Despite the post-Christmas rush to get everything completed, people were everywhere. Groups stood around conversing about the new year, while others followed a younger witch or wizard completely lost in their work. By the main entrance from the endless row of Floo fireplaces, David stood, his hands in his pockets, simply admiring the awe-inspiring architecture and magical ambiance that never failed to impress him. The tall pillars, intricate carvings, and magical aura of the building always left him in awe, even after all his visits. Inside, the bustling atmosphere and familiar faces made him feel strangely at home in this enchanted world.
The post-Christmas rush of Ministry affairs to handle, including many students from Hogwarts hoping to apply to the summer's internships, added to the hustle and bustle. Walking through the ornate hall of the Atrium, he couldn't shake the unease he felt after his day yesterday, feeling that it had been wasted in his pursuits, but grateful that something had come of it. As a few older wizards passed him curtly with a tiny bow and a muttered 'sorry Master Luke' from each, he couldn't help but smirk inwardly at their assumption that he was his father.
As he strolled inward, a clear and present smirk on his face, David couldn't help but notice the sideways glances and hushed whispers that followed his every step through the halls of the Ministry. The comparison to his father, Octavius Luke, was inevitable he knew from an early age. Known for his ruthless efficiency and unwavering dedication to justice as a court wizard, Octavius had built a legacy that David now carried, a name that carried a certain weight within the Ministry, filled with expectations and a legacy of power and influence. Despite the powerful strides he knew he would be expected to perform as an adult, David felt a sense of pride in carrying on that legacy as he walked with a newfound confidence.
As he passed by familiar faces, many Ministry officials who had known him since he was a young boy, David could sense their surprise and admiration at the transformation he had undergone. The once timid and uncertain child had grown into a young man exuding an aura of confidence and determination. He was certain they would recall the Greek who brought his wife and child for his first Ministry function, introducing Isabelle and David as the prizes they were. His mother always hated the thought but knew it was not her place to question or seek to rise above.
Young David, however, had stood strong against the adults, knowing he was important, knowing that his father was important. The memories of his childhood interactions with these officials flashed through his mind, their words of encouragement and guidance echoing in his ears. David felt a sense of gratitude towards those who had believed in him, who had seen the potential within him long before he could see it in himself.
With each step forward, David felt a newfound sense of purpose and determination. The whispers and comparisons to his father no longer felt like a burden but rather a source of strength, a reminder of the legacy he carried within him. As he navigated through the labyrinthine corridors of the Ministry towards the court office, his steps were filled with a newfound vigor. Anticipation and excitement for the future that lay ahead filled him, as the possibility of a career in the court system seemed brighter now.
However, amidst the excitement and anticipation, David couldn't shake the lingering unease that had been gnawing at him since his last encounter with his father. The weight of expectations and the uncertainty of the future weighed heavily on his shoulders as he ventured deeper into the heart of the Ministry. Would his father be there today, or was he vacationing in Greece again for the eighth time this year? It would be a record if he weren't there. Despite the winter break resulting in fewer court cases to handle, many employees sought time off to spend with their children. David, however, knew that even during the winter holiday, Octavius would never openly spend time with his only son and wife.
As David made his way through the bustling corridors of the Ministry, a young adult witch caught his eye. She was a few years older than him, her striking features and confident demeanor drawing his attention. He vaguely recognized her from previous encounters but couldn't quite place a name to her face.
"David, is that you?" the witch called out, approaching him with a warm smile. "It's been quite some time since I last saw you around here. How have you been?"
David paused, trying to recall where he had met her before.
"I'm sorry, I'm drawing a blank on your name. We must have crossed paths at some point, but it's slipping my mind at the moment."
The witch chuckled, a playful glint in her eyes.
"No worries, I don't expect you to remember every face you've seen in the Ministry. Our parents were on Wizengamot together when we were children."
Recognition flashed in David's eyes as he remembered their brief interactions. "Ah, yes! It's great to see you again. I must admit, my memory can be a bit spotty at times, but I'm glad you stopped to say hello."
The witch smiled warmly, a hint of amusement dancing in her eyes. "Well, I couldn't resist saying hi to the young prodigy who's causing quite a stir around here. You're definitely making a name for yourself, David. In your seventh year yet?"
David felt a rush of pride at her words, grateful for the unexpected encouragement. "Sixth year actually."
"Oh, one more year then," she said happily clapping her hands together a bit.
"Thank you. I hope to follow in the footsteps of those who have paved the way before me."
As David and Leona exchanged pleasantries, he couldn't help but notice the confidence and poise she exuded. Something in his being made him stand a little taller as she looked up to him. Even though they were about two years different in age, he was considerably tall despite being younger.
"David, you've certainly grown into quite the handsome young wizard," she remarked, her voice laced with a subtle flirtatious tone. She even patted his arm. "I must admit, it's hard to resist someone with your charm and talent."
David chuckled politely, a hint of blush creeping up her cheeks.
"Thank you, I appreciate the kind words, but I must admit my focus is elsewhere today. I have a meeting with a court administrator about a potential future position at the Ministry, so I need to stay focused on that for now." But he did linger on the witch's chocolate brown eyes many stares too long, as her smile faltered slightly, but she quickly regained her composure, nodding understandingly.
"Of course, priorities first. I can't blame you for being career driven. Just know that the offer stands if you ever want to take a break from all this seriousness and have some fun."
David smiled gratefully, his respect for her growing. "I appreciate the offer. Perhaps another time…."
With a final smile and nod, David excused himself, feeling a mixture of gratitude and determination. The flirtatious advances had not gone unnoticed as he flashed a charming smile, passing a quick glance back at her before continuing on his way to the elevators. The witch waved goodbye with a playful wink, a hint of interest lingering in her gaze as he disappeared behind the door.
While he appreciated the flirtatious nature, his focus remained steadfast on his goals and ambitions within the Ministry. As soon as the door closed, his smile turned wary as he closed his eyes briefly. The idea of following in his father's footsteps and working in the court system seemed more appealing now than ever before. He couldn't help but feel a sense of pride at the possibility of being treated better for simply being who he was. It felt nice as he remembered the feel of female student's hand on his arm, or every older witch that enjoyed his time outside of Hogwarts over the summer, but Emily's saddened face crossed his mind in an instant making him frown deeply.
What he did to her was horrible, but he had to be sure about everything.
Armed with a sense of purpose, David navigated the Ministry's corridors with determination. The idea of a future in the Court Wizard Department was now more appealing, and he eagerly looked forward to the opportunities it held for him. Approaching the reception desk, David cleared his throat before speaking to the witch behind the desk.
"Excuse me, I have a meeting with High Wizard Robert," he said, trying to sound as confident as possible.
The witch gave him a curious look before nodding and pulling out a stack of parchment from a nearby drawer. Thumbing through them, she asked for his name, making her look up softly.
"Luke? As in David Luke?" she smirked before reaching his file. "Your father is here you know. He was pleasantly surprised by your application."
David felt a pang of apprehension at the mention of his father's presence, but he quickly composed himself, maintaining a polite smile. The witch's knowing smirk only added to his apprehension, as he wondered what his father's reaction would be to his application for a position within the Court Wizard Department. A direct competition; father against son?
"Ah, yes, that's me," David replied, trying to sound nonchalant. "I'm aware of my father's presence here. It's good to hear he was surprised by my application."
The admin witch raised an eyebrow, her gaze studying him intently. "Well, High Wizard Robert is already waiting for you in his office. It seems like your timing couldn't have been better with his schedule today."
David nodded, grateful for the information. He thanked the witch and made his way down the hallway towards High Wizard Robert's office, following closely behind the witch's sharp heels tapping the marble floor. As he walked, he couldn't shake off the nagging feeling that his father's presence would loom over his meeting with High Wizard Robert. Entering the office, David found High Wizard Robert seated at his desk, a look of anticipation on his face.
David took a deep breath, steeling himself for the conversation ahead. Despite the weight of his father's legacy hanging over him, he was determined to prove himself on his own merits and carve out his own path within the Ministry. The meeting with High Wizard Robert would be a crucial step in that journey.
"Ah, young Master Luke, I've been looking forward to meeting with you," High Wizard Robert stood greeting him warmly, with a curt nod toward his desk. "Please take a seat."
High Wizard Robert gestured for David to take a seat opposite him, and David obliged, trying to exude confidence as he settled into the chair. The office was adorned with various magical artifacts and books, creating an air of wisdom and power around High Wizard Robert.
"Your father, Octavius Luke, is a highly respected figure within the Ministry," High Wizard Robert began, his eyes fixed on David. "He has reached great heights in his career as a court wizard. I trust you are aware of the expectations that come with carrying the Luke name."
David nodded, a sense of deja vu washing over him as High Wizard Robert mentioned his father.
"Yes, I am fully aware of my father's accomplishments and the reputation that precedes me," David replied calmly. "I have immense respect for the work my father has done within the Ministry."
High Wizard Robert nodded, seeming satisfied with David's response.
"Your father's legacy is indeed impressive, but it is also important for you to forge your own path and make your own mark within the Ministry," High Wizard Robert added, his tone encouraging.
David nodded in agreement, determined to prove himself beyond his father's shadow.
"I am here today to express my interest in the summer internship within the Courts Department," David stated, steering the conversation back to his own aspirations. "I believe this opportunity will allow me to further develop my skills and contribute meaningfully to the Ministry."
High Wizard Robert nodded approvingly as he read over David's application a bit remaining quiet as he listened.
"I have reviewed your application several times, and I am pleased with what I have seen so far. Your dedication and potential have not gone unnoticed," he said, a hint of pride in his voice.
High Wizard Robert leaned back in his chair, a thoughtful expression on his face as he reviewed David's academic record. "Your performance in your OWL exams is quite impressive, David," he began, his gaze fixed on a parchment in front of him. "Outstandings in Transfiguration, Ancient Runes, and Arithmancy showcase your aptitude for complex magical theory and application."
David nodded, a sense of pride swelling within him at the praise. High Wizard Robert continued.
"Your Exceeds Expectations in Charms, Potions, Defense Against the Dark Arts, and History of Magic demonstrate a solid foundation in a variety of magical disciplines."
High Wizard Robert paused for a moment before looking up at David. "What are your NEWT level courses?
"Currently I am taking NEWT level courses in Charms, Transfiguration, Potions, Defense Against the Dark Arts, and Ancient Runes," he stated pressing his thumb against his other, a hint of approval in High Wizard Robert's tone.
"Why not continue Arithmancy, as you received an O?"
"I had selected to continue Ancient Runes instead. While Arithmancy was challenging to me, I prefer to focus on concrete evidence in making decisions, not based on wholly assumptions that can be lead astray. Rather in Ancient Runes, understanding it allows a person to understand the past and then adapted to the present day. There are several cases where ancient runes were used to dismiss and criminalize certain persons. In one particular case, the person was successful able to regain their land and title as it was duchy claim that was met with concerns of some of Britain's oldest wizarding families."
High Wizard Robert nodded in approval, his smile widening slightly at David's explanation. He leaned forward, placing his hands on the wooden desk.
"An astute decision, David. Ancient Runes can indeed provide valuable insight into history and culture, as well as offering a unique perspective on the present. You followed the Malfoy case closely I see. You are committed to honing your magical skills and knowledge," the older wizard commented finally reviewing the entire twelve-page application before him. "As for the Malfoy case, it was indeed a significant event in the wizarding community. The intricate use of ancient runes to unravel the claims and counterclaims showcased the power and importance of understanding the past to navigate the complexities of the present. I'm sure you recall the outcome."
High Wizard Robert's eyes gleamed with admiration for David's knowledge and insight.
"Given your interest in historical wizarding cases, I believe you will find the court cases at the Ministry fascinating. The application of magical theory and historical context in legal proceedings can offer a new dimension to your studies and experiences." He gestured towards a stack of parchment on the desk.
"I have prepared a list of recommended readings and case studies for you to review before you start your observation at the Ministry. It will provide you with a solid foundation to appreciate the intricacies of magical law and the importance of historical precedent in shaping wizarding society." High Wizard Robert handed the parchment to David, who eagerly took it, his eyes shining with anticipation.
Scanning through the list, a sense of excitement and determination filled him. The prospect of delving into the intricacies of magical law and history, and applying his academic knowledge to real-world cases, fueled his ambition even further. With a grateful nod, David expressed his readiness to embark on this new chapter of his magical education. As the meeting progressed, High Wizard Robert delved into the details of the internship program, outlining the responsibilities and expectations that would be placed on the interns. He listened attentively, asking questions, and seeking clarification where needed. His words reverberated through the room, each syllable carrying a weight of importance. David felt a sense of gravity settle over him as he listened intently to the expectations laid out before him.
"You will be expected to spend the latter part of your summer break here at the Ministry, observing court cases that you may one day be making decisions over," High Wizard Robert reiterated, his gaze steady and unwavering sharpness. "This kind of responsibility is not always for the faint of heart."
David felt a sense of both excitement and trepidation at the prospect of witnessing court cases firsthand. The realization that his opinions and decisions could one day hold such significance weighed heavily on his mind.
"You must present yourself with level-headedness," High Wizard Robert continued, his tone firm. "With a firm conviction on your conscience of how your words may impact those involved."
David nodded in understanding, feeling the weight of responsibility settle upon his shoulders. He knew that the decisions he made and the words he spoke could have far-reaching consequences, not just within the courtroom, but on the lives of those involved in the cases.
As the meeting drew to a close, High Wizard Robert offered a final word of encouragement.
"Your academic record and dedication to your studies are commendable, David," he said, a smile forming on his lips. "I have no doubt that you will excel in the internship program and continue to make strides in your magical education."
Nodding, they both stood and High Wizard Robert let out a casual chuckle.
"Remember, David, with great power comes great responsibility," he said, his eyes locked with David's. "Approach this opportunity with the respect and seriousness it deserves, and you will continue to grow and learn in ways you never thought possible."
With those words echoing in his mind, David left the office, determined to approach his summer at the Ministry with the level-headedness and conviction that High Wizard Robert had emphasized. He understood the importance of the role he was about to undertake and was ready to rise to the challenge, knowing that the experience would shape him in ways he could only begin to imagine.
With a renewed sense of purpose and determination, David thanked High Wizard Robert for the opportunity and left the office, feeling confident about the path that lay ahead. Armed with his academic achievements and a strong sense of ambition, David was ready to embark on the next chapter of his magical journey within the Ministry. He was ready to take on the challenges that lay ahead and prove himself worthy of a place within the Court Wizard Department, on his own terms and merit. The shadow of his father's legacy still loomed large, but David was determined to carve out his own path and make his mark within the Ministry.
*dot*
"David!" someone called from behind him. Turning sharply his eyes scanned the Atrium trying to find the source but finding no one. Hearing his name again from someone a bit closer, a young woman appeared in front of him, her brown hair cascading down her back in one long braid. Taking a glimpse of the familiar face in front of him, he realized it was Cosette, another Slytherin sixth year.
"David is that you?" asked Cosette, meeting him with a friendly smile. "I thought I heard the whispers you were here!"
"Yes, it's me," David replied, forcing a smile of his own. He had never been particularly fond of Cosette's overly cheerful demeanor, and today was no exception. Hopefully, she wouldn't grab for him this time, given the recent months of their affairs.
"Cosette, what a pleasant surprise to see you here! Are you also here for the Healer program?" he asked calmly watching the older wizards pass them briskly. Genuine curiosity and repentance laced his voice as he looked her over, taking note of her braided hair and flush pink cheeks. They were exactly as he remembered them being last time they were together…. As they stood in the bustling Atrium of the Ministry, the air was filled with an obvious sense of anticipation and energy. David couldn't help but notice the way Cosette's bright green eyes sparkled with excitement as she spoke about her preparations for the Healer program. It took everything in his to not roll his eyes but he controlled himself well enough.
"I can't believe we're finally here," Cosette exclaimed, her voice filled with enthusiasm. "I've been counting down the days until the program starts. It's such a great opportunity. I assume you were here for the courts internship."
David nodded, offering a smile of understanding. "It's definitely a big step for both of us. I've been doing my best to prepare as well. Have you decided which department within the Healer program you want to specialize in?"
Cosette shook her head, her braided hair swaying with the motion. "Not yet, but I'm leaning towards general Potions. I've always found the healing properties of ingredients fascinating. How about you?"
"I'm still undecided," David admitted, his tone thoughtful. "I've been considering Ancient Runes or Transfiguration. I think there's a lot of potential for innovation in those areas, especially given the laws that influence them."
As they walked through the crowded Atrium, the curious glances of passersby followed them, drawn to the sight of two students among the sea of Ministry employees. David couldn't help but feel a pang of pride at being seen with Cosette, a fellow Slytherin with whom he shared a complicated history. He could definitely understand why them being together was a favorable outcome given their history and others knew of their parents. There was a sort of aristocratic impression they both carried, which would lead to better future if they could actually decide to stop playing games, and if David stopped playing with her over Emily.
"Looks like we're turning heads," Cosette remarked with a chuckle, her eyes scanning the onlookers with a hint of amusement. Her left hand closed over his, making David pocket his hands in annoyance. "It's not every day you see Hogwarts students wandering around the Ministry."
David shrugged nonchalantly trying to not meet her eyes. "I'm used to the attention. Being a Slytherin tends to draw eyes, for better or worse."
Their conversation flowed effortlessly as they navigated the bustling corridors, exchanging stories and sharing their excitement for the upcoming programs. Despite the competitive nature of the programs, there was a sense of camaraderie between them that transcended their house rivalry.
"Father says my OWL in Potion was not enough," she commented brushing the last of the ash from her shoulder.
"You got an E. That's fine for Slughorn, besides he's our Head of House. I doubt he would want us to fail. I mean we aren't bloody Gryffindors for Merlin's sake—" started David turning around toward the Floo fireplaces.
"Yes, well you and Evans got Outstandings. Father feels it was horrible and wouldn't help my efforts in gaining admittance to the Healer program."
"You'll get in. We have power in places, well our father's do," he muttered side stepping around an older wizard who wasn't paying attention. Smiling at her, he found her smiling back, her eyes lighting up. As they reached the Floo fireplaces, David couldn't help but feel a surge of relief at the prospect of returning to Luke Manor.
"Well, shall we head back to the manor?" David suggested, gesturing towards the green flames crackling in the fireplace. "It's been a long day, and I could use a change of scenery."
Cosette smiled gratefully, nodding in agreement. "That sounds perfect. Thank you for inviting me."
With a shared shout of their destination, they threw down the Floo powder and vanished in a swirl of green flames, their laughter echoing through the Atrium as they disappeared from sight. Cosette was taking fast about her Healer program, the mild details passing David over, despite his lack of interest. She was rocking back and forth on her heels as she kept touching her hair and watching him carefully as they stepped out of the fireplace.
Before he could answer fully though, a small pop echoes through the room as a small house elf came out from behind the chair.
"Master David is back. How can Pippy assist you?"
"Get my guest some tea, and her favorite chocolates," he instructed Pippy pointing at Cosette.
"But Master David, we do not have any dark chocolate currently for Miss Cosette. I would need to leave the Manor to acquire it for Miss Cosette—"
"Then I'd advise you to do so. Sent a note for the kitchen as well. We are both hungry from our ministry visits."
Bowing, Pippy popped out without another word as David threw himself down on a leather sofa. Resting his head on the back, he sighed heavily as a loud bang came from another room.
"What was that?" questioned Cosette finally removing her coat and hat, laying them over the arm of a chair.
"Oh, bloody hell, I forgot about Arlo…."
David jumped up suddenly running from the drawing room. He slammed open a door to his bedroom and found Arlo banging on the door, his wand firmly placed.
"Arlo? Arlo's here?" questioned Cosette following him out. "Why's he here?"
Arlo's rage seemed to simmer as David opened the door widely revealing the usually very timid Ravenclaw, but he was still visibly upset.
"You just forgot about me, huh? Left me here to rot while you were off gallivanting with Cosette!?" he spat, his eyes flashing with a mix of hurt and anger. He pointed an accusatory finger at the pair, before throwing his hands down in a fit. David held up his hands in a placating gesture.
"I swear it was an honest mistake, Arlo. I got caught up in my meeting and lost track of time. I never meant to leave you locked in here all day, I promise."
"YOU FUCKING BASTARD! YOU LOCKED ME IN HERE!"
Arlo was fuming as he walked right into David's face and gave him an angry shove. As the tension in the room escalated, Cosette watched in shock as their friend rushed forward, Arlo's typically calm demeanor replaced with a sense of urgency and concern. The air crackled with energy as the angry shouts reverberated through the room, contrasting starkly with the elegant tranquility of the manor surroundings. Arlos's usually combed hair was in a mess on top his head as he wore his pajamas still.
David's brow furrowed in exasperation as he assessed the situation before him, the realization dawning upon him that he had inadvertently left Arlo locked in his bedroom for an entire day, unwittingly causing him to wake up alone without him there. Cosette's eyes widened in surprise at the unexpected turn of events, her gaze shifting between each boy as the revelation unfolded before her. Questions swirled in her mind. Curiosity piqued as she sought to understand the dynamics at play between the boys individuals caught in the midst of the unfolding drama.
As David attempted to diffuse the mounting tension, his words resonated with a sense of sincerity and reassurance, a promise of innocence in the midst of turmoil. He sought to explain the misunderstanding, offering Arlo a semblance of understanding and comfort in the face of his frustration and disappointment.
Arlo glared at him for a moment before his shoulders slumped in defeat. "Fine, whatever. Just let me out of this damn room already. Bloody damn prick!"
David quickly unlocked the door and Arlo pushed past him, stalking out into the hallway. Cosette followed behind, unsure of what to do in the tense atmosphere. Arlo paused, turning back with a piercing gaze.
"Don't think this is over, Luke. We need to talk about this."
David nodded solemnly, his expression serious. "I know, Arlo. We will talk, I promise. But let's all calm down first, okay?"
Arlo grunted in response before storming off down the hallway, slamming over a door leading to the kitchens, leaving David and Cosette alone once more. The tension in the air lingered, but Cosette could sense a deeper thread of understanding and care between the two boys. As she looked at David, she saw a vulnerability and concern in his eyes that she hadn't seen before.
"Are you okay?" she asked softly, reaching out to touch his arm gently.
David turned to her, offering a small smile. "I will be. Thank you, Cosette. I'm sorry you had to witness that."
She nodded, squeezing his arm in reassurance. "It's okay. Just know that I'm here for you, whatever you need."
And as they stood there in the hallway, the echoes of Arlo's anger fading into the distance, Cosette felt a sense of camaraderie and connection with David that she hadn't expected. Settling back into the comfortable surroundings of the drawing room, the tension from the earlier confrontation began to dissipate. Cosette took a seat on the plush sofa, her mind still reeling from the unexpected turn of events. David poured them both a cup of tea, the aromatic steam wafting up in lazy tendrils as they waited for Arlo to return. Pippy still hadn't returned with the chocolates.
Silence settled between them, a sense of unease hanging in the air. Cosette glanced at David, noticing the lines of worry etched on his face.
"I hope Arlo will be okay," she murmured, her voice filled with concern. David nodded, his gaze distant.
"He'll be fine. Arlo can be a bit... dramatic at times, but he's a good person deep down. We'll sort things out."
Just then, the door creaked open, and Arlo reentered the room, his expression more subdued than before. He hesitated at the threshold, his eyes darting between David and Cosette, but he taken the chance to better present himself in loose slacks and a button down shirt.
"I... I'm sorry for my outburst earlier," he mumbled, a hint of remorse in his voice, as he reached for a teacup.
David nodded and placed a hand on his knee motioning for Arlo to join them. "It's okay, Arlo. We all have our moments. But we need to talk about what happened. Communication is key, remember?"
Arlo nodded, his shoulders slumping in defeat. "Yeah, you're right. I just felt... abandoned, I guess. It won't happen again."
Cosette watched the exchange, a sense of relief flooding through her as she saw the tension ease between the two boys. She smiled softly, stepping forward to join them.
"I'm glad we can resolve this peacefully. We're all friends here, after all."
Arlo's eyes flickered with gratitude as he turned to her. "Thank you, Cosette. And I'm sorry for my behavior earlier. It was uncalled for."
Cosette shook her head, her smile warm. "No need to apologize. We all have our moments. Let's just move forward from here, together."
And as the three of them sat there, united in their shared experience and newfound understanding, a sense of the tension from earlier replaced with a sense of solidarity.
"I wish I could have visited Daphne though. She's been really out of it with her grandmother ill. I hope she got my gifts. Emily's too."
David's eyes widened a moment as he choked on his tea. Wiping his face he struggled to compose himself, as Arlo and Cosette exchanged puzzled glances, sensing the sudden shift in the atmosphere. Trying to clear his throat, attempting to regain his composure before speaking.
"I-I'm fine, sorry about that. Just went down the wrong way."
Arlo raised an eyebrow, his expression curious but filled with concern. "Are you sure you're okay, mate? You seemed pretty taken aback there."
David forced a smile, trying to deflect the attention away from himself. "Yeah, yeah, I'm fine. Just a bit of a surprise, that's all."
Cosette, ever perceptive, picked up on the tension in the room. "Maybe we should change the subject. How about we play a game or something?"
Arlo nodded, eager to move on from the awkward moment. "Yeah, that sounds good. Anything to lighten the mood."
As they settled in for a game of Wizard's Chess, David couldn't shake the guilty feeling gnawing at him. The knowledge that he had impersonated Arlo to visit Daphne and Emily weighed heavily on his conscience. He stole furtive glances at his friend, who was engrossed in the game with Cosette, unaware of the truth. The game progressed between them as David's mind raced, trying to come up with a plan to keep his deception hidden. He couldn't risk Arlo finding out the truth - it could jeopardize not only their friendship but also his budding relationship with Daphne. The guilt gnawed at him, but he knew he had to keep his secret at all costs. He was after all a Slytherin…. He would find a way to hide this….
Just then, a knock on the door broke the tense silence. Pippy appeared, announcing that dinner was served, and the chocolates were waiting as well for each of them. The trio made their way to the dining room, David's mind was consumed with thoughts of his deception and the consequences it could bring. But for now, he had to play the part of the perfect host, hiding his secret beneath a facade of normalcy.
And as they sat down to dinner, the weight of his secret bore down on him, threatening to unravel the delicate balance he had worked so hard to maintain.
*dot*
The moon cast a dim silver glow through the partially open window, illuminating the darkened room in shadows as David slipped soundlessly through the doorway. His steps were light and deliberate, his movements purposeful as he made his way to Arlo's sleeping form who lay still, his breathing steady in the quiet of the night. With eyes focused and calculated, he silently moved towards his friend's bed.
Oblivious to the world around him, David's lips curled into a sly, cold smile as he reached into his pocket retrieving the memories of his visit to the Potter's home. The faint iridescent glow of the memories shimmered in the pale moonlight, a silent promise of deception and manipulation. With a deft hand, David uncorked the vial and cautiously waved his wand, the liquid slid out like liquid silver, its enchanting knowledge filling the air around him. Without hesitation, David leaned in closer to Arlo, his eyes alight with determination and cunning. He quietly apologized but remained steadfast in his attempt.
Arlo lay motionless, his features serene in slumber, unaware of the impending manipulation that was about to take place. David's fingers trembled slightly with anticipation as he reached out towards Arlo's forehead, a deceivingly gentle touch masking the deceitful intentions lying beneath.
With a gentle stroke, he traced his fingers along Arlo's sleeping face, the fragments leaving a faint tingling sensation in its wake. A soft whisper of incantation escaped David's lips, and with a swift motion, he gently pressed his hand against Arlo's forehead. With a subtle whisper of words lost to the night, David's magic flowed like a dark current, weaving tendril of false memories into the fabric of Arlo's dreams. Images and sounds materialized, twisting, and distorting reality as planted seeds of fabricated recollections deep within his friend's subconscious.
A surge of magical energy rippled through the room as the adjustment took effect, altering Arlo's sleeping mind with false memories and twisted dreams. David's face remained impassive, his thoughts consumed by the schemes and machinations unfolding in the darkness. In a trance-like state, Arlo stirred slightly, a faint furrow appearing on his brow as the fabricated memories were implanted deep within his subconscious. David's expression remained stoic, his eyes cold and calculating as he continued to delude the slumbering mind with illusions and falsehoods.
David's gaze lingered on his friend, a glint of triumph reflected in his eyes as he withdrew his hand and watched the illusion take hold. Stealing one last look at the sleeping figure, his mind was resolute in its belief that this was necessary, that the ends justified the means. There was no guilt in his heart, no second thoughts plaguing his mind.
The room remained cloaked in silence, the only sound the soft rustle of shifting sheets as Arlo slept on, oblivious to the treachery that had taken place. David's steps were silent and purposeful as he exited the room, a cunning smile playing at the corners of his lips, his resolve unyielding in the face of his deceptive machinations. The night remained still for hours, concealing the treacherous act that had transpired under the cloak of darkness. Only the shadows bore witness to David's treachery, his heart unshaken by the betrayal he committed of a friend, his resolve unyielding in the pursuit of his twisted ambitions.
And as the night carried on, the echoes of manipulation and deceit lingered in the air, a chilling reminder of the darkness that resided in the heart of David. A slow grin crossed his face as he knew what he was doing was right….