Hello!
Sorry, but i am in a hurry and i only post it now or next week again.
Quick question: Would you like more chapters of the Potter mansion or can we just skip onto Hogwarts?
Chapter 34
"I can't believe he invited her." I grumbled softly, my happy mood now sour.
Now, I know what all of you are thinking: Cheer up! You're in Diagon Alley! The centre of all magical activities, surely you can't allow yourself to get upset by the fact that Albus invited Amanda along too? Well, guess what? I am.
Stupid b…
The following three seconds contain language of a highly offensive manner, therefore we shall just skip that part.
So, there I was in Diagon Alley walking with Scorpius, Albus and, though I wish I wasn't, Amanda. However, I should mention that we weren't exactly in Diagon Alley yet, we were walking through the town behind it into Gringotts ( OH SOMEONE HELP ME!) to 'avoid the press' as everyone else put it. I don't get it! Why would anyone waste their time following these bunches of weirdo's around, except for the occasional playful insults and stupid comments that slips out of everyone's mouth, this family would be pretty boring to follow. Maybe they expect one of Voldemort's evil minions to make a jump at one of us, who knows?
The backstreets were empty and dark, there was an eerie feeling to all this and I knew that I couldn't be the only one that had a feeling of being watched- Not that I'm shy or anything, it's just strange to feel as though eyes are watching your every move. The flats, shops and stores that were on either side of us looked abandoned, dark and mysterious. I shivered as a light, lazy breeze swept through the deserted town. I pulled my dark grey cloak tighter around me, leaning into the warmth it provided.
Scorpius chuckled, walking calmly through the ally. His hands in his pocket and his white cloak draped coolly over his shoulders, an ever present smirk on his face.
"What's wrong with him inviting his girlfriend?" He asked, looking at me strangely.
I felt my frown deepen and focused on dodging a stray pebble in my walkway, "Because she hates me!" I exclaimed softly, having to remind myself that they weren't too far ahead.
He rolled his eyes, "Well, what did you expect when you decided to knock her out with your wand? Roses? A Thank you card?"
I jumped in front of him, managing to almost knock both of us off our feet, I glared at him, "I did not decide to knock her out, it was an accident."
What's up with people thinking that I would violently sabotage someone who I'm not particularly fond of? Do I strike you as a grumpy, old sod who finds joy in things that go wrong? Do I? Do I? Oh wait, I do.
( AWKWARD!)
He raised his hands in surrender, "Hey, I'm on your side."
My side?
Jeez, it was starting to sound as though I'm starting an uprising against their dating- Which now that I think about it, isn't such a bad idea...
OH NO! I sound like Boldy Voldy! Someone call the Aurors, but just make sure they break up Albus and Amanda first- Crap, I'm screwed.
Evil Aurora…
Bad Aurora…
I grinned up at him and smirked, "Everyone is on my side."
He just rolled his eyes and I fell back in line beside him once more.
I squinted into the darkness ahead us, trying to make out the shadows of Albus and Amanda. They were walking far ahead of us, but with what little light there was, I could make out them holding hands and whispering to each other, I cringed.
"How far must we still walk?" I asked, well, moaned.
My feet hurt, my back hurt, I was out of breath and Amanda's presence put me in a bad mood, then again the mere thought of her made me want to be knocked out by my own wand.
A flicker of concentration washed over his face as he narrowed his eyes into the dark alley before us, "Not too far, another fifteen minutes or so." He looked at me and sniggered, "I'm sure your lazy ass can last that long."
Fifteen minutes until- WAIT! DID HE JUST SAY…
I wacked him over the head (again) and stamped my feet angrily, "I am not lazy!"
He grinned casually at me and then raised his eyebrow, "Then what do you call it?"
I stuck my chin up in the air in a haughty sort of way, unable to comprehend the stupidity of the man next to men, "It is called, my dear fellow, selective participation in any physical and mental activities."
He snorted, "Still sounds like laziness to me."
I grinded my teeth, was he trying to be smart or was he damn stupid?
"I am not lazy!" I growled.
He opened his mouth to respond, but apparently our so-called quietness wasn't still enough, seeing as Albus turned around, his attention off his girlfriend for a second, "Is everything alright there?" He called over, which was quite unnecessary seeing as Scorpius and I had just proven that even whispering in a deserted street will be loud enough for people within a three mile radius to hear.
"No! Scorpius is being mean!" I pouted and crossed my arms, I know I probably resembled a spoilt toddler that was on the verge of throwing a tantrum, but hey! When complaining comes, you must be ready.
"What's he saying? Nothing too bad, I hope." Amanda called and even in the little amount of light in the street I could see her sardonic smile.
No way was I going to answer her!
"I called her lazy and now she's denying it." Scorpius answered instead and he and Albus laughed together, apparently finding my supposed 'laziness' humorous.
PUH-LEASE!
"Isn't this the part where you stand up to him and tell him to shut up?" I asked, rolling my eyes. As if! If anything he would just join in and would only stop once I almost hit him unconscious. Like I said, not violent, not violent at all.
"Well, you have to admit Aurora, you aren't exactly fit." Albus explained in an I-hope-you-understand-because- I'm- being-honest sort of way. Well, news flash! I don't understand!
"Not fit?" I gasped, "Did you not see me take you down this morning? That takes skill, muscle and stamina. I burnt calories there, my friend."
"You fought for the last piece of chocolate French toast, I highly doubt that counts as a healthy, low-fat breakfast." Albus smirked, having thought he won. I saw Amanda wrinkle her nose at the sound of 'chocolate French Toast'; like I needed any more reasons to not adding her to my 'List of Favorite People'.
"It's chocolate French Toast, Albus!" I exclaimed throwing my hands into the air. "The last slice of chocolate French toast so why you thought you could have it is insulting what little intelligence you possess."
I saw Amanda growl at my comment of her precious boyfriends' intelligence, on the other hand Scorpius just laughed and high-fived me.
"You had four pieces already, I thought you were full!" He countered back, his face going red.
"It's chocolate-" I started, only to have him interrupt me.
"And French toast, we know!" he finished.
"Aww, cute. You two are finishing each other's sentences." Scorpius pretended to coo lovingly, that only deepened Amanda's glare. Chill girl, we're all joking.
Albus and I turned on him, "Butt out!"
He let out a whistle and whispered something that sounded like, "Touchy, touchy."And we turned on each other again.
"Whatever happened to 'Ladies first'?" I asked. We were all in line now, walking faster.
"It disappeared with all the other breakfast you had this morning, probably ate it too." He countered back and there was silence.
I can honestly say that it is pointless to laugh at the insults people throw at you, seeing as that only makes you look like an idiot, but that was actually really funny. I felt a smile come on to my lips as I glared at him, I tried to force it back down but it was no use.
"That wasn't funny." I warned him, trying to keep a straight face, but within the next few seconds we were all in stitches laughing at the insult intended to me, well, at least we were, Amanda wasn't.
Once we all were laughed- out (if that's a word?) Scorpius cleared his throat, stretched out his arms and said with self-importance, "And so, we have the fourth entrance to Gringotts."
I frowned and looked around.
We were at the end of the street at a brick wall and an over-flowing dustbin. Were we supposed to do something? Climb into the dustbin, because if we must, I can honestly say that Wizards are obviously losing their touch.
They all looked as though they were used to this, none of them finding this out of the ordinary.
"It's a dustbin?" I said slowly, unable to find it all that exhilarating, "Though I must say, I always thought of Gringotts bigger and fancier. Goodness knows! Those goblins would throw a fit if they had to work in a dustbin-"
"Aurora-" Scorpius started, but I carried on.
"However, that would be entertaining to see. Their little bodies holding huge signs above their heads saying ' We're not rubbish!'. Get it, because of the dustbin? Anyway, it's too small to have anyone fit inside-"
"Aurora!" Albus exclaimed loudly and I shut my mouth not wanting to anger the toddler more, " You talk too much."
I rolled my eyes and opened my mouth to speak, only to have Scorpius interrupt me.
" As much fun as it is to listen to your musing," He started only to have Amanda scoff, " we have work that needs to be done."
I nodded and kept my mouth shut for a change. This was it, the beginning of Hogwarts- Yes, I know it's not! But, it's getting my things which are equally exciting.
Scorpius pulled something out of the pocket of his robe and before I could see what it was he pressed it against the wall. Nothing happened at first, until all the rocks started to move apart creating an arch for us to follow through, inside was the exact same room where we arrive last time. My mouth popped open, " A-A wall?"
Albus walked over and nudged me in the side, "Yes, no magical dustbin and protesting goblins involved."
I wacked him over the head, but softly seeing as I couldn't wrap my mind over the arch, "Shut up."
Scorpius was already strolling through the crowd of busy people. I stared at them, but kindly not the stalker-ish kind.
There were so many different types of people, people with long hair, people with short, many tall, some short, others carrying parcels and some carrying animals. It was fascinating, it really was. I scanned the crowd looking for silvery blond hair, only to not see it.
OH CRAP!
I looking around in panic, people were busy pushing past me and all of them were walking in different directions , an occasional green smoke could be seen in the air from where the fire places were for people travelling to and fro. I gulped, unable to comprehend my bad luck. I turned around to see if Albus and (dare I say it?) Amanda were still at the arch. I groaned at the sight. The arch had returned to its pointless form as a wall and witches and wizards were rushing past it. I stood on the tip of my toes in order to get some visual. I mean Potter's weren't that tall but surely they would stand out a little. I stretched and stretched my toes as high as they could go, but it was pointless. I fell back onto the flat of my feet and tried to not panic.
Breathe in.
I'm lost.
Breathe out.
I can't find them.
Breathe in.
What if they can't find me?
Breathe out-
A huge body bashed into me and before I could stop or grab on to something I fell to the floor. I loud BANG echoing through the room. A few people stopped and stared at me before rushing by not even bothering to try and help me up. I growled as the pain in my hip and head increased. I looked around for the Pusher only to see his light brown curly disappear into the crowd. I silently cursed him and got back up, ignoring the pain in my back that started again. I winced as I felt my head, but was happy that there was no blood or bump. The moving bodies around me started to make me dizzy and I swear I was becoming claustrophobic. The air seemed to become less and less as the bodies moved closer and closer, my heart pounded in my chest and I was scared that it would burst. Please! Someone find me! Please!
I took a step forward only to be pulled back with a tug. I gasped and turned around, seeing the most beautiful girls in the world.
"Oh, thank goodness!" I breathed out, relieved and hugged Rose and Lily tightly, all anxiety and confusion washed away. My heart exploding with joy and relief.
"Aurora!" Lily muffled, her face tightly pressed against me.
"I was so worried that I wouldn't find you." I whispered, squeezing my eyes shut as the dizziness came over me again, but I let them go nonetheless.
Rose studied my face and before I could hide any trace of pain, fear or dizziness, she asked, " What's wrong? You look sick."
I shook my head only to stop as the acidic taste appeared in my mouth.
Please don't puke. Please don't puke on Rose or Lily. Please don't puke in Gringotts. Please don't puke in general.
" I'm okay, relieved actually. I thought I was lost for good." I cringed at that thought; I don't ever want to be lost again.
Rose patted my back and then grabbed my elbow and started pulling me towards the green smoke.
" Mom is busy biting Albus's and Scorp's head off for not having looked after you properly. James volunteered to go look for you but Aunt Hermione stopped him, saying that he gets distracted easily." Lily chuckled and I grabbed on to her elbow not wanting her to get lost and suffer the same fate as I.
" But honestly!" Rose exclaimed with annoyance, pushing past people, " Don't those three think? Well I know Amanda doesn't , but the boys? They should have known better than to rush ahead without checking you were with them the whole time."
I smiled a little at the concern in her voice. It was kind of her to care about little 'ol me, but it wasn't their fault.
" I shouldn't have stopped and taken my eyes off them. I should have held on to someone instead of getting distracted. They shouldn't be in trouble, I should. I was being stupid." I said honestly and slightly out of breath. Maybe they were right about the whole fitness thing.
Lily rolled her eyes, " And of course, leave it up to you to take the blame."
I opened my mouth to tell them that it was actually my fault, but Rose interrupted me.
"You're completely innocent. You have the right to sightsee a little seeing as this is all new to you, but they had the responsibility to make sure you stay with them. Now no more discussion on this topic, it's over and that's that." Rose said with such finality that not even I dared make a sound.
We squeezed our way through the last crowd of people and arrived at our final destination: The Redheads with the occasional Brunette and Blonde.
Before I could even open my mouth to announce my arrival I was pulled into a bear crushing hug, "Oh! Merlin! You're alright."
I grinned happily, "Of course I am." Besides the headache and nausea and come to think of it I was still pretty angry at the stranger who pushed me too… But like I said, I was perfectly okay.
She smiled before turning around with a scowl on her face, she glared at the two boys and pointed to me, "You two! Apologize now."
Albus and Scorpius looked down at their feet ashamed, "We're sorry. We shouldn't have been so stupid and left you to follow us and should have turned around and gone back for you when we noticed you were missing, not just carrying on."
They noticed me missing and didn't even turn back?
How Slytherin of them all.
I looked at Amanda and I saw her smirk too, but it was colder than mine, a lot colder. I ignored it; it's not wise to just start a row with someone in the middle of a crowded room, that would be embarrassing and silly.
I crossed my arms and grinned, "I'll accept your apology on one condition." They nodded certainly which only made me grin more, "You have to give me first dibs on all French toast and Chocolate in the future."
Their mouths popped open and I could see a 'no' forming on their lips, before an uncertain look crossed their faces and then acceptance.
Albus sighed and so did Scorpius.
"Why couldn't you have been like other girls?" Albus puffed in annoyance.
I saw Amanda's face brighten with interest at what she thought was an insult to me.
I raised my eyebrow, "I am like other girls, minus the fact that unlike them, I like to eat."
Scorpius rolled his eyes and grinned, "Don't we know it!"
"Disgusting." Amanda muttered, wrinkling her nose. We all ignored her. Who listens to a girl who doesn't eat anything but lettuce leaves and apples?
James and Hugo emerged from the crowed with Malfoy's and Rose's parents.
They opened their mouths to say something, but Albus beat them to it, "She's safe. Don't worry."
A flicker of annoyance crossed James's face, which was strange seeing as he hardly ever get's annoyed.
"Yes, let's thank our lucky stars for that." He said sarcastically and rolled his eyes. No one noticed the angry tone behind his sarcasm but I. It was off; it wasn't like his usual self.
"And you should be happy she is." Mrs. Malfoy said, eying her son angrily.
I grinned up at all of them, "Don't worry, Mam. I made sure they learnt their lesson."
"Oh?" Mr. Malfoy said, now looking at his son too.
He let out a sigh of dismay and looked to the ground, "She made a deal with us involving food and chocolate."
Mr. Malfoy chuckled and gave me a high-five, "Nothing is worse than losing food."
I laughed, "Hit them where it hurts."
Ron and Mr. Malfoy laughed merrily.
"Should we go?" Mr. Potter said pointing to his left. We all nodded and he looked at Albus and Scorpius, " Don't let anyone get lost, okay?"
We all laughed as they groaned, Amanda just looked annoyed and bored.
"Bad joke, dad. Very bad joke." Albus moaned and looked down at his feet sheepishly.
I laughed along too, but stopped when the dizziness washed over me again. I cringed, but followed them out in to the hallway, this time making sure to keep my eyes on the fire-like mane of Rose. Then again it's not easy to miss a whole group of redheads heading in the same direction- Not that I'm insulting redheads or something! It's just true…
A big old man was waiting in the hallway for us and I recognized him immediately.
"Mr. Stoughton." I greeted the man kindly- What! I'm not a complete ass when I am fed.
He smiled down at me, "Ah, Ms. Aurora, pleasure to see you again. I trust everything is now sorted with the Inheritance?" He said the last part softly noticing Amanda's attention focus on us.
I nodded, "Everything's fine, thank you. I actually am here to make my first withdrawal today." I grinned happily.
Not at the thought of all the money, that's still considered unearned money in my mind, but just the whole opportunity to go and withdraw money was exciting enough.
He smiled down his eyes twinkling with happiness, "I'm glad. Use and spend wisely though, money and the will to live is the seed of greed."
I nodded, trying to hide a frown that started to form.
Before I could answer he turned to address the others and leaving me with my thoughts.
"Morning everyone, I am Mr. Stoughton." He greeted them kindly looking around at all of them, I noticed his eyes linger on Mr. Potter longer than necessary. Poor dude, having people look at him the whole time, I couldn't care less if people stared at me, but then again who would stare at me?
I probably make trolls look like supermodels and that saying something.
A choir of 'Mornings' was said and he carried on, "I've just called upon your goblins to take you to your vaults, we've done the spells and everything so no journalist or photographers are nearby."
"Thank you, Mr. Stoughton." Hermione said graciously.
He bowed his head and said merrily, "It's my job, my kind madam. Now, I have some errands to run, so if I may depart that would be very kind."
"Of course, good day and thank you." Mr. Malfoy said, wiping his hair out of his eyes.
He tightened his robe around his belly and with one last bow he disappeared with a loud 'crack'. I jumped back with fright and looked around. Were under attack? Did someone fall? Was everyone okay?
"Apparition." James whispered in to my ear and I jumped back (again). HONESTLY! My heart can only take so much before it decides to stop… for good.
"What?" I asked breathlessly, watching the spot where the man disappeared.
"It's when you disappear and reappear somewhere else." James explained calmly, playing with the sleeve of his robe.
"Oh." I breathed out, well that makes sense … At least it didn't involve any green fire. "Can you apparate too?"
James shook his head, "Only once you come of age are you allowed to apparate, if you do so underage the Ministry will know and you could get into a lot of trouble with the ministry. It's not worth it from my point of view. Besides, if you do it wrong you could get splintched-"
I crooked my head to the side, " Splintched?"
"Oh yeah, you don't know. Splintch is when you leave one part of yourself behind. Nasty business that, really gross."
This time we both winced at the thought.
"So, like leaving a leg behind or something?" I asked, absolutely disgusted at the thought of coming across a stray body part on my morning endeavors. I wriggled my nose.
"Yup or an eye." He looked at me and winked. I hit him over the head with a loud Oomph, " That's not funny, James. What if it happened to you?"
He raised his eyebrow, "Really? You're going to try the whole guilt trip act? That's low."
I rolled my eyes, "It works doesn't it?
He just laughed and looked around, before announcing, "The goblins are here."
I looked around too; there were three goblins, all of them showing some definite inbreeding going on. The long hooked noses, small, shallow eyes, big ears and little hair was seen. I didn't pay attention as they took Amanda away to her vault- Okay, you caught me! I did. What can I say? It was a joyful moment. The second one took the Weasley's and the last one was for us and the Malfoy's, maybe our vaults were close to each other?
I looked down to find our goblin, only to have him find me first.
"Oh, great it's you." A nasty, whiny voice was heard and everyone stilled. I frowned thinking it was Amanda (They both like to moan, don't judge), but she was lead away from here. I searched the floor and then I saw him, or should I say it?
I moaned and felt the nausea come back, "You've got to be joking!" I exclaimed, not happy with our chosen goblin. That was one face, along with Amanda's that I could live without seeing. I could feel everyone's eyes on me and I knew that they were putting together the pieces.
"So, the Night Coin's thief strikes again. Pity, pity." He whispered, he's eyes showing cruelty and his crooked and ugly smile showing vindictiveness.
I growled, my annoyance levels shooting up, "I didn't try to steal them. I tried to help you with them."
He's little fist curled up, hands like claws, "You call me liar, you worthless witch?" He spat, red appearing on his cheeks.
I crossed my arms and stuck my chin up, "Well, I am not calling you honest, you psychotic dwarf."
He glared at me with those small eyes and I could see his sharp teeth peeking behinds his pale lips. I stared at him coolly, unable to give a damn if he hated me or not. I know that just because someone is shorter and smaller than you does not mean you have the right to fight with them, but that doesn't mean you that you should let people or goblins or any other magical being call you worthless.
"How about you show us to our vaults?" I asked, giving him my best Mrs. Potter version: hands on hips, glaring eyes and mouth in a thin line.
He growled and shrink back, "Of course."
He walked ahead of us, his head bent and muttering could be heard.
"I can't believe you did that?" Albus said, looking at me with amazement. I blushed heavily having forgotten that they were actually there.
I turned to face everyone, all their eyes on me. James was staring at me with such shock that it was almost impossible to not feel a tad annoyed, Mr. Potter and Mr. Malfoy were laughing and planning on telling Ron, Mrs. Potter was grinning madly and Scorpius was laughing his right bottom cheek off.
"Let's go." I said, ignoring their looks of confusion and surprise. I walked forward, trying to focus on anything but the headache I currently had.
"Are you trying to get yourself killed?" Scorpius asked having caught up quickly with his long legs.
Well, seeing as a bunch of vampire clans are after me already, I'm sure it won't hurt to have a goblin join the group too.
I rolled my eyes, "What's the worst he can do? Kick me in the shins?"
We both laughed, picturing it in our heads.
We followed the Goblin in to a narrow, stone hallway where two wooden carts were waiting on a pitch black stream that held a lamp on the end, enough light to see the boat and not much light for anything else.
I climbed into a boat with Albus, James, Scorpius and Mr. Potter. I fidgeted as we waited for it to go and I could feel my nerves start up again. What if he tries to kill us? Drowned us? Kill us in a vacant corner? Crash the boat?
I started to regret insulting him, seeing as there was the slight chance of him killing us, but in another way, I couldn't be bothered. What? He was annoying, like Amanda, they were both annoying.
Hodder climbed into the front of our boat, his face facing forward but disgust could be seen clearly. Bloody magic hater. Could it be all magical people that he can't stand or was I the exception? I would love to be the exception; it was sort of therapeutic in an odd, diabolical, twisted way.
Without warning the boat started to move, I don't know if it was going really fast or if it was just my imagination, but it was scary.
I grabbed on to the sleeves of James and Albus on either side of, you're all probably thinking that I did it for some selfless reason, but the truth was that I was terrified and sure maybe the thought of them falling out the cart was irksome but that doesn't mean that I have to think about it.
"Calm down, Black." James whispered into my ear, a hint of amusement could be heard.
I drew my eyes of the dark tunnel ahead of us and glared at him, my mouth becoming dry, "I am calm, can't you tell?" I said sarcastically, my voice was tight and high-pitched.
His laugh echoed from the walls around us and I cringed back out of instinct.
"You look like road kill." He laughed again and managed to dodge my slap across the face.
Now, he's either learning or I'm becoming predictable both of which are two terrible and nerve wrecking possibilities.
The boat speed up, going faster and the turns got worse; I felt the acid creep up in to my throat and asked for nothing more than to have the boat stop-
WHAT IF WE GET LOST!
I looked back trying to remember which direction we went first.
Left, right, straight, left, up, down, left, left, right.
But it was impossible. With every turn my headache increased, with every turn I could feel the vomit rise higher and higher and with every turn I felt as though I was going to die.
The boat started to tip forward and I knew we were going to go down again. I tightened my hold on both boys, shut my eyes and mouth ( probably resembling some bloated fish), my hair was whipping my face leaving it stinging . We fell forward and I felt a scream come out of my mouth, but we kept on falling.
OH MY SOUL I'M A GONER!
I'M GOING TO DIE!
One large hand covered my mouth and I had to use whatever self-control to not bite it to pieces. Potential chew toy? Probably
" Shh." Albus said calmly in my ear, he sounded so unfazed by what was going on, it was quite unnerving. I shook my head and looked down, preparing myself for the worst. He squeezed my hand back softly and whispered quietly, "Remember the night I took you on my broom?"
I didn't have to think about it, I would remember that night always. I nodded, still keeping my face down.
"Think of it like that. The wind in your hair, the content feel of just flying, the freedom of life." He said happily, nudging me in the side.
I shook my head, "I can't."
"And why not?" He asked, "If this is because you're scared, you don't have to be. We're here, I'm here."
I shook my head and I could feel the motion sickness kick in, "It's not only that."
I knew he was frowning now, "Then what?" He asked, he's voice wary.
I tried to swallow, but I couldn't, "I feel like I'm going to be sick."
He said nothing for a few seconds and I knew he was going to be disgusted. I mean who would want to sit next to a girl who was on the verge of vomiting?
"Okay then." He said finally and held on to my hand firmly, "Just try and aim for James or Dad? Lily would probably kill you."
I laughed, but stopped quickly.
"Don't make me laugh." I moaned and covered my mouth with my hand; I could already taste the foul and repugnant taste.
He just chuckled and remained quiet, holding my hand tightly. The boat was slowing down and with every fiber of my being I hoped for it to be over for good. I hate being sick, I really do. It's on the top of my Things That I Despise list.
The boat came to a complete stop and I wasn't sure of what was worse the moving boat or the fact that the boat had stopped moving but everything was spinning.
James got out and held his hand out for me to take, but I carried on looking down, my will power absolutely shattered.
"Aurora?" He called out softly, but evens his voice was enough to make the world move faster. I groaned softly.
"Come on, Aurora. We're almost finished, and then we can go get you some medicine." Albus said calm and reassuring.
I nodded and lifted my head, making sure to focus on one constant thing: James's hand. I reached out and took it, his hand held mine firmly. I pushed my legs up, ignoring how heavy they felt and stood up wobbly. I looked James in his eye and I knew that he could see I wouldn't be able to get out of the boat without passing out. Before I could stop him, he picked me up into a bridal carry and took me out of the cart. I silently thanked him.
"You look a tad green." James said, as always stating the obvious.
"I bet." I mumbled against his green cotton robe.
I moaned, please don't let me vomit on his shirt.
"Just keep her still for a moment." Albus instructed his voice nearby.
We waited for a minute and everything started to slow down a little, which I was obviously happy for. Once I was certain it had slowed down enough for me to walk I asked James to put me down- Okay, I sort of had to ask him a couple of times, seeing as he was adamant on keeping me off my feet.
"She said she's okay, James." Albus said annoyed.
Jeez, who peed in his coffee this morning? Woops, that could have been James.
I looked up at James and I saw his eyes flicker curiously to Albus, "I know. I'm just looking out for her."
It was my turn to look at Albus now and I knew that he was talking about the whole incident this morning that actually resulted in my feeling like this.
"I'm seriously okay, James." I said, climbing out of his arms. I was a little wobbly, but that was okay, I would get better any minute now.
"See," I smirked , " Good as new."
They both looked at my face before frowning, "You still look green."
Well, duh! It's the color most people turn when they feel a little sick, just saying.
I ignored that comment and looked around, "Where's the others?"
"Dad and Scorpius went to go get something from our vault and the other's should be on their way still." Albus said looking in to the dark tunnel from where we just came, I shuddered. It was so dark, it reminded me of the vampires, but for once I wasn't scared, they wouldn't dare try and take me now. I was free and I was staying free.
"Oh, okay then." I said and wiped a piece of hair out of my face. Stupid hair! I don't know if any of you have problems with your hair, but if you do I'm sure you could feel my pain. Maybe I should have cut it shorter. I stood there musing about my hair and pushing it out of my face when James's hand grabbed mine. I frowned as both of them stared at my forehead in horror and confusion.
"What?" I asked worriedly and touched the spot, a large bump had formed. "Oh, great."
Just damn perfect. You see how much my luck sucks? I ask for there to not be a bump and what do I get? Not only a bump, but nausea too. Pathetic.
"What happened?" Albus asked, still staring at my forehead.
I waved my hand, dismissing the thought, "Nothing."
James rolled his eyes, "You're a terrible liar. Something we will have to work on if you want to be a Marauder."
I rolled my eyes, only to find that it worsened my headache, " Nothing." I said again, reassuringly. "Now drop it! Before I push you two into the water."
It was their turn to ignore my pitiless threats. What can I say? I'm not intimidating when I have a headache and the skin color of grass or I'm just not intimidating at all ( sigh).
" You didn't have that this morning when we left the house and I don't remember you falling that hard on our way here." Albus said, eyebrows creased with concentration.
" Did something happen in the Visitors Platform while we were waiting? Did someone punch you?" James asked, well demanded actually.
Yes, because random people like to come and punch me in the face.
If I could have rolled my eyes, I would of, but I didn't. Instead I raised my hands to stop them. "Whoa! Okay, calm down a little okay. It's alright, I didn't even notice the bump until you told me a minute ago-"
"But the nausea? You felt that didn't you?" Albus demanded to know.
What drama queens. Jeez, I would swear that they were the two with Estrogen running through them.
I groaned, "Yes, now speak softer you're really giving me a headache." They opened their mouths to protest, but by this stage my patience with them had run out. If they wanted to be protective and so damn demanding then they should go do it somewhere else.
"It's nothing!" I exclaimed, my voice echoing off the walls. I felt my head become a little dazed and I quieted down a little, "A guy just knocked me over while I was looking for Scorpius and you guys. That's all, I swear."
James turned to Albus and I could see an accusation on the rise, I aimed a perfectly good kick to his shin and he gasped.
"W-What?" He gasped in pain doubled over and gasping.
I let out a breath as the nausea washed over me again, "No." I said with such finality that I knew he wouldn't dare question it- I wouldn't even dare question it!
"Fine." He nodded angrily at me, but I knew he couldn't ever stay mad at me anyway.
"That was a pretty good kick actually." Albus stated calmly, not understanding our little exchange.
I smirked slightly, "Thanks, James actually taught me to use it on you."
This wasn't a complete lie, but it was better than the truth. I am actually not that bad at self-defense, had to be, but I didn't tell James that when he offered to teach me some self-defense. I had only gotten used to walking by then and my legs still hurt badly with all the breaking, tearing of ligaments and muscles but I didn't want to tell him that, I didn't want to tell anybody that. James thought that it was a must if I wanted to survive in his family, so I did it and it hurt. He didn't notice and laughed at all my failed attempts, by the end of the day it wasn't hurting that much and we were both laughing. That was one of my happiest memories.
"Finally!" Lily exclaimed coming in to view. "I thought this cart was never going to get here!"
" Poor things, ours practically flew here." James said grinning from ear to ear, bouncing up and down, and his previous anger gone.
"That's impossible, they all go the same speed, Potter." Scorpius said rolling his eyes. He hopped out of the cart and helped his mother.
"Well, that's what happens when you call a goblin a 'psychotic dwarf'." James laughed and nudged me in my side. I shuddered, even thinking about the carts made me ill.
"That's not funny, James." I said bluntly. I looked around, "Talking of which, where is he?"
James looked around and then nodded to our left, "They're coming now, look."
I looked in the vague direction. I was pretty impressed with his eye-sight, even if I had known in which direction they were coming from, I still wouldn't have been able to see in the abundance of darkness around us.
"Let's get started shall we?" Mr. Potter asked as everyone was finished climbing out of their cart and dusting themselves off. I don't know if it would be hypocritical of me if I say that they should really clean in here- Close your mouth! I know you know about my room! I know you know about my inability to keep the room or anything clean! I know! But for a moment let's forget about that, okay? So, where was I- oh yes! Goblins cleaning. Maybe a little sweeping and dusting wouldn't hurt, neither would opening a few windows- Okay I'm an idiot, they're underground (Insert face palm) - or they could put in a few windows…
That's worse.
Sigh.
"Follow me." Hodder growled, his eyes stuck on me. I just smirked and skipped forward, which was quite a bad idea when it came to the nausea problem, ignoring his sinister muttering and all. I caught up to Scorpius and fell in line with him for the second time today- And no! That is not the reason why I was grinning like someone who belonged with the crazies.
"So, who's are we going to first?" I asked, trying to keep up with his large and fast steps. I panted after a second and my grin was wiped off my face quickly.
Definitely going to look in to that fitness exercises again.
He looked down t me and grinned, "Malfoys' vault, I think." He paused before asking, "Why? Excited to see the famous and most ancient Black vault?"
I frowned and told him the truth, "No, not actually."
I kept my head forward, not wanting him to look into my eyes. I was terrified, not of there not being enough, but there being too much. They've all explained it a thousand times, if not more, but I still couldn't understand their definition of 'a lot' and I don't think they understood my definition of 'a lot'. I guess you could say there is a bit of a miscommunication going on here.
He rolled his eyes and put his hands in his pockets, "Oh, come on, not evens a little bit?"
I shrugged my shoulders and kept my gaze forward, but I hoped that my nonchalant act would keep him satisfied until I actually figured out how I felt about it.
"So, if you're not excited-" He started, but I cut him off.
"I never said that."
From the corner of my eye I saw him roll his eyes and carried on as though nothing happened ever happened, "Then what are you? Frightened maybe?"
I frowned, I didn't feel frightened per say, but it was close enough to the actual feeling behind my exterior mask.
"Black?" Scorpius nudged me again, "Aurora?"
I looked at him in the eyes, knowing he would start a scene if I avoided his question, "Frightened? No." I thought about it, "Apprehensive? Yes."
He nodded, deep in thought, "Understandable." He suddenly broke out into a grin, " I think that is actually the first time you have told someone how you are actually feeling, you usually just say you're fine."
I glared at him, "Not true! I told James and Albus a few minutes ago that I felt nauseas, that has to count for something?"
He stopped and looked me in the eyes searching my face for any sort of lie to cross my features. I wasn't too up to date with all the houses at Hogwarts, but from what I've heard I could have picked a better house for Scorpius than Slytherin, everything about him shouted perceptive. He analyzed everything and thought things through too much, though he is quick with a joke and a tease; he still takes it all in.
"They probably tried to comfort you and you turned away, saying you were fine." He stated, his face blank, watching and studying mine. I felt my eyes narrow.
"Wrong." I smirked, "I allowed them to comfort me."
He raised his eyebrow, "For what? The first three minutes and then you told them it was over, that you were okay."My silence was enough of an answer for him; he chuckled and then carried on walking beside me. "You're not as hard to read as you think you are. I wasn't put into Slytherin for nothing and neither was Albus, James on the other hand is a different story entirely."
He looked up at him and sniggered a Slytherin-worthy snigger, "And you should remember that I have dealt with more deceit and treachery than more than you will ever and have ever in your life. So, I apologize if I insulted you with being uncomfortable with comfort and people actually giving a damn."
It was his turn to keep his eyes straight on ahead, "I've insulted you ,haven't I?"
I was about to reply with my go to phrase 'It's okay' when I remembered what he said.
"Yes you have, but it's not the first time today." I said, sticking my chin out and giving him what I hoped was the best haughty look I could pull. "It's becoming daily occurrence on your part."
I was trying to change the topic, I didn't like arguments about something so stupid and I could literally feel my headache banging against my temples.
Ouch.
He chuckled, "Still with the laziness joke?" he chuckled again. I could tell that he also wanted a change in topic, probably sick of all the sappy talks too. Ain't nobody got time for that!
" Yes!" I exclaimed loudly, " Still with that really offensive snide comment about my fitness."
"You probably want an apology?" He asked sarcastically and thank s to being friends with Albus for such a long time, I knew just by the twitch of his right cheek that he was planning something.
"Yes." I said deadpanned.
Let him name his conditions and I will do it without a moment's hesitation.
He smirked and then laughed again, clearly finding his thoughts highly amusing, "Okay, then. I will apologize only if you prove it. Run from here until the end of the passageway."
I raised my eyebrow.
YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME!
Wasn't this whole argument about him not apologizing for calling me lazy and unfit? Now he wants me to run? How does his logic work? Does he have a loose bolt up in there or something?
"No." I said straight, "Hell to the no!"
He tried to conceal his laugh with a cough, but I heard it, I heard it loud and clear.
"And why not?" He questioned further, trying and failing to keep his face blank, something Rose said Slytherins were brilliant at.
(Bad Slytherin)
I opened my mouth to say something along the lines of, "I'm too lazy", but realized that that would only ruin my chances of ever getting an apology.
"It's only about a hundred meters, if not less." He said, analyzing the distance. Now, maybe it's just me or maybe it was women in general, but how is it that they could see so well in the dark and I couldn't. I was practically raised in the dark!
"A hundred meters?" I asked skeptically, narrowing my eyes as I tried to see in the dark.
I gave up after a few seconds and took his word for it, because that's the kind and honest person that I am.
(No comment)
And also because I was a tad too tired, not lazy, just tired. To be honest, all this talk about fitness was rather quite unfair. I mean, it not like I could exactly do laps in my tinny tiny cell, I would have probably suffered from permanent brain damage from running into the walls too. And after that you might ask? Well, I sort of didn't have any feeling in my legs for a week or two after escaping and once feeling returned, I had to study.
My reasons for being lazy and unfit…
TADA!
I opened my mouth to respond with a sarcastic answer (What other answer is there?), but sadly we had reached our destination and my comment would remain unknown, even to myself.
The Goblin took Mr. Malfoy's wand and jabbed it into an opening in the wall that was oddly shaped as a snake- Way to go, Malfoy's! How patriotic!
"Stupid snakes." I heard James mutter under his breath, I gave a slight chuckle not really paying attention to him. I watched as the Goblin press his palm on the dark, cracked stone of the vaults door and then it opened. Now I won't lie to you and tell you that there was green smoke whirling around inside, a 'wishhh'-ing sound and a random choir singing in the background a bunch of "AH" and "OH" words.
However, if you're not happy with my description. I can at least tell you that there was a banging sound, but that was only because I lost feeling in my foot and fell ( Skills), don't worry though, I'm okay, Scorpius caught me before anything but my pride was hurt.
"Thanks." I muttered, blushing a nice and sexy tomato red.
He just rolled his eyes and muttered, "What can I say, it's becoming a daily occurrence on your part."
My mouth popped open, that's what I said! That was my line! That was-
Oh, that boy's incorrigible.
I tried to give them some privacy and not peer in to their vault, but sadly my undeniable curiosity had to pay the price and my mind as it soon became a battle ground. I tried to think of something else, but sadly my choices for topics were limited to the point where socializing was another and better alternative.
" So, no one can get in without the help of a goblin?" I asked, try and failing at making small talk. Might as well find out as much as I could about Gringotts, who knows maybe one day I might actually be in need of this information…
HAHA- No.
I saw the goblin turn and glare at me again. Jeez, some people- things could hold grudges, who would have thought?
"Obviously, witch." The Goblin snapped angrily, "No mere Magical folk can just walk in here and take what is not theirs." He cleared his throat and began to recite a poem:
"Enter, stranger, but take heed
Of what awaits a sin of greed,
For those who take, but do not earn,"
Mr. Potter joined in without missing a beat:
Must pay most dearly in their turn,
So if you seek beneath our floors-"
Hodder stopped and looked over at Mr. Potter and glared, "I never asked for you to join in, Chosen One."
I frowned and opened my mouth to answer with a snide and probably very rude comment, but Mr. Potter held up his hand to stop me and then looked at Hodder, "Of course, carry on."
The goblin didn't need to be told twice, he started again:
"So if you seek beneath our floors
A treasure that was never yours,
Thief, you have been warned, beware
Of finding more than treasure there."
Hodder finished his performance with one last sinister smile at me and it just angered me right away. Of all things I had to make enemies with, it just had to be a goblin! Curse my supposed 'luck'.
I started to clap my hands slowly and then said sarcastically, " Well, that was awfully dramatic."
Albus suddenly started suffering from a bad cough that sounded, I don't know if it was only me, like a failed attempt to conceal a laugh. James on the other hand, didn't have the decency to try and hide it and just laughed in the goblins face. Mr. and Mrs. Potter just concealed their smiles by pretending to be engrossed in a serious conversation, but we all knew that they were eavesdropping ( subtle).
"You would be stupider if you didn't take it seriously." Hodder said, crossing his arms in a self-important way.
I rolled my eyes, "Oh no, I'm damn serious. I mean, scary stuff that." I paused then looked at the goblin with fake innocence, "Good thing Mr. Potter and his friends escaped with their lives intact. Whew."
Apparently I had touched a nerve with that with Hodder. He stamped his feet and threw his little arms in to the, utterly outraged, " That was an exception! We goblins take our jobs seriously and magical creatures waste our time with-"
"How are they punished? The people who break in here? Surely someone had to be punished or caught before?" I asked interrupting his daily (or hourly venting) therapeutic lesson. I honestly think that he should talk to a Healer or physiatrist or someone in general about his issues with magical people, it was really becoming insulting.
He stopped in mid-sentence and stared at me in shock, before letting it go and answering my question, " If anyone breaks into a vault they will be stuck inside until we check them."
"How many times do you check them?" I asked my curiosity escaping from the mental jail I sent it too.
Hodder smiled sadistically, but it wasn't he who answered, it was Mr. Potter, "Every ten years or so."
He was staring at Hodder too with a confused expression, one that didn't suit my absolutely disgusted expression and feeling. Ten years? Surely they were lying, they had to be! Ten years was a flippen long time, you would most likely die of starvation and dehydration than anything else.
"Why all the questions Aurora?" Albus asked innocently (as if!), "Thinking of robbing Gringotts?"
I knew that Albus was joking, but I could also see the wheels start to turn in Hodder's dark and gloomy mind.
"We're finished." Mr. Malfoy announced and stepped out of their vault and I suddenly remembered why we were actually here.
"Whose vault next?" I asked, looking at the Potters expectantly.
"Yours." Mr. Potter stated and started walking down the pathway again. I didn't follow; I just stayed where I was, mouth open and stomach doing flips in my abdomen. After three seconds of complete and utter shock, I ran forward to catch up to Mr. Potter. I swallowed loudly, trying to keep the vile taste of acid away from my taste buds.
"Already?" I asked, well, gasped actually, "We don't have to do it now- I mean, let's do yours first. I'm sure mine can wait a little- Say! Why don't we come back tomorrow? We're wasting time and James told me wants to go to the Quidditch shop before we go-"
I knew I was rumbling, but I couldn't help it. I didn't want to go anywhere near that vault! I took back my previous words to Mr. Stoughton; I was most definitely not excited. I thought I was prepared for it, but I guess I wasn't. I didn't want to see, hear, smell or even think about that vault. Maybe Scorpius was right, I was frightened.
"No." Mr. Potter said sternly, "We are doing it now and that's that." He put his arm around me and I felt myself wince, still not used to being hugged and touched. " Come on, you young Black."
Jeez, thanks! Because that is exactly what I wanted to hear. I said nothing on the way to the vault, knowing there was anything I could say that could get me out of this mess. Maybe it was just my imagination, but the walk there seemed to be a lot shorter than the walk to the Malfoys'. I managed not to trip on the way there, which was already a sign, so I guess stalling was out of the question. Remind me to send a sarcastic Thanks to whoever is in charge!
Before I knew it we were there and I honestly thought I was going to vomit at any moment and yet, every fiber of hope was silently praying to not.
I looked up at my vaults door, trying to focus on one thing and not on the world moving around me. It looked similar to the Malfoy's vault, except that there was a huge family crest above it that sent shivers down my spine. Great! My family gives me the creeps! I looked up at the vaults number 1000. I sighed with relief; at least it wasn't a hard and complicated number to remember. There was a snake too, but unlike the others the eyes were made of a Green Emerald stone, a stone I couldn't place. Its eyes followed me, bearing in to my soul and mind. It was creepy and yet, it felt expected. I'm not sure how to explain it, but something in those eyes made me feel welcome, as if giving me permission to enter.
Hodder leaned forward and touched the wall of rock, closing his eyes. I watched as he muttered away from the corner of my eyes, but he didn't have my full attention. I stared into the eyes of the snake and I wasn't sure if it was just me or if the eyes were glowing brighter and brighter.
I was broken out of my daze by Hodder who was getting impatient.
" The protection of this vault has increased." He said ruefully.
I blinked and looked away from the green eyes, "So, what now?"
He removed his hand from the stone wall and looked at me with glee, "The blood of Black must be given as the last proof, after that the bond will seal and the vault shall be yours, but only if you carry the blood of a true Black." He said the last part with utter happiness, and I had an inkling of what was going through his head: Blood and rejection.
"But the Ancestral Find said that she was a Black." Mr. Potter argued confused at what this meant.
The goblin nodded his large head impatiently, "We know that, but the vault doesn't."
I frowned; he made it sound like the vault was alive, as though it was its own person. I looked back into the eyes of the snake and a feel of confidence washed over me; it was almost like I knew that it was going to be okay, that I would have control over what the Blacks owned.
I held out my hand to Hodder, "Fine then, let's get this over and done with."
I could feel the room grow cold as he pulled out the silver dagger and brought it to the palm of my hand. I wasn't shaking now as I did before, I knew deep down that I would be alright. I looked at my audience as the it went on, they all looked quite anxious and worried, maybe even a little outraged.
I felt the cold metal touch my skin and a cold and hot pain wash over it, I shudder but held my breath, refusing to look at had to be my blood as it washed over my hand. I could feel my stomach turn and I knew that if I even saw red I would be sick. I felt a drop of sweat run down my face as the pain finally hit me with full swing. I tried to find something constant so that I wouldn't say a word, that I wouldn't complain.
"Hand on the snakes head." Hodder ordered and I almost went blank with rage as I heard the slight joy in his voice.
I froze for a second before feeling a comfortable warmth washing over my other hand, I moved my head slowly to see Albus's face above mine, he looked down at me with eyes like the snake, beautiful green and reassuring, as though it would be alright.
"Hand on the snake, Aurora. Come on." He said quietly, his voice thick, hesitant, and yet calm. I searched his eyes behind his round spectacles as the pain and dizziness washed over me again. His voice echoed in my head and for some reason, I followed it.
Hand on the snake, Aurora. Come on.
Hand on the snake-
I turned to face the snake again and for once its eyes weren't as intoxicating, I preferred Albus's. I raised my hand and touched its head, warm blood met with the cold stone. I ignored the blood and found myself staring at my feet instead. It happened so suddenly that I wasn't sure if I could have prepared for it anyway. A blue light flashed in the darkness all around us and I felt my hair blow in the gush of wind that followed, it only lasted for a second but when it disappeared so did all the strength in my body. My knees gave in and I collapsed to the floor, my hand moving from the head. I kept my head hung and my eyes tightly shut, my black hair forming a veil around me.
"AURORA!" A choir of voices screamed at once, but I was too tired to answer them. I kept my head hung as the nausea washed over me stronger than ever before, my head became lighter and lighter and I felt as though my head was going to burst with pain. I felt Albus kneel beside me, his hand still tightly holding mine.
I felt him shake me a little, but I didn't move. I was too tired, I was too weak. I remember this feeling all too well, I always felt like this back with the Vampires. I felt as though my humanity, my strength and my soul disappeared along with every piece of life I had in me. My weaknesses, my fears and my hatred intensified. I guess the easiest way to explain it to you would be by asking you of that feeling you get when you sit or stand up too fast, that confused and dizzy feeling. But this took longer to disappear.
I felt people touching me, asking me if I was alright, asking me to say something, but I couldn't and I didn't want to. Couldn't they just leave me alone? Leave me to sleep?
I felt someone lift my head up and push my hair out of my face.
"Open your mouth." James said quietly, his hold wasn't tough and hard like I expected it to be, but more gentle and control as though he was afraid to hurt me.
My head rolled back on its own accord, I didn't feel like stopping it, I couldn't find anything, no muscle or feeling to stop it.
I heard him sigh, "Okay, if you're not going to try, I will for you." He said stubbornly.
I AM! I wanted to shout at him, BUT I CAN'T! THERE'S NOTHING TO MOVE!
I felt his hands tighten on my cheeks as he tried to open my mouth, it fell open and I felt something enter. I could taste it already, the sweet, creamy taste.
CHOCOLATE!
I swallowed and immediately I felt better, I could feel more energy surging through my body. I blinked and opened my eyes, to see James staring at me his eyes filled with compassion and worry. I felt awful already, knowing that I caused that worry.
I swallowed and then smiled slightly, feeling better and better as the seconds went on; I licked my lips," Mmmm, chocolate."
His face broke up into a brilliant smile and then a chuckled followed too, "I knew you would like that."
He laughed his normal loud laugh, but I could feel and hear the relief behind it. Albus helped me to my feet with help from Scorpius. I was still a little wobbly, but I refused their help further. I'm not disabled!
"How are you feeling?" Mr. Malfoy asked, his usual cold, blank grey eyes alight with concern.
Mrs. Potter however had turned on Hodder, her maternal instincts on a high, "Why'd that happen?"
The Goblin shot us all a haughty look, folding his arms and putting his nose in the air, "I shall not answer a witch-"
Mrs. Malfoy pulled out her wand and pointed it at him dangerously, her eyes glaring at him furiously, "Answer her."
Silence fell over the hallway, everyone was staring with admiration and anxiety between the two women and Hodder, I could feel a slight wave of panic coming off of the goblin and I couldn't blame him, you never mess with two ladies with wands or any weapons within a two mile radius.
It took thirty seconds for him to give in before he told us, "The vault has to take something of hers, be that blood or something more." He turned and gave me a steely stare, on that made me feel very uncomfortable. " This wasn't given to her from birth, until a few seconds ago the vault wasn't even aware of her existence, it needed more than the blood of the girl, it need a little taste of whatever other power she's hiding from us. It needed a part of her secret."
Silence fell over us for the second time within the last few minutes, all breathing came to a standstill and so did my heart. All eyes were on me, but my eyes were in him. I could see the curiosity that was felt in the air, or maybe it was everyone else's too. I couldn't see in lies or deceit radiating off his miniature body or shining from his eyes, but that doesn't explain why I could feel him hiding something. I didn't have any other secret power, I'm only a witch. I was nothing out of the ordinary or at least that's what I wanted to believe.
But then there was another voice, a colder and more sinister version of my own, whispering away in the back of my mind. I tried not to listen to it, but I couldn't, it was there and it wanted me to hear.
Oh, but you're not an ordinary witch, now are you? Ordinary witches don't have their families hunted down and killed. Ordinary witches don't have their mothers die to try and protect them or their brothers slaughtered. And what about your duty? Have you forgotten about that? What about the vampires and the poor imprisonment? And let's not forget about your other bonus abilities: The occasional mind reading and discussions? The wandless magic ? The ability to read the emotion and life from other people? And that's only the start of it all. So, much power awaits you all have to do is look for it. So no, Aurora. The vault took much more from you than just your blood, a lot more.
The voice disappeared quietly and I was left with only anger, an unreasoned anger. Anger for the questions that we going to start, just because of one Goblin that couldn't keep his mouth shut. I tilted my head to the side and looked deep in to his mind. I wasn't sure how, but I knew I was being ruthless. His eyes grew wide with panic as he suddenly realized what was going on, I could feel his body tighten as though it were my own. He put up shield quickly, but I crushed them within seconds. I could have laughed, but I was too far gone with the power to think of that. I tore my way through his memories, pictures of his family popped up but I tossed them away without a second glance, I had no time for that. I knew that the mind was a delicate object, an object that had to be handled with patience and care, but that was the slightly humorous part of it all: I didn't have the patience and I honestly couldn't care. I knew that if I used too much power and magic I could kill him on the spot, a part of me was curious to see if I could do it, see if it would work. Another was trying to fight it, it was a softer voice, but still it was there.
I could the Goblin panic as he could feel my hidden curiosity, for once his voice was worried, it was scared. I found comfort in that, it made me feel powerful, unstoppable
I read his thoughts or rather heard them:
WHY? They screamed and then carried on to ask for mercy, telling me he would do anything.
I felt myself smile cruelly, as I whispered softly in to his mind; Tell them you could be mistaken. Tell them or else I will rip your mind to pieces without a second thought.
His thoughts told me he would, but I still stayed in there just to make sure.
He cleared his throat and I could feel his fear echo in his mind. True and utter fear, I guess that's what snapped me out of it. I recoiled in to myself, leaving his mind gently, careful not to touch or damage anything further. I felt my heart quicken as I whispered my sincere apologies as I exited. I could feel the pain wash off of him and I took it as my own, leaving his mind perfectly intact. It was that voice, the cold, sinister one that told me too. I knew it! I wasn't that kind of person! I hated violence with a passion- I actually almost killed him…
The thought struck me as the guilt washed over me, like huge waves hitting the surface.
"Although, I could always be mistaken. Maybe we used too much blood instead." The Goblin said quickly and I almost whimpered. Those were my words with my threat behind them.
I wasn't evil. I couldn't be.
I entered his mind again, this time being so careful to not touch anything. Once I got to the section where I could speak, I almost started sobbing right there.
I'm sorry! I am so sorry! I didn't mean it, I promise! I cried out, with all the sincerity that I had to offer. I was filled with guilt and confusion. That wasn't me, it couldn't be.
I know. He answered back, his voice was calm, but his mind was wary. What I didn't tell you about the blood ritual were that not only did you give something to the vault, but the Ancient Family of Black gave what was there's to you. But in order for that to work you had to have a piece of that within you already. There was a reason why the Blacks turned out to be the best at most things, such as dueling. That was because they all inherited something of a few members of their family, not all but a few. But in order for you to get it you must possess a piece of it, hidden somewhere.
That's why most of them turned out evil, isn't it? They inherited a piece of cruelty from someone else in the family? I asked, but I knew the answers anyway.
Yes, but remember it had to already be there already. He answered back with a sigh.
I'm sorry! I said again, loudly. I really am!
I know and that's why you have to make me forget about it.
What! I gasped shocked at what he was asking me.
You know what I mean He replied in his normal growling tone. Make me forget, you know the spell, all you need to do is say it.
I refused, NO! This is my fault! What if I do it wrong? What if I erase too much? Your family, friends-
Stop being a brat and do it! You have to! He growled back, getting angrier and angrier. It has to be your secret only. No one must find out about it and you've seen the strength of my walls, anyone could easily break them down and see what you've done.
But-
Wait until I turn around to open the vault and then do it, but only the part of you being in my head nothing more. He said, interrupting me.
I can't-
You will or I will tell them what happened and the possible outcome would not be too good.He said finally.
Y-You can't. I gasped, would he really do that?
I will.
I knew he would, there was nothing stopping him. Maybe I deserved it? I thought about killing someone, be that intentional or not, but I did and I was sorry. I knew I wouldn't ever allow myself to lose control like that again, it was scary and he almost died because I got sadistic and curious. But, why was it now? Was it true, that I was given something back, an evil desire from my family? But, then there had to be a piece of that inside me already, was this just a trigger? I shuddered. How could I face the Potters, Malfoys, Weasleys or anyone else, knowing that I possessed something within me to kill them? No! I won't! It just caught me off guard, that's it. It won't happen again! I won't let it!
Do it then! He commanded me and I knew that my mind had already been made up.
Okay, I whispered. I had to do this and besides. Besides, it's not like I'm doing it behind his back, he said I must, so I am…
He turned around to face the vault readying to open it. This was it. I entered his mind again and whispered a last word before he forgot it along with this whole incident. I breathed in and then out, remembering my entering and focusing only on that. I was ready, I knew I was, but then why did I feel as though I shouldn't be doing this?
One…
Two…
Three…
Thank you, I whispered with all my heart. He already knew I was sorry, but now he at least new that I was thankful too. I shut my eyes and whispered the spell mentally, Obliviate.
I jumped out of there as soon as I said the spell, terrified that I could get trapped and something could go wrong. My eyes flashed open as I visualized the white of the spell come into his head along with mine. I panicked for a moment before realizing that I was fine, or at least remember what I had to remember. I let out a sigh of relief before remembering that I wasn't in there alone, I looked closely at Hodder worried that something had gone wrong. His whole body was frozen and I almost let out a cry of relief when he started moving again. I knew everyone was looking at me, I could feel their eyes bearing in to my head, but it didn't matter. I was lost in the emotions that overtook me, the guilt, joy, fear, sorrow, worry, anxiousness and pure remorse.
I couldn't let that happen to me again!
"Aurora, are you okay?" Lily asked her voice was filled with concern that I didn't deserve.
No, no I wasn't.
"She's crazy that's what she is." Hodder mumbled under his breath and I could feel the anger radiating off of everyone in the room, but for me it just made me relieved. He was okay and that's all that mattered.
I knew that they would reply, standing up for me and all, but he was right, I was crazy for a moment back there. Hodder was saved from any rude insults as the doors of my vault started opening, slowly creaking open. I looked in as the vault opened and there it was everything that now belonged to me. Shelves filled with crowns, jewelry, coins, swords staked on top. Tables with armor, piles of odd shaped coins, diamonds and papers that probably held important knowledge. Every corner was occupied and I finally understood their definition of 'a lot', my definition was blown out the non-existing window.
I didn't know what I was going to do with all of it, it's not like I needed it all that much. Maybe I would buy the Potters, Weasleys and Malfoys something, but they have enough money to buy it themselves if they wanted to. But that wasn't my biggest concern at the moment.
"Welcome to your glories and riches, Ms. Black." Mr. Potter announced grinning like a mad man.
Maybe it was from the fall this morning, the blood ritual , the mind entering situation or the oblivation spell, but before I could send out a warning my stomach did the talking for me.
The vomit poured out of my mouth with such speed that I didn't have time to aim for anywhere in particular and it ended up going straight. My knees buckled from under me again and I felt the second round come my way. I didn't know who I was currently being sick on, but I knew he or she didn't like it very much. I heaved and heaved until that round was over and then looked up, to see who was in front of me.
Hodder stood his mouth open and face full of shock, surprise and disgust. What a bad day for him.
I stared up at him and felt another wave come my way, " I'm- I'm so sor-sorry." I muttered earnestly before I was taken over by a new vile round.
" NO!" He bellowed, but it was too late. He was covered from head to toe in my breakfast, lunch and dinner.
"You can go, I swear!" I exclaimed loudly for the umpteenth time, he opened his mouth to protest, but I beat him to it, "I'll be in the bookshop anyway and I know you would probably die of boredom within three seconds."
We had left Gringotts a few minutes ago after I had a full check up from Mrs. Potter and Mr. Malfoy, I had told them that it was because of the sight of blood to get them off my case. I don't think I was very convincing, but whatever. Amanda has taken the liking of calling me Puking Person, which was just so unoriginal to be honest, I could tell that even James was getting annoyed with her.
"Yeah, but still." James moaned loudly, "Everyone else ditched you already, I can't do it too! I have a reputation to keep you know." He turned and winked at me.
It was true, the parents went to have some shops for the Send- Off party and Lily and Hugo went with them, Rose and Scorpius went to a Quidditch Shop of some sort , Albus and Amanda went o a date and James was stuck with me… The joy.
I rolled my eyes, "And what's that?"
"A knight in shining armor for damsels in distress." He said seriously, before laughing away.
I laughed too, Yeah James, if only you knew how much distress I'm currently in.
"I highly doubt I would be in need of your services though, Mr. Potter. I will be surrounded my books-" I started to say, but he cut me off.
"All the more reason to protect you, books are evil." He said deadpanned.
I rolled my eyes, "No they're not. The worst thing that could happen is one falling on to my head."
He apparently found this hilarious and laughed aloud attracting strange looks from passer-byers ,
"Knowing you with your luck that's most likely to happen."
I wacked him over the head, "No it won't! I'll be extra careful, I promise."
He looked at me with a serious face, no jokes, nothing. "It sounds as though you are trying to get rid of me."
Yes.
"No, I just want to be able to read in peace and you won't be all that quiet." I stated, this was the half truth, but at least it was a version of it.
He chewed his bottom lip and frowned, thinking. He looked over my shoulder at the book shop and then said slowly, "Okay, I guess you're right. Quiet doesn't do it for me," He laughed, but then sobered up, "And you'll stay in the book shop?"
I nodded, " Well, yeah. Seeing as my intention is to read."
He ignored my witty comment and carried on, "You won't do anything dangerous?"
I rolled my eyes, "Who knows maybe I might get a paper cut."
"Not funny." He narrowed his eyes, "Fine, but remember to meet everyone back at Madam Malkin's Robes shop in an hour, okay? You do remember where it is though?"
No.
"Yes, of course I do. I'm Aurora." I gave him my best smirk. "See you in an hour at Madam Malkin's Robes."
He nodded watching me head for the door of the bookshop, I was about to enter when I heard him call out for me, "Aurora?"
I turned around, he was exactly where I left him, his face showed he was worried, his eyes did too. "Are you okay?"
I let out an internal sigh.
No.
"Yes. Now go have fun and don't worry." I gave him my best fake smiled and waved him off. Entering the book shop without a glance back. I meant every work of what I said, he should go have fun and not have to worry about me. I was worrying for the both of us. I was alone with my little secret, my dangerous secret.
The shop was beautiful, or at least to me. The high shelves were filled with every different type and kind of books, every color and any author. There were comfy chairs in the corner next to the class of the shop and I knew that I would soon inhabit one of them soon. Children were running around collecting books for school, everyone left me alone and I liked it, I needed it. I scanned the shelves in the shop until I found the section I was looking for.
I was now standing in the deserted section of Mindreading and Hypnotism against the glass window of the shop. I wasn't sure yet what I was looking for exactly, but I knew something useful had to be in here somewhere. I looked up and read the names and titles of all the books, until I found it. There on the top shelf, a book that could help.
The Ways of the Mind- Sir Neptune Black
My heart stopped. This had to work; it must have something to help me. I couldn't get power hungry, not at all. Not now not ever.
I stretched on my tiptoes to reach the book, but it made no difference. I couldn't grab it.
NO! I NEED THAT BOOK! I tried to jump and grab it, but I couldn't. I stopped and looked around for someone to help, but no one was there. I chewed on my lip before coming to a conclusion. Now, I advise that you never do this, seeing as books are actually really precious and should not be used as a stand. I grabbed three of the thickest books I could find and stacked them onto each other. Once I was positive that they wouldn't tumble over the moment I stepped on them, I climbed up and reached for the book. I was almost there, so close that I could literally feel the warmth of it radiating off of it.
"Almost there." I muttered, my breath was uneven and I felt my body tire more from the activity of getting the book.
The tip of my finger grazed the spin when a hand shot out and grabbed it right out of my sight. I frowned and jumped off the stack of books, looking for the thief. I came face to face with the most handsome guy I had ever met.
He looked to be a bit older than me, not more than a year at my calculations. He was tall and nicely tanned, his skin a warm golden color, he had muscles in all the right places that showed off nice through his pale grey color top and his light brown hair was slightly curly but made him look even more handsome and kind. His face was almost picture perfect, high cheek bones with a touch of pink on the tips, his nose was long and straight, his lips were full and a beautiful rose pink color. But what struck me most were his eyes. His eyes were almond shape and the color violet. I had seen those eyes before, I was sure of it. I had seen him before, I was absolutely positive. I knew him, maybe from a memory or a dream, but he looked so familiar.
I knew him…
So, What do you think?
Any thoughts on Aurora's bad behaviour or Hodder? The stranger and her thoughts on him? More chapters or Hogwart time? The black give and take or just the chapteer in general.
Always in a rush,
Prongslet4life