Duel of Destinies
For a bit, things got real tense at Hogwarts. After that big mess, I ended up as Slytherin's top troublemaker. The smart ones steered clear, not wanting to mess with what they didn't know, while the not-so-smart ones were still shook by what happened in Filch's office.
Then along came Delphini, a real thorn in my side. She'd bug me every time I took a swig of that fancy Luck Potion, Felix Felicis.
Once she figured out I hadn't even had any, she and the other Slytherins started thinking I had some sort of weird lucky magic, like a secret power from the Black Family.
Hah, let 'em make up their own stories.
Thankfully, the older Slytherin students didn't bother themselves with our first-year squabbles. It seemed like they couldn't care less about our petty dramas.
And then there was the whole mysterious deal with Lucian Bale, their Quidditch star, who tragically passed away. That put a stop to anyone daring to give Harry Potter a lesson like Lucian tried to.
On the flip side, Hufflepuff totally caught me off guard with their reaction after the whole incident. They fell for my fake tears like I was selling discount mangoes.
I mean, seriously, they had no clue I was putting on an act. They genuinely felt bad and started treating me as if I were a delicate glass figurine, all fragile and precious.
Those Hufflepuffs were seriously acting suspiciously nice.
Seems like they missed the whole part about me riling up Slytherin. Instead, they jumped to the wild conclusion that Slytherin was hassling me simply because I was a Hufflepuff (go figure) and pals with the infamous Boy Who... well, you know, got ditched.
Ahem, I mean Harry Potter.
So, poof! Just like that, all the hard feelings between me and the other Hufflepuff first-years vanished into thin air.
Guess I really ought to quit underestimating the power of Ultimate Luck.
Yeah, that Ultimate Luck of mine? It's a double-edged wand. Sure, it's got my back when I need it, but it also takes a jab at me now and then – stubbed toes, clumsy slips, goofy face-plants, you name it.
Turns out, this Luck thing likes to stock up its magic by tossing a few minor miseries my way, and then boom, out of the blue, it hits me with a burst of good luck. And the kicker? I've got zero say in how it works. I just gotta put all my faith in it, like I did a few days ago.
Honestly, I had no clue Professor McGonagall was swooping in. I was dead serious about trusting my Luck.
And wouldn't you know it, that trust paid off big time.
Once again, under the moon's soft glow, I found myself lounging in the hallway, my Presence Concealment keeping me well hidden. It's a delicate balance, though – if someone's actively searching for me, I'm as good as found. So, I tread extra carefully.
"Myrtle, you're looking surprisingly chipper today," I remarked to my ethereal companion, who floated alongside me, wearing an uncommonly cheerful expression. "Something good happened?"
"Oh, Halloween's on its way, you see. It's like a special power-up day for us ghosts. We get a major boost in mojo for that one night, and we can even throw our weight around in the physical world," she responded instantly, her smile as bright as a lantern.
Ah, Halloween, right. Isn't that when the Trolls typically show up? But how's that going to play out in this particular timeline? No Quirrelmort here. Instead, we've got Rowena, a rather attractive teacher, who may or may not be channeling my dear old mother's spirit.
The plot thickens...
"Hey, how about a second date?" I suggested, a playful grin on my face. Her delighted squeal gave me the answer I was counting on.
But you see, this date wasn't just me winging it. If the rumors about ghosts getting stronger on Halloween were true, then I needed to study them – really understand them. Who knows, it might even unlock new abilities or skills for me. There's one particular power I'm after: soul magic.
I get it, it sounds like a tired trope straight out of a fanfiction, but soul magic is my key to dealing with my mother's pesky Horcruxes. Oh, and guess what? I stumbled onto the fact that Nasuverse lore got mixed into this magical mash-up. There's this supercharged version of soul magic known as the Heaven's Feel.
Think about it – the ability to bring souls into the real world. A True Magician with that power can practically rewrite reality. So, I figure I should start small, with the basics of soul magic.
When you put it side by side with the Heaven's Feel, my mother's Horcruxes start to look like a joke. Her brand of "immortality" doesn't even come close to the real deal.
You've got a point – calling it "immortality" when you're still vulnerable to being killed is quite the stretch. Anchoring your soul to the living world and avoiding the afterlife doesn't exactly make you immortal, huh?
Honestly, even vampirism sounds like a more tempting option for everlasting life than messing around with your soul like that.
So, here's my personal vow: no matter how enticing the power may be, I'm steering clear of soul manipulation. That's why I'm diving into learning soul magic – I want to get a good grip on how souls work, so I can be darn sure of what not to do.
And let's be clear, I might have promised not to mess with my own soul, but that still leaves all the other souls out there fair game for my magical adventures.
"What's up with you? You're looking like you're prepping for a goat sacrifice or something," Myrtle's excited voice jolted me from my thoughts, and I turned to give her a curious glance.
"Do you actually accept sacrifices?" I couldn't help but ask, a mix of intrigue and disbelief showing on my face. But I quickly shook my head, suddenly feeling drained. "Eh, never mind. I'm getting a bit worn out, so catch you later, alright?" I put on a somewhat adorable expression, masking my minor irritations. "And seriously, thanks for being my tour guide to all those hidden classrooms and storerooms." This time, my gratitude was heartfelt.
"Sure thing!" Her cheerful voice rang out, full of bubbling enthusiasm. "Catch you around!"
And with that, she gracefully descended, heading down toward the second-floor bathroom where she was haunting.
For all the perks and advantages that come with this ghostly connection, Myrtle... well, she's a character, to say the least. Sigh. Who would've thought that even after existing for such a long time, ghosts still manage to maintain their unique brand of teenage eccentricity? It seems that if you're a bit dim in life, you're destined to be a dim ghost.
By traveling major part of the Legendary castle of Hogwarts, you unlocked Minimap
"Hey, cool!" I exclaimed, glancing up slightly from my left eye. A map materialized, reminiscent of the video game maps I vividly remembered from my past life. It had all the works – zoom, tilt, and even the ability to drop a tag.
The catch? The map only displayed places I'd already explored.
And here's the real kicker: the standout feature was its ability to reveal other entities on the map. Little icons in red, blue, and even gold dotted its surface. But there's no way I'm diving into that at dawn, especially when curfew's still a thing.
Time to make a tactical retreat, unless I want to draw the attention of a whole different ghost from another night. Just hold on, you mischievous spirits – once I've got a handle on Soul Magic, I'll give you a show like no otheer.
--666--
What a delightful morning to kick things off. Warming up with some pleasant moments, then diving into two classes alongside Hermione – and of course, having a friendly dispute about whether muggle science could ever outshine good old magic.
"But come on, you can't deny the progress muggles have made. Professor Lily's presentation was mind-blowing. They're whipping up machines, venturing into space, even setting foot on the moon. Can you name any magical folk who've done that?" She challenged, deftly taking out my pawn with her bishop. Well played, didn't see that coming.
Turns out, she's had a knack for chess since she was eleven. Who would've thought?
"You're right, no wizard I know of has pulled off that moon landing stunt. Rockets, nukes, and robots might be flashy, but let's not forget we've been casually playing with quantum science since way back when. While muggles were begging for divine help with their ailments, we were whipping up potions left and right."
I leaned in, a triumphant smirk tugging at my lips as I declared, "Checkmate."
She slumped onto the grassy field, letting out a mix of exasperation and defeat. We'd managed to sneak away from the library during our free time, embracing the joys of acting like kids instead of our usual know-it-all selves.
Her groan mirrored a little kid's frustration. "Ugh, seriously! I'm glad you're my friend, but there are moments when I feel like the village pumpkin next to you."
"That's what you get when you assume Wizards children are the same as Muggle children. Wizard kids are like a different breed altogether, thanks to that magical boost from day one. Apparently, we evolve at a much faster rate compared to muggles," I explained, propping myself up on the grass. "No wonder you felt confident in your smarts."
Curiosity gleamed in her eyes as she inquired, "Who shared that gem of wisdom with you?"
"Professor Flitwick," I replied, nonchalant.
Reclining beside her, I absentmindedly toyed with Harpe between my fingers, my gaze drifting up to the expanse of blue sky.
"Tell me, Hermione, how good is your memory?" I asked, my tone casual.
"Well... I have a pretty strong memory and I can remember things for quite a while, especially if they're important. But I'm not immune to forgetting details here and there. Why?" she answered, curiosity lacing her voice.
"I actually thought you had an eidetic memory. You seemed to recall every move I made and played accordingly, anticipating my moves ahead," I admitted, my attention still on the sky.
A soft chuckle escaped her lips. "I wish. But after I read that Occlumency book you gave me, my mind definitely feels sharper than before. So, while I might not have eidetic memory, I've definitely leveled up," she said, her tone shifting to one of contentment as she smiled.
Hub I got it right. The whole Hermione having eidetic and photographic memory was a popular fanon belief, but it's not actually confirmed in the original series. In fact, there are instances where she forgets details from books she's read, so it's more nuanced than the fan theories made it out to be.
"Yeah, well, turns out I avoided a lost because I caught onto your cold reading of my moves, so I decided to ditch my original strategy," I revealed with a playful grin.
"What? But how did you manage to win without a plan?" Her surprise was evident.
I chuckled, thoroughly amused by her reaction. "Simple. If I don't have a plan, you can't strategize to foil my plan. So I just played without any plan at all, letting you overthink it while I was actually just winging it," I explained, my laughter bubbling up again as I saw her make a comically puzzled face.
"Ouch!" My laughter was cut short by a yelp as she playfully thwacked me on the side.
"That's not funny. Hmph," she huffed, turning away. I didn't panic at her apparent annoyance; I knew her temper could flare up quickly but would subside just as fast if the issue wasn't serious.
"Oh, hey!" Hermione's sudden rise caught my attention, and I followed her gaze to the corridor where a familiar scene was unfolding – some heated disagreement between certain individuals.
"Should we jump in?" I asked, my brow arched. "Looks like Harry's ready to throw a punch."
Hermione shook her head. "Nah, not interested. Seems like a boy brawl."
I nodded in agreement and as ahe walked away. It made sense; this didn't seem like a particularly serious situation, and Hermione wasn't one to get caught up in mere squabbles. While I had no doubt she'd have Harry's back if things took a dangerous turn – given their growing friendship – she didn't seem inclined to wade into the fray of a typical brawl.
"Hmm, just a little fancy mark, anything more to you?" Draco Malfoy sneered, his finger pointed at the distinctive V-shaped scar on Fleamont's forehead. His loyal entourage circled around him, forming a protective barrier.
Harry, positioned nearby but separate, observed the scene with a fierce glare, his allegiance remaining shrouded in uncertainty.
"Interesting words from a chap who couldn't even manage to clean his own backside without Daddy's assistance," Fleamont retorted, supported by Ron and Neville, though their expressions betrayed a hint of unease.
Draco's smug expression remained intact, an unexpected display of self-control. Which was surpising , is this the same coward Slytherin?
"Hey, listen up everyone," I called out, the two groups of students edging apart slightly. "Instead of causing a scene in the hallway, how about you settle things like proper wizards?"
"Through a duel, perhaps?" Fleamont suggested, a small smile playing on his lips, causing everyone to tense up.
"I meant through conversation, but sure," I replied with a chuckle.
"Hmph, it would be quite satisfying to see you knocked off your high horse and put in your rightful place," Draco chimed in, his tone laced with smug satisfaction.
"Oh, I've got just the spot in mind," I said, capturing the attention of both parties. "There's an empty classroom on the third floor that'll do perfectly. And don't worry, it's nowhere near the forbidden area."
"Challenge accepted," Fleamont declared, nodding towards Ron, who would act as his second.
Draco began to speak, but his words were cut short as Harry stepped up beside him, fixing his identical counterpart with an intense glare.
"Hey, hold on a moment," Draco protested, only to be silenced by another, more powerful glare from Harry.
In those emerald eyes, I saw anger – a fierce, bottled-up rage that yearned to be unleashed. But it wasn't just any anger; it was directed at his own flesh and blood.
Damn, talk about a mess. I mean, sure, I've had my own abandonment issues, but you don't see me declaring war every time my twin comes up in conversation.
I mean, okay, I did try to curse her a bunch of times and maybe even attempted to off her once, but that's just a minor detail, right?
"Alright, everyone, just keep it low-key and don't get yourselves expelled. I'll catch up with you all tonight on the third floor," I interjected, surprisingly managing to defuse the tense situation.
There was no way I was going to let them duel in the trophy room like in the canon storyline. That'd be a surefire way to attract the attention of Filch or some nosy teacher, considering it's a guarded area.
Though I was throwing out canon, there were still things I could leverage to my advantage. Shaking off my thoughts, I sighed as the group continued their juvenile banter.
With a final round of taunts, they dispersed, leaving me and Harry alone. He shuffled awkwardly and cleared his throat.
"So, uh... about that duel..."
I turned around decisively. "Nope. I'm not diving into your family drama. Don't count on me to help you out with this one."
If he'd only heeded my advice from our first encounter and aimed to be a great wizard rather than settling for mediocrity, he wouldn't need my assistance now. But he brushed aside my words, and if he's been ignoring that sage advice all this time, it's pretty clear I've been wasting my breath on a lost cause.
--666--
In the quiet of the night, I leaped out of my bed, reluctantly closing the intriguing book titled 'Phantasmal and Magical Beasts and Where to Find Them.'
As it turns out, many of these magical creatures are actually descendants of a mix between phantasmal beasts and ordinary animals. It's fascinating – the mightiest of magical beasts, like dragons, are mere ants compared to their true phantasmal counterparts. Thankfully, most of these awe-inspiring phantasmal species have become rare in this part of the world.
I don't have much knowledge about the reverse side of the world, though.
"Hey, where do you think you're sneaking off to?" A sudden voice breaks my reverie as I halt in the common room of our house.
I pivot to find Amy, that perpetually brooding third-year, lounging on the couch near the hearth, soaking in the warmth on this chilly night.
Ah, the wonders of my Ultimate Luck.
"Uh... I'm currently on a top-secret mission with a buddy, but unfortunately, I can't disclose the juicy details," I attempted a poor imitation of a secretive tone, cringing inwardly even as I said it.
"Typical boys," she muttered, rolling her eyes as she nonchalantly turned a page in the book she was engrossed in. "Tell you what, bring me a latte with an extra shot of sugar, and I'll conveniently forget I saw you sneaking past curfew."
I blinked in surprise. "Okay, it's a deal."
Well, that was unexpectedly simple. I was bracing myself for either canceling the whole plan or attempting to erase her memory before slipping out. But apparently, a mere latte was all it took to smooth things over. Who am I to question that?
I let out a sigh as the chilly night breeze tousled my hair and clothes while I ventured onward.
After a brief stroll, I caught sight of the group of first-year students gathered near the path leading into the forest. Their search for me nullified my presence concealment spell.
Curse it, I really should level up my skills.
"Why are you here?" I questioned my twin, Delphini, who trailed behind Draco. Harry stood alongside them, a deep frown etched onto his face.
"I don't trust you to be left alone with my brother," she retorted dryly, her tone indicating her exasperation with the whole affair.
Turning my attention to Draco, I addressed him with a faintly mocking smile. "And you. I'm almost certain you'll conveniently miss this 'duel,' opting instead to stir up mischief with Filch under the guise of troublemaking for the Gryffindors."
"Hmph, when you're as skilled at dueling as I am, you don't need any sneaky tricks," Draco proclaimed confidently, his gaze locking onto Delphini's.
Using my perk, I focused my attention on Delphini and Draco, trying to figure out why Draco seemed so assured and lacked the cowardly demeanor from the canon timeline. Particularly intriguing was the absence of his usual two henchmen.
My eyes darted around rapidly, and then it hit me. Ah, that's the key difference in this timeline – Draco's got someone to motivate him or perhaps even directly teach him how to fight, given Delphini's high skill level. It seemed he was aiming to impress her.
"Ready?" I inquired, taking the lead and guiding them to our chosen destination on the third floor – a spacious, empty classroom situated at the far end of the corridor.
"Yes, let's get on with it," Harry responded, his voice carrying a mix of nervousness and determination. Judging from his brisk pace, his desire to prove himself outweighed his apprehension.
As for his facial expressions, there's a subtle furrow to his brow, suggesting he's keeping a tight rein on his anger, likely to prevent accidental magic from flaring up. While we're friends, he doesn't seem entirely comfortable sharing the reason behind this emotional restraint.
Well, isn't this quite the case of speed-reading in action? My brain was absorbing, processing, and deducing information at an almost superhuman pace. But I realized it came at a cost – the onset of a pounding migraine. It seems I'll need to enhance my brain's capabilities biologically before I fully unleash the potential of this perk.
If it's granting me Sherlock Holmes-like deduction skills already, who knows what it could do as I grow older and my brain matures?
"Crap," Delphini cursed under her breath, grabbing both Harry and Draco by the arms and forcefully guiding them toward a dimly lit corner of the hallway – presumably the entrance to a secret passage.
"What on earth are you doing, you imbecile?" She hissed at me from our hiding spot. "Stay hidden."
I simply rolled my eyes and shrugged in a carefree manner, much to her evident frustration. Did she honestly believe she was the only one with heightened awareness? Thanks to my minimap, I'd been tracking Filch's movements the whole time, and he was just a stone's throw away.
I remained frozen in place as the lantern-bearing caretaker approached. Draco, Harry, and Delphini collectively facepalmed as I waved casually at Filch, as though I were meant to be there in the dead of night.
To their astonishment, Filch strolled right past me, entirely oblivious to my presence. Even if Argus Filch possessed the ability to perceive ghosts within Hogwarts, he was still utterly blind to my existence.
Ah, take that, Peeves.
Skill Presence Concealment Ranked up!
Expert — Master
Finally, about time! I've been diligently practicing this presence concealment skill for the past six months, and let's not forget that I had this ability even before I acquired the Gamer System. It's quite the achievement, really – nobody in Hogwarts can lay eyes on me without actively searching for my presence. Ha-ha, it's a sweet victory indeed–
"Meow."
My evil monologue was abruptly cut off by a cheery sound. I glanced down to find a bright yellow cat, its fluffy head and perky ears nudging affectionately (smugly) against my feet.
My expression morphed into a "What the fuck?" look, mirroring the astonishment of a group of Slytherins lurking in the shadows.
"What's the matter, my sweet? Do you sense something?" the person asked, his voice as grating as a malfunctioning engine. I stood frozen in place, my heart racing, as the lamp he held illuminated the cat's eyes – those dusty-colored pupils seemed to lock onto me.
Damn it, I let my cockiness get the best of me.
In an instant, I crouched down, my hands gently cradling the feline's delicate head. I could feel the surge of adrenaline urging me to kill it or make a run for it, to escape. But no, I wouldn't resort to harming an cat. Not even if it was Mrs. Norris, the dread of all students. I wouldn't stoop that low.
With a subtle gesture, I channeled my mana into my hand, gently guiding the cat's head. To Filch, it would seem like she was simply bowing her head for some inexplicable reason.
Summoning an illusion, I projected the image of a Cerberus – the legendary three-headed dog from Greek mythology – right before Norris' eyes. As I released her, her reaction was so genuine, it would have done Tom and Jerry proud. She hovered in a state of sheer panic, limbs flailing wildly as she shot toward Filch, and she didn't stop until she crashed into him.
Filch watched as his cat dashed away, darting under his legs and out of the corridor. He hastened after her, likely under the impression that Miss Norris had picked up a scent trail leading to some unruly troublemakers elsewhere on the grounds. Oblivious to the fact that his feline companion was fleeing in sheer terror.
"How on earth did you manage that?" Draco marveled, his eyes wide with astonishment. Stepping out from the shadows, Harry and Delphini shared similar expressions of amazement.
"Why not spill the beans about my mother's maiden name while I'm at it?" I retorted with a smirk, offering a sarcastic response that seemed to instantly rile up Draco. "Sorry, it's a secret from the Black family."
"We're all part of the Black family," Draco shot back, his annoyance palpable. "We have a right to know, even Potter here – despite being born from a Mudblood."
Harry let out a low growl at that comment. Draco had a point, though. His mother was a pureblood Née Black, Delphini and I shared the same parent, and Harry's grandmother was another daughter of the Black family.
For the span of three generations, anyone within the family lineage could potentially stake a claim to the Noble House's heirship, under specific circumstances.
I lifted my right hand, showcasing a foreboding black ring adorned with enigmatic, glowing runes. "Recognize this?"
"It's an heir ring, the one that should have been mine," Delphini responded with a touch of annoyance, surprising me with her lack of bitterness. Could it be that she was relieved to be spared from the role of heiress?
"Well, it's mine now. Until I die or become the Lord of House Black, I have the authority to decide who receives what," I declared with a smirk, relishing Draco's fiery glares.
"I'm utterly lost here," Harry admitted, his confusion apparent. He was still immersed in familiarizing himself with the magical world, and the intricate cultural rituals of nobility hadn't made it onto his list of priorities.
"There, there." I patted him reassuringly on the shoulder. "You're always welcome at your grandma's old residence, Harry." I shifted my attention to the two blondes, cheekily sticking out my tongue at them. "But you two, not so much."
"Grandma?" Harry queried, looking perplexed.
A collective groan escaped all of us.
Our movement abruptly halted as a clown-like apparition burst forth from a nearby classroom, and our gazes locked with the mischievous spirit – none other than Peeves. Spotting us, he let out a gleeful squeal, his presence as unwelcome as ever.
"Are you kidding me?" I muttered in exasperation, realization dawning upon me that I had overlooked his presence on my minimap while I was busy taunting the Malfoys.
Peeves erupted into maniacal laughter.
"Wandering about in the dead of night, little first years? Tut, tut, tut. Quite naughty, you know, and you're bound to get caughty."
"Not if you leave us alone," Harry retorted, his wand at the ready. Unfortunately, Peeves didn't seem even remotely intimidated by the threat.
"I should inform Filch, I should," Peeves responded with an almost saintly tone, though his eyes gleamed with malevolence. "It's all for your own good, you see."
"I've got a counteroffer," I declared, pulling a somewhat irritated Harry back a step.
"Sweetheart, could you lend a hand, please?" I raised my voice slightly, careful not to shout and potentially alert Filch.
Harry, Draco, Delphini, and Peeves glanced around, waiting for some sort of response.
But initially, nothing seemed to transpire as they gazed at me in perplexity.
"Just give it a moment, sometimes there's a delay," I reassured them, urging patience as we all remained on edge, anticipating some kind of reaction.
Peeves appeared utterly bored, a smirk playing on his lips as he readied himself to unleash a shout that could wake half the school. Just then, a streak of movement blurred through the room, phasing through the ceiling as Myrtle materialized before us. Swiftly, she drove her ghostly knee into Peeves' spectral groin, stunning him into momentary silence.
Yes, I did apply my knowledge of Pokémon here. Ghosts can interact with one another since they exist within an astral plane. While Peeves might not have a tangible body to feel pain, you could say he was experiencing a phantom discomfort.
Very painful phantom discomfort.
Myrtle winked at me mischievously before seizing Peeves by the ankle and dragging him away, sobbing, resembling a ghostly scenes straight out of a horror film.
"What in the world did we just see?" Harry inquired with a befuddled expression, his gaze fixed on me along with the rest of the trio who appeared equally dumbfounded.
"To maintain your mental well-being, let's just agree we saw nothing," I chimed in with an almost cheerful tone, taking the lead as they followed along in a somewhat dazed manner.
And so, our midnight excursion continued without any further interruptions. Draco and Harry seemed to be getting themselves ready, and I was taken aback by how readily Harry was cooperating with Draco – all for the sake of delivering a punch to his own brother.
It didn't necessarily imply Harry was warming up to Draco, but they were managing to maintain a semblance of civility, at least avoiding engaging in heated arguments and overlooking the slurs and insults being flung their way as we proceeded.
"We've finally arrived, fashionably late," I announced with a playful grin as I pushed open the imposing door, revealing an enchanting interior that seemed much larger than its outward appearance.
"Jeanne!" I called out, my attention solely focused on the red-haired girl. Ron and Fleamont might as well have been invisible for all the notice I gave them. "You're positively radiant, even in the moonlight."
Surprisingly, she didn't stumble or appear uncomfortable, likely due to her accustomedness to fame and compliments.
"Thank you, and good evening to you too, my poor and defenseless puff friend," she replied, a mischievous grin playing on her lips as her emerald eyes sparkled. After our previous conversation during the weekend, we had been forming a comfortable rapport. According to her, I didn't give off the same unsettling vibe as most of the other boys did.
I was but a puppy in lioness's eyes.
Perhaps that was why Fleamont was merely tolerating my presence, his glares serving more as a warning than anything truly menacing.
"Oh, you two are here too?" I replied with feigned innocence, casting a playful glance at Ron and Fleamont who seemed slightly annoyed by the attention diverted elsewhere.
"Well, since we're all assembled, how about you join me as the second referee, Jeanne?" I proposed cheerfully, turning my attention back to the red-haired girl. "I'd hate to see you getting hurt, after all." She agreed after a brief moment of contemplation.
The Gryffindor boys seemed to nod in agreement, likely concerned for their firecracker's well-being.
"Sounds good, I was just here to ensure nobody ends up with broken bones. I happen to be quite adept at Healing spells," she added with a reassuring smile.
I couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. I genuinely liked this girl – not in any peculiar manner, but more akin to how one might cherish a loyal puppy. I'd willingly go to lengths to ensure she remained unharmed, as long as it didn't clash with my own goals.
Attachments weren't my strong suit, after all.
"Well, isn't this a delightful surprise," Ron interjected, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "You've brought your sister and the traitor-Potter. Daddy couldn't make it on time?"
The red-haired Gryffindor thrust his wand forward, attempting to exude an air of intimidation.
The red-haired Gryffindor thrust his wand forward, attempting to exude an air of intimidation.
"Fascinating," Draco countered, his voice remarkably composed as he smoothly withdrew his wand from its holster. "A blood traitor like you labeling the only reasonable Potter as a traitor. It's hardly astonishing that the dim-witted lot like you has been sorted into Gryffindor for generations."
Ron clenched his teeth in fury, while Fleamont turned his gaze toward Harry. Harry, in return, met the look cautiously. The boy's hazel eyes revealed no trace of hatred that I initially observed on the train. There was no anger or resentment; only a sense of sadness and resigned acceptance.
This wasn't the stereotypical "wrong boy who lived" portrayal found in fanfiction from my previous world. In reality, Fleamont wasn't an entitled brat nor an arrogant fool who underestimated his opponents. He was far more complex than that.
"I apologize, brother, but I won't be holding any back, even if your behavior is strikingly immature and petty," Fleamont retorted, taking a confident step forward.
Harry followed suit, his anger barely contained beneath the surface.
"You know what else fits the bill of childish and petty? Boasting about the wonders of the magical world when we first met," Harry retorted, his voice laced with absolute rage.
"Boasting about how everyone bows before the great Fleamont Potter, while your very own brother was left to suffer with dreadful magic hating Muggles, kept in the dark about his true identity," he hissed, his eyes turning frigid with fury rather than erupting into a fiery rage.
"We all believed you were a Squib, that there was no trace of magic in you. What use was it to have you around when we were constantly on the run, hiding from place to place? Do you think this fame came without a cost? Not just for me, but for all of us," Fleamont retorted, his tone tinged with frustration.
"So, in this magical world, does a family mean nothing if there's no magical blood running through one's veins?" Harry chuckled bitterly and angrily. He was so focused on his pain he didn't even try to see through his brothers eyes.
Even Harry Potter was not perfect.
"You were sent away because Mom couldn't protect all three of her children. If you were in her shoes, what would you have done? Die together as a family or make the painful choice of sending one of your children to live with your Muggle sister, where that squib child could at least grow up safe in the Muggle world, away from the dangers of the magical one?" Jeanne shouted in anger, and I struggled to hold her back from lunging at Harry.
"Safe?" Harry laughed, it was not of joy but pain.
"I'm not trying to interfere in your family matters, but," Delphini chimed in, turning her gaze to Harry. "You Potters jumped to conclusions too quickly. Harry's magical capacity is larger than all of ours here. I have a natural sense for magic, and his is immense," she added, crossing her arms.
"True, there was a mistake made by our mother, and she did what she believed was right at the time. But that doesn't excuse you from hurting her feelings," Fleamont added, glaring at his brother.
"Oh, I think it gives me plenty of reason, especially after enduring what I did among those magic-hating monsters your mother calls family," Harry retorted, his wand pointed menacingly at his brother.
"Enough talking, let's begin this duel," he declared, his tone determined.
It was not duel, only personal brawl with Wand and we all knew it.
"Isn't this supposed to be my duel?" Draco shouted, his frustration boiling over as he felt ignored by everyone.
"Quiet down," I snapped, using a chantless knockout charm, skillfully executed without my wand. Draco managed to sidestep the spell at the last moment, giving me a warning glare.
"Don't forget your role, Referee, or I'll bring the whole Slytherin house next time," he hissed, anger evident in his voice.
"Hmph," I huffed dismissively and turned away. Jeanne and I stood between the two Potter brothers, creating a tense standoff.
"This will be a Two vs Two duel due to recent developments, so try not to kill each other," I announced, sensing the tension in the air. No objections were raised; it was clear that once the duel began, even the seconds would be drawn into the conflict.
"Come closer, all four of you. Jeanne will be the referee for Gryffindor, and Delphini will oversee the match from the Slytherin side, in case my judgment falters," I explained, positioning ourselves for the impending duel. The four boys faced off, the atmosphere charged with anticipation.
"Bow," I ordered, which nobody followed. So much for the rules of honorable duels.
"Ten steps backward." They followed this instruction thankfully.
"And Begin," I said while seemingly staring at empty space outside of the window. At first glance there was nobody, but my minimap was saying otherwise.
No nobody noticed as I mouthed "Your move."
"Oh, your baby boy is quite a Wizard. Are you sure he's supposed to be the weaker one?" Rowena Macleod, a renowned witch from the American magical community, commented with a hint of amusement. She perched herself on a tree just outside the classroom, observing the unfolding brawl among these young wizards who dubbed it a duel of honor.
She believed the founders of Hogwarts would be rolling in their graves if they could witness this scene.
Rowena's attention, however, was fixated on the referee of the match, a blue-eyed boy who seemed to glance in her direction every now and then. She was confident that he couldn't see her, yet an odd feeling seemed to convey to him that someone else was watching.
"No, I will not approach your son, you weirdo," Rowena muttered in response to voices that seemed to echo within her head.
"I let you inside me, Emily, and it was a two-way deal. Don't make threats you can't deliver," Rowena continued in a resigned tone as the voices within her grew louder before she let out a sigh.
She was an immortal witch who had lived for nearly four centuries, yet her power was not as overwhelming as other mages and wizard prodigies across the world. She had knowledge, techniques, skills but not overwhelming firepower.
However, her life took a turn when she stumbled upon the soul of the most infamous witch of modern times, Voldemort. She attempted to consume her soul for power, only to discover that Voldemort's strength was too immense. If not for the fact that only fragments of her soul remained, Voldemort's consciousness would have completely overtaken her.
After exchanging their life stories, a peculiar understanding formed between the two witches. The Dark Lady agreed to bestow upon Rowena power that matched her age and wisdom. In return, Rowena would infiltrate Hogwarts, steal the Philosopher's Stone, and create a body of Homunculi for Voldemort to inhabit.
The deal was enticing, and to solidify their pact, they magically bound themselves to their word. A curse was placed upon them: if either of them betrayed the agreement, their mortal souls would be mercilessly dragged from the realm of the living.
"Yes, I know. Those two children of yours would definitely fight," Rowena agreed with the Dark Lady as her Magic Sight allowed her to see the twisted, dark bond pulsing in the Mana core of the two children of Voldemort. "That's one botched twin bond, alright," she thought to herself.
"But let's get rid of this pesky duel so those two can fight it out," she muttered, reaching for her trusty grimoire, her magical focus for casting spells. She briefly considered using her hex bag, but she doubted it would work within the protective wards of Hogwarts. Dumbledore would likely sense its dark magic. Instead, she decided to utilize a local wizarding spell, one that was rather dark but effective within the Hogwarts grounds.
"Invoco Potentia Amentia." She chanted as her grimoire flipped open, its pages turning rapidly as it stopped in the middle of one page.
She nodded in satisfaction, yes, this was the spell she was looking for.
"Now let's see, whose mind is suitable for the spell." She said, turning her glowing eyes back at the room.
She continued to observe the scene, her attention shifting to the ongoing duel between the two pairs of young wizards. Fleamont and Harry's spells clashed with bursts of colorful lights, showcasing their magical prowess. Draco and Ron were engaged in a fierce exchange, their wands sending sparks flying as they tried to outmaneuver each other.
As the duel intensified, she noticed Delphini's keen eyes watching the proceedings closely, ready to step in if things took a dangerous turn. Jeanne stood by as well, her focus on ensuring the safety of the participants. Their presence added an extra layer of complexity to the already intricate situation.
Rowena's attention then shifted to Heliel, the enigmatic and calculated boy who seemed to exude an aura of controlled power. She couldn't help but wonder about the mysteries that lay within his mind, the depth of his thoughts hidden behind those calculating eyes. His movements were precise, every action seemed deliberate, and she couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to him than met the eye.
She wondered about the origins of his calculated and controlled demeanor, the depths of his abilities, and the role he played in this intricate web of events. Her magical sight allowed her glimpses into the complexities of their souls, revealing a tapestry of emotions, motivations, and hidden desires.
Yet see saw nothing but Light. Blindingly bright light.
"Look away Rowena, there lies the path of madness." She berated herself. "You don't know what you gave birth to Emily."
The only thing she got in reply was a twisted feeling of love from Dark Lady. Now let's focus on the task at hand. She thought before looking back inside.
To another candidate for the Spell, Gryffindor boys were ruled out; their hearts lacked the required measure of hate and malice that this dark enchantment demanded. The selection process continued, guided by unseen forces, until her attention settled on Harry Potter, the true Boy Who Lived, and the unwitting last Horcrux of Lady Voldemort.
A twisted grin danced upon Rowena's lips as she studied Harry's soul, her eyes glinting with anticipation. The perfect canvas for her malevolent spell stood before her, a vessel teeming with a complex mixture of emotions: not just hate, but a reservoir of seething anger, piercing pain, and festering trauma. Abandonment issues that had taken root deep within him provided fertile ground for the dark magic's machinations.
With a knowing nod, she lifted her hands, her fingers closing around the pages of an ancient, weathered grimoire. Her voice, a low, melodic cadence, wove the incantation with a sinister elegance, its words barely audible above the hushed rustling of wind.
"Potentia ex astris, amentia ex mente, Invoco vires, sed mentis detrimentum."
As her incantation continued, a subtle luminance began to radiate from her palms, casting a delicate glow that illuminated the ancient pages of the grimoire. The incantation seemed to breathe life into the parchments, causing them to flutter and pulse in response to the magic being conjured.
With the grace of a practiced sorceress, Rowena's fingers danced through the air, tracing intricate patterns that shimmered and weaved into existence. Unseen currents of mystical energy flowed around her, intertwining and connecting with her intended target: Harry. Oblivious to the malevolent forces gathering around him, he remained focused on the impending duel.
Beads of sweat formed on Rowena's brow as her concentration deepened. The intricate spell demanded precise control, requiring every ounce of her magical prowess. Yet, her resolve held strong, unwavering in the face of the potent enchantment she was invoking.
Her gaze remained fixed on Harry, his emerald eyes unwittingly serving as the focal point of her dark intentions. In that moment of heightened emotion, his anger and turmoil became the catalyst for the spell's crescendo. The enchantment fed on his potent emotions, its power intensifying as it harnessed the turbulent energy that radiated from him.
As the final words left Rowena's lips, the spell surged forth, a palpable wave of energy that surged toward Harry, drawn by the intensity of his emotions. Unbeknownst to him, he was on the precipice of becoming entangled in a web of dark magic, a puppet to the whims of Rowena's sinister design.
The spell's influence envelops Harry like a tidal wave, his body responding with an almost primal surge of power. Muscles that were once unassuming now ripple with newfound strength, and his movements become a ballet of precision and grace, fueled by his enhanced reflexes. Magical energy courses through him, a torrential force that threatens to overflow its confines.
Yet, beneath this exhilarating transformation, a storm brews within Harry's mind. His thoughts become a tumultuous whirlwind of conflicting emotions and ideas, like a tempest raging within his consciousness. Confusion tugs at the edges of his perception, and a nagging sense of unease takes root.
Unfamiliar thoughts weave through his mind, like threads of a tapestry spun from a darker realm. The cost of his empowerment begins to manifest, exacting its toll on his mental stability. Paranoia creeps into his thoughts like a shadowy specter, whispering doubts and suspicions that were once foreign to him.
As his eyes dart around the room, Harry's gaze is equal parts focused and distant, his internal struggle evident to those who dare to peer into the depths of his eyes. The very essence of his being becomes a battleground between newfound power and the fragility of his psyche.
"Now let the chaos unfold. Show me what you can do, children of Voldemort."
(Heliel's Pov)
The duel unfolded pretty much as expected. Drama was in the spotlight, emotions were doing a merry dance, but action? Well, let's just say it was taking a coffee break.
I mean, come on, these were just a bunch of first-year students waving sticks around. Not exactly the epic magical showdown I had in mind. It was like watching a slow-motion snail race, except with wands instead of slimy trails.
I guess I'll have to lower my expectations when it comes to magical battles among prepubescent wizards. At least the entertainment value was in the eye rolls and dramatic sighs.
"Flipindo!" Harry cast with surprising finesse, but Fleamont casually sidestepped the spell, deciding to take matters into his own hands – or fists, to be exact.
"Tarantallegra!" Draco chimed in, aiming his spell at Fleamont rather than Ron, who was busy trying to set the room on fire with a rather poorly executed Incendio.
To everyone's amusement, Fleamont's feet caught the dancing bug, and he found himself doing a lively jig he probably didn't sign up for. But instead of stumbling around like a clumsy puppet, he turned his dancing feet into an intricate dance routine that could rival any professional choreographer.
I couldn't help but raise an eyebrow. This wasn't mere talent; it was some serious footwork skills that looked more like the result of disciplined practice than a sudden burst of inspiration. Did the Boy Who Lived have a secret apprenticeship with a dance instructor I didn't know about? Or had he just binge-watched too many dance shows? Or he probably was trained by some bigshot Wizard.
True, it did make sense for the British Magical government to provide the Boy Who Lived with some survival tactics, especially given the dangerous times they lived in. It was a stark contrast to the somewhat naive and immature behavior of the adults in the original Harry Potter canon.
Harry's approach to the duel was indeed different from the others. His emotions seemed to be the driving force behind his spellcasting, amplifying his magical abilities to an astonishing degree. It was as if his frustration, anger, and determination were fueling his every incantation. In a way, it was both impressive and concerning.
His spells, like Stupefy, which were typically meant to temporarily stun opponents, seemed to hit with an unusually intense force. It was as if his emotional state was pushing his magic to its limits, bordering on a more aggressive and potentially dangerous use of spells. It was a fine line between harnessing this newfound power and risking it spiraling out of control into curses or more harmful magic.
"What the!" I step back as Jeanne and Delphini looked at me in worry. I was dumbfounded as Harry's icon in my minimap turned red instead of blue. Somehow my system was telling Harry was an enemy instead of an ally.
"What's going on?" Jeanne's voice quivered with concern as the atmosphere around Harry seemed to shift drastically, his aura taking on a darker and more malevolent hue.
Delphini's eyes narrowed as she focused on Harry, her instincts clearly recognizing the danger. "That aura... it's not normal. He's tapping into something... something dark."
As Harry's aura continued to intensify, the air around him seemed to thicken with an unsettling energy. It was as if his very presence was becoming a vortex of negativity, drawing in the surrounding mana and emotions. Whatever had been triggered within him, it was clear that his emotional turmoil was now manifesting in a tangible and ominous form.
Quest Activated
Mind-Melt-Mayhem
Harry Potter has been enhanced but not without any cost, neutralize him in any way you desire.
Reward: 4000 EXP, Random Skill, One Common Gacha,
The next quest can happen under the right circumstances.
Everything's cool, situation-wise. Harry's kinda stuck in a mental spell, but hey, those rewards are seriously tempting, no lie.
Sorry, Harry, but these rewards are way too awesome to say no to, I told myself , while smoothly stopping the redheaded girl from messing things up.
It was getting dangerous after all.
"Seems like Harry's got a boost of accidental magic," I explained, holding back the girl.
"But this accidental magic doesn't feel all gloomy, and, uh, check out his muscles – they're puffing up... kinda weirdly," She noticed as we both checked out Harry.
Harry gave us a sly grin and then bam! He zoomed into action. He was faster than a snitch, and his wand shot out a red beam. The simple stupefy spell turned into this crazy red magical beam attack, slicing through tables and benches like they were made of butter.
"Hey, careful with your throw those spells," Draco grumbled, snagging Harry's shoulder.
Oops, big mistake. Harry rumbled, his not-so-friendly vibes slipping out while he stared down Draco. The two of them were practically nose-to-nose, and then bam! Harry's fist swung, packing a punch with his magical energy all charged up.
Delphini was like a step ahead, seeing this coming. She dashed over, wand held high, all set to back up her brother.
She stumbled in a grand, almost theatrical way, so I swiftly pulled back my foot from her path. She scrambled to her feet in a hurry, but timing wasn't on her side.
With a nasty crunch, Draco came hurtling our way, teeth taking flight like they had wings. Acting fast, I positioned myself in front of Jeanne, my secret Delphini-tripper status well hidden.
"Aqua Shield," I chanted in English, since this was more Water Magic than your usual charm.
Draco's body folded into a soft bubble-like shield, luckily cushioning his crash landing. Not gonna lie, I might be a bit petty, not malicious.
I think.
Delphini shot me the angriest look, like I'd stirred up a nest of hornets. Jeanne just stood there, looking all puzzled, wondering why the blonde girl was heating up at me.
"Malfoy, maybe you should give your brother a check, that didn't seem like a soft landing," I said, sounding all concerned – a trick that fooled everyone, except her.
"Oh, I've got something more painful in store for you," she spat, springing back up and deftly swerving away from the charging red blast.
Seeing the serious twist in events, she heaved Draco up like he was a sack of spuds. "I'll be back," she declared, rushing for the exit. The door? Well, it swung open, thanks to her willpower alone. Impressive.
Jeanne and I hung back behind the watery shield as all hell broke loose in that poor room. Red beams zipped around, mixing with some spell hiccups. Ron and Fleamont transformed into Dark Souls characters, dashing about like crazy, hunting for a chance to take down Harry – which seemed way trickier than it did just moments before.
Harry had shifted gears, sticking to the knockout jinx like it was his go-to party trick.
"Seriously, how's he this crazy strong?" Ron hollered, ducking behind a pile of rubble.
"No clue, but at least he's got a pattern now. Just avoid his spells!" The brave Gryffindor lad shouted in reply.
"Stay put, dear brother," Harry laughed wickedly. "Time to put my predictability on display!"
"Why hold back with the big spells? Weren't you under Mad-Eye Moody's wing?" Ron yelled, narrowly missing a red beam that gnawed at the wall behind him, coaxing out an anxious yelp from the 'brave' house kid.
"No way am I hexing my own brother!" Fleamont roared, chucking caution aside and unleashing a chain of spells: Knockback, petrification, and leg-lock jinx, all in one go.
Now that's some serious magical firepower.
Oh Merlin, staying on the straight and narrow is no cakewalk, I thought, my gaze drifting over to Fleamont. Despite the rift, the anger, and this full-blown showdown, his love for his brother still shone through.
Dang, it was like Thor and Loki vibes straight out of Marvel."This is it!" Harry bellowed, his wand erupting in a blazing red beam.
"Expelliarmus!" Fleamont hollered, squaring off against his brother's ramped-up spell. He let out a scream as more magical juice surged from his core, barely holding on long enough to keep Harry at bay for a hot minute – all while dodging a one-way ticket to oblivion.
"Incendio!" Ron hollered, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with his pal, sending a wimpy inferno stream. But guess what? That weak blaze started swirling around Expelliarmus's red beam, cranking up its firepower. Literally.
"Their spells are teaming up," Jeanne mumbled, catching on.
"Harry's done for, disqualified on account of being out of his noggin," I declared, watching the ginger girl by my side dash for her bro as my water walls crumbled.
Woops my ascent just came out.
"Thermisectum!" she yelled, joining forces with the Gryffindor tag team, her wand belting out this super hot orange fire beam.
And poof, her spell hopped aboard too. Like, how? Combining spells is a high-stakes deal, not to mention the kaboom risk.
Ugh, classic plot armor, making the Golden Trio the luckiest ducks.
I kept my eyes peeled, totally engrossed as their beams duked it out dead center. Harry's beefy beam was up against a three-wizard tag team, and it was like a full-on showdown.
Legit felt like watching Dragon Ball Z, just without the planet-busting scale – these beams could only wreck the room.
But gotta hand it to the visuals – they were top-notch. And to think, these eleven-year-olds packing this much firepower... kinda scary when you imagine a grown wizard at their peak.
From a regular human's standpoint, even wizard kids are total powerhouses. And grown-ups? Well, they're like straight-up Kaijus, no joke.
I figure I'll outdo 'em someday, just not tomorrow's news. Those quests? Well, they're on a snail's schedule, and the whole Saitama thing? Yeah, my body's waving the white flag.
Suddenly, my brain's like, "Yo, someone's here!" Door swings open, and in storms Delphini, and trust me, her mood's not sunshine and rainbows.
Plus, her marker on my mental map's gone all red.
Oh shit.
She didn't even phase by all the screaming going on as all were screaming while releasing their spells like again Dragon Ball Z.
Thank Merlin for soundproofing this place; otherwise, the entire school would've been roused by the ruckus.
My twin zipped forward, her moves all acrobatic, doing a limbo routine with the beam. She closed in on Harry, matching my pace, nearly too quick for the regular kiddos our age to follow, all a blur to them.
With a single lightning-fast motion, she karate-chopped Harry's neck. Dude choked, then went down like a sack of potatoes, unconscious. Looked like someone snapped his puppet strings.
"And the winner, Fleamont, takes the crown due to a DQ, 'cause Harry got juiced up by some outside help," I declared, but it was like I was a ghost – nobody cared. Both Potters raced to their bro's side like it was a race.
"Props for the save," Jeanne beamed, giving me a grateful grin, while Ron and Fleamont got all floaty with Harry. The chosen one himself gave a nod, chiming in, "Thanks for the backup. Let's hustle to the Medical Wing, even if it chips away our house points. Something's off with him, not your usual knock-out."
He eyed his out-cold brother like he was some mystery he had to solve.
"He's not going anywhere," my twin piped up, a chilly edge to her voice. "We've got some matters to hash out."
Like clockwork, Ron and Jeanne whipped out their wands, ready for action. "Think we'd just let you slither off with our mate?" Ron snapped, all Gryffindor fire, while Jeanne shot daggers with her eyes.
Grinning like a chessmaster from the shadows, I watched it all play out.
"Chill, you two," I interjected, keeping things cool. "It's not a biggie. Trust me, as amusing as it is that you're ready to wage war, it's not needed right now."
I patted Golden Trio on the back, even though their trust had me smirking. "Don't stress, I got this."
Seems like this trust thing could turn into a sweet deal down the road, though I gotta admit, they're probably giving me a tad too much credit just 'cause of my house. Classic case of textbook gullibility. But hey, who am I to fix their misconception when I'm soaking up the advantage?
"Guys, handle Harry, we're just gonna chat it out. What's the worst that could happen, right?"
They gave in, nodding with a mix of doubt and discomfort on their faces. Yet, there they go, showing a hint of faith that I'll be alright on my own.
Jeanne, though, she's a real standout. That girl's grown on me faster than a spell.
Few minutes later, they skedaddled, clearing out the room, leaving us, the Voldemort clan, locked in for a little chat.
Quest completed
Mind-Melt-Mayhem
Harry Potter has been enhanced but not without any cost, neutralize him in any way you desire.
Reward: 4000 EXP, Random Skill, One Common Gacha,
Gacha transferred to Inventory.
New Skill Gained
Light Magic: Novice (Enhanced because of elemental affinity)
This magic allows the user to generate and manipulate light at will.
Quest Activated
Revenge is a salty reminder
After embarrassment defeat at Hogwarts Express, face your twin for dominance and crush her.
Objective; Kill her to sever your twin bond.
Alt Objective: Spare her after Battle to receive???
Reward: 5000 XP, One Random Perk.
Bingo, this is the quest I've been after. It's a leveling-up opportunity, plus it could help offset the train debacle. And hey, Light Magic might just come in handy if I play my cards right. It's just Novice level, but if anime's taught me anything, Light Magic's a beast.
Yep, I got this.
Though, let's be real – no Light beams or fancy Light spears from me anytime soon. My magical lightshow is more like glowing like a legit light bulb. Gotta start somewhere, right?
Oh geez I'm getting sassy and sarcastic, even inside my head, indicating, I'm getting nervous. Not literally since I have Gamer Mind, but feeling was similar.
"You've tested my patience plenty," she began, and like a light switch, the room dimmed, this heavy atmosphere pressing me down like an anvil.
"Because of my memory of you in the past, I endured your antics, your constant need for chaos, your childish need to show everyone you're better than everyone." She said, remembering the whole Luck magic incident.
Pure fury painted her face in bold strokes. "Then you set your sights on Draco. You might not have been a non-stop nuisance to everyone, but when the chance pops up, you'll toss anyone into the danger zone just to stick it to me."
I let out a big ol' yawn, my boredom front and center. "Yeah, yeah. So?"
I gave a casual head tilt just as a yellow-tinged curse zipped past, its sizzle tickling my ears.
My cool, sarcastic front evaporated into thin air, replaced by a bubbling undercurrent of anger.
"You want the scoop?" I pulled out my wand too, my grip firm. "Sure, it might seem like I'm having a blast – discovering magic after thinking I was just a muggle, slowly making buds... then you show up on the darn train." I took a breath, managing to shrug off her magical weight like it was a feather.
"But ever since that moment, there's this freakin' voice in my noggin', telling me to tear your heart out and grab something back," I continued, my voice a low growl. "And this is me, the supposed owner of the almighty unknown powet, the primo mind shield. But it's like... worth squat against that voice."
"Then bring it on, but aim for me, not my brother. You almost had him six feet under," she roared. I mean, my punch basically gave teeth wings, and I slammed the door on her mid-save. So yeah, it's pretty much on me.
"So what? Your weak spots ain't my problem," I retorted, ice running through my veins, thanks to my trusty Gamer Mind that could numb me for this showdown.
"We're Voldemort's spawn, but you play the hero, cling to Malfoys like a kid clutching a teddy. They're just tools dished out since birth, yet you treat 'em like your real flesh and blood."
For some reason, Delphini went as white as a sheet.
"You've gone down her path, just like those blasted Death Eaters," she spat.
"Oh, Delphi, you wound me," I said, a fake pout plastered across my face before my cold front returned. "Honestly shocked you'd toss me in the same basket as that whore and her little wannabe murder-hobos."
I sensed a blip on the mental map, someone hidden reacting to my words. Nudged a sore spot, have I?
"But chitchat's done, time for another Slytherin to die" I declared, my outfit morphing again – out with the yellow-black, in with the green Slytherin vibes. This true me, Hidden Snake of Hogwarts.
"You killed Lucian and his friends." She said in realization.
"Here's let me show how I did it, Sliccer." Water sprung from my wand, crackling towards her like a whip. She dodged, and bam! That table in her wake? Ripped to shreds like warm butter under a knife.
"You're not the only one with Power here!" She hissed, her hand flicking her wand in a precise pattern – looked like a star symbol.
"Ferventi Sanguine!" The Red Curse zipped toward me at warp speed. I tried to dodge, but my body hit the pause button for a split sec, probably due to her pressure and paralyze trick trough our twin bond.
"Wigby," I called out to my favorite cook from Kitchen as House Elf appear before me in POP.
"Master ca-AHHHHHHH!" House elf called Wigby, one that served me juice at night when I asked, one that cleaned my room because I was too lazy, one that made me tea in the morning, cried in pain as rolled around on the ground, as Blood splattered everywhere, his skin melted entirely as his blood cooked him alive.
"You Monster!" Delphini said in a disgusted and sickened tone.
I broke free from her grasp and stomped at writhing Wigby's head, ending his suffering.
"Hey, you're the blood boiler, not me," I quipped, giving a casual shrug before directing my wand her way. "Visus Affligo!"
A volley of Conjunctivitis Curses shot out. If even one landed, her peepers would puff up like crazy, either shutting down or risking some nasty eye trouble. Not kidding – that book I studied spelled it out.
When the ol' eyeballs get too big for their sockets, things get dicey real quick. Delicate organs inflating like balloons? Yeah, that's a one-way ticket to trouble town.
It will pop out like a balloon too. I giggled.
"Terraegis!" She gave her wand another whirl, and whoosh! A massive mud-and-stone spike burst forth, shooting sky-high before landing with a thud, a whole barrier now stretching between us.
I cast my gaze down at the fallen House Elf, my stomach doing acrobatics. Clenching my teeth, I sighed and reached out, pressing my fingers against the elf's cold hand.
Didn't see that lethal twist coming. Or maybe it's way harsher on elves than us humans. Could be she just wanted a little payback before throwing a countercurse.
Enough pondering. Time to steer toward what lies ahead.
With a power boost to my whole body, I soared up to the rooftop, spotting a panting Delphini crouched behind that stony barricade.
"Bingo." I hurled myself back down, all magical energy in reinforcement magic all over my body. My body packed a reinforced punch, and bam! My kick landed, yanking out a startled yelp as she went flying in the opposite direction.
"Gotta hand it to you, you've got the wizardry edge right now," I sidestepped some haphazard curse like it was a breeze, then swung a kick, connecting with her face and sending her rocketing once more as the stone walls crumbled.
Her spell seemed to be in shambles.
"But that's the catch. You're all about the magic, but strip that away and what's left?" I
Delphini clenched her teeth, the flames of anger burning bright, but she pulled herself together, her wand-hand shaky but determined.
"Sectumsempra~" She spat in Parseltongue out of nowhere, her wand zipping at near-light speed, cutting through air as if she was pulling a Getsuga Tensho move.
Wait, Parseltongue boosts spells? That's news to me. But did Snape really teach his pet curse to this little bitch?
I tried to dodge, but the attack had some wicked range, an invisible blade hurtling right my way.Do I summon more house elves to jump in the line of fire?
Nah, let's meet blade with blade. Water responded to my will, shaping into form. I prepped for another slicer round, this time blending in my freshly nabbed Light magic, blending it right into the aquatic mana before me.
It was like clockwork, all of it cranking in a single heartbeat. Gotta adore the gamer's mind for keeping everything sharp and error-free, mathing out the perfect mana cost for each action and spell.
This Slicer, I shot back her way, was like the deluxe version. Still liquid, sure, but it had this solid edge, more oomph, crashing into her counter-spell like a freight train.
BOOM!
A burst of intense light exploded, a flashbang on steroids, and next thing I know, I'm soaring like a ragdoll, the recoil having its merry way with me.
I land with a heavy thud, lying there, groaning like an old car.
Something's cracked, at least it felt that way.
"You've got this knack for freezing me, and I gotta say, it's getting on my nerves," I huffed, a mix of sweat, blood, tears, and snot freely making their escape, totally not on my agenda.
She managed only a cough in response, not exactly the sound of a champion. So, turns out she got caught up in that explosion too. Well, chalk up another lesson learned: Light magic and dark curses like Sectumsempra don't play nice in the sandbox.
Thank Merlin, Water Magic was the odd buddy here, teaming up with Light against that curse. If I'd gone for fire or – heaven forbid – thunder magic, we'd be talking real-deal magical Armageddon.
Imagine fire turning the place into an inferno or thunder morphing into plasma and wiping us out. Yikes. Good thing water just brought the pressure game, utterly bonkers pressure, but not instant obliteration level.
And let's not even tiptoe into gravitational pressure chat, like a black hole or star, 'cause that's a whole 'nother rabbit hole we're steering clear of for now.
Crawling felt like the whole world was doing a mad dance inside my skull, vision all wonky. But it was enough, just barely, to make out her figure – slumped against the wall, in as sorry a state as me.
Smirking, I shot her a grin, taking in her dazed look. Mental smackdown, much?
"Wingardium Leviosa," I muttered, weaving the charm into my clothes. They lifted me up like a dream, magical threads showing their prowess.
With intense focus, it was like some invisible angler yanked me up and hurled me towards my twin. I landed with flair, right next to her, only to have her roll out of my way at the last sec.
But guess what? I'd already snatched her hand.
A smug chuckle bubbled out of me as Delphini froze up. Electric vibes danced between us, my body bouncing back to shape while she shrunk at an alarming rate.
The real kicker? My twin bond from my side packed a punch – touch me, and I can yoink out your life force, just like that.
Problem solved. No twin mess to shackle me.
"That's my cue!" A new showstopper burst in, a mature redhead striding through the window, cloak trailing behind her.
"Now, doll, release your buddy there. You're not really gunning for this, are you?" Rowena chimed, her tone all sass, the friendly veneer slipping away.
"Oh, the master's spawn savior swoops in, huh? Voldemort's little puppet?" I shot right back, mimicking her mocking tone, earning a gasp from my crumbling twin.
Guess what? Things just got a whole lot murkier.