highmarc

[highmarc]

Happy. He was once. // Pt. 3

Pt.1 is here

Pt.2 is here

This one is not angsty, rather fluffy-ish? Like a piece of chocolate after a dementor attack.

Hope you enjoy it, even though lately I feel like deleting everything here, lmao.

GN main character. Ominis has feelings towards MC. MC doesn’t see that, because they basically live in guilt.

TW: stupid grammar? not proofread yet

Word count: 1422

The two friends stop in a tavern. Ominis’s auror friend practises their question-dodging technique, while he enjoys a chocolate frog and his friend’s company. The worse is yet to come.

Sadly, i don't know the original artist. If you happen to know them - please, write their name in comments, I'll add it here.

The tavern met the two with its usual hustle and bustle – loud guffawing, busy chit chatters, sweet scent of butterbeer mixed with something less nice – perspiration and awful odor of some unknown kind. But it all was far better than dark corridors of Azkaban, its labyrinthine passages, wet cold walls, hungry deranged stares of prisoners... The lack of dementors was a cherry on top of the cake called “The Three Broomsticks”.

Walking in, Ominis had nearly tripped because of all the people coming in and out, but his friend, again, was there for him and saved the situation, catching him by the sleeve.

The two took open seats somewhere in the corner – a luxury in such a busy hour – away from the prying eyes of curious patrons. Ominis still didn't look well with his skin pale and head down – he felt worn out. Both physically and emotionally.

“This is what you get for meeting dementors. Nasty creatures.” –  he thought.  

Gaunt let out a sigh and closed his eyes – it was too bright, so bright here that it made his head ache. Was it daylight or candles? Or even both? He didn’t smell candles, so, it must be a very sunny day today. He didn’t like days like these. He enjoyed gloomy autumn afternoons – the sound of rain tapping on the roof, gentle leaves falling to his feet, worrying birds flying here and there; he wasn’t fond of summers, as you can tell for sure. Summers gave him headache. And even more than summers he hated having to suffer from headaches. The loud atmosphere of the place didn’t help either.

 Happily, the auror knew exactly what to do. They left their seat in haste, leaving their friend for minutes; they soon returned with two butterbeers.

“First aid coming!” – they hugged Ominis, patting his back.

 “It's going to be all right. Here, have this.”

They took a chocolate frog out of their coat’s pocket and placed it onto their friend’s palm. He smiled and shook his head in disbelief.

“A chocolate frog? Are you serious? An auror with a chocolate frog in their pocket. Remarkable.”

Ominis chuckled. Sometimes he forgot how childish they could be in all their seriousness and coldness. An auror of such experience – daring, intimidating, even, was a walking soft spot.

But everybody has soft spots; and their were, definitely, chocolate, butterbeer and their friends. Ominis had hoped he was on the list of soft spots too. On a different one, though, the one which included, well, infatuations. Though, his hopes for closer relationships, proper wooing, always dashed against the cliffs of their “aurorship”. For them he would forever remain a close friend – nothing more – which must be protected from the darkness of the world and comforted every time he needed them.

“I'll say.” They smiled back and started drinking their butter beer, taking large sips, while Ominis was busy opening the chocolate frog.

“Which card did I get?” –  he asked impatiently, showing the card to the auror from the wrong side. They gently turned it, so the picture would face them.  

“Ah. Ignatia Wildsmith. You have three of these. If I remember it right.”

“Ugh. Yes. It's the forth. She’s so annoying. Keep it, it's yours after all.” – he said in a sorrowful manner and placed the card on the table. The pompous looking witch soon disappeared from the frame.

“So, you're feeling better, I see.” – Ominis’s friend smiled triumphantly, finishing off their beer.

“All thanks to you.”

“It's the least I can do for you.”

“You promised to tell me something.”

The auror sighed in annoyance.

“Oh, can we just drink butterbeer without discussing something this important...”

Gaunt chuckled, recalling how many times they had discussed “something important” here before.

“No, it's how one deals with trouble – butterbeer and the Three Broomsticks. A magical combination. Magical stress reliever!”

“Hmph. Joke as much as you will, but we could have been kissed by dementors. A few not so pleasant moments ago.”

The wizard felt his heart sink. Heavy silence fell between the two suddenly. Even a joking manner of telling such grave news didn't save the situation. The patrons became quieter – who could resist the urge to overhear a talk about something this dangerous and strange?

“Wh-“ Gaunt started only to be interrupted.

“I can barely cast my patronus now. Failed a few times before, actually.” – his friend started whispering.

They smiled, but how lucky they were that Ominis wasn't able to see it. A very bitter smile that was. Desperate. Deceiving.

“Is this even possible?” – he asked in frustration. –  “I thought it's forever - once you learn it, then you just use it like any other spell.”

“No, it's more complicated than that.” – the auror started babbling.

“I just... Can't do it. Can't cast it. As of late. It's a miracle I did this time. maybe it's because you were there. In danger. I just remembered how happy we were. Once ... Even for such a short time. Then our years at Hogwarts together. Anne, Amit, Natty, Poppy. And you. Despite the guilt, we were still happy. Smiling. Being children. And it felt so good, so hopeful. My phoenix rose again to save me... no, save you.” – they took Gaunt’s cold hand in their warm hands.

Here were the words Ominis had hoped to hear. And the gesture. They really fancied him. Cared for him. Or was he fooling himself again, overthinking the simplest gestures of kindness?

“To be honest with you – I felt something then. A gentle... Warmth. Of some kind. I saw and heard terrible, terrible things. They were showing me... And then this came. A light. As if I almost saw it. Not like usual shadows and silhouettes I experience. Something rather otherworldly it was.”

“That was the power of the spell, Ominis. You were the part of it. An important one.”

The wizard smiled and closed his eyes, as if wanting to feel that again.

“Don't you daydream, you still have got to talk to Anne about our business.” – they nudged him gently.

“I know. Just give me a second.”

He certainly felt better – the smile spoke for him.  

“Take your time. While I drink your-“

“No waaay!” – he moaned, opening his eyes. He wasn’t going to give his butterbeer away this easily.

“Ah, you're so precious when you make that face. Precious!”

The auror cackled, noticing the blush on their friend’s face. He still reacted to this phrase with a blush. After all these years… Alas, soon they won’t be able to see this precious blush of his. Or these pretty moles, which resembled a constellation. They won’t recognise him soon. The auror’s heart ached when these thoughts began to flood their mind.

“Don't call me that, were not sixth-years anymore!”

“Say for yourself, I still have a brain that of a sixth-year.”

The two chuckled.

“Me too. The wizard nodded. It's good we still think the same.”

“Yeah... It's good.”

“Is everything all right with you? You don't sound-“

The right questions. That is where you need to leave. Make up an excuse. And go. He doesn’t need to know anything.

For him they were fine. In their “almost next to best” state.

“I'm fine, just... just a long day. And it is, really, just morning. Bet they’ve sent a search party for me at work.”

“Yes, indeed. Then you're...leaving?”

“Well, yes, I'm afraid. Still have some work to do, you know. I think I was supposed to return an hour ago or so. But damn them all. Leander too. Bet he's going to bark at me again. That coward ass.”

“Then I-...” – the wizard sighed again. – “Be careful, please. And kick Prewett’s ass for me.”

“I will. Promise. You too take care of yourself”.

“I'll talk to Anne today. Wait for my owl later.”

“I always do. Good luck, Ominis.“

And with these words they were gone. The sound of their footsteps quickly faded away, leaving Ominis all alone with his thoughts. There were so many questions he wanted to ask, but he knew – they were bound to remain unanswered. The auror was good at dodging spells. They were even better at dodging unwanted questions.

“They’re up to something. I need to find out. Sebastian was like this just before he…”

A long day it was indeed. And it was going to be even longer with everything going on. At least this day wasn’t going to last forever.

[highmarc]

Happy. He was once. // Pt. 2

Requested by @bigtalesalad

Pt.2 of this.

Brought to you by zero motivation and extreme lack of brains.

There definitely will be two more parts no one asked for. I just want it to be completed.  

GN main character. Ominis has feelings towards MC. MC doesn’t see that, because they basically live in guilt.

TW: emetophobiacs look away, Azkaban Sebastian, guilt guilt everywhere, stupid author, stupid grammar, angsty stuff, unnecessary drama.  

TW2: English is not my first language, thus I'm not eloquent and my writing skills suck.

Word count: 1532

Picture - Anne Magill (her artwork is astonishing).

Ominis’s hands were shaking – the wizard could barely hold his trusted wand and walk. He was cold, indeed, but it was not the cold that made him shiver. It was fear. Immeasurable, intolerable, sinister, hanging as a huge black cloud above his head. Fear met his thoughts and turned them into a monstrous mess, made of the worst things he hated the most.

He was afraid of his friend, his actions, to be more precise. But he was also afraid for him. He had already lost him once. Was it worth – all these risks – to get him out of Azkaban now?

“What if I let him out, and he'll go down the only road he knows? What if he kills them? He will for sure. I need to talk to Anne about all this. I need to-”

All these questions fogged his mind, and the sound of echoing footsteps made him feel nauseous somehow.

“It’s the place, wretched, wretched prison.” – he thought – “I’m already going crazy. Poor Sebastian. He’s been here all these years, that’s why…”  

Sebastian's anger towards their friend was immeasurable - Ominis knew it well. Too well now, even. The hatred inside him grew like a tumor, slowly but surely poisoning Sallow's mind. No one knew it - and probably never would - but at some point poor Sebastian even decided that it was his “friend”, the blasted new fifth-year, to blame for Anne’s curse. How nice it was of them later – to blame Victor Rookwood for their own or their goblin friend’s crimes! If it wasn't for that stupid ancient magic...

The nauseous feeling made Ominis cover his mouth, then stop and lean against a cold and unpleasantly wet wall.

The auror rushed to their friend. They looked into his face – just to see how pale he was. They took his hand and felt his quickened pulse.

“Ominis, you’re not feeling well. We won’t be able to disapparate right now. I've tried to warn you-”

“I know.” - he sighed. – “But I wanted to see my... My... My friend.” The man’s breathing was shallow and quick.

“I understand that wish. That’s why I brought you here. Even though I’ll get an earful from my partner.”

Gaunt tried to smile, but he was unable to move even a muscle of his face. How weird it all suddenly felt. His friend took him by the hand, comforting him again – a common gesture between the two. It meant “well, I’m here for you, no need to worry”. But it wasn’t enough this time. The place (or rather its inhabitants) was slowly wearing Ominis down. Yet it was not he who attracted the wretched things. It was the auror. Living in their guilt day to day, having cowardly thoughts about death. When they saved someone’s life (and it happened frequently) they didn’t feel right about it, all they could think of was that very life, doomed to be spent in prison, which they couldn’t save.

“I see him as often as I can, but.. He never recognised me. It was... The first time he actually did. And I don’t know what to make out of it.”  

The air became somewhat heavier, and it was suddenly harder to find any words at all and utter them in a proper way. The guilt was following the two, like their own shadows. Ominis gulped a couple of times, battling nausea.

“It's the Azkaban. Playing tricks on us. On him. Sometimes I think the ministry is no better than these dark wizards they're torturing here. It can't be the only way of punishing them. They deserve a bit of mercy.”

The auror sighed, finally letting Ominis’s hand go. They continued walking slowly, without noticing the evil remarks coming from imprisoned witches and wizards. Crazy eyes of their were glowing with rage in the dark.

“Fockin’ daugs!” – someone yelled in a raspy low voice.

“It's a difficult question, Ominis. These imprisoned did not show mercy to those they tortured and killed.”

“I-I... Don't know what to say. It is difficult. Because I think about Sebastian, not someone else here.”

“I understand. I promise - I will get him out of there for you.” – the auror said firmly, as if finally making a decision. They knew a way or two how to make it all happen. One of them required determination. And now, as they felt, was the time. They’ll serve their own head on a platter for the hungry mongrels of the ministry. A sacrifice they should have made many years ago.

“I opt for lesser evil, to free a greater one. And I can only hope they won’t regret it.”   

“For me?” – the wizard asked, his voice shaking.

“Yes. He wants to crush my skull, don't forget about that.” – The auror cackled, even if it seemed out of place.

“As for Anne... I cannot say. We – or you – must talk to her about this business.”

Then they added in a soft voice.

“I still wonder why you two don't hate me as much as Sebastian does.”

Ominis’s eyes widened in disbelief. Why were they saying these things? To hurt him even more? Wasn’t it already enough? He cared for them beyond the way one cares for friends. His feelings opposed hate. It was… love? Of some kind. Care? Wasn’t it obvious to them? The way he tried to be closer, the way he smiled, the way he noticed every little detail about them, the presents he got them… Wasn’t it enough? Was he enough?  

“Why would I? Or Anne? You've always been there for me. And for her. And-”

“I'm not a good friend, Ominis.” – they stopped his ardent speech mid-sentence.

“A good auror, maybe, but a horrible friend indeed. I should have...”

Suddenly the auror saw their breaths and felt piercing cold. The cold was… mind and limb-numbing. Not a good sign in Azkaban. It meant only one thing – the demetors made they return. The auror grinded their teeth, drawing their wand in a moment.

“Stay behind me, Ominis.”

The shadowy slender creatures were gathering in front of them. They outstretched their greyish, slimy hands to them.

“What are those-“ – Gaunt wheezed, panicking.

“Dementors.”

Gaunt gulped. He knew - those wretched things are the reason why all the prisoners went slowly mad. They stole all the good memories from them. If they had any. Ominis breaths became quicker and shallow again. He felt how despair engulfed him. All these childhood memories returned – screams, oh, how they scream! Poor muggles didn’t stand a chance.

The wizard fell on his knees and cried: “MAKE THEM STOP! THESE CRIES!”

He relived those moments again – someone’s firm grip on his shoulder, an atrocious whisper: “Do it, my boy.”

“I won’t. Never. Ever. Let me go!” – he cried in vain. Then there came pain. In bouts. Agonising. Excruciating.  

“YOU ARE NOT WORTHY OF OUR NAME. A STAIN-“- the abominable voices cried .

The auror moved their wand fiercely and cried at the top of their lungs:

“Expecto patronum!”

They could never bear their friend being in pain. They wanted to see his smile. Beaming, gentle, shy, sincere. The way he smiled when he won another round of game of gobstones. The way he smiled when they drank butterbeer together, telling each other funny stories of their mischiefs. They saw their first hippogriff ride together. The other friends so dear to their heart. If only one could live in memories like these…  

The corridors were lit in a second with a wave of silver light – a silver lining for the two of friends it truly was. Even Ominis could feel a sudden breath of hope, something warm and bright, there, in his heart. No more cries and pain. It felt as if he was able to breathe again. And as if he was a boy again – a second-year, full of hopes, with Sebastian and Anne by his side. Playing tricks and never getting caught…

“Such powerful magic. “– Ominis thought – “Bringing all the good memories from the hidden corners of one’s heart.”

The silver bird furiously met the dementors, waiting for their prey, with a loud cry. Even Sebastian could hear it from his cell. He only smirked at it, thinking: “Too bad you didn’t get to kiss one of those…”

So the monsters were gone. The auror sighed and helped their friend to get back on his feet.

“I'm sorry, Ominis. I've completely forgot about those... Things. Are you all right?”

They looked into his face, worried. Ominis’s screams were still ringing in their head. And it made their heart ache. At least it was over.  

A faint smile escaped the man’s lips. He stared into the corridors with awe, like a child.

“That was... Amazing. I've never felt something like this. Was this a corporeal patronus?”

“Yes, Omi, and a late one. A narrow escape, almost.”  

“It cried like a bird. A huge bird.”

 “A phoenix.” – the auror sighed – “I'm so sorry. For hesitating.”  

“Hesitating?”

“I-I... I'll tell you later. Let's get out of here first.”

Still, Ominis’s hands were shaking. Yet it was not the fear that made him shiver. It was exhaustion. Merlin, how tired he was…

[highmarc]

CHESTity

No pun intended! English words can be this evil. Dogs bark and their bark makes bark grow on trees (thanks, doggies!).

Sebastian: Oi. Where have you been?

Ominis: *smiles from ear to ear*

Sebastian: Are you here with me, Ominis?

Ominis: Oh! Yes. Just thinking.

Sebastian: About what?

Ominis: MC showed me her chest.

Sebastian: SHE WHAT-

Ominis: Don’t be surprised. She said she trusted me enough to-

Sebastian: WAIT. If it is what I think… Are those.. you know… bouncy?

Ominis: SEBASTIAN! *blushes* Not THAT kind of chest. She showed me her chest, the one where she found a little snake recently. She said I could take care of-

Sebastian: NO WAAAY *runs off, embarrassed*

Ominis: *sighs* Ugh, Sebastian. Always a moonmind.

[highmarc]

The art of making compliments

Is hard, ikr.

Sebastian: Your brain must be really huge. *watches MC in awe*

MC: Aerm… *doesn’t really know what to make of it* Thank…you… I guess?

Ominis: *chuckles* Did you drink a stupidity potion?

Sebastian: What? I meant it as a compliment!

Ominis: The ones you got from the books sounded waay better.

Sebastian: They’re stupid. Hey, MC, would it be better, if I said “your eyes are like little birdcages – they captured me and now I can’t help but sing of love for you”?

MC: *blushes and cackles* Nooooo, please, stop, you’re embarrassing me! It really sounds stupid.

Ominis: *sighs* If only you understood the true nature of romance!

Sometime later

Ominis: Hey, MC. You’re… ehm… fine.

MC: Thank… you? I guess? *awkward staring in silence*

Ominis: And nice. It’s good to know you. *walks away quickly, embarrassed and at a loss for words*

Sebastian: *gasps* What was that?

[highmarc]

My genuine reaction to every spider in the game:

MC: There are more spiders on the way.

Sebastian: I’m ready. *that confident glow*

MC: I think there is… An acromantula of all things?

Sebastian: Pffft, we’ve dealt with these before. Once, I guess? *nervous stare*

Ominis: I’m so out of here, goodbye.  

[highmarc]

Sebastian: Hey, MC.

MC: Hello, Sebastian. Your timing is perfect. Just as always.

Sebastian: Ahhh, anything for my favourite MC! Even the time itself.

MC: Points for you then! *chuckles* By the way – did you happen to see Ominis today? I was to meet him this morning. But he never showed up.

Sebastian: Not really – when I woke up the room was perfectly empty. Maybe he got lost somewhere, you know him.

MC: He didn’t get lost in an ancient catacomb back then. While I did. So I’m starting to get worried.

Sebastian: Don’t worry, he’ll eventually show up.

MC: Sebastian! It's not a cat or a puffskein we're talking about...

Sebastian: Ha! He'd make one grumpy puffskein, I bet. I'd name him Ominous Coat.

MC: *annoyed sigh*

Later this evening the two friends receive an owl. They quickly meet on their way to the Hospital Wing.

MC: I knew something was wrong.

Sebastian: Well, I think I owe you a butterbeer now. Who could have foreseen this - Ominis Gaunt, hit by a falling Christmas tree? *chuckles* 

MC: Nothing funny about that, Sebastian! *sighs* Poor Ominis…

Sebastian: Ah, don’t be so grim. I fell into the Black Lake once – yet here I am-

MC: Fishing for hugs and comfort?

Sebastian: Precisely! 

[highmarc]

I'm so sorry, but no posting day it is. My stomach is being a total arse again, can't even think straight.

Love you all, hope you understand 💙

[highmarc]

MC leaves them a cute something in their textbook when they're sad.

Don't forget to cheer up your friends/close ones from time to time!

Sebastian.

A note, perhaps.

“Hey there, cheer up! The sun is shining, the O.W.L.S no more. Let's breathe out and visit Hogsmeade - we deserve a barrelful of butterbeer after this ordeal of ours. P.S. You still owe me a chocolate frog!”.

Ominis.

A spring flower, not his favourite one, but it makes him smile, and he knows that there's someone who cares about him and his wellbeing. He'll probably save the flower and cherish it as a pleasant memory of his dear friend.

Poppy.

An origami dragon it is. Poppy loves being around animals and creatures of all kinds, and she'll probably like this little cute fella too. She'll even give it a name. It will make her smile every time whenever she feels sad.

Natty.

A handmade ornamented bookmark. The ornament will remind her of her home, and she'll cherish it. She'll thank MC for being so attentive and caring. They'll probably take a walk somewhere outside the castle later.

Amit.

A chocolate frog. Chocolate is pure magic itself, so it will cheer up Amit at once for sure. It will remind him of a star somehow. And a star fetched from the very skies by his dearest friend is a precious gift. (I’m sure Amit will name a constellation after his friend someday, lol).

[highmarc]

Mischief managed

I really like mischievous Ominis.

MC: So, I need to turn right here and then-

*bumps into Sebastian and hits their head*

Sebastian: Ouch! Watch it!

MC: Sebastian? What are you doing here?

Sebastian: I could ask you the very same question, really.

MC: But we were to meet in the tomb, not outside.

Sebastian: What are you talking about?

MC: Well, you sent me this. *shows him a letter*

Sebastian: I did not. Besides, I’ve got the same letter myself. *shows his letter to MC*

MC: Well, this is odd.

Sebastian: You don’t say.

MC: Is this some kind of trap?

Sebastian: Only one way to find out.

MC: Do you really think there will be these notes from that very slytherin student?

Sebastian: I don’t know, but it’s worth trying. You know how I love secrets like this.

MC: Unfortunately – I do.

*they finally enter the tomb and spent a thousand years with all those puzzles, but at last they pass every trial and find the final chamber with a very important looking chest*

Sebastian: You go open it.

MC: Why me?

Sebastian: You solved most of the puzzles. The honor is all yours.

MC: *sigh* Very well then. But stay alert. Just in case.

*opens the chest and finds… two chocolate bars inside with a note*

I hope you like these. No dark arts for you today. Only dark chocolate.

It’s good for your brains, by the way.

All yours,

O.G.

Sebastian: Oh, I knew it!

MC: So, there is a note from a slytherin student after all… He wasn’t lying about this. *chuckles*

Sebastian: He thinks it’s funny! I’ll show him what real fun is!

[highmarc]

Happy. He was once.

I'm trying to write something longer than dialogues. Failing again, haw-haw. 🤡 Vague crazy stuff it is.

TW: AZKABAN STUFF AHEAD, BEWARE! angsty clown stuff; grim, depressing atmosphere; mentions of blood and death;

BET GREMER (you've been warned).

Word count: 1783-ish.

Years spent in Azkaban haven't been kind to Sebastian. His friends regret their decision. Will they make things right or...

He couldn't understand what time of the day it was. His cell was always dark. Only rare dim rays of light touched his pale face sometimes, waked sudden hope in him, then left.

“They always leave me,” – he thought.

“All of them. My parents first, then Anne and Ominis. They have no need in such person as I am. That's why I ended up here. Or was it something else? I cannot quite remember.”

The prisoner counted his days at first – a totally absurd idea, as he soon found out. Every single day spent here added up to another day, so these days became one never-ending day in the end. Was that really a day or was that night? He couldn't say and dared not to.

In such places dates and time mean very little.

Sebastian's mind was always wandering somewhere, busy with delirious ideas, hanging onto the little pieces of memories left. The was no laughter, no smiling faces, no sign of his favourite twin, no sign of his dearest friend. There was nothing but hatred that fueled his rage. Oh, how he hated this foul “friend" of his and their goblin comrades! He would kill them for sure, if he could. If only he had another chance, if only he wouldn't have trusted them from the very beginning.

One could easily say that all these years Sebastian had been hanging on what-ifs of all sorts, which calmed his anger, preventing him from going completely insane. He fancied such ideas, daydreaming. Here he was dancing with Anne, happy to hear his bloody sacrifice had worked, here he was sitting by Ominis’s side, happy to attend school again, even though it meant being in detention again, and here he was, towering over their dead body, lifeless, cold. How triumphant he felt!

It was easy to daydream at first. But each time it became harder and harder to dream about being... happy? What did happiness mean to him anyway? It was just a word. Just like any other. A set of letters combined together in a special way. Happy. He was once. At least he thought so.

The dark cold walls took the happiness away. Little by little. Day by day. And those blasted creatures - always hungry, always there to torture him. Every now and then he really wished he'd died.

Today he was lucky, though. After all those years – finally a visitor. How was this even possible? Do these mongrels from ministry even allow visitors to someone like him? It all was blood thrilling, he could not believe it, and laughed maniacally at the news, shivering as if he was feverish. A gleam of hope then could be seen in his dark and bloodshot eyes. But only for a fleeting moment.

The waiting was tantalising. He moved from one corner of his cell to another, anxiously, counting every step.

It would be Ominis, for sure. Anne? Maybe. Not likely, though.

What if it would be... You-know-who, Sebastian? Would you take the chance? Grab them by the hand, then squeeze their neck tight with your trembling hands? Are you strong enough for such a feat? A vicious and vindictive man you are. Have always been.

You had not found strength to forgive them. You never would. Even if it rent your bleeding heart one million times over and over. You would never find strength in your own self. They, on the other hand, gave you strength, they fuel your rage, they make you last another day more. What would become then, you-know-when, Sebastian?

There would be nothing, perhaps. Perhaps there would be a completely new life – with Anne and Ominis in it.

He smiled to this thought. Then he heard someone approach. Asynchronous footsteps. There were two of them.

“Of course! How would they allow someone in without an accompanying auror? Silly, silly Sebastian! High hopes you have in places low, like this.”

The echoes of the footsteps died off.

Someone was standing in front of him. A familiar figure – taller this time – stared blankly at the cell door with his glassy eyes. But dared not to approach.

“It's been... So long. Hello, Sebastian,” – a soft voice spoke gently.

Sebastian leaned towards the door, staggering, as if he was drunk. The legs betrayed him – they were so weak, so unsteady.

“Omi… “– he felt a lump in his throat, but still was able to finish. – “Ominis!”

Gaunt approached slowly and prudently. He looked so fine in his fashionable suit, one could say for sure. He was not the Ominis Sebastian remembered. In front of him stood a completely different person – a grown up man, gentleman, more likely, refined, well-bred. Even his sour countenance made him handsome somehow. Compared to him – in those worn rags, unshaved, barely washed in months – Sebastian felt rather strange.

“I'm glad you’re still… happy to see me. Friend,” – Ominis spoke as he approached the door.

The prisoner panted, unable to understand what were his feelings about this meeting.

“I never expected... Someone to come.”

“I couldn't just leave you here all alone. You're still my friend. And I'll always find my ways to see you. Now it's even easier, for,”– he stopped mid-sentence, as though carefully weighing his words.

“I've made some useful acquaintances. Amongst the ministry people.”

The prisoner punched the door with his fist angrily. Ominis startled at the sound, blinking quickly in fear.

“I hate these dogs. Hate every single one of them! How could y-“

“I know, Sebastian. But I didn't have a choice.”– Ominis stated firmly.

“Weren't you always the one talking about ‘always having a choice’?” – Sallow spat bitterly.

“I had a choice once. And now, would you look at me! I'm a dead man. A shadow. A nobody, who's going to rot here. And you will lead your normal life, walking in fine suits, building the home of your dreams. Why do you need to know some of those ministry dogs? Just to go here and give me nothing?”

“I gave you everything. But you never accepted it. I cared for you and I still care. I understand how trying this all is. But I'm and a friend of mine are working on a way to get you out of here. Anne has agreed to help.”

Hearing the name of his beloved sister, he could feel tears streaming down his cheeks. The pictures of Anne, being in pain and crying, flashed before his eyes.

“My poor Anne. I... how...”

Sebastian began muttering something in his usual frenzy.

Ominis could only sigh at such a sorry state his friend was in. He expected the meeting to be less unnerving, less spiteful. But he knew for sure that such places change people beyond recognition. It would take a lifetime of healing to bring his – their – Sebastian back. He dared not mention his other friend here. An auror among all things. Both of them felt guilty for bringing Sebastian here, for turning him in in the first place. But it felt right back then, when they had made a decision. They did have a choice. And now where were they? Trying to save the shadow of their friend.

One has always got a choice. Ominis clenched his fists and bit the cheek on the inside.

“I'm so sorry, Sebastian. This all should have never happened.”

Then another figure stepped out of the shadows. It hugged Ominis, comforting him in an almost motherly way.

“You shouldn't have,”– he interjected.

The face. Sebastian knew their face. He saw it in every dream of his. He was smashing it over and over, bathing in their blood. He killed them one thousand times in his countless daydreams. It were them. They turned him in. The rat he once in knew as his friend. But they chose the company of filthy goblins and their lies! Of course, not in a thousand years he would believe that a wizard cursed his sister. It was a goblin. No lie of their could change the fact.

“You!” – Sallow cried spluttering in rage.

“You filthy dog!”

He outstretched his hand in between the bars, wanting to grasp the auror.

His face was all red and swollen from anger. There was nothing he wished, but the death of them.

They quickly moved and stood in front of Ominis, as if wanting to protect him.

Sebastian only laughed at the gesture, with a laugh as vile as it could be.

“It should be other way around, don't you think? You – in this very cell. Me – there, wearing that uniform, perhaps. Spending my time with my family.”

“But that's the future you've stolen from me. A dirty little thief you are. Shame someone calls you a hero. Shame I once trusted you and almost... Ah, never mind! Such narrow-minded person as you are would never understand what a human feels sometimes.”

“Sebastian, don't,” – Gaunt started only to be interrupted.

“Oh, no! Let me hurt their feelings a little. I've been waiting for this very moment!”

The auror smirked at the sight. They seemed to be eerily calm about the situation.

“I've heard worse, Sebastian. From you, too. I' ve never been proud about us turning you in. But back then it seemed a right thing to do. You killed a man. Broke a law.”

“That's news!” – the prisoner laughed maniacally again.

“We were just kids. Just like you. What were we supposed to do? To hide such a secret and happily move on? As if nothing happened?”

“With friends like this... Do I even have to continue?”

“No, you really don't. You'll never forgive me. And I'll never forgive you. For taking an innocent life away, even if it was you crazy uncle's life. You don't know how hard it is to save someone else's life, how hard it is to give life to someone. So don't you dare reproach me. It could have been someone else instead of you. And instead of Solomon there could have been Anne. Think about it. You've got plenty of time now.”

“You fucking cow, come here, I'm going to crash this pretty little skull of yours!”

Ominis was quiet all the time. It was his doom – to listen and to judge. And here, perhaps, neither of his friends was right. They were as two sides of scales, always wanting to overweigh one another. Never in an accord. And he could do absolutely nothing about it.

He took his auror friend by the hand. They understood his gesture. It was their time to leave.

“I'm beginning to have second thoughts about our plan.” – they said – “But if you want this man out of here – so be it. I won't say a word this time.”

“Get the hell away from here, useless dog. My life is mine, you can't and won't control it!” – Sebastian kicked the door angrily.

It all made Ominis heart sink. How hopeless and drained he felt. If only there was a way to turn everything back. But sometimes one doesn't really have a choice.

[highmarc]

Is it just me or...

Was this written by a left-handed person? Was Noctua left-handed? Or is it just me, a left-handed person, wanting more left-handed witches and wizards in the HP universe...

[highmarc]

Muggle-born MC plays violin

Sebastian: So, you play it without magic?

MC: Yes. You would be surprised, but there are even big orchestras playing without magic.

Sebastian: Sounds reaaally strange, if you ask me. Some things are more convenient when used with magic.

Ominis: Not everything is better with magic, Sebastian.

Sebastian: Argh. Here we go again.

Ominis: I would love to listen to a non-magical orchestra, MC. To find out whether there’s much difference.

Sebastian: Pfft. Of course you would.

MC: *sighs and bonks Sebastian with violin bow*

Sebastian: What did I do to deserve this!

Ominis: Oh me, oh my! Such VIOLInce.

[highmarc]

MC and Sebastian are reading in the Undercroft, preparing for their upcoming transfiguration class. Ominis comes in – all jolly about his recent visit to Hogsmeade.

Ominis: Hey, Sebastian. Buried in books up to your neck again? Should have gone to Gladrags with me. I’ve got myself three pairs of breeches. Half their price. What a bargain!

MC: *doesn’t really know what to say* I-I… Good to… know?

Sebastian: *can’t stop laughing*

MC: I-I… Ugh! Of course you’re here together!

[highmarc]

MC is officially an auror // Extra.

I didn't plan to post it, for it is not well-written and not grandiloquent enough, but here it is :D Warning: stoopid gramer here and there.

They stood alone. Their gaze down, as if they were eyeing countless dead leaves scattered at their feet. They did not know what to say - they looked a lot like a mere child, who broke a vase and didn’t know whether to admit to their crime or not. No parent was present, yet a cold stone, which faced them, seemed even more judging.  

A sigh. And a single step forward.

"Hello, professor Fig, Miriam." – they said quietly, looking at the tombstones.

"I wish I-" - they suddenly felt a huge lump in their throat. Not a single word came out.

The happy voices and laughter were still ringing in their head, and it made everything worse. They had tears in their eyes. Unwanted, uncalled for. It was still painful. Even after five long years.

They kneeled before the tombstones and drew their wand. A simple motion – and a myriad of white flowers covered the tombstones. They resembled stars. And gentle tears.

"I wanted to thank you. For everything. For trusting in me. For being there for me. And I wanted to tell you – I’m an auror. I’ve passed the training and… If it wasn’t for you, I wouldn’t be here right now. I just hope I can save as many lives as possible".

"I don’t want anyone else to die… Because of me".

[highmarc]

MC and Sebastian end up in St.Mungo’s after one of their adventures

MC would 1000% sacrifice their life in order to protect their friend, of this I'm sure.

Sixth year of Hogwarts here.

Ominis: And how on earth did you end up spliching your leg?

Sebastian: We had to apparate.

Ominis: Oh, that’s news, Sebastian. Usual and proper apparition doesn’t do this to you.

Sebastian: We had to escape quickly. There was this dark wizard. He almost got us with a killing curse. If it wasn’t for MC, I’d be dead.

Ominis: You’d be for sure.  *looks at the MC who is still unconscious* For the sake of MC’s – if not for mine and Anne’s – stop partaking in these adventures. I’ve probably told this to you one million times before, but this is serious.

Sebastian: I… Understand.

Ominis: You do? Just like that time? *scoffs*

Sebastian: Stop reminding me about that time. You just add up to my guilt. It is so uneasy. It rends my heart, all this guilt. What if-... I can’t bear the thought of them dying because of me.

Ominis: Sebastian. *sighs* They will be all right. They just… need some time to rest.

Sebastian: I hope so.

Ominis: You two are such fools, I can’t believe it…  *shakes his head*

Sebastian: We owe you a completely new nervous system, I guess.

Ominis: You in particular.

[highmarc]

Big family – big problems with (f)MC. // Pt.2

Part two. Spontaneous. Shall I write one with (m) MC and girls? I think I shall.

Amit

4 kids – two boys, two girls. Amit, as I think, would often take his whole family on his work and research trips. He would constantly educate the little ones. And they would be as quick-witted as their father. Aaand mother, of course. Sibling rivalry in the Thakkar family would be… epic to say the least.

Breakfast time. MC is sitting at the table and staring at her children and husband… well… reading?

MC: For Merlin’s love. How many times do I have to repeat myself? Never. I said. NEVER read books while eating. It’s not healthy.

Amit: But my love, they were born with books in their hands!

Second son (the youngest of all): Really? What was my book about, mom?

MC: *in total shock*

Second daughter: Did you fall off a cart full of stupid? It would be painful-

First son: *sighs and drops the book angrily* There goes my appetite, thank you very much!

First daughter (was really born first): What, can’t decide who is dumber again? *finally pays attention to siblings*

Amit: When I said that you were born with books in your little hands, I meant you all were really smart from the very first moments, children. No need to start quarrels.

First daughter: You know, dad, there is that theory which says that the eldest child inherits the most intelligence from their parents. The rest of the children in the family are just left with mediocre minds.

First son: You don’t say. With an “E” at transfiguration.

Second daughter: And you can’t even cast flipendo properly.

MC: I don’t know who’s the smartest here, but little by little your mother here is becoming crazier and crazier…

Amit: Big family – big problems, they say.

MC: When is you next stargazing session? Can’t wait for it…

Garreth.

As a typical Weasley, he would have an all-boy team of kids.

Second son: Yuck. Mom. Something smells awful in the bathroom.

MC: Why didn’t you check what's in there yourself?

Second son: I... I'm...

MC: Well, all right. But you must know that you're old enough to deal with something like this yourself.

Second son: I, yes.

MC: *Opens the door and sees the mess and her youngest child playing with practically every potion ingredient in the house. *

MC: Merlin's beard…

Third son: Momma! I'm making you a beutipetrication potion. You'll be the prettiest lady in the country and you’ll be the queen!

Second son: *Chuckles, covering his nose*

MC: Oh, goodness. Who told you that?

Third son: Elder brother. He said you would love this. Do you like it? It's not ready yet, but still.

MC: I... I'm afraid this is not how potions work, sweetie.

Garreth: *just walks in* What is that foul smell? I-

Oh.

MC: *Stares intensively*

Garreth: Here's a real rival to dung bomb.

MC: Garreth.

Garreth: What?

MC: This is your influence.

Garreth: More like my genes.

MC: Now clear that mess up, will you. Someone is going to get an earful about this.

Garreth: Oh, his first howler. How exciting.

[highmarc]

When MC has a crush on their professor. // Pt.1

I think we all had those innocent crushes on teachers/professors. Mine was my English teacher :D

Sebastian

Sebastian: I think you’re not paying attention.

MC: *staring at professor Garlick intensively*

Sebastian: Hello? MC?

MC: *is startled* Ah! What is it?

Sebastian: *sighs* If only I were the one you’re staring at like this…

MC: I wasn’t staring!

Sebastian: You were. Shame on you. *smirks*

MC: I was just thinking!

Sebastian: Oh, these plants do make you think hard, don’t they? I can almost hear the sound-

MC: Sebastian!

Sebastian: Whaat?

MC: You’re unbearable. *blushes*

Sebastian: And charming. Even more than professor Garlick herself.

Ominis

Ominis: Hey, MC, could you pass me a ginger root?

MC: *is, of course, staring at professor Sharp*

Ominis: MC, are you here?

MC: *accidentally drops something into their potion and the cauldron, well, explodes*

Prof. Sharp: That will be 10 points from your house. *walks up to MC*

MC: I-I-

Prof. Sharp: Dismissed. And clean this mess up.

Ominis:I thought it was Garreth. What’s gotten into you?

MC: I was just-

Ominis: Somewhere else? Dreaming about this old man? *scoffs*

MC: Ominis!

Ominis: What? Just don’t forget to invite me to your wedding.

MC: You’re unbearable. *sighs*

Ominis: I’m as half as unbearable as professor Sharp is. Think about it.