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cranetreegang · 7 months

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The Duel - Ominis x FemReader

Summary: Jealousy is an ugly feeling. And Ominis finds himself having to deal with it.

Warnings: Puffskein Dunkein Slander

Word Count: ~3,300 words

Hogwarts Legacy Master List

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Ominis heads down the stairs of Central Hall with an unmistakable smile on his face. It’s hard not to catch Ominis Gaunt without a warm smile playing on his lips nowadays, and people have taken notice. Most have wondered quietly as to what could be behind Ominis’ high spirits. Some whisper that it’s due to nefarious reasons - an evil ploy he’s plotting, or even a dark spell he’s mastered. Others watch him warily, unwilling to throw the Gaunt from his joy - lest they earn his brutal, cold wrath.

Ominis ignores the not-so-quiet whispers and the feeling of eyes on him as he passes, and continues towards his destination. He hears the soothing trickle of water landing into the fountain’s basin - signaling his arrival at their meeting spot - but his smile falters. A familiar, grating voice pierces his ears, causing his brows to pinch.

Duncan Hobhouse. A cowardly, spineless worm of a classmate.

Normally, this wouldn’t warrant Ominis to descend into such a foul mood. But, it’s who Duncan is currently speaking to which ignites the irateness brewing within Ominis.

Her soft giggles as Duncan speaks makes Ominis clench his wand tighter in his hand. Questions whirl in his mind at what could Hobhouse possibly be saying to warrant her laughs - her smile. Something cold twists his belly in a cruel way and he scowls at the sensation.

Ominis approaches her with a tense, but faux smile, and says, “Hello, darling.”

She falls silent mid-sentence, her eyes wide in surprise. Ominis doesn’t normally use such terms of endearments in front of others - wanting to keep their relationship more on the secretive side so as to not draw attention from his family with unbecoming rumors. She sees the subtle pinch in Ominis’ dark brows and the slight frown weighing the corners of his lips. She wonders what’s gotten Ominis so frustrated as she steps closer to him.

“There you are, Ominis. Duncan was just catching me up on the latest in Wizarding gossip,” she says.

Despite her close proximity to him, Ominis finds no easement from the coldness twisting his insides. Ominis turns his attention towards the other boy.

“Mhm, Hobhouse,” Ominis practically seethes in greeting.

“Gaunt,” Duncan replies warily then follows up with a slight cough as he looks towards her. “I-I was actually hoping to ask you something.”

“Oh? What is it?” she wonders.

Ominis bites his inner cheek, but it isn’t enough to restrain him from making his snide remark,

“Yes, what is it you require of her this time? Need her to retrieve another leaf for you? Or do you need something far more imposing to impress our peers? Perhaps a dragon’s scale would finally put all those nasty rumors to bed, Puffskein Dunkein.”

“Ominis,” she chastises under her breath.

Duncan squares his shoulders with a huff, “No, actually. I-I wanted to a-ask if you would-, if you would want to go to the library with me. And afterwards we-, we could go to Hogsmeade for a butterbeer.”

She stares at Duncan in a bit of shock. Duncan’s face is all but rosy red and he can’t even look her in the eyes as he awaits her response. Her mind fumbles with a way to gently turn Duncan down.

Meanwhile, Ominis’ lip curls in disgust. He all but nearly shatters his wand with how tightly he grips the handle. The coldness quickly transforms. It’s an ugly, hot feeling thrashing about in his chest and gnawing at his belly now.

Ominis bitterly chuckles, “Oh, how quaint.”

She nudges Ominis while giving Duncan a more sympathetic smile, “I appreciate the offer Duncan, but I’m afraid I have prior obligations today.”

Duncan nods with a frown, “Oh… okay. How about another time?”

Ominis’ heart pounds in his ears like an erratic drum. The audacity of Hobhouse, Ominis seethes to himself. Asking her on a date. Right in front of him!

Before she can reply, Ominis does first in a seething tone, “What makes you believe that you have any sort of chance to be with her, Dunkein? You’re obviously delusional to even consider the idea. Just because she’s nice to you - doesn’t mean she has any interests in the ilks of you. You’re nothing more than a passing thought. A thing to be pitied, and nothing more.”

Her mouth drops a bit at Ominis’ heated words and even more searing scowl.

“And what? She does with you, Gaunt?” Duncan hisses. “You aren’t a-a, thing to be pitied too?!”

She bites her lip as her cheeks flush, “Please, both of you, that’s enough.” She directs the last bit at Ominis.

Ominis steps forwards anyways, “And what if she does? It’s not like you’re capable of doing anything about it.”

“Ominis,” she whispers to him as she places a hand on his forearm, “What are you doing?”

Ominis turns his head towards her for a moment with a scowl plastered on his face. There’s a noticeable red flush tainting his pale cheeks and neck. She’s never seen him like this before.

Slipping her arm into Ominis’, she turns to Duncan with an apologetic smile.

“We really must be going. It was nice talking to you, Dunke-,” she coughs, “Duncan.”

Ominis doesn’t stop his smirk from showing as he begins to escort her away.

“You think you’re so much better than me, Gaunt?” Duncan shouts.

Ominis stops mid stride despite her trying to urge him to keep walking, turning his head back towards the outraged boy behind them.

“I don’t think such things. I know I am,” Ominis sneers.

Duncan’s lip curls and anger flashes in his dark eyes, “You’re not! In fact, I-I challenge you to a duel.”

Her mouth parts with an audible gasp. Ominis slips from her loose hold and turns towards Duncan.

“A duel?” Ominis cranes his head - his stormy gray eyes aflame with amusement. “And, pray tell, what are you hoping to accomplish in this ‘duel’?”

Duncan takes a heated step towards Ominis, “If I win, you leave her and I alone.”

Ominis laughs, “And when I win? Will you do the same?”

“Yes,” Duncan spits between clenched teeth.

“Very well,” Ominis stands taller with a smirk, “This afternoon. Three O'clock. Clocktower Courtyard. We’ll see if you gather enough courage to show.”

Ominis turns on his heel and walks away, leaving Duncan fuming and her flabbergasted. She gathers herself enough to chase after Ominis. They walk in silence until they arrive at the Undercroft.

“What in Merlin’s name was that about?” she exclaims as soon as they step foot into the secluded damp space.

Sebastian peeks up from his book and looks at the pair with an amused smile, “Are you two about to have a Lover’s Quarrel? Because I can leave.”

Ominis scoffs, “Please do.”

She rolls her eyes then turns back towards Ominis, “Why did you just accept a duel from Duncan Hobhouse? Of all people.”

Sebastian stops shoving his papers into his bag and raises his brow, “Wait, Ominis accepted a duel? Better yet, someone challenged Ominis to a duel?”

“Yes to all counts,” she sighs.

Ominis sneers, “Doubtful there will be an actual duel. He’ll probably lose his nerve and not even show his cowardly face.”

“What is going on with you? Has Duncan done something to deserve this horrid treatment from you?” she wonders.

Sebastian leans against the pillar while Ominis starts to pace between them.

“I have many qualms with that imbecile,” Ominis hisses. “He’s delusional. Cowardly. The nerve! To think he could ask you out for a butterbeer,” he practically spits out the last word with lethal venom.

Sebastian lets out an obnoxious laugh, “Oh, wow. I have never seen you so jealous before, Ominis. Must say, it’s not a good look on you.”

Ominis whips his head towards Sebastian, “I am most certainly not jealous. Certainly not of something as pathetic as Hobhouse.”

She crosses her arms, “Then why are you dueling him this afternoon?”

Ominis remains silent, his brows furrowing while he continues his pacing.

“So, Ominis and Hobhouse are dueling? What for?” Sebastian questions.

She blushes as she says, “For my attention, it seems. Which I’m none too pleased with. Why on earth would you think I would ever want to spend time alone with Duncan?”

Sebastian chuckles, “So, let me make sure I’m understanding this - Ominis and Puffskein Dunkein are both about to duel for your affection? Even though you and Ominis are already courting.”

Ominis’ ears turn a notable shade of pink and Sebastian laughs heartily at the sight.

“Oh, that’s rich,” Sebastian grins. “So, Hobhouse has no clue he’s in a lose-lose right now.”

“Enough, Sebastian,” Ominis snaps.

“No, I think there should be some stakes for you, Ominis. You’re the one who wanted to duel - it’s only fair,” Sebastian states.

“What’re you suggesting?” she asks.

Sebastian has a wide, devilish smirk as he says, “If Duncan beats you, Ominis, she has to go out on a date with him.”

“What?!” The couple both exclaim.

“You heard me,” Sebastian replies with a cocky smile, “You need some actual consequences to this duel, my friend. Otherwise, you won’t take it seriously.”

“And do I not get a say in this? Why am I the one that has to be punished with a date with Dunkein?” she frowns.

“Do you not believe I’ll win?” Ominis questions with pinched brows.

Her mouth parts in a bit of shock at his question then she sighs, “I’ve never seen you duel anyone before, sweetheart. Not even Sebastian.”

Ominis frowns, “So you are doubting me then.”

Her brows furrow, “That’s not what I’m saying.”

Her and Ominis seem to be locked in a staring match and Sebastian lets out a loud cough to break them from it.

“What time is this duel?” Sebastian asks.

“Three,” she looks at her pocket watch. “So, in twenty minutes.”

Sebastian claps his hands together then heads towards the exit, “Well, we better head that way.”

Her and Ominis spare longing glances at one another - his blueish-gray eyes seemingly searching for hers - before he follows after Sebastian. She watches them leave for a moment, wondering how she ended up upsetting Ominis, then she catches up to the boys.

The walk to the courtyard is silent, with Sebastian sparing glances at the silent couple behind him. Ominis appears troubled, but focused. His eyes, steely and his expression hardened. On the other hand, she looks far more turbulent. Worry, frustration, and anticipation are clearly written on her face.

Sebastian halts his stride long enough to wrap his arms around both of their shoulders, squeezing them close to his sides.

“Cheer up, you two,” Sebastian grins. “It’s not everyday Ominis decides to show us what for with his impeccable dueling abilities.”

Ominis snorts, “Seems my ‘impeccable’ abilities are in question.”

She frowns, “Ominis-,”

She’s rendered silent as they arrive at the courtyard. It’s alive with a crowd of students all eagerly chatting to one another.

“Looks like word got around, eh,” Sebastian says while he releases his hold on his two friends.

There’s hushed whispers and lively chattering between the decent sized gathering of spectators. Duncan is already in position, twirling his wand in his palm.

Ominis smirks for a moment when he senses Hobhouse’s presence, amused that the little coward actually decided to show. And with the sounds of several of their peers here, Ominis’ chest swells with eager confidence. It’s almost enough to drown out how his love doubts him. Almost.

Rolling his shoulders, he begins to slip off his school robe when he feels someone approach behind him. Her soft scent reaches his nose, followed by her gentle touch on his shoulders. A harsh temptation of shooing her away crosses his mind, but the thought is fleeting. He lets her help him out of his robe, feeling her warm fingers glide over his arms as she does. She folds his robe over her forearm then steps closer to him.

“I do believe in you, Ominis,” she whispers. “So, I won’t even bother telling you good luck. You don’t need it.”

Guilt coils in his chest for a moment, but he refuses to let it tighten around him. He spares her a warm smile instead, and slightly bows his head towards her. She squeezes his hand, conveying all that she can’t say. And he squeezes her hand back, affirming he feels the same.

Releasing her hand, Ominis strides towards his place opposite Duncan. She stands next to Sebastian on the sideline with their other eager classmates, her heart pounding in her chest as she awaits the duel to start. Ominis’ gaze is pointed to the ground, but his stance is tall and proud. He rolls up the sleeves of his white dress shirt to the middle of his forearms. A far more casual look than he normally sports, but it’s dashing all the same. She can’t deny how her breath hitches at the sight, earning herself an elbow to the ribs from Sebastian.

“You’re practically drooling,” he teases in a whisper.

“Am not,” she hisses back to him.

Ominis swishes his wand out in front of him with an arm behind his back. He looks regal, calm, confident - similar to a panther waiting to strike his prey. She grips onto his robe, pressing the garment against her chest to ease her growing nerves.

“Ready when you are, Dunkein,” Ominis says with a sneer.

Duncan’s lip curls at the nickname, “When I win, you can’t call me that again, Gaunt!”

“Whatever you say,” Ominis smirks with a low chuckle, waiting for Duncan’s first move. Duncan gathers himself then shouts,

“Levioso!”

Ominis doesn’t even bother blocking, and instead steps to the side with utter ease. His wand movement is like a whip, casting out his first spell with incredible speed, and Duncan barely blocks it. Ominis doesn’t give Duncan any time to respond though. She watches in awe at Ominis’ graceful movements as he duels. It’s like a dance. With his wand striking out with deadly and ruthless precision.

Ominis won’t deny how his blood sings and his heart races as he senses Hobhouse’s spells come towards him. The slight change in the air, the taste of electric metal, the sounds of magic as it flies towards him - it’s all rather invigorating. He also won’t deny that Duncan is a decent opponent, and he may actually pose a challenge in a few years. For now, Ominis relishes in their duel for what it is - an unmistakable message.

Having enough fun, blue sparks erupt from Ominis’ wand, blinding Duncan. Then Ominis calmly casts,

“Everte Statum.”

Duncan is flung back with such force, his body flips through the air and he crashes into the wall with a resounding thud. Duncan lays on the ground, dazed. The duel - finished. The crowd cheers and claps while Ominis has a pleased smirk on his face.

He hears her footsteps over the excited chatter and he turns towards her with his hand extended. Her hand slides into his, and he brings it up to place a soft kiss on the top. She blushes with a soft smile then whispers in his ear,

“You were magnificent, sweetheart.”

She presses a tender kiss on his cheek then steps away from him. Ominis smiles, his cheeks flushing a beautiful shade of red.

Duncan is helped to his feet by his friends and they make their way over to Ominis. Hearing their approach, Ominis turns his attention towards them.

“I must admit,” Ominis says with a neutral expression, “I’m impressed you even bothered to show up. So, well done.”

Duncan scoffs, “Save it, Gaunt.”

Duncan’s friends help him out of the courtyard while Ominis turns back to her. The guilt from earlier tightens around his chest and he clears his throat.

“I wouldn’t mind taking you to dinner, love. As a means of apology.”

She hands him back his robe with a sigh, “Well, you did win - seems only fair you get your prize.”

Ominis’ brows furrow, “That’s not why-,” he cuts himself off with a frown, his gaze low. “Please, let me make it up to you.”

She wraps her arm with his, “Very well.”

Sebastian comes up to them before they can depart.

“Took your sweet time there, Ominis,” Sebastian pats Ominis on the shoulder with a grin.

Ominis smirks, “I’d hate to leave the crowd disappointed without a spectacle.”

“You were toying with him?” she questions.

“Taking my time,” Ominis corrects.

Sebastian nods while backtracking away from them, “Whatever you want to call it, it’s safe to say Dunkein won’t be trying anything with your girl anytime soon.”

Ominis holds her arm closer to him with a slight scowl, making Sebastian laugh as he turns and leaves. Ominis leads her from the courtyard and towards the rickety old wooden long bridge. Despite the blowing wind through the rafters, it’s rather peaceful out.

He turns to her, grabbing both of her hands, and says, “I want to apologize for my behavior.”

“Please do,” she smirks while squeezing his hands. “I’ve never seen you act that way before.”

“I know,” he sighs with a tight frown. “I like to think I’m more in control of my more… unbecoming emotions.” He falls silent, his brows pinching while he rubs his thumbs over the tops of her hands. “Hearing him speak to you - asking you to dinner - it evoked a rather nasty feeling within me. It made me angry that he couldn’t see how much love I have for you, or that he did and he was doing it in spite of it. Either way, I did not like Hobhouse asking to spend time with you right in front of me.”

She looks down at their joined hands then back up to his distraught face.

She lets out a soft sigh, “You know I have no interest in spending time with Hobhouse, right? He’s merely a friend. And I use the term ‘friend’ very generously.”

“It may not be Hobhouse next time,” Ominis replies quickly. “It might be some other boy who fancies you. Someone… better.”

Ominis’ face falls and a grimace drags down his handsome features. She rubs her thumbs along the tops of his hands with a worried frown.

“Do you believe my love for you is so fickle?” she asks in a quiet voice.

He shakes his head earnestly, “No. That’s not at all what I think.” He falls silent once more before finally whispering, “But, it doesn’t mean that I don’t wonder if I’m good enough for you.”

She cups his cheek with a soft smile, “Ominis Gaunt - you are more than good enough for me. Don’t ever think otherwise. A million boys could walk up to me with their interests in courtship, but I would pay them no mind unless it was you. I love you, Ominis.”

A warm smile overtakes him while he presses her hand closer to him - his eyes fluttering shut.

“To hear you say that,” he chuckles, “makes this whole afternoon feel all the more foolish. I never should’ve let my emotions get the better of me. I deeply apologize, and I won’t let it happen again.”

She smiles, “Good. Although, you were quite amazing to watch. I wouldn’t mind dueling you sometime.” She reaches up and places a soft kiss on his lips, “But, for now, you have a romantic dinner to plan.”

She giggles as she lets him go and heads back towards the castle. He listens to her walking away with a blushing smile and he wonders to himself - how did he get so lucky?

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AN: sorry i haven't been posting much. im preganant and have been dealing with that and *looks at my hours on steam for Baldur's Gate 3* uhhh yeah let's not talk about that.

ANYWAYS, thought it would be fun to do a story with Ominis being a god at dueling. and also duncan slander hehe. i really love writing sebastian and mc and ominis banter. like they just goofball besties and i love it.

I may have let some Astarion leak all over Ominis (especially when he starts roasting Duncan) so that's my b.

hope to have more out soon! feedback always appreciated <3

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cranetreegang · 8 months

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Hi, I have a couple thoughts about your heir of slytherin request. I'm sending through here as I wasn't sure if you wanted it kept quiet.

I would think that specifically for the heir, the basilisk would 'know' they were at school, and would regularly call out to him. You know, 'free me, come find me,' that sort of thing. So Ominis is sorta tortured by fairly constant pleas.

The basilisk is not blind at this point, so some ideas about how it was destiny that Ominis was born blind because the basilisk would be his literal eyes. Maybe as magic grows stronger, or he becomes friends with the basilisk, he finds that the connection will allow him to sometimes see through basilisks eyes - similar to how Harry could see through Voldemort, or more interesting, that the connection works the other way, and Ominis finds he can kill someone if they look into his eyes.

just some thoughts :)

First of all, so sorry this took me so long to reply!!! Also I love your thoughts about this cause YES!!! I LOVE IT!!!

I've been busy, but I have been contemplating about Ominis and the True Heir/Serpent Bearer idea in the meantime. I had written down my initial thoughts and some research I've been looking through below:

"I would think that specifically for the heir, the basilisk would 'know' they were at school, and would regularly call out to him. You know, 'free me, come find me,' that sort of thing. So Ominis is sorta tortured by fairly constant pleas."

It seems we are on the same wavelength cause I was thinking the same thing!! I love the idea of Ominis hearing the Basilisk and it only ramps up more and more as he matures. I also really like the idea of him having dreams about the Basilisk (let me have my weird dream vision quests).

I have read that the Basilisk is in a magic sleep, so I was wondering if the Basilisk would still be able to communicate?? Anyways, lets get into the Chamber of Secrets itself.

"There was clear evidence that the Chamber had been opened more than once between its creation and the twentieth century."

"...the Gaunt family could not resist boasting of their knowledge. It can be presumed that they opened the Chamber and awakened the creature in different occasions, yet none of them dared unleash the monster, until Riddle."

It's also interesting that the Chamber of Secrets (at least according to this sources linked above) has been opened several times -> most likely by the Gaunts. And Corvinus Gaunt was instrumental in ensuring the Chamber of Secrets remained... ya know secret; by concealing the entrance to the CoS behind plumbing fixtures.

It seems the Gaunts have had several opportunities to open the CoS, unleash the Serpent of Slytherin aka the Basilisk, and wipe out the Muggleborns, yet they never did.

Which begs the question.... WHY??

And now this is where the theories shall take off!

What is a 'True Heir'? What does that mean?

Well it could mean several things:

The "true heir" could be someone with an extraordinary connection to Salazar Slytherin's magical bloodline, possessing unique powers and abilities inherited directly from him. This connection might manifest as an innate understanding of Parseltongue, the ability to communicate with serpents, and an affinity for powerful serpentine magic.

Could mean that a True Heir is destined to help Preserve Bloodlines/Legacies - or even unite Bloodlines - as well as being the official 'face' of the Gaunts and navigating the Political World of Wizards.

Now, what does it mean to be the Serpent Bearer?

I saw an interesting theory about the moles on Ominis' face creating the constellation "serpens caput". Thank you @rypnami for posting this!! It's been so interesting to deep dive into this idea!

The different meanings behind the "Serpent Head" is quite interesting:

Literary: The serpent is often associated with various symbolic meanings in different cultures, such as wisdom, transformation, danger, or deceit. The head of a serpent can represent leadership, control, or the beginning of a certain phenomenon.

Mythology and Religion: In many mythologies and religions, the head of a serpent might have a specific significance within those stories, representing power, knowledge, or temptation.

Astrology: In Western astrology, the "serpent's head" or "North Node" is associated with a point in a birth chart that represents one's karmic purpose, future direction, and personal growth.

Alchemic: In alchemy, the serpent is a common symbol associated with transformation, and its head could be seen as a representation of the initial stages of a transformative process.

This is to assume that Ominis is indeed a Serpent Bearer. To add on to this Ominis will more than likely be a Guardian of Secrets. All of the Gaunt's family secrets being passed down to Ominis (as shown with the Undercroft). But the most important thing Ominis is able to do is having a deeper or magical connection to serpents. Specifically, the Serpent of Slytherin.

Now, why would this be important?

As shown in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, the Serpent of Slytherin doesn't respond to just ANYONE speaking Parseltongue; as Harry tried to speak to the Basilisk, but she wouldn't listen to Harry's commands.

"She was blindly and unshakably devoted to the Heir of Slytherin...,"

"Though capable of independent thought, the Basilisk followed every command the Heir gave her. In fact, she only listened to the Heir of Slytherin, Tom Riddle (Voldemort) regardless of Harry being able to understand and speak Parseltongue to her in the Chamber of Secrets."

That's because the Basilisk will only respond and obey the words of a True Heir.

And this is why Ominis is so important to the Gaunts.

Why else would the Gaunts bother with Ominis?

Ominis doesn't follow their ideals, rebels against 'family tradition', and is inherently not a standard of 'Pure Blood Supremacy' (sorry but disabilities during those times were not exactly smiled upon. Most people with disabilities were seen as burdens to families and lots of other negative stigma associated around them).

You could make the argument that Ominis being a Gaunt would be enough for his family to keep him around -> the importance of his name outweighing everything else.

I'm more inclined to believe the argument that the Gaunts NEED Ominis. Ominis is important to them - NECESSARY to them - because Ominis is the True Heir of Slytherin and is the ONLY ONE able to control the Basilisk. They have a use/need for Ominis.

This must mean that 'True Heirs' don't come around very often (and how they come to be could be any number of reasons but let's just assume MaGiC). It would explain why the Basilisk was never unleashed all the other times the CoS was opened -> as they had no way to command the Serpent.

So why would anyone wanna unleash a deadly Basilisk that only one person could control onto a school of children besides being mustache twirling bad guys?

Lets picture this:

You are the Gaunts. You are on the cusp of running out of money, therefore about to run out of power. This has never happened before. You have ALWAYS been on top. ALWAYS been in power. Your name carries weight.

What would be a way to regain this loss of power and control? How could you convince the other Pureblood Families that you are still #1?

You demonstrate the power of a True Heir, and unleash the Basilisk onto Hogwarts (killing a whole generation of Muggleborns) and essentially controlling the school.

I'd say that's a pretty good way to gain control once again and more importantly power and respect. Not only would the Basilisk become like an attack dog for the Gaunts, but the Gaunts have shown they are willing to do ANYTHING to maintain their power. Because after all,

Power is Power

So, wrapping up, what might be some challenges Ominis may face?

Well, Ominis may be more inclined to use the Dark Arts/Dark Magic. He probably has to resist the temptation harder than most. It's in his blood, and I dare say his nature, to use Dark Magic.

Ominis also has the weight of 'living up to the family name'. He has the responsibility to either become just like a 'Gaunt'. Or, to show that even though he comes from a long history of Dark Magic, he is his own person -> capable of good.

Ominis more than likely does not like that he is a True Heir and he probably prays he isn't actually one (until he starts hearing the Basilisk's call for him). Now he's torn between who wants to be and what destiny is telling him to be. He has to deal with internal conflict of him feeling like no matter what he does, he will always be like his family - he will always use dark magic. In the end, he'll have to decide who he wants to be. A True Heir, or Ominis.

ALRIGHT to summarize this long post in a single sentence:

Ominis is more than likely the True Heir, and is the only one able to control the Serpent of Slytherin.

I would love to hear y'all's thoughts on this! The more I think about it, the more it makes sense (or I'm delusional and I'm connecting random dots that aren't there).

I've been writing an initial outline of how Ominis might come to terms with him being the True Heir and how he deals with it. Hopefully, I can post something about that soon!

I love discussions and no thought is a wrong thought!

Thanks for reading!! <3

#ominis gaunt #hogwarts legacy #hogwarts legacy ominis #serpent holder theory #serpent bearer theory #ominis is the true heir of slytherin #this is just a theory

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cranetreegang · 8 months

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Dammon!!!!!!!!

boyfriend material ❤️‍🔥

#bg3 #bg3 dammon #dammon #dammon my love

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cranetreegang · 8 months

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Let's talk...

My Dudes... I think I want to do a fic about Ominis and him being the possible 'true heir' and the 'serpent holder'.

But, I'm struggling with what exactly those things MEAN. Like what responsibilities and challenges does Ominis have to face to be these things. If anyone wants to send me their thoughts, I'm down to hear them.

Anyways... will meditate upon this.

#ominis gaunt #ominis the true heir #serpent holder theory

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cranetreegang · 8 months

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Girrrlll @eggymf 😝😜

I’ve had BG3 for about two years now. Early access was great and I’m so happy the game is finally out now cause wow. It’s even better than early access (and early access fing slapped). anyways out of all the romanceable characters… there’s only one on my camera roll 😏😏

DAMMON!!! I LOVE YOU!!!

(also if anyone wants to play bg3… 😏😏😏)

Tagging @freesiriusblack @roohuh

You have to marry the last fictional character in your camera roll: how screwed are you?

Tagged by the lovely @myfavouritelunatic

I am marrying...

Oh f- I'm screwed! Nice knowing you all

Tagging @androidsvsvikings @starrose17 @queenfinehair @ivarthebadbitch @faithcastiel @junie-00

#bg3 #dammon #baldur's gate 3

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cranetreegang · 8 months

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@eggymf

it's him OUR BOY!!! 😭😭😭😭😭😭

#i simp for dragon men #sorry not sorry #im also down bad for Malleus

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cranetreegang · 8 months

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Hello my beautiful simps

I will be hopefully posting some more Ominis stuff soon (and perhaps another angsty Sebastian piece hehe) ALSO I finished the chapter summary outline for the Ominis 7th Year story so YAY!!

Anyways, I had a question for the Sebastian lovers out there. I was curious, as I've been seeing most of his stories revolving around him being a #ladiesman, why Sebastian is labeled as such?

I mean, don't get me wrong, he's charismatic, but I never got the impression he was out there talking up with all the girls and sliding into those private owl letters. He just seems like he's really good at talking with people - but he never opens himself up to others well.

Like... he only has two friends. Ominis (his practical brother) and his literal SISTER. idk when I think of Sebastian, he just seems like a really focused dude and dating or even intimacy is the furthest thing from his mind.

But, I'm curious to know if I'm missing something (like I said I see a lot more fics of him being a #pussyslayer than him being a bookworm dork). Like what elevated him to the suave ladies man? Was there a specific ingame thing or just an understood fandom agreement lol

Also... I may keep thinking about Seb being a bookworm dork and it makes me swoon... mhm maybe it's time to make some fics for that...

#sebastian sallow #sebastian question

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cranetreegang · 8 months

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Hey, I just wanted to say, I found your consul Valerius fic and I absolutely LOVED it! It’s fantastic and also one of the best and most creative fics I’ve ever seen.

So I wanted to ask you about it - do you plan to continue with it or not?

Please don’t feel pressured to, I just wanted to ask you because I was not quite sure.

Thank you very much and have a wonderful day! 💗

Sorry this took long to get to! I was on vacay and just now got back!

First of all - Thank you so much!! I really enjoyed writing Valerius and it's one of my first longer fics I ever made and posted! Like seeing someone who enjoyed it really warms my heart and it means a lot <3 especially since I felt like I was getting really wild with some of the ideas towards the end LOL!!

Second of all - it's funny cause I have stuff written down to continue the Valerius story as I never had any intentions on leaving it on that cliffhanger like I did. Like I wanted to get into some DemonVal stuff and some angst around that.

Unfortunately, I lost the passion for the story and it totally bums me out that I lost the spark. I keep hoping one day I'll go back to it and continue the story. UGH!!

I'll try to go back and re-read the story and see if something kindles though! Maybe it's finally time to REALLY finish the story instead of leaving it on the worst ending possible haha!

Thank you so much for reaching out and I'm so happy you enjoyed the story <3 I hope you have a great day as well!!

#thanks for the ask!#i love asks #arcana valerius #consul valerius

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cranetreegang · 9 months

Text

Thunder - Ominis x FemReader

Summary: During a frightful storm, she comforts Ominis - despite feeling unworthy of such affections.

Word Count: ~1,200 words

Warnings: Hella fluffy

Read My Other Ominis Fics Here

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A clap of thunder startles her from her slumber. She blinks several times and winces when a bright light floods the room. Rain pelts against the window and the smell of a summer storm penetrates through the fresh linens surrounding her. Shoving her face into her pillow, she attempts to slip back to sleep. Another roar of thunder rattles the windows and sends her heart from a calm rhythm to a rapid beat. She frowns, the warmth and weight of Ominis wrapped around her noticeably absent. Half-asleep, she rolls over to reach for him, her hand drifting across the cool blanket to his arm. He gasps at her touch and she’s fully awake from the startled noise.

Through the flashing lights, she sees his hands gripping the sheets, his body far too rigid and trembling with each thunderous rumble, and his jaw clenched tightly shut.

“Ominis,” she says in a gentle voice while she moves closer to him.

“Yes?” The tension in his reply is palpable.

Slowly approaching him, she rests her hand on his cheek. He lets out a shaky breath, his eyes squeezing shut and his brows furrowing. The thunder rattles his entire body, but his sealed mouth refuses to let out a whimper.

“I’m fine,” he whispers through clenched teeth. “Go back to sleep. Please.”

She frowns, moving her hand down to his shoulder furthest from her then tugging on him to roll towards her. His hand flies up to snatch her wrist - his breath leaving hard through his nose.

“I don’t need your pity.”

She squeezes his shoulder, “I know, darling. I just want to be close to you. Please?”

His brows twist up into an anguished expression then his head turns toward her, lightning illuminating his features. With another clap of thunder, he finally rolls himself onto her chest. She doesn’t hesitate to wrap her arms around him, holding him tightly against her. Covering his ear, she presses his head into her. She cards her fingers through his hair - placing soft kisses on the top of his head - while her other hand clutches onto his side to keep him from leaving her embrace again.

The thunder roars again, and his hands find purchase onto her night clothes. His hot breaths come out heavy and shaky against the flesh of her neck, sending chills down her spine. He trembles with every lull, then jolts when the thunder echoes into the room. With her nose buried in his soft hair, she catches the scent of his earthy-arborary soap. Despite his shivering, he’s so warm against her.

Her voice barely above a whisper over the downpour of rain, she confides, “When I was younger, my father taught me a trick to time the storm. So I would know if it was getting closer or further away. When the lightning would flash, we would count together.”

She taps his shoulder once the room lights up and says, “One… Two… Three… Four…,”

Thunder crackles and he lets out a breath.

She taps his shoulder again, “One… Two… Three…,”

Another clap of thunder and he digs himself into the crook of her neck.

“Count with me, Ominis,” she whispers, tapping his shoulder. “One…,”

“Two…,” he whispers.

“Three…,” they say in unison then they’re answered with a rolling wave of thunder.

His body relaxes with each tap, and they count together until the pauses between lightning and thunder narrows down to two.

“It’s getting closer,” she observes.

She feels his frown etching into her skin, and it hurts her to feel him so distressed.

“We’ll get through this,” she hugs him closer to her while he scoffs.

“You must think I’m so pathetic,” he hisses into her neck. “Some man I am. Can barely handle a thunderstorm without falling apart.”

She shushes him, kissing his forehead as she does, “No. No, my sweet. I’ve never been in a storm like this before either. I swear, if you weren’t here, I’d be a mess.”

His brows pinch, “You don’t need to lie for my sake. You can admit that I’m being utterly ridiculous.”

She taps his shoulder, holding him close to her just as the crack of thunder deafens them. He flinches then lets out a frustrated sigh.

“You shouldn’t have to do this,” he seethes. “Holding me like some child.”

“Ominis,” she says firmly. “I will not listen to you speak of yourself this way. You are not a burden - not to me. I don’t think any less of you. I only wish I could ease you more.”

He nuzzles into her neck with a soft whimper, “I… I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be. Just count with me, love. The storm will soon pass.”

As they count together, Ominis’ rigid body begins to relax with each distant rumble of thunder fading into the distance. The rain patters against the windows and Ominis has fully melted into her embrace - releasing his death-grip on her clothes to hold onto her arm instead. His thumb rubs up and down her forearm in deep thought while she continues to stroke his hair. A warm wetness stains her neck, and her heart twists when she realizes he’s been silently crying. She brushes his tears away from his cheek - his eyes squeezing shut from her tender caress.

“Storms don’t bother me,” he breaks the silence with his declaration. “I find them invigorating. It’s just… sometimes… They remind me of times when I was alone. Of being a scared little boy, helpless and confused as to why the entire world would suddenly become so loud.”

He grimaces, his nose scrunching up, as he spits out, “I hate being that little boy.”

As she imagines what it must’ve been like to be him - all alone in his room, crying for help that would never come - she nearly breaks into tears herself. She closes her eyes with a frown, resting her head on top of his. He lets out a shuddering, deep breath, squeezing her arm as he does.

“I’m so sorry, Ominis. I wish you never had to feel that way,” she whispers in a strained, shaky voice.

He smiles faintly against her neck, “Don’t be. It’s not your fault. In fact, you’ve only made it easier to deal with.”

His head turns up enough to face her with an earnest expression - his eyes akin to the bright stars in the night sky or the cool blue moon itself.

“Thank you,” he whispers, cupping her cheek to feel the contours of her face, “You are once again my solace in the storm.”

She giggles, kissing his forehead once more, “There’s my silver-tongued poet.”

He smiles fully at feeling her lips stretch under his palm and the corner of her eyes crinkling. Kissing her cheek, he goes back to nuzzling into the warmth of her neck.

She holds him tighter as she whispers, “I love you, Ominis.”

“And I love you,” he whispers back in a quiet, reverential tone. “More than you could possibly imagine.”

She listens as his breaths slow and his grip on her loosens. Looking down at him, she strokes his messy, blonde hair from his restful face. She smiles softly to herself at the faint smile tugging on his lips.

“You never have to brave the world alone any more. As I would hold you through any storm, my love,” she whispers, her voice a gentle murmur - like the soft caress of a summer breeze - as she cradles him close to her in a protective, warm embrace.

With her eyes growing heavy from his comforting hold and weight against her chest, she drifts back to her peaceful slumber.

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AN: we had a crazy series of thunderstorms a while back. like they were so wild and i was inspired to write this.

Hogwarts Legacy Masterlist

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cranetreegang · 9 months

Note

Random question. Favorite author/s?

I love this question!

Got me really thinking and most of them are on AO3 haha! But, this is probably a way longer post than it needs to be BUT LET ME GUSH!

FanFic Authors

Krebony - I love their story You Are My Home. It is such a sweet Ominis story and I am praying for the day it gets updated cause I am invested in what happens. I love the way Ominis is written (strong and sweet and protective and cunning) and it's a super sweet story with angst.

Lana_Morrigan - I love her Arcana - Julian story The Mirror Cracked. I love how she incorporated fairy tales into her story and it was just such a fun and heartfelt read. I enjoy reading very different prose from my own -> helps me grow more and branch out from the normal.

heartsof_theround - omg I love her story Our Floral Courtship. It was so cute and kept me on the edge of my seat. I love how she used the language of flowers (makes me want to do something in regards to that it was just so freaking CUTE).

@applinsandoranges - I love pretty much all of her one-shots because they're so well written and I love how sweet and cute most of them are (im sure everyone is sensing a trend with this and i am a sucker for cute and sweet content).

@eggymf - I love that she's putting in so much time and effort into crafting a long, multi-chapter story. I love hearing her ideas and how she executes them into her stories. I love how she writes Ominis - and I'm excited to see where OPPAW goes!

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NON FANFIC Writers

Kazutoyo Maehiro, Natsuko Ishikawa, Banri Oda - the genius writers behind Final Fantasy XIV: Heavensward (the critically acclaimed award winning expansion lolll). I am still reeling over the emotional devastation they caused me, and it's been a year since I played it. The characters they crafted will stick with me for a long, long time. It's truly amazing how someone can make a character - then make you care so much about them. It's an art I would love to hone and master - and I admire them greatly for being able to do this so freaking well. Like I don't cry much when I'm reading, but damn did I cry like a baby. A literal SOBBING BABY. Just... amazing.

Kentaro Miura - the legend who wrote Berserk. I'm not really into gritty, dark stories, but wow. Just wow. He made me appreciate the trials and hardships of what a character/person may go through - and how they may emerge and change from it. It's really beautiful how you can write the human spirit that survives even when everything seems against them. It's really made me think about how I write future characters -> what makes them human

J.K. Rowling - probs a controversial take, but I admire how she created a world, a literal world, that is such an huge part of society. When you think of wizards -> you think of Harry Potter. I believe that's an amazing accomplishment to have so many people love your stories and to be so invested in this magical world. She inspired a lot of people's imaginations and I think that's the end goal of every writer -> to inspire imagination. And I hope to keep doing that (even with my dumb lil writings about Ominis or whatever)

Brandon Sanderson - Currently reading Mistborn, but he's the first author that I'm reading with a different sort of lens. I'm viewing his work as a fellow author (i know, i know - hot take of me calling myself an author butttt). It's been interesting breaking down his work and how he structures things. I love how he's made the magic system and world easy to digest without it being boring. You're in this world - and it's so organic. You learn more and more without it being overwhelming. You start to really understand the magic system, and it's so freaking cool. I love his prose - as I'm not the biggest fan of flowery prose - and his is a bit more straight to the point.

-------------------------------------------

There's many more I could put on here - honestly there's so many fanfic writers that don't get enough credit, but they're doing the Lord's work out there. I love all of their creativity and how they inspire others with their stories and characters.

Thanks again for the ask! <3 <3

#favorite authors #thanks for the ask!

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cranetreegang · 9 months

Text

Hogwarts Legacy Super Awesome Masterlist 😎✌

Ominis Gaunt

5th Year - AO3 Link

6th Year - AO3 Link

Requests - AO3 Link

Sebastian Sallow

In the Light of Death - AO3 Link

#hogwarts legacy masterlist #ominis gaunt #sebastian sallow

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cranetreegang · 9 months

Text

Ominis Gaunt 6th Year Master List

===========================

Archive of Our Own Link

===========================

🤜 He's a Gaunt 🤛

With a courtship with Ominis, she isn't spared from the more viscous rumors surrounding him.

🌩 Thunder 🌩

During a frightful storm, she comforts Ominis - despite feeling unworthy of such affections.

😡 The Duel 😡

Jealousy is an ugly feeling. And Ominis finds himself having to deal with it.

#hogwarts legacy masterlist #ominis gaunt

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cranetreegang · 9 months

Text

Ominis Gaunt Requests

===========================

Archive of Our Own Link

===========================

👦The Polyjuice Ploy👦

Sebastian and Ominis, after reading through an old textbook, get the idea of Ominis drinking a Polyjuice Potion to enjoy a day of sight and surprise a certain special someone ;)

😥Ominis' Family😥

Headcanon of Ominis' family followed by a fic of Ominis opening up to MC about his childhood.

#hogwarts legacy masterlist #ominis gaunt

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cranetreegang · 9 months

Text

MC: Don't talk about mah baby like that! >:(

He's a Gaunt - Ominis x FemReader

Summary: With a courtship with Ominis, she isn't spared from the more viscous rumors surrounding him.

Word Count: ~4,400 words

Warnings: Mild Violence/Leander Slander

----------------------------

They’re crossing the courtyard at a slow, leisurely pace. He’s close to her ear while he speaks in a soft, low whisper for only her to hear as he escorts her to class - stifling their laughter as he informs her of the latest gossip he’s overheard. With a warm smile, she looks up at the boy she’s tangled arms with. His head is angled towards her and he has a similar, tender, smile playing on his lips. She subconsciously squeezes his arm and he laughs.

“Have you not grown tired of my face yet?” He teases with a smirk.

She huffs, a blush staining her cheeks, “What makes you say that?”

He laughs again, “I can feel when you’re staring at me, darling. And you’ve not stopped since we’ve crossed Central Hall. Have I grown a second nose without realizing? Or have I finally bored you with my ramblings?”

Her eyes don’t leave his warming face and she leans her head on his shoulder for a moment, before standing back up right.

“You could never bore me, my dear Ominis. And I would apologize for my staring, but I’m not actually sorry,” she giggles as he grins widely at her. “I can’t help myself. You’re captivating. Two noses and all.”

His cheeks flush into a beautiful shade of pink and red. His eyes, gray and shining, see past her as he whispers,

“You flatter me. But, it’s me who’s the lucky one to have you on my arm.”

She smiles and squeezes his arm once more, wrapping herself more around him. While they aren’t entirely open with their relationship out in public, it’s these little gestures that send her over the moon. In fact, as far as anyone is concerned, it appears as if she’s the one guiding him around. Something Ominis uses to his advantage to be as close to her as possible - while maintaining an air of decency and propriety. Ever the gentleman, she muses to herself.

He leads them around a corner and his wand points right to where her classroom is just down the hallway. A hint of a frown plays on his lips and hardens his eyes. She smiles at how disgruntled he gets when they have to part - however brief it may be.

“Thank you for walking me to class,” she whispers.

“Of course.”

She takes in his handsome features one last time then says, “I’ll meet you at the Great Hall after?”

He turns to her and untangles himself from her grasp. His hand finds hers and he takes it up to his lips to press a soft kiss.

“I look forward to it,” he replies with a smile.

Her heart skips a beat and she keeps a tight hold of his hand to keep him from drifting too far. Sparing a quick glance around to ensure they were alone, she leans closer to him and his breath hitches at how near she is.

She places a kiss on his cheek then whispers, “Until then.”

His eyes are wide, and his cheeks are engulfed in a bright red that spreads all the way to his ears. He swears his mind blanks from the simple show of affection.

She giggles at how easily flustered he gets. Before she can slip away from his grasp, he pulls her back around the corner in a swift movement. He pockets his wand and cups her cheek to hold her in place then he crashes his lips to hers in an all too warm kiss. Hearing her soft hum, makes him smirk and he parts with a slight grin still on his face. He presses his forehead to hers with a sigh.

“Cheeky minx,” he teases with a smirk. “You make it impossible to want to leave you.”

She giggles, “That’s the point.”

He smiles, his eyes aflame with a kind of joy and adoration she’s never seen in anyone else before. Shutting his eyes, he releases his hold on her - allowing her to step away from him.

“I’ll see you soon,” she smiles at him as she finally heads towards her class.

“Have a good lesson.”

She spares a final glance back towards him, and he’s angled towards her with a soft smile. She practically skips into the classroom, her fingers playing on her smiling lips the rest of the lecture.

The class is wholly uneventful and she’s more than ready to head to the Great Hall by the time it ends. She makes it a few steps outside the classroom when someone rushes up to be next to her.

“Hello,” Leander greets with a tense smile.

Her brows raise with surprise, “Hello, Leander.”

“Nice day, eh?”

“I… suppose it was, yes,” she cranes her head slightly while he lets out an awkward chuckle. A silence falls between them as they continue walking. He’s fidgeting with his hands and she can’t stand it anymore.

“What’s wrong? You seem nervous,” she questions.

Leander sighs and stops walking, causing her to do the same. He glances around before saying,

“You and Gaunt seem pretty close.”

Her lips part in surprise, but she gives a slow nod, “Yes. I’d say so.”

Leander groans, running his hand through his slicked back hair, “Look, I don’t know how to say this, but, I saw you two,” he looks around and leans in close to whisper, “kissing before class.”

“Oh,” she whispers and her whole body flushes. She waits as a pair of classmates walk by before asking, “Did anyone else see?”

He shakes his head, “No, it was just me.”

“Oh, good,” she chuckles. “Would you mind keeping it to yourself? We would rather keep our relationship a bit more on the private side, if you wouldn’t mind.”

He nods, “Y-Yeah… um,” he rubs the back of his neck, “so you are-, you two are… together then?”

A faint blush warms her cheeks as she smiles, “Yes. I suppose he is courting me.”

She swears Leander turns a shade paler at the statement and her eyes widen at the sudden distress.

“Is everything alright?” She wonders.

Leander shifts between his feet, looking nervously around as if someone were to appear at any moment.

“I know you’re still unfamiliar with many of the Families,” he begins with a tight frown, “which is why you probably don’t know.”

“Don’t know what?” She questions, her features contorting into worry.

“You’re in danger,” he hisses under his breath, his eyes darting all around.

“Danger?” she whispers back. “From what? Who?”

Leander huffs and says between clenched teeth, “For being with a Gaunt.”

She recoils a bit with wide eyes, “What? How?”

He sighs, “The Gaunt family comes from a long, long line of Pure-bloods. Direct heirs to Salazar Slytherin - they are. And they have always been heavily involved in the Dark Arts. Everyone knows that.”

“What does that have to do with Ominis?”

He lets out a snort, “Well, isn’t it obvious?”

She crosses her arms with pinched brows, “No. It’s not. Speak plainly, Leander. What’re you trying to get at?”

“Gaunt-,”

“Ominis,” she cuts him off with a glare. “His name is Ominis.”

Leander huffs, “Ominis, is still a Gaunt. I mean, do you truly believe he’s never partaken in the Dark Arts before? It’s practically ingrained in his very bones. He was born into it. It’s a part of him. It’s who he is.

She’s shaking her head, so Leander continues, “Do you truly think him being born blind is a coincidence? He was cursed, for Merlin’s sake. Why else would he still be blind? And if you stay with him, you’ll end up cursed as well. It’s only a matter of time.”

“Enough!” She hisses. “You don’t know anything, Leander. You have no idea what he’s like. And he most certainly isn’t just a ‘Gaunt’.”

She continues walking to the Great Hall in hopes to end the conversation, but Leander easily catches up with her in a few long strides.

“Well, I do know you aren’t Pure-blooded. Do you have any idea what the Gaunt’s do to those not of Pure-blooded status? Even if you are interested in their unwanted son, his family will never allow your courtship - let alone marriage. They’ll only view you as someone dating above their station. You have no real future with him.”

Her breath hitches at the thought and her nostrils flare - her skin beginning to burn hotter with his every word.

“Then that’s our problem, Leander. It doesn’t concern you,” she snaps with a sharp glare towards him.

They walk down the stairs of Central Hall where several eyes follow them as they pass. She grimaces at her outburst - noting how her nails are digging into the flesh of her palms.

Leander huffs, “Why are you so insistent on being with him?”

She rolls her eyes with a scoff.

“Why are you so insistent on me not being with him? Why do you care?”

“Because I am trying to get you to understand that you shouldn’t be associating yourself with someone like him. You are far too kind, and smart, an-and pretty to let it all go to waste.”

She freezes in place and stares at him with wide eyes.

“Leander… are you… what are you doing?”

Leander runs his hand through his red hair and takes a deep breath, “I am trying to say that you should be with someone better. Someone who can treat you right. And who won’t potentially corrupt you with Dark Magic, if he hasn’t already.”

“‘If he hasn’t already’?” She clenches her fists at her sides. She sucks in a sharp breath and looks away from him, “I am sorry you have such a poor conception of Ominis, but he is not who you believe him to be. He is kind and I am quite happy to be with him. You would know all of this if you’d taken the time to actually get to know him - instead of assuming all these horrible things about him.”

Her voice wavers and she curses herself for getting so emotional over this. These rumors aren’t unfamiliar as Ominis would bring them up himself on occasion - telling her how outlandish some are, and how humorous he finds them. But, to hear these vile things first-hand is something she’s wholly underprepared for. Especially since she knows how beautiful of a person he is.

“While I appreciate your concern, it is totally misplaced,” she turns on her heel away from him. “Now, if you would excuse me, I would like to end this discussion.”

She’s about to storm away when he calls after her.

“He’s probably already used some of his dark magic on you, and you’ve not realized.”

Despite knowing better, she freezes in place.

He continues, “That’s probably why you’re so insistent on being with him. He’s used the Dark Arts to seduce you, and you don’t even know it. Why else would you be with someone like Gaunt-,”

She whirls around, and her fist connects with Leander’s jaw with a satisfying smack before her mind can tell her to stop. Leander stumbles back in surprise until he falls on his rear, clutching onto his face. Classmates all around them exclaim and jeer at the spectacle while Leander looks up at her with teary eyes. Her knuckles ache and radiate pain all the way up her arm, but she refuses to let Leander see that.

“Keep his name, and your disgusting disingenuous accusations about him, out of your mouth, Prewett,” she seethes.

“Young lady!” Madame Scribner rushes up with a scowl. “You cannot just assault your classmate like some sort of barbarian!”

Her eyes widen and look between the furious librarian and the nearly sobbing Leander, “I-, But-,”

“No ‘buts’,” she snaps. “Detention. Now. You’re coming with me.”

Madame Scribner yanks her by the arm and drags her away towards the library. Laughter and more jeers follow after her while she groans to herself. Ominis is going to kill her.

Ominis keeps angling his head towards the entrance of the Great Hall while he pushes his food around.

She’s late.

He shakes his head and takes a few bites. She’s probably caught up with class, or one of her many friends stopped her on the way here. Now he wishes he had been there to walk with her to the Great Hall. His brows pinch while he shoves more of his food around his plate. Excited chatter is shared throughout the hall and he’s all but tuned it out until her name reaches his ears.

“What?” Ominis perks up. “What did you say?”

A girl across from him giggles, “Oh, didn’t you hear? She punched Leander right in the face! Shame you can’t see him right now, Gaunt. She gave him a good wallop and he’s pouting with his fellow cubs about it.”

“She… punched Leander?” Ominis’ brows dip in confusion.

“I know. Such a Muggle thing of her to do. Personally, I would’ve used a hex of some sort,” the girl states. “Anyways, it’s too bad Madame Scribner caught her in the act. I'd have given her a chocolate frog for taking down one of those Gryffindor prats a peg or two.”

The girls go back to gossiping amongst themselves and Ominis grimaces. Sebastian takes his place next to him and says,

“Take it you heard about her getting detention.”

Ominis nods, “Just now. Do you know why she lashed out at him?”

Sebastian laughs, “I’m sure he said something stupid, and she merely retaliated.”

“She doesn’t just ‘retaliate’ unless there’s good reason,” Ominis states as his mind begins to whirl. “Did Leander start a fight with her? Did he hurt her? Are you sure all she’s getting is just an evening of detention? They aren’t wanting to expel her or anything, are they?”

“I don’t know, Ominis,” Sebastian replies with a curt tone. “All I know is that she punched him - and now she’s in detention for it. Although,” Sebastian chuckles and whispers into Ominis’ ear, “with how nervous Leander looks every time he glances your way - I’d wager he might’ve said something about you to her.”

Ominis scowls, “What in Merlin’s name could he have possibly said to warrant her to do something so reckless?”

Another student sits down, gossiping about the incident as well. Ominis cranes his head towards the eager student.

“I saw the whole thing! Leander was talking to her - kept hearing Gaunt’s name being thrown about. The Dark Arts, too. Well, she didn’t like it one bit. She decked him right in the jaw and he started crying! Then she said, ‘Keep his name out of your mouth, Prewett’. Oh, it was class!”

Ominis’ shoulders stiffen and Sebastian places a reassuring hand on his forearm.

“It’ll be fine, Ominis. You’ll see her after detention then you can find out what actually happened - instead of all this hearsay rubbish,” Sebastian reassures, then he starts to chuckle. “I do wish you could see Leander though. His face is as swollen as his eyes. I’d wager it’ll take all year for him to recover his pride.”

Ominis is silent the rest of dinner. Once he’s in the Common Room, he paces back and forth while his mind jumps from one worrying question to the next.

Had he put her in a position to act like that? What did Prewett say to her? How were the Dark Arts involved? She’s not unfamiliar with the unsavory rumors about him, so why react so violently?

He has half a mind to go find Prewett himself, but the notion does nothing other than sate his restlessness. He lets out a heavy breath and resigns himself to wait for her by the lake-side window. Listening to the water flowing past the glass is enough to distract his thoughts. Soon, the Common Room is devoid of his fellows - leaving him alone to wait for her.

It’s late by the time she arrives. Her hand is sore from having to write out 1,000 lines of ‘I will not resort to violence against my fellow classmates’ and she has book organization in the morning to top it all off. She’s shuffling towards her dorm when her eyes land on him by the center bay window - his attention towards the lake. She almost prays he doesn’t notice her.

“I missed you at dinner.”

His soft but stern voice echoes in the quiet Common Room. He faces her with a neutral expression, but makes no move to stand.

She grimaces, trudging over to him with a tight frown, then takes a seat across from him on the ground. His whole body is rigid - his lips pursed and his brows pinched. She bites her lip and stares at the stone floor between them.

“I’m sorry. I… got detention,” she admits in a quiet voice.

Ominis nods, “I heard. What made you think punching Leander, of all people, to be a good idea?”

She shifts her gaze out into the dark abyss of the lake.

“I… didn’t think about it.”

“Then, why?” He seethes in a sharp tone. “Why would you do something so extraordinarily foolish and reckless? Even for you. You could’ve gotten in serious trouble. You could have been expelled. And for what? Mhm? Tell me. Tell me what was worth your possible expulsion?”

She looks back at him, taking in the underlying worry pinching at his handsome features despite his harsh words saying otherwise. She moves to be next to him and his hand is quick to be on her thigh. She cups his cheek to smooth out the wrinkles until he softens his hard gaze. He lowers his head until he’s able to rest it against her own.

“I’m sorry,” she whispers. “I didn’t mean to make you worry.”

His hand covers hers, lowering it from his face then he holds it gently in both of his. His fingers graze over her knuckles and he can feel patches of hot skin against his cool touch. He grimaces.

“Did you do it because of me?”

She frowns, “I did it because Leander was saying cruel things. He had no idea what he was talking about.”

“I’d like to know what happened,” he says quietly.

She’s tempted to keep the vile things Leander said to herself. But, with how Ominis gazes at her with concern and how he holds her, she finds it impossible to keep anything from him.

“Leander saw us kissing before class today,” she admits in a hushed tone.

His brows raise, “Oh…,”

“He thought it imperative to tell me about how dangerous you are. How you’ll ‘corrupt’ me with the Dark Arts at any moment, if you haven’t already. Then he brought up how you are Pure-blooded and I am… not,” she catches a flicker of a wince rippling across his features and she grimaces. “Which, I know you don’t care about, but your family does.”

He shifts into a stoic expression with his lips in a tight line. At her silence, he whispers, “What else? I know he had to have said more. Tell me. I need to hear all of it.”

She squeezes his hand with a heavy breath, “He said you were cursed. It’s why you’re… blind. And that it would be only a matter of time before I’m cursed as well. Then he said that you must be using the Dark Arts on me otherwise I wouldn’t want to be with you. And that’s when I punched him.”

She keeps her gaze away from his and instead stares at his hand stroking hers. He lingers on her knuckles with every pass, causing his brows to furrow each time.

He’s silent for several breaths before he finally whispers, “I see.”

She looks up at him and takes in his troubled expression. Shifting closer to him, she holds his hand tighter.

“I don’t believe a word of it, Ominis. I know you. And if Leander had taken the time to know you too, then he wouldn’t have said those things.”

Ominis shakes his head, “But, not all those things he said were untrue. My family does care about blood status. A great deal, in fact. And there was a time when my parents suspected I had been cursed. I am also not… unfamiliar with the Dark Arts.”

She squeezes his hand with a soft sigh, “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be. It’s not your fault,” Ominis gives her a small smile. “I’ve accepted who I am. Ailments and all.”

She leans down and kisses the top of his hand still covering hers, “And I love you all the same.”

His eyes warm into a gentle adoration and his smile fully forms.

“And I love you,” he whispers. “I… wish he didn’t tell you those things. I…,” he sighs and feels over her bruised knuckles with a grimace. “I don’t want you to feel like you have to defend me. The words he said - I’ve heard them all before - you already know this,” his blueish-gray eyes try to find hers.

Under the rippling water, Ominis’ features become a living canvas of dark aquamarine - emitting a soft radiance which outlines his every contour with a liquid glow. Kneeling next to him, she feels akin to being at the altar of some god. With a shaky hand, she guides him to face towards her - earning a soft smile from him. Her lip trembles as Leander’s words - and all the other horrible rumors - claw at her thoughts.

“I hate that you’ve ever had to hear such things, Ominis. Truly. Listening to Leander speak so heinously about you, it-,it broke my heart,” her voice wavers and she sucks in a sharp breath to keep herself from crying.

He cups her cheek and urges her to him, pressing each other together with their noses brushing.

“None of it matters to me. I only care about what the people closest to my heart think of me,” he professes.

She gives a small nod, “I know. Doesn’t make it right though.”

He kisses her forehead, tenderly tucking her hair behind her ear.

“Come here, my sweet,” he tugs her to his chest and she nestles herself against him. “I promise - their words don’t hurt me. I’m more upset they’ve caused you such distress.”

She hides into the crook of his neck, “I’m sorry. You’re very important to me, Ominis.”

His arms tighten around her, “And you are to me as well,” he sighs while resting his head onto hers. “Promise me you won’t lash out like that again. It’s not worth you getting into trouble.”

She lifts herself up enough to look at him, and she says in a rather stern voice, “I can’t promise you that.”

He’s about to protest when she continues,

“I will try to keep my… temper in check. But, I won’t promise that I’ll stand idly by as him - or anyone else for that matter - speak about you in such a vile manner. I won’t. I would suffer any punishment for it as well. Detention, expulsion - none of it means anything to me if I chose to stand by and let the ones I love be talked down upon.”

“I… didn’t know you felt so strongly about this,” he whispers. His eyes shut and he lets out a soft chuckle, “You’re so very ornery,” he has a gentle look as he nods. “Fine. It seems you’ve made up your mind - and who am I to try to change that,” he sighs while stroking her cheek. “Just try not to go around beating up the whole school - would you?”

She kisses his cheek then places herself back against his chest, “Fine. I’ll try.”

He sighs at how warm she is against him and he places another kiss on top of her forehead. He’s silent, enjoying the calmness of her breaths and the gentleness of her heart against him. He plays with her hair in deep thought, nearly lulling to sleep when her soft voice breaks the silence.

“I do hope some of the things he said aren’t true,” she murmurs. Before he can ask, she continues with a heavy voice,

“He said our courtship would never last. That I have no future with you because your family would never allow us…,” she trails off and he feels over her face to find a frown tugging on her lips.

“Allow us to what?” His question is just above a whisper.

“To marry.”

His eyes widen then his features fall into a tight grimace.

“It’s true. They would never give their blessing to us,” he murmurs then a warm smile starts to form. He plays with her hair as he shyly asks, “You would consider marriage… with me?”

She snorts with a soft chuckle, “You’ll have to propose to know that answer, Ominis.”

His whole face breaks into a bright smile while his cheeks ignite in an even brighter blush. It spreads all the way to his ears and she giggles while stroking his cheek.

“Well, no matter the answer, you’ve made me very happy to hear that you’re serious about a possible future together,” he admits in a quiet voice. “I’ve thought about it as well. While my family will never approve of us, I don’t rightly care. I want to be together. I want to be with you for as long as you’ll have me.”

She smiles, “Good. Because I want the same. We’ll figure it out. Nothing will keep us apart.”

With a tender kiss, they seal their promise to one another. He holds her close, unable to stop smiling.

“I have to know,” he says in a teasing tone, “did Prewett actually cry?”

She giggles and buries herself into his neck, “Like a baby.”

He laughs, holding her tighter, “Oh, what I would’ve given to have heard that.”

They giggle together, basking in each other’s embrace under the lake’s tranquil waters.

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