#❧ | 🇸🇱🇾🇹🇭🇪🇷🇮🇳 🇫🇷🇴🇲 🇫🇪🇳 | salazar | interactions

[fallencrowns]

Salazar couldn't help the soft snort that left him at the mention of not being 'HAPPY' that his father was long gone. When he himself had received word long ago of his passing, there had been no mourning. Merely a letter burned in the fireplace of his study within Hogwarts without a word to anyone else, even the other founders. Though they later discovered it, there had been no need to concern them about the passing of a VILE man. Even at his darkest, Salazar could never imagine hurting his own flesh and blood. Well, the Gaunts were another matter entirely. They were so far removed that, despite their desperate attempts to 'PRESERVE' the blood that Salazar no longer considered them his own nor would he claim them as such.

❝  Believe you me that there is no need for SORROW for that man. There was certainly no love lost between us. Many people think myself cold or even dangerous, but had they met that man, well—— ❞  Salazar shrugged, allowing his words to trail off. He spoke so casually, so nonchalantly about the matter though he had yet to elaborate much on it. Inferences could no doubt be made. The unsupportive father and a son that held either resentment or had become so CALLOUSED to the mention of the man it had no effect at all. He probably didn't need to delve too deep into it; while Albus could enter the mind of others Salazar knew he was also well versed in reading between the lines without the INTRUDING piece of magic.

Allow him to make his own judgements, to guess the past. If asked, Salazar might open up some. And yet, he still enjoyed the air of mystery he had surrounding himself. It was like ARMOR, protecting him when he would undoubtedly need to vanish from this current life. Better to have lesser connections and leave less of a trace so he could rebuild again elsewhere. To just feign a sudden excuse to have to leave or, sometimes, just disappearing without a WORD. The time always came and there were few in the world he actually regretted having to leave behind. But such was the gift of immortality; no one could stay with him FOREVER.

And yet perhaps teaching at a school full of students that would one day roam the world and know his face may not have been the GREATEST of ideas. Nor getting involved with one of the most powerful wizards of the age. Those that might surely recognize him later on in life as his appearance would never change, never age nor have a fresh scar mark it. Magic and charms could only hide one for so long and masking his appearance each day would simply be EXHAUSTING. And yet Salazar found himself enjoying it greatly, a temptation he couldn't resist though he wasn't sure which one he enjoyed more.

The school that had TEMPTED him for so long, like a calling back home when he had none to return to save for his manor. Or perhaps Albus, an equal and one he found himself caring for greatly.

And speaking of, the reaction from the great wizard had Salazar chuckling. How flustered he became each time would never cease to be amusing to him. Though he wasn't certain if others had ever truly taken notice, surely some eyes had considering Albus was an attractive man. ❝  Oh, I wouldn't DREAM of it, dear Albus, ❞  he teased at the mention of going up a size. ❝  Besides, I doubt there's much you can do to avoid being a DISTRACTION at work these days. You should be so glad that I know how to keep such things hidden. ❞  All for the sake of Albus, of course. If the truth were to come out about such ATTRACTION between them, the Founder certainly wouldn't have any qualms about it. A balance of mystery and openness so that others wouldn't care about what was below the surface.

As Albus looked through the worn and weathered pages of one of her journals, Salazar found himself wandering about the library to look over his massive collection. Truth be told, he rarely wandered in here these days. Most of it was writings and magic he had already learned merely locked away for safekeeping. The rest were journals of histories he already knew or ones he himself had EXPERIENCED. The journals of the Founders, for example, mostly went unread. Why bother himself with a history that had left him so BITTER? The good memories might persevere but they had been TAINTED by the negativity of his perceived betrayal.

One some shelves, accompanying the books, were little trinkets. Items of his collection beyond just books. He paused at one shelf on the distant side of the library, taking a drink from his glass. Along the books was another one of his display items that seems so simple in comparison to some that were secured in small, enchanted glass cases.

A wand. His ORIGINAL wand that he had crafted and one that rarely saw use as he often used another to blend in better.

Of course it didn't serve him as well and he had gone through many other wands in his lifetime as they eventually cracked and BROKE under his strength. But it was better than others wondering why he might use such an ancient wand or, for some like Ollivander, realizing the magical properties were unique to that of Salazar if it were ever inspected too closely. Better safe than sorry and better to only use it as a last resort if he needed precise magic to his full extent. Otherwise, he could rely on borrowed wands or even wandless magic that was so raw.

Moving casually to keep his actions unnoticed, he carefully shifted the wand to partially obscure it behind some of the books on the shelf.

❝  Of course they had such moments. It wasn't all war and bloodshed. They were close. Like FAMILY, ❞  he spoke up, turning away from the shelf once more to face Albus with that casual smirk he often wore. ❝  Though you continue to SURPRISE me by blaming the world and the times rather than blaming Slytherin himself. But, reading their journals, mostly those from before the war between the Founders, does have some rather humourous entries. Snowball fights with the students, drunken nights before the school around a fire, Godric convincing Salazar to get involved in his antics, even recipes from Helga. There was a time of PEACE. ❞  Only a little over a decade but enough for them to bond beyond the wars of Muggles and the magical community. In order to work so well for even that long, there had to be the small moments in between all the work and trying to survive.

Salazar crossed the room again, one hand behind his back while the other still held his glass of whiskey, to move back to Albus and his readings. ❝  I think, what most people forget, is they all started very YOUNG. And the young even back then were foolish and needed relief from the stress of the times. I know I was certainly the RECKLESS youth in my teenage years and into my twenties. They weren't in their fifties beginning the school. ❞ 

Albus couldn't speak for his companion's father, but given the context clues he would have to agree with Ophiucus. His father certainly sounded like the type who would support Gellert's cause. And maybe at one time, he wondered if Ophiucus could or would do the same, but so far his need to jump to conclusions so quickly had been proven wrong. The fact that Ophiucus was allowing him entry into his home and even offering to train him for a fight against the man who, heretics aside, probably had more common beliefs with him than his own boyfriend was saying a lot. What would he have to gain from aiding him? The fall of a wizard who could make Muggles pay for all the hurt they've caused him? It was absurd to think about really, but… Gellert was going about it the wrong way. Inciting a war was never the answer.

〝 I am not happy to know your father is long from this world, but… it does give me some relief that yet another isn't able to join Gellert's cause. 〞

And though Ophiucus told him not to feel sorry, Albus still couldn't help but feel it somewhat anyway. Albus' father and his behavior wasn't anything like what Ophiucus had to endure, but Albus knew all too well what it was like to have need of validation from one's father. Albus didn't get much of it once his own ended up in Azkaban, but it was a story best left for some other time. To speak on his own father would open up far too many painful memories associated with his family and the mess that got him here. It was far too soon for that conversation.

Albus allowed his thoughts to venture elsewhere though if his partner was studying him closely, he would note the change in Albus' features. Those blue eyes did not sparkle nearly as much when speaking of family. On the contrary, Albus looked quite sad --- distressed even --- though his mind remained guarded. For now anyway. Letting his guard down completely was just too hard after everything concerning Gellert. He was far too used to concealing himself away. Getting out of that was going to take some work.

He manages to reel himself back to the moment at hand, helped along by choice words from the other male. The comment, spoken so calmly and eloquently, that Albus found himself opening his mouth, red faced and at a loss for words. He quickly turned to him, poised to say something back but could hardly do so for the heat spreading through him.

〝 You are the worst,〞 he manages. 〝 The absolute worst.〞 Or the best depending on one's perspective. And now every time he suited up, he was going to wonder if his slacks were too tight or if he should go up in size. Was that why he got questionable looks from Travers? Did they think his state of dress most unprofessional? And Minerva? Did she…?

No. He was not going to let Ophiucus fluster him too badly this early on into their trip. He refused… or so he would tell himself.

〝 It is however, kind of you to notice. Your observation means I need to go up in size. I cannot have everyone thinking improper thoughts, most importantly you. Far be it for me to become a distraction at work.〞

As if they weren't already quite the distractions towards each other although until now, it was mostly avoided ( at least on Albus' end ). Now he had to wonder how different things would be once they returned to Hogwarts. The lingering glances on his part were difficult enough to shelve but after this trip, would he be able to properly stop his own eyes? Would he be able to turn off the attraction in favor of remaining nothing more than coworkers? He wondered…and fretted a bit, but he knew it was a bridge best crossed later.

With book in hand, he let himself be consumed by the idea of the knowledge and insight that lay just within the words upon the page. Helga wasn't talked about much at all, but he was well aware that the food served at Hogwarts was inspired by her old dishes. Did she spend the lot of her free time crafting recipes, or did she participate in friendly duels? The other mystery was whether or not she had any children of her own. He knew Rowena did, but what of the other founders? There was much to discover and the more he thought about it, the more excited he became.

Albus looked up just as Ophiucus produced another book for him. This one was equally weathered, but he took hold of it carefully hanging onto his companion's every word. He always had a feeling Helga was much more than she was painted out to be over the years. A person who valued loyalty and trust… There was so much to unpack there. Was such traits important because she knew what it was like to be betrayed, or was she herself loyal and just and desired her students to be a reflection of herself? He'd like to know for himself just to sate his curiosity even if the rest of the world would never know.

〝 I agree. And I think people tend to overlook the time period in favor of simply making their own terrible assumptions. The Hufflepuff house isn't looked down upon much, but there is something of an heir of superiority that overcomes those in our perspective houses. It leaves Ravenclaw and Hufflpuff overlooked often which is a shame. Some of the brightest wizards have come from both.〞

He finds his mind drifting back to that of his sister, comparing her kindness to that of the founder Helga. It made him sad to think that maybe she could have been just as great as Helga some day. She certainly had a strong affinity for magic at such a young age. But just as quickly as he found his mind wandering to sad times, Ophiucus unknowingly brought him out of it. The idea of Godric and Salazar sharing drinks was rather amusing. Given history's penchant for portraying them as bitter enemies, it seemed surreal that the two could have had such fun together. On the other hand…

'The greatest friends often make the bitterest enemies…'

Perhaps…

〝 It sounds like, despite the troubling times, they founders still found time to be regular people. It must have been nice for a while. A shame that the world found a way to ruin things. I only hope that there was much fun and love shared before things turned dark.〞

[fallencrowns]

@fantastic-wizards​

Clearly there was excitement in the air at the lesson, the students that had signed up either eagerly chatting with one another or already entirely focused before he had had a chance to even speak. A row of wands were laid neatly on his desk, a requirement he gave them to avoid any potential CHEATING with a wand under the table. While they may not get any credit from the lesson, there were always those that were eager to gain respect from other students if they did show the ability early on. Even if it meant hiding a wand under the table. What he wanted were those that sought the actual ability and knowledge, not those seeking more POPULARITY from their appeared prowess in the art of wandless magic. Though he doubted anything would even come of there first lesson, there were already students that excelled in his class with an almost NATURAL talent.

❝  Alright, let’s settle in now,  ❞  he began, finishing up shifting papers on his desk to reorganise. The chatter began to finally cease, the students turning their eyes on him.  ❝  I want to remind you that no house points will be awarded nor any extra credits. This lesson is strictly for an OPPORTUNITY to learn the ability. I understand nonverbal magic is taught here as it helps to keep us unseen by the Muggle world but wandless is another beast altogether. I want you to know you are not likely to leave class today having managed anything but do not let that discourage you. It takes practice. In this classroom, you are allowed to use magic verbally if you feel it may help.  ❞  As he spoke, he moved to step in front of the desk, eyes moving to each student in the room as they both eagerly and nervously awaited their chance to try the magic at hand. More students than he had anticipated had shown up but he was glad he had enlisted Albus’ assistance.

He stepped closer to the students, only a few feet away from the first row. Salazar had taken on many students in his time outside of Hogwarts. Other adults usually like a private tutor to help them grow. It was a lesson he had tried to teach time and time again though each time was different as he tried to find the EASIEST way to begin such an art. It was a skill difficult to teach when it had been NATURAL for him and in his own day. Many went without wands and he had had to learn how to hone his magic through such an instrument as an adult and now he had to teach it the other way round. He had never been taught such magic, had merely given in to that INSTINCT as many in his time did and learned how to bend it to his own will when needed. How did one even teach an instinct?

❝  There has been wandmakers for well over a thousand years. Ollivanders was founded long before this school even. But that doesn’t mean they were commonplace. Wands could be dangerous, a signal to Muggles that we were not one of them. So many went without them. Some of the Founders themselves did not even gain wands until they were adults. Even in other countries nowadays, you’ll see they prefer wandless over wands while here, it’s become something of a lost art.  ❞  A crutch, something to rely upon as their kind had not had any sort of schooling back then. 

What he had hoped back then would be a temporary solution to many lacking the ability to CONTROL their magic had become a necessity in the modern world. Many even with the ability to perform wandless magic kept their wand on them at all times for a safety precaution while he kept his merely to BLEND IN in such a world. The students had already raised a brow at his brief shows of wandless magic, enough to even form the class he now taught.

Withdrawing his hand from his pocket, he gave it a small wave and in the same motion, textbooks appeared in front of each student. Wandless and nonverbal, a good demonstration to show what they might be capable of once they honed their skills. A few of the students whispered to each other at the small show but were quick to hush as he took yet another step forward to gain their attention once more.

❝  Before every one of you were admitted into this school, you no doubt displayed acts of wandless magic. REACTIONARY, seemingly impossible to control and acting on its own free will. That is the ability you have to harness and manipulate.  ❞  Now he took the chance to walk across the row of the tables, hands moving back into their respective pockets, pacing back and forth to catch the eye of each student.  ❝  Everyone has the ABILITY. You would get frustrated and something would fly off the shelf. Happy and suddenly the candles are shining far too bright. Some of you come from wizarding families and knew right away what it was. You were excited to display it because it meant you would one day walk the very halls of this school. And then those of you that are Muggleborn——   ❞  Salazar came to a stop, eyes drawing to one of his students that had suddenly dropped her head at the mention of her blood status. No doubt expecting some cold remark as she had probably heard before.

The children weren’t the problem. They had never been the problem. His wariness came from their parents. It wasn’t their fault for being born as they were. His voice dropped slightly, almost APOLOGETICALLY before he continued,  ❝  —— I’m sure it was quite TERRIFYING. To learn it and not be afraid.  ❞  He paused a moment, waiting until the female student lifted her head with a small smile that he returned. A brief moment to acknowledge the differences before he was moving on and the smile wiping away altogether once again. 

Not once had he even looked to Albus just yet, lingering towards the back of the classroom. Despite prior interactions, his focus had to be entirely on the young minds willing to learn rather than their little banters and he was sure the other professor felt the same. But, finally, he gave an acknowledgement of his presence, giving a nod towards Albus to indicate to the other students he was there.  ❝  You’re all familiar with Professor Dumbledore, of course. He’s another practitioner of wandless magic and will be assisting me today. Well, more ensuring that you don’t cause an EXPLOSION in my classroom. I think we had enough of that in our first week, didn’t we?  ❞  Some mild laughter from the students, an unfortunate incident when first picking up the practice that had formerly just been a study of. The founder gave his own small chuckle at the reminder before clearing his throat to press on.

❝  Now, Wingardium Leviosa. It’s a first year charm,  ❞  cue the groans from students disappointed it would be something so simple and Salazar couldn’t help the smirk,  ❝  Better to start off with something simple because I can guarantee this will be difficult enough on its own. As I said, you’re permitted to use the spell verbally. What I want from each of you is to try and find that magic from when you were a child. At times, it could even feel as a constant COMPANION back in those days. Sometimes making the motion with your hand rather than a wand will help. Search inside yourself, grasp the magic. Push it towards your goal to lift the book. And if for even a moment, you start to get frustrated, I would advise stopping. Just for a moment. If you remember to your childhood, anger and frustration often led to lashing out and I’d rather not have a book flung at me.  ❞  Maybe a feather would have been simple and less chaotic but he didn’t want a student getting excited for a moment that it had moved when they had simply breathed too hard. 

❝  Remember, this is not a mandatory class. If you get too frustrated and wish to give up, you are more than free to leave. But I would encourage you to keep trying and returning each lesson. This will take TIME. Also do try to not practice this outside of class where we can’t keep an eye on your. This can be very TEMPERMENTAL magic. Now, let’s begin. Search for that magic, harness it, but don’t push too hard. If you need assistance then you’re free to call me over but there’s little I can do to reach inside.  ❞  

[fallencrowns]

@fantastic-wizards​

Perhaps he had become COLD after their argument. Giving only bare interactions and even then it was kept brief. For once, Salazar had found himself spending more time with the other professors rather than the ally he had thought found. Often giving an excuse to leave the room when Albus entered and turning more to focus on his other connections and his students. There were far greater things to pursue within the walls of Hogwarts than just chase down a man that had a clear desire to not be caught. If anything, it allowed him more time to focus on his other reasons to return, hoping the avoidance would be enough to allow him to venture the castle late at night in search of—— SOMETHING. And while he wasn’t outright rude, there was a clear annoyance that had grown where perhaps some had made WHISPERS on their perceived closeness before.

In truth, perhaps the last conversation had stung a little. Dredging up old memories of other arguments within the castle walls though thankfully this one had not ended up with a CURSE being hurled as he had done before in his youth.

But he couldn’t avoid the other professor forever and, with time, his actions became far less obvious as he felt the irritation fade away. though he still made no attempt to reach out to Albus again. If he wanted to keep his distance then Salazar would give him just that and keep all his little secrets to himself. Even with his curiosity, there was the PRIDE that lingered, the pride many Slytherins had even if they weren’t worthy of it in his eyes. Salazar was quite adept at giving the cold shoulder while keeping all the manners and niceties about him as he had been raised to do as a child. 

Oh, but then came his students. So many bright eyes children that had actually chose to continue taking his class and many of them were EXCELLING under his teachings as he had hoped. Part of him had assumed with not only studying the subject but also choosing to teach them magic, this modern generation would simply be too WEAK in order to perform any. And while often times they fizzled out without much to show, even that feat was quite an incredible step whether they knew it or not. Many wished to have the subject for future careers so they put their heart into it. But when discussing wandless magic and even giving a small demonstration of it, merely putting out candles without his wand, some had apparently shown INTEREST in being able to do so. Probably far too advanced for their age group but who was he to tell them no? If they were interested in learning more, of course he would agree to a class after their normal hours for those interested and of age to avoid magic BACKFIRING on someone far too young to be adept at their magic.

And that was what had led him back to Albus’ classroom. 

He couldn’t keep an eye on all the students that had signed up, especially not with abnormally advanced magic no matter how SIMPLE he might make it for them. There was always a risk and he’d rather have two pairs of eyes making sure they weren’t harmed or didn’t cast the wrong spell and harm others or even the classroom. Not many were exactly skilled in the area, it took a great deal of TALENT to not rely on a wand so there was only one other professor Salazar was sure he could rely on. 

The founder had waited until his last class was over, waiting as the students left the room, excitedly chattering about what they had learned for the day. And even then, he still waited a moment to try and SWALLOW his own pride for the conversation. At least it wasn’t one that would reveal any more of each other besides a clearly strictly professional side. He was there to discuss teaching and nothing more, just as the other would want as well. Keep his distance and all would be well.

A step forward, pausing in the doorway with silence before giving a small knock on the open door to make himself known. There was a smile, polite and charming in all ways and yet hollow towards the other for now. He wasn’t there on any sort of FRIENDLY term, merely for business.  ❝  Apologies for the intrusion, Professor Dumbledore. Needed to discuss some things with you.  ❞  Maybe he was being intentionally VAGUE to keep Albus on his toes, his own form of light teasing, before stepping into the room. Hands founds his pockets though he didn’t approach much farther and allowed the large gap. He didn’t want to be here, wanted to ask any other professor for help but they likely weren’t even able to on such a subject matter.

❝  You’re capable of WANDLESS magic, correct?  ❞  he asked, though he gave no time for a response before continuing,  ❝  Not sure why I bother asking when I know, but it seemed like the polite thing to do.  ❞  He’d seen a glimpse of it, tiny as it was during their argument but someone regarded as one of the ‘greatest wizards’ no doubt had the ability. Things were often simply EASIER with a wand which was why so many relied on it still. At times, he would too if he needed a little bit more precession than he was normally capable of with often far GRANDER displays of magic. That or to blend in as a far more average wizard when he needed to, why he often still used it at Hogwarts though he was careful to keep its make ups to himself lest anyone realise he carried the wand of Slytherin.

All he took was another step, eyes focused on the professor intently.  ❝  ——Several of my students have expressed interest in the subject after we discussed it in class. Even when I told them it was quite advanced, I couldn’t dissuade them. So I thought to mitigate risks, it might be best to ask the only other person here that I know can perform it to help keep an eye on them. Not many would know the WARNING signs about it starting to backfire or when a student is doing it improperly. I’d rather not risk an explosion.  ❞  Quite possibly the only reason they even could speak to each other at this point was because of the students. And it wasn’t like he had expected them to want to try it.  ❝  I’m going to hold a few classes for the seventh years. After normal classes and they won’t get any sort of grade on it. But it’s quite the useful skill to have. Who am I to deny them of that?   ❞  

[fallencrowns]

@familyname​ asked:                               you are horribly old - fashioned ,  aren’t you ?

His lips curled upwards in that knowing smirk of his. The other really had no idea just how RIGHT he was. Though he kept up with appearances, learned with the times, he still clung tightly to the past. Gripping with fists as it slipped away time and time again.  ❝  Oh, most AGGRESIOUSLY so. Really not much hope for me at this point but I do study and teach ancient magic. It’s my job to live in the past.  ❞  Though he could keep up with the fashion trends, switching to suits and cutting his hair and adapting somewhat to the language, the mannerisms were still intact. Decades spent using them in his mortality.  And they’d been BEAT into him in his youth. That and how he preferred the old style of decour.  ❝  Though I’m sure some might say the same about YOU. These days those that value blood purity are seen as ‘old fashioned’ themselves.  ❞  

[fallencrowns]

@fantastic-wizards​ 

❝  I’m well aware I missed the feast, Godric.  ❞  He suspected that was the reason the man had come to his study, it was highly unlikely it was to continue their—— PREVIOUS conversation regarding the school and its students. Salazar was leaning over the desk, parchment strewn about but nothing he was paying attention to. Instead, his focus was the thing wood laying on top of the mess that he was fiddling with. Cracks had formed into the surface starting from the tip, the fissures a telltale sign of REJECTION of their owner. Maybe the other had thought his absence was due to frustration over their debates between the Four but in truth? He had been trying to repair the damned wand on his own. 

Finally, he leaned back and gave an aggravated sigh. He was the one constantly needing a new wand, Ollivander no doubt running out of ideas at this point.  ❝  Third one this month! The wand fellow, he says we just haven’t made the right MATCH, like a piece of wood is supposed to have any sort of—— EMOTIONS! Half the time I think he’s just speaking nonsense.  ❞  There had been the suggestion he craft his own wand as the ones given to him constantly failed, usually breaking not too long after but now it was becoming more and more common with this one in the middle of class. His nose slightly wrinkled, lips pulled downwards and brows furrowed. It just meant another trip to the man and a WASTE of his time. 

The children took nicely to the wands, that much was true. Some were using them before the school but they weren’t so commonplace due to the fear of being found with one. It often led to far more explosive magic but Salazar seemed to have the OPPOSITE problem. Often expending too much power with a ‘mismatched’ wand. It was driving him up the walls!  ❝  Honestly, do we NEED to teach them with this? I get it’s easier but mark my words, come fifty years from now, they won’t know any other way. I don’t want a generation of witches and wizards relying on a bloody stick. A magical one but a stick all the same.  ❞  

[fallencrowns]

@fantastic-wizards​  |  salazar slytherin

It was late, he knew that. Most everyone else had probably retired for the evening though Salazar was far from most. He had barely noticed the candles he had lit barely holding any more light as they had burned for so long. Even the fireplace had been extinguished sometime ago. Holed up in the staffroom, enjoying the peace and quiet it now that it had been EMPTIED from the others. The man had become engrossed in the book he had recently acquired. Weathered leather and yellow stained parchment barely held together only showed just how OLD it was. Inside were the scrawled and hurried writings of a witch. Some spells, some observations, some just mere thoughts on things they had witnessed. Something he had hunted down for many years, careful with every page turn that he did not RUIN it as it appeared ready to turn to dust at any time. 

An ancient studies professor, of course he’d be studying something so clearly ANCIENT. It would be easy enough to pass off alongside his other collections he had brought to assist in teaching. Though, admittedly, he hadn’t spent much time socializing with the other professors since he had taken the job. Only just a couple weeks in but there was still ADJUSTING to be done. The walls that he had helped craft had indeed changed over the centuries and he had been taking his time between classes to learn it. Though, all the same, she had seemed to welcome him back as he had experienced no difficulties as of yet.

It wasn’t until he heard the sound of a door followed by footsteps that Salazar’s eyes lifted from the tattered parchment to the new addition in the room, a brief look of annoyance before it settled. Ah, right. Albus, one of the other professors. Of course he’d heard of him long before his arrival at the school though he had yet to formally speak to the man save for in passing. As his hand moved to carefully close the book, he allowed a polite if not sheepish smile to cross his features.  ❝  I certainly wasn’t expecting anyone else to be up at this hour. I thought it the perfect time to get in some light reading. I can get rather—— ENGROSSED when I find something of particular interest.  ❞  A habit of his, even back in his days of a founder though he was sure his private study in one of the towers was long gone. 

[fallencrowns]

@fantastic-wizards​ asked:  ❛ everything looks so beautiful from up here. ❜ 

He was glad he had managed to convince Albus to come away with him. While he didn’t expect the man to stay the full summer, not with all the CHAOS within their world, it was a slight glimpse of peace in the madness. No one to disturb them, no Ministry to come knocking, no children rushing through the halls, and Grindelwald would not likely be able to find the not-so-humble abode with the many charms and wards placed in the area. Few ever ventured to the manor and fewer still were even aware it existed. There was nothing but the quiet sounds of nature and themselves. While the DREAD of the future still probably lingered within the other professor, there was a reason this was the place Salazar often ventured to when he needed solitud rather than the more normal housing far closer to their community that he had as his ‘official’ residence. Here, everything seemed so far away. 

The lands had changed enormously over time. What was once a fen surrounding the manor had dried up, leaving behind dry ground for endless miles of grass to sprout up from. Trees growing in abundance still though not the kind from when he was a child as the environment had forced a shift even there. Wildflowers and wildlife were still plentiful in the area, untouched by both Muggles and their kind alike. Unnoticed by most anyone unless he lifted the charms, usually spared just a glance.

Just as he intended. His childhood home, Salazar would prefer it to be left undisturbed. While it was a FAR cry from what he recalled, many halls and connected building long since gone and the stone wall surrounding it having crumbled and disappeared long ago, the root of it remained. Many of the objects within the house were remnants of its original times, kept preserved by the wizard and repaired as needed, though it had kept the same rather dark mood to it that he recalled. Little colour save for notes of emerald or a shine of silver, dark oak and ebony were far more prevalent in the overall colour scheme. They had been the same when he was younger, a reason the Slytherin house boasted the same colours: leftovers of his family and all that really remained of the ones before him. 

Of course, many of the objects had been stashed away in various rooms and sealed SHUT with magic to prevent any of his secrets from escaping. Bringing Albus here had been a risk, he knew that. Those that had come before had been fully aware of his identity. Many of his more PERSONAL artifacts were kept there from eras long since passed. 

This? This was something new altogether. Perhaps the interior looked a little less lived in if at all with such belongings hidden away. Things like family portraits were locked away long ago for the sake of his own sanity but given his clear connection to a family once, however many years ago, might have seemed a little off with how perceptive Albus was, but for the best. Even if it did make the darkness that much more apparent, such things could be brushed aside. Say this was merely a place to get away and claim one of his other residences held most personal items.

Even with the potential DREARINESS the inside of the manor held, Albus seemed to practically glow and give a spark of life to the walls he knew so well. A brief little thing as all things in this world were and yet he found it refreshing. The depths within that man, it was one Salazar could find himself DROWNING in if he weren’t careful. But perhaps it would be enjoyable if he did. Clearly there was darkness in his past, Salazar wouldn’t be blind to that, but the man he was now? Oh, it was a beauty. While he had sought him out at first to ensure he was no THREAT, what he found was that much better. Few could challenge him, could make him pause or even give CHASE and Albus had done just that. It went far beyond just wishing to unravel whatever secrets there may be. It was to UNDERSTAND him. To see how he saw so much goodness in the world whereas he himself had given up on it.

He’d taken Albus to the fourth floor of the manor, to the perfect position to see the sun set on the green hills and the faint silhouettes of mountains in the very far distances. Bathing the lands in the golden hue that often distracted even Salazar when he resided there. Besides SPITE, it was one of the reasons he had reclaimed a home that once brought him agony. The sites were beautiful, a stark contrast to some of the most treacherous places he had found himself in in his thousand years of living. A reminder that, even as a child in pain, he too had once been filled with so much HOPE for the world and their kind.  

It was enough of a sight to relax even his tired self. Gone was the normal three piece suit made of fine threads and instead simple slacks and a casual white dress shirt that had been haphazardly tucked in. There wasn’t the need to portray the strict teacher nor the terrifying dark wizard. It was peace and solitude.

Even if that solitude did include another. 

❝  Everything looks so beautiful from up here.  ❞  

The words spoked caused Salazar to look up from the whiskey he held in his hand, almost caught off guard by the cut in the sudden silence. He felt even the view from Hogwarts with her much higher towers and view of the land couldn’t compare to this one. With how rarely it was seen by ‘OUTSIDERS’ and left untouched, it was one he favoured. There were already faint glimmers in the sky from the stars as they remained untouched by modern lights from the cities or the castle. No towers to impede the view, no students rushing about. 

Salazar found his lips pulling upwards into the even rarer soft smile few could pull from him. He gave a small hum of agreement, before speaking himself.  ❝  It’s truly breathtaking.  ❞  Only his eyes weren’t on the floor length window before them but instead on the man at his side. The golden glow casting the perfect shadows across those gorgeous features, bathing him in the same light the hills just outside shone in. Once, he had likened Albus’ eyes to the ocean with how blue they were. Now he thought more of twilight. A blue caught between darkness and light, never wholly either of them. And yet there was still that subtle twinkle like the stars no matter the pain they held. As often as he had seen the sunset from that window, as often as it had been the one to CALM him in his anger as this was the place he often retreated to once emotions got the best of him—— he would find the visage of Albus far more enjoyable. 

He didn’t expect that. He shouldn’t want this. There were a million reasons out there why this was most certainly not a good idea and he had seemingly forgotten every one of them right there in that moment. Watching him take in something else so beautiful, to share part of his own world with him or at least the nicer parts of himself. There was even a lingering there right on the tip of his tongue: he needed to tell him. Not right now but at some point, the truth would have to come out. Both of them, despite still standing in shallow waters of their new venture had waded in too deep to simply ABANDON it and not harming the others. Despite all the stories told of himself, it wasn’t often he would hurt another for no reason, even if the reason he found was a skewed one like the bloodshed after departing from the founders. 

He was still staring and yet he couldn’t pull his gaze away. Eyes normally a bright jade seemed more emerald in the lighting as he watched before finally moving. The hand that had been shoved inside of his pocket moved to gently brush his knuckles against the other’s cheek and draw his attention.  ❝  Quite possibly one of the most beautiful sights I’ve seen in a very long time.  ❞  A soft voice, now looking into the eyes of the other. Well, he had never shied away from making his attraction known.

Oh, how glad he was to bring him with him to Ireland. Far away from all the noise. Where they could both spar uninhibited and to know the depths of their relationship. 

[fallencrowns]

AURELIUS  |  thatsecondsalemboy

The obscurus flung itself upwards into the air, before slamming once more into the ground, clods of dirt flying everywhere. The sound of the impact itself was near deafening, the mass burrowing a few feet into the ground and churning back and forth with a screech. All the rage, all the pain that still lurked beneath the surface of its boy being unleashed all at once, slamming back and forth between rubble and tree and ground, plaintive sounds echoing from it that seemed something akin to distress, save for the inhuman being it was coming from. Almost pitiful in a way, save for it’s destruction.

After approximately fifteen minutes of thrashing back and forth, it finally began to still, coalescing along the side of a tree, roiling almost gently around the bark. Though the mass had no eyes, it almost seemed as if it turned to look at Salazar, flickers of red and white more muted now but still slicing through the black mass.

At the man’s words, the obscurus let out a keening howl, seeming to restrict a little in size. It did not want its boy to hurt, did not want its boy to die, but all it knew was how to survive in the moment. Its boy had been so scared, so angry, and it had protected him for years, doing its best to end those who threatened him harm.

It did not want to hurt him.

❝  He doesn’t NEED you anymore.  ❞  Maybe the words were harsh, the parasite protecting the boy for so long but now Salazar had taken on that burden. Perhaps he couldn’t loom over the boy at every moment nor did he wish to, he liked to think of it as a good ALTERNATIVE. One that could not die, could face a thousand blows from a curse and still remain standing. The obscurus couldn’t teach him, couldn’t train him, couldn’t share magical knowledge from times long since passed. And unlike others, Salazar had no ILL WILL towards the boy. No plans to use him. Hopefully one day he wouldn’t even need Salazar any longer and he could go wherever he might like. Explore the world without looking over his shoulder. Especially with the obscurus gone, others might relent in their PURSUIT.

Maybe provoking something like an obscurus wasn’t the best idea but he would make his point known. A man of secrets, of LIES, but not always. Not right now save for about himself.  ❝  The boy—— is safe under my tutelage. You see through his eyes surely. Never raised a hand against him and any SECRETS I may keep are for his best interest. I’m quite the man to fear but he has done nothing to provoke me. Nothing deserving of anger.  ❞  Frustration, perhaps. Like when he had broken into one of his locked rooms but most anyone would get curious. Hardly anything to earn his wrath as many others had. Instead, there was a care there. Almost a FONDNESS though he wouldn’t admit it. 

A deep breath before he was searching his pocket to pull out a small watch and open it. Several dials and a few cloudy reflections inside though he was more focused on the time than anything else it might present. A little gift from a friend a few years ago.  ❝  If you’re quite finished with your tantrum now, the boy and I have a very important meeting to attend shortly. I’d rather not arrive after the sun falls. We want to arrive while it’s still crowded.   ❞  Better to blend in to a crowd, hardly anyone paid attention to every single face that passed by.  They’d be fare more NOTICEABLE as the last stragglers.

[fallencrowns]

@thatsecondsalemboy​

He had checked in from time to time, always from a distance, never interfering. Watching from afar only to DISAPPEAR as he was quick to apparate away from the scene. So many rumours seemed to swirl around the boy, even as he kept an eye on him. First, it was his death at the hands of COWARDLY Aurors that sought to kill anything they might not understand. Then he lived but tales of a prophecy and the Lestrange family were all anyone had to speak of when it came to the boy. Even so, he had watched over him, seen the boy practically SCRAMBLE to uncover his true identity. Matters which Salazar could not help, not since he had cut ties with many of the other Pureblood families of Europe.

But then it was that he had sided with Grindlewald. There was irony there, many of Salazar’s beliefs aligning with the other dark wizard. That their kind should not have to hide from the Muggles, that they were SUPERIOR and did not deserve to be forced into the shadows. Still, Salazar kept out of such affairs, keeping to the shadows as he had for centuries as many wars had come and gone. Politics were often a thing he kept out of save for making allies in certain places so he could merely know what was to come. But he was not afraid of Grindelwald nor would he shrink away from the one he had begun to watch over regardless of what CONSEQUENCES may come should the other find his plot interfered with.

It was late, an honest coincidence when he had spotted the figure following the boy. Into an alleyway, the Auror perhaps using a charm to muffle his own footsteps and the shadows making it easy to hide in. It would have been best to look away, to let the boy handle it on his own, but he couldn’t keep OUT of it all forever. Salazar’s own footsteps followed, waiting until they were clear of the open streets before his wand was drawn. Precision once more needed in between the narrow walkway of the alley. To align oneself with such a PUBLIC enemy, of course others would be after him. The snuff out Grindelwald’s powers, they would go after his allies and Credence was, by far, one of the most DANGEROUS forces at his side.

Salazar watched the Auror raise his wand, the spell on the tip of his tongue, but he was quicker. The wooden instrument shot towards the target and a green BURST of light briefly illuminated the alleyway before the man crumpled onto the ground. Unmoving, eyes staring ahead, no signs of breathing from his chest. DEAD. The Killing Curse was simple enough, an effective weapon to cease life. He could have done much worse, the man in whatever afterlife there might be should have been GRATEFUL it was only that.

❝  You’re going to have to be more careful if you’re going to side with Grindelwald of all people,  ❞  he spoke, his words clearly directed at Credence though Salazar didn’t so much as glance in his direction just yet. Instead, it was on the body between them, his boot reaching out to nudge the corpse as if to find any sort of REACTION. A force of habit, coming from a man that had been struck with the same curse many times and still lived and breathed.  ❝  When I said to find others of our community, that was hardly what I meant. You’ve quite a knack for finding some of the worst people, don’t you?  ❞  

[fallencrowns]

@thatsecondsalemboy​​

It seemed even in the modern day and age, there would be those that would hunt their kind. Even in a world so separate, the Muggles still sought to destroy them. When he had heard of the little American group, Salazar couldn’t help but feign interest. See what they knew or if perhaps it was all merely NONSENSE like so many before them. Talks of warts and pointy shoes, they always came up with something to ‘identify’ a witch and it was always mere superstition. Muggles would probably never know a witch or wizard if they performed MAGIC right in front of them! But when one of those children had passed him a pamphlet, consider his curiosity piqued and he soon found himself stepping across the threshold. A wizard in the presence of witch hunters, he could appreciate the IRONY.

But then something else had his attention. A woman shouting, the telltale sounds of someone being harmed, a whipping noise in the air. Sounds that Salazar himself was all too familiar with even with a thousand years gone since his youth. Back when that same sound had filled their own family manor before it was destroyed. The girl that had brought him only watched as he began to walk towards the sound. Step by step, cautious until he saw the sight.

Bitter old woman, the sight alone was enough to make his chest swell with a RAGE at the sight of the other. Belt in her hand, apparently not even aware of his presence yet. Common sense would have told him to handle this as a Muggle might, to shout and physically stop her. Salazar was not one to listen to his common sense when that ANGER could take him over. Like a giant wave crashing, readying to consume everything with its heavy tides. His dark eyes watched before the belt SHOT from her hand to clatter against the wall. In the same moment, his magic was throwing the woman against the opposing wall as well, with enough force to knock her UNCONSCIOUS. Part of the founder thought that perhaps he should have thrown her harder. He hadn’t moved an inch since finding them, his magic moving on its own at his will to PROTECT this other.

And then eyes fell to the other. A boy or perhaps a young man, it was hard to tell. Though no expression crossed Salazar’s face, no magic bristled either, ready to attack him. It had calmed, easing in the air around them. Using magic here, where these people hunted him, and yet he would find no joy in harming someone already clearly distressed.  ❝  ——Before you start screaming ‘witch’, I’m not going to hurt you. I just have an issue with people harming others in such a manner.  ❞  Though he didn’t know if this other was about to turn on him for the clear display of magic, it was best to put the fears to rest as soon as possible.   ❝  And don’t worry, she isn’t DEAD. Much as I might have liked that, I’ve spared her. What’s your name, boy?   ❞  

[fallencrowns]

@ofhalfbloodprince​​  |  sc.

He hadn’t expected to be doing patchwork in his after hours but the young Slytherin bursting into the empty classroom hadn’t really left him with much choice. Perhaps he should have led him straight to the hospital wing for treatment for the gash, it would have certainly been the EASIER of the options. But then came the thought that the boy was smart enough to go there on his own had he wanted to and still he had sought out his own Head of House instead. Probably didn’t want such a FUSS made and, if other students had been involved, it would draw up even more of a commotion. This was far more PRIVATE and less questions to be asked. Though if the Snape boy thought he would leave without a single one being asked then he was sorely mistaken. No one just got injuries like that from doing nothing. 

❝  I’ll give you fair warning: healing magic is just outside of my expertise.  ❞  He’d never had any need of it so it was an area of magic he severely LACKED in, though the wizard was sure he could at least handle this much. Running the wand down the length of the cut on the chest with a silent spell to check for infections, Salazar was glad to know there didn’t appear to be any. Good, he didn’t exactly have anything on hand to treat such things. 

At least the bleeding had apparently subsided as his wand moved back up the gash to carefully wipe away any dried blood with a silent incantation of Vulnera Sanentur, then moving back one final time with the incantation once more for the flesh to slowly begin to stitch itself back up. It wouldn’t look pretty, his handiwork often left scarring behind but at least the job was done. Helga was often the one to tend to any real injuries but she was long since gone and he doubted any suggesting to go to the Hospital Wing would be an EASY task. But at least the boy wasn’t about to die on his watch.

❝  Now, are you going to tell me what EXACTLY happened? Because if not, I’ll likely have to report this to the headmaster. Students getting so injured, it’s sure to raise a few eyebrows. I’ve heard you haven’t had the easiest time at this school but this? Not something I can turn a blind eye to.  ❞  

[fallencrowns]

ROWENA  |  witchoflegends

@fallencrowns​ sent: 💔 ( for rowena! )

52. My muse tells yours their dark secret.

“Salazar, enough! I’ll never hate muggles as you do! Partly because I married one!” She was tired of listening to him rant and rave about his continued hatred of muggles. She was tired of knowing what he was willing to do to them, and she found herself blurting out the one thing she knew he would never want to hear. A mistake, for sure, but there was no way Rowena could put the words back into her mouth. So she might as well accept her fate. When she spoke again, her words came a lot softer. “Sometime in the 15th century I went to live amongst them. See what it was like to live as they do. I fell in love, and we had children. A set of twins. Two beautiful wizard boys, Gideon and Santana.”

He knew she did not hold the same RESENTMENT towards their kind but he made no attempts to hide his anger towards them. Especially not when hearing a story of a young child attacked for their powers by the Muggles. He expected many protests out of her mouth, to say that he was being harsh, that this was history repeating itself with his actions, that he needed to calm down. What he never did expect to hear was that Rowena herself had become ENTANGLED with them. Her words were enough to stop him in his tracks, FREEZING the other founder before he slowly turned to face the woman. Eyes wide, lips slightly parted though no words found their way out. The other founders had always made their love for Muggles quite apparent but Salazar always thought that she might have more sense about her.

The expression was something between disgust and utter BETRAYAL at her words, a sting in his chest.  ❝  –—You married a MUGGLE?  ❞  his words were a mere whisper at first, the shock weighing heavy on him. It was a burn against his own beliefs and a stab to his own chest though perhaps it would have been more fitting to find a knife in his back instead. After a few moments, he took a few steps towards her.  ❝  After all they’ve done to our kind, you choose THEM?  ❞  Now his voice was beginning to raise, shaking off the disbelief and anger forming in its wake. 

[fallencrowns]

@fantastic-wizards​

New Years came and went, Salazar already back to teaching the day the students returned and back to his normal self. The mask returned, it wasn’t as if there was much time in between to spend with Albus. Perhaps a time or two he had considered going to the other’s office but, by then, it was generally far too late in the evening and so he had instead taken time each night to continue with his own studies or on his lesson plan. Perhaps they were in a BETTER place than when they had first met in the teacher’s lounge but he would hate to intrude. The man clearly had enough on his mind as did Salazar most nights.

It wasn’t as if he had planned to overhear the conversation. He hadn’t had a class and had been roaming for the period when he had caught sight of Mcgonagall ushering the children out of the classroom. Talk of the Ministry and Albus had certainly been enough to pique his interest in lingering just outside the door. It wasn’t their first trip and Salazar was beginning to dislike their interruptions more and more each time; such people should not be coming into a place of learning or that was how he viewed it. Mere irritants intruding on the teaching of children and now interrupting a whole class for their silly little war. Mortals and their RUSHING, there were far better times to come in.

The conversation had been as expected. Albus had already mentioned them coming to him over Grindelwald, that was no surprise. But just when he was about to walk away, already growing BORED of the back and forth was when he heard the other professor’s voice ring through. ‘More than brothers’. And clearly not something the Ministry paid any mind to. That was enough to catch him off guard. Was that what he was so keen on HIDING? Such a close connection to a dark wizard, it was no wonder why he was practically a bundle of nerves. 

No wonder he had immediately judged Salazar on his dislike for Muggles and why he had needed to hear his thoughts on Grindelwald. Ensure history wasn’t repeating itself. Of course he had no idea that, compared to Grindelwald, Salazar was far worse and walking the same halls and even spending time together. Most of his spells were more like CHILD’S PLAY than anything else and a reason Salazar wouldn’t push himself into the war. It would only give an unfair ADVANTAGE to whichever side he chose. But for Albus to know the other on such a personal level—— what secrets could he be hiding?

The sound of footsteps coming towards the door drew him out of his thoughts and gave him enough common sense to step away from the door and move on, acting as no more than a professor in a rush for his next class rifling through papers he had in his hands and going unnoticed. 

Salazar made no plans to approach the other during classes or even before supper. Instead, he waited for some time after the Great Hall had cleared out and he was certain that the one he sought would be in his office. Away from others, perhaps more willing to TALK rather than rush off and hide away as he so frequently did. Act as though nothing were the matter. Clearly a very hard man to pin down if even the Ministry had their issues with him.

Maybe he could pretend he never heard it, act as though everything were fine, but his curiosity always did get the better of him. At least he was having the courtesy to WAIT until others were far away, Salazar even keeping an eye out for a certain poltergeist. Albus Dumbledore, someone so many saw as perhaps a private but a good man involved with one of the darkest of this generation? The founder couldn’t help but wonder where such a backstory could begin and what all it might ENTAIL. 

The wizard moved quietly as he opened the door and stepped inside, keeping beside it before he shut it carefully behind him with a wave of his hand. Eyes found Albus, silent for a long moment and wondering if he was even AWARE of his entrance.  ❝  Is it true what they’re saying?  ❞  he asked, finally announcing himself. Gone was the hesitation and uncertainty in his voice from the last time they spoke though now it had a tinge of CONCERN in the Irish accent.  ❝  That you won’t be teaching Defense Against the Dark Arts any longer?   ❞  He was careful to give no names as to who might have mentioned it but, as Albus surely knew, rumours were quick to grow within the castle walls and it could have come from anywhere. Perhaps even a ghost that had been LURKING during the conversation.  ❝  I’m sure you’re wanting to be left well enough alone, but I was quite WORRIED for you when I heard.  ❞  

[fallencrowns]

@fantastic-wizards​

Ever since his return, Salazar had made himself scarce. More so than usual and fully intending to remain so until the break was over. Winter was never an EASY time, especially as the year came to a close and old memories resurfaced. Memories of blue eyes glazing over after a sickness and of standing in a doorway as terrible news was delivered. Salazar had known such a time would make his job as a professor DIFFICULT but there was no hiding away as he often did. Nowhere to run save for the brief time he was allowed to depart. He was sure the others were aware of his return but given his focus on teachings and his own studies, it had been easy enough to seclude himself to allow more time to collect his emotions once more.

A week spent at home, haunted by his own GHOSTS despite them having no physical form like the ghosts of the castle. An empty manor lacking the festive cheer many others celebrated. It wasn’t HEALTHY, he knew that, but it was better to hide away to mourn rather than let his emotions get the best of his. Or, rather, get the best of his magic. Dark magic out of his control due to emotions, that was the last thing Hogwarts needed.

As the festivities inside for the New Year were drawing to a close, Salazar had found himself alone in the halls with eyes on one of the portraits. With what he assumed to be most everyone inside, the man had needed a breath of fresh air after holing himself up in his bedchambers and classroom for the past couple of days. Something to clear his head and perhaps help RIGHT it from the state he found himself in. Wander the halls a bit, staying away from the busier eras as well as where certain portraits hung.

He looked hardly anything like his normally poised self. His fine jacket and vest traded for a simple dress shirt and overcoat, both severely wrinkled in contrast to the nicer and pristine clothes he often sported. Tamed hair now had stray strands and that was nothing compared to the bags under his eyes. Hands often shaking, throwing off normally wandless magic. A right MESS and Salazar knew it and yet another reason to avoid others lest questions be asked. As a man of noble birth, he was all too aware of how he should appear and this was a far cry from it. But with a clouded mind and aching in his chest? The founder could find little reason to CARE until he was forced to return to old appearances when the students arrived once more.

You could have saved them.

A hand ran over his face, blocking out the mounting frustration along with the growing headache he could feel forming in his temples. He almost missed the footsteps, the shadow of a person returning when he had thought everyone indoors. His hand lowered, green eyes catching sight of the person. For a second, the wizard didn’t recognise the other until it sunk in.

Ah, he had shaved. And here he had assumed the other professor to be with his coworkers to bring in the new year. Salazar had long since stopped CARING as each year came and went. It only brought more of the same so what was the point in celebrating? There was no END to think of, not anymore.

❝  A little bit too crowded for my liking with this whole new year. Too many questions. Never been the type to enjoy celebrations anyways. ❞  An excuse given, lips tugging upwards for an attempt at a smile as poor as it might be. And he would not question why Professor Dumbledore had also slipped away; clearly both of them had other things to tend to. Salazar’s voice lacked the normal calming tone to it, silver tongue LACKING in such a state and instead sounding hollow. No poise, no slight humour, practically empty.  ❝  I’m fairly certain most are still awake and food still around if you mean to join them.  ❞  

[fallencrowns]

@thatsecondsalemboy​  |  sc.

In the months that he had come to take Credence Aurelius under his wing, Salazar was always sure to put his best face on. All that charm, and soft smiles, though he could still be quite STRICT in his training. But the boy was learning and growing so surely he was doing something right. He could come off as nothing more than the average teacher with above average skills in magic and doing all he could to not raise SUSPICION though surely the boy already had some given how the man was practically untouchable and somehow IMMUNE to the obscurus. 

He had thought the boy had gone to bed some time ago in his chambers, the founder allowing then for his more true self to slip out. Hair a mess, clothes disheveled and the vest and jacket thrown aside, and the EXHAUSTION settling on his features was unmissable. He had allowed himself a glass of whiskey, perhaps more than just the one, when he heard shuffling in one of the rooms. Eyebrows furrowed, gaze turning towards the normally locked room. The land had plenty of spells along her border to prevent intruders so that was hardly his concern. Apparently a certain someone had been looking into charms meant to UNLOCK and was taking the late hours to look around the manor some more.

The door silently swung open with a wave of his hand, revealing the boy along with a lone painting kept in the room. A young man, probably younger than Aurelius or around the same age. Jet black hair just past his shoulders, blue eyes and features sharp. Dressed in fine robes, a wand protruding from one of his hands. Long ago, the picture had moved but now it remained still, Salazar having FROZEN the painting’s enchantment long ago. Leaning against the door frame, he silently watched Aurelius, remaining silent for some time, perhaps to gauge his reaction. The resemblance between himself and the boy in the painting were clear save for perhaps the eyes. He had had his mother’s eyes.

❝  That’s my son, Murtagh,  ❞  he finally spoke up, giving a small gesture to the painting as his eyes moved to it instead and giving away his presence. Perhaps not the relation Aurelius was expecting given how he hardly looked old enough to have a son at that age. Passing for mid thirties to early fourties, of course most would be confused. Perhaps it was good that the boy was oblivious to most magic and Salazar could act as though slowed aging were completely NORMAL if done right. He paused, glancing down to his drink,   ❝  Well—— that WAS my son. Horrible accident some time ago.  ❞  Hardly an accident, more like just MURDER by Muggles, robbing his son of his life at such a young age.

Ireland had run RED in the aftermath. 

❝  I thought you were in bed. Been experimenting with charms to unlock doors, have we?  ❞  There wasn’t anger in his face as his attention settled on Aurelius. In fact, a small smile appeared on his lips though it was a far cry from his normal one. No light reached his eyes, the appearance entirely HOLLOW and instead both fear and weariness lingering in them and perhaps a touch of pain as well from seeing the painting. He hadn’t looked upon the faces of his family in some time, keeping their likeness locked behind doors. Now he knew to reinforce any others with stronger enchantments.  ❝  I’m not Grindelwald, you realise. When I ask you to stay out of a room, there’s nothing in there to show I’m LYING to you. The walls are haunted in more ways than one. I ask you to remain out of them for my own privacy and your safety.  ❞  Perhaps he thought there would be some great reveal behind them, some proof of deceit and treachery when there were none. Merely shadows and ghosts of his own past.

[fallencrowns]

@parselmovth​  || sc.​

It was only his third year since taking over the class but probably one of the last things he expected when reading the list of students was to see the surname ‘Gaunt’. A family he was all too familiar with and one that he actively AVOIDED in the modern age. So quick to tout the title of ‘heirs of Slytherin’ but how muddled his own name had become with history. He had cut ties with the family centuries ago and, knowing what they had become in modern years, he was glad for it. But as the students poured in for their first lesson of the year, and even as eyes landed on the boy, he had to dismiss all such thoughts. He was there to teach; family concerns could come LATER though he knew he’d have to be careful. Careful with each word, especially when they did study the founders.

The first class went well enough. The same lecture he gave to all students attending his class for the first time. That unlike the professors before, they’d actually try and PRACTICE the old ways of magic as well as study it. That it would not be an EASY elective nor was he an easy professor. Each year the same, hoping to encourage those with less passion to find another class while they still could. It was better suited for those with an actual interest or perhaps even seeking careers that might involve the field. Professor Corvinus, his alias, was rather known to be strict.

Some no doubt were having second thoughts on the class when it finally came to dismiss them. Salazar stood over his desk, glancing through papers when he noted from the corner of his eye the blond boy he had already taken note of preparing to leave.  ❝  Gaunt,  ❞  he abhorred even SPEAKING the name,  ❝  I’d like a moment of your time before your next class if you wouldn’t mind.  ❞  Maybe it wasn’t the best idea to have any sort of side conversation with the boy but considering many of his descendants didn’t even ATTEND Hogwarts, the name had still caught him off guard. Salazar waited for the other students to file out of the room, some even lingering behind for a moment to see what might happen. It wasn’t until they too were gone that he spoke again though his focus was on organizing his desk still. 

❝  I must say I’m surprised to find you in this class. Mind telling me what a Gaunt is doing in Ancient Studies? I figured your family would already be well aware of the practices of olden days. Not many can trace their lineage so far back.  ❞