#╰ connection // salazar & helga. ╯

[siriuslyobsessedwithfiction]

Horcruxes as Seven Deadly Sins

This has been jabbing at my brain for a while, I need to get it out. Idk if someone has already done this.

This will only mention Christian, because I don't think I have enough knowledge about Greek, Roman or any other interpretation of the seven deadly sins.

So, Tom Riddle created seven horcruxes. (actually eight)

It is no secret that Tom Riddle was obsessed with power, because he never had anything of value and thought power was the remedy for his misfortune and a very depressing life. Splitting one's soul is already a sin itself because it's done by murdering someone. Tom Riddle Jr. (I think it's hilarious to call him that so what) created seven of them during various stages of his life. Without further ado, let's review his misdeeds chronologically.

The Diary

The first horcrux he created was by murdering Myrtle, an innocent Muggleborn Ravenclaw student. The basilisk did Tom's bidding. The diary becoming a horcrux is very interesing considering the timeline. He was in fifth or sixth year. By that time he figured out he was the descendant of Salazar Slytherin, but he did not yet know of the tragedy that brought him to life. He thought he was doing noble work by getting rid of the muggleborns and finishing what Salazar intended from the start. Years later, diary Tom talks to Harry about abandoning his filthy muggle father's name, but had Tom already visited his uncle by that time and found out about his parents? Or did Tom murder Myrtle earlier and then was told about his heritage as a diary by the actual corporal Tom? Because when he visited his uncle and found out his father was a muggle, he knocked his uncle out, went to the Riddle manor and killed his father and his grandparents. And stole the Gaunt family ring, which would also become a horcrux. Officially, the diary is considered the first horcrux, so we'll follow that. I will assign the diary the sin of wrath. Tom was angry at his muggle father, weak mother, deranged relatives who destroyed an ancient house and his childhood. However, he still holds his heritage in somewhat of a high regard because, frankly, what else he has left. He took out his wrath on regular bystanders who had no effect on his life. Teenage boy bottles his anger in his diary and holds petty grudges.

Marvolo Gaunt's Ring

Created after Tom spoke to Slughorn about splitting a soul in more than two pieces. A gaudy ring, not even a famous artifact, the last family heirloom of Gaunts. Even though his mother's side of the family was no less pathetic than his father's, Tom did not forsake it completely. He still hid his connection to them, but at least they provided him with the gift of parseltongue and magical talent. I think he was silently...grateful, for the lack of a better term. He felt no sympathy towards his mother even before he found out who she was, but he was grateful for her the way you can be grateful for someone who brought you to this world and gave you gift of magic and did nothing else for you. The ring represents the sin of pride because Tom was not honoring his family, he clung to his terrible ancestry. The word pride is not used as a bad thing in the modern context as much. You can be proud of something. That's not a bad thing, right? Well, in this case, it is. Tom was not ashamed of the things Gaunts did, he was ashamed how they ended up. If he was met with Gaunts who looked and lived like Malfoys but where ten times worse, he wouldn't hide his connection to them and would display his pride. Why else would he keep the ring if he didn't plan to use it. Sentimental reasons.

Salazar Slytherin's Locket

Envy. Tom tracked down the current owner of the locket, killed her and stole it from her. He was envious in a way of Hepzibah Smith, who lived luxuriously, was in touch of her pureblood ancestry, a descendant of Helga Hufflepuff. Meanwhile, Tom, who, in his opinion, should've been born with the same privileges, had to scramble for scraps his whole life and smile politely at others and be of service, instead of the other way around. A prince mistaken for a beggar, forced to live his life, found the crown jewel of his. And some old lady displayed it like it was her own. Technically, it was.

Rowena Ravenclaw's Diadem

Now, what business did Tommy have messing around with other founders' sacred artifacts? He had acquired "his own" ones. He could stop at three horcruxes. Surely, there were risks, consequences of such extreme magic, just take the locket and leave the cup, don't even bother with the lost diadem...Greed. He sniffed around and inquired about it while he was still in Hogwarts, charmed the Grey Lady Helena Ravenclaw to find out its whereabouts and went to bloody Albania to get it.

Why shouldn't Tom take the diadem and the cup as well? Why shouldn't he take other heirlooms and make it his? He's the greatest wizard of all time in the making. What can possibly rival his power? You get the point.

Helga Hufflepuff's Cup

Gluttony. Are we even surprised at this point? He went through all that trouble to get other items, the cup was literally lying right there next to the locket at Hepzibah Smith's house. I'm getting tired, I'm sorry.

Nagini

Sloth. The snake was already unnaturally loyal to him, he was actually acting affectionate towards it. Making a horcrux out of a living being was an unheard concept, but he'd done much weirder things already. The parselmouth and a snake, very original. His easiest and laziest horcrux, one more testament to his power and "pure" blood.

Harry Potter

Lust. Harry was a horcrux he never meant to create. On a fateful night when Voldemort nearly died of his own spell (the first time around), a small piece of his soul attached itself to the only living thing it could find, a baby. All of it, really, began with lust. An ambition gone bitter. Lust for power, immortality, desire to be remembered and stand out. Driven to insanity, orchestrated his own downfall. The lust for power, the only thing he could approximate with love.

[lionmythflower]

Evan scoffs. "'Does he know?' he asks. Yes him and the whole fucking school knows."

Regulus' eyes go wide and he opens his mouth to respond but is cut off by Evan continuing his rambling.

"No, he doesn't fucking know are you crazy? I didn't even know for merlin's sake! And gods help you if they find out, because it's not gonna be me helping. Even Pandora didn't think twice about it until the quidditch match last fall! Jesus Christ, you are an IDIOT. An absolute fucking idiot. I hope you know that. Him. HIM, OF ALL PEOPLE. Salazar, Rowena, Helga and Godric are rolling in their graves laughing at you. I guarantee this is not what McGonagall meant when she said we need more 'House Unity' goddamn. And gosh let's not even mention-" Evan continues ranting.

Regulus' head was spinning. 6 years of knowing Evan Rosier and he still hasnt gotten used to his rambling. At least not these kind of ramblings. He could deal with ones about school, or Evan's lastest hyper fixation, or the random things that Evan would think of and just go with. Those he could deal with. Evan's angry rambles made his mind work overtime. He somehow managed to talk even faster when he was angry.

At least with Regulus. With anyone else he didn't let himself get too angry. Regulus didn't care how much Evan rambled though. He knows that he doesn't mean it. In reality Evan is just trying to work it all out in his mind, trying to connect the dots and fit the pieces together. Regulus is fine with it. In fact he encourages it. With anyone else Evan either stops himself mid rambled or gets interrupted. With Regulus, Evan doesn't stop himself, and Regulus doesn't interrupt. When he does stop, he looks over to Regulus and Regulus gives some input.

Talking isn't one of the things regulus is best at. He either doesn't think before he speaks or things too long about what he's going to say and then it's too late. With Evan that's not a problem. Regulus can blurt out the most nonsensical thing that comes to mind without having to think about whether Evan will find it weird. Regulus can take as long as he needs to think about the answer to something without worrying that Evan will get annoyed with having to wait.

Regulus looks up and realizes that Evan has stopped talking. "You done yelling at me now?" Regulus says with a slight smile.

Evan sighs and lays down so that his head is in Regulus' lap and he's starring up at Regulus.

"yeah," he mumbles. This is normal how most of his rambles end; with Evan finally having run out of things to say and going silent.

Evan looks like he's about to say something and then hesitates.

"What?" Regulus asks.

Evan starts tapping his finger tips on his stomach nervously.

"Was that too much? Sorry I didn't mind to react badly I'm not mad at you and your not an idiot, I'm just trying to process this for a minute and I didn't know what to say, sorry." And this is normally how Evan's 'angry' rants end. No matter how many times Regulus tells him that it's fine.

Regulus smiles and reaches over to put his hand over the one anxiously tapping on Evan's stomach. "It's not too much, your fine," Regulus promises.

Evan nods slowly. "Okay." He whispers.

Regulus nods too. "Okay."

Evan sits up and fidgets a bit before asking, "Can I hug you?"

Regulus almost laughs. Instead he just smiled again and hugs Evan gently. The other boy takes a few seconds before relaxing into the hug and hugging back.

Evan has never been one for physical affection. His parents never gave him any and he grew to not be a physical person. Which also led to him being severely touch starved. He hadn't even realized it until a few of this very very close friends expressed physical affection towards him. And he realized he was ok with it as long as it was someone he completely trusted. That didn't mean he wasn't still hesitant and slightly tense about it.

Regulus hadn't ever got any form of affection from his parents either. But he was fine with physical affection. Holding Pandora's hand, hugging Dorcas, resting his head on Peter's shoulder, leaning against Remus, coming up behind Barty and burrowing into his side, cuddling with Lily, being held against Emmeline, playing with Mary's curls when he got bored and more. He was able to tell that Evan didn't like physical affection too much. He was fine with that and respected it. The first time Regulus hugged Evan, he was having a panic attack, and Regulus panicked and had hugged Evan. Evan had tensed so badly at first that Regulus almost let go. But right before he made the decision to let go of Evan, the boy hugged him back and cried into Regulus' shoulder.

Another thing that Regulus was constantly had to reassure Evan about was that he didn't have to ask if he wanted a hug.

Evan let out a quiet sigh as he burrowed into Regulus' chest. Regulus pulled him closer. He would remind Evan as many times it took for him to accept it. To accept that he was loved and accepted and welcome. Regulus didn't care how many times he had to tell Evan.

Evan's breath eventually slowed to an even pace , that signified that he was asleep. Regulus stared at the boy hugging him for a while before he slowly drifted asleep.

[coolbeans32]

Echoes of Destiny: The Serpent and the Phoenix

PAIRING: Tom Riddle x F!Reader (OC)

SYNOPSIS: Back at Grimmauld, tensions rise with the presence of a Horcrux, as Harry, Hermione, and Genevieve figure out the rest of the objects that Tom turned into vessels of his soul. Ron, feeling the rouse of the darkness of the Slytherin locket, starts an argument leading toward a scuffle between him and his best mate. Ron leaves to head back home, leaving Hermione and Harry devastated. Genevieve comforts the two as she figures out the next location to search for a Horcrux and goes on a mission to enter Bellatrix Black's vault to successfully find and retrieve Helga Hufflepuff's Cup.

WARNINGS: This chapter contains scenes of dark magical objects, arguments, scuffles between friends, trauma, loss, guilt, and the use of an Unforgivable curse (Imperius Curse).

WORD COUNT: 5.6k

Previous Part| Next Part

Chapter Eleven

Hufflepuff's Cup

Back at the library, Genevieve had placed the locket in a safe place, knowing how dangerous and dark the object was. Now the trio and Genevieve were investigating the next set of horcruxes they needed to find. It was obvious that the Diary and Locket were the first two, and Genevieve had suspicions of Tom’s ring to be another horcrux due to his connection with them. The other four were going to be the mystery to solve.

"We need to think like Tom," Genevieve murmured, her eyes scanning the pages of an old grimoire. "He wouldn't choose just any object for his Horcruxes. They must hold significance to him. Aside from his lineage, I know Hogwarts is very important to him.”

Harry, his mind racing, asked, "But what kind of objects would he choose to represent Hogwarts? It’s not like there is much aside from the castle."

Hermione's eyes lit up as she rifled through a stack of books. "Wait, the Founders of Hogwarts…They each had treasured possessions, didn't they?"

Genevieve's gaze sharpened as she considered Hermione's words. "Yes, you're right. Salazar Slytherin's locket was already one of them, and represented Tom and his family. Aren’t there others as well?"

Hermione reached for a large tome titled "A History of Hogwarts" and began flipping through its pages. "According to this, Godric Gryffindor had a sword, which Harry fought the Basilisk with, Helga Hufflepuff possessed a cup, and Rowena Ravenclaw always wore a diadem."

Harry's eyes widened with realization. "So, aside from Slytherin's locket, the other trinkets most likely became Horcruxes."

Genevieve nodded in agreement. "Exactly. And given that Gryffindor's sword only presents itself to someone with courage and in need of the sword, it's unlikely to be a Horcrux. That leaves us with Hufflepuff's cup and Ravenclaw's diadem."

Hermione's fingers traced the words on the page as she read aloud, "Helga Hufflepuff's cup was a treasured artifact passed down through generations of her descendants. And Rowena Ravenclaw's diadem was said to enhance the wisdom of its wearer."

Genevieve's eyes gleamed with determination. "Then those must be our next targets. We need to find Hufflepuff's cup and Ravenclaw's diadem before Voldemort does."

Harry clenched his fists, his resolve hardening. "Agreed. We'll search every corner of the wizarding world if we have to. We can't let Voldemort succeed. Then the three heard something and in an instant, saw the lights go out, making the three jump only for Ron to come with the Deluminator.

"One problem, we don’t know where the trinkets are." Ron said and he put the lights back on. "Yeah, I'm still here. But you three carry on. Don't let me spoil the fun." Ron told them and Harry gritted his teeth. Genevieve took a step back to observe what was going to happen and noticed that he had the locket around his neck. She asked herself, How the hell did he get it? I locked it in the desk drawer.

"What's wrong?" Harry asked him.

"Wrong? Nothing's wrong. Not according to you, anyway." Ron told him.

"Look, if you've got something to say, don't be shy. Spit it out." Harry  said to him, irritated.

"Alright, I'll spit it out. But don't expect me to be grateful just because there's another damn thing we've gotta find." Ron said and Harry narrowed his eyes at him.

"I thought you knew what you signed up for, Ron." 

"Yeah. I thought I did too." Ron told them. 

"Well then Ron, I'm sorry but I don't quite understand what you're trying to say to me." Harry exclaimed sarcastically to him. "What part of this isn't living up to your expectations? Did you think we were gonna be staying in a five star hotel? Finding a Horcrux every other day? Thought you'd be back with your mum by Christmas?"

"I just thought, after all this time we would've achieved something. I thought you knew what you were doing." Ron mouthed to Harry, and Hermione exchanged looks to Genevieve with worry. "I thought Dumbledore told you something worthwhile. I thought you had a plan."

"I told you everything Dumbledore told me. And in case you haven't noticed we found a Horcrux already." Harry told him with anger.

"Yeah, and we're as close to getting rid of it as we are finding the rest of them." Ron retorted back to me.

Genevieve went towards Ron. "Ron. take the Horcrux off. You have no idea what you’re saying. Just give it to me.” She said with her hand stretched toward him. 

"Do you know why I listen to that radio? To make sure I don't hear my mum’s name, or my dad’s or Fred or George or Ginny." Ron said frustrated.

"What, you don't think I'm not listening? You think I don't know how it feels?!" Harry shouted at him in frustration.

"No, you don't know how it feels! Your parents are dead! You have no family!" Ron shouted at Harry, like a slap to a face. He felt extremely angry and dived and started hitting Ron. A brawl had started. Genevieve rolled her eyes at the immaturity of the two boys. Merlin help me if I have to deal with this shit all over again, she thought of as she recalled how Tom and Malfoy would do the exact same thing back in her time. 

"Stop. Stop!" Hermione shouted at them.

"Fine, then go!" Harry shouted at him with anger. "Go, then!" 

"Fine." Ron said and took off the locket as he grabbed his bag and scowled at Hermione and Harry.

"Ron." Hermione said to him.

"And you?" Ron asked Hermione. "Are you coming or are you staying?"Hermione just stood still, conflicted.

 "Fine I get it. I’ve seen the both of you recently.” Ron jabbed.

"It's not like that." Hermione  said to him. "Ron you're angry and I get it but you have to calm down." Hermione said but Ron walked out, and Hermione moved to reach him. Hermione ran out for him when they heard a WHOOSH. Ron was gone.

In the quiet solitude of Grimmauld Place, Genevieve found Hermione sitting alone in the dimly lit library, her eyes red-rimmed from tears and her expression drawn with sadness. The tension in the air was palpable, a lingering reminder of the argument that had just unfolded between Ron and Harry.

Approaching her with a gentle smile, Genevieve took a seat beside Hermione and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Hey there, Hermione. Are you okay?" she asked softly, her voice laced with concern. Hermione let out a shaky breath, her eyes still glistening with unshed tears. "I don't know, Genevieve. Everything just feels so... complicated right now," she admitted, her voice trembling with emotion.

Genevieve nodded in understanding, her gaze warm and empathetic. "I know, Hermione. It's been a rough day," she replied, her tone soothing. "But you're not alone. We're all here for you, no matter what." Hermione offered a weak smile, grateful for Genevieve's comforting presence. "Thanks, Genevieve. It just... hurts, you know? Seeing Ron and Harry fight like that. I hate seeing them at odds with each other."

Genevieve squeezed Hermione's shoulder gently, her expression filled with compassion. "I understand, Hermione. It's never easy when the people we care about are at odds with each other," she said softly. "But remember, Ron and Harry have been through so much together. They'll work things out eventually."

Hermione nodded, her features softening as she took comfort in Genevieve's words. "You're right, Genevieve. I just...I just wish Ron wouldn’t have left like that," she admitted, her voice tinged with sadness. Genevieve smiled reassuringly, her eyes shining with understanding. "Horcruxes tend to do that. They’re vessels of the darkest parts of one soul. And in the meantime, if you ever need someone to talk to or just a shoulder to lean on, I'll be right here," she promised, her voice filled with sincerity.

Hermione's smile grew more genuine, a glimmer of hope returning to her eyes. "Thank you, Genevieve. I really appreciate it," she said, her voice soft with gratitude. With a comforting squeeze of Hermione's shoulder, Genevieve offered her friend a reassuring smile. "Anytime, Hermione. We're in this together, remember?" she said, her voice warm and supportive. As they sat together in the quiet of the library, Hermione found solace in Genevieve’s company, their bond growing stronger with each passing moment. And amidst the turmoil and uncertainty, she knew that Genevieve was someone who she could count on to unbear the weight she’s carried all along. 

The darkness of the night cloaked in an eerie stillness as Genevieve made her way through the dimly lit corridors. The weight of the day's events hung heavy on her shoulders, and she couldn't shake the feeling of unease that gnawed at her insides. As she wandered the ancient halls, her thoughts turned to Harry, wondering how he was coping with everything that had transpired. Turning a corner, Genevieve spotted a faint light emanating from the Black Tapestry room. Curiosity piqued, she pushed open the door and stepped inside, her gaze falling upon Harry pacing back and forth, his expression clouded with frustration and sadness.

"Harry?" Genevieve called out softly, her voice breaking the silence of the room.

Startled, Harry turned to face her, his eyes tired and weary. "Genevieve," he said, his voice heavy with emotion. "What are you doing up at this hour?"

"I could ask you the same thing," Genevieve replied, her tone gentle as she approached him. "I couldn't sleep. And it seems like you're having trouble too."

Harry let out a weary sigh, his shoulders slumping with exhaustion. "It's Ron," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "Our fight earlier, and I just can't shake this feeling of guilt."

Genevieve placed a comforting hand on Harry's arm, her eyes filled with empathy. "Harry, it's not your fault," she said firmly, her voice laced with conviction. "Remember what I said about the Horcrux? It has a way of magnifying our darkest thoughts and emotions. Your fight with Ron was a result of that influence."

Harry nodded, but the guilt still lingered in his eyes. "I know, but... it's hard not to blame myself," he admitted, his voice wavering with emotion. "Especially after everything that's happened."

Genevieve took a step closer to Harry, her expression softening with compassion. "I understand, Harry. But you have to remember that you're not alone in this. We're all here for you, no matter what," she said earnestly, her voice filled with sincerity.

Harry looked at Genevieve, his eyes brimming with unshed tears. "I miss him, Genevieve," he confessed, his voice cracking with emotion. "I miss Sirius so much. And every time I think about what happened... it just hurts."

Genevieve pulled Harry into a comforting embrace, holding him close as he let out a choked sob. "I know, Harry. I know," she murmured softly, her voice a soothing presence in the darkness. "But you have to remember that it wasn't your fault. You did everything you could to save him."

Harry clung to Genevieve, his shoulders trembling with emotion. "But it wasn't enough," he whispered hoarsely, his voice thick with tears. "I failed him."

Genevieve shook her head, her heart aching for his pain. "No, Harry. You didn't fail him. You fought for him with every ounce of your being," she said firmly, her voice unwavering. "And even though he's gone, his memory lives on in you. You carry his legacy with you, always." Harry buried his face in Genevieve's shoulder, seeking solace in her comforting embrace. For a moment, they stood together in the darkness, finding strength in each other's presence. And as the weight of Harry's grief began to lift, replaced by a glimmer of hope. 

She says softly, “It's late. You should get some rest.”

Harry said, “I know, but I can't seem to quiet my mind.”

“I understand, but pacing around won't solve anything. Sometimes, you just need to let go of your worries and trust that things will be better in the morning.”

“Easier said than done.”

“I know, but you need to take care of yourself. You've been through so much already. You deserve some peace.”

“I just can't shake this feeling of uneasiness.”

“I get it. But worrying won't change anything. Right now, what you need most is rest. Trust me, things always look better after a good night's sleep.”

“Okay, you win. I'll try to get some sleep.”

“That's the spirit. I'll be right here if you need anything. Goodnight, Harry.”

“Goodnight, Genevieve.” Harry says as he yawns. He moves to head back to sleep, leaving Genevieve standing in the room with her own racing thoughts.

As Genevieve stood before the Black Tapestry, her gaze fixed upon the intricate threads that wove together the history of the ancient family, her mind was a tumultuous whirlwind of conflicting emotions. The dreams haunted her still, vivid and unsettling. Two children, innocent and full of life, torn away from her grasp in a cruel twist of fate. 

And then there was Tom. His anguished outcry, his desperate plea for her return, echoed in her mind like a haunting refrain. The memory of his pain cut deep, a sharp reminder of the bond they once shared, before everything fell apart. But amidst the sorrow and the uncertainty, there was a flicker of determination burning within her. She refused to let despair consume her, refused to succumb to the darkness that threatened to engulf her.

For she knew that she had a purpose, a mission that transcended her own pain. She would bring Tom back, no matter the cost. She would defy fate itself if she had to, to see him standing before her once again. The path ahead was fraught with danger, filled with obstacles she could scarcely imagine. But she would face them head-on, with unwavering resolve and unyielding determination. For Tom was her everything, her reason for being. And she would not rest until she had him back by her side, where he rightfully belonged.

As Genevieve's eyes scanned the intricate patterns of the Black Tapestry, tracing the lineage of the ancient family through the ages, her thoughts swirled with a mixture of curiosity and unease. The most recent additions to the tapestry caught her attention, the two Black sisters standing out amongst the myriad of names and faces of Bellatrix and Narcissa. She also seemed to notice that someone had been blasted off the tapestry. Genevieve closed her eyes and hummed. She touched the blasted hole and let her magic run through her fingers and not a second later, she saw that she fixed it. Another sister appeared before her, Andromeda Black. Genevieve couldn't help but wonder what had happened. 

But as her gaze lingered on their names, a sense of foreboding washed over her. The sisters were entwined in a web of darkness and deceit, if she knew the Blacks at all, and she sure did. Their lives were shaped by forces beyond their control. Genevieve tore her gaze away from the tapestry, feeling a sense of disquiet settle over her. Leaving the room behind, she made her way through the corridors, her steps guided by a sense of purpose. She sought out Walburga, the matriarch of the Black family, hoping to glean some insight into the secrets that lay buried within the ancient walls.

As she approached Walburga's portrait, she braced herself for the inevitable confrontation. She had questions that needed answers, truths that needed to be uncovered. And she would not rest until she had unraveled the mysteries of the past, and perhaps, a glimmer of hope for the future.

Genevieve stood before the imposing portrait of Walburga Black, her former friend and confidante. The stern-faced woman in the portrait regarded her with a mixture of suspicion and disdain, her lips drawn into a tight line.

"Walburga," Genevieve began tentatively, her voice echoing softly in the quiet hallway. "I need to speak with you."

Walburga's expression softened slightly at the sound of Genevieve's voice, a flicker of recognition crossing her features. "Genevieve," she replied curtly. "What brings you here?"

Genevieve hesitated for a moment before pressing on, her curiosity outweighing her apprehension. "I wanted to ask you about your nieces – Bellatrix, Andromeda, and Narcissa. What happened to them?"

A shadow passed over Walburga's face at the mention of her nieces, a mix of sorrow and regret clouding her eyes. "Ah, my dear nieces," she murmured, her voice tinged with sadness. "They were once the pride of the Black family, shining examples of pureblood heritage." She paused, gathering her thoughts before continuing. "Bellatrix, the eldest, was always the most fervent in her devotion to the Dark Lord. From a young age, she showed a ruthless determination to prove herself, to earn his favor at any cost." Genevieve listened intently, absorbing every word as Walburga recounted the tale of her nieces' descent into darkness.

"Andromeda," Walburga continued, her voice tinged with regret, "chose a different path, one that led her away from the family's traditions and into the arms of a Muggle-born wizard. She betrayed our bloodline, shaming us all with her disgraceful actions." \Genevieve frowned at the harshness of Walburga's words, sensing the pain that lay beneath her facade of disdain.

"And Narcissa," Genevieve prompted, her curiosity piqued by the mention of the youngest Black sister.

"Narcissa," Walburga sighed, her voice heavy with sorrow. "She too was ensnared by the machinations of the Dark Lord, but her motives were driven not by loyalty, but by love. She sought to protect her family at all costs, even if it meant aligning herself with forces beyond her control."

"And now," Genevieve murmured, her voice barely above a whisper, "the family is but a shadow of its former self."

Walburga nodded solemnly, her gaze fixed on Genevieve with a newfound respect. "Indeed," she replied. "But perhaps there is still hope for redemption, for a chance to reclaim what has been lost." Genevieve nodded, feeling a pang of sympathy for Andromeda and the difficult choices she had been forced to make. The conflict between family duty and personal desire was a familiar one, and she couldn't help but admire Andromeda's courage in following her heart. For it was never an easy feat to defy family beliefs and tradition.

However, hearing that Bellatrix was devoted to Tom drew suspicions to Genevieve’s mind. To give up your freedom and to follow his counterpart entirely at such a young age only made her wonder, if Bellatrix was as loyal as Walburga said she was, and knowing Tom, he would give only his few and most loyal followers the most important tasks. Tasks, that could mean protecting a horcrux. Genevieve’s eyes widened at this idea. However, she would need confirmation from both Walburga and Harry and Hermione before anything. 

With one final question, Genevieve asked Walburga, “Whom did your nieces marry?”

Walburga said, “Well…Bellatrix married Rodolphus Lestrange. Andromeda married a Muggleborn…believe his name was Tonks or something along those lines. Narcissa married Lucius Malfoy.” Genevieve’s eyes narrowed at the mention of a Malfoy. She despised the Malfoy lineage, especially Abraxas. She recalled the times that he would torment Tom, only for him to be a slimy git and later on wanting to follow Tom for his power and his connection to Slytherin himself.

Genevieve thanked Walburga, “Thank you dear friend, you have helped me a great dear.”

Wlaburga nodded, “Not a problem my dear but I must say, you never mentioned how you are alive.” 

Genevieve smiled, “Like I said, it’s a long story. Nonetheless, when time is on our side, I’ll tell you all of it. Think of it as a favor I owe you for your insightfulness.”

Walburga smirked, “Once a Slytherin, always a Slytherin. Very well, good luck Gen. Toujours Pur.”

Genevieve replied, “Toujours Pur. Goodnight Walburga.”

As the morning sunlight streamed through the windows of Grimmauld, Genevieve bustled around the kitchen, preparing a hearty breakfast for Harry and Hermione. The aroma of sizzling bacon and freshly brewed coffee filled the air as she moved about with practiced efficiency. Harry and Hermione soon entered the kitchen, their tired expressions brightening at the sight and smell of the delicious spread laid out before them.

"Morning, Genevieve," Harry greeted with a warm smile as he took a seat at the table.

"Good morning, Harry, Hermione," Genevieve chimed, returning the smile as she set down plates of eggs and toast in front of them.

"Wow, this looks amazing," Hermione exclaimed, her eyes lighting up with delight as she took in the array of food.

Genevieve chuckled, pleased with their reactions. "Well, I figured we could use a good breakfast to start the day off right." As they dug into their meal, the conversation flowed easily between them, filled with laughter and camaraderie.

"So, any plans for today?" Genevieve asked, taking a sip of her coffee.

Harry shrugged, "Not much, really. Just going to try and decipher more of that mysterious note from R.A.B. and see if we can get insight to track down the next Horcrux."

Hermione nodded in agreement, her brow furrowed in concentration. "Yes, and I was thinking we should revisit some of the books in the library. There might be some clues we've overlooked."

Genevieve nodded thoughtfully, "Harry, I've been meaning to ask you," she began, her voice gentle. "How exactly did you acquire the diary that turned out to be a horcrux?" 

Harry paused, setting down his fork as he recalled the events of his second year at Hogwarts. "It was Ginny Weasley who had the diary first," he explained. "Lucius Malfoy slipped it into her cauldron when we were shopping for school supplies at Diagon Alley. Ginny became attached to it, but then strange things started happening. I found the diary in the girl's bathroom on the second floor. That's when I started writing in it, and that's when I met Tom Riddle." 

Genevieve listened intently as Harry recounted his encounter with the memory of Tom Riddle trapped within the diary. She could sense the weight of his words, the lingering trauma of facing Voldemort's past self. "And then," Harry continued, his voice tinged with determination, "I destroyed the horcrux with the basilisk fang from the Chamber of Secrets. It was the only way to stop Riddle from regaining his power." Genevieve's eyes widened at the fact that maybe she was right. If Lucius had a horcrux with him, then Bellatrix would as well, being the protectors of objects of such dark magic, she knew that Tom most likely gave it to them without them knowing what they were hiding. 

“That must have been extremely difficult. Destroying dark magic is extremely difficult and dangerous.” Genevieve said softly. 

“It was,” Harry replied, “But at the time, I didn’t know what it was. All I knew is that I had to save Ginny.”

Genevieve smiled, “You are extremely brave for that.”

Harry slightly blushed. “Thanks, uhm…I guess.”

Genevieve then asked curiously, “So Lucius Malfoy, is he a follower of Tom’s exclusive gang. Is he a Knight?”

Harry and Hermione were confused and furrowed their eyebrows. Harry said puzzled, “Uhm, no he’s a Death Eater. He was there when Voldemort came back to life.”

Genevieve furrowed her eyebrows now, “Death Eaters?”

Hermione interjected, “Yeah…those are what Voldemort’s followers are called. They bear the mark of a snake and skull.”

Genevieve eyes looked like they were going to barge out, “A mark? With a snake and skull? Where the snake comes out of the skull’s head?”

Harry, fumbling with his words said, “Yeah…wait how do you know that?”

Genevieve sighed, “I drew something once of exactly what you described. I was going to get a tattoo, like the ones Muggles have. I thought they were fascinating and I thought it would be a perfect way to rebel against my fathers. I never expected Tom to make it a mark for his followers…but I know if I was there still, none of this would happen. I think he became lost but I don’t think it was just because of me.”

Hermione, curious, asked, “What do you mean?”

Genevieve, slightly frustrated at herself, “I don’t know…I remember many things but there are still some things I can’t seem to recall…like if I am missing memories.”

Harry, concerned, wondered and asked Genevieve, “Do you think you lost some of your own memories?”

Genevieve turned to Harry and took a deep breath, “No…but I think I might need time to recall them.” Harry and Hermione merely looked at her and wondered how much more suffering she would endure. Genevieve turned to them, and softly smiled, “Don’t worry about me. It’s most likely because I was asleep for so many years. Why don’t you guys freshen up and we’ll meet in the library later.” Both Harry and Hermione smiled and finished their breakfast before moving to get ready for the day.

Draped in dark robes that the great Bellatrix Lestrange would wear, Genevieve strode through the marble halls of Gringotts Bank with an air of authority. Her features shifted and morphed with each step, her magic disguising her true identity flawlessly.

"I wish to open my vault," she barked at the nearest goblin, her voice a chilling echo of Bellatrix's own.

The goblin hesitated, eyeing her warily. "You must show your wand," he insisted, his voice gruff with suspicion.

Genevieve's lips curled into a cold smile as she met the goblin's gaze. With a flick of her wrist, she cast the Imperius Curse upon him, bending his will to her own. "Lead the way," she commanded, her tone brooking no argument. The goblin obeyed, leading Genevieve through the twisting corridors of Gringotts until they reached the imposing door of the Black vault. As they approached, the goblin spoke in hushed tones, moving to bang the bell to distract the Dragon that protected the vault. Genevieve told him to stop what he was about to do.

Genevieve smirked, her confidence unshaken. She stepped forward and hissed in Parseltongue, her words laced with ancient magic. 

“I mean no harm oh great Mother of Snakes.”

The dragon, startled by her ability to speak its language, rumbled in surprise. “A Ssspeaker, there isss very few of you left.”

“Yesss there are few left of usss. I only come to retrieve what is rightfully mine. If you allow me to passs of courssse.”

“Go ahead, my child.” Genevieve is able to head to the vault as soon as the dragon moves aside for her. Entering the vault, Genevieve's sharp eyes quickly scanned the dimly lit chamber. Galleons lay scattered across the floor, each one cursed to multiply upon touch. Ignoring the tempting glint of gold, she focused her attention on her objective.

There, nestled among the glittering treasures, she spotted it: Helga Hufflepuff's cup, gleaming with ancient power. With steady hands, she reached out and plucked it from its resting place, cradling it gently in her grasp. Safely stowing the cup in her satchel, Genevieve turned to leave the vault. But before she departed, she paused to bow respectfully to the dragon, gratitude shining in her eyes.

"Thank you Mother," she murmured, her voice sincere.

With a regal nod of its head, the dragon watched as Genevieve made her way back through the winding tunnels of Gringotts, her mission accomplished. As she emerged into the daylight, she allowed herself a small smile of satisfaction. The next step in their quest was complete, and she was one step closer to bringing Tom Riddle back from the darkness.

Harry and Hermione pored over dusty tomes and ancient scrolls, searching for any clue that might lead them to the remaining Horcruxes. The air was heavy with the scent of old parchment and the weight of their mission hung over them like a shroud. Harry slammed another book shut in frustration, causing Hermione to glance up from her own research with a concerned frown. "Any luck?" she asked, her voice gentle.

Harry shook his head, running a hand through his tousled hair. "Nothing," he muttered, his frustration evident. "I can't believe we've been at this for hours and we still don't have a clue about where to find Hufflepuff's cup or Ravenclaw's diadem."

Hermione's brow furrowed in thought as she turned back to her book, flipping through the pages with a sense of determination. "We just need to keep looking," she insisted, her voice unwavering. "There has to be something here that can help us."

Harry nodded, though his frustration still simmered beneath the surface. "I just wish we had more to go on," he admitted, his tone heavy with frustration. Just then, Hermione's attention was drawn back to her book, her eyes scanning the words intently. But as she tried to focus, thoughts of Ron's well-being began to creep into her mind, distracting her from her research.

"Have you seen Genevieve?" Harry's voice interrupted her thoughts, causing her to startle slightly.

Hermione shook her head, her expression troubled. "Not since breakfast," she replied, her voice tinged with concern. "Do you think something's wrong?"

Harry shrugged, though his worry was evident in his eyes. "I don't know," he admitted. "But I just have a feeling that we could use her help right now." As Harry moved off to search for another book, Hermione turned back to her own research, trying to focus her attention. But the weight of their mission, coupled with her concerns for Ron, weighed heavily on her mind. Unable to fight off the exhaustion any longer, she let her head fall onto the pages of her book, succumbing to sleep as the words blurred before her eyes.

Genevieve wandered through Grimmauld, her footsteps echoing softly against the ancient walls as she made her way to the library. She had been on her way to give the exciting news to both Harry and Hermione when she stumbled upon Hermione, fast asleep amidst a pile of books. Gently, Genevieve reached out and shook Hermione's shoulder, rousing her from her slumber. Hermione jolted awake with a gasp, her eyes wide with confusion before they softened with relief upon seeing Genevieve.

"Genevieve!" Hermione exclaimed, her voice filled with joy as she moved to embrace her friend. But before she could, her expression shifted to one of reproach. "Where have you been? Harry and I have been worried sick!"

Harry entered the library just in time to catch Hermione's scolding, his brow furrowed with concern. "Yeah, Genevieve, we've been worried about you, you just disappeared" he added, his tone matching Hermione's. Genevieve smiled softly at their concern, holding up her hands in a gesture of peace. "I'm sorry for disappearing like that without saying anything," she began, her voice gentle. "But I needed some time to clear my head and think things through."

Hermione opened her mouth to protest, but Genevieve held up a hand to silence her. "I promise I'm okay," she reassured them. "And I think I may have found a lead on where to find Hufflepuff's cup and Ravenclaw's diadem."

Harry and Hermione exchanged a glance, their concern giving way to curiosity. "What did you find?" Harry asked, his voice eager. Genevieve beckoned them closer, her expression serious. "But first, we need to make sure we're all calm and focused," she said. "Because what I'm about to tell you is going to require all of our attention." Harry and Hermione nodded.

Genevieve stood before Harry and Hermione, a triumphant smile playing on her lips as she moved to show them Hufflepuff's cup delicately in her hands. The room fell silent as Harry and Hermione's jaws dropped in astonishment, their eyes widening in disbelief at the sight before them.

"H-how... W-when…Where did you find that?" Hermione stuttered, her voice barely above a whisper as she struggled to comprehend what she was seeing.

Genevieve's smile widened as she glanced between her two friends, excitement bubbling within her. "It's a long story, but let me explain," she began, her tone filled with confidence. "Remember how you told me that Lucius Malfoy had Tom’s diary and put it in Ginny’s cauldron?"

Harry and Hermione nodded, their attention fully focused on Genevieve as she continued. "Well, it got me thinking. If Lucius had it and it was a Horcrux, then surely another member of his inner circle must have been entrusted with a Horcrux as well, without even knowing it."

Harry's eyes widened in realization, his mind racing to piece together the puzzle. "Bellatrix," he whispered, the pieces falling into place.

Genevieve nodded, her smile turning knowing. "Exactly. Bellatrix was one of the youngest followers of Voldemort and was fiercely devoted to him, just like Regulus. It got me thinking of the possibility that she was given a Horcrux to protect without even realizing what it was, especially if her cousin knew about them and Malfoy beared a Horcrux as well"

Hermione's eyes sparkled with curiosity as she leaned in closer, hanging on Genevieve's every word. "But how did you know where she hid it?" she asked, her voice filled with wonder.

Genevieve's smile turned mischievous as she recounted her daring adventure. "I had a little chat with Walburga," she began, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "The Black family always protected their most prized possessions in their vault. So, I disguised myself as Bellatrix and retrieved the Horcrux from the Black vault."

Harry and Hermione exchanged a look of awe, their admiration for Genevieve evident in their expressions. "That's incredible," Harry breathed, his voice filled with admiration.

Genevieve nodded, a sense of satisfaction washing over her. "It was risky, but it was worth it," she said, her voice tinged with determination. "And now, we're one step closer to bringing Tom back and destroying Voldemort."

Taglist: @wheenerrr @jillian2003 @secretkittydreamland

Tom Riddle Masterlist

© coolbeans32 2024

[chaoticfandomgirly]

Hiii, if you send me some of the scenes in your fic I might see if I can draw somthin! I do love drawing things for people's fics! Just send me a msg and I'll see what I can do. Sorry if I'm slow to respond tho I'm (trying) taking a brake from posting for a bit cus of a personal loss

Oh my god! I never had a fanartist give me an offer like this...I mean, I have never approached one before (I'm always so intimidated).

Also, I hope you're well. Please take all your time.

As for my fic, I had been working on a Hogwarts Founders fic, with Godric/Salazar pairing. Helga and Rowena have OCs for their pairing. Though, I had taken a break from writing it because of how swamped I am with work, and the story has too much world building.

I don't have a specific scene as such, but I think I would love Salazar and Godric on the roof of their home while Salazar teaches him about the stars. It's kind of like very central to the fic. I can DM you the specific para....although, what I would totally love is for you to like my fic to draw something because it's a really niche fandom. I don't want you to draw something that not a lot of people would see (though I hope that this fandom grows with time) and something you didn't really connect with in the first place.

So, I will DM you and then it's totally your decision. Thank you so much for your offer. I can't tell how elated I am! It's like a dream come true.

[aletterinthenameofsanity]

you and me in this ageless thing (told me I belong in this place) (Sentient Hogwarts- fight me jkr)

The fact that Hogwarts is a magical building is not a strange fact. Most wixes accept it without a second thought. 95% never think to question the wards that have soaked into the building’s foundation over the years, the magic that has drenched its hallways over nearly a millenium. Very few realize that Hogwarts- building of moving staircases and talking tapestries and a giant squid and rooms that respond to wishes- is sentient.

Of all of the students and teachers and house elves that have entered the Room of Requirement- the Room of Wishing Things- most have thought of the room as its own piece of magic. A complex spell, to be sure, but a singular one.

Maybe one or two students in a generation connect with the school as the original founders might have intended.

(Rowena would have rejoiced to know that someday, at some point in between decades and centuries, Magic itself had made the school not only a place of learning knowledge, but a place that carried knowledge itself. Helga would have welcomed the knowledge that the school itself is invested in protecting and supporting its residents. Salazar would have wondered at the full scope of what magic can do to inorganic stone. Godric would have enjoyed the way that Hogwarts has created her own wards, completely separate from anything that any wix has set up in her walls over the years.)

The Marauders are the closest to discovering the truth in their generation. They actually manage to tap into the school’s mind, its heart, with their map. They come up with the idea, the original piece of magic, but it is Hogwarts that not only allows it but allows some of her own magic to seep into its parchment, imprinting her soul onto it.

Three of the boys don’t question it. Only one- a little muggleborn werewolf in raggedy clothes and a craving for knowledge- does, and even he never gets all the way there. He doesn’t understand that the school allows them to create their map- not because of curiosity, or permissiveness. Hogwarts isn’t as calculating as the Sorting Hat.

No, Hogwarts does it because she loves them. She’s always had an affection for pranksters, for troublemakers, for those who test limits and innovate to their heart’s content. It is those kids- the girl gang that called themselves the Serpentine Six in the 1880s, the Marauders, the Weasley twins- that Hogwarts wraps her heart and her magic around, enhancing their endeavours, her magic cheering them on.

***

It is George Weasley who puts the pieces together for the first time.

It’s number of things that leads him to the conclusion.

It’s the Map, with its extensive and limitless knowledge of nooks and crannies, things that no student could ever find out on their own.

It’s the fact that stairs always seem to bend and shape in just the perfect way to let Fred and George get away with their pranks without professors getting caught.

It's the fact that when he makes out with Harry after his victory in the Second Task, the stones warm behind George's back, softening to provide them a soft space to lean against, comfort to have fun.

It’s the fact that the Room of Requirement doesn’t just shape itself to the inhabitants’ wills, but also seeks to protect whoever is inside. The reason why Umbridge didn’t manage to blast her way through before all of the members of the D.A. could get out was because the walls charmed themselves against her.

It’s the fact that George always seems to be able to find a room, a classroom, a closet, an alcove, to take kids to after Umbridge gets to them with her blood quill. Even if it’s not the Room of Requirement, it’s somewhere to take care of kids, to whisper reassurances into ears, to smear essence of murlap over wounds.

It’s the fact that when Harry comes out as Harry, as a boy instead of a girl, the Room doesn’t just provide a room to train in but supplies to transition. Magical binders and facial-hair-enhancing potions and the like. Hermione always gets somewhere private, safe, and tucked aside to make her prayers to Mecca. Dean gets a quiet place to go to light his menorah. Neville gets a soft closet and a spontaneous book of tricks to deal with anxiety, while every room that Angela enters becomes soundproofed, the air filtered around her ears to help her deal with her audiosensory issues.

THe school gives safe spaces. For trans kids, gay kids, religious kids, mentally ill kids. Its magic curls around them, takes care of them, loves them.

***

George sneaks out of bed one night while Fred is busy making out in some back hallway with Angela. He heads not for the Room, not for any logical location, but up to a random corridor on the Sixth floor, away from the kitchen, away from the towers, away from any dormitory.

He places a hand on the wall. "So," he says, voice an excited whisper, "You wanna tell me you're more than just a school? That you've got as many tricks up your sleeve as us Weasleys do?"

The stones warm beneath his touch. The lights glow around him and George smiles. "Thanks for seven years of fun."

Something curls around him, a hug from a ghost, a warm embrace by magic. George's soft smile turns into a beam and he can't help the laugh that spills from his lips as he reaches out, fingers entangling with a sense of pure magic that swirls through the corridors, an affection that is impossible and yet-

George knows, all the way down into his bones, that the school loves him. It loves all of them, all of its students, but him and Fred and all of the troublemakers that have entertained Hogwarts over the years-

It loves them the most.

***

The corridors move for him and Harry when they're sneaking around. The school gladly opens them new passages to avoid the crowds, ways to sneak out to Hogsmeade, ways to get around and find new ways to stick it to Umbridge.

(One thing that George realized, even before he put the pieces together about the school and its sentience, was that Hogwarts detests Umbridge's presence. There are only so many times that she can trip over a rug that magically gathered a crease or miss a step on the stairs or even just find a random bird following her through the hallways, cawing in her ear, before George notices what's going on.)

The school's magic, its heart, rejoices in George's veins. Now that he knows her, knows her truth, she is far more open about showing him love, showing him her secrets, revealing her soul. She doesn't just want to show off for George- she wants George to be able to show off to the boy he likes.

In return, George takes care of the school. He whispers cleaning charms whenever he sees someone leaving mud tracks from Hogsmeade, adjusts tapestries that are starting to list to the side, even repairs burn marks from his and Fred's pranks. It's not entirely needed, but it's a kind of extra care no one has given the school in centuries.

The school loves George and George loves her back.

***

No one will ever know that the fireworks that go off when George and Fred dip from Hogwarts were not planned by the twins. Sure, that's what George will tell Fred, what the world will assume, but the truth will sit between George and Hogwarts, in between the school and her boy.

***

After his brother dies in the final battle, after the battle wins in favor of Harry Potter and the Order, George finds himself not in the burnt out Room of Requirement or next to the rows of bodies in the Great Hall but rather back in his sixth floor corridor, leaning heavily against the wall, his wand dangling listlessly between the fingers of his right hand while his left hand braces itself against the school's singed wall.

There is a sorrow in the air. The school, broken and bleeding, is not grieving itself, but all of the children it has lost.

And George is grieving too. His brother, his other half of his coin, his mirror, is gone.

George has never existed without his twin brother. He has never had to. George has always been the planner, not the showman. What will he be without Fred to be loud, without Fred to cover up all of the ways in which George is not flashy, not showy, without Fred to make him laugh?

A sob is forcing itself from between George's teeth, tearing itself out of his throat. He has not given the tears permission to come, but now that the adrenaline from battle has dissipated, he cannot keep his self-control in place anymore.

Someone places a hand on George's shoulder. George glances upward to find Harry standing there, exhaustion in his eyes and sorrow on his bones.

"The school loved him," is the nonsense that babbles out of George's mouth, and he expects Harry to look at him weird. To question what kind of grief and stress and trauma drove him to talk about Hogwarts like this.

But instead Harry just nods and sits down on the floor in front of George, leaning against the wall behind him. He has always been understanding of difference, kind to things he doesn't know about yet.

George wishes he could think about how fun it was to make out with Harry. How so often D.A. meetings turned into dates after everyone else left. How they had so much fun sneaking around other Gryffindors and Weasleys and even Molly herself, back at the burrow.

But he can't. The words stick in his throat, trapped by his own grief and by Hogwart's sorrow.

Harry leans forward and offers out his hand. "Tell me about it," he says, and he is as weary as George, more exhausted than anyone, but there is still a love in his eyes, a desire to hear George's story.

George's tongue loosens as he lets go of his wand, letting it drop into his lap. He reaches forward and wraps his fingers around Harry's, entwining their hands together, and then lowers their hands to the ground, grazing the floor with their palms as he begins to speak.

The school sings under their fingers. It's not a happy song, but it is a kind one. A reminder of hope.

The school will rebuild, and George will be here for it. Harry will too. They'll both rebuild themselves along the way.

A school and her boys. George and the boy that loves him and the school that loves him.

Magic curls through the air, warming George's chest, and a smile lifts the corners of his lips the smallest bit.

He may have lost Fred, but he has not lost everything. He is still loved deeply, unconditionally, incredibly.

George Weasley opens his mouth and he begins to tell his story to his boyfriend and his school and the ghosts that will forever live in these walls.

https://archiveofourown.org/works/34856014

[arickaandherfictionalothers]

Aricka Potter, Draco, and the Philosopher’s Stone: the boy at Madame Malkin’s

Aricka could hardly believe it. Just hours before; she’d been expecting a perfectly boring birthday, sitting with Harry on the dirt floor of the shack they’d all ran away to, trying to keep out of sight of the Dursleys.

Now; she’d been thrust into a whole new realm of magic and wonder, and she was to attend a new school with her twin at her side. Currently; they were both at a robe fitting, and next she wanted to get a pet- she’d already decided on a cat; much to Hagrid’s dismay.

There was another boy with them, standing there with a bored expression on his face. When he noticed the twins entering, a mask instantly seemed to go up around him; and the twins exchange a subtle glance.

With a bright smile Aricka walked over and stood on a footstool next to him. “Hiya,” she said.

“Hello. Hogwarts, too?” He asks. She nods.

“I’m a bit nervous. We have no idea what we’re getting into. I’m Aricka Potter. You are?”

“I’m Malfoy; Draco Malfoy,” he says; and offers his hand to her. She smiles a bit brighter.

“Pleasure. So- you seem like you have a lot of knowledge and expertise when it comes to Hogwarts- would you care to share with myself and my twin? We were raised by muggles who- ah-,” she scratches the back of her neck, “didn’t care much for magical folk.”

Draco stares at her for a long moment. “The Boy Who Lived and the Girl Who Survived- not know anything about magic?”

“Guess we didn’t all grow up with a silver spoon in one hand and all the money we wanted in the other,” Harry spoke up for the first time the whole conversation. Draco gives him a look.

“Quite right,” he says. “I’m willing to give you my help, but we might not end up in the same houses. That complicates things a bit. Especially if you end up in Gryffindor- and if I’m in Slytherin. There’s a huge rivalry between those two.”

Aricka and Harry exchange another glance. “Could you start with explaining the houses?” Aricka asks. “As non biased as possible?”

Draco nods. “I can do that. I’ll start with Hufflepuff- personally I don’t want to end up there but it’s not as bad as people say. Founded by Helga Hufflepuff, it’s the most inclusive among the four houses, valuing hard work, dedication, patience, loyalty, and fair play rather than a particular aptitude in its members. If you end up there; you probably have a strong moral code, and a sense of right and wrong. They wear black and gold, and have a strong connection to earth. They’re represented by the badger. One of the more famous graduates of Hufflepuff was Newt Scamander, a Magzoologist who published Fantastic Beasts and where to Find Them.”

“What’s the others?” Harry asked.

“Next is Ravenclaw. Founded by Rowena Ravenclaw, characterised by their wit, learning, and wisdom. If you end here; you’re academically motivated and talented. They wear blue and bronze, and have a connection to air.” Harry stands on a footstool for his fitting on the other side of Draco so he could hear. “After that is Gryffindor. Founded by Godric Gryffindor, who championed courage, chivalry, nerve and determination. If you’re placed in that group; you’re generally regarded as brave, sometimes to the point of recklessness. They wear red and gold, and the element they’re affiliated with is fire.”

“And Slytherin?” Aricka asks, looking as though she was leaning toward that one and she hadn’t even heard of it. Draco grins at her.

“That’s my favorite,” he says. “Founded by Salazar Slytherin, he valued cunning, resourcefulness, leadership, and ambition. If you’re here, nine times out of ten you’re a Pureblood, but sometimes a halfbloods or muggleborn ends up there too. Those who end up in Slytherin typically clique together-acquiring leaders- showing their ambition and determination. They wear silver and green, and have a connection to water.”

“What did you mean by pureblood, halfbloods and muggleborn?” Harry asks.

“Right: blood purity. There’s three categories of Wizard blood- your Pureblood- the ones who were born from two full blood wizards. A half blood is a child born of a wizard and a muggle- a non magic person. A muggle born is someone born of two parents who don’t have magic. They inherited magic from somewhere in their family line.” Draco pauses as Madame made another measurement of his arm. “Some say that magic should be kept in the Pureblood families only. But if you ask me, that would make accidental magic happen more often.”

Aricka nods. “Thank you for your help. You can count on me for anything you might need.”

“Make that two of us,” Harry said. Draco glances between the two of them.

“You understand… certain families have roles to play- so if I say something that sounds the complete opposite of what I just told you-,”

“We know the truth,” Aricka said. “We won’t hold it against you.” The blond smiled. Harry held his hand out to Draco.

“I’m Harry.” The boy grins, and takes it, shaking it firmly.

“I’m Draco.”

And thus was the first alteration of a timeline of events.

————-

@astralshipper @rosieshipper @hyperionshipping @yeehawselfshipping @letsgofoletsgo @tsundere-selfship @callsign-revenge

[hollyparker]

Harry Potter - TVD au (I think that’s what you would call it) prompt

So, It was way late at night and I had this random Harry Potter (AU?) fanfic idea. What if someone made a HP/TVD (TVD stands for “The Vampire Diaries” and it takes TVD elements/aspects and puts it in HP, so it’s still HP and not a crossover) fic? It’s also fem!Harry. There will obviously be a lot of changes to the story, and rebuilding, but I feel like if done right, it can be really cool.

Disclaimer: I’m a big fan of both TVD and HP, but I am by no means an expert on either. I don’t know everything about these franchises or much about their world building and history. My knowledge is very limited. So, please bare with me.

Anyways here are some points and stuff I had in mind for it:

The time period would be very different. It either follows the TVD timeline (or it somehow mixes both) or it’s more modern time (like HP cursed child). So, a lot of the characters birth years would have to change and be pushed back and/or forward. If it follows the TVD timeline, than Harry would be born in the year 1992-1993 (instead of 1980), and it should take place in 2003-2004. If it follows the modern timeline, then Harry would be born 2005-2006, and it should take place 2016-2017. Note, it should only start at those years IF (and only if) you want to start the story from the beginning, when they were 10-11. If you want to start it where they’re 16-17, then depending on which time period you chose to follow you would start off in the years 2008-2009(TVD)/2022-2023(Modern).

It can either be realistic to our real life world or semi-realistic, where some of the events and things that happened in real life happen/happened in there, but not everything (so maybe Covid would not have ever been a thing and so on).

The Potter family would be the Bennett family of the universe. Harry would be Bonnie (the character, not the name). This is mostly because of the whole Bennett witches being so connected with death and “the other side” (bc of Bonnie’s ancestor, Qetsiyah) and then Bonnie becoming the anchor to the other side. Then we have the Potter family also being connected with death and the whole Master of Death thing (bc of Harry’s ancestor, Ignotus) and then Harry becoming the “Master of Death”. Since the Bennett family is mostly dominated by the women, you can do the same with the Potter family and just make up some more Potter witches if there’s not enough canonical or you can just make it where it focuses on both Witches and Wizards in the family.

Squibs would be the Siphoners. You could keep Squibs as they are, magically born people with no magic themselves, and though they can still see magical things, they can’t really interact with it or they can be all that but actually have the ability to siphon (draw out) magic from magical beings/things (obviously with limits) to use.

For the werewolves (or Vamps), you could keep them as they are in HP or you can change them completely to TVD werewolves (and Vamps) or just keep them as they are in HP but they have some TVD aspects (like the werewolves being able to control their transformations with Moonlight rings and vamps being resistant to sunlight with Daylight rings but without giving them any superhuman abilities or immortality).

The founding families could either be the Pureblooded families (the sacred 28) or the founders of Hogwarts (Helga, Rowena, Godric, and Salazar).

The elixir of life in HP is literally just the immortality elixir in TVD (they’re literally the same thing, only, where the HP one has limits/is not forever and you have to drink it regularly, the TVD one is forever just from one drink.

How death(s) and ghosts are handled can be a mixture between both franchises or you can decide on which one you want it to lean towards more.

Vampire Hunters & any other Supernatural Hunters could be made relevant, and actually be (somewhat) important figures in the story. You can do a mixture of both or decide whether you like the TVD or HP version better.

For sirens, you can keep them as they are in HP, mix them up, or make them as powerful and important as the TVD sirens (or maybe you can change it up and make the Veela’s into what the TVD sirens are instead, since the sirens in HP live in water, have no legs, and thus can’t come out to land. So Veela’s could just be the sirens of the land (land sirens).

To be continued -

[thetorturedmusesdept]

Nerezza's Pinterest

DESCRIBE YOUR CHARACTER’S AESTHETIC IN FIVE WORDS OR LESS Wands. Books. Potions. Hand-held mirrors. Nerezza's aesthetic is that of a pureblood witch from a very long time ago. WHAT FLOWER WOULD YOU CONNECT TO YOUR CHARACTER? WHY? Yellow Hyacinths. Yellow hyacinths represent jealousy. Nerezza is already a very jealous person, always wanting the best and hating it when others take what's hers. When she finds out that Salazar is with Helga, the jealousy will be overwhelming. PICK A CRYSTAL THAT YOU FEEL FITS YOUR MUSE BEST AND EXPLAIN THE CONNECTION Blue Apatite. Blue Apatite brings communication, manifestation, and intuition. It helps with one's ability to communicate as well as manifest their desires. Both are things that Nerezza so desperately needs help with at the moment. OUT OF WATER, FIRE, EARTH, AND AIR, WHICH ELEMENT DO YOU THINK REPRESENTS YOUR CHARACTER BEST? As a Scorpio, Nerezza's element is Water. Water elements value intelligence, and though the other traits of people with their element as water don't speak much to Nerezza, she does love to learn and seek knowledge, especially pertaining to witchcraft. WHAT COLOR DO YOU MOST STRONGLY ASSOCIATE WITH YOUR MUSE? A deep green. Dark green typically has to deal with greed and money, and greed is definitely Nerezza's vice. She's also very wealthy, coming from a very influential pureblood family. IS THERE AN ANIMAL YOU FEEL FITS YOUR MUSE’S PERSONALITY BEST? Nerezza would definitely be a snake. Snakes are beautiful and yet the can definitely have a nasty bite. ARE THERE ANY CHOICES YOUR CHARACTER MAKES SOLELY BECAUSE IT FITS THEIR AESTHETIC? Not really, Nerezza just wants to look good. PICK ONE QUOTE THAT YOU THINK OF WHEN YOU THINK OF YOUR CHARACTER AND SHARE IT WITH US I think of the quote, "Magic is not a toy to be played with, but a force to be respected and harnessed." Nerezza has a great deal of respect for magic and what people can do with it. She holds her pureblood and ability to wield magic dear. LIST OFF THE TOP THREE KINDS OF IMAGERY THAT COME TO MIND WHEN YOU THINK OF YOUR MUSE Snakes, wands, and books. DESCRIBE YOUR MUSE USING ONLY AO3 TAGS

PICK YOUR TOP THREE FAVORITE MEMES FROM YOUR CHARACTER’S PINBOARD AND SHARE THEM WITH US

[pickon7]

Harry potter characters quiz

Harry potter characters quiz Harry Potter is a series of seven fantasy novels written by British author J. K. Rowling. We watched many wondrous series but one movie ascended among all is Harry Potter. In this blog we talked about the beginning of the series chapter 1 - Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (2001) plus to refresh your mind you can play short Quizzes given in the last ..have fun.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (2001)

Movie begins with two wizard persons  named Albus Dumbledore and Mcgonagall who was carrying a wretch little soul later named as Harry Potter . Both persons left the boy at the door of his uncle's house because of any reason. Read More: Oscars 2022 nominations , winners & History Wondrous letters After years when Harry Potter is 10 received wondrous letters which were torn by his uncle everytime. His uncle and his family's behavior wasn't good at all towards him. Later we see the entry of a giant man and he introduced himself as Hagrid. He disclosed about all the letters to Harry that all these letters are sent from Hogwarts (school of magic in Wizarding universe) and you are not any ordinary boy but the child of magicians and he himself supposed to be megician as well and his parents killer name Voldemort. Train to Hogwarts After knowing his true identity Harry is now ready to go to megical world. He entered the train where he finds his would be friends Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, they three get along really well. After getting into the Hogwarts they encountered with different mysterious things like invisible clothe, unicorns, flying broomstick and among all of them one thing attracted them was the Stone. The Stone Hermione who was really into books successfully able to find about the Stone. They three find out that the Stone can make anyone immortal and the stone is protected by Professor Snape. Further the story continues and later events disclose about Stone plus Voldemort. Also Read: The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power TV Show, Review, Movie Quiz All the Harry Potter series connected to each other.

The Hogwarts House

Young wizards who receive their letters at age of 11 years old from Hogwarts. Before starting their school they have to be selected to their respected houses. Hogwarts was founded by Godric Gryffindor, Garud dwar, Rowena Ravenclaw , Helga Hufflepuff, Salazar Slytherin in 10th century. Houses were named by their last names.  Every individual who enters into these have same traits like the founders. - Godric Gryffindor - Garud dwar - Rowena Ravenclaw - Cheel ghaat - Helga Hufflepuff - Mehnatkash - Salazar Slytherin.- Naag sakti This movie series available on: - Katmoviehd - Vegamovies - Yomovies - soap2day Find the Harry Potter characters by their eyes: Also Visit: - Guardians of the galaxy 3 | upcoming marvel movie - All of us are dead where filmed this amazing netflix tv show Best Most Popular Netflix Shows Ever Interesting Facts About Ben 10 Web Story Read the full article

[dracosathenaeum]

Soulmates i

Summary: Fate was cruel enough to make your soulmate Draco Malfoy

Pairing: Draco Malfoy x Reader

Warnings: None

Word Count: 1,320

Every witch and wizard once at the age of 16 will be eligible for a soulmate, this was common knowledge. Once the both of you are of age, when you first connect eyes with them, their name is printed onto your right wrist. It is cruel though; you could’ve met them any day before your 16th birthday but would never know until you met them again.

The Triwizard tournament wasn’t just for fun, but for soulmates to meet too. It was all everyone would talk during 5th year, the anticipation clear the second they stepped onto platform 9 and 3/4.

Every young witch had dreamed about the day they locked eyes with their soulmate across the great hall, or in a lesson. Usually 70-80% of witches and wizards found their soulmates during their school years, only a few were unlucky enough to have to spend their adult years searching too.

The most famous couple to date? James and Lily Potter, the Hogwarts sweethearts who died to save their son, what greater love story was there? Well other than Salazar Slytherin and Helga Hufflepuff or was it Salazar and Godric? The history books weren’t so clear about that.

Unfortunately for you, your birthday was in August during the school holidays and so it wasn’t until you returned to Hogwarts during your 6th year that you would get to meet your soulmate. You had spent all of 5thyear watching most of your year group pair off and get all lovey dovey, you were more jealous than anything, that you could admit.

Now two months into your 6th year, you stood next to your broom, ready for your match against Slytherin. You weren’t by any means a child prodigy, you just enjoyed Quidditch and practised hard enough to be able to make the team by 3rd year. Watching from the side-lines as your team got thrashed every year wasn’t enough for you, if Slytherin were willing to play dirty every game, you’d give them a taste of your own medicine.

Sitting on your broom, you waited for the whistle to blow, adrenaline coursing through your veins. Your eyes search the skies for the flash of gold that would signal the end of the game; your one and only goal. The whistle blew and the game started, you were hovering above the rest of the team, eyes scanning the air for any sign of the snitch.

It wasn’t until about the 20th minute that you finally caught sight of it, flying in front of your team’s stands. Your eyes locked with Draco Malfoy’s across the field, he was closer to it than you were, almost right behind it. Luckily it looked as though he hadn’t seen it yet, the Slytherin seeker had been watching you and not the snitch, probably just too lazy to find it himself.

You acted fast, racing towards the snitch; giving no time for Malfoy to catch up to you as you flew through the air. Soon enough he was hot on your trail, the wind blowing against the both of you. This is why you loved the game; the rush, the adrenaline, the satisfaction of finally spotting the golden ball. You were not letting Draco win this, with the scores tied up, this snitch would win you the game. And any chance of beating snotty Slytherin’s, you would take even if it was still early into the game.

The second your fingers closed around the tiny thing, you thrust your hand in the air, snitch visible between your fingers. Throwing your gloves to the ground, you kissed the snitch, the win allowing your house to go to the finals.

“Congratulations to Y/H for winning this match but a bigger congratulations to the new pair! Draco Malfoy and Y/N Y/L/N have just received their soulmate marks! I think we can all agree that no one saw this coming, but we wish you happiness for the rest of your lives! What a thrilling ending to the qualifiers!”

Your eyes practically bugged out of your head as your vision focused on your right wrist. Draco Lucius Malfoy was imprinted onto the smooth skin there, looking as though it was always meant to be there. Malfoy? Malfoy who you’d never even spoken a word to in the last 6 years? Malfoy who you watched bully countless students and that Potter had convinced everyone who would listen that he was a death eater? No, there had to be some mistake.

You flew to him, grabbed his wrist between your fingers and removed his gloves. This was the first time you had ever been so close to him, having never even shared a class together before. He was being oddly quiet though, nothing like the loud, cruel boy you often scoffed at in the hallways.

Taking off the glove, and him being surprisingly cooperative, you saw your own name scrawled across his wrist, the same font as his own name on your wrist.

“This has to be a mistake. I- I have to go.” There was no way, no way, fate would pair you up with Draco Malfoy. How could the gods be this cruel, they must have made a mistake? Someone like Draco Malfoy deserved someone like Pansy Parkinson, someone equally as horrible him. Not you, not you who was simply a quiet student who kept her head down and studied, never a foot out of line (well if you don’t count quidditch).

You landed on the grass and immediately ran towards your changing rooms, needing to get out of there as soon as humanly possible. It really didn’t help that you had the entire school as witness, you couldn’t hide forever, you knew that. But you sure as hell were going to hide for as long as possible.

Avoiding Draco wasn’t as hard as you first thought it might’ve been. Avoiding your friends, however, was impossible.

“None of us are really thrilled that he’s who fate paired you up with but give him a chance! I mean he’s your soulmate, you’re stuck with him whether you like it or not, you might as well start trying now.” You were going to throttle your friends. You loved them, you really did but they’d all found their soulmates last year, and none of them were notorious bullies or suspected death eaters. They were nice lads who got on with all of you well, you couldn’t imagine adding Draco to your comfortable little group and him fitting in.

“You guys don’t understand! It’s Draco Malfoy? The one who’s been hexing first years and who’s a massive blood supremacist? How could I possibly fall for him?” You didn’t know if you were more upset or angry, out of everyone why would fate pair you up with him? And why was Draco even trying, why wasn’t he just upset as you were. You weren’t blind, you caught him staring at you in hallways, at every meal in the great hall and at each Quidditch game. And in each place, you would bolt as fast as you could once you saw him start making his way towards you.

“Uh Y/N you might want to-“

“No! Look I love you guys and I really appreciate that you’re trying to help me but you’re asking me to do the impossible. How could anyone love him?” You had said your piece, feeling slightly guilty for shouting at your friends but at the same time it was as if a huge weight had been lifted off your shoulders. “I’m sorry for shouting at you guys, I'm just frustrated.”

“It’s not us you should be apologising to, love.” Liam pointed behind you and you turned to see a blonde figure walking away, hands balled up at his sides, head hanging low. Suddenly the weight on your shoulders that had just left was back, but heavier and it weighed down on your heart too.

“Fuck.”

PART 2 | PART 3

#A/N: credit to that one percabeth fanfic I read years ago where percy was famous and this was the soulmate trope. This will probably be a mini-series, only like 2 or 3 chapters long.

Taglist: @bbeauttyybbx @pipppaaaaalouisee @theslytherinprincessworld @fangirl-3d2y​ @tttyrus @scriptingslytherin @justmimithings @purpleskymalfoy​ @minigigglybabi @malfoyquinn @secretaccshh @obbrssession @whatwoulddracodo @thatoneniceslytherin​ 

[greycappedjester]

First off, literally LOVE hq@hw and the cards series and can’t express how much I love the way you write and your characterizations and relationships between them all, it’s just so amazing! (all your other works are on my tbr even though I haven’t watched those shows like Dr. Stone and The King’s Avatar bc I love your writing so much)

Okay so I was rereading the first hq@hw (I forgot how good and pure it was!) and something in chapter 25 The Founding Treasure stood out to me, and I NEED ANSWERS!

“ “Salazar nodded absently, moving on in his speech. “It is my misfortune to inform you, however, that though you have completed the task, I have nothing I can give you.”

The statue stopped with an air of mournful finality. Helga stepped forward, grabbing his shoulder. “My brother’s statue was created before he split from the rest of us,” she explained sadly.

“I escaped my creator’s madness but unfortunately, he did not entrust me with his treasure,” Salazar confirmed.” ”

Does this mean Salazar Slytherin was going to offer the basilisk as his treasure!?! Idk how his potential treasure could be spoilers but if it somehow is then nevermind! But if that was his treasure then hello??

Again literally love all your works!!

Thank you so, so much!

So, to answer your question, Slytherin wasn't exactly...well, sane while the Chamber/Founders Treasure was being built; but, I don't necessarily think his treasure was a basilisk.

My headcanon is that his treasure was probably an artifact relating to parseltongue. Most likely a collection of thorough study and documentation of origins of the language, its connection to wizarding genetics, and larger conclusions about what that means for other magical related hereditary traits (like parseltongue, metamorphmagus, legilimens, etc.). It would have been a brilliant historical artifact of wizarding medical history, especially as that information had (somewhat ironically) been suppressed by blood purists over the ages for its also unflattering implications on inbreeding weakening wizarding lines.

Anyway, I think that would make most sense as Slytherin's treasure as it has to do with something inherently parseltongue and an interest that could easily be twisted into a historical misunderstanding about Slytherin's "obsession with blood heritage".

[siswritesyanderes]

I am rather perplexed by my reactions to your yandere founders headcannons like it makes me feel like as when I step into the shoes thier darling which I tend to do when reading these I feel invalidated and hurt and angry. But most of all betrayed like it is not even rational like I don't mind being kidnapped or gradually isolated by some of the other yanderes you write like it doesn't make me feel angry betrayal like yeah wouldn't want in real life but when just reading it as an escape kinda crazy comfort thing it is hot and honestly love the protective vibe lol. But with the founders maybe it is the fact that they made compromises and talked it out and made a treaty that directly impacted the readers life with little to no regard for what they may or may not want and even if Helga and Godric made some compromises and made the others promise not to do certain things read Rowena and Salazar tampering with readers memories of her ex partner in the headcannon where she was already married as an example it could be interpreted as selfish on their part with little actual regard to protecting reader they just want to be seen as the hero by the reader or thier sanctuary in Helga's case away from the craziness of the others like no matter what they are getting something by making the others compromise and the reader may benefit from it but it wasn't the sole reason they did it. Like I feel like they see reader as an object without feelings or desires and don't even give the slight illusion of being an equal to them. I feel like as the reader I would feel most connected with and betrayed by Rowena followed by Helga. I am quite the bookworm and while I don't chase all knowledge for the sake of it I adore and can sit and read and study and consume certain topics like history, physics, and marine biology and various other topics for many hours and not get the slightest bit bored love weird facts too. I also like to read fantasy and science friction a lot to so I think me and her would connect with a love of reading at the very least. And well I don't think I would do well with hiding these feelings especially with Rowena wanting to be in my head which generally I don't see anything super wrong with yandere telepaths being in my head like wanda or Jean grey (weird I know but maybe I am just obsessed with the idea of unconditional acceptance and love and if they see the worst parts of your mind and still want you that is the one and I kinda headcannon them as being very warm and pleasurable presences in your mind like they want you to want them there especially jean) I feel like I would be even more upset by her entering my mind like no traitor stay away I am upset with all of you. Probably insane but thanks for reading my rambling if you got this far and I love your writing. Just had to verbalize the way the founders made me feel wouldn't get out of my head bet they would love that if they knew😂 wasn't critzing your writing or anything to clarify.

All of this is totally valid, lol. One of the interesting parts of writing yanderes is seeing the different circumstances under which some people will be super angry at the yandere in question and others will feel comforted. Yanderes can be enticing and infuriating, and the subtlest changes can tip it from one to the other or both at the same time. (And I think I mentioned feeling similarly about the yandere telepath dynamic in one of my yandere Aro posts! So I'm definitely with you on that one, lol. I'm not sure about Jean Gray, but yandere Wanda could be pretty choice.) I can definitely see how the dynamic of "We made agreements amongst ourselves and you're pretty much just along for the ride" could make you pretty indignant, especially when there's four of them. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[joisbishmyoga]

Ok, to go with my headcanon about the Hogwarts Founders (to wit: based on etymology, they can't be contemporous), I have headcanons about Hogwarts castle itself.

Number one! It, like the Founders, was ALSO not all contemporous. (And my apologies that I still can't find the goddamn keep-reading option.)

Helga never-actually-Hufflepuff's Hogwarts, c. 990-1090:

The original and oldest part of the school is the tower that now houses the famous moving staircases and the Headmaster's Office. (It wasn't alone, though: it had a number of outbuildings, stables and smithies and such, that have long since vanished.)

The tower was not, at the time, a hollow column full of moving staircases. It was a defensive watchtower akin to Threave Castle in Scotland, though somewhat taller and a little bit larger. It was also not round at the time, which can still be seen in the fact that the interior is square; later generations simply added walls to make it round. There are almost certainly late medieval and Renaissance defenses, as well as secret passages, built into the space between the original tower and the rounding walls.

The tower's long-since-removed floors:

Cellars (wine and cold storage).

Ground floor (entrance, reception, kitchens).

2nd floor, in the American style of count (dining, Helga's room).
3rd floor (classrooms)

4th floor (dorms: divided by gender and class rather than age)

5th floor (servants and defense).

The cellars expanded regularly over the centuries, a new room or corridor or floor built every time the castle's population (or political demands, see below) needed more cold storage.

The conical roof and the modern Headmaster's suite were added at a much later date.

Rowena Hraefenclew's Hogwarts, c. 1050-1150:

The first expansion of the castle was the modern-day Great Hall, though it lacked the enchanted ceiling attributed later to Ravenclaw. The recieving of guests was transferred to this space from the original tower, and the grand entertainments of medieval feasts and banquets were added to school life -- a requirement of any social networking, as Rowena steered the school through the political mess of the era without getting entangled in any of it.

(The enchanted ceiling was a Renaissance creation, adding light to what had been a very dim space. The original enchantment wasn't of the sky, though, and the modern ceiling would appall the people of the 1400s: what is so grand or impressive or artistic about just making the roof invisible?

(Not having a masterpiece of Christian religious art looming over the heads of hundreds -- thousands -- of magicals who'd just lived through zealous persecution, is what. The people who charmed it all invisible considered the frescoes to be quite gauche and impolitic.))

Salazar Slytherin and Godric Gryffindor's Hogwarts, c. 1150-1250:

The High Middle Ages brought a massive amount of upheaval to England (and France: half of the modern nation was ruled by England at the start of this period), as well as the rest of Europe. This is the era later connected to Robin Hood, the age of the Magna Carta and Richard the Lionheart and Prince (King) John... and that is where we begin, with Richard faffing off to join the (many, many, MANY) Crusades, and King John losing the entirety of the French regions of his rule. Loss of land = loss of wealth --> spikes in taxes and fees on nobles --> furious nobles --> Magna Carta + King John's reputation forever in the toilet + the absentee and therefore not interfering with nobles' power and money King Richard getting lauded as the best king ever (spoiler: he v much was NOT).

Richard's career included internecine rebellions, uprisings, cruelty in what provinces he bothered to rule (in France), and widespread Jewish persecution. (Things that are pretty much always in Europe: Jewish persecution. The Crusades were mostly massive disasters that did very little to Islamic rule and population in the Holy Land, but exterminated some 90% of Jewish Europe on the way. HSST.)

All of this is to say that Salazar and Godric's Hogwarts expanded to accomodate thousands of Jewish, wandering-poor, and magical refugees from the Continent: Hogwarts was still the only formal, centralized school of magic in all of Europe, and would be for several more decades.

The school still didn't reach the modern extent by the end of this building period, but got up to about 50 percent, adding almost everything on one side of the ravine that cuts through the bluff. Except for the clock tower, the Great Hall's half of the school was complete.

This is also when Hogsmeade changed from being a House-Elf farming settlement to a human town, and for the same reason: Continental refugees, largely from the Childrens' Crusade -- thousands of people of all ages, later thought to all be children due to a misunderstanding in language. (The word for "child" was co-opted to mean "the working/wandering poor": basically, "the (socially) powerless".)

The post-Founders' Hogwarts, c. 1250-1900:

The second half of the school, the conical tower rooftops (and rooms inside them), the internal plumbing for baths (but not toilets), and all the bridges -- both the stone ones across the ravine and the wooden one to Hogsmeade -- were all built in a hurry in the late 1500 and early 1600s, this time to handle refugees during the last few decades before the Statute of Secrecy. The modern Headmaster's Office was also built at this time, as high as possible to cover all approaches to Hogwarts.

Unlike the stone bridges of the ravine, the bridge to Hogsmeade has always been made of wood, in order to be easily destroyed should the castle come under attack. (And in fact it actually has been destroyed several times, most recently in the 1970s as a pre-emptive measure against Voldemort. It was then rebuilt in 1982 with more nostalgia than construction skill.)

As mentioned before, this -- the early 1600s -- is when the Great Hall's enchanted fresco ceiling was rendered invisible.

The T-shaped clock wing on the Great Hall's side, being a six-story pendulum-type clock, was built in the early 1800s, and improved in the late 1800s for accuracy and not whacking students around like golf balls. (The restrooms were also added and improved at these times.)

The greenhouses were built around 1900: Dumbledore might well have had Herbology classes before they were put in.

Now then. That is all headcanon #1. Construction headcanon #2:

Hogwarts is in TERRIBLE condition.

The famous enchanted ceiling is perhaps the most obvious damaged spot. Or it would be if it hadn't been charmed invisible. While it had Owl Post holes in it. (For the record, the easiest way to bring down, say, a barn? Chop a 3x3 ft. hole in the roof and wait ten years.) For the last four or five centuries, every time someone on staff noticed they were getting dripped on, they just threw an Impervious Charm up at the ceiling and considered the leak magically fixed. There's literally nothing left but the Impervious charms and a few scraps of gold leaf.

The stairs are another trouble spot. Centuries of people walking on them should have them worn down in the middle to look like you cut a bowl in half vertically. Would have, but the House Elves have been pulling the stone up flat again for centuries, and eventually started using magic to color-match and add enough support to the remaining stone to take people's weight. Some of the well-known trick stairs that like to disappear? That's not the magic being playful. That's the magic of late House Elves fritzing out to show there's no step left. (The moving stairs have also ground down their joints to nothing.)

It's the same across the entire castle. Centuries of manipulating the materials and covering wear with illusions and throwing Impervious Charms at drafts and drips means a lot of Hogwarts is nothing but swiss cheese and fading spells cast by long-deceased magicals anymore.

(Or it was, until the Battle of Hogwarts in 1998 disrupted enough of the remaining spells to drop them. Voldemort's forces were powerful, but not THAT powerful.)

(A large percentage of the two generations following Harry's were saved by the Battle of Hogwarts. Slytherin House was a misaimed hex away from flooding, and most of the towers were going to collapse with a few more winters of ice picking away at the mortar. Of course if the previous several centuries of magicals had just bothered to check...)

[thepikachu1]

Calling all Hufflepuff and Helga Hufflepuff Lovers!

I’ve been thinking of the rooms in hogwarts and the founders. So Salazar Slytherin has his Chamber of secrets, and I connect Rowena Ravenclaw to the Room of Requirements. I’ve been thinking that a room that Goodrich Gryffindor could have would be a dueling room. I’m not too sure for Helga Hufflepuff tho.

[oakandgumtrees]

tl;dr ‘Hufflepuff’ comes from Welsh

Godric Gryffindor, Rowena Ravenclaw, Helga Hufflepuff, and Salazar Slytherin.

It’s easy to spot the odd one out if you know anything about European languages. Hard ‘g’s and ‘c’s, ‘v’s, ‘w’s and ‘h’s...these all fit into the Germanic language family, which includes Anglo-Saxon. (And sort of English, but Modern English is a Frankenstein-esque hybrid, so we’ll come back to that.)

Compared to the first three, Salazar Slytherin is full of exotic sibilants, more at home in France, or Spain, or even the Middle East. Even without the symbolism of the snake, Slytherin is set up from his very name as the odd one out, the suspicious and mysterious outsider.

But plenty of people have talked about that. Let’s talk about the other three.

In a broad sense, the names are Germanic-ish. But when you look closer, there are issues. 

‘Godric’ is a good old Anglo-Saxon name. ‘Helga’ is just as old, but Norse. ‘Rowena’ (also spelt Rhonwen, Renwein, and Romwenna) can be dated to the 12th century Historia Regum Brittaneae, as the name of a quasi-mythical daughter of a 5th century Saxon king who marries the king of the Britons. The name may have Welsh origins or Germanic ones, but I’m happy to accept it as a name potentially in circulation that has been somewhat anglicised over time. 

‘Ravenclaw’ is just about as Germanic a name construction as you can get, although it has presumably been anglicised as the language has shifted over time. Gryffindor and Hufflepuff, though...where the hell did they come from?

I would like to suggest that they come from Welsh, or rather, Brythonic.

Godric ap Gryffudd Dwr

A Welshman would usually have a first name, and a patronymic last name, formed with the word ‘ap’ (meaning ‘son of’) followed by the name of his father. If his father was particularly notable, his father’s name might include a nickname.

‘Gryffudd’ (in various spellings) is a common and quite old Welsh name. It’s pronounced ‘Griffith’.

‘Dwr’ is a descriptive by-name, one that is relatively common in Welsh. It means ‘black’, and usually refers to hair colour. 

So, the son of a black-haired Welshman called Gryffudd would quite plausibly be known as ‘[first name] ap Gryffudd Dwr’, which over time, English-speakers might simplify to ‘Griffithdor’, or even ‘Griffindor’.

Of course, this does require him to be living in a Brythonic-speaking area, with a Brythonic/Welsh father, and yet have a very Anglo-Saxon name. But that’s relatively easy to excuse, if his mother was Anglo-Saxon. I can live with it.

Helga Hoff am Pyth

This took a bit of searching, and does require a little imagination. Could ‘hoff am pyth’ be anglicised to ‘Hufflepuff’ over time? Well, making both the consonants match is a thing that happens, which takes it to ‘hoffampyff’. The ‘am’ is a preposition, which would be unstressed, and would fairly easily lose its consonant, making ‘hoffapeff’. If the vowels blend towards each other, you could get ‘huffapuff’. So yes, I’m calling this a plausible shift over time.

But is ‘Hoff am Pyth’ a meaningful phrase in Welsh? ‘Hoff’ means favourite, darling, pleasant, delightful, admirable, and various other positive things. ‘Am pyth’ is a phrase meaning ‘forever’. So as a by-name, ‘Hoff am Pyth’ suggests that someone Welsh-speaking thought Helga was the best EVER. 

Who could that someone be? Why would Helga be in a Welsh-speaking area when her first name is Norse?

Hogwarts Started Off Welsh

Before the arrival of the Anglo-Saxons, most of the island of Britain was Welsh-speaking. Except it wasn’t called Welsh, because that’s an Anglo-Saxon word. They were British, or Brythonic, or Britons, or whatever variant you choose. The Anglo-Saxons spread from the south-east of the island, and the Gaels (the Irish, who became the Scottish) spread from the north-west, but it is very plausible to me that the region of the Caledonian forests where Hogwarts is was Welsh speaking before it was Gaelic speaking or English speaking, and possibly still was at the time of the founders.

And of course, there’s Merlin. Who is originally a Welsh mythical figure called Myrddin, and is supposedly connected with the Founders and assisted the Foundation of Hogwarts. Could he have been the one to praise Helga so much, in Welsh, that she became known for what he called her? Not Helga Eriksdottir, or Bjornsdottir, or Haraldsdottir, but Helga Hoff-am-Pyth?

[chaoswillfallrpg]

CAIUS BURKE is TWENTY-SEVEN YEARS OLD and a SHOP ASSISTANT at BORGIN AND BURKE’S in KNOCKTURN ALLEY. He looks remarkably like GREGG SULKIN and considers himself aligned with THE DEATH EATERS. He is currently UNPLAYABLE.

→ OVERVIEW:

Always the life and soul of the room, Caius Burke is from a long line of sorcerers who know that simply to be liked is a very undervalued power. The eldest son of KRATISTA FLINT and EELIS BURKE, Caius was born into a family of great privilege and thus in the best possible position to ascend amongst the wizarding elite residing in London. From the incredibly wealthy and noble house of Flint, his mother Kratista was not overly thrilled at the prospect of becoming a Burke. A woman raised with finery on a sprawling estate which held large dinners and lavish parties, moving into the Burke residence in Bloomsbury was a dark and dismal downgrade. The townhouse stood tall over four floors surrounded by beautiful gardens, but for Kratista it was less than enviable. Whilst Caius’ uncle had kept his mother’s family home to raise his children, his aunt married into the Yaxley family and moved to their estate. His cousins were often said by his mother to have a similar upbringing to that of her own, taking tea and scones in great glasshouses and hosting other families for long weekends. Meanwhile she had been landed with his father whose assets were tied up in a shop in Knockturn Alley she had no love for and was owned by Caius’ grandfather CARATACUS BURKE who refused to sell it or bump out his partner CALLISTHENES BORGIN and thus prevented his mother from living her dream life in the Home Counties.

For Kratistia Burke, Borgin and Burke’s was the chain around her neck she’d been burned with but had taken it on to ensure she was married and children to someone within The Twenty-Eight. But to Caius and his younger sister LYRA, Borgin and Burke’s was their entire world. Whilst most children shied away from things they found strange, he had a fondness for dark objects and odd things just as his grandfather did. Caius liked the grandeur of Borgin and Burke’s. His family were in possession of centuries worth of strange and wonderful pieces of history, each with its own backstory. Whilst his father worked for Borgin and Burke’s in a travelling capacity, scouring the county for new artefacts to bring home to the shop, his mother was doing the rounds of various tea rooms, restaurants and houses rubbing shoulders with important families to ensure her children would make good marriages. It was because of this, Caius and Lyra were often left in the care of their grandfather. Their days were spent on the shop floor and making up scary stories about the things they found there and never failing to get chills when Caratacus and Callisthenes told them the real history behind them. There he and his sister would be each day, their eyes wide and beaming smiles on their faces as they explored the wonders of the shop, marvelling over each new addition and pouting when ones were removed.

It was the time spent in Borgin and Burke’s that ignited a deep love of magical history within Caius and a respect for those that had come before them. His mother had certainly raised him a traditionalist and Caius was incredibly proud and honoured to come from two incredibly important families. Social status certainly mattered to him and from an early age he began to understand the importance of presentation, being well liked and that intelligence, charisma and good connections meant a lot within the circles their family moved. Caius was proud of Borgin and Burke’s and of his grandfather’s achievements, but he had a feeling their family could do more with what they had. Unlike his mother, Caius had little interest in ousting the Borgin family from their shop, it was an important part of Borgin and Burke’s history and with such big dreams and ideas he knew that having help was certainly important. Thankfully, his best friend understood that too. ERIK BORGIN was the great nephew of Callisthenes Borgin and the only person who could continue to run the shop from their family after he passed away. The same age as Caius, the two quickly became close. Erik was like Caius and Lyra. He was strange. He wasn’t frightened by darkness; he was curious about it and had enough charisma to convince other people they should be too.

The three of them fit together perfectly, the next generation of Borgin and Burke’s laughing about the future and concocting great plans as they watched Knocturn Alley bustle below from the windows. Caius knew his and Erik’s talents lied with running the shop. His sister, however was destined for better. Lyra dreamed of adventure and distance between the restrictive arms of their mother, she had always known her own mind and Caius admired her persistence in trying to forge the life she wanted. Whilst Caius was happy for his mother to speak on his behalf and arrange marriage contracts for them both, Lyra despised it. Love meant something more to her than it did for him and Erik. For them their life would be the shop, marriage would be for security and status but Lyra didn’t want that. She was his very best friend and the only person he would willingly face his mother’s wrath for. Leaving Lyra to go to Hogwarts hurt him, but at least he had Erik and they were determined to ensure their presence was known at Hogwarts and amongst the rest of the young members of the wizarding elite. Sorted into Slytherin, Caius felt at home with fellow intelligent folk and natural born leaders. He was every inch the Slytherin, sure of himself willing to do and say anything to win the opinions and favour of others and attracting friendships with incredibly influential figures, LAVENDER BULSTRODE and CORNELIUS CRABBE.

Though he was the head of his small group of Slytherin students, Caius was part of a much wider group he shared with Erik. ANYA ROOKWOOD, LACHLAN MCTAVISH, Caius, Erik, Lavender and Cornelius owned the halls of Hogwarts, garnering a reputation amongst their fellow students of being elitist and pureist. Caius himself, was neither of these things. Erik was a ¼ veela and not from The Sacred Twenty-Eight, though Caius had never viewed him any differently. He didn’t think blood made you better than anyone else, but that was the society they lived in. Caius wanted to be somebody and was he was willing to play the role life had handed him in order to get there. Graduating from Hogwarts a member of The Slug Club, with brilliant grades and important friends, Caius returned home to Borgin and Burke’s to begin his education with his grandfather. For the first few years he lived a double life, spending his days learning about how to identify objects, studying their history and dealing with cursed items, travelling with his father and searching for objects before he was trusted to take the occasional one himself. The other side of his life was rubbing shoulders with the elite under the instruction of his mother. Kratista had big plans for her son and had entered him into a marriage contract with ALECTO CARROW some years ago before her family had lost their fortune.

Now she had designs on someone else she firmly believed was a better match for him. ADRASTIEA GREENGRASS, was a beautiful witch from a very powerful and wealthy family. Though his mother liked the idea of Caius and NARCISSA BLACK, which Caius liked as well, Kratista thought Adrasteia was a good match for him. Adrasteia was certainly beautiful and a handful, which Caius liked, but as a natural flirt with a fondness for forbidden fruit, a certain redhead still held his attention. Alecto Carrow would never bring him any happiness only trouble. But for a young wizard who liked to dance with danger, trouble was exactly what he wanted. It was this same love of darkness and dangerous situations that have resulted in Caius ending up in the midst of a war he has little interest in the cause for. Convinced to start speaking with BELLATRIX BLACK through his close friend RABASTAN LESTRANGE, the pair quickly had their services called upon. Given a list of artefacts including Salazar Slytherin’s Locket, The Sword of Godric Gryffindor, Helga Hufflepuff’s Cup and Merlin’s Book, the boys have been doing their best to track down the objects but have increasingly felt out of their depth. After his cousin ROSALIE FLINT went missing after The Yule Ball, Caius considered the worst and has been doing his best not to put a foot out of line ever since, even if there is an ever growing voice in his head telling him to run for the hills and take Alecto with him.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Blood Status → Pure-Blood

Pronouns → He/Him

Identification → Cis Male

Sexuality  → Up to Roleplayer

Relationship Status → Single

Previous Education →  Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry (Slytherin)

Societies → N/A

Family → Eelis Burke (father), Kratista Burke (mother), Lyra Burke (sister), Caratacus Burke (grandfather/boss), Dionysus Flint (uncle), Lotte Flint (aunt), Decius Flint (cousin), Rosalie Flint (cousin), Elijah Yaxley (uncle), Ismena Yaxley (aunt), Eleanor Yaxley (cousin), Victor Yaxley (cousin)

Connections  → Erik Borgin (best friend/colleague), Lavender Bulstrode (best friend), Cornelius Crabbe (best friend), Anya Rookwood (close friend), Lachlan McTavish (close friend), Rabastan Lestrange (close friend), Walden MacNair (close friend), Christiano Parkinson (close friend), Adrasteia Greengass (friend/potential love interest), Alecto Carrow (friend/potential love interest), Jonathan Reeves (friend), Bellatrix Black (boss)

Future Information → N/A

CAIUS BURKE IS A LEVEL 6 WIZARD.