my life.
A rather feminine choir of cheers flooded the hall as your body mechanically moved towards the arena.
«Dammit, I wanted to fuck up Trafalgar!» Kid growled.
«Wanna trade?» you flatly asked when you passed by him.
Just climbing into the arena felt exhausting. People were yelling for both of you but the ringing in your ears prevented you to distinguish any word. Law, on the other hand, seemed totally unaffected as he entered the ring himself.
Thatch took position in the middle of the arena and gestured for the two of you to approach.
«I expect a honourable duel. Now shake each other’s hand.»
You obeyed and a crooked smirk tugged at Trafalgar’s lips as he squeezed your cold hand.
«What’s the matter, L/n? You look rather pale.» he whispered.
His words (his smirk) got under your skin.
You gritted your teeth.
«Mind your words, Trafalgar. You don’t wanna be eaten by a basilisk.» you hissed.
His eyes sharpened and he let go of you instantly.
You didn’t even know why you said that but you didn’t regret it. That guy had been fucking with you long enough.
Sure he was probably the best wizard of your year and you knew you didn’t stand a chance against him. But at least now you had a reason to make his victory as hard and painful as possible.
Only problem was he probably had that too.
«Okay, on your marks. Three… two… one… DUEL!»
«MURUM!» you yelled immediately, casting the barrier in front of you.
Unfortunately, Law had foreseen that would be your first spell, and he sent a shattering hex against it at the very same time.
The rapid exchange gave you just enough seconds to cast a charm on yourself.
«Acceleratio!»
Trafalgar was far too quick for you, so first of all you had to counter that if you didn’t want to be shoved out of the ring immediately. Much to your dismay, you realized your spell barely allowed you to keep up with his natural speed. As if it weren’t enough, Law hardly had to move his lips to cast his attacks so it was difficult to understand what kind of hexes he was using. All you could do was meeting his darting flares with blocking spells. He didn’t let you any time to breathe and think about something else.
The clashes turned more and more violent against your blocks, pushing you into a corner.
«YAYYY! YOU GO LAW!»
«TRAFALGAR IS OUR CHAMP~»
«COME ON, Y/N!»
«FLOOR HER!»
«TROUBLEMAKER, DON’T GIVE UP!»
You gritted your teeth, continuously agitating your wand, trying to intercept all his leashing attacks.
Damn, I can’t even think!
Then, suddenly, his wand rolled aside in a strange way.
«Room.»
What? What kind of shit—
A transparent barrier surrounded you and his wand had a quick flip.
«Shambles.»
Suddenly you were forcefully moved across the ring and right beside him in what felt like a second. Your eyes widened.
What the fuck?!
«Pietrificus totalus.» he said, almost lazily.
«LIBERUM!»
It was your pure instinct that made you use your magic on yourself, once again, allowing your body to free itself from his curse. You lost the added speed and tumbled on the floor among the gasps of the audience, but you caught a glimpse of his eyebrows flicking in a frown before hitting the ground.
He had made a mistake. Trafalgar Law had made a mistake and he knew it!
If he only had cast a simple Expelliarmus, he would have won in an instant. But no, he had to go and try to crush you further.
«YOU’RE A BITCH, YOU KNOW THAT?!» you barked, rolling away to avoid his further hex.
Part of the crowd burst in laughter.
«Miss L/n, language!» Whitebeard roared.
«If you can insult, you can fight back!» Doflamingo yelled from the side.
I hate everybody.
«Murum! Serpensortia!»
Law gritted his teeth in a growl when two big snakes wriggled out of your wand and darted towards him.
You think I’m the Heir of Slytherin, don’t you? Then let me give you something to conspire about!
He got rid of them quickly but that gave you enough time to aim at him.
«Expelliarmus!»
«REDUCTO!» he yelled.
To your horror, the two arcs of lights met mid-air and entwined with each other.
«WE HAVE A LOCK, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN!» Thatch uttered excitedly as the crowd awed.
Fuck.
That wasn’t the ideal scenario.
It took more or less two seconds for you to realize there was no way you could keep him at bay. His magic was just too powerful and refined for you to resist.
«DAMMIT!» you shouted, grabbing your wand with both hands while the shining knot that was originally in the middle was quickly pushed against you.
«GO LAW, GO!»
«REISIST, Y/N!»
You yelled, arms shaking for the effort, and put all the strength you had left in that last stroke of your wand.
As your mind strained and your knees trembled, an uninvited image suddenly flashed in your head.
A little girl, couldn’t be older than seven or so, with brown pigtails and a wide smile on her round face as she happily licked the ice-cream in her hand. When she turned and grinned at you, you noticed something familiar in her features.
«Big bro…!»
A violent scream quickly brought you back to reality.
In the blinding light of the lock, you barely managed to distinguish Law’s face distorted in a furious grimace.
«SECTUMSEMPRA!»
What?!
«LAW!» Rocinante yelled, jumping to his feet.
Luckily for you, spells cast within a lock mainly count for their raw power more than their effects. Still, the shockwave was enough to hit you like a truck.
You didn’t only fly beyond the borders, you were shoved down the stairs of the ring. With your last energies, you pushed out a weak transfiguration around you.
«Area mollis…!»
The floor softened where you fell, making you bounce lightly below the arena.
At least no fractures this time. Hopefully.
You slowly struggled back on your four with a groan amidst the chaos that followed your defeat.
Yeah, yeah, celebrate your champion. I’m just glad it’s over.
The small relief was short lived though, because Trafalgar didn’t really seem to care about his victory. You raised your eyes just in time to see him bolting towards you, that terrifying grimace still on his face.
«WHAT DID YOU DO?!» he barked, shutting up half of the audience.
Uh-oh?
Thatch frowned in confusion.
«Oi, boy…!»
Your jaw dropped when you saw him wield his wand towards you.
Is he for real?!
«Back off, Trafalgar!»
Kid jumped in front of you with a snarl, brandishing his own wand.
«ENOUGH.»
Everybody stopped with a flinch when Whitebeard’s stern voice echoed in the hall.
«What is this disgraceful showcase of aggression? I expected more from you, Trafalgar.»
Law snarled, his livid eyes darting to you above Kid’s shoulder but he couldn’t add anything before Thatch’s hand securely dropped on his arm.
«I’m letting that last spell slip only because you cast it within a lock, but know there will not be a next time. If you resort to a forbidden hex again, you’ll be out of the competition.»
The Ravenclaw scoffed and shrugged the professor’s hand away.
«I believe I’m not the only one resorting to forbidden spells.»
He glared at you again and you blinked.
What is he talking about? That image I saw?
You felt someone grabbing your arm and Cavendish helped you standing up.
«Just wait, you creep.» Kid growled «I’ll crush you like the bug you are.»
Law coldly stared down at him, finally retrieving his calm attitude.
«Sure, I’ll be waiting. I believe this makes two of your crew that I annihilated, correct?»
Kid predictably lost it and was about to jump at him, but Doflamingo appeared out of nowhere and pulled him back by his uniform.
«Okay, Mr. Eustass, that’s quite enough. Miss L/n, please, call your boyfriend off.»
«What?!» Kid barked, a blush already spreading on his pale neck.
You rolled your eyes and huffed.
Doflamingo ignored you both and turned to the professors’ bastion.
«You may want to better guide your stray son, brother. He seems a little out of control.»
Corazon’s jaw tensed but he didn’t retort, his serious eyes trailing to Law instead. Trafalgar stiffened uncomfortably and finally walked out of the ring.
Whispers, snickers and comments echoed all over the hall.
«If we’re done with the scene, we should continue. Madame Sharley?» Whitebeard asked with a sigh.
The witch nodded and evoked the names for the following match.
Chapter 25: Another good weekend
Notes:
This chapter was supposed to include another important part with the reveal of Y/n’s uncle and a moment with Kid I’ve been itching to write for a while. Unfortunately it was getting way too long and I decided to split the chapter in two. I may get to it right away though.
See the notes at the end of the chapter for more.
Also, sometimes I feel like this story has too many transitional dialogues – I need to know if you have the same feeling so I can work on improving. Thank you!
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
After the rush of adrenalin subsided, the image of that smiling little girl came back to bug your brain.
You followed the rest of the tournament from the bleachers, sitting between Perona and Killer. To be truthful though, many of the duels unfolded without you paying much attention.
Luffy easily defeated Niji while Drake had much more problems against Weevil and his raw power, but eventually made it to the next round.
Among the chaos and the flashing spells, your eyes scanned the arena to spot Law, now sitting in the shadow behind the Ravenclaw champions.
«Yeah, what on earth is wrong with Trafalgar?» Perona huffed, following your gaze between a match and the other «He was about to lose his mind there.»
You sighed.
«I may have… done something to his mind during the lock. Not on purpose.» you muttered.
Her dark eyes shifted on you.
«What?»
«Yeah, like… seeing some memory of his or something. I’m not sure. But he must have noticed and got upset over it.»
«You mean you read his freaking mind?!»
You winced.
«Don’t make a big deal out of it. I’ll talk to Professor Riku, she’ll probably explain this.»
«Legilimency, then?»
You swiftly turned to Killer, who sipped at his soda from the straw. He didn’t look particularly concerned.
«You know something?»
«Not much,» he shrugged «but I’ve read that it’s possible to create a mental connection with another wizard during a lock, even by accident, then some images could leak. Maybe this is what happened.»
«You’re kinda inclined for spells that mess with mind, emotions and stuff. And you do take Occlumency classes.» Perona observed.
«Those are just to avoid nightmares. But it’s true about the spells, I tend to be better with those than ones based on strength or precision.»
«Maybe Trafalgar was upset and he unleashed his emotions in the lock. It definitely seemed so from here.» Killer nodded.
Yeah, he hates me, so it wouldn’t be a surprise.
All your talking was cut short when Madame Sharlay announced the new match-up.
Vinsmoke Sanji VS Eustass Kid
«WRECK HIM, KID!»
Killer’s sudden outburst had you and Perona jump in your seat.
After your heart went back to a human pace, a subtle smile tugged at your lips as you watched the usually collected Killer shouting for his friend, at least for a second. The moment Kid stepped on the arena, a moderate tension pumped through your veins, and you found yourself shouting from the audience as well.
«C’MON KID! DON’T YOU DARE LOSE!»
It was unlikely for the redhead to hear you in the chaos, a Slytherin vs. Gryffindor match always elicited the loudest reactions after all, but he seemed confident enough.
The match wasn’t long, although Sanji did put up a fight.
You had to admit he was a smarter dueller than Kid, he relied on speed and perception while Kid continuously threw explosive hexes at him. You even had a fit of sympathy for his way of fighting: you could learn something from him, it seemed you both had to overcome the same issues when facing powerful wizards. It didn’t last long though, you still wanted to see Kid gaining a crushing victory on him.
And so he did.
Kid had a natural talent for creating magic fields around him, his range could just expand wider than anyone you knew, and Sanji eventually fell victim of it.
«YESS!» you yelled, jumping up like many of your fellow Slytherins.
«Wow, he’s really a beast.» Perona commented.
Kid turned to your side with that wicked grin of his and his fist raised. His amber eyes quickly spotted you and the rest of his crew, and his smile grew a little.
Unfortunately Cavendish lost the following duel against Hawkins, and with Sabo kicking Smoothie out of the competition, the round ended up with much less Slytherins than before.
Whitebeard closed the night with the usual congratulations and the crowd was dismissed.
You got up between the multitude of students starting to leave the hall and a few of your muscles spasmed in agony, pushing a groan out of your throat. You hadn’t realized how messed up you were until that moment.
«Ready to go to bed?» Perona smirked, patting your arms.
Killer and the others had already disappeared to reach Kid.
«Hell yeah.» you grumbled, but your eyes fell on the arena, where champions and professors were moving towards the exits too in between the crowd.
«Just a second though, I want to ask when I can see Professor Riku.» you added as you saw Doflamingo heading to the doors.
«What, now?» Perona whined.
«Go on, I’ll reach you in no time!» you shouted, already plunging through the tides of students.
It wasn’t easy to get to Doflamingo in that swarm of people, you had to shrug away a number of students that called for your attention, either to congratulate or to insult you, but eventually you were able to catch up with him.
«Professor Donquixote! Professor!»
The tall wizard turned to you, his forehead twitching menacingly as students walked past. He was clearly not in his best mood, maybe because he watched many of his “hatchlings” lose. And you were one of them.
«L/n.» he grunted, his shielded eyes landing on you «You came to embarrass yourself a little more?»
You winced.
«You know, professor, you threw me out there without asking. I’m sorry I couldn’t live up to the expectations.»
He fully turned to you and crossed his arms.
«Apologies accepted. Now, is there something else I can help you with?»
Jerk.
«Yes.» you grumbled, trying to swallow your irritation «I’d like to speak with Professor Riku. Do you know if she’s around?»
A glimpse of curiosity seemed to meld into Doflamingo’s annoyance.
«She only comes to the castle on assignment, you know it. Why do you need her?»
«It’s just…»
You hesitated, glancing at the teacher’s partially concealed expression, which only made him more interested.
«Does it have something to do with Trafalgar’s outburst perhaps? You saw something you shouldn’t have?»
Damn his wit.
You had an idea of what kind of person Doflamingo was, even more so than most of the students. Courtesy of your uncle, who had intel on him of course, and didn’t find inappropriate to babble about it with you around.
Apparently the guy had been a big shot of the magic underworld, he still held a certain amount of power, probably. The Ministry had tried to convict him a number of time but they were always unsuccessful.
You weren’t sure how he ended up being a teacher at Hogwarts, maybe he eventually had to take a deal, maybe it was a choice. Even if he was legit now, he always maintained that shady aura that reeked of black magic.
He was brusque with the students and had an inclination for sadistic mind games, but in all your years in Hogwarts, you had never seen him being overly mean to anybody. At times, he could even be slightly protective.
And he was still the head of your house.
Fine.
«Mm, yes, kind of.» you admitted in a sigh «I’m not sure what I saw, thought Miss Viola could clarify it.»
Doflamingo stayed silent for a moment, then he hinted to a lateral corridor and started walking towards it.
You frowned and hurried behind.
When you both turned the corner where the flow of students died out, he leaned with his back against the wall and motioned for you to talk.
«Tell me what you saw.»
You gave him a brief summary of what happened during the lock with Law and he nodded, crossing his arms again in thought.
«It’s not so uncommon. Wizards, especially inexperienced ones, can inadvertently exchange raw thoughts and emotions during a lock.» he explained.
Just as Killer said.
«So I don’t have to worry about it, right?» you muttered, shifting your weight from one leg to the other «Regular stuff.»
«…what is uncommon is how you saw such a clean, specific image.»
Oh, crap.
«Anyway, I’m not surprised.» he continued «You already showed an attitude for Legilimency during your training with Violet.»
Violet? They must be fairly acquainted to each other.
«I wouldn’t call it an attitude.» you scoffed «She just said I was better suited for that rather than power-based spells.»
Doflamingo’s forehead creased for a second before his usual smirk entered his features.
«Well, now you can call it an attitude.» he stood from the wall «I’m sure Violet will explain you everything in your next session.»
You nibbled at your inner cheek.
«So you’re saying… I’m a Legilimens?»
Doflamingo huffed, now bored by your stress.
«No, Miss L/n, you’re not that special. All I’m saying is that you can train to become one. Probably.»
«Huh, okay.»
The professor observed you for a second and raised his brow.
«I can’t help but notice you’re acting like it’s a bad thing.»
«I…!» you gritted your teeth «It’s that this week I suddenly turned out to be a Parseltongue, now a Legilimens! Just how many other things I am that I’m unaware of?!»
The Heir of Slytherin maybe?
Your guts churned at the thought and you quickly averted your eyes.
Doflamingo frowned.
«First of all, you’re not a Legilimens, as I’ve already said. Second of all, if you’re seriously complaining about the universe gracing you with powerful talents, let me reassure you: many young wizards find out they have gifts, only to grow up into meaningless nobodies anyway. It happens all the time in the magic world. Does this make you feel better?»
Oddly enough, it does.
«O-Okay but… aren’t these “gifts” like… common traits of past Dark Lords?»
Your voice almost came out like a squeak and you kept your gaze fixed to the floor the whole time.
There was a pause before Doflamingo spoke again.
«Do you want to become the next Dark Lord, Y/n?»
Your eyes flicked up.
«What?! No, of course not!»
«Then cut the bullshit. This has nothing to do with your talents. If you don’t know who you are, that’s on you.»
You gazed at him in shock.
He looked serious now, almost threatening.
It took a while before you found the strength to reply.
«Do you… do you know many sixteen-year old that know who they are?»
Doflamingo stared at you for a second, then he snickered.
«I have an assignment for you, Miss L/n.»
«Wait, did this thing led me to having more homewo--»
The wizard took a step forward and pressed his index finger on your forehead.
«In the next couple of days, I want you to think about whom you want to be.» he said «It was clear by your O.W.L. assay that you have no idea what to do with your future. Time to change that.»
«But--»
You stopped as the smile disappeared from his face and the veins on his temple throbbed.
«I believe what you mean is “yes, professor”.»
You swallowed.
«Yes, professor.»
«Good.» he dropped his arms and smirked «Have a good night, miss L/n.»
The common room of Slytherin was in a celebrating atmosphere when you got back.
True, the house didn’t perform very well, but everybody seemed willing to celebrate Katakuri and Kid for accessing the final round.
The Charlottes had formed a compact wall around their leader and were cheering at him. Most of the other people hang around, more focused on hyping Kid up.
He was currently standing by the fireplace, enjoying the attentions of his friends and a bunch of girls.
«Hi Y/n.»
Cavendish passed beside you and offered you a nod. He obviously wasn’t in a mood for celebration.
«Aw, don’t look so gloomy, Cav!» you forced a smile on your face and patted his arm «We stood our ground and didn’t go down easy. We are already better than most people in this school!»
«I guess.» he huffed, swinging his long hair to the side with a curt tilt of his head «You’re only being so positive because you didn’t care from the beginning tho.»
«Guilty.» you chuckled «Come on, you’ll get your chance to shine too.»
«Yeah, yeah.» he rolled his eyes then pointed at the small crew «Go celebrate Eustass. I hate to admit it, but he deserved that victory.»
«Sure.»
Doflamingo’s words were still echoing in your head as you reached your friends.
It’s true that I never seriously thought about my future, but do I really not know who I am?
«Oi, sprite!»
You blinked and raised your eyes on Kid.
He was holding a cub of Venom, the spiked “secret” drink that Slytherin students manufactured, and had a huge grin plastered on his face.
«I know you got your ass kicked, but don’t you wanna congratulate the winner here?»
There was always a note of maliciousness in his smirk, and yet he just looked genuinely happy at the moment.
Your attention briefly wandered to the others: Killer, Heat, Wire, Perona (not the other girls, you hardly noticed them).
You rarely felt doubtful with your friends around.
A pure smile relaxed your lips and you turned back to Kid.
«I do. Congratulations Kid, that was amazing.»
The redhead stared at you in surprise and his grin fell a little. Then he cleared his voice and brusquely turned his back at you.
«Huh, well, of course it was!» he grumbled.
You blinked before an airy chuckle escaped your mouth.
He acts all high and mighty and then he can’t even take a small compliment.
It was kinda cute, actually.
«Y/n, glass of Venom?» Wire asked, already holding one out for you «It’s virgin.»
Lol, of course.
«Thanks.»
«That took quite long.» Perona pouted, stepping by your side while the boys resumed their cheers and laughter.
«Yeah, sorry. At least Doflamingo said I shouldn’t worry about it.»
«Oh, good.»
You all stayed up late, drinking, eating cookies and going over the duels again and again.
Carina, Sadi and a couple of other girls tried to lean against Kid’s sides a couple of times but he ignored them for the most part and eventually they left. It was weirdly satisfying.
They were soon replaced by Cavendish, Ulti and Page One, which, in your opinion, were a much better company.
Doflamingo’s words still popped out in your head a couple of times, but being surrounded by your friends put you at ease almost immediately. You considered the new assignment for a moment.
Kid was standing in front of the couch you were sitting on with Perona and Heat, waving his arms around to mimic how he was going to annihilate his next opponent. Heat’s imposing presence felt warm and relaxing beside you as he quietly listened to him. Perona was continuously rolling her eyes but even she couldn’t choke a stray giggle from time to time. Killer was sitting on the armrest of another sofa by Kid’s side, drink in his hand and a quiet smile on his face, although his gaze was covered by the thick bangs. Wire stood too, refilling the glasses that were empty but not noticing Ulti tugging at his uniform to get her own drink. She was short-tempered but that didn’t seem to help. You caught Page One silently snickering at his sister’s misfortune. Cavendish, on the other hand, still kept his outraged attitude but was starting to relax glass by glass. Of course you had warned Wire to make sure his drinks were virgin too (Miss Viola always said he shouldn’t lower his inhibitions) but he didn’t need to know it.
Your eyes returned to Kid and you laughed at his impressions.
Maybe this is where I should start from.
The day after, Reiju found you in the library after lunch, bent over a long parchment scroll.
You still had to catch up on your (real) homework, after all.
«Hi.» she whispered, taking a seat in front of you.
You barely raised your eyes from your work.
«Hi.»
«Are you going to give me the cold shoulder for much longer?»
You puckered your lips.
«Not sure.»
She sighed.
«Fine. I came to tell you that tonight’s mission is cancelled. At least I think so. I don’t know what happened during your duel with Trafalgar exactly, but he won’t speak to me.»
You frowned, irises flicking up once again.
«Butthurt much? And he’s the one who won the match.»
«I know. He’s acting like you murdered his family.»
You grimaced and she immediately bit down her lip.
«Oh. Poor choice of words, since his family was actually murdered.» she murmured, pushing her bangs back with a hand «Sorry. I guess sometimes my genes catch up with me.»
You frowned.
It was rare for Reiju to slip in such a way. Maybe the situation was really stressing her out.
You let out a huff and resumed scribbling on your scroll.
«Genes or not, you’re still the best Vinsmoke.» you muttered.
Her eyes darted on you and her expression relaxed a little.
«Thank you. But to be fair, Sanji is the best Vinsmoke.»
«Well, maybe, but I don’t know him that well.»
You finally put down the quill and leaned back on your chair.
«So, no dance with the basilisk tonight then?»
Reiju quickly took a look around to make sure that the other students were at a decent distance. You were speaking at a very low volume anyway.
«No, I guess it’s postponed to when Trafalgar will be able to bear being in the same room with you again, if ever.»
You shrugged.
«Well, we have Charms with Ravenclaw on Monday, so I hope he’ll get over it by then.»
«Unlikely. I think Drake managed to talk to him but he didn’t tell me anything afterwards.»
«His problem then. Look, Rei, I’ll tell you if I see anything… Heir-related happening around me. Until then, you just have to trust me that I would never hurt anyone just because their blood is not “pure” enough or some bullshit like that.»
She chuckled quietly.
«I know. And I trust you.»
The two of you exchanged a timid smile but your attention was caught by the echoing of heels tapping against the ancient floor.
Whitey Bay, Whitebeard’s personal secretary, marched straight to your desk among male glances from the other study groups.
«Miss L/n?» she swiftly asked «Your presence is required to the principal’s office.»
«What?» you gaped at her «Listen, if this is because of the gnomes in Miss Giolla’s office, I swear it has nothing to do with me!»
Whitey Bay’s eyebrow flicked up in irritation.
«I beg your pardon? That’s not it, although you do seem jumpy about it. Come along now, I don’t have all day.»
Reiju sent a knowing look at you and you realized this could be about your Parseltongue test.
Like there was still any doubt.
You threw your stuff in the bag with a sigh and hurried behind Miss Bay.
«Would you believe me if I told you all I want is a quiet, ordinary day?» you asked to her back once you exited the library.
The witch sent a rapid glance at you over her shoulder.
«No.»
«Y/n, do you know what a scan is?»
You frowned in confusion.
«I don’t.»
It wasn’t the first time you were in Whitebeard’s office. To be honest, you had probably visited every professor’s office by now.
Unlike many others though, Principal Edward never yelled at you throughout the years. Still, standing in front of his desk was when your stomach contracted the worst.
His office was the biggest, with wide glass windows that took over almost an entire wall, letting the sun soak the room and play around the numerous crystals and planetary models hanging from the ceiling. Libraries packed with ancient tomes lined the whole perimeter and relics were on display all around.
But the thing that mostly draw attention were the pictures. They were all over the place, crowding every corner of the walls that was not covered in books, with witches and wizards smiling and waving from them, some alone, some in groups. Whitebeard was frequently occupying a good portion of the frame with his imposing figure, and he was surrounded by younger people.
Despite the initial anxiety, there were times in the past you had grown bored of the principal’s reprimand, and had let your eyes wonder the pictures. You could even make out a young Prof. Fushichō here and there, with the childish enthusiastic grin of a newly-sorted student.
But those cute details couldn’t be farthest from your mind now and the old wizard in front of you had your full attention.
Maybe it was because Doflamingo was facing you as well, standing beside Whitebeard’s desk, so whatever you had shared with him apparently turned out to be much more serious than you were led to believe.
Principal Whitebeard pointed his elbows on his desk and leaned forward.
«A scan is a kind of arcane examination. It’s mainly performed to find marks of dark magic.»
Your heart dropped to your guts.
«Miss Hancock agreed to test you for Parseltongue on Monday night, and since you were involved in a number of… peculiar circumstances in the past, we believe it’s a good idea to scan you as well.»
You felt your core tremble and it soon radiated to your arms and fingers, so you ducked them between the chair and your thighs.
The wizard read your horrified face so he immediately waved a dismissing hand in front of you.
«No need to pale like that, lass. This is just a precaution and I want to make one thing very clear:» he stared at you with serious eyes «No one here believes you’re evil, Y/n. You’re a little troublemaker, yes, but you’re also too transparent for your own good. Nobody with a brain would doubt you have a pure heart, and I like to believe my professors are not complete idiots, guararararara!»
Doflamingo scoffed quietly.
You swallowed, a little colour returning to your cheeks at his words but still feeling too shaken to unseal your lips.
«We need the signature of a caretaker to perform the exam, so we notified your uncle.» the principal continued «He wasn’t easy to reach and he took his damn time to reply, guarara! But here, a owl came this morning.»
Whitebeard pushed a parchment in front of you and there it was, your uncle’s lazy signature at the bottom of the paper.
A dark eyebrow furrowed on the principal’s wrinkly forehead.
«I take he hasn’t talked to you then?»
«No.» you flatly said, eyes dropping on your knees.
He and Doflamingo exchanged a quick look before turning to you again.
«Anyway, we’re doing it Monday night, we’ll let you know the details.»
«How does it work?» you finally managed to ask with thin voice.
«We’ll hypnotize you, so you’ll be in a sort of trance as we pass a magic field through your mind. This field will react to any sign of dark magic that may have been placed or performed on you.»
«So if you ever had something to do with the Dark Arts, you better tell us now.» Doflamingo added.
You shot a glare at him.
You’re the one to talk.
«Well, I, huh…» you squinted in an effort to remember all the weird stuff you went through «I was exposed to ghosts, trolls, centauries, the Lost Ark, I fell in a puddle of unicorn’s blood in the Forbidden Forest, Catarina Devon chased me through the dungeons, I think a banshee cursed me once, Basil Hawkins always says I’m a bad omen, a vampire refused to drink my blood when I was a kid, we made the Polyjuice once but I swear it was just for fun and--»
«Ah-hem, okay, that’s quite enough.» Whitebeard interrupted with a grimace «None of this counts as practicing Dark Arts, now breathe.»
You tried.
At least, if I AM the Heir of Slytherin, they will find out.
«Any question?»
«Yes.» your eyes slowly rose to his «What do you expect to find?»
Whitebeard sighed and leaned back against his chair.
«Honestly child, I’m not sure. Maybe some lesser curse. What I can tell you is that I’m not particularly worried. We live in peaceful times, at least in this part of the world. But we oughta make sure.»
You frowned, unsatisfied.
«Okay then, what’s the worst that you could find?»
Whitebeard frowned as well.
He didn’t like the question, but he wasn’t one to sugar-coat things with lies.
«The worst case scenario for a scan? I would say uncover a Horcrux. In your case, though, it’s extremely unlikely.»
Good, because you felt your blood had gone dry again.
«Honestly, Y/n, if you were a Horcrux, Violet would have noticed already.» Doflamingo continued before a malicious grin spread to his features «Plus, whoever thought about making you into a Horcrux would have really bad luck, considering the amount of time you risked to get yourself killed.»
Yeah… this is not really helping.
«B-But what… how would you deal with it then? If you find something, what… will happen to me?» you murmured.
No matter how bad you could squeeze your hands under your legs, they still felt frozen.
«Nothing, child, this is not the Potter age.» Whitebeard answered, a softer note in his voice «If it’s a curse or a Hex, chances are we’ll be able to remove it. Worst case, which is not gonna happen, you’ll have to put on seals that will numb your magic and get checked every now and then. Your skills would be affected a little, but you’d still have a perfectly normal life. Either way, we will guide you through it and be there for you.» he bent forward to place his warm hand on your head «We’re doing this to protect you, Y/n, and I’ll do everything in my power so you can be safe.»
An incipit of tears stung the corners of your eyes and you pressed your lips together.
«Okay.»
He sat back.
«Any other doubt?»
«One.» your eyes dropped again «Will it… will it hurt?»
There was a pause and your face flicked up.
«It may be a little uncomfortable, but it shouldn’t be painful.» the principal said «I’m positive you’ve been through worse. Even your duelling season is worse than that.»
You sighed and nodded.
«Okay.»
«You can have a trusted adult accompany you, so feel free to reach out to your uncle… or whomever you prefer. And don’t hesitate to approach me or professor Donquixote for any question.»
«Okay.»
You stood up, collected your bag and greeted them weakly before heading to the door.
«Y/n?»
You looked back to Doflamingo.
«You’re working on the assignment I gave you, aren’t you?»
Another pause.
«Sure.»
Then you left.
It took a few seconds before Doflamingo moved from beside the desk.
«I really hope this is worth it.» he spat, facing the principal.
Whitebeard pressed his thumbs on his eyes and grunted.
«Oh, you do, Donquixote? You hope we find something horrible in that girl?»
«Whatever it is, it’s part of her!» the blond wizard hissed, pointing to the door «So I hope you’re happy when your sick curiosity is satiated and you send her back to class with a clean conscience!»
The old man banged his ponderous fists on the table and rose.
«Enough.»
That startled even a wizard like Doflamingo, although he recomposed himself immediately.
He glared back at him before shaking his head.
«See you at the scan, principal.»
You speed-walked down the stairs and then along the porch with your head down, hoping the hair would shield your sulk and nobody would meet your eyes.
Clumps of students were scattered all over the halls and corridors, many hanging out around the porch to enjoy the pale sun.
A couple of familiar voices reached you and you caught a glimpse of Gryffindor scars.
«Oi, Y/n!» Sabo’s voice «Can you come here a sec?»
«Yeah, we need help to decide something.» and Sanji.
«We don’t need another opinion! No one will install a freaking compass in my brain!» Zoro barked.
You ducked your head in between your shoulders and ran. Literally, ran.
«Sorry, I’m in a hurry!» you shouted, not looking at them for a second.
Bartolomeo had to actively dodge you.
«Oi, soap-girl…!»
They watched you disappear into the castle.
«What was that?» Zoro asked.
A wrinkle settled between Sabo’s brows.
«I’m not sure.»
You also bumped into someone while hurrying up the stairs and dropped your bag.
Worst timing ever, since you were about to burst.
All you wanted now was your bed.
«Fuck, sorry.» you coughed, still looking away while clumsily collecting your stuff from the ground.
«It’s fine, but… are you okay?»
Drake. Great.
«Yes.»
You grabbed your bag and ran again. Only this time you didn’t slow down, not breaking through a group of girls, not to spit the password to enter Slytherin quarters, not to check who was in the common room, not before entering your dorm until you could finally toss the bag into a corner and dive onto the bed.
You buried your face in the pillow and started crying.
You didn’t know how long you had been crying when you heard the door creaking open and soft steps entering the room. Your fingers crumbled the sheets.
«Y/n?»
Thank god.
The mattress sank lightly when Perona sat beside you.
«What are you doing? Diez Drake found me and said I should come and check on you, what’s that about?»
You swallowed and took a deep breath, then slowly pulled yourself up.
She gasped when she saw your face.
«What happened?!»
Her first reaction was pulling your hair away from your sticky cheeks with gentle fingers. Which only made you cry more.
You dropped on her chest and sobbed. Her thin arms wrapped around you.
«Okay, you’re scaring me. What happened? Did somebody die?»
You shook your head.
«What then?!»
And so you told her. Everything.
Talking about it helped a lot.
Perona was outraged by what happened to you, maybe even hurt a little because you didn’t share all that stuff before but, ultimately, she couldn’t hide how fascinated she was with the possibility of you baring some dark magic inside, or even being the Heir of Slytherin (you only avoided to mention Drake was a Parseltongue too).
Oddly enough, her reaction comforted you. It was like she gave a new spin on the whole scan thing, one that wasn’t completely bad.
She also suggested you had Kid and the others screwing Trafalgar bad, but you decided to pass on the advice and she promised to keep everything to herself.
Overall, you felt much better when you woke up on Sunday. You still didn’t feel like hanging out and opted to spend the day flying instead (of course you checked the weather forecast first).
Being in the air helped clear up your mind, and by the time you got down for dinner, you had decided to tell Kid and his crew as well, everything except the Heir story. You struggled admitting it, but you felt the need of something like Killer and Heat’s quiet support. Maybe even Kid, although that might have been too much to hope for.
You approached them after dinner (while dodging Sabo’s looks in your direction) and Killer suggested using their dorm to talk since they didn’t care kicking out the other guys for some time. Apparently they did that whenever they wanted.
You had been in their room before, especially when you and Killer dragged Kid out of bed on Christmas morning and forced him to celebrate with you. He always used to sit for lunch with his arms crossed and scowl the whole time.
They let you take a seat on Killer’s bed, since it was the neatest, and clustered around you as you talked. Perona joined too.
You felt flustered at being the centre of attention and focused your gaze on the black duvet but eventually made it through.
«So you’re a Parseltongue? Cool!» Kid laughed, leaning against the beam of the bunk bed.
«Yeah, I guess.» you muttered.
«Say something in snaketongue!»
You raised an eyebrow.
«I can’t now, I hardly distinguish it from normal talking anyway.»
He seemed disappointed at that.
«They do think it’s Legilimency then.» Killer mumbled, crossing his legs in front of you «Maybe it’s because of your classes with Prof. Riku.»
«Maybe it’s linked to the nightmares.» Wire added.
Ugh.
«Whatever, that’s some cool shit, Y/n.» Kid grinned.
You clicked your tongue and fumbled with your fingers.
«Yes but… what if they do find something during this scan thing?»
The redhead shrugged.
«So? That only means you’ve some more dope stuff you can do compare to extras.»
Your glanced at him.
«Some dope stuff… you mean dark magic?»
Kid shot you a challenging smirk.
«What if I do?»
«I don’t want to get involved with the Dark Arts!» you blurted.
«Why? Just because everybody says it’s “baaad”?» he mimicked the quote marks with his fingers and the smile disappeared from his face.
Killer turned to him.
«Kid.»
«What?!» the redhead barked, pushing himself away from the bed and nervously walking around the room «They label as “Dark Arts” whatever they don’t fucking understand!»
His fiery eyes darted on you.
«Did you know any Pagan ritual is now considered borderline “dark”? They made themselves the standard and condemn anything different!»
It wasn’t his usual snapping, you could read it in his features. There was a more ancient rage buried into his expression now.
A random memory popped in your mind.
“The Eustass were once great, and now he’s the last heir of a downfallen family”
Heat, Wire and Perona fell silent. Killer sighed.
«I didn’t know that.» you murmured «Although I don’t think that’s what they’re after.»
Kid scoffed and pointed a menacing finger right in your face.
«Whatever they find, don’t you let them putting any fucking restrain on you!»
And with that, he turned away and slammed the door behind his back.
Notes:
Guys, believe me, you’re going to get disappointed by who the uncle is (reveal next chapter). I’m afraid that everyone feels like he’s an epic character, while he’s really not. I even toyed with the idea of changing my original plan and make him Vegapunk, but I’ve decided to stay faithful to what I imagined first.
I want to write the next chapter right away and I may do it because I have a couple of days off. Unfortunately I may get sick tomorrow since I’ve had the first shot of covid vaccine today (YAYYY!), and apparently it’s a common reaction. ^^” We’ll see I guess. I’m still very grateful that I had the opportunity to get vaccinated already.
Hope you all have a great day and thank you for all the support!
Chapter 26: Ancient magic
Notes:
NB. I’ve switched the scan day to Tuesday night for plot’s reasons.
Chapter Text
Sharing at least part of your burden proved to be a good move.
You woke up on Monday morning feeling much lighter than you had in a week.
As you prepared your bag among the other girls getting ready, you decided it was going to be a perfectly normal day, just like the ones to follow. Yes, there was a so-called scan and a Parseltongue test in the middle, but if anything those things were supposed to help and make your days even more regular.
The morning started nicely, you practiced the Patronus with Prof. Akagami, then went on to Charms.
Trafalgar Law sat on the opposite side of the classroom, surrounded by his gang, and never looked your way. Reiju exchanged a glance with you and shook her head.
There was a faint need to set things straight with him in your mind. Even if he didn’t really deserved it, you wanted to apologise for whatever you had seen of his memories and clarify that it wasn’t on purpose.
When the lesson ended and the students started walking out of class, you quickly collected your stuff and tried to reach him, since yeah, you weren’t exactly the patient type.
Maybe he sensed it, because he hastened his strides among his classmates without looking back.
You frowned and pushed your way through, slipping in between Ravens and bumping into a couple of them, but were eventually stopped by a human barrier formed by Bepo, Penguin and Shachi.
Your expression darkened a little when you looked up at them, although apparently it didn’t help bend their resolution.
«Move, guys.» you grunted, straightening your stance.
Penguin opened his mouth to reply but, before he could say anything, a cheerful voice interrupted.
«Miss L/n! How are you doing?»
You turned to see Donquixote Rocinante standing right in front of you with his signature grin. The Ravenclaw guys took the chance to disappear down the stairs and your mouth twitched.
Is this all a conspiracy to keep me away from Trafalgar?
«I’m fine, why?» you sighed, adjusting the bag on your shoulder.
«I just wanted to make sure.» the professor chimed, then he glanced around the classroom to make sure most of the students had left before continuing «I’ll be part of the committee for your scan, so if you have any question or feel the need to talk to someone, feel free to come to me, okay? I know it can sound scary, but we’re all here to help.»
Your eyes sharpened as you studied his expression.
You always liked Rocinante, he looked like a genuine person, but could he really be impartial towards you after what happened with his son at the tournament?
«I’m fine.» you just repeated «Thank you, professor. I have class now.»
«Of course.» he smiled «I’ll see you tomorrow then.»
The Ravenclaw trio remained as a protective armor around Trafalgar for the rest of the day. After a while, you realized you had a Slytherin armor too.
Perona, Killer, Heat and Wire weren’t letting anyone get too close and made sure to talk about any kind of stuff to keep your mind off dark thoughts. Kid remained with the crew but didn’t speak much. He seemed still pissed from the night before, or at least in a serious mood. But he did add his threatening presence when Sabo didn’t seem intimidated by the others and tried to approach you during lunch. You hardly noticed the whole exchange, since you were too busy picking at your sprouts, so you didn’t see how the redhead stepped behind the Gryffindor and incinerated him with his amber eyes until Sabo decided it wasn’t the right time.
It was only after the daily lessons that anxiety started to mount again.
Perona dragged you to the library for a study session and, after Kid left for his late-night telekinesis training, Killer forced you to spend the evening learning how to play Wizard’s Chess, but your mind was so distracted that your pieces were continuously decimated by the blonde’s.
Your friends watched you becoming less talkative by the minute and lost in your thoughts, but none of their efforts seemed to help. Killer and Perona exchanged glances and Heat tried to involve you in a conversation about magical creature power scaling with Wire (usually that worked), to no avail.
At some point you bid everybody good night and retired early. Perona promptly followed you in the dorm.
«Y/n, it’s going to be okay.» she reasoned while you got ready for bed.
«You don’t know that.» you muttered.
«Yes I do! You’ve faced much worse and you always pull it off.»
«This is different.»
«Yeah, in the sense that there’s nothing actively trying to kill you this time!»
«Right.» you let yourself fall on the bed and covered your eyes with your arm «I know. I just want it to be over with. Thankfully I won’t have to wait much longer.»
Perona observed you for a moment, then sighed.
«Okay. You’ll feel better Wednesday morning.»
«Yep.»
Obviously, though, sleep didn’t come.
You spent hours rolling in your sheets, over and over again, even after all the other girls were far asleep and all the lights in the castle were shut down.
Eventually, you grunted in frustration and lifted yourself up from the bed.
There was a thought tormenting you since Principal Whitebeard said you were allowed to be escorted by an adult, and although you knew it was insidious for your own mental health, you could not shake it off.
After all, what was the point of acting brave when you clearly were not?
«Screw it then.» you whispered in the darkness while crawling down the bunk bed.
There was a small, old packet shoved in the double layer of your luggage. Trying to move as quietly as possible not to wake the other girls, you retrieved it and slid out of the room in your pyjamas.
The common room of Slytherin had always been a little spooky at night.
It would have been pitch dark if it weren’t for the blue-greyish glares coming from the depth of the lake. From time to time, shadows passed in front of the large window, but the black waters made it impossible to distinguish what kind of creature was swimming around.
Your bare feet touched the cold floor and you shivered, suddenly regretting not bringing a blanket with you.
The silence was absolute but you still sneaked around to make sure nobody was in the room before wielding your wand.
«Incendio.»
The numerous candles scattered on the furniture lit up, filling the hall with quivering shadows.
You kneeled in front of the fireplace, now beaming with flames, and held up the small packet.
It took a deep breath to calm your nerves a little, although your heart kept pounding.
Your cold fingers reached out in the packet, took up a handful of powder and threw it in the fire.
Please, be there.
The flames crackled before turning green. The heath waned off.
You grabbed the edge of the fireplace and swallowed.
Damn, I hate fire.
«Oh, fuck it.»
Gritting your teeth, you forced yourself to shove your head in.
Ashes and smoke filled your throat and nostrils but you still shouted the address as clearly as you could before breaking into a fit of cough.
It lasted a few seconds, then the smoke cleared out and you managed to blink the now weak flames away as a vision slowly took form in front of you.
A large office, with walls made of stone bricks, expensive tapestry, libraries, and an oak desk taking up the side. High and elaborate candlesticks stood at each corner of the room, sending feeble, dancing lights across the enclosed space.
You had only limited sight from your angle but a wave of relief washed over your chest when you noticed a pair of long legs crossed over an armchair you couldn’t fully see, and that unmistakable yellow and orange suit.
«Uncle?» you called, hopeful.
The legs moved, the sound of a heavy book being closed and a familiar voice echoing in your ears.
«Ouu, is it Y/n?»
The tall man stood and you watched him walking by the fireplace. He calmly reached the chair and dragged it so he could sit in front of you, and you rolled your eyes at all the time he took.
«What a surprise.» he commented with his slurred voice, bending one of his legs and resting his foot on the other knee «Is everything well in Hogwarts? Did you cause some ruckus again?»
You frowned, the uncomfortable feeling of the fire enveloping your face making you wince.
«No, I didn’t do anything. I just wanted to talk to you about this scan thing.»
«Ooooh, yes.» he tilted his head to the side «How did that go?»
«It’s tomorrow, actually.»
«Mmmh, you could have sent an owl then.»
«You never reply to owls!» you snapped.
The tall wizard scratched his thin moustaches.
«I don’t? Well, you know I don’t do well with technology.»
«There’s nothing technological about owls!»
The comment only caused him to chuckle.
You closed your eyes and sighed. There was no point arguing with that man, you’d known it since childhood.
«Doesn’t matter. Listen, uncle B, I know I shouldn’t get agitated for this, but… well, they said I could ask a trusted adult to be there, and since I don’t really know what to expect, I was wondering if you could… you know,» you swallowed «maybe you could accompany me and stay there while they do it?»
«Mmmh…»
The wizard observed you from behind his lenses, fingers still massaging the sparse beard. His eyes didn’t seem focused on you tough, but rather looking at some random spot in the fire.
«You know I’m a busy man, Pumpkin.» he finally said «If you wanted me there you should have asked earlier.»
You felt your heart dropping to your stomach.
«But I only came to know it two days ago, and–»
He waved your excuses off with his hand.
«Besides, you don’t really need an adult for this. You’ll be barely conscious the entire time.»
«Yes but–»
«And you’ve always been a brave kid, mmh? Or better, you’re not a kid anymore.»
You opened your mouth to say something else, but you found yourself giving up before the words could come.
The wizard stood and walked to a wooden closet, from where he poured himself a drink.
«Would that be all, Pumpkin? Sentomaru is bugging me with this report I need to finish.»
«Sure…» your eyes flicked down «Just, uncle, hum… you don’t think they’ll find something bad, right?»
He puckered his lips in thought as he circled the room to come back in front of you.
«Hmm… whatever they find, they’ll be able to handle it. Hogwarts has very skilful professors.»
Yeah, it’s not them I am worried about.
«Also, since we established you’re not a kid anymore, maybe you can start calling me Borsalino.»
You frowned.
«But Sentomaru calls you “uncle” all the time and you aren’t even related!»
«Oh, that’s true.» he chuckled before sipping from his drink «Well, it was nice seeing you, Y/n. I won’t be home for Christmas, but feel free to use the mansion. Invite your friends over, if you wish.»
You sighed, heavy disappointment clouding in your chest.
«Fine. Bye, unc… Borsalino.»
«Bye, Pumpkin.»
You shut your eyes and pulled yourself away from the fire. After a few seconds, the flames turned red again and the heath slapped your face.
You stayed like that for around a minute, kneeling by the fireplace, fingers clumsily toying with the packet in your hands. You didn’t even bother to wipe away the two single tears that ran down your cheeks. There was nobody to see them anyway.
It was stupid, you knew it. You always knew he wasn’t going to give you what you wanted. And still you tried. Over and over again, since you were a little kid. With drawings, the first magic, the first good marks, again and again trying to get his attention, impress him with anything. Yet all you could remember were his long legs passing you by, a chuckle and a pat on the head. But his eyes never lingered on you.
Your blurred gaze fell on the powder. You might have as well thrown it away.
The telekinesis session ended even later than usual, that night.
It wasn’t really a problem though, because Kid had a special permit to cross the castle after the curfew for his lessons, as long as he returned straight to his House. Of course he had bent the rule quite a few times, that was why Prof. Edward Thatch often insisted to walk him. For “safety reasons”. Yeah, safety for the rest of the castle.
Either way, he was tired but satisfied as he crossed the gallery to Slytherin chambers. He was evolving fast. He wondered whether Trafalgar was just as good. Judging by the stunt he played on you during the Duelling Tournament, he was already to the point of using his tricks in battle.
Kid stepped in the hallway, ready to shed some light with his wand but was surprised to notice the crackling glares of fire coming from the common room. Who the hell was up that late?
A familiar voice reached him before he could turn the corner.
«…I was wondering if you could… you know, maybe you could accompany me and stay there while they do it?»
He didn’t know why he stopped. Normally he wasn’t the kind of guy that eavesdrop, and it wasn’t his intention, and yet… that conversation seemed too intimate to be interrupted, even if it was just to cross the room and go to his dorm.
Plus your voice sounded weird, maybe… thinner than usual?
«Damn…» he lowly grunted, letting himself go against the wall.
The replies coming from the other side of the fire were muffled, but still distinguishable.
Kid didn’t know who your uncle was, but he felt an immediate aversion for the guy. Who the hell he thought he was to shut you down like that? You, who never asked for help or assistance, not even when your life was on the line. Since he had met you, you always acted like it was normal to do everything by yourself. Now maybe he understood why.
It wasn’t like Kid had a family to depend on, but he couldn’t say he was alone either. Killer had been by his side for most of his life, and relying on him felt so natural he hardly noticed it anymore.
When the magic link was interrupted, Kid waited to hear your steps climbing up the stairs. He frowned when no sound came.
Slowly, the redhead leaned over to take a peek into the common room.
You were still in front of the fireplace, shoulder slumped, barely moving. Then he heard a choked sob, which had him jerk back behind the corner and flatten against the wall. Something crumbled in his chest and he winced.
«Fuck.»
Give him an army of troll, and he would laugh in their face.
But this, he definitely wasn’t equipped for.
Okay Y/n, you’ve been dwelling into self-pity long enough.
You shook your head and took a deep breath.
«Oi.»
The low voice almost gave you a heart attack.
You jumped to your feet and turned in a twitch, hand clinging to your oversized T-shirt.
«KID!» you gasped, heart racing into your chest.
He stood at the entrance in all his height, the Slytherin uniform still hanging from his figure and his amber eyes staring at you.
When did he arrive?
You suddenly became very aware of the state of your face and your fingers ran up to wipe your cheeks.
«I was, uuh… making some tea.» you rambled, brusquely turning towards the adjacent kitchen «I couldn’t sleep, so I came down. Do you want some?»
«No.»
Your brows furrowed. It was strange for Kid to be this quiet, but you didn’t turn to him, busying yourself with kettle and stoves instead.
«Oh, okay, just me then.» you forcefully chimed «Goodnight!»
But he didn’t go anywhere. You still felt his burning gaze stuck to your back.
«Is there something I can help you with?» you irritably asked after a few seconds. That really wasn’t the time.
«Why are you so scared?»
«Excuse me?»
You turned to glare at him with humid eyes. Your hair was messily falling around your face and your cheeks were probably red, but you couldn’t care less now.
Kid didn’t seem intimidated.
«You heard me.»
«I’m not scared!»
«Oh, please.» he threw his bag on the closest armchair «You look like a terrified kitten!»
«Well, why don’t you mind your own business?!»
«I would, but you’re in the way of me going to sleep.»
Your gaze sharpened.
«Oh, sure, how rude of me to be here!» you turned off the stove with an angry movement «Let me get off your way then.»
Kid gritted his teeth as you marched past him, his eyes shutting briefly before he cursed under his breath.
«Y/n, wait.»
«What now?!»
You shot him another glare from the bottom of the stairs.
The redhead snorted and lost the black tunic, remaining in his pants and red sweater.
«I’ve never done this myself, so I can’t promise it’ll work.» he grumbled, grabbing his wand and motioning for you to approach «Now come here before I change my mind.»
You eyed the wand with a frown.
«What are you doing?»
«Come on, sprite, I don’t have all night!»
A hint of curiosity entered your bad mood. That wasn’t really like Kid. Or maybe it was.
Slowly, you walked down the few stairs and approached him.
«Okaaay, I’m here. Now what?.»
He grimaced, like he didn’t really want to be there.
«Hold your hand out.»
«What?»
«Your hand!»
You hesitantly complied and he grabbed your wrist, pulling you closer with a curt tug.
You swallowed.
It was suddenly very warm in the room. Your face was heating up fast.
Kid peered down at you for a moment before his eyes darted aside and he scoffed. You noticed his ears were turning red too.
«Now don’t talk and don’t move until I’m done.» he growled «I’m going off my memory here, so I’m not sure what will happen.»
You looked up at him in suspicion.
«Are you gonna kill me?»
«Maybe, if you don’t shut up.»
With a nervous flick of his wand, Kid killed off all the candles. In a second, the shadows from the lake were all you could see.
«Okay, now I’m pretty sure you’re going to kill me.»
His grip squeezed your wrist and you gasped.
«I swear to god, sprite.»
You heard his wand falling on the small table nearby.
No wand?
Then he started.
A low, guttural chant that you never heard before.
Well, you never heard Kid chanting before. And it wasn’t even understandable, that…
Your eyes widened in the darkness as you realized.
Gaelic.
Scottish Gaelic, to be precise.
You knew Kid could speak it, he sometimes used it with Killer when they didn’t want to be understood, but you had no idea he could do more than that.
His voice was gruff and insecure at first, but as he went, it grew steadier and limpid.
The air around you became ticker.
More creatures were agitating in the waters beyond the window, as if the chant was attracting them. You could see their restless shadows multiplying on the walls. Then the temperature started rising, for real this time.
«Kid…»
He gave another squeeze to your wrist and you pressed your lips together.
Your heart was pounding again.
The merfolk of the lake were now responding to his chant.
The air began trembling, like an earthquake was mounting.
Instinctively, your other hand grabbed his sweater.
Shit, shit, shit.
Then his finger traced a few lines on your palm and his touch set your skin on fire.
You winced in pain and closed your hand but he didn’t let you go. Instead, he repeated the same gesture on your forehead.
You tried to jerk away but he curtly pulled you back.
«Kid, what the fuck!» you hissed.
«Le seo tha mi gad chuir fo dhìon nan seann dhiathan.»
His hand was suddenly on the back of your head and he pushed you forward. Your fingers clenched around his clothes and something soft pressed against your burning forehead.
Your breath got stuck in your throat when you realized it was his mouth.
The pain immediately turned into warmth and radiated from his lips to the rest of your body, flowing down to your core and pumping through your veins.
«Cha dèan dad cron ort gus am faic sinn a chèile a-rithist.»
You closed your eyes, savouring the wholesome relief expanding inside you.
Then he stepped back and everything fell silent.
Like a switch was hit, the echoes disappeared, the temperature dropped and the air was still again.
But you weren’t cold, nor scared.
«Incendio.»
You blinked as the fireplace flared back to life, the shadow of the flames dancing on the walls. Your eyes fell on your palm, but there were no signs on it.
Kid was giving his back at you, busy collecting his stuff from the armchair. By the movement of his shoulders, he seemed a little out of breath.
You touched your forehead. The skin felt smooth under your fingertip.
«Kid, you…»
«As I said, I never did it before, so I’m not sure it worked.» he muttered without turning.
No, it definitely worked. Or at least it did… something.
«And what did you do, exactly?»
«I just placed an ancient rune on you.»
Your eyebrows flicked up.
«How do you know this kind of magic?»
There was a pause.
«My mother.»
Oh.
The redhead hoisted is bag and tunic on his shoulder and swiftly headed for the stairs.
«I never practiced this stuff much, so the spell is weak and probably flawed, but it should hold for a day.» he grumbled, eyes fixed in front of him.
You almost had to chase him to get all the words.
«Yeah… and what is the spell supposed to do?»
His mouth twitched in annoyance.
«It’s a rune for protection, it’s supposed to hold until next time we meet. Dunno if it works though. I won’t be in class tomorrow since I have an extra telekinesis session, so I will probably see you after your scan-thing.»
You froze on your steps.
So that’s why he did it.
He must have heard the conversation with my uncle before.
You watched him quickly climbing the stairs to the male dorm.
«Kid, wait!»
«What now?!»
«Thank you.»
The young wizard stopped and shot you a glare over his shoulder. Then he scoffed and moved on.
«Tch. Crybaby.»
That night, your fingers were still brushing your forehead when you finally fell asleep.
Chapter 27: Scanned
Chapter Text
Killer exchanged a confused glance with Heat over your head while you leaned down to happily consume your meal.
«Today’s breakfast is not bad at all!» you chimed, tongue darting out to collect some porridge from your lip «That’s good, I really need all the energy I can get.»
Perona frowned, watching you eat with enthusiasm. Not once in six years she had seen you so beaming that early in the morning.
«Y/n, a question.» she started, leaning over the table to get closer «Did you take an anxiolytic potion or something? Remember when you tried to make one for that long-nose guy in Gryffindor, that didn’t go very well.»
«Mph, what are ya talking about?» you mumbled with your mouth full «You know I suck at Potions, I couldn’t possibly attempt that in one night!»
«Right…»
Perona leaned back and her eyes trailed onto Killer, who shook his head.
After seeing you so devoured by anxiety just the night before, it was clear something major had changed.
«Did you ask Gambia to fix you up with something?» Heat quietly asked.
«Wha--? No!» you swallowed the last bite and dropped the fork on the plate «I’m fine guys, I just figured it wasn’t worth worrying too much, okay? Let’s go now, we don’t wanna be late for Prof. Donquixote.»
«Sure…»
Your group mixed with the crowd exiting the Great Hall and distributing into the various flights of stairs. Perona slowed down to walk beside Killer, just behind you.
«What kind of magic remedy do you thing she messed around with?» she whispered.
The blonde shrugged.
«Maybe she just snapped.»
«That’s way worse!»
Transfiguration proceeded smoothly, and Charms after that.
Despite both classes being shared with Ravenclaw, you didn’t even look at Trafalgar’s way, this time.
After all, he had been nothing but unpleasant towards you since the beginning of the year, so he could stew in his misery for all you cared. You had more pressing matters at the moment anyway.
«Hey, Killer.» you called, walking out the castle to reach the greenhouse.
He turned to you.
«You speak Gaelic, right?»
His concealed eyebrow flicked below his thick bangs.
«Scottish Gaelic, kind of.» he confirmed «It would be more accurate to say I understand it though. I can’t actually speak it much.»
«Really?»
Now that he mentioned it, you had never seen him start a conversation in that mysterious language. It was mostly Kid talking and Killer nodding, sometimes replying with a few sparse words.
«I see. Where did you learn?»
He remained silent for some time and you regretted asking. It could sound like an innocent question, but Killer rarely said anything about his past, and his blue eyes normally incinerated whomever dared bringing it up.
You were about to backtrack when he finally spoke.
«Kid taught it to me when we were children.» he simply said.
What?
Your eyes widened.
It was hard to picture Kid teaching anything of the sort to anyone, especially not as a child. You always thought they simply came from a region where Gaelic was still a school subject.
«Why the curiosity, all of a sudden?» Killer calmly asked, proceeding towards the greenhouses.
«Huh, nothing, I just wondered, since Kid often curses in Gaelic.»
The blond hummed but didn’t press it further.
A little nervousness began to plague your mind again later that evening as the time of the scan approached. The guys remained nearby most of the time, but this time they didn’t try to distract you or get you to talk about it. They simply hung out around you in the common room of Slytherin as the clock ticked forward.
Kid was busy with telekinesis practice the whole day and he never appeared. You subtly tried to check your palm a few times, but the outline of the rune couldn’t be distinguished anymore.
When the time came, you took a deep breath and stood from the small sofa.
«You sure you have to go alone? Can’t we come with you?» Perona asked with a tinge of concern.
You shook your head.
«No, they said only a tutor or something could accompany me. Meh, who needs adults anyway, right?»
«I can still walk with you though.» she stubbornly said, rising to her feel as well.
«You don’t have to--»
«I will!»
You blinked, then a faint smile curved your lips.
«Fine.»
«Be careful coming back, both of you. People are all fired up about this Triwizard thing.» Killer said, watching you leave.
You waved at your friends before heading out of the House with Perona. You could hardly set foot outside, however, before a familiar voice stopped you on your track.
«Last minute as always, Miss L/n.»
Doflamingo was leaning against the stone door of the dungeon.
«Professor?» Perona gasped, stepping behind you.
He offered you his sly smirk and stood.
«Thank you for your thoughtfulness, Miss Gekko, but your presence won’t be required.»
The girl frowned in confusion and you faced the blond.
«What do you mean, professor? I don’t have a “trusted adult”, so I can at least have a friend walking with me!»
Doflamingo scoffed but the sinister smirk never left his lips.
«You don’t need it, because you do have a trusted adult. Or you meant to say that you don’t trust me, Miss L/n?»
«You…?»
«Of course no one can prevent Miss Gekko to walk with us, if she insists.» the wizard added, although his words now harboured a hint of annoyance.
Perona swallowed and backed down immediately.
«I don’t insist. So, huh, see you later, Y/n.»
You were still quite confused as you bid her goodbye. She had hardly disappeared beyond the stone door when Doflamingo started walking up the stairs.
«Stop lingering, Y/n, we don’t have all night.»
You clicked your tongue and shuffled behind him.
«Wait, professor! Aren’t you part of the scan committee anyway?»
He didn’t slow down.
«As an expert of transfiguration, my skills are not needed for such procedure. In fact, I wasn’t even invited.» he quickly glanced at you behind his shoulder «I’ll be there as your tutor instead.»
Oh, so that’s how it is. He wants a chance to assist.
«Are you even allowed to do that?» you muttered.
«When you confirm it, yes»
…you didn’t ask me tho.
Despite his agenda, you had to admit you felt a little reassured by his presence.
You followed Doflamingo through the castle, towards the West Tower. Curfew was close, and fewer students were still roaming the corridors, mostly directed to their own houses. No further words were exchanged until you reached your destination.
Doflamingo led you to an area of the West Tower that was normally forbidden to students, near Professor Fushicho’s office. Behind a heavy stone door, there was a quarter reserved to research, apparently. A couple of laboratories, a storage, and a wide room that looked like it was previously dedicated to teaching, given the old benches and desks gathered against two of the walls. The remaining perimeter was lined with libraries filled with ancient tomes. A big desk that resembled an altar was set near the ample window, the nigh beyond, and sumptuous armchairs designed a circle around a small sofa.
You barely registered all the details as you followed Doflamingo in, because your attention was immediately diverted to the people inside.
The armchairs were all occupied by professors: Corazon, Nico Robin, Dracule and Akagami. The Headmaster himself was standing by the altar, and, in front of him was maybe the most beautiful woman you had ever seen.
As the door closed behind you, most people turned to your direction. You lingered behind Doflamingo’s robe.
«Is that…?»
«The Kuja Empress, yes.» he completed «Apparently they always bring in the higher ranks for you, Miss L/n.»
You clicked your tongue, a clouded expression taking up your features.
«Believe me, professor, I’d be happy to give them up.» you muttered.
Doflamingo smirked but didn’t reply, stepping aside to expose you to the room.
Whitebeard turned to you with a smile, but your focus was still on the tall witch. She glanced your way, her lips twitching in annoyance and her chin tilting so high she might as well have glanced at the ceiling.
«Welcome, lass!» the Headmaster exclaimed with his impetuous voice «This is Boa Hancock. Miss Hancock is here to officially assess whether you’re a Parseltongue.»
The witch rolled her eyes, not bothering to hide her peeve for one second. She had impossibly long, shiny black hair, tapered cat-eyes and a red robe that exposed a generous portion of her perfect forms. It was hard to avert your eyes from her glacial beauty.
«Professor Donquixote. I see you accompanied Miss L/n.»
You blinked as Whitebeard addressed Doflamingo, his tone less warm now.
The blonde only shrugged.
«Her uncle was not available, so I’m here to assist as her trusted adult.»
Whitebeard hummed and his gaze moved to you.
«Is that true, Y/n?»
«Huh, yes.»
You had the impression the Headmaster let out a brief, quiet sigh.
«Very well.» he addressed Doflamingo again «You may stay and watch from the sidelines, but I must ask you not to interfere with the process.»
«As long as Y/n is safe, I don’t see why I should.» the other professor replied, his smirk never wavering. Then he gave you a curt nod and moved by the armchair occupied by Corazon.
The latter was grinning at you, but as soon as his brother approached, his smile disappeared and the two exchanged a dry greet.
«Oi, wench.»
Your attention was drawn by the unknown voice and you realized Boa Hancock had called for you.
«Sit, so we can get this over with.» she demanded, pointing at the couch with an impatient gesture.
You winched at her manners but didn’t retort. You wanted to get it over with as well, after all.
«I want you to know, old man, that this is really below my tasks.» she told Whitebeard as you took your seat «Making me come all this way, just because Hogwarts doesn’t allow Apparition. If it weren’t you asking, and if I weren’t bound to the Ministry’s rules, I would never have come.»
«Yeah, yeah, we all appreciate it.» Whitebeard replied, walking behind the altar «You may proceed.»
She scoffed and turned to you. You swallowed.
«So, are you going to talk to me in Parseltongue or--»
«Salome.»
You frowned at her weird interruption, but a huge snake immediately crawled into the room from the half-open window.
«Holy shit!»
You jumped on top of the sofa, eyes glued to the creature.
It must have been at least fifteen feet once it coiled on the floor, with a mane of teal feathers and blue-greenish scales.
An occamy!
The snake raised his big head to her master, and the woman pointed at you with a quick wave of her hair. That was enough for the creature.
Slowly but surely it uncoiled and started crawling towards you.
«Hum, are we all aware that there’s an occamy coming at me, yes?» you murmured, collecting your legs on top of the sofa. No one seemed really interested in stopping it though.
«Hey, do I have to fight it, or…?»
From your Care for Magical Creatures studies, you knew occamies were generally aggressive creatures. Once it became too close for your liking, you reached for your wand, but the snake suddenly darted with fulminous speed and wrapped around you, pressing you in between his coil.
His body was heavy and cold, and you gritted your teeth.
«Wh-What the fuck!» you coughed.
The occamy hardly noticed your struggle, instead, it came up to your face and pressed his muzzle against your ear.
«Ssstop fighting, little girl. My massster is displeased. It’sss your fault.»
You groaned, still try to break free, but you only obtained for it to squeeze tighter.
«But I know your darkessst sssecret now, and I will tell her.»
You stopped.
My darkest secret?
«That’sss right. I can sssee it in your mind.»
A grimace tugged at your mouth and your rabid eyes flicked on Boa Hancock.
She was standing there, looking at you like you would look at a disgusting insect that ruined your day. But this time, you repaid her gaze with the same scorn.
«Then you know what I’m thinking right now!» you spat «Go fuck yourself, old hag.»
Her blue eye widened and the snake’s grip suddenly tightened so much that the air escaped your lungs and you started coughing.
«Miss Hancock!»
«Salome, enough.»
In an instant, all the pressure around you was released, and the occamy retreated by her master.
You fell on the couch, wheezing to regain your breath.
«Yes, as you all could see, this wench here is a Parselmouth.» Hancock declared, adjusting her hair behind her shoulder «An insolent one, too. What a waste of the gift.»
«Insolent, me?!» you uttered, voice still a little hoarse «Your animal attacked and threated me, what did you expect?!»
«At least she’s not a coward, I guess. Although her head will be rolling right now, if we were in my domain.» she shrugged, turning to Whitebeard «What’s so special about this girl that I had to come personally, old man? And without any witness from the Ministry too. Not that I’m complaining about that.»
«As you can see, she’s a little old to be examined, her circumstances are peculiar. I assure you, the Ministry will be properly informed.»
«As if I cared. If we’re done, Let me sign the documents as I let myself out.»
Whitebeard nodded.
«Of course, you’ll find my assistant waiting outside. Thank you for your cooperation.»
The woman snorted and walked away, the occamy crawling behind her.
«Come on, Salome.»
«Wait, Miss Hancock!» Corazon jumped from his armchair, hurrying behind her «I thought you may want to know about Margaret, the student from your tribe, she’s graduating this year, a very promising witch, and--»
«I don’t care about that little traitor!» Hancock snapped, stopping on her path to ferociously glare at him «The sole fact that she’s here is a betrayal of our Creed. Now, if you excuse me, I can’t wait to be far from here.»
Corazon pouted, taken aback by such reaction, but he retracted.
«Of course. Have a safe travel then.»
She didn’t bother to look back and finally disappeared across the door.
«What a horrible woman.» you commented.
The boisterous laugh of Professor Akagami nearly startled you.
«Well done, Y/n!» he chimed «Have you seen the face on that witch when our little troublemaker hissed back? What on earth did you tell her?»
I guess I really hissed there. I wish I could realize when I do… maybe Drake could help me on that.
«I… don’t think I should repeat such things in front of my professors.»
You answer only caused more laughter from Shanks. Even Doflamingo and Whitebeard had to conceal a chuckle.
«Don’t worry about whatever the serpent said.» Nico Robin added softly «The exam is designed to get a strong reaction from the examinee.»
So the whole “darkest secret” thing was probably just a bluff… what a weird test.
«All right, if that’s out of the way then, we shall proceed with our business.» the Headmaster stated, clapping his hand.
The door opened again and Miss Viola walked in.
She was an associated professor that you were fairly familiar with, since you had regular training sessions in Occlumency with her. She was the one that thought you how to keep the nightmares away and, at worst, not to engage with them.
Viola was walking with grace in her long robe, as she always did, but she faltered once she spotted Doflamingo among the others.
«Doffy! I didn’t expect to see you.»
What… “Doffy”?!
«Well, of course I am here. Y/n is a promising hatchling of my House, after all.»
«I hope this won’t be an issue, Miss Viola.» Whitebeard commented warningly.
«Of course not.» she swiftly replied, her composure once again intact.
The witch walked over you and smiled, crouching by the couch.
«Hi, Y/n. How are you?»
«Just fabulous, obviously. What’s next?»
«I’m going to make you sleep now, so the other professors can proceed with the examination. Have they explained to you what will happen?»
«More or less.»
«We’ll create a magic field that will comb through your body and mind.» Nico Robin intervened «If there’s any trace of dark magic inside you, we will find it, and possibly remove it.»
Meanwhile, Shanks and Mihawk had risen from their seats and had started placing black stones around you. Only then you noticed there was a white circle on the floor, and the sofa was in the middle of it.
«What are they doing?»
«This would serve to contain some kind of curses, but pay no mind to it, it’s merely a formality.»
You took a deep breath and turned to Viola.
«What will I feel?»
«Hopefully nothing. At most, it should be a mild discomfort in your sleep.»
«Will I dream?»
«Probably not. But if you do, just let the dream wash over you, whatever it is, okay? Just like we learnt.»
You nodded and she placed a gentle hand on your shoulder.
«Remember that we’re here to protect you, Y/n.»
«Okay. Let’s do it.»
The couch was soft as you lay down. Violet pulled out her clear wand and leaned the tip against your forehead. As your subconscious started to take over your mind, your last glance rolled over to Doflamingo, to the side. It was hard to distinguish his eyes behind the shades, but an imperceptible hint of his head told you he realized.
The magic flowed from Viola’s wand into your mind until she was sure you were completely asleep on the couch. Then she stood and took a step back.
«Gentlemen, let’s begin.» Shanks announced.
Corazon, Nico Robin and Mihawk joined him around you and raised their wands, while Doflamingo circled back the room to stand by the altar with Whitebeard and Viola.
«I’m warning you now, Donquixote,» Whitebeard rumbled, eyes fixed on his colleagues as they all closed theirs and started chanting Latin words «If you have your eyes on Y/n, you better give up. She’s not the kind of witch that would ever join your shady family business.»
«I could tell you the same thing, Headmaster.» the professor replied, crossing his arms «Y/n is not a straggler looking for a “pops”.»
«Hmpf. I know.»
A purple magic field slowly took shape around you, the different flows knitting from wand to wand. When the glowing mesh was complete, it began to envelope you, eventually filtering through your sleeping figure. First the legs, then your hips, your stomach and so on.
Whitebeard moved beside Nico Robin.
«How is it going?»
The witch didn’t open her eyes and kept her focus firm.
«Nothing out of the ordinary so far.»
It was around your torso that the magic field slowed down, like it was getting caught into something.
Rocinante’s brows twitched.
«Having problems there, brother?»
«Not quite.» Corazon replied, arms still raised to maintain the charm «Her configuration is… peculiar. It’s like, there are a lot of empty spaces. But no trace of dark magic.»
Like a filter that passed through you, only the wielders of the field could sense all the vibrations and obstacles encountered by the magic.
«Of course she’s out of the ordinary, but there’s nothing dark about this girl.» Shanks said with a smile.
«It’s way too early to tell.» Mihawk warned «We haven’t reached the mind yet.»
Viola watched the charm difficultly sliding through you, her fingers curled behind her back as she waited for it to be over with no setbacks. So her heart thumped when the field finally came to a stop around your head.
Doflamingo saw the frowns on his colleagues’ faces.
«What is going on?»
Shanks clicked his tongue.
«Dammit.»
«What’s “dammit”, boy?» Whitebeard asked.
«A seal.» Nico Robin clarified «Something is blocking us.»
Doflamingo turned to Corazon.
«A seal? What does it mean? Who put it there?»
«Calm down, brother.» the other grumbled, effort now beginning to show on his face «We should be able to get around it.»
«Then do it!»
«Stop hasting us.» Mihawk ordered «We are going to need all our concentration to break through without hurting the girl.»
Doflamingo gritted his teeth but didn’t retort.
Minutes passed by, but the magic field didn’t move an inch. The only thing that increased was the strain on the wielders’ features. Then you let out a groan and your forehead creased.
«What are you doing?» Viola whispered, walking around the circle to better see you.
«I’m trying to see how much I can push.» Shanks said, without smiling this time.
«She’s starting to hurt.»
«It’s strange.» Mihawk murmured.
«What’s strange, Hawkey?» the redhead asked.
«This seal. I can’t understand what type of magic it is. Nico Robin?»
«I’m not sure either.»
Whitebeard frowned.
If there was someone he could turn to when it came to types of magic from all ages, that would be Nico Robin and Dracule Mihawk.
Your body tensed up and you let out a ragged moan of pain.
«Akagami.» Doflamingo growled.
Shanks gritted his teeth and pushed his wand further, generating a wave through the field that crashed against the glitch. You flinched and started breathing heavily.
«Shanks, we should retreat.» Corazon warned, his hands trembling lightly.
«Not yet.»
«She is in pain.»
«She can take it!»
Your heavy breaths became laments, your limbs now squirming on the sofa.
«That’s enough!» Doflamingo barked, hand lowering on his wand.
«Donquixote is right. Disengage.»
Shanks grunted.
«Fuck. Fine.»
The four wizards began to retreat, but their movements suddenly came to an halt.
«What’s going on now?»
A moment of silence.
«We’re stuck.» Corazon hissed.
«What do you mean you’re stuck?!»
«If we retreat our magic, we may rip off the seal,» Nico Robin explained «with unknown consequences.»
Your ragged breathing raised in volume until it was clear that you weren’t taking in any oxygen anymore. Your nails dug into the sofa before your body was finally taken by convulsions.
«Fuck!»
«She can’t breathe!» Viola shouted.
Whitebeard extracted his wand and swiftly turned to her.
«Get Marco, now!»
«We can’t disengage safely!» Robin exclaimed.
«We must--»
All of a sudden, golden flames burst from your forehead and through their magic threads, quickly causing them to dissolve and sending a shock wave crashing against the walls of the room in every direction. Everybody was pushed to the floor. The only person who managed to withstand it on his feet was Whitebeard.
«What the hell did just happen?!» Shanks uttered, jumping up.
«Y/n!»
Viola and Nico Robin hurried by your side as sparkles of golden ashes danced in the air around you.
You were sprawled on your back, face coated in sweat, but at least you were panting normally. A golden rune flickered on your forehead for a few seconds before disappearing.
Viola knelt beside you, her fingers brushing your damp hair away from your eyes.
«This is…»
«Algiz, the ancient rune for protection.» Robin completed, stepping beside her «Quite a raw application of it, I must say, but powerful nevertheless.»
Corazon ran to join them.
«Is she okay?!»
«So it seems, yes.»
«So she’s able to use pagane rituals?! And she used it upon herself?!»
«That’s impossible.» Mihawk intercepted, standing up «Such rune can only be bestowed upon by someone else to hold any effect.»
«Then who…?»
Rocinante turned to look at his brother. Whitebeard did the same, a serious expression on his face.
«Young Eustass.»
Doflamingo shrugged.
«Possible, given his background. Although I had no idea he could do something like this.»
«Well, it’s wise of him not to go around flaunting his pagane skills, given the current circumstances.» Mihawk observed «Unless you live out of pacts with the Ministry, like the Kujas, the practicing of ancient magic can put you on a red list.»
«Well, this won’t be the case,» Whitebeard rumbled, glaring at his professors «because nobody here is going to report it, right?»
«Right.»
«More importantly, what do we do with Y/n?» Corazon asked.
The Headmaster looked at Shanks and the redhead shook his head.
«I’m sorry I tried to push her, but chances are this would have happened either way, since we couldn’t disengage once touched the seal. What I can tell you is that’s nothing like I’ve ever seen before. I can’t officially recognize it as dark arts, it could be something entirely different.»
Mihawk turned to Robin.
«What do you think?»
She rubbed her chin.
«It’s probably very obscure, but I might have encountered something similar in my studies. I’ll have to research it.»
Hawkeyes nodded.
«Of course, I’ll do the same.»
«How dangerous do you think it is?» Whitebeard asked, to no one in particular.
«Hard to say. The good news is that, if left alone, it doesn’t seem to be causing harm to her. Anything else can only be established with further research.» Robin continued.
Whitebeard nodded.
«I understand. We’ll see what to do then.» his eyes moved on your resting figure «For now, not a word of this must be spoken with outsiders.»
«Yes, Headmaster.»
«And get her damn uncle here with urgency,» he added «I need to have a word with him.»
Chapter 28: End of the night
Notes:
A/N. Hey guys! Sorry for the long absence and sorry for this very brief chapter I came back with. 😭
As some of you may know, I took a break from writing because I was working on my PhD thesis. Now that one is completed, so I’m easing back in before I start posting Bonds in a few weeks. UNFORTUNATELY, as I went back to write this chapter, I realized that I lost the notepad where I had all my notes for Mudblood!! I think I left it at work, anyway I will find it (and even if I don’t, I can still continue with the story, don’t worry. I made those notes once, I can do it again).
ANYWHO I didn’t want to leave you guys hanging any longer, so have this little chapter. It’s not much, but it’s helping me coming back little by little.
Thank you all for being so patient and supporting with me. ❤️
Chapter Text
«Water or fire. You can choose, little Y/n.»
«What a lucky girl!»
«Such an honor!»
«Come along now.»
…
«Wait.»
…
«Where’s daddy?»
Your eyes snapped open and you gasped raggedly, finally able to breathe. Your lungs felt on fire and your limbs were… numb, stinging.
«Y/n?»
You blinked a couple of times then raised your face.
A wide office with dim lights, mostly the moon beyond the big windows, an ancient desk, books, plants, models of the solar system. Chakra maps, constellations, floral guides and pictures of the human body were covering the walls. The ceiling glowed with a model of the milky way, lazily coiling on itself.
Your gaze wandered around the room before landing on the man leaning beside you.
«Here, drink this-yoi.»
Professor Fushichō offered you a porcelain cup.
You frowned, trying to collect your memories.
What the hell happened? I remember a beautiful woman, the occamy… right, the scan!
As soon as you shifted on the little couch, you realized your clothes were soaked in sweat.
«Take it easy.»
Finally, you took the cup from the professor’s hands. Its warmth was welcomed on your idle skin. The colour of the liquid was deep blue.
«It’s an Dusk Tea. It’ll help release the tension.»
«What happened?»
«The scan had a heavier toll on your body than we expected-yoi.»
The new voice almost startled you.
Nico Robin came forward from the shadows of the room.
«Okay, is there anybody else in here?» you asked, looking around.
Marco chuckled.
«No, but the headmaster and the Donquixotes are just outside my office. We can call them, if you wish.»
So this is Prof. Fushichō’s office. One of the few I hadn’t visited yet.
«It’s fine, just tell me what happened. Is it even the same day?» you tiredly grumbled before taking a sip of the concoction.
The flavour was light, with a note of bittersweet aftertaste spreading slowly from the back of your tongue.
«Yes, we finished just a couple of hours ago.» Nico Robin spoke, taking a seat on the coffee table in front of you.
«And? How’d that go?»
The two teachers exchanged a look you didn’t like.
«We weren’t able to complete the examination.» Robin informed «There seems to be a seal in your mind that we couldn’t recognise. You went in physical distress when we tried to bypass it, so we didn’t deem it safe to proceed further. Marco took care of you afterwards.»
Your heart started pounding.
«A seal? What does it mean? A curse?»
«No. It sounds more scary than what it is. The other professors and I have seen our share of curses and dark magic, and whatever stopped us tonight looked nothing like it.»
«But you just said you have no idea what that is.»
«True, but now that we’ve found it, we can find out. Professor Darcule and I will personally research it.»
«How did this seal end up there?»
The witch shook her head.
«We don’t know. You had a lot of unusual encounters in your young life. It’s possible that, at some point, you came in contact with a peculiar kind of magic. I’m confident we’ll know more soon.»
Your eyes fell on the tea.
«So… you’re sure I shouldn’t be worried?»
Nico Robin observed you. Her words were kind when she spoke again.
«There was nothing wrong with anything else. Whatever this is, it’s not affecting your body, nor your magic. Don’t lose your sleep on it, Y/n, and let us take care of everything.»
After a moment of hesitation, you took a deep breath.
«Okay.»
You drank half of the tea before properly sitting on the couch.
«May I go back to my dorm now? I feel the urgent need to take a shower.»
Nico Robin smiled.
«Of course.»
«Great. Thank you Prof. Fushichō for fixing me. My debt with the old hag is getting a bit out of control.»
Marco chuckled again.
«No problem-yoi.»
You stood up, fought off the sudden dizziness that came with the action, and walked toward the door.
«Oh, I almost forgot, there was also some protective charm on you.»
Nico Robin’s words had you spin on your heels. She smiled at your alarmed expression.
«A rough application, but quite powerful. Whoever cast it must truly care about you.»
You felt your cheeks heating up.
«Huh, yeah, noted.» you murmured before hotfooting out of the office.
As you walked out, you were met with the headmaster and both Prof. Donquixotes.
Wow, I’m a celebrity.
«Oh, Y/n!» Whitebeard rumbled «How are you doing? Did Nico Robin explain the situation?»
«Fine and yes.» you muttered, stopping under his imposing shadow.
«Good. Now you go about with your life, aye? We’ll let you know when there’s any news.»
«Sure, okay.»
«Come.» Rocinante stepped forward with a reassuring grin «I’ll walk you to your dorm.»
Your suspicious gaze trailed over Doflamingo, but the blond only urged you to go with a hint of his head. You sighed internally and followed Corazon down the stairs.
«You’re not escorting your precious student back, Donquixote?» Whitebeard asked as they both entered Marco’s chambers.
«Fufu, my brother can do that just fine. I’m more interested in listening to what you have to say right now.»
The headmaster grunted, stepping into the office and in front of Marco and Robin.
«Finally showing your true colours, huh? It’s not Y/n’s safety you care about, you wanna gather information on whatever is inside her.»
The smile disappeared from Doflamingo’s face as they both approached the other professors.
«On the contrary. I see no Slytherins in this room. Y/n is one of mine, she’s my responsibility. Same goes for Eustass. If you’re going to talk about them, I am the one who should be present more than anyone here.»
Whitebeard stared at him for a few seconds before letting go of a resigned breath.
«Very well then.» he turned to the centre of the room «What is it that you can infer about tonight, Nico Robin?»
The witch sat on the couch while Marco reorganised the tools he used to check your vitals before.
«Not much more than what I already said.» she shrugged «We will look into it and hopefully find out soon.»
Whitebeard looked at the host.
«You sure the girl is alright, lad?»
«I didn’t find anything out of the ordinary-yoi. If you can get permission from her uncle, we can analyse her blood. I took a sample.»
«Oh, he’ll give me permission alright.»
«I’m a little confused about what happened though.» Marco walked around the office to take a seat on the desk «You said there was a seal and a rune? And the rune was good?»
«Yes. The seal has nothing to do with the Celtic rune.» Robin explained «That was a rudimentary cast. Pagan magic can be extremely powerful, but we could have probably bypassed that one easily had we found it before. Or more precisely, it wouldn’t have activated at all if Y/n wasn’t in danger.»
«You said it’s a rune for protection, right?»
«Exactly. Our engagement with the seal was the problem. As we tried to remove it, somehow our magic fields got stuck into its weft, which caused harm to Y/n… when it was clear she wasn’t safe, the rune activated and expelled us from her.»
«Is it possible that the seal got damaged?» Whitebeard asked.
«Unlikely. If left alone, it doesn’t seem to hurt the girl, so the rune wouldn’t perceive it as hostile. Anyway, if we couldn’t remove it, I doubt Eustass’ rune could.»
«Oh, I don’t know.» Doflamingo crossed his arms with a smirk «From where I was standing, the four of you weren’t able to do much good, and it was young Eustass who actually protected Y/n.»
Whitebeard turned to Marco.
«Does it have something to do with his blood?»
The blonde crumpled his lips in thought.
«Mmh, I’m not sure. There’s not much research on his kind, especially if kept suppressed.»
«I see.» the headmaster shrugged «I’ll assign thirty points to Slytherin. If anybody raises questions, send them to me. Nico Robin, I count on you and Professor Dracule. Find out what’s with Y/n as soon as possible.»
The witch nodded.
«We will.»
«Donquixote.»
Whitebeard’s eyes locked with the Slytherin professor.
«You have a lot of promising younglings under your care. I trust you’ll always do what’s best for them.»
Doflamingo grinned, his gaze hidden behind the shades.
«Obviously.»
«I’ve always thought this castle can be really scary in the middle of the night.»
You sighed at Corazon’s attempt to make conversation.
The two of you were now walking down one of the long, winding corridors of Hogwarts, illuminated only by the eternal torches on the walls. Most of the paintings were asleep, but the occasional eyes followed you in the dark.
«I guess.»
«You don’t think so? The students that venture out at night are quite brave. Troublemakers, sure, but brave.»
«…»
«If I remember correctly, you did it a number of times too, from the very beginning,» he continued with a careless smile «Remember when you first-years got all rounded up in your mission to save the Chimaera? You stole all the brooms and ran away in the middle of the night… who instigated that?»
Ace and Sabo.
«I don’t really remember.»
«Well, that was really something!»
The memory had at least the effect of making you smile.
You proceeded in silence for around one minute before Rocinante spoke again.
«Listen, Y/n… I know that it’s not my place to say this, but I hope you won’t hate Law.»
The sudden change of topic had you turn to the professor with a frown.
«What?»
«Regarding what happened at the Duelling Club.» he continued «I can imagine he’s being… rude to you lately. I tried to talk to him, but he can be very stubborn at times.»
You pressed your lips together, eyes returning in front of you.
«Well, yeah, kind of…»
…kind of an understatement.
Corazon shook his head.
«I’m sorry. He’s been through a lot, and what happened during your duel shook him. I know it was an accident, of course. I should have prepared him for this eventuality, but I didn’t think it would happen. It’s quite uncommon even among adult wizards.»
«I don’t know how, somehow one of his thoughts, or memories, played into my brain.» you looked at him again, a hint of guilt spreading in your eyes «But I didn’t see anything bad! Just… a little girl.»
Rocinante’s had a sad smile on his face.
«That was his little sister.»
His little sister…
Everybody knew the Trafalgar family was murdered in its entirety the summer before your first year at Hogwarts. Law was the only survivor of the massacre and the culprits were never found, despite the best aurors working on the case.
It was a big gossip as you started school until a seventh-year kid, Roger something, stopped it with his fists.
You remembered how Law was back then. Aggressive, barely spoke, and whoever tried to approach him shivered looking into those damned eyes. He looked like a walking curse.
«I’m sorry.» you murmured.
«It’s not your fault.» Rocinante grinned «You know, I’m grateful that something like this happened with an honest person like you. I know you won’t use it against him. Law will learn from it and come out stronger.»
You reached the small flight of stairs carved into stone that led to the Slytherin dungeon.
«Well prof., thank you for walking me.» you gave him a tentative smile «By the way, I do not hate Law. He’s just… a little intense sometimes. But I hope he won’t hate me either.»
Corazon chuckled and shook his head.
«He won’t. I know it may not look like it, but Law is actually a very kind boy. You destabilize him, that’s all.»
I do?
«Goodnight, Y/n. I’ll see you in class.»
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