Chapter 23 - Sebastian

30 June 1892

"Sebastian just stop for a moment and think clearly."

Ominis was sitting on his dormitory bed as Sebastian packed his belongings. He had his mind made up, as persuasive as Ominis could be he was not going to change Sebastian's mind this time.

"Ominis this is something that I need to do. I need you to respect that."

It was a hard decision he had come to. Sebastian didn't want to leave Hogwarts and Ominis. He didn't want to leave...her. The guilt, of killing his uncle Solomon consumed him, even worse was that Anne wasn't responding to any of his letters, he feared that she would never be able to forgive him. He had to make things right, otherwise it all would've been for nothing.

"Sebastian, you're not going to find a cure for Anne. Leaving is the worst thing you could do."

Sebastian slammed his suitcase shut at his words.

"Ominis it's not just about finding a cure for Anne. How do you expect me to continue life as normal now that I have murdered someone? I can't just sit in Charms class and pretend it didn't happen. I appreciate you and Riley not turning me in, but I cannot just put aside what I've done. This is my burden, and I need to atone for my actions. This is the only way I know how."

Ominis was quiet at his words, there was nobody else in their dormitory, most of the students were in the Great Hall saying their farewells before the Hogwarts Express departed later today.

"Where will you go?"

Sebastian sighed and turned to his friend.

"It's better that you don't know mate."

The room went quiet, they both knew the time to say goodbye had finally come.

"For what it's worth, I appreciate you standing by me through all this madness Ominis. You are a true friend. I am sorry for what I have put you through."

Sebastian walked up to him and embraced him in a hug.

"I, uh, Sebastian."

Sebastian smiled at his friend's awkwardness.

"You don't have to say anything mate. I know."

Ominis grunted as they released from their hug, and Sebastian could've sworn he was about to choke up.

"How did Riley take the news?"

Sebastian didn't answer him.

"Sebastian? You have told her?"

He turned and gathered his coat and suitcase.

"It's easier this way Ominis."

Ominis summoned the suitcase and coat so rapidly that Sebastian didn't have time to react.

"If you're so intent on repenting and making things good Sebastian, the least you could do is tell her, she deserves the truth."

Ominis was generally right, but this time Sebastian really wished he wasn't. He hadn't planned on speaking to Riley again, he'd been avoiding her since their last conversation.

When she had told him that it was in fact Victor Rookwood, and not goblins that had cursed Anne, despair swelled inside of Sebastian. He knew that any chance of understanding the curse would've died with Rookwood. His despair was momentarily subdued when Riley told him of the events that unfolded with Ranrok and the repository of power that now rested below the school. Sebastian admitted that it tempted him when Riley told him about it. Perhaps it could heal Anne was his immediate thought. He quickly shook that notion from his mind, he'd already felt guilty for using Riley this past year. The possibility of her ancient magic healing Anne blinded him. It was only after Riley had defended his actions after killing Solomon that he realised how much he had exploited her friendship. She deserved better than that. As a result, he didn't want to confront her about his plan to leave Hogwarts. Selfishly he knew that saying goodbye to her would be the hardest thing he'd have to do.

After Ominis refused to return his belongings until he had spoken with Riley, Sebastian was left with no choice. He made his way to the Great Hall, looking over the crowds for a tall blond-haired girl. Ever since the Troll attack in Hogsmeade Riley had become quite popular among the teachers and students, but she wasn't amongst any of them now. Where could she be? Sebastian instinctively made his way to the library. If she wasn't here, then she had to be in the Undercroft.

As he entered the doors of the library and made his way down the steps, he remembered back to their first late night adventure together in the library. He had snuck into the restricted section of the library plenty of times before, but sneaking in with Riley made him feel exhilarated. He was nervous as he stood on the balcony waiting for her. He figured I'd play it cool leaning up against the railing as he waited for her. When he saw her at the top of the stairs and a smile materialised on her pretty face, he felt butterflies in his stomach. As she approached, he returned a smile of his own, "See there? That's the door we need to reach. We can't let the prefects see us though." He pointed to the library entrance that were being monitored by the prefects. "I can be sneaky. Let's go." Her eagerness made him laugh. "Hold on now."

The memory made him smile as he entered the library searching for her now. He could hear rustling near one of the far corners in the library and made his way there. He crept up quietly and sure enough there was she was, her nose buried in a book. Sebastian took a moment to watch her, he shamelessly gazed at her body as she lightly swayed as she read. There was no denying he was attracted to this girl. Not only was she ambitious, powerful, and quick witted, she had a body that he had fantasised about on more than one occasion. He could've stood there for hours watching her, but he knew that if he didn't do this quickly, it would be impossible for him to leave.

"Riley?"

She jumped in fright as he spoke.

"Sebastian! Don't do that, you scared me! Announce yourself please."

Sebastian suddenly felt terrified, seeing her beautiful blue eyes threw him off guard and he just stood there awkwardly,

"Sorry," was the only word he could manage.

"It's ok. I'm glad to see you. You've been a bit allusive these last few days. I'm worried about you Sebastian."

He tried to speak but standing in front of her now he realised how hard this was going to be. She noticed his hesitation.

"Sebastian I'm here for you. Both Ominis and I are. What you're going through, we will get through it together."

Shit. Her words pierced right through his heart, she knew exactly what he was feeling, and Sebastian could feel the tears building. He quickly shook them off, he needed to be strong for this.

"Riley, I've come to say goodbye."

As he said it, he couldn't look her in the eyes.

"Goodbye? The Hogwarts express doesn't leave for a few more hours, why are you saying goodbye now?"

He couldn't help it, but he had to look at her, he just wanted to look at her face for as long as he could.

"Sebastian?"

Hearing her say his name made his stomach to somersaults. "Riley, you knew this was coming. I'm leaving Hogwarts and I'm not coming back next year."

"What? Why?"

He could hear the hurt in her voice, and it made his heart clench.

"I need some time. I need to deal with all that has happened. I also need to find Anne and truthfully, I have not given up on finding a cure for her."

He could hear her breathing heavy as she spoke.

"Sebastian, have you not learnt your lesson? Look what happened the last time you decided to take matters into your own hands to try to help Anne. I know the knowledge of your sister's curse died with Rookwood, but together we will be able to figure something out. We've not yet explored the possibilities of the ancient magic that I wield."

Her words were filling him with dangerous hope, but he stood firm.

"After everything you told me about the repository, how Isidora ended up removing all emotion as a result of trying to heal people's pain, it's not worth the risk Riley. I will not ask that of you."

"If you just give me some time Sebastian, I'll learn how to heal the physical pain within Anne. Isidora's focus was all based on emotional pain, maybe it will be different with Anne's situation."

The fact that she was even suggesting this only solidified his purpose to leave. He would not exploit her any further. It pained him to see how far she would go, all because of him. Sebastian had used her, and it made him angry, not at her, but at himself.

"That's enough Riley."

She looked stunned at his firmness.

"How can you do this to us? To-" She paused for a moment but continued. "After everything we've been through and after we defended your actions. Now you're just going to leave. Anne doesn't want to be found Sebastian. You leaving Hogwarts is not going to accomplish anything."

He could hear the hurt in her voice changing to anger. This was good. It would be easier this way if she was to hate him.

"Riley, I didn't even want to tell you I was leaving, but Ominis insisted, said it was the right thing to do."

"I see."

Her voice was cold, and Sebastian instinctively moved towards her and grabbed her shoulders.

"Riley this is something that I need to do, alone. I have caused enough pain. I have hurt you enough as it is. I couldn't bear the thought of you pitying me. I need to accept what I've done and make it right. It can't have all been for nothing. I won't achieve that staying at Hogwarts. I don't deserve you or Ominis."

He couldn't help but stare into her eyes, even now with them wet from almost tears, they were captivating.

"Sebastian, please I can't do this without you."

"Riley, you are the most powerful witch I know, even before this ancient magic business. I knew you were special from the start, even more so when you bested me in that duel in Defence against the Dark Arts. You are more capable than you realise."

Sebastian sensed her breathing change with his words.

"Sebastian, I didn't know you were so good at complimenting a lady."

Her smart mouth made him smile. He couldn't help it.

"You'd be surprised my lady, there's quite a few things I'm good at that you don't even know about yet."

Fuck! Why did he just say that? It just slipped out. Sebastian remained silent and found himself taking in all her features. His eyes lingered down to her lips, and he could feel his heartbeat quicken. He'd dreamt of those lips many a time, but having Riley so close to him now, it made him feel hot under the collar. The effect this girl had on him was unbelievable. Before he could withdraw, she had wrapped her fingers around his tie, and he could feel her pulling him in. He caught his own breath. This is not how he planned this afternoon to go. He had kissed many girls before, and he'd been told he was a good kisser. Hell's beard, he had even been with a girl before, but right now, he felt unprepared and suddenly very nervous. Like this was the first of something special. He could feel her breath on his lips she was so close, and he could feel his erection building underneath his trousers. If he kissed this girl now, he won't be able to stop, he thought to himself.

With the last remaining will power he had, Sebastian took control of the situation and pulled her in tightly. He just held her in my arms for that awkward moment. He breathed her in, her hair smelled of freshly baked muffins and vanilla. It felt so good to hold her, he never wanted to let go. But he had to. His heart was beating uncontrollably.

"Riley, I-I can't do this." Sebastian took one last breath, taking in as much of her scent as he could.

"Don't make this harder than it already is." He squeezed her for one last time, "Goodbye Riley" and released her quickly. Sebastian turned away quickly, keeping his eyes shut so that he didn't have to look at her face as he left, also so that he could hide his tears. Sebastian thought to himself, I fucking hate goodbyes.

2 September 1892

After weeks of visiting various dark magic shops throughout London Sebastian was starting to lose hope. He was trying to find something, anything, about the Rookwood family and the curse Victor Rookwood had placed on Anne. He got sick of looking through endless pages of useless information. He had been hopping between cheap and dirty inns the past few weeks.

One night he was browsing through a book he had purchased from Borgin and Burkes and one of the pages described the process of becoming an Animagus. He remembered being taught about Animagi in third year Transfiguration class. Professor Weasley had touched on the subject in theory, but this book had detailed steps on how to become an Animagus.

Sebastian needed a distraction, these past few weeks he had learnt nothing new, and he figured this kind of skill would one day prove to be useful. The process involved carrying a single Mandrake leaf in your mouth for an entire month. If you swallow the leaf or remove it from your mouth at any point, you would have to start the whole thing again. Then you'd have to find a small crystal phial that receives the pure rays of the moon, put your saliva-filled leaf inside, and add one of your own hairs. Then add a silver teaspoon of dew from a place that neither sunlight nor human feet have touched for a full seven days. Then you'd have to add the chrysalis of a Death's-head Hawk Moth to the crystal phial as well. Then put this mixture in a quiet, dark place and leave it alone until the next electrical storm. The process then went on to explain the incantation you'd be required to speak every sunrise and sundown with your wand tip over your heart. Then as soon as lightning appears you would have to go to the place where you've hidden the crystal phial. The potion should be blood red in colour. The final step involved speaking the incantation with your wand tip over your heart once more, followed by drinking the potion.

"Seems simple enough," he exclaimed out loud.

Sebastian had never backed down from a challenge and he wasn't going to start now.

It took him two attempts with the mandrake leaf, that was the hardest part, trying to eat and drink for an entire month with this leaf in your mouth and he accidently swallowed it the first time. Retrieving the remaining ingredients was easy enough as he had come across some interesting shops in Diagonally. After several weeks a thunderstorm brewed in the sky, and Sebastian quickly made his way to where he had hidden the phial. He walked through the abandoned park in the city and found the tree where he had hidden the phial beneath its roots. As he retrieved it a smile escaped his mouth as he saw it was in fact red in colour. He readied himself and placed his wand tip at his heart and recited the incantation.

"Amato Animo Animato Animagus."

Sebastian threw back the potion and drank it in one go. It tasted absolutely disgusting. Before he could even pull a face at the taste, he felt a hot searing pain cut through his chest. He held his balance and eventually felt a double heartbeat within himself. The feeling was weird at first, then it felt natural, as if he had had this second heartbeat all his life.

He could feel his arms extend as Sebastian transformed, it was painful, but ecstasy at the same time. When he opened his eyes, he flapped his wings and rose into the air. He was a majestic eagle, a white-tailed eagle to be precise. Sebastian soared around the park taking in the views and feeling the wind brush through his feathers, the feeling was freeing. He landed back down where he originally took off and willed himself to return into his human form. At first nothing happened, and Sebastian started to panic. He took a deep breath, focused, and visualised his human body. It wasn't easy and he had to concentrate, but eventually he could feel his feathers retract and fingers began to reform. Sebastian now stood there completely naked in the park.

"It worked!" He screamed in delight, not caring that he had no clothes on, after weeks of defeat it felt good to succeed at something.

13 October 1892

After more weeks of practice, Sebastian was able to transform at will into an eagle and back. He had even managed to figure out how to keep his clothes on, which was a big help. He had been writing to Anne constantly throughout this time, but she continued to ignore him.

I haven't given up Anne.

Please send word. I miss you.

Sebastian.

Sebastian decided to travel back to their home in Feldcroft, to see if he would be able to speak to Anne directly. He was getting frustrated with her silent treatment and in all honesty, He missed her. He missed Ominis. He really missed Riley. He decided not to write to her, after their sad goodbye it didn't feel right to give her false hope. Although he didn't send them, Sebastian still wrote a letter to her every week telling her of his research and transformation. It helped keep him sane.

20 October 1892

It was an early morning when Sebastian flew over the familiar region of Feldcroft. The villagers were not yet awake, and it was peaceful. But it didn't feel like home anymore. He was about to land near a hilltop when he saw her.

Riley.

Riley landed gracefully from her broom near the well and made her way towards his old home. She paused for a moment near the path, and he saw her bend down and pick some flowers and place them gently near the side of the house. What was she doing? He couldn't see what she was doing with the flowers from this height, but he didn't want to get too close. She made her way into the house and closed the door behind her. Sebastian just flew in circles around the hamlet, keeping an eye out for when she would return.

What was she doing in his house? Part of him was tempted to swoop down and hug her, but he refrained. The house looked like it hadn't been well kept, which made him think that Anne hadn't returned since her departure.

After a short time, Riley emerged from the house and started walking up the hill towards Isidora Morganach's old home, well what was left of it. Sebastian decided to drop down lower to get a better look at her. Riley was standing on top of the hill that had a view of the entire hamlet. She looked as beautiful as he had remembered, it made his heart ache. He heard her speak out, at first, he thought she had somehow recognised him. Stupid Sebastian. She seemed to speak to herself.

"I forgive you Sebastian. I'll never forget you. I promise you will always hold a special place in my heart, but I have to say goodbye now."

Her words squeezed his heart and Sebastian let out an eagle cry.

She looked up at the eagle and smiled. The village began to stir, and she mounted her broom. Sebastian watched her as she rode off into the sunrise, taking his broken heart with her.

He landed near the rear of his old home so that no one would see him as he transformed back into his human form. He walked around the side of the house and now saw what Riley had done with those flowers. It was Solomon's grave. Anne must've buried him. The thought made him feel even worse, knowing that Anne had to do that on her own, grieve on her own. Sebatian knelt at the grave.

"Uncle Solomon, if you can hear me, wherever you are-" he could feel the tears swelling up. Every emotion that he had been avoiding these past few months swelled up within him. Guilt. Shame. Grief. "I'm-I'm so sorry. I know what I did cannot be undone but know that I will spend the rest of my life trying to make up for it, trying to be a good person." He wiped away the tears and rose to his feet.

"But I meant what I said, I will never give up. I will never stop having hope that one day Anne will live the life she deserves. That's where you and I differed, and all she needed was hope. And so did I. You should've been the person to give us that."

25 December 1892

Having that closure by Solomon's grave gave Sebastian the motivation to continue his purpose. Anne was no longer at Feldcroft, from what he had gathered from the villagers she was staying with some friends. He had to stop being selfish. He couldn't force Anne to forgive him, but spending Christmas without her made him feel more alone than ever. He was staying at an inn within the Clagmar Coast region, and he had decided to drown his sorrows with some firewhiskey. The local barman initially didn't want to offer him some when he saw how young Sebastian was, but something in his face must've resonated with him as he poured Sebastian a large goblet.

"Merry Christmas kid, hang in there."

Apparently only sad, lonely people came to a pub on Christmas day.

Sebastian was about halfway through his drink when he overheard a bunch of rowdy and drunk wizards talking loudly in one of the corners of the pub. They wore black cloaks and were hassling the waitress as she brought them their drinks and it made his blood boil. He had his back to them, but they eventually let her be and they continued their conversation loudly, oblivious of those around them.

"I've heard rumours that that Towe fancies Rookwood, she gets all weak at the knees when he enters the room."

His friends laughed and continued their mocking. The name Rookwood piqued Sebastian's interest. They couldn't be speaking of Victor Rookwood. Riley had said that she defeated him. One of the other wizards who seemed to be more composed than the rest spoke up.

"I think everyone goes weak at the knees when Ulric Rookwood enters the room. I haven't met him but apparently he's more vulgar and frightening than his younger brother ever was."

He was slapped on the back by one of this fellow companions.

"From what I've heard Victor Rookwood was killed by a girl. Let's hope that this brother is more capable, especially if he's our legendary master of The Blackhand."

They all cheered at this and clunked their goblets together.

Sebastian's mind was racing at all the information he had just heard. If this Ulric was Victor Rookwood's brother, perhaps he would know a cure to the curse Victor put on Anne. He didn't sound like the type of man that would willingly help with such a noble cause, in fact, he sounded awful. It was the best lead Sebastian had had in months. He wasn't going to waste this opportunity. He quickly scribbled a letter to Anne.

Anne,

I wanted to wish you a Merry Christmas, and it feels like a Christmas miracle has arrived. I may have finally found the answer. I'm near Clagmar coast, I've met some nasty wizards, but they've given me hope. I will write again soon.

Sebastian

He noticed the wizards finished the last of their drinks and began their exit. He downed the remainder of his own drink, apparently firewhiskey was supposed to give you courage, Merlin knows he needed it for what he was about to do. He folded the letter and tapped the barman on the shoulder.

"Sir, please can you arrange for an owl to deliver this letter? And thanks for the drink!"

The barman took the letter from him and gave Sebastian a swift nod. He quickly made his way out of the inn and wrapped himself in his cloak. Snow had started to fall, and the ground crunched as he walked. He followed the wizards through the village keeping a safe distance. They started to veer from the path and towards the woodlands on the outskirts of the village. They were so drunk they didn't even notice the sound of Sebastian's footsteps following them. He could see firelight up ahead and he crouched down hiding behind the trees. The rowdy group entered an encampment laughing and jesting with each other. Their laughs were quickly silenced by a woman's loud voice.

"FOOLS! Where have you been? We have a very serious matter on our hands. Our master is on his way here, make yourselves presentable at once."

Sebastian crept closer and peeked around one of the trees where he was able to get a better view. There were at least twenty wizards and witches in black cloaks, all wearing black masks in the shape of two hands, standing around a large fire. Some of them looked on edge and as if they had taken a beating. The woman who spoke earlier paced around the fire, her long red air glistened against the fire.

"Madam Towe, why have you summoned our master?"

Towe immediately walked up to the drunk wizard and slapped him so hard the others around him recoiled. Even Sebastian flinched.

"Perhaps if you were at your station rather than drinking with the locals you would be in the know." Suddenly there was a loud popping sound and all of them including Towe bent to their knees. Sebastian peered further around the tree to get a look at who had just Apparated into the camp.

A tall man with short silver hair stood behind the fire, his mask covered his face, but the shadows from the fire flickered across his brow which gave him spine-chilling look.

"Why have I been summoned so urgently Towe? I pray for your sake you have not wasted my time." He spoke with a deep voice that sent chills about Sebastian's spine, his accent sounded Eastern European.

"Master Rookwood, we have news of the Antiqua potentia. We witnessed it firsthand." Towe spoke with a low voice that sounded almost frightened, but she appeared to be in awe of her master.

"Continue." Rookwood's voice was deadly serious.

She rose to her feet as she spoke.

"Near the Forbidden Forest in the Hogwarts region, during one our initiation ceremonies, a young witch demonstrated the power as you have foretold. She killed two of my men with one blast, the rest of us barely escaped. I called upon you as soon as we returned."

Rookwood swiftly approached Town and grabbed her face aggressively in his hand.

"And you let her escape? How mindless are you, Towe? How are we to find her again?"

She whimpered at his question. A much younger wizard slowly raised his hand.

"S-Sir? I know who the girl is. She's a student at Hogwarts, I recognised her. Her name is Riley Dagworth."

Rookwood pushed Towe out of his grasp and walked slowly over to the boy.

"What is your name?"

The boy didn't dare look up but continued to kneel.

"My name is Oliver Wright, I'm the newest member of The Blackhand M-Master."

Rookwood knelt and placed his hand under his chin and made Oliver rise.

"Well done my young recruit. You have proven yourself useful. You are a student at Hogwarts yourself?"

Oliver nodded and Ulric Rookwood let an evil grin expand on his face.

"You will prove yourself once more in helping me retrieve this girl. The ancient magic she possesses will finally be ours."

Panic took over Sebastian's entire body as the scene unfolded before him. All rational thoughts had escaped his mind. Ulric Rookwood was indeed more terrifying than his brother and worse, he wanted Riley. His Riley. Sebastian instinctively started to edge backwards, he had to warn her. Stupidly, Sebastian stood on a twig, and it cracked beneath his foot.

"Intruder!"

He heard Rookwood shout and he immediately turned on the spot and ran as fast as he could. He hadn't managed to get ten metres before he was hit in the back with a blast that knocked him to the ground. Within seconds he was surrounded by The Blackhand, one of them kicked him in the stomach and it winded him so gravely that he was seeing stars. Sebastian felt them grab him by the arms, take his wand and drag him back towards the fire, towards their master. They dropped him at his feet where Sebastian almost coughed up a lung trying to compose his breathing.

"Who are you?" A stern voice. The voice of a monster.

Sebastian looked up at him from the floor and just glared at that masked face. He felt his fist hit his jaw with such force that one of his teeth came loose.

"You will answer me." His voice was unnervingly calm.

"That's Sebastian Sallow, he is also from Hogwarts. He's friends with the Dagworth girl."

Sebastian wanted to punch this Oliver in the groin, because of him Riley was now in danger. Rookwood let out an evil laugh.

"This day just keeps getting better and better. Tie him up in the main tent, we will need him to find out all that we can about this Riley Dagworth. Come Towe, Wright, we have work to do."

16 January 1893

Sebastian didn't know how much time had passed, but it felt never ending. Torture was an understatement. They used the Cruciatus curse on him multiple times a day. He had started to become numb to the feeling eventually. After that, they started using a blade and they would cut him as he hung from a chain. The blade must've been enchanted because the wounds healed quickly, allowing for the loss of blood to be minimal, but the pain continued for days. Sebastian didn't speak a word as they continued to torture him for information about Riley. The only sound that escaped him was his screams. They could do all that they wanted to him. He wasn't going to give them anything. He only prayed that he would eventually die and not have to endure this pain for too long.

"I'll give credit where credit is due, you are strong willed boy."

Ulric Rookwood paced in front of Sebastian as he hung from the chains. He had removed the mask from his face, and Sebastian could see his features now. He had brilliant blue eyes, and his silver hair was well kept, and he had sharp features. The only resemblance to his brother Victor was his mouth.

"My patience is wearing thin. Towe where are we with the Veritaserum? The Imperius curse alone is not going to work on this one." Towe called for one of the members and he entered the tent with a silver potion bottle in hand.

"Here my lord, we've finally managed to obtain the potion you requested." Rookwood grabbed the bottle and shoved it down Sebastian's throat, smothering his nose so that he had to open his mouth to breathe. He could feel the effects of the potion within seconds.

"Imperio."

Rookwood spoke as he aimed the Unforgivable curse at Sebastian, and his head felt heavy, and he felt like he was trying to wake up from a deep sleep.

"Now boy, you are going to answer all of my questions truthfully. Will you obey?"

When he spoke, it didn't even sound like Sebastian's own voice.

"Yes."

As hard as he tried his tongue was now loose, every question they asked he couldn't help but answer. They knew of everything now, from the Repository under the school, to Ranroks attempts at obtaining it, the Keepers, even the details around Victor Rookwood's death. Sebastian felt like a failure.

"My stupid brother. His futile attempts conspiring with the goblins was his downfall. He knew we were descendants of a Keeper, and yet he sought the help of the goblins. Foolish."

Towe seemed like she wanted to ask a question but was hesitant and Rookwood picked up on this. "What is it, Towe?"

Towe bowed before she spoke.

"Forgive me Master, but were you not in contact with your brother before he died? Had we have known he had found a repository of ancient magic beneath your ancestors home we could've sieged it long ago."

Rookwood rolled his eyes at her question.

"Towe I'm starting to question your brain power. Have you wondered why after all these years we have only chosen now to further our search to Britain? I have not seen or spoken to my brother in years. Let's just say we had a little misunderstanding when we were young, and I almost beat my little brother to death. Our father forced us to make the Unbreakable Vow where I had to promise never to see my brother ever again. I left Britain and lived most of my adult life in Russia. Now that Victor is dead there is no risk of me breaking that vow. Finally, I was able to return to my home, but the secrets that lay beneath my ancestor's home were already exploited and looted."

Oliver Wright stood in the corner quietly as Rookwood told his story whilst Towe was capitated with his words.

"I understand Master, but now we have the information we need. This Riley Dagworth is the key, we need to access the repository the boy mentions is below Hogwarts."

"Boy, tell us where the repository is exactly in the school?"

Thank Merlin Riley never told Sebastian where it was, for once ignorance was bliss.

"I do not know, she never told me where exactly where it was. I just know it's beneath Hogwarts."

Rookwood grunted and paced around the room as he thought.

"You, new recruit, come here."

Oliver hurried over knelt before his master.

"I have a plan, and you will be key in making this plan a success."

"Yes Master, I am ready to prove myself to you."

Rookwood had an evil grin on his face. Oh Riley, I am so sorry to have failed you, Sebastian thought to himself. Any hope or strength that he had left in himself started to evaporate. Sebastian's grim thoughts were interrupted by a witch running into the tent.

"Master! A letter was delivered by owl to the boy, here."

Rookwood grabbed the letter and read it to himself.

"It appears as though your sister is wondering why you haven't written to her lately. I'd say you've been a bit tied up."

Rookwood laughed at his own joke and the others followed suite. Anne had finally responded to Sebastian, she hadn't given up on him. It was exactly what Sebastian needed to hear to spark his hope once more.

12 February 1893

"Status report Wright."

Towe and Oliver were in the main tent where Sebastian had been held captive. They decided not to kill him in case he could prove valuable in the future, they barely gave him enough food and water to survive, and his body ached from the relentless beatings the other members would give him when they got bored.

"I've become close with a Poppy Sweeting, one of Riley's close friends. I also managed to follow the Dagworth girl one night where she appeared to be sleepwalking. I followed her beneath the school and to a door that was sealed tight. I have reason to believe this is the entrance to the Map Chamber where the repository is being hidden. I've been unable to open it myself, I believe it can only be opened by Dagworth." Towe gleamed with happiness at his update.

"This is fantastic Wright. Well done. I will write to our Master immediately with the good news."

17 April 1893

The days seemed never ending, Sebastian had no idea how long he had been held captive. Every time Oliver Wright would return from Hogwarts, he would strain his ears trying to hear his latest update. Ulric Rookwood hadn't returned to the encampment since he got his confession out Sebastian, he was relieved, the man terrified him. Most of the time it was Sebastian and Towe alone in the tent. Over time he had picked up that her first name was Elizabeth, but everyone only ever referred to her as Towe. She was a cruel woman who barked orders at the rest of the members, and she was clearly obsessed with Ulric Rookwood. There weren't any more letters from Anne, but there was one from Ominis. Towe read it aloud to him, taunting Sebastian as she did so.

Dear Sebastian,

I'm sorry it's taken me so long to write to you. Anne mentioned she's been worried about you. I'd be lying if I didn't say the same. I miss you, my friend. I hope to hear from you soon.

Ominis

21 April 1893

The weather was starting to feel warmer in the evenings, Sebastian only realised this as he wasn't shaking from the cold as much as he used to. Which only meant that Spring was near, meaning that he had been the Blackhand's prisoner for months. The thought made him feel miserable. He had lost so much weight from the lack of decent food and water, and he could barely stay awake most days. Sebastian almost wished for death once again, but Towe kicked him awake and continued her usual taunts.

"You've received yet another letter, you seem to be quite popular. This one is from the Dagworth girl herself."

At the mention of her name, Sebastian's eyes shot wide open, and he felt more awake than he had in weeks as Towe read the letter aloud.

Sebastian,

Haven't heard from you in a while.

Just wanted to see if you were ok.

Riley

"These friends of yours are quite a nuisance, we cannot raise suspicion of your absence. You need to write back, write as I say Sallow, and don't get any ideas."

Towe released him from his chains. It felt good to hold a quill in his hand again, but Sebastian realised how much strength he had lost these past few months as his hands shook as he wrote.

Dear Riley,

I am very well thank you,

I hope you are enjoying sixth year at Hogwarts.

Give Gaunt my best.

Sebastian

Sebastian had hoped his formalness would make Riley realise something was off, he couldn't write anything more as Towe scanned his letter for any foul play.

13 June 1893

There were no more letters from his friends, evidently, they had given up on him, and he couldn't blame them. Sebastian felt like deserved the punishment he had received these past few months. This was the way to balance the scales and his atonement for killing Solomon. He sat silently in his cage in the corner when he overheard a familiar chilling voice.

"Are you clear on the details of our plan Wright?"

Rookwood had returned to the encampment, and Sebastian could hear Oliver's scared voice respond.

"Yes, my Lord, the explosion is set to go off towards the end of the ball. It will result in enough damage to distract the professors and other students."

Rookwood hummed with excitement, "Excellent, such an explosion would alert the Ministry and the Apparition rules will cease within the Hogwarts grounds. This should give you enough time to lure Riley Dagworth into the Map Chamber. Use the Poppy girl as leverage if you need to."

"We do not know the size of the repository, but if it's anything like the one that was beneath Rookwood castle, you'll be able to Dissapparate with it out of Hogwarts. You are to bring the Dagworth girl with you, unharmed. I have other plans for her."

His words made Sebastian's skin crawl, he didn't want to imagine what Rookwoods plans for Riley were. Towe shuffled nervously as he spoke.

"My Lord, if I may, with the Apparition rules ceasing would it not be better suited if I retrieved the repository directly. Surely someone with more skill and knowledge should be tasked with this responsibility."

Rookwood grunted in frustration.

"Towe you are always so eager to please, but we cannot risk blowing our cover with the Ministry. The task is simple enough. From what the Sallow boy has described, Riley will do anything to protect the ones she cares about. Wright, as I've said before, use any means necessary to achieve our goal."

Sebastian groaned in frustration, he felt so useless sitting there in chains, unable to help his friends. They were in danger, and it was all because of him.

"Towe, make sure the Sallow boy gets a good beating before Wright returns with the girl. We'll need him look extra vulnerable for when she arrives."

Towe let out a small giggle as she spoke, "With pleasure my Lord."

Towe approached and opened his cage, dragging Sebastian out by his chains. She used her wand to hitch the chains up to the tent rafters so that he was dangling above the floor.

"Notify me as soon as Wright returns with the repository and the girl. I will be at our base camp ensuring all the necessary preparations for the ceremony are ready."

Sebastian didn't have time to watch as Rookwood Dissapparated from the tent, as his eyes closed shut as he felt the familiar cut of a blade across his torso, accompanied with the hot searing pain that always followed. He could feel the blood trickling down his body and pooling at his feet. The wound healed moments later and Towe continued with her torture. "I'm going to miss our time together once we dispose of you Sallow."

14 June 1893

It was by far the worst night of Sebastian's life. Towe didn't hold back on the torture, and he had never felt so broken. She continued her torture until the early hours of the morning, eventually she ceased to take a break and Sebastian heard her leave the tent. Tears streaked down his face and his mouth felt so dry that he could feel his lips cracking. He eventually passed out from exhaustion.

Sebastian woke hours later hearing the Blackhand talking outside the tent in nervous tones.

"Madam Towe, any word from our newest recruit? Surely, he should've returned by now?"

He could hear a large fire crackling outside.

"Oliver Wright has likely failed us. You two, head back to the Ministry and find out what you can. I must return to our Master, he will be disappointed to hear of our failure. He will guide us in our next steps. Watch over the prisoner, when I return, we shall move on from this place."

Sebastian heard a popping sound and then silence.

Hope. Something that he thought would've escaped him by now, but if Riley wasn't here, she was safe. His mind started to play tricks on him as he hung in his chains. He saw Riley standing before him, her face beautiful as ever. This is it. Death has finally come. Sebastian thought to himself, but then he felt soft hands on his face and a familiar voice.

"I'm here Sebastian."

His mouth gaped open at her.

She was here.

"Let's get you out of these chains."

He felt so dazed after being chained up for so long, he could barely stand. He heard Riley muttering that he was heavy and that he needed to help her. Sebastian struggled to his feet, leaning heavily on her, his breathing felt tight in his chest. He felt dizzy as they walked, his vision was blurry, but he could sense that Riley was leading them out of the camp. He had no idea how she managed to get past The Blackhand members or where they were heading now.

They made their way through the woodlands, and Sebastian was trying his best to keep his balance, he could feel Riley's hand around his waist as we walked, even in his current state, her touch made his skin tingle. They were now near the outskirts of the woodlands and Riley slowly lowered him down onto the grass nearby a path. Sebastian rested against a boulder and saw her looking back at the woods. Why had they stopped? What was she looking for?

Sebastian was about to say something to her when a huge explosion went off in the woods. The sound echoed through the trees, and he could see smoke rising above them.

"Ominis!"

Riley screamed and Sebastian realised then that she wasn't alone. His friend was here too, and he was in trouble. A few moments later Ominis came running through the woodlands straight towards them with a look of terror on his face. What shocked Sebastian was the colour of his eyes, no longer their usual the glossy grey, but now bright emerald-green, glistening with fear.

"Riley! Run!"

Behind Ominis, Sebastian could see two members of The Blackhand chasing after him aiming their curses at him.

"Get back here! You will answer to our master!"

Riley just stared at the situation in panic. Sebastian wanted to help, but he had little strength left, he didn't even have his wand.

"Run!"

Ominis repeated his order at Riley, before he dodged a curse and tripped falling onto the ground a few feet from us. The wizards approached them slowly and they ceased their curses as they stared at Riley.

"You are the one we have been searching for. Come with us now and we will not harm your friends."

Ominis was still lying on the ground, slightly dazed from his fall.

"You're in no position to be making threats of those kind."

They laughed as Riley spoke, but then the air went still and quiet, interrupted with their choking sounds. The wizards clutched at their throats as if some invisible force was strangling them. It took Sebastian a few seconds to realise that invisible force was Riley. Her fists were clenched, and she never took her eyes off them as they were gasping for air. She seemed to be triggered by their sounds and they dropped to their knees as their faces started to drain of colour. Sebastian knew this scenario all too well, and he couldn't let Riley do this. Not that he had any care for these dark wizards, but he cared for Riley, and he knew what it meant to take a life and the remorse that followed. Sebastain struggled to his feet, leaning on the boulder, and he managed to take a small step towards her.

"Riley ..." his voice was hoarse and barely a whisper.

She turned to face him, her eyes were no longer that brilliant blue, but were blazing red and anger was etched in her face. Sebastian didn't look away, somewhere behind that cruel look was the girl he knew. The girl he cared for. The girl he knew he had fallen in love with.

Sebastian held his hand out to her. She stared at him for a moment, but then released her clenched fists and the redness disappeared from her eyes. The cruelness had melted away and a look of guilt had formed instead. She turned back to the wizards who were now breathing in heavily having their airflow restored.

"Leave now. Don't ever return."

They hurried off in a scurry and disappeared into the woodlands. Sebastian dropped his hand and just looked at Riley, the air was quiet, and they were both silent. The silence was broken by Ominis as he grunted, raising himself from the floor. Sebastian tore his eyes away from Riley and focused on his friend as he approached him, as he looked at him. Sebastian's mouth dropped as Ominis' eyes took him in. Before he could say anything Ominis placed a cloak over his naked torso.

"We've got a lot to catch-up on."

They embraced in a hug and if he had had more energy Sebastian would've replied with a snarky comment, "You don't say."

Ominis then looked back to Riley.

"We need to leave, in case they come back with reinforcements."

He gestured his hand to Riley, she didn't look up at Sebastian as she joined them, her eyes steady on the ground. Ominis grabbed both their hands.

"Take a deep breath you two."

Ominis Dissapparated all three of them and the world was spinning. Just as Sebastian thought he would throw up from the spinning notion, they landed with a hard thud. The nausea didn't stop, and he lurched forward onto his hands and knees as he spewed all over the ground. Sebastian could feel Ominis patting his back as he spoke.

"Riley, can you setup the protective charms? I'll get the tent unpacked and get Sebastian tidied up. We'll need to use some of those Wiggenweld potions for him."

Riley appeared to make a perimeter border around them with her charms and Ominis setup a tent, but before Sebastian could look back at Riley, he had ushered him inside. Ominis led Sebastian towards one a bed and helped him lay down.

"I'm just going to check your injuries Sebastian, lie still."

He could feel Ominis using his wand to heal some of the cuts, and he made him drink three bottles of Wiggenweld potion. Although the injuries had started to heal, Sebastian still felt exhausted, and he could feel his eyelids getting heavy as Ominis cleaned him up with a washcloth.

"Thank you mate," was all Sebastian could manage to utter before sleep eventually claimed him.

It was the most restful sleep Sebastian had had in months, and he dreamt of one person only, with blue eyes peering into his damaged soul.