Ascension: Rogues of the Fallen Sun

by Define Anachronistic

(AU) After the traumatic end to his first year, Harry Potter is a man on the run, pursued by friends, foes, and forces unknown. But that's only the most immediate of his problems. Ancient monsters, Rogues, escaped convicts, and Witch-Hunters are all waiting for him over the horizon. His second year is shaping up to be even crazier than his first.

19. Chapter 19

INTERLUDE VIII

He could feel the weight of Mei's eyes upon him even now.

As he sat by Harry's bedside, carefully monitoring the child's fever, he could feel her gaze boring into the back of his head. "If you have something to say, Mei Wen, then-" Just like the impatient young woman he had first met, she quickly interrupted him.

"Why go through all this trickery?" She demanded. "Why lie to him about this?"

Nicolas glanced back, only to see her glaring at him from the open doorway. "You were in his mind. You've seen what he's experienced. Tell me, do you think he will react well if he ever discovers that his journey to the Hollow was all an elaborate illusion?"

Mei grunted. "Exactly! He'll figure it out eventually-"

It was Nicolas' turn to interrupt her. "If that day ever comes, and that is a big if, he will be old enough and learned enough to see himself for the mistreated child that he was. Look at him, Mei." He gestured to the young, pale boy who was sweating through his clothes as he slept fitfully, his body fighting the lingering effects of Mei's Mana. "He's just a boy. He deserves peace, but for reasons outside of his control, I don't think he will ever have it. Doesn't he at least deserve to have his mind safe from his demons?"

Mei pinched her nose. "Trauma comes from helplessness, and it is only cured by taking back power." She quoted.

Nicolas smiled at her, surprised. "You still remember my teachings? I'm touched." His light tone hid the truth in his words.

She scowled at him. "Don't think I haven't realised this was all an elaborate test. Sending that Vampire girl to meet him. Tempting him with Necromancy." She shook her head in disgust. "What would you have done to him if he had chosen to kill that Werewolf?"

Nicolas' expression remained the same, but his eyes were as cold as his tone as he answered simply, "Only what I must."

Mei shook her head and she turned to leave. "After all these years, I still can't decide if you are a good man, or a manipulative monster."

Nicolas wondered if being considered both was too much to ask for.