"I'll walk away stronger..."
--Martina McBride, "From the Ashes"
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Though it seemed otherwise impossible, the air in the hall grew colder like an approaching winter. Rowena hovered over Rose like she herself were a blanket with the sole purpose of protecting Rose. But for herself, Rose simply huddled in a shaking ball of tears and harsh breathing. That breathing filled the stone halls until Rowena thought she would go deaf. "Rose, please! What did you see?" The woman's talent as a seer was legendary. "What did you see?"
Rose shook her head, scarcely hearing Rowena. "She's my niece, for heaven's sake! You need to protect her! It's going to happen! And Helga–"
"Helga." Rowena nodded. "Yes, I'll get Helga. I'll bring her right back here." Though, to be honest, she was beginning to find this incident on the side of ridiculous. But she shouldn't. After all, Rose was a seer.
"No!" Rose clasped Rowena's left hand tightly. "Helga can't go, either! She'll..."
"I don't understand." Forget the ridiculous. Rowena herself could hardly breathe. And all she had wanted to do was find out where her daughter had crawled off to! The best she could with her pregnant body, Rowena slid an arm under Rose's and hoisted her off the ground. Rose seemed to awaken some, and her feet skittered over the stones until she found a sort of half-balance. "Come on, Rose. You are tired and you had a fright. You're going to lie down now. You see? Just lie down and you'll be fine."
Rose's head fella against Rowena's shoulder. "My head hurts..."
"You'll be fine."
"Don't let Latiya go. I didn't know that she was..."
"I'll lock the child in a dungeon if I have to," Rowena promised. "I'll..."
Something was not right. In took a fraction of a second for that fact to be known. Rowena paused, and even Rose seemed to know that something–something else– was wrong. For a brief moment it seemed the castle would collapse in on them.
She reached for her wand.
And as she did, the spell blasted into her back.
The baby was down for his nap. Heather yawned and tiptoed softly from the cradle where her son was cooing into some dream. Hopefully he would stay that way. And hopefully a bad dream wouldn't lend itself to some horrified blast of magic. From an infant, of all people. Heather thought she would be use to such incidents by now, with all her children and her idiot wizard of a husband, but perhaps it was something a Muggle like herself would never become accustomed to. She was proud of her children's abilities, of course, but there were sometimes when Carnation was making a rat she had found grow to a grotesque size that she couldn't help but wish that one babe had been void of any magical tendencies.
She reached the door and closed it gently behind her. Already she could see that beast of a spirit floating above her. Oh, he had better not wake Darren. Heather put a finger to her lips, only to have Peeves mimic her. Oh, well. He preferred tormenting those who would give him more of a reaction. But the baby had refused to sleep for so long...
"Someone's watching you," Peeves said in a sing-song voice. His glowing face nodded down the hallway.
She did not have the time. She sighed and turned to go the other way. It was strange enough living in this odd little castle, but the children had fun and...
"Imperio!"
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"You are a most intriguing girl, you realize. I had never much thought of witches of the north country, but you... you are intriguing and beautiful besides."
Helga had never really longed for flattery, but she couldn't help but smile as she reached for another kiss. She had never met someone quite like Ranem Black, either, and to be perfectly honest she didn't feel like much more than a common whore. But so far nothing had happened and she didn't intend to let it. But there was something delightful about an innocent little tryst in the astrology tower. It was nearing sunset and the tower might as well have been on fire. All the more romantic. "I bet you tell that to all the witches."
"Hardly. At least, not for a few years. At least I haven't felt the same way about the as I have felt about you." He pushed her harder against the wall and pressed his lips tighter against hers.
She felt like laughing and made a weak and teasing attempt to push him away that only led to her arms massaging the back of his shoulders. Then she broke apart for much needed breath. "Liar."
He did laugh, soft and murmuring, as if anything louder would break the spell. "Maybe, maybe not. But do you care?"
"Not really. To be honest, I've thought you quite handsome ever since you first came to Hogwarts."
"Now you are the liar, my darling."
She kissed him in an effort to silence him. No, she had not been a liar. The truth was that Godric was married to Rowena and there was no longer any point in chasing him. The truth was that Helga was very beautiful and Ranem was not the first man to look upon her with interest; it wasn't the same violent beauty that possessed Rowena, but hers was a sweetness men seemed to prefer. Another teacher, in fact, by the sole name of David, already blushed whenever she came into his presence. Ranem, at least, pursued her, and that was something she liked. Godric had never dared pursue her. Besides, Ranem was handsome and intelligent. He was interesting to be around. After all, they had kept this up for the past month. Her hands slid up his shoulder and neck to his hair, pale brown and wonderfully soft. She threaded it between her fingers like silk.
Ranem's kisses moved to her neck. Giggling, she guided his head into her shoulder. "What if we get caught?"
"By whom? Gryffindor?"
In a way, she almost hoped so. In a way, this would be perfect revenge. "Well, by anyone. Though I suppose enough students have seen us."
"We've made sure of that. And I don't even understand why. Helga, you are going to gain a reputation."
"Only to replace the one Rowena lost when she married."
"So you're telling me that you wish to be the last Rowena?"
She kissed his forehead. "I'm only saying that I wish to be with you."
"I wish the same thing." He raised his head and kissed her mouth once more. And held it for what seemed to be an eternity that ended too soon. "Unfortunately, for tonight, I must go. I promised a student I would tutor her privately."
"Oh." That was all right. "Well, then, you musn't be late, then."
He was already heading toward the door. When he reached it, he bowed. "Farewell, my lady."
She waved back and laughed. "Farewell!"
And then she found herself alone in the tower. The sun had nearly finished setting, and the stars were appearing in the dark blue sky that still hovered with drops of fire. She made her way to the balcony, still feeling a happy sort of silly. It had been so long since she had last been in love. Did Ricky even count anymore?
No. She could no longer think of him. She must think of Ranem.
And that was a lovely thought. Very, very exciting.
Yes, she definitely loved Ranem now.
She stared out over the lake for what seemed like hours.
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Latiya wasn't precisely sure what Ranem had meant by "tonight", but she supposed that the earlier she were there the safer she would be. She snuck out after sunset, carrying her wand and wearing the ridiculously huge cloak Helga had allowed her to have. Several girls asked her where she was off to, but lost interest when she said it was studying. Which wasn't a complete lie. Ranem was a teacher, and she would be learning something.
Learning something to protect the school. Her heart beat faster as she thought of this. Because of her, Hogwarts would be safe forever.
Well, that wasn't exactly what Ranem had said, her imagination did plenty of work, but it was certainly a hope. As she walked through the tunnels, she laughed and threw out whatever spells she could think of against the walls. One of the older boys had discovered that some time ago: a spell game, making walls, doors, and stairways move even more than she did. But as she neared the castle's main door, fewer and fewer spells poured from her wand.
And then she was outside. The sky above held no stars, only clouds that showed something of a full moon forcing its way through. She didn't matter, the night was lovely enough, and she felt so powerful in that cloak! She broke into a run and sped to the lake's edge, cloak trailing out behind her like a ghost.
Ranem was already there. And, to Latiya's surprise, her aunt Heather.
Latiya, confused, waved at her. Heather smiled and returned the wave.
But Heather was a Muggle. What did she have to do with this? Oh, well.
Ranem stood at the water's edge, so close that the black water actually licked at his boots. He wore a black cloak, rather similar to Latiya's. He stared out over the lake, watching.
Latiya was rather hurt that Heather would notice her when Ranem didn't. She stood where she was for a few moments, then softly clearer her throat. "Ranem, sir. Black."
He turned, smiling knowingly. Latiya instantly felt important. "Ah, Lady Weasley. Can I call you that?"
She giggled. She liked that name.
"I thought so. I'm so glad you could come. Tonight, I'm going to tell you something very important."
She held her breath. Here it came.
He stepped closer to her, then bent down so that his face was aligned with hers. "Latiya, you are someone very special. I know. You have a desire to protect this school."
Of course she did. "I named it!"
He laughed. Actually threw his head back and laughed. "That's what I understood! All the more we need your help."
"We?"
A wind picked up, thrashing through the tree branches like a pack of howling wolves. It was getting cold.
Ranem nodded. The wind did not seem to bother him. "Yes, we. I'm from the Order of the Phoenix. It has many factions, as you know, one of whom is determined, because of a mere prophecy that won't come true for centuries, to close this school."
"But the school is much more important!" She knew what the answer would be.
"Exactly. So I'm going to ask you something. I admit that this is a difficult choice to make, and it is entirely your choice. I will not think any less of you if you tell me no."
She had already decided she would say yes. "What must I do?"
He took a deep breath and closed his eyes. He seemed to be thinking. Then he opened them again, so that they met against hers. "What would you do for this school?"
She straightened herself up to her full height. "Anything."
"Would you give your life?"
She nodded. There was no doubt in her mind. Heroes gave their lives. Heroes gave everything.
He seemed to like that answer. "Would you give your eternal soul?"
Heroes gave everything. She nodded.
And so did he. "Good. I suspected your bravery and your goodness, but I admit I had no idea of how truly wonderful you were."
Latiya realized that she was shaking. But it was a wonderful feeling. She was shaking with excitement.
Ranem pulled out his wand and whirled it around. Soon a raft appeared. He extended his hand to her. "Come, Lady Weasley. We'll begin. Don't worry, your aunt will remain on the shore to watch you."
Heather hadn't spoken a single word.
Latiya greedily took Ranem's hand, and he guided her onto a raft. There was no room to sit, but she was not afraid of falling. The raft took off from the shore, moving with an invisible current that couldn't possibly exist on the lake.
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"Latiya!" Godric screamed as he darted from the main door. Helga was at his side, silent and running faster than he had ever seen her. Marigold was behind them, sobbing. Godric could not blame her–of course she was afraid! What mother wouldn't be? He screamed again, almost afraid of losing the sight of his cousin as she drifted out onto the lake. "Latiya!"
She didn't hear him. Couldn't hear him. Odd. He had sent it out with magic. The girl should be able to hear him, no matter where she was. He tried again. "Latiya! Oh, Helga, I can't reach her!"
Helga's frown tensed, but she didn't reply.
"We have to stop her!" Marigold said between tears. "What is she doing out there? With that man? What is going on?"
It couldn't be good. That was the one thing Godric knew. It could not be good.
A storm was brewing. He could feel it in the air. People had been watching the sky for a week, and they had not predicted this, this thing that had come out of nowhere. The wind was faster now, almost deadly, and he could barely keep his eyes open. "Latiya!"
No answer. The sound of the wind-blown trees seemed to absorb all other sound. He stared at them the best he could through squinted eyes. If the wind was any stronger, the black whips the trees had become would be ripped right from the ground. He clenched his teeth and ran harder. Why was the lake suddenly so far away?
It had seemed such a normal evening. All he had wanted to do was put Mary down for a nap. Then someone had come to him, crying. He had followed the child only to find his wife and his mother unconscious in a hallway. Barely had he found a place for them to rest then...
He couldn't get the look on Helga's face out of his mind.
She had seen something from the astrology tower. Ranem, Heather, and Latiya out on the lake. She hadn't trusted it.
Neither had Godric.
He pushed himself harder. Finally, the lake was creeping into view. And Heather... Heather just stood there!
Finally Helga spoke. "Heather! What's going on?"
Heather did not move. She only stared at them.
"Heather, please!" Marigold was screaming again.
Godric did not slow as he approached the bank. The raft was in the middle of the lake now, and Ranem had his wand... "Latiya!" he screeched. "Ranem!"
Ranem looked up, but Latiya made no motion.
He had the girl under a spell. What spell?
The water was in a rage now. It would knock the raft over and Latiya would drown. Furious, he dove into the water and began swimming for the raft.
He almost thought he would drown immediately. The water forced itself at his lungs, but he knew plenty of spells for air. If only he could get threw this water... the lake itself demanded his expulsion. From somewhere behind him, he heard another splash.
Gasping, he pulled up. He was only feet from the raft now. Ranem stood there, before Latiya, chanting something, his wand aglow and touching Latiya's forehead.
And there was Helga, actually clambering up the raft, screaming Latiya's name.
Except her eyes were on Ranem.
Ranem laughed.
Latiya seemed asleep.
Godric kept swimming, his brain demanding to know what was going on. All he knew was that it was wrong. Horribly, horribly wrong. "Helga!"
A wave rose from the lake's surface, black and at least six feet high. It collapsed on top of him. He was pushed under, so deeply under it was black. He kicked his feet as hard as he could and reached again for the surface. Another wave, batter down on him, bubbles and currents that failed to collapse at the surface but poured down after him with as much force as ever.
The lake was going to kill him.
He needed air. Bubble head charm. Simple enough. Though it seemed almost ready to pop as the waves continued against him. Still he fought until he thought his arms and legs would fall off. The air was there, but strength... he felt his head growing light and...
He was back on the shore. The charm fell away, and he choked the water he had absorbed anyway before sinking into the mud.
But he couldn't do that. Latiya. Helga.
"Ricky!" He felt arms moving to lift him up. "Ricky, are you all right? Is Latiya...?" Marigold stopped speaking for a moment. "Heather!"
Godric looked up to see the stony smoothness of a knife, clenched tightly in Heather's hands.
"No!" He wasn't sure if the scream was his. He tried to stand.
The blade slid across Marigold's neck. Blood splattered all over Godric.
"No!" This time he was on his feet, grabbing for his aunt's body. She collapsed into his arms like a rag doll, blood squirting like a fountain. Her eyes were open and blank. She was already dead.
Slowly Godric let Marigold slide to the earth. He couldn't take his gaze off of her. His heart pounded, and he felt the screaming inside of his head. From behind him he could hear nothing. Heather still did nothing. He finally turned to look at her. And that's when he did scream.
The blood covered her, and still she did nothing.
She was under a spell.
And she was raising the knife again.
With a final yell Godric grabbed her arm with one hand and his wand with another. She shouted in defiance and twisted toward him, but he blasted her away. She fell against a tree.
He did not wait to see if she were all right. The knife had fallen at his feet. He picked it up and jumped back into the lake. This time he was prepared for the waves. No matter what they did, he was stronger. He moved toward the raft, his only thought the destination. His eyes would not leave it. And then he was there. He grabbed the sides and pulled himself up.
Latiya lay on the raft, eyes closed, black cloak covering all of her but her eyes and nose. Helga was crouched over her, but those blue eyes were on Ranem.
"I loved you!" she screamed. "I loved you!"
Ranem just laughed. "You were a foolish girl. You were pretty, but foolish."
"What did you do?" Godric shouted. He jumped onto the raft, wand before him. He had actually swum with it. "What are you?"
Ranem held out his own wand in defense, but his smile was perfect. "I am simply a man seeking protection and revenge. My protection... this innocent girl here, no longer innocent." He gestured at Latiya.
Tears poured from Helga's eyes. "You monster," she whispered. "What did you do to her?"
"It was what she did to herself. She gave me her soul."
The most wicked of dark magic. Godric felt sick.
"But it is for good," Ranem continued. "She'll protect this school, she and those like her. There are many. When they die, and it won't be long for her, they'll continue to protect the school."
"Hogwarts means that much to you?" Helga asked. She looked sicker than Godric felt. "I should kill you! I should kill you know! You're sick!"
"The innocent ones are those we need," Ranem explained. "Latiya was the epitome of innocence. Innocence can be used for the greatest evil, you realize."
Godric still had the knife. "You put the Imperious Curse on Heather Evans. You did this to Latiya. You killed her mother."
"Heather Evans was only to stop people from getting out of here. Consider it a blessing that Marigold is dead. Not all react well when they learn what has happened to their children."
Even as he watched, Godric could see changes taking place in Latiya's face. Her skin seemed... darker. She was no longer breathing. But she wasn't dead.
Muttering something under her breath, Helga climbed to her feet. " I promised her once that I would protect her. I'm going to kill you."
"But I thought you loved me."
Godric shoved the knife into Ranem's chest the moment Ranem slammed his own knife into Helga.
Godric was not able to scream. Neither was Helga. She tumbled from the raft into the now-calm water, blood oozing down her chest.
"Helga!" Leaving Ranem's twitching body on the raft, he dove in after her. She was light, so light. He had forgotten. He held her to him with one arm and paddled with the other.
The shore seemed almost too close. He heaved her onto the shore and fell beside her. He only allowed himself a moment's rest for air. "Helga! Please, Helga, stay with me." He ran his hands down her face to her chest where the wound was, pale red of blood and water.
Her eyelids fluttered. "Latiya," she whispered.
Latiya.
She repeated the name again, this time as a scream. "Latiya!"
Godric ripped her robe away, not caring how inappropriate it would seem. He had never stopped loving her, not really. The blood was growing stronger.
"Ricky."
He stared up into Jonas' face. He had never seen Jonas look so old. And so hated.
Godric held Helga closer to his chest, her wet hair tangling in his fingers. "Is this it?" he hissed. "Is this it? Is this the event Mother saw?"
Jonas slowly, sadly, nodded. "We didn't think–"
"It wasn't supposed to happen." He wanted to scream, but the scream wasn't happening. "You said that if I married Rowe, this wouldn't happen."
"We were wrong."
"Of course you were wrong. You were wrong in everything. You... you..." He couldn't think of anything else to say. Marigold was dead. Latiya was gone. Helga... The wind had died down, and night birds began their songs.
Another figure appeared behind Jonas, and for a moment Godric thought it was a ghost.
"I'm too late," Salazar whispered. "I didn't know."