Hadrian ventured slowly into the Astronomy tower, Orion was sitting there, a pensive look upon his face, which became guarded the second he realized he wasn't alone. Orion had barely spoken to him this past few weeks, and Hadrian actually missed their usual banter. He'd known the Black heir would be upset, but this upset? Honestly, why did these pureblood's assume women were so weak? Especially after seeing the girls win the majority of the duels they had with the others, they'd proven how good they were. Just as Hadrian had known they would, they wanted to show the world what they could do, and they were definitely going to set out to do it. Perhaps even open the gateway to allowing women to have careers and families.
"Alright, let it rip, I won't hold anything against you," Hadrian said, knowing Orion probably wanted to call him all the names under the sun.
"How could you let them participate?" Orion asked, his tone calm – much to Hadrian's surprise – as he turned to stare at Hadrian with an accusing look upon his face.
"First tell me why…why you're truly against them coming with us," Hadrian counter questioned.
"It's my job to keep them safe," Orion pressed out through gritted teeth, it had been drummed into him from childhood, protect them, keep them safe, don't let anyone take advantage of them.
"That's a lot to put on someone's shoulders, especially considering they're the same age as you," Hadrian said, if that was something demanded of the heirs no wonder Sirius had found it too much. He could only imagine how difficult it was to try and look after Narcissa, Andromeda and Bellatrix for Merlin's sake. "Do you want to see them happy?"
"Of course I do!" Orion protested, "They need to be alive to be happy!"
Hadrian sighed, "So you honestly believe they cannot hold their own? If they cannot none of you can, should I just call this whole thing off and go alone with Tom?"
"Merlin, no," Orion objected, the others would kill him if he let something like that happen, they were all up for this battle, fired up and raring to go. In truth he had been as well, still was, but it was shadowed by the fact his sister, intended and cousin were all being pulled into this – potentially of course – there was no guarantee they'd be chosen. "Please, please just don't choose them when we get there,"
"Orion…do you even know what the girls were planning to do?" Hadrian enquired, leaning his legs over the railing, letting them dangle around. "To try and get attention on themselves other than the witches who would bring more alliances to the Black family?"
Orion stiffened, understanding the implication behind those words immediately, perhaps Hadrian hadn't done this to solely piss him off. "What do you mean?" wishing to know more. It was his job to know everything about them, how could Hadrian know something he didn't? Unless, the girls had been very careful not to arouse suspicion, which if Hadrian was truthful, they had most definitely done.
"You don't want to know, this way it can be accomplished in a safe manner, with everyone there to protect them. They want to be seen as more than just witches, more than just potential mothers to future heirs, and honestly I can't blame them. You know Britain doesn't accept witches into the Auror forces, but America does, they're more progressive." They work twice as hard just to prove themselves too, and didn't get as half as many chances as the wizards to demonstrate it either. Hell in the end, they're too proud to ask for help, instead endured because its what was expected of them, like Eileen Prince. He wanted to make changes, and this was the start of those changes. He refused to let witches be treated as lesser beings because they were born girls. He didn't know how many witches he'd treated for suspicious injuries, Merlin help him but he couldn't let it continue.
Orion should have guessed Hadrian had more than just one reason behind what he did. He always, always worked that way, even if he didn't approve…he was still going out of his way to protect the people in his life that he loved. Whatever the girls were up to…they could have ended up hurt or worse killed under his watch. It was true enough, they could watch over them, make sure nothing happened. Hadrian had always gone out of his way to be kind to them, to include them somewhat, never to this extent though.
"Together…Orion, we can do this without losing anyone, lose that worry and fear or you will be left behind," Hadrian warned sternly, as he stood up, ready to get to his classes for the day. "I won't lose you or anyone else because they're distracted and constantly looking out for the girls who are more than capable. So you have a choice to make, choose wisely, because you're one of the best players." With that he made his way to the door of the astronomy tower, and glanced back briefly, giving him some parting words.
"For what it's worth Orion…I respect your protective tendencies, I, too, am like that about people I care for,"
Orion groaned dramatically, brilliant, now he was being threatened with being left behind because he was worried. Then only to have Hadrian tell him he respected that about him…honestly, what was he supposed to do? He was a mass of contradictions, but that was nothing new, it was as if his mind was decades ahead of its time. Sighing resignedly, he scooped up his bag and wandered out of the astronomy tower, hastening his speed to catch up with Hadrian.
"I'll try my best," Orion said after he caught up with him.
"I know, and you'll succeed, you're brilliant Orion…any kid of yours will be too," Hadrian informed him seriously, and it was true, both Regulus and Sirius were brilliant. "What was that grimace all about?" stopping to a halt at the top of the stairs, confused by Orion's reaction, had he not wanted kids? Was that why he was such a shit parent? If he was even a shit parent, Sirius had been a teenager and they were known for overreactions. He'd probably just wanted more from Sirius than he was capable of giving, just like Orion had too much on his shoulders. Kids should have the chance to be kids.
"After the books you've released…I'm not sure if I want to risk it," Orion declared steadily, which was the truth, he didn't want a squib or deformed kid, and he and Walburga were too closely related that it is entirely possible. It explained so much though, about the family and their problems. He had an aunt who was completely insane, she was kept a closely guarded secret, kept out of the wizarding community, lived in a beautiful house, with caretakers all around the clock. She was still a Black regardless of her mental state.
"Oh," Hadrian murmured, fear flashing through him like a tidal wave, his heart pounding dangerously fast. What the hell had he done? He couldn't let Sirius and Regulus be wiped out of existence! He would be pressured to have an heir but perhaps not…he wasn't the only Black male heir there were many others who could take up the mantel after him. It wasn't a big concern, the Black family was expansive in this time. "I suppose you have a point," unable to say otherwise, it wasn't as if he could tell Orion his kids would be quite powerful, smart and just like the rest of Black's now could he? "How does Walburga feel?" praying she wanted kids enough to risk it, Orion would give her whatever she wanted, whenever she wanted. They began to walk down the steps, Hadrian listening intently for Orion's reply.
"She wants at least two kids," Orion grumbled, "More if they don't turn out to be boys,"
Hadrian's lips twitched, hence why they actually had two, despite this being an arranged marriage, it seemed as if Orion truly loved Walburga. What had happened to make her so…ill-mannered and quite frankly repulsive? Had the loss of Orion and her kids made her that way? She'd been alone in every sense of the word when she died, the Black line having died with her. Orion died if he remembered correctly while Sirius was in Azkaban. He knew what loss did to people, and someone so proud of their lineage, especially the Blacks…it would have been devastating. For the first time, Hadrian began to see things from Walburga's point of view, and felt sympathy for the woman in the portrait.
This would not happen this time around, she might lose her husband, yes, but she would never be alone.
"I'd give her what she wants," Hadrian teased, "Otherwise she'll make your life a living hell,"
Orion barked out that familiar bark of laughter, something Sirius had done often, it was nice to know it wasn't solely down to his animagus form, he'd picked it up from his father. "Don't I know it," he drawled, ruefully shaking his head. Turning the corner heading towards the DADA classroom, which was their first class for the day.
"We good?" Hadrian asked, and he truly wanted them to be, and wasn't that a shock? Not really, not anymore, he had come to accept his sheer happiness at having genuine friends. Perhaps the hat had known what it was talking about during his sorting, would this be what would have come of him? or would his life been hellish in Slytherin because of who he was and 'what he'd done' at least what the world believed he had done at any rate.
"Yeah, we're good," Orion declared strongly, shoulder bumping Hadrian's as they entered the classroom, immediately moving towards their respective partners for this particular class.
Tom arched an eyebrow as Hadrian approached, not having to speak for Hadrian to understand what he wanted.
A single nod stated all was well again within the ranks.
Tom seemed satisfied with the answer, and before another word could be spoken, their professor made an appearance. Merrythought was a competent teacher, well, more than competent when compared to Hadrian's previous teachers that's for damn certain.
The register was quickly complete, the professor swiftly getting it out of the way, before putting it down on the table.
"Can anyone give me a description of dark magic and its properties?" Merrythought asked, sitting on the edge of her table, staring her students down, waiting for someone to raise their hands to answer her question. This class was very pro-active, and she liked that about the students, especially the eloquent answers she received from the Slytherins.
Immediately nearly everyone raised their hands, "Yes, Mr. Potter?"
Hadrian bit his tongue to stop himself from answering, vividly reminding himself yet again he wasn't Mr. Potter here. It was automatic to want to answer, he'd gone his whole life being referred to as Mr. Potter after all. Instinct one might even day at the end of the day. Even after being called Mr. Peverell-Slytherin nearly all the time now.
"Dark magic is evil, addictive and should be banned," he declared strongly.
"Many would strongly disagree with that statement, Mr. Potter," Merrythought stated, not giving her own thoughts and feelings away regarding her own feelings on such magic. "Mr. Peverell-Slytherin?" quite eager to hear his opinion.
"The Dark Arts are many, varied, ever-changing, and eternal. Fighting them is like fighting a many-Headed-Monster, which, each time a neck is severed, sprouts a head even fiercer and cleverer than before. You are fighting that which is unfixed, mutating, indestructible." Hadrian said passionately, just as passionately as the wizard who had echoed the words before him. "The Dark Arts, also known as Dark Magic, refers to any type of magic that is mainly used to cause harm, control, or even death to the victim. Despite being labelled dark, the Dark Arts are not evil many of the labelled 'Dark' spells can actually save lives." Labelled as such by the Ministry of magic, and it caused more harm than good.
Merrythought nodded in pride, she wouldn't have been surprised if the young man had shared Mr. Potter's belief. After all, she had seen the results of the attack, both after the fact it happened and in the newspapers later. He had been savagely attacked, against wizards who used magic for horrible reasons. Yet here he sat, with an objective view, clearly not prejudice against magic while Mr. Potter grew up in the magical world and was prejudice against certain magics.
Merrythought pointed towards Tom, eager to hear what he had to say about this particular subject, "The Dark Arts encompass many spells and actions ranging from the powerful Unforgivable Curses to brewing harmful or Poisonous potions to breeding Dark creatures such as Basilisks, Dementors or Inferi, and its practise is often illegal or at least discouraged. Practitioners are referred to as Dark Wizards or Witches, the most prominent and powerful of whom is Gellert Grindelwald and his fanatics,"
"Mr. Prewitt," Merrythought requested another Gryffindor for their opinion, wondering again if it would be the same as Mr. Potter.
"The Dark Arts are generally regarded as corrupting to those who use them which is part of the reason they are considered dark. After engaging in them extensively for many years appearances can demonstrate corruption — losing former handsomeness, eventually becoming disfigured. This suggests that using very dark magic, such as the Killing Curse, damages an individual's soul." Prewitt's tone suggested he had heard it before from someone.
Hadrian shivered at the mere words, too much like Dumbledore's for comfort. He blurted out a statement unable to help himself, "Powerful dark spells also require malicious intent in order to be successful according to everything I've read. To cast the Cruciatus Curse, for instance, one must truly desire to cause pain in and of itself. The Dark Arts can also be difficult to control another reason they are deemed 'dark'. Injuries caused by dark magic sometimes never fully heal." Hadrian added, " Some curses can remain in one's genes, being passed down through generations as recessive, or can remerge in a descendant that could lead to frail health." The Greengrass girls were proof of that, if he remembered correctly, who knew what in the newspaper was truth or just malicious rumour.
"Using the Dark Arts in an act of true mercy in and of itself also contradicts everything stated about Dark magic." Tom added, on a roll.
"At the same time, dark magic is not the only type of magic that can be used with the intent to kill. For example, the Severing Charm can kill if used irresponsibly. The tripping jinx, the levitation charm, all can kill if used irresponsibly." Hadrian finished.
Merrythought and the rest of the class ping-ponged between Hadrian and Tom clearly listening and soaking up everything they were saying.
"Also the Aurors are allowed to use 'Dark magic' that is so forbidden during times of war, such as now," Tom added silkily, "You don't see the Aurors going rogue now do we? Which means Dark magic can be used and can be controlled, it's the weaker wizards that give the Dark Arts it's reputation by being unable to curb their own emotions." Tom added not to be outdone, a smug smirk tugging at his lips.
Hadrian snorted quietly, at that statement, before adding, "Dark Arts isn't just confined to spells, but there are potions out there that are considered 'Dark Art's' as well,"
"We use the 'Dark Art's' in every day life without even realizing it, the Black Quill is concerned Dark Magic and yet it's used to sign important documents at Gringotts and in the Ministry itself." Tom said.
Hadrian grinned wryly, nodding his mock defeat, it had been ages since they'd debated like this, if it could be considered debating. Although, truthfully he could have continued, begun speaking about the so called 'dark creatures' which wasn't at all that bad in this time, no it was fifty times worse in his time. He wasn't going to call attention to it, hell no, he wasn't going to make things worse for the creatures. As soon as he and Tom had control over the magical world…then he could relax a little and not be so worried since he would never let the legislations pass that had occurred in his timeline. Werewolves had the worst of it, and quite frankly it infuriated him. Those considered the 'Living dead', vampires, were barely seen in the magical world due to how severe the prejudice was.
"All very good points," Merrythought replied.
"What about your opinion, Professor?" Hadrian asked, deeply curious about that.
"My opinion has no bearings in this class, instead this allows preconceived notions be seen in a new light, to allow others to see someone else's point of view and perhaps adapt it. it is my opinion that many people are prejudice towards the subject simply because they have a…relative and they've simply copied them without truly realising how broad the subject is and how diverse." Merrythought explained.
Hadrian's lips twitched, she'd given him an answer in a round about way, he wondered if it was on purpose or purely accidental. 'prejudice' gave away her feelings on the subject quite clearly.
"Now…what is said to be the Darkest of Arts?" Merrythought asked, getting the class back on track.
"Killing Curse,"
"The Unforgivables!" was echoed by most of the Gryffindors, as they all called out their guesses.
"Necromancy," every single Slytherin stated with firmness, assuredly knowing they were quite correct.
"Quite correct, three points to each of you who called out Necromancy," Merrythought nodded, "And ten points to Mr. Peverell-Slytherin's each for your superb conclusion of the Dark Arts," she added before she forgot.
"Thank you, Professor," Hadrian replied for both him and Tom who just gave Merrythought a charming smile. He'd certainly bloody charmed the pants of him a few times he thought wryly.
Tom coughed to hide his bubble of laughter at Hadrian's thoughts which had come through to link to him.
He couldn't be seen laughing after all, especially at nothing, it was very unbecoming.
"Necromancy is the art of raising the dead. It's the source of the Inferi and charmed skeletons," Merrythought explained, "Can anyone tell me what is wrong with this particular branch of magic?"
Hands were once again immediately raised.
"Yes, Dorea?" Merrythought pointed towards her, there were three Miss Black's in the class, so she couldn't use her name without causing considerable confusion as to whom she was calling upon.
"They're mindless creatures with no soul or intelligence despite them possessing human bodies," Dorea explained concisely. "Why is why they are mindless drones who do as directed by the one who created them. Slaves to their Master's wills."
"Five points to Slytherin, well concluded," Merrythought replied proudly, "Yes, despite being raised from the dead, they are no longer the person they once were. Their souls have already vacated their body the moment of death, and thus it's just a reanimated corpse."
"Nobody quite knows who the creator of such spells were, but we can deduce why they were," Merrythought said, with a simple sad smile, well, perhaps the students couldn't comprehend the depth some people would go to in order to have their loved ones back. They would one day, and she prayed they were strong enough to overcome their grief and it didn't change them so fundamentally. "Now homework…" ignoring the dramatic groans from her students as she always did.
"I want you to pick a creature, a spell and a potion that is concerned 'Dark' and give me a detailed conclusion of why it's dark, why its uses could be used for 'good' and more importantly why the creature is on the list and its 'good' attributes if you can think of any. The homework will be due in in exactly two weeks," Merrythought stated, nodding in approval as they begun to write down their Defence homework in their planners. Good, they knew the consequences of missing any homework when it came to her, and it wasn't just loss of house points. She took her job very seriously to ensure that the students left Hogwarts able to adequately defend themselves.
"More homework," Avery sighed, it never ended they'd just finished the next round along with strategically timed training.
"It will only get worse next year," Hadrian sighed, leaning back in contemplation.
"Tomorrow is Halloween, are you going to have a party at the manor?" Nott questioned, they didn't get to attend many without adults being there to spoil the fun. A party would take Hadrian's mind of whatever bothered him during this time of the year. Quite frankly it was depressing how quiet and contemplative Hadrian got. Sure, he was quite when he was working on something…but the sort of quiet he got around Halloween was completely different.
"You just want a day off," Dolohov scoffed, "But it is a good idea," he grudgingly acknowledged, he could use some time off, away from Hogwarts and everything else they were doing.
"That sounds like fun!" Lucretia commented from behind them. "How about we partake in a ritual? It's been so long since we did one as a family." With them being at Hogwarts they hadn't been doing the ritual with the family, not that they could boast about it, it was growing considered 'dark' by the majority of the people within the wizarding community, except for the pureblood's who refused to pander to the half-blood's and such who felt uncomfortable with the Celtic celebrations.
"We can plan one for next year," Tom spoke up, knowing exactly why Hadrian's moods were so down during Halloween, something always happened, even here. The damn cub Hagrid had brought to Hogwarts had attacked him, presumably because it was starving and Hagrid wasn't giving it the food it needed. Either that or it was just reacting like all wild animals did.
His statement was met with silence, nobody argued with him.
"Actually, I'd like to do it, the ritual that is," Hadrian said after a few moments of silence. New start, new life, he couldn't keep dwelling on the past, and if he had something to do it would take his mind off it. Plus, it wasn't as if it was going to happen anyway, Tom wouldn't attack the Potters he'd have no reason. "I'd need to inform the House-Elves to set everything up, they'll be pleased," having anything to do other than their mundane every day tasks would be a break from the monotony.
Everyone around him rolled their eyes at his comment, they were still not used to the fact he cared about his House-elves.
"Yes!" Lucretia crowed happily, "Can we invite others to join us?" by others she meant those who weren't in Slytherin.
Hadrian and Tom glanced at each other, a silent sort of contemplation on their faces, eventually Hadrian shrugged, he wasn't fussed either way. "Sure, I'll bring Myrtle, it's been ages since we actually spoke," and that made him feel guilty, after all he'd been so into his potions, research, his books and schoolwork that he had neglected his friendship with Myrtle, who was, probably same as him, making sure to keep her course work done. She wanted to work in the Ministry of magic, quite high up too, so she had to ensure her grades were exemplary to get a chance.
"Those who understand, only," Tom retorted seriously, he didn't want word getting out that they were doing the rituals, especially not to the general public, they would make it seem something sordid and dirty, not reverential like it actually was.
"After my healing class I'll forewarn the House-elves then, we'll go at around nine, after the professors have done their rounds, we'll probably be back around one o'clock in the morning so give them heads up," Hadrian added, "We will be back to classes the next day, and everyone will probably be exhausted and hungover."
"Yes!" Orion hissed happily, glad they were going to be able to drink and it wasn't going to be just pumpkin juice and a weak punch being served.
"Something you wish to tell the class?" Merrythought questioned, cutting through the simmering excitement they were all sharing.
"No, Professor, Sorry," they echoed together, putting their heads back down, concentrating on their class still grinning from ear to ear.
And with that they remained silent throughout the rest of Merrythoughts lecture, writing the information down when directed. It seemed as though they wouldn't be having a practical class like promised but none of them cared overly much. It was a fascinating subject, and she made a rousing lecture. It was clear to see she was passionate about the subject, which made her a good teacher.
That wasn't always the case though, Severus Snape had been passionate (or should he say had has been will be?) about potions and he had been a horrifically irascible teacher. Completely diminishing peoples own passion for the art of potion brewing. Speaking of which, Merlin, Hadrian hoped that his Professor was still born in this timeline. Which would be when? A few years? Eileen married Tobias Snape right out of Hogwarts and had him quite quickly. Same as many others actually, Charles too, would have James Potter, his father.
They would live to see James graduate and marry Lily but not long enough to meet their grandson, they died of Dragon Pox in their old age. Something Hadrian actually hoped to change, for both his 'grandparents' and Abraxas since he was a victim of it as well. They had been good people, taking in Sirius as a second son when he split from his family. Probably due to Dorea having been married into the family as well and family meant everything to quite a lot of the pureblood population.
'The bell is about to go' Tom commented, seeing that Hadrian was a bit too lost in his own thoughts, he had even stopped writing down the lecture information. He wondered where he had drifted off to, Halloween and who he would have become? Remembering something else insignificant? Dwelling on things he was changing and wasn't going to be able to undo?
Hadrian came to, staring at Tom bewildered before quickly scooping up his work, and shoving it into his bag as the bell went.
Time to get to the healing class.
"Are you alright?" Tom asked, after grasping a hold of his arm, staring at him in concern.
"I'm fine, honestly, just thinking about a few things," Hadrian said giving him a reassuring twitch of his lips.
"Okay, I'll see you in the Great Hall, later," Tom replied, he knew Hadrian didn't lie to him, they didn't lie to each other. They had no need to do such a thing, they knew everything about each other, and that was what made their relationship – their marriage – so strong despite their young age. That and Tom's possessiveness, which he hadn't known could run towards love and affection, instead of just a possessiveness of declaring someone his, without feelings getting involved like he had with the others when he first begun his mission of taking over Slytherin.
"Yeah," Hadrian murmured his agreement, squeezing Tom's hand in goodbye before they went in separate ways for their next classes. Tom hadn't taken healing while Hadrian had. After so much destruction, he had wanted to know how to make things better, and he was succeeding just like he always did in everything he did. He made a mental note to copy Tom's work that he'd missed with his errant thoughts.
---------0
Samhain the next day – Peverell-Slytherin Manor
Hadrian cleared his throat, gathering everyone's attention, as they looked around, many had not been to Peverell manor yet. They had all been Portkey'd through the wards, and were only guests in the manor which means they couldn't go where they pleased. Which is something they would find out soon enough. The smell of food was wafting in the air, all of them had refrained from eating overly much wishing to enjoy a Samhain feast. "I'd like you to meet Selene, she will be here all evening, and if anyone wishes to have their fortune told, Tarots, a séance, what have you, she will give you a reading in private,"
Everyone glanced at her, you wouldn't have thought she was into the whole divination thing, she wasn't like their teacher at Hogwarts at all. Long black hair tied back, tidy appearance with a cloak set over her shoulders. She gave them all a small smile and nod before she disappeared into the grand hall they'd be using for tonight.
"You hired someone for this evening?" Tom asked, sounding amused.
"I did," Hadrian replied, shrugging his shoulders, "Might as well go all out, it's what people normally do anyway, do a séance, speak to the dead," it was the feast of the dead after all. The only thing they couldn't do was celebrate the length of time the pagans usually do. Which would have seen it ending just before midnight on November the first. He'd paid a woman to do something he could do himself, with the resurrection stone, it was hardly surprising that Tom was amused.
"Oh, of course," Tom agreed wryly.
Sharing a secretive smirk, Hadrian turned back to everyone, "The first thing we will do is light candles for those we've lost, then we shall go out to the bonfire and make an effigy of your choosing before dinner. Is there anyone here who isn't familiar with the Pagan rituals? Speak now so you can be informed instead of ill-informed and feeling stupid," he could hear Myrtle cackling over everyone's smothered sniggers. "Alright, let's go!" he called, leading everyone towards the room he'd requested set up with an abundance of white – seven day – candles so everyone could light one in memory of whom they've lost if they've lost anyone. The House-elves would ensure the manor didn't burn down but also make sure they remained burning brightly until the seven days were done.
"O little flame that burns so bright, be a beacon on this night. Light the path for all the dead, that they may see now what's ahead. And lead them to the Summerland and shine until Pan takes their hands. And with Your light, please bring them peace, that they may rest and sleep with ease." Hadrian murmured softly, he could hear the others also chanting out their own words, some repeated the same as him, while others used their own variations. He had nobody to really mourn, nobody he knew was dead, and never would be.
Unlike everyone else's ritual, Hadrian, as Master Of Death…actually eased the passing of the souls that Death collected on this day.
Tom lit the candle with his wand, before immediately stepping away, his mind reflecting his mother for some strange reason. He didn't know her, hardly cared, but the thoughts Hadrian had shared with him…about how she had protected him the best way she knew. Dying and enacting a protection rather than letting the Gaunts' know his existence. Protection that had imbued itself within the walls of the orphanage. Shaking off his thoughts, refusing to dwell on them. He wasn't that confused little boy anymore.
"Did you finish the new spell you were trying to create?" Hadrian asked curiously, he hadn't asked about Tom's ventures in a few days. The only difference between what he came up with and what Tom came up with…his were fit for publication. Most of Tom's ideas were on the darker side, so they'd never see the light of day. Not if he wanted to become the Minister for magic at any rate, so they'd always be kept private.
"I did, it works perfectly," Tom said smugly, it would be so easy to poison someone in the room without ever going near them or using a House-elf. He had perfected it to go to a certain person, only inanimate objects before he'd perfected it had been the sole purpose of the spell. Now he could have whatever he pleased spelled into his wand then transferred Wandlessly to his designated say goblet or food.
"Do you want to publish that one?" Hadrian asked, as they began to leave the room, leaving the others to converse quietly with who they were remembering.
"No," Tom replied instantly.
Hadrian grinned in amusement, green eyes sparkling, he'd suspected as much, Tom like Severus had both been possessive of the spells they created, refusing to publish them. Desiring to keep them for themselves, to use them as they so want without anyone knowing a damn thing about them. Admittedly he had a few of his own, and Severus' spells too, although one was now known in the inner circle, it was much too handy to have to keep to themselves, especially during war. "Yeah, I suspected that would be your answer,"
"Hadrian this is amazing! The Altar is…breath-taking!" Myrtle exclaimed, her newest boyfriend Stephen Selwyn nodded in agreement. Stephen was very quiet, even in classes, very different from Myrtle who turned into a right chatterbox when you got to know her. A fearless chatterbox, who said what she meant and meant what she said. She'd even stood up to Tom for Merlin's sake, or rather spoke back to him, despite knowing or suspecting how dangerous he could be.
"You've already been in the Grand Hall?" Hadrian asked, bemused, Stephen became sheepish while Myrtle just nodded eagerly.
"Didn't you light a candle?" Tom enquired politely. He was never going to be terribly friendly with the girl, she was too much in his opinion but Hadrian cared very much about her. He did also feel a smidgen of guilt at the fact he'd killed her and used her death to create a Horcrux too. Despite the fact her death hadn't been intentional, or rather perhaps it's the fact it wasn't intentional that made him feel a smidge bit guilty.
"Neither of us have been unfortunate enough to lose someone," Myrtle answered, and truthfully she felt as though it was disrespectful to light candles and act as though they had. What couldn't be denied was the fact they were both very much looking forward to this Samhain. Which by the way she just realized she was pronouncing wrong. It wasn't said like 'Sam hain' it was pronounced 'Saah-ween' or 'Saah-win' she'd immediately read everything she could get her hands on when she'd been invited yesterday. She didn't want to embarrass herself or let Hadrian down. He was one of her best friends, her first friends and she'd never forget what he'd done for her or the confidence he'd given her just by being him.
"Good excuse as any," Hadrian shrugged, "I think that's everyone done anyway," backtracking and peering into the room, he nodded firmly, everyone had left for the Grand Hall. They only had a few hours before they had to return to Hogwarts, so they might as well get it done, plus the food smelt almost ready.
"Let's head in," Hadrian said to Tom, Myrtle and Stephen.
The four immediately made their way through the hallway and into another grand room within the confines of Peverell manor – Tom and Hadrian's home – a home they loved dearly. They no longer considered Hogwarts their home, but it would always be their first one and had a fond place in their hearts, Hadrian more so than Tom.
Hadrian blinked at the sight of the Altar, the House-elves had done a spectacular job, he must admit. He'd told them what to place, where to place it but he didn't think he could have done it better. Strategically placed were: Skulls, skeletons, grave rubbings, ghosts, pumpkin, squash, root vegetables, nuts and berries, dried leaves, a cornucopia filled with an abundance of fruit and vegetables was what it was. There were dozens of goblets filled with Mulled cider, mulled wine, or Mead surrounding it.
"That is not for drinking you know," Myrtle informed Dolohov who was about to drink from his goblet. "It's to give to the earth during the ceremony,"
"Only a drop is required," Dolohov said dryly, surprisingly mild when considering Myrtle wasn't a pureblood he was conversing with. "Not an entire goblet,"
"It's still considered rude," Myrtle pointed out, "It's a sacred tradition after all."
"What would you know about tradition?" Dolohov muttered distastefully.
"Other than the fact my family celebrates Yule and Beltane? Nothing, we haven't celebrated Samhain though, nor do we celebrate Halloween." She declared to the surprise of everyone there.
"Damn," Hadrian muttered impressed, it wasn't often you saw Dolohov speechless, he always had some wisecrack to give out. "A Half-Blood witch celebrates the pagan holidays when a pureblood does not." They celebrated the Christian holidays more than the Pagan ones, which is what he'd called them all out on being hypocrites that day for hating Muggle-borns and such when they too celebrated the Christian holidays.
"Let us give thanks for the Harvest," Tom stated firmly but with a kindness that they rarely saw outside of the common room. It took them a moment to remember there were others here who did not see the side of Tom that the Inner Circle or the Slytherins saw. He didn't want to deal with any fights, especially if they were drinking, the last thing he wanted was to be compromised. Or having to Obliviate someone here tonight, he had perfected the spell of course, but the thought of doing so was repugnant, he'd rather have no mistakes and anyone that made any would feel his wrath.
Each of those there tonight, whether with just a friend or significant other, all claimed a goblet for themselves and began to walk in a single file towards the bonfire. It was already pitch black, and all were suddenly grateful for their cloaks, gloves, scarfs and hats, for it was cold. Even with the warmth of the bonfire behind them, not quite close enough for it to warm them to their cold bones.
"Summer is gone, winter is coming. We have planted and we have watched the garden grow, we have weeded, and we have gathered the harvest. Now it is at its end." Hadrian said solemnly, pouring his mulled Cider onto the ground at his feet, and one by one, each of them echoed his statement without a single giggle or trace of amusement as they took the ritual seriously.
It spoke volumes that Myrtle and the girls immediately began to collect any yard trimmings or dead plants they could find to use them to make a straw man or woman. The wizards followed a more masculine path, choosing the King of Winter, to rule the home until spring returns. The girls chose the Goddess in her many forms, they chose to represent the Goddess as hag or crone in winter.
Truthfully though, how he guessed was anyone's guess, they were just a mass of twigs, leaves and anything in-between.
Once that was done, everyone ventured back inside and brought with them their deity. It was tradition to place him or her on your table and prop them up with a plate of their own, and when you sit down to eat, serve them first with a little offering of meat, vegetable or fruit. Which is exactly what they did, before they began to devour the food that the House-elves had painstakingly made for them. Hadrian had given the House-elves permission to celebrate their own Samhain should they wish to.
Everyone was chatting, having a good time, and Hadrian felt a sense of accomplishment, this was good. They had needed this, all of them, it would in the long run remind them what they were fighting for. Regretfully, time was short for their celebration, they would need to return to Hogwarts soon enough.
"This has to be the best Samhain I've celebrated in a long time, its much better than the Halloween feast." There was absolutely not a single sweet or candy to be seen, exactly how it should be.
"Hear, hear!" Hadrian called out in agreement raising his goblet and toasting to everyone. His other hand was wrapped around his husbands under the table, as always close to him when he could. The fact nothing had happened added to Hadrian's jubilance, grateful for once that nothing had gone wrong for him on this day.
"Do you think Hogwarts will ever bring back the old traditions?" Selwyn queried thoughtfully, it had been a long time since they celebrated the Pagan holidays and he had enjoyed himself immensely.
"We will certainly try, it's a time for change, and now is that time," Tom declared strongly, the right people and a petition is all it would take. Hogwarts might be mostly independent but they answered to a board of governors, and they listened to what the people want.
"It will be a good few years I reckon before we can get it done," Hadrian added, nodding thoughtfully.
"We will," Orion declared in agreement, with his family and their strong ties they should succeed.
"Here's to change," Myrtle said raising her goblet.
"To change!" was echoed by everyone.
Hadrian and Tom both stiffened when they felt their wards being breached, Hadrian inwardly cursed, so much for nothing happening. "Avery, why don't you take everyone back to Hogwarts? Tom and I will put the leftovers outside." 'as offering for the dead' but the likelihood it would just be animals that scavenged the leftovers.
Avery took one look at them and realized that there was something wrong, they were much too tense compared to how they'd been a few moments ago. Those who knew them well, realized there was something wrong, but the others who had come with were completely oblivious. Assuming that Tom and Hadrian wished for time alone before returning to Hogwarts. Everyone knew they were married/bonded after all, and it didn't take a genius – or so they thought – but they couldn't be more wrong.
"Sure," Avery said, outstretching his hand for the Portkey, probably the most sober of them all.
"Thank you all for coming," Hadrian said with a smile, it was genuine.
"Thanks for the invite, it was amazing," Myrtle said, leaning over, "And you'll tell me what's going on tomorrow," she added with a knowing look, she knew something was going on too.
Hadrian had no intention of doing so but nodded nonetheless.
"I hope you will all return for the Beltane celebrations, the effigies will be there guarding over my home until then," Hadrian told them, as they all gathered around to hold onto the portkey. He was slightly worried they wouldn't make it back in one piece, they were completely hammered.
"Count on it,"
"Count me in!
"Definitely!"
"Hell yes!"
"Bloody brilliant!"
Hadrian Laughed and waved them away as the Portkey whisked them away.
"It's a wizard, only one," Hadrian said as soon as they were alone, already stalking towards the back of the manor with haste.
Tom was right beside him the entire way, "Perhaps he's had too much to drink from the celebrations and lost his way via Portkey or Apparation?" Tom suggested, in other words, they'd need to have care how they dealt with the intruder, lest he be someone important, or worse big within the Ministry ranks.
Then a deafening howl rose up. "Oh, shit," Hadrian murmured with a shaky breath.
"Werewolf,"
"Yes, stunning only," Hadrian ordered, he refused to kill someone just because of what they were.
Their breathing hitched when they caught sight of the so called 'werewolf' it looked more like a cub, not yet fully grown.
"Stunning charms on two," Tom stated, not quite up to testing whether Hadrian would be pissed if he killed the thing. He had a soft spot for one werewolf, even though that wasn't him, couldn't be him. He'd been the same age as James Potter who wasn't born yet. Whoever it was extremely young and Hadrian would never forgive him if he killed a kid.
"Merlin's Balls, it's a kid," Hadrian breathed incredulously, "Wait…that colouring…it can't be…"
"What…or should I be asking whom?" Tom asked suspiciously, his mind flashing through all the werewolves 'Harry' had known. There were only two that he really got a glimpse of.
"It can only be Fenrir Greyback, that coat it's unmistakable." Hadrian, a very young Fenrir Greyback who had been abandoned by his family because of his affliction. "Now! Stupefy Maxima!"
"Stupefy Maxima!" Tom echoed, and the strong spells, brought the emaciated werewolf down immediately.