Latent Darkness

by RayofDawn

Anti-hero story! (Don't read if you're looking for a hero tale.) Rated M for sex, blood, gore, character death. You've been warned. Jakob Quade, heir to the ancient and noble house of Quade, enters Hogwarts, a world where power is everything, loyalty is fleeting, and ambition comes at a cost. How far will he go, and what will he sacrifice in his pursuit of greatness?

34. Chapter 34

Chapter 34. The village of Odeila part one.

As the days passed, Jakob maintained his carefully constructed façade of civility toward Harry Potter. Every subtle nod, every offhand acknowledgement, struck like a carefully aimed blow, testing the Gryffindor's patience. The results were wonderful. Harry's glare grew sharper with each encounter, his jaw tightening as though holding back a torrent of words. Behind those vivid green eyes, a storm brewed, teetering on the edge of eruption.

Jakob relished it. There was a private satisfaction in seeing Potter wrestle with his composure. This small but meaningful triumph eased the lingering weight of that confrontation outside the Great Hall with the Gryffindor girl.

When the holidays arrived, Hogwarts' tension was left behind as Jakob settled into the train compartment with his friends. The air buzzed with excitement and talk of holiday plans, filling the space with the comforting hum of familiarity. At the centre of it, Draco's commanding voice rang out. But today, his sharp tone wasn't directed at the usual targets—it was aimed squarely at Jakob.

"Are you having a piss?" Draco snapped, his eyes narrowing as he leaned forward. "How can you not come to the Malfoy winter party this year? You've always been there!"

Jakob let out a heavy sigh, leaning back in his seat. He pinched the bridge of his nose, annoyance creeping into his voice despite his attempt at sympathy. "I already told you. My father has other plans for me this winter," he explained. After a pause, he added, "But I'll write, alright? Try not to fall apart without me for a few weeks."

Draco exaggeratedly huffed, his arms crossing tightly over his chest. "It's not the same without you there. Who's supposed to stop Blaise from flirting with Tracey all night?"

Across the compartment, Tracey giggled softly, her cheeks flushing as she edged closer to Blaise.

"Who indeed," Blaise drawled smoothly as he glanced at the girl clinging to his arm. She leaned into him, a bright grin lighting up her face as though he were the most captivating person in the world.

Draco groaned, throwing his hands up in exasperation. "See what I have to put up with? It's revolting."

Blaise smirked, clearly entertained, while Tracey leaned slightly away from him. Her grin faded as her lips moved soundlessly, shaping words that needed no sound to be understood: Fuck you.

Jakob chuckled at the easy rhythm of his friends' banter, letting it pull him from his own thoughts. His gaze flicked to Pansy, seated closer than usual, her shoulder brushing against his with each small shift. She'd been unusually quiet for the entire ride, her sharp remarks replaced by a silence that felt out of place.

He didn't need to ask what was on her mind. The way her fingers traced the edge of her sleeve, the subtle stiffness in her movements, and the fleeting glances she cast his way when she thought he wouldn't notice said enough. She was struggling with the thought of saying goodbye, and Jakob felt it as well, like a knot tightening in his stomach.

Even Saliza, his loyal snake, had chosen to stay at Hogwarts. She had hissed about a new enemy encroaching on her hunting grounds—a foe she had yet to catch. Her excitement had been almost frantic, and Jakob hadn't had the heart to force her to leave.

Instead, he'd entrusted her care to Amy, who had accepted the responsibility without hesitation. Her quick agreement had been surprising, though Amy had kept her reasons for staying at Hogwarts over the break cryptic. Jakob hadn't pressed, guessing that she had enough on her plate with her role as queen.

As the train slowed to a stop and the station came into view, their group began to gather their things, the distant hum of families reunited growing louder with each passing moment. The platform outside buzzed with laughter, shouts, and the clatter of luggage being dragged across the stone.

Pansy stayed behind, digging through her bags with restless hands, letting out an irritated groan. "It's gone," she stated, clipped as she glanced around the compartment, her eyes scanning every corner. "It must be here somewere."

"I'll help," Daphne said, lowering herself to check under the seats. Her fingers swept across the floor, but she paused when Astoria's voice called from the platform. Straightening, she brushed off her robes, offering a small, apologetic smile as her gaze flicked between Jakob and Pansy.

"It's fine. Jakob can help me, right? Go—your family's waiting," Pansy said quickly, her tone carrying a faint edge. Jakob had caught the subtle tone as though she wanted Daphne to leave.

Daphne hesitated, her gaze flickering briefly before she nodded. "Alright. Have a good winter holiday," she said, her voice carrying a warmth that didn't quite match her hurried movements as she turned away. She slipped out of the compartment to join her sister and parents, leaving the two Slytherins behind.

Jakob arched a brow, the corner of his mouth twitching slightly. "Pansy, have you really lost something?"

Her gaze faltered, her hands brushing over her sleeves in a gesture he knew all too well. Without meeting his eyes, she turned away, muttering something under her breath that he couldn't catch.

He sighed quietly and stepped past her, the compartment door sliding shut behind him with a soft click. The curtains followed, drawn together in one smooth motion, shutting out the noise and chaos of the platform.

When he turned back, Pansy was already there, her quick, uneven steps closing the distance between them. Before he could say a word, her arms wrapped tightly around him, the force of it catching him off guard.

Jakob didn't falter. His hands settled lightly on her back, steady as she clung to him. Her cheek pressed against his shoulder, and he could feel her fingers gripping the fabric of his robes, holding on as if letting go was simply not an option.

"I hate this," she murmured with a low voice and leaned her cheek against his shoulder. "I hate that you're leaving. Can't I come with you?"

Jakob shook his head, giving the girl in his arms a faint, apologetic smile.

"Father didn't say I could bring anyone," he explained softly as he drew her closer. "You know how he is."

Pansy leaned back just enough for her eyes to meet his, the faint light catching the unshed tears that clung to her lashes. "I hate being away from you," she murmured, her voice trembling, each word pushing against the fragile wall, holding her emotions in check.

Jakob exhaled slowly, his hand moving in a gentle circle against her back—a motion he'd learned long ago could soothe her when nothing else would. He held her gaze, his own feelings flickering briefly in his expression before he forced them down, tucking them away where they couldn't be seen. "I know," he said quietly, leaning his forehead against hers for a fleeting moment, a gesture that carried more than he could speak aloud. "But it's not forever. I'll write. Every day, if that's what it takes. The holiday will be over before you know it. I promise."

Pansy gave a small nod, though it did little to mask the tear that slid down her cheek. Jakob lifted a hand, his thumb brushing it away, the touch lingering for just a moment longer than necessary. He drew her back into his arms, the steadiness of his hold carrying a quiet strength as though the embrace itself could shield her from the ache they both had but left unspoken.

As they stepped off the train, Pansy drew a deep breath, her shoulders straightening as the fragile openness from moments before slipped away. In its place came the polished confidence she wore like armour. Her hands moved automatically, smoothing her robes as her chin lifted, presenting the world with the composed image of a pure-blooded witch.

"Thank you for helping me find my necklace," she said with a steady, practised voice, her gaze fixed on the bustling platform.

She gave him a faint, distant, brief smile before raising a hand in a small wave. Without another word, she turned and walked toward her family further down the platform. Her stride carried the confidence she always displayed. Still, Jakob's gaze followed her long enough to catch the faint stiffness in her steps. This detail would escape anyone who wasn't paying attention. He remained rooted where he stood, watching as she wove into the bustling crowd until her dark hair disappeared among the swirl of students and families.

When she was finally gone, Jakob let out a quiet breath, his shoulders sinking with the release. His eyes drifted across the platform, searching for his own ride home.

Further down the station, his gaze landed on the Potter twins with their parents. Harry leaned toward his father, speaking with quick, animated gestures. At the same time, Ivory stood beside him, arms crossed, her irritation showing in the stiff line of her posture. Off to the side, Hermione's hands fidgeted on the handle of her trunk, her restless movements hinting at an inner conflict as though deciding whether to stay or walk away.

Their eyes met for the briefest moment, and Jakob froze. Hermione quickly looked away, trying her best but failing to look interested in Harry's conversation instead.

Shit… I need to talk to her soon, he thought. With a sharp exhale and forcing himself to move on, his focus shifted until he spotted Susie standing a little apart from the crowd. She was crouched slightly, her arms wrapped around Ella, who clung tightly to her mum, her face buried in her mother's blonde hair.

When Susie spotted Jakob approaching, her eyebrows rose slightly, and a flicker of surprise quickly replaced her usual composed demeanour. "You've grown, Mr. Quade," she said, her tone formal but carrying the warmth of someone who had known him far longer than most. Her hand twitched at her side momentarily as though she wanted to reach for him but thought better of it.

Jakob's polite smile didn't quite touch his eyes. "It's been fine, Susie," he said, his voice even though his gaze darted briefly to Ella, who was still clutching her mother's robes like a lifeline. "But I'd like to return now."

Susie studied him, her sharp eyes missing nothing. She saw the practised ease of his words, the mask he wore so well that even his father would be fooled. But Susie wasn't Thomas. She'd bandaged his scraped knees and soothed his childhood nightmares—she could read him in ways no one else could.

"Of course," she said, her tone softening in a way only he would notice. She took Ella's hand, her thumb brushing lightly against the younger girl's knuckles, and Jakob stepped closer, placing his hand on Susie's arm without a word.

The world spun sharply, the bustle of the platform ripping away as the familiar weightlessness of Apparition took hold.

When they arrived at the Quade mansion, Jakob did something unexpected.

He pulled Susie into a hug—not the quick, polite kind she was used to like he was holding on to more than just her. Susie blinked, startled by its suddenness, her arms hovering in hesitation for only a second before she slowly wrapped them around him. She couldn't name what he needed at that moment, but she didn't need to. Instead, she simply held him long enough for him to feel the steadiness she'd always provided.

When Jakob finally stepped back, his usual smile had returned. Susie didn't ask any questions. Instead, she gave him a warm smile of her own.

---

Dinner was served in the dining room, the table adorned with polished silverware and glowing candles. As they ate, the conversation naturally turned to Hogwarts.

Jakob answered their questions with carefully crafted replies, each word revealing only what he deemed necessary. As the conversation continued, he steered it toward Ella, leaning back as her bright, trilling voice took over, filling the room with a lively energy. She beamed as she described her first months at Hogwarts, her favourite classes, and her newfound best friend, Luna Lovegood. Jakob watched with quiet amusement as she talked about Luna's peculiar charm and the adventures they'd already shared.

Later, in the living room, the glow of the fireplace bathed the space in warm, flickering light.

Feemey, the now slightly taller house-elf, stood by the fireplace, her small hands raised in concentration. Jakob's earlier guidance had her practising a technique he'd read about in an old text on house-elf development. Shadows danced along the walls, brought to life by Feemey's efforts. A bird flapped its wings, a rabbit twitched its ears, and a clumsy dragon puffed invisible smoke. It was a method meant to help young elves refine their innate magic, like a child learning to balance their steps.

Meanwhile, Jakob sat beside Ella, his attention split between Feemey's progress and the parchment sprawled across their lap. Ella's brows knitted together as she worked through a particularly tricky piece of extra-credit homework Flitwick had assigned over the holiday.

Jakob's tone was calm and clear as he did his best to guide the younger Ravenclaw, having a patience only reserved for her. Ella groaned dramatically when she stumbled over a charm's phrasing with clear frustration. Jakob chuckled softly, his hand lightly tapping the parchment to draw her focus back. "Close," he encouraged. "Try again—just like I showed you."

From the doorway, Susie lingered, unnoticed at first, her shoulder resting lightly against the frame as she watched the scene unfold. Her children—one by blood, one by bond—were home again, and the sight stirred something deep within her. Warmth, gratitude, and perhaps a trace of longing swirled together, and before she could stop it, a single tear slipped down her cheek.

Ella's quill stilled mid-scratch, her gaze lifting toward her mother. The bright smile she'd worn moments ago wavered, giving way to a look of quiet concern.

"Mum, are you sad?" she asked, tilting her head as she studied Susie's face.

Susie quickly brushed the tear away with a finger and gave her daughter a warm, reassuring smile. "No, Ella. I'm just happy that you're both home again,"

Before either teen could respond, Susie straightened and cleared her throat, her familiar tone of authority returning.

"You'll need to go to bed early tonight," she stated firmly but with a hint of love In her voice. "The portkey to Sweden departs at nine o'clock sharp, and I expect you to be ready by eight."

Ella and Jakob exchanged quick glances before nodding obediently. A short while later, they said their goodnights and headed upstairs to their respective rooms.

Jakob hugged Ella outside her door, murmuring a quiet "Sleep well" before continuing down the hall to his own room.

The door clicked shut behind him, and the quiet wrapped around Jakob like an unwelcome blanket. It was the kind of silence Hogwarts never allowed with its constant buzz of life. He stayed in the doorway, his gaze fixed on his large-sized bed dominating the room.

It felt wrong not to see Pansy sitting on the edge, smirking at him or gesturing for him to come closer, her teasing voice filling the space before they eventually drifted into sleep.

Jakob let out a soft sigh, the faint sound cutting through the stillness as he stepped further inside. Though the room was his, its familiarity offered little comfort tonight. It felt colder somehow, more distant. Shaking the thought from his mind, he moved to the bathroom to wash up, his nightly routine as precise as always.

Once ready, he climbed into bed and stared at the ceiling. He tried to will his thoughts to quiet, but the stillness only made them louder. One thought pushed its way to the forefront and refused to let go.

With a frustrated sigh, he reached over to his nightstand, his fingers brushing the familiar jagged edge of the broken mirror he had kept since his first year. He lifted it carefully, cradling it as though it were something far more fragile, and then drew his wand.

"Lumos," he murmured, the tip of his wand flickering to life with a soft, steady glow. The fractured glass caught the light, scattering it in jagged patterns across the walls of his dimly lit room.

He stared into the shard, expecting to see the same image that had been his dream since that night in the chamber—the memory of himself standing triumphantly, his friends flanking him as his loyal followers. But as the light danced across the broken surface, the reflection was not what he expected.

Hermione's face emerged, her smile soft yet radiant, easing the heaviness in his chest like honey melting into warm tea. For a moment, the chaos in his mind stilled, her familiar expression silencing the noise within as if someone had flipped a switch.

A faint, sad smile appeared as he studied her image. "I'm so sorry, Hermione," he whispered, his voice barely audible. "I'm sorry."

He fought against the sting of tears threatening to rise, the lump in his throat tightening as he watched her smile back at him. It felt so real, so achingly familiar, that his heart clenched when he saw it.

Her lips moved, forming words he couldn't hear, but he didn't need to. He knew them instantly. It was what he had yearned for most since that day. The words he longed to believe were true.

"It's alright, Jakob. I forgive you," her reflection mouthed, giving him a warm, forgiving smile.

---

Jakob woke to the sound of knocking at his door, sharp enough to pull him from the last threads of sleep but gentle enough to not make him flinch. Susie's firm voice followed soon after.

"Jakob, get ready. We leave in an hour, so dress quickly and come down for breakfast."

Rubbing the lingering drowsiness from his eyes, the teenager swung his legs over the side of the bed, the morning air's chill biting at his skin. He dressed mechanically, pulling on his robes and smoothing out any creases before catching his reflection in the mirror. Though still slightly tousled from sleep, his hair needed only one flick of his wand to be as impeccable as the rest of him. With a small nod to himself, he turned and headed downstairs.

In the dining room, Ella sat slumped over the table, her spoon trailing lazy circles through a bowl of porridge. Her eyes blinked heavily, and she barely looked up when Jakob entered, murmuring a half-hearted greeting under her breath.

The kitchen door swung open, and Feemey appeared, balancing a tray stacked with a bowl of fresh fruits and three plates piled high with bacon, sausages, and scrambled eggs. Despite the early hour, the house elf's bright voice cut through the sleepy atmosphere. "Good morning, Master Jakob. Feemey has made extra breakfast so Master won't go hungry when he travels," she chirped, her wide eyes sparkling enthusiastically.

"Did master sleep well?"

Jakob offered her a small nod as he took his seat. "Yes, thank you, Feemey," he replied politely, his attention already shifting to the steaming food. He reached for the eggs and bacon, piling them neatly onto his plate, his mouth watering as he took in the scent.

Feemey had long since mastered his preferences, and now, as the familiar flavours reached his tongue, Jakob gave the tiny house elf a thumbs up as a show of approval.

Once breakfast was finished, the trio prepared to depart, making their way to the fireplace in the grand hall. "Floo Powder first," Susie instructed briskly and reassuringly.

Jakob stepped forward, throwing a pinch of powder into the flames before calling out their destination. The green flames engulfed him, spinning his world into a blur before depositing him in the Ministry of Magic's Floo Network terminal.

Moments later, Ella and Susie joined him, their forms appearing with the same flash of green fire. After navigating through the bustling Ministry, they arrived at a small office where a portkey awaited them. A worn, oversized sweater was laid out on the desk.

"Everyone, grab hold," Susie instructed as she wrapped her hand around one of the sweater's sleeves.

Jakob and Ella followed suit, their fingers brushing against the rough fabric just as the portkey activated. The familiar tug at his navel yanked Jakob forward, his stomach lurching as the world spun into a blur of light and colour. The sensation was disorienting but expected, a chaotic rush that ended as abruptly as it began.

When they landed, Jakob slightly stumbled, his boots sinking deep into the snow that reached his knees. Around them, the forest stretched wide and tall, blanketed in pristine white. Towering fir trees framed the landscape, their dark green needles heavy with frost. The crisp air carried the distant chirping of birds, a sound that felt almost out of place in the quiet stillness.

"Let's see here," Susie began as she pulled her wand from her robes and laid it in her open palm.

"Point me," she commanded firmly, and the wand spun a few times before stopping sharply to the left.

"This way," she said as she stepped into the thick snow without hesitation. Jakob and Ella shared a quick glance and followed close behind, moving carefully over the uneven ground hidden beneath the snow.

Jakob's eyes moved over their surroundings as they walked through the forest. The trees stood still, their thick trunks untouched by the cold wind whispering through the branches. The crunch of snow under their boots and the faint chirp of a bird were the only sounds breaking the quiet. There were no signs of people or any Rite, only the endless stretch of white and green ahead.

"Susie?" Jakob asked as he helped Ella step over a root hidden beneath the snow. "Where exactly are we?"

Susie glanced back with a calm and focused expression as she spoke. "We're in a place called the Great Woods just outside an ancient city known as Uppsala. This land holds centuries of history, millennia even, filled with stories and rituals older than most care to remember."

Jakob's brow lifted slightly as he looked around. Despite having the cold biting at his legs, he couldn't shake the thought that this place might not be so bad after all.

"Are we there yet?" Ella asked as she brushed the snow off her robes in one sharp motion, her voice carrying a note of impatience as the obstacles hidden beneath the thick white layer kept making her lose her balance.

"Almost, dear," Susie replied soothingly as her eyes focused on the forest ahead. "I believe it should be right around…"

Before she could finish, Susie vanished. It was as if she had walked straight into an invisible wall and disappeared inside it.

Jakob and Ella froze, their eyes meeting in shock. Neither of them moved momentarily, but then they hurried forward to the spot where Susie had disappeared.

Jakob felt it the instant he stepped forward—a strange resistance pressing against him, like moving through thick, invisible fabric. The sensation lasted only a second before he pushed through, the forest dissolving around him.

They now stood in a small village that seemed to grow naturally from the landscape. Wooden houses and tents blended seamlessly with the giant trees and thick vegetation as though the structures had always belonged there. Gravel paths twisted and turned around the homes, some leading to places Jakob couldn't see, their ends hidden by the dense greenery.

Jakob's gaze roamed, his amazement growing with each detail. It was hard to believe something so intricate and alive could be hidden away from the rest of the world.

The village buzzed softly with activity. Wizards and witches moved about, some dressed in familiar robes, while others wore outfits that every teenage boy would find very intriguing. Their clothing seemed to echo the environment around them—simple, minimalistic, and what he could only describe as nature-friendly.

A woman passed close by, drawing his attention. She glanced at him, offering a wink as her lips curled into a playful smile. Jakob stared, caught off guard by her appearance.

She wore a wolf pelt draped over her back, the fur shifting slightly as she walked. A necklace of bones rested against her chest, matching the smaller bones dangling from her ears. Her blond hair hung loose, a little dirty but giving her an untamed, wild look. Her leather skirt and bra left her midriff exposed, revealing toned muscle beneath her pale skin.

What struck him most, however, was the staff she carried. Runes etched its surface in intricate patterns, interwoven with carvings Jakob didn't recognise. The staff gave off an aura of power, one he couldn't quite define.

As she walked away, her hips swayed, and Jakob realised she knew he was still staring. He shook himself, finally dragging his eyes away. So this must be a druid, he thought, a faint heat rising to his cheeks as he refocused on the village around him.

When the woman disappeared into the crowd, Jakob pulled himself from his thoughts and glanced around, his amazement growing with every step. With Ella close at his side, he fell behind Susie as they followed her deeper into the village.

Ahead of them, the cluster of wooden houses and tents gave way to a smaller clearing where the village seemed to tighten into something more intentional.

"This is Odeila," Susie said with a calm voice tinged with quiet pride. "It's similar to Diagon Alley but much older. Over the years, it's been transformed for their sacred rites. Once we've unpacked, you'll have time to walk around and explore."

Jakob nodded, his gaze drifting from one fascinating sight to the next. He caught glimpses of market stalls laden with items he couldn't begin to name and paths leading off into shadowed alcoves among the trees. Even Ella, who had been sulking moments earlier, was now wide-eyed, her head swivelling as she tried to take it all in.

They finally stopped at a small red house nestled close to the edge of the clearing. Its rustic charm made Jakob think it was usually a shop, but now its painted sign had been taken down, and its windows were shuttered. It looked temporary as if it had been set aside specifically for their stay during the festival.

Susie and Ella disappeared inside with their bags in tow, their footsteps fading as they entered. Jakob moved to follow, his boot reaching the first of the stone steps when a voice to his left stopped him mid-motion.

"Mr. Quade?"

The voice, polite but uncertain, made Jakob pause. He turned toward the sound with a furrowed brow, trying to place it. Standing on the stone steps of the red house beside his was Mrs Potter, her face touched with surprise and confusion as she looked at him.

"Mum, I can't find it—where…"

The words trailed off as Ivy stepped outside, stopping abruptly when she noticed her mother staring at something. Following her gaze, her eyes landed on Jakob. For a moment, both of them seemed equally stunned.

"Quade?" Ivy said as she stepped closer, her tone carrying both surprise and disbelief while her arms crossed instinctively.

Ella stepped out, her usual energy radiating as she beamed at the two strangers.

"Hello! My name is Ella. What's yours? Do you know Jakob?"

Jakob sighed quietly and stepped closer, lowering his voice as he whispered, "Ella, go inside," while gently nudging her toward the house.

Ella frowned and stood her ground, shoving him back—harder. Jakob didn't glare at her, but the slight tightening of his jaw betrayed his frustration.

Lily Potter watched the exchange with a warm smile, her expression soft and kind. Ivy, however, looked taken aback. Her eyes moved between the small, fearless girl and Jakob, who she had always considered the embodiment of cold malice. Seeing Ella so unfazed—and Jakob responding without his usual aggressiveness or hate—left her momentarily speechless.

"Why? Don't you know them? They said your name," Ella said, ignoring Jakob's efforts and turning back to the Potters.

Lily stepped forward, placing a gentle hand on her daughter's shoulder. "Hello," she said warmly. "My name is Lily Potter, and this is my daughter Ivory."

Ella tilted her head slightly, taking them in with open curiosity, while Lily's smile grew. "You must be Jakob's little sister," she continued. "It's a pleasure to meet you."

Ella grinned, seemingly pleased, though Jakob shifted slightly, clearly uncomfortable with the attention. Ivy stood stiffly, her arms folded and her gaze distant, as though she wanted no part of the conversation unfolding before her.

Ella was about to respond when Susie's voice interrupted from the doorway.

"Jakob, you and Ella need to unpack before you rush—"

Her maternal tone carried easily as she stepped outside, but the words faltered when her eyes landed on Lily and Ivy. For a brief moment, surprise flickered across her face before she straightened, clearing her throat and shifting her tone to something more formal.

"I… I mean, heir Quade, might I borrow Ella so we can settle your bags?" she questioned in a more submissive tone.

This wasn't what he wanted. This trip was supposed to be a break from all of it—for Ella, for Susie, for himself. But now, with Lily and Ivy standing there, Susie had to fall into the role she had to play in public. That of a blood slave.

Jakob's mask slipped for the briefest moment, his lips tightening as his gaze flicked toward Susie. A flinch of frustration, or perhaps guilt, passed through him before he quickly schooled his features again.

Ivy's sharp eyes caught it, though, and for a second, her expression softened before she quickly looked away.

Oblivious to the tension, Ella nodded and followed Susie inside, skipping cheerfully ahead. Glancing between Jakob and the doorway, Lily wore a slightly confused expression.

"Well… we should be doing the same," she said, smiling lightly at Jakob. "It was a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Quade." With a polite nod, she turned and disappeared into their cabin.

Jakob sighed as he turned toward the door.

"I won't tell my mum who they are to you," Ivy said, her voice low but steady. "I won't tell anyone I even saw you here, if that helps."

Jakob glanced back over his shoulder with a snort. "Why would I care?"

Ivy shrugged, crossing her arms tighter as a gentle breeze swept past them, her hair shifting slightly with the wind. "I noticed it—the change."

Jakob's eyes narrowed. "Why would you even help me? I've done nothing for you to—"

"But you have done something," she interrupted, her voice faltering as she looked down for a moment. "For my friend."

They both stood silently, one glaring at the other, who was trying to find the right words. She closed her eyes, deciding to continue. "You did something for Hermione… when no one else did." There was a flicker of guilt in her expression, faint but visible.

Jakob didn't move, his gaze fixed on her as if trying to uncover some hidden motive. But there wasn't one. Deep down, he'd already known. The redheaded Potter had figured it out long ago, and yet she'd kept his secret—her silence a choice, not an accident.

Scoffing, he turned away, stepping up the stone stairs. "Do whatever the bloody hell you want, Potter. I'll never care."

Without another glance, he disappeared into the house, the door closing firmly behind him."

---

As Jakob stepped into the cabin, he paused, his gaze sweeping across the cramped space. The air inside was tinged with the scent of damp wood and old soot, a far cry from the polished comfort of home. His boots scuffed against the creaky wooden floor as he moved, each step amplifying the structure's raw simplicity. "My tent at home has more comfort than this," he remarked, the edge in his voice softened by amusement.

The room itself was basic, centred around a fire pit ringed by four uneven benches. Above it, a narrow chimney rose, its blackened stone speaking to years of practical, primitive use. Jakob's eyes caught on the cauldron hanging there, its surface streaked with rust and grime. It wasn't for brewing potions, he thought, with a dry chuckle, but it was more likely for boiling water, maybe.

His attention shifted left toward a small doorway without a door. Beyond it, Susie and Ella worked quietly, arranging pelts on two makeshift wooden beds.

The harsh edges of the frame and the coarse material covering it made Jakob frown. He leaned against the doorway and crossed his arms as he regarded Susie.

"Are you really going to sleep in that bed, Susie?" His words were flat, and his gaze stayed on the rough bedding, looking at it with clear disapproval.

She turned, brushing stray strands of greying hair from her face as she smiled at him. "Don't worry about me, Jakob," she said lightly, a touch of warmth in her voice. "Your room is over there."

Her gesture drew his eyes to another doorway, this one leading to a space on the right. There, a larger bed awaited—still simple but undeniably more accommodating, with thick black fur draped across it.

"That bloody shit," Jakob muttered, the words slipping out as he spun on his heel, striding back toward Susie and Ella. His steps were quick, the floor creaking under his weight, each sound like a hammer driving home his frustration.

He didn't say a word as he reached for Susie's bag, scooping up the items she'd neatly laid out. Before Susie or Ella could even register what was happening, he turned and went back.

"Jakob, what are you doing?" Susie's voice rose behind him, a mix of confusion and alarm as she hurried after him. By the time she caught up, he was already setting her things down on the larger bed.

He turned to face her, giving her a strained smile. "Father must have made a mistake," he explained with a clipped but certain tone. "You're sleeping here. Ella and I will take the other room."

Susie froze, her mouth opening slightly before her expression softened. She stepped closer, lifting a hand to touch his cheek. "Jakob," she began gently, her voice dipping into that calm, knowing tone she always used when he was being stubborn. "That's sweet, but it's not necessary. It's not fitting for you to sleep in a bed like that. I'll manage, like I always do."

Her smile stayed in place, but her gaze grew heavier. "Your father knows I can handle it. This isn't about hurting me, Jakob. You know that."

Jakob closed his eyes briefly at the touch, drawing strength from it. When he opened them again, he caught her hand in his and gave it a small squeeze. "Please, Susie. Father's not here now. Just… let me take care of you this once. You know you won't get any proper rest on that thing. Ella and I are young—we'll be fine. Please, let me do this for you."

For a moment, her composure cracked. Tears welled in her eyes as she pulled him into a hug, holding him tightly.

Jakob returned the embrace without hesitation, his arms wrapped firmly around her.

"Mum? Jake? What's wrong?" Ella's voice broke the quiet, and they both turned toward her.

Susie stepped back quickly, dabbing at her eyes. "Nothing, dear," she said, her voice steady now. "There's just been a little change of plans. I'll sleep here, and you'll share the other room with Jakob. Is that alright?"

Ella's eyes darted to the smaller beds, then back to Jakob. Understanding dawned in her expression, and she walked over, wrapping her arms around him.

"It's going to be perfect," she said softly, the words muffled against his shoulder.

Once they had settled in, Jakob lay stretched out on his bed, watching the soft and delicate snowflakes drift down and cling to the glass, turning the village beyond into a gentle haze. The faint hum of activity outside blended with the quiet sounds of Susie tidying up in the next room.

"Susie," Jakob called, his voice carrying just enough to be heard over her movements. "Why are we even living like this?"

The shuffling paused, and Susie stepped into the doorway, a cleaning cloth in her hand. She tilted her head, studying him for a moment before answering. "The Swedish people are funny that way," she said. "For the festival, they want us—and everyone here—to feel like we're part of the Old World. Modern comforts are forbidden during this time."

Jakob nodded slowly, his lips curving into a faint, wry smile. "And they'll probably sell better things at the market because of it," he mused. "That's pretty Slytherin of them."

Susie chuckled softly, shaking her head as she returned to her work.

By the time Susie had finished cleaning, and Ella had completed her exploration of every inch of the small house, the dim light of the afternoon had begun to fade. Deciding they'd spent enough time inside, they bundled up and stepped out into the crisp evening air, the distant scent of roasting meats and spices guiding them toward the promise of something warm to eat.

Jakob's gaze instinctively flicked toward the neighbouring house as they stepped outside. A quiet sense of relief settled over him when he saw no sign of the Potters inside.

"Jakob," Susie said with a firm voice, looking at the thickness of the crowd further ahead."I want you to keep an eye on Ella now."

Ella huffed, crossing her arms with an exaggerated pout. "But Mum, I'm thirteen! I'll be fourteen in a few months—I can take care of myself."

Jakob let out a soft chuckle, glancing down at her. "Good," he said lightly, "then you can keep an eye on me instead."

Ella stuck her tongue out at him, but the corner of her mouth twitched upward. With that, they stepped into the crowd, merging with the flow of people enjoying the festival.

The energy of the village had shifted. Jakob noticed fewer people wandering the paths compared to earlier, but there was still a steady hum of activity. The stands and shops lining the way never sat idle, each one hosting at least a pair of customers, their voices blending with the occasional laughter and the soft clinking of coins exchanging hands.

As they strolled deeper into the festival. Ella's eyes darted eagerly from stall to stall, her excitement uncontainable as she tugged lightly on Jakob's sleeve to point out something new every few steps.

As they wandered through the festival, Jakob's attention was drawn to a stand displaying an array of pelts. He walked closer, his curiosity piqued by the rich textures and patterns. Behind the counter stood an old witch, her weathered face framed by strands of silver hair. She looked to be in her sixties, her gentle eyes glinting with experience as she observed the customers.

"You like what you see?" she asked, her words carrying a distinct Swedish accent.

Jakob reached for one of the pelts, lifting it to inspect it more closely. Straps lined the underside, designed to hold it securely in place, and faintly etched runes decorated the back.

"It's charmed to keep you warm," the woman explained pridefully. "Even on nights when the temperature drops to -30 degrees Celsius. But," she added with a knowing smirk, "I'd still recommend staying near a fire—just in case."

Jakob tilted the pelt, his gaze lingering on the runes. "What are these for?" he asked, holding it up for her to see.

The old witch chuckled, the sound warm but coloured with amusement. "Dear boy, do you think a simple warming charm is enough when the hair on your head freezes solid in seconds? Those are enhancement runes. They draw magic from the air around you and strengthen the charm."

Jakob frowned slightly, intrigued but sceptical. "I've never heard of runes that work like that. Can they be made to strengthen, let's say, a curse?"

"No," she replied, shaking her head. "These are tailored for warming charms. My husband does the work. I just sell them." Her tone turned brisk, signalling she wasn't keen on prolonging the conversation.

Jakob nodded, understanding the subtle cue. Glancing down at his winter robes, he could already feel the cold creeping through, biting at his skin. If he was feeling it, then Ella and Susie surely were, too.

"Ella, Susie—come here," he called, motioning for them to join him.

Ella's eyes lit up as she approached, already reaching for the nearest pelt. "Really? We get to pick one?" she asked, excitement spilling into her voice.

"Yes," Jakob said simply, picking up a darker pelt for himself.

Susie hesitated, her hands falling to her sides. Normally, she would have refused such an offer outright, her instincts as a servant ingrained too deeply to allow otherwise. But the cold was already creeping in, and as a blood slave, she had no Galleons of her own to spare. Thomas had always been the provider, ensuring such needs were met, but with him absent, that responsibility now rested on Jakob.

Susie finally reached for a pelt with a small, reluctant nod, her fingers brushing over the fur as if testing whether she was truly allowed to take it. Jakob gave no sign of disapproval, his focus elsewhere, and that silent permission seemed enough for her to proceed.

Once they'd each chosen a pelt that suited them, they slipped them on over their winter clothes. The change was immediate. The biting chill receded, replaced by a comforting warmth that eased the tension in their muscles.

Ella sighed contentedly, hugging the soft fur around her shoulders. "This is amazing," she murmured, her cheeks returning with some colour.

Jakob adjusted the straps of his pelt and nodded. "Good," he said with a calm tone. "Let's move on."

They walked through the bustling village, the hum of voices blending with the warm flicker of firelight. Vendors called out to passersby, their hands waving eagerly to draw attention to their wares.

At one stall, a woman with piercing brown eyes and dark braided hair spotted Ella and beckoned her over with an enthusiastic wave.

Jakob noticed Ella's curious, wide-eyed expression and sighed, shaking his head with a soft chuckle as he followed.

"Ahh, such a lovely young lady," the shopkeeper said warmly as they approached. She turned quickly, pulling out a long blue dress adorned with intricate golden embroidery. "This would make you look like a druid, and a rather beautiful one at that."

Ella gasped, her eyes lighting up as the dress shimmered faintly in the firelight. The deep blue fabric was accented with embroidered runes and symbols, giving the impression of a starry night caught in motion. White fur lined the neckline and cuffs, adding a touch of warmth to its striking appearance.

"Go ahead, feel it," the shopkeeper encouraged, motioning for Ella to look closer.

Ella ran her fingers over the fabric, marvelling at its softness, and peeked inside to find the same white fur padded into the lining. It seemed to be designed for beauty and practicality in equal measure.

"It's enchanted," the shopkeeper added, lowering her voice as though sharing a secret. "The runes protect the wearer from minor hexes and charms, perfect for a young witch just starting out. It also has a warming charm, though not as strong as the one on your pelt." She nodded toward the pelts they had bought earlier. "Hans makes his for comfort, but mine are for beauty."

Ella's gaze remained fixed on the dress as the shopkeeper carefully draped it over her shoulders, guiding her toward a nearby mirror.

"Look at that," the woman said, her voice brimming with pride.

Ella stared at her reflection, awestruck. The dress seemed to mould to her frame perfectly, the embroidered runes shimmering faintly with the shifting firelight. She turned slowly, watching the hem sway gracefully, a broad smile spreading across her face.

"It's beautiful," she whispered, her voice filled with awe.

Jakob sighed, crossing his arms as he leaned back slightly. He could already tell where this was going, and the shopkeeper, noticing his reluctance, pressed her advantage.

"She looks like a shieldmaiden of legend, doesn't she?" she said with a smile, folding the dress with deliberate care. "A treasure for a girlfriend—"

"Sister," Jakob and Ella interrupted in unison, earning a hearty laugh from the shopkeeper.

"Even more important then," the woman replied smoothly, her smile growing wider. "A sister deserves nothing but the best."

Jakob hesitated, his gaze shifting to Ella, who clutched the dress with shining eyes. With a resigned huff, he pulled out his coin pouch. "How much?"

The shopkeeper helped Ella slip her pelt over her shoulders. The white fur matched perfectly, blending seamlessly with the dress as if it had been made for it. She looked like she belonged at a grand winter Viking-inspired wedding.

Susie, who had been perusing another stall nearby, suddenly caught sight of her daughter skipping past, practically glowing in her new outfit. She paused, her brows lifting in surprise as she turned toward Jakob, who was still at the stall handing over the coins.

"He really does spoil her," Susie murmured, shaking her head with a soft sigh.

When Jakob caught up with Susie, she tried to fix him with a reprimanding look, but the defeated smile and slight shrug of his shoulders softened her expression. A quiet chuckle escaped her before she could stop it. She knew as well as he did—Jakob could never truly say no to Ella.

They continued browsing the stalls, the warm light of lanterns and enchanted flames casting soft, golden hues over the marketplace. Jakob noticed that the more he purchased, the more the vendors seemed to focus their attention on them.

At one stall, a clerk caught Susie's gaze as it lingered briefly on a pair of earrings. "Go on," the man urged with an encouraging smile. "Try them on; they'll suit you perfectly."

Susie shook her head politely, already stepping away. But the clerk was persistent, continuing to offer her compliments.

Jakob sighed softly and stepped forward, fishing out a few coins. Without another word, he paid for the earrings—and a matching necklace—and handed Susie the small paper bag.

"Jakob, you are trowing away money," Susie said, with a low and disappointing tone as her fingers hesitated on the bag.

He gave her a faint, knowing smile, his expression both amused and resigned. "Only if you don't accept it," he replied, already turning away.

Susie frowned, her lips pressing together as if to argue, but the words didn't come. Instead, her fingers curled protectively around it as she accepted the bag.

As they walked on, Jakob caught her glancing down at it. For a brief moment, her expression softened, and a shy smile flickered across her face, reminiscent of how Ella looked before she quickly composed herself.

Their shopping spree continued, Ella, skipping ahead, her face alight with joy as she carried her growing collection of treasures. Susie, however, looked far less pleased.

"Ella," she said sharply, looking at the bags in exasperation, "you don't have any money. Stop running over to them every time they call you. Jakob can't buy the whole market for you."

Jakob raised an eyebrow, a faint challenge glinting in his eyes. Susie caught the look and gave him a pointed glare. "He won't buy the whole market for you."

Ella looked sheepish, her gaze darting to him as though expecting him to defend her.

"It's fine, Susie," Jakob interjected smoothly, his tone calm but firm. "It's just for today. I made a promise last year. Do you remember?"

He turned to Ella, his expression softening slightly. "And Ella, everything you're getting here counts as your Christmas gifts, alright?"

Ella nodded quickly, her earlier sheepishness melting away into a bright smile as she hugged the bags tighter to her chest.

As the sun dipped completely below the horizon and snowflakes began to drift lazily from the sky, Jakob, Ella, and Susie felt their hunger start to take over.

They made their way toward a large brown wooden house, its weathered exterior illuminated by flickering lanterns. Above the door hung a sign depicting a pig roasting over a fire pit. Beneath the image, bold text spelled out:

Den glada grisen.

---

Jakob pushed the heavy door open, letting a wave of warm, fragrant air spill out to greet them. Inside, the room was lit by a massive central fire pit, the crackling flames casting dancing shadows across the walls.

In the middle of the pit, a pig was being turned magically on a spit, its golden skin glistening. Slices of perfectly cooked meat floated upward, landing gracefully on empty plates that hovered and zipped through the air to diners seated around the room.

Two long tables stretched across the space, crowded with witches and wizards. Many of them bore tattoos of intricate runes Jakob had never seen before, their inked designs winding down arms, shoulders, and necks.

Ella darted ahead, weaving through the clusters of people until she found an empty spot near the centre. She waved her arms wildly, her face flushed with excitement.

"Over here!" she called out, but her small voice was drowned beneath the lively noise of the room. Music, laughter, and conversations all melded together, making it a rather cosy environment.

Jakob and Susie eventually spotted her and made their way over, slipping into seats on either side of Ella. They settled in, letting the room's warmth chase away the lingering chill from outside, and waited for a server to approach.

Before long, a woman appeared, weaving expertly through the crowd. She looked to be around Susie's age, her dark hair tied back loosely, and her movements were as fluid as the quill and parchment that floated beside her.

Jakob's gaze lingered for a moment longer than it should have. Unlike the natives they had seen earlier, her outfit was slightly more refined—a snug leather shirt, only partially buttoned, paired with practical trousers that still managed to highlight her figure. His cheeks warmed somewhat, though he kept his expression neutral.

"Welcome to the Happy Pig," the woman greeted them warmly. "My name is Helga. What can I get for you to eat?"

Jakob glanced toward Ella and Susie, who both seemed unsure as they exchanged hesitant looks. Turning back to the server, he caught how a loose curl of her brown hair fell across her face as she turned to signal someone across the room, gesturing that she'd be there shortly.

"Do you have a menu?" Jakob asked.

The woman smiled warmly, snapping her fingers with practised ease. From a desk across the room, three menus floated into the air and zipped toward them, landing softly on the table in front of each of them.

"I'll return shortly," she said before hurrying off to tend to a rowdy table, calling for her attention.

Jakob opened the menu and scanned it. It offered an assortment of roasted and smoked meats, all served with bread and a simple salad. When he turned the page to the drinks section, he noticed only water was nonalcoholic—a choice that left little room for debate.

"What are you two having?" Jakob asked, glancing between Ella and Susie.

Ella's eyes stayed fixed on the firepit in the centre of the room with a hungry gaze as she watched the enchanted pig turn on the spit. "I think I'll have… The roasted pig with bread and salad," she said, not letting her eyes let go of the pig.

Susie placed her menu down gently with a thoughtful expression as she surveyed the bustling room. "I'll have the same," she said with a small nod, her interest clearly more focused on her surroundings than the food.

Jakob nodded, setting his own menu aside as well. His gaze lingered on Susie briefly, noting the faint sparkle in her eyes as she watched the lively room. How many times has she been able to do something like this? He wondered quietly.

The waiter returned, her quill and parchment floating beside her. Jakob didn't hesitate. "We'll have three of the roasted pig with bread and salad," he said, nodding toward the menus they had placed aside.

"Anything to drink?" the waitress asked, her gaze shifting between the three of them.

"Water for all three will be fine," Susie said swiftly, cutting off Jakob just as he opened his mouth to answer.

The waitress's eyes lingered on Jakob, her lips curving into a faint smile. "The drinking age in Sweden is 17," she said, her tone light and teasing as she nodded toward him.

Ella tilted her head, her brow furrowing. "He isn't 17," she informed, genuine confusion threading through her voice as though the thought itself baffled her.

The woman chuckled, waving a hand as if to brush off the matter. "Well," she mused out loud with a playful grin, "I might make an exception for a 16-year-old."

"He's 14!" Susie exclaimed, her incredulous tone cutting through the tavern's lively hum of music and chatter.

Jakob, who had been following the exchange with barely concealed hope, sagged in his seat, his face falling like a punctured balloon.

The waitress blinked, surprise flickering across her face as she gave Jakob another once-over. "Oh, I'm sorry," her smile spreading as she struggled to hold back a laugh. "You just looked older." Her amusement lingered momentarily before she added, "Your orders will be ready shortly."

As she walked away, Jakob noticed her stop at the counter, leaning in to whisper something to a bald man with a short white beard who stood behind the bar.

The man, who resembled a bear with a beer belly, paused mid-swipe of cleaning glass and threw his head back in deep, booming laughter that echoed through the restaurant.

When their food arrived, the rich aroma of roasted pork wafted up from the plates. Jakob took his first bite and immediately paused, his fork hovering mid-air as he looked down at the meat in awe. It was tender, perfectly seasoned, and melted in his mouth like nothing he'd ever tasted before.

"Shit, this is good!" Jakob exclaimed, his words barely audible through a mouthful of food as he dove in with unrestrained enthusiasm.

"Jakob!" Susie scolded, delivering a light slap to his shoulder. Though her tone carried a hint of reproach, the spark of amusement in her eyes gave her away. She caught Ella's gaze, and the two shared a knowing look before Ella burst into a fit of giggles.

As they ate, the restaurant's warmth and the rich Flavors of the meal seemed to melt away the day's tension. Jakob was halfway through his plate when movement nearby caught his attention.

On the bench opposite them but slightly to the right, two figures seated themselves, shrugging off muggle-style winter jackets.

Jakob's eyes narrowed slightly as he realised it was Ivy and her mother. For a moment, they seemed unaware of his presence as they settled in.

He was about to look away when Mrs. Potter's gaze swept over and landed on him. Her face lit up in recognition.

"Oh, hello again, Mr. Quade!" Lily said warmly, standing slightly to lean across the table and offering her hand to Susie. "I never introduced myself earlier. My name is Lily Potter, and my daughter goes to school with your son and daughter. I believe your son is in the same year as Ivy."

Susie hesitated briefly before taking Lily's hand. There was a flicker of discomfort in her expression, but she nodded politely. Just as she opened her mouth to respond, Jakob spoke instead.

"She's not my mother." He gestured toward Ella beside him. "She's Ella's."

Lily blinked, caught off guard. Her smile faltered for a moment as she quickly withdrew her hand. "Oh, I'm so sorry for assuming," she apologised.

Susie gave her a polite nod, her expression carefully neutral. Jakob, however, noticed the tension in her shoulders and the subtle way she adjusted her posture as though bracing herself.

Before the silence could stretch too far, Jakob stepped in again, his voice steady and formal. "Their family is very close to mine," he began. "I invited them to join me, seeing as my father couldn't make it, Mrs. Potter."

Lilly's smile returned, a little more cautious now but still warm. "I see. That's very kind of you," she said, her gaze flicking briefly to Ivy, who was watching the exchange quietly with an unreadable expression.

Trying to break the awkward silence, Lily turned to Ella with a warm, slightly amused expression. "You look very beautiful in that dress," she said kindly. "Did you buy it here?"

Ella, her fork poised halfway to her mouth, froze. A faint blush crept across her cheeks as she glanced up. "No, Jakob bought it for me,"

Something seemed to spark in the young girl as she set her fork down. "Wait! He also bought me this!" she exclaimed, diving into the cluster of bags at her feet. The Potters followed her movement, their eyes widening as they took in the sheer number of bags piled around her.

"You bought her all of that?" Ivy asked, her tone a mix of disbelief and curiosity as her gaze shifted to Jakob. In all her time at Hogwarts, she had never imagined him as someone who would spoil anyone like this.

Jakob leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms with a faint smirk. "Didn't imagine I would be—"

"Here it is!" Ella cut in, pulling out a headband made from a delicate string adorned with small, rune-shaped bones. She carefully slipped it on, adjusting one of the rune bones before striking a playful pose that drew a chuckle from Jakob.

Before Lily could compliment her, a voice boomed from a nearby table where five men, clearly locals, were seated. "You look like the goddess Freja herself!" one called, raising his goblet. "Björn, look—it's Freja!"

The man named Björn turned, his broad grin visible even from across the room. He and the others raised their goblets, cheering toward Ella with enthusiasm.

Ella's face turned even redder as she stammered a shy "Thank you" before quickly sitting back down. Though clearly pleased by the attention, her embarrassment shone like a beacon.

Jakob glanced at her, smirking as she fiddled with her headband, trying not to make eye contact with anyone. "Freja, huh?" he teased lightly, earning an exasperated look from Ella that quickly turned into a reluctant giggle.

After that, the conversation between the Potter matriarch and the Quade family flowed a little easier. Susie, who had braced herself for Jakob to mimic Thomas's prejudiced behaviour when speaking to a mud bloods, inwardly sighed in relief as he remained civil. Seeing no brewing confrontation, she visibly relaxed a little and even joined the conversation when addressed.

For Jakob, the choice was simple. He had no idea how the Swedish magical community would react if he let slip the kind of prejudiced language his father had drilled into him. This was not Hogwarts or Britain; this was neutral ground. He decided to use the opportunity to simply be himself, leaving the weight of Thomas Quade's expectations behind for once.

But not everyone at the table was so at ease.

Ivy sat stiffly, her gaze darting between her mother and Jakob as though trying to piece together the scene before her.

The boy who had tormented her brother and hurled venomous words at people like her now spoke to her mother with a calm respect that felt entirely out of place. The contradiction twisted uncomfortably in her mind.

"Why are you talking to her like that?" Ivy blurted, unable to hold her thoughts back any longer.

Jakob turned to her with a cool and slightly curious expression. "What do you mean, Miss Potter?" he asked, meeting her gaze.

"You're speaking to my mother like that," Ivy said, her tone measured but sharp. "As if I don't know exactly how you speak to Muggle-borns—and what you call blood traitors."

"Ivy, that's enough," Lily interjected, her words carrying a firm edge as they broke through the rising tension.

But Ivy ignored her mother, her eyes still locked on Jakob's. He returned her stare, his jaw tightening slightly as their silent standoff continued.

"How do you speak to them?" Ella asked suddenly, her voice cutting through the tension and drawing the two older teens' attention. Her tone was light and genuinely curious, her gaze shifting between the four uncomfortable faces around the table.

Jakob's sharp expression softened as he turned to his Viking-looking sister in all but blood. He gave her a small smile. "It's nothing, Ella," he said gently. "Have you finished your food? Are you ready to go?"

Ella hesitated, glancing between her brother and the Potters. Susie, who had been sitting quietly, placed a hand on her daughter's shoulder and gave her a look that needed no words.

"Yes," Ella said finally, though the confusion remained in her eyes.

Lily gave Ivy a pointed glare. "I'm really sorry about this, Mr. Quade," she said apologetically. "Ivy can be… blunt at times, and it makes her come across as rude."

As he stood, Jakob waved the comment aside, gathering the last of Ella's bags. He paused briefly, his gaze flicking to the two redheads.

"It's fine, Mrs. Potter," he said, his tone polite but cool. "Have a nice day."

He gave a slight bow, a gesture more formal than the moment demanded, and turned to leave, gesturing for Susie and Ella to go ahead.

As Jakob, Susie, and Ella disappeared into the crowd, Lily turned toward Ivy, her expression hard with frustration.

"I thought this holiday would help improve your mood," she began sharply. "You said you wanted some alone time, and now I see you insulting a boy who has done absolutely nothing to us."

Ivy's glare remained steady as she held her mother's gaze. "Don't you think it's strange that he doesn't act like the rest of the pureblood society toward you?"

"You should be glad he doesn't," Lily replied firmly. "That young man is one of the few people who has treated me with respect. So don't be like your brother and father—always searching for trouble where there isn't any."

"But I've heard him," Ivy countered. "He's said the M-word before. I've heard it myself when he's with his friends."

Lily's frustration softened, her sharp tone giving way to something more reflective. Her gaze turned distant for a moment as though recalling something from long ago.

"Honey," she said gently, "don't you think that maybe now, away from them, he feels like he can be himself a little more? I once had a friend like that—a person who was one way when it was just the two of us, and a completely different person when he were with his friends."

Ivy frowned, her eyes dropping to her plate as she considered her mother's words. The tension in her shoulders didn't ease entirely, but after a long pause, she gave a small nod.

"Maybe…" she murmured, though her tone was hesitant, as if she wasn't entirely convinced.

Lily sighed, resting a hand on her daughter's shoulder. "Give people a chance to surprise you, Ivy. You never know what they might be going through."

Ivy didn't answer, but her frown softened slightly as she picked at her food, her thoughts clearly elsewhere.

---

After an afternoon of travelling, endless shopping, and a warm dinner, Susie and Ella returned to their rented house. Together, they started a fire to chase away the growing chill and began preparing for bed.

Jakob, however, wasn't ready to settle in. The allure of the village at night beckoned him, and he stepped back out into the cool evening air to explore on his own.

The torches and glowing orbs that lined the paths cast vibrant colours across the snow, painting the forest in hues of green, blue, and gold. The scene felt almost otherworldly, like something out of an ancient tale. As Jakob wandered further into the village, he noticed the crowds thinning. People were retreating to their tents and homes, and the once-lively market stalls were being shut down for the night.

He followed a winding path he thought led to a hill, his boots crunching softly against the snow-covered ground. The air grew colder with each step, and his breaths puffed out in visible clouds, growing larger as the temperature dropped.

When he finally reached the top, he paused, his gaze lifting in awe.

Before him stood a massive structure, its silhouette bold against the night sky. Shaped like an overturned Viking longboat, its sweeping curves and towering timbers gave it an aura of something both ancient and sacred.

The temple loomed over the village below, its weathered walls adorned with intricate carvings and glowing runes. Jakob's eyes lingered on the detailed depictions of magical creatures, their forms stirring faint memories of books he had skimmed earlier in the day.

An army of Draugr, their hollow eyes flickering faintly, marched across one panel, shields and swords raised as if frozen mid-battle. The wolf Fenrir dominated another section, its jaws stretched wide, ready to swallow the moon. Along the building's outer curve, a sea serpent twisted and coiled, its carved scales gleaming in the torchlight, the runes along its body seeming to shift with the flicker of flames.

Jakob's eyes lingered on the serpent and smirked. "I wonder if I'd be able to speak to it if I ever met it," he mused quietly to himself, the thought both thrilling and a bit absurd.

Stepping forward, he climbed the wide stone steps leading to the building. The torches on either side of the open gate flared brightly, their flames crackling against the stillness of the night. Jakob hesitated for only a moment before crossing the threshold as his never-ending curiosity pulled him into the building.

As Jakob stepped inside, his eyes were immediately drawn to the massive firepit at the hall's centre. It was wider and longer than any he had seen before, its flames roaring steadily, casting dancing shadows along the walls.

Towering statues lined the hall's perimeter, their immense forms stretching from the floor to where the boat-like ceiling began. Each statue had an offering table at its base, covered with trinkets, coins, and small bowls filled with unknown items.

People stood scattered around the room, their intentions as varied as their expressions. Some were praying softly, their heads bowed in reverence. Others were weeping, their faces etched with grief or hope. And then there were the tourists, who wandered from one statue to the next, pausing to look up in awe, nodding as if in approval before moving on.

Jakob turned to his right, stopping in front of a statue that caught his attention. It depicted a woman cloaked in flowing robes, a spear gripped in one hand. Her presence was commanding, her gaze carved with an intensity that seemed to follow him.

"That's the goddess Freya," came a voice behind him, and Jakob flinched. He turned quickly and found himself face-to-face with the woman he had seen earlier—the one draped in fur and leather with runes etched into her staff.

She studied him with an amused glint in her eyes, her blonde hair falling loosely over her shoulders. She looked to be in her twenties, though Jakob couldn't be certain.

"She is the goddess of many things," the woman continued in a light, reverent tone. "Magic, the future, war, death… fertility."

The last word was spoken with a pointed glance and a playful smirk that made Jakob's face flush. He quickly turned back to the statue, pretending to focus on its intricate details.

"Isn't she beautiful?" the woman asked again, stepping closer.

Jakob nodded, clearing his throat as if to steady his voice, though a faint warmth lingered on his cheeks. "Yeah, she is. But… why do magical people still believe in the old gods?"

"Old?" the woman laughed, the sound rippling through the air as her body shifted with the motion. Jakob's eyes betrayed him, drifting to the curve of her breasts, barely contained by the fur-lined bra that pushed them upward. The soft fur seemed to tease the edge of her skin, drawing his gaze downward to the taut plane of her stomach. The firelight played over the faint ridges of her toned abs, every movement catching his attention.

His eyes darted upward too late—her knowing smirk told him she'd noticed. Heat rushed to his face as he quickly looked away, inwardly cursing his lack of subtlety.

Still smiling, she tilted her head slightly, the runes on her necklace glinting in the firelight. "It's said that the gods were the first to wield magic," she explained. "And they taught it to those they deemed worthy."

Jakob frowned, his gaze still fixed on the towering statue. "So the gods just came down to earth and taught people? That seems a bit far-fetched. No disrespect, of course," he added quickly, glancing at the woman beside him.

The woman tilted her head slightly, her attention shifting back to the goddess statue. "Yes, that's about right," she confirmed calmly. "The gods would sometimes take human form and visit. Sometimes they came to help, sometimes to mate, and other times… to warn."

Jakob's curiosity was piqued as he turned back to the statue. "Warn about what?"

Instead of answering immediately, the woman gestured for him to follow her. As they walked to the next statue, her staff struck the wooden floor with each step, creating a steady, rhythmic sound.

"They could shapeshift," she began, with a tone that sounded both teaching and mysterious. She stopped in front of a statue depicting a bearded man missing one eye and two birds perched on his broad shoulders. She gestured toward it. "Take Odin, for example. He often took the form of a wandering storyteller, travelling from village to village. The stories he told often carried warnings hidden within them."

Jakob studied the statue, his eyes tracing the intricate details of the god-king's figure. "Did they do it out of the goodness of their hearts?" he asked with a sceptical tone while giving her a glance.

The woman shook her head, her blonde hair catching the warm light as it shifted with the motion. "No," she replied simply, her tone almost amused. "Everything had a price."

Jakob raised an eyebrow. "Like rituals?"

"Exactly," she said with a nod, her lips curving into a faint smile.

They continued walking until they reached another statue, this one depicting a broad man holding a hammer aloft. Jakob paused, taking in the powerful figure, before speaking again. "I don't know your name," he admitted.

The woman stopped and turned slightly, leaning on her staff. "My name is Syr," she said. "What's yours?"

"Quade. Jakob Quade," he replied, offering her a small nod.

Syr tilted her head, almost as if she were tasting the name on her tongue. "Quade," she repeated thoughtfully. "And what do you believe about the gods, Jakob Quade?"

Jakob hesitated, considering the question before answering. "I think they resemble something I read about in an old book. They give… but they always take something in return."

Syr's smile widened, and she gave him an encouraging nod. "Go on."

"A witch i read about once spoke of a gift she acquired," Jakob began thoughtfully. "But it came at a cost—sacrifice. I don't see much difference between the entity she asked and the gods you're describing."

Syr studied him momentarily, her expression giving nothing away as her gaze shifted back to the statues. Without a word, she took his hand, her fingers closing around his with a warmth and firmness that didn't waver.

Jakob stiffened at the contact, his steps faltering briefly, but he let her guide him. Together, they stepped into the crisp winter air, the silence of the night broken only by the soft crunch of snow under their boots.

"You're an interesting character, Jakob Quade," she finally said in an almost playful tone. "I'll have to see you again before you leave."

Jakob nodded. "It would be my pleasure Syr."

The woman gave him one last smile before turning and descending the steps, her figure disappearing into the shadows of the village.

---

As Jakob headed back and approached his cabin, his eyes caught Ivy sitting on her porch, her figure a shadowy outline under the faint glow of the snowy evening.

The moment her gaze found him, she stood, stepping down from the porch. The crunch of her boots against the snow seemed unusually loud in the stillness of the night as she walked toward him.

Jakob sighed inwardly, wishing he could simply slip inside and avoid her altogether. He didn't want to deal with this—especially not after the uneasy exchange earlier. Ella didn't need to know about the things he'd said or done. She didn't need to be tainted by his world, not yet.

"I'm sorry about what I said earlier," Ivy began, stopping before him. Jakob noticed the snowflakes dusting her red hair, a clear sign she'd been waiting outside for him for some time now.

He crossed his arms. "Why do you insist on talking to me? Can't you just leave me alone and go back to your mother?" he questioned coldly.

Ivy mirrored his stance, crossing her arms as well. He noted she wasn't wearing a coat and felt slightly satisfied at her discomfort, hoping that would make her wanna retreat sooner rather than later.

"I just want to understand what Hermione sees in you," she replied evenly.

Jakob's frown deepened. "What do you mean, 'what she sees in me?'"

Ivy let out a small sigh, her breath visible in the cold air. "I'm her best friend," she explained. "I know she cares about you. She's never said anything bad about you—ever. Even when the rest of us did, she stays quiet. And…" Ivy paused, her tone sharpening. "I remember the favor." She raised her hands, making air quotes around the word.

Jakob stiffened, lifting his head slightly as if to mask how unnerved he was that she knew so much, had seen so much.

"You just wanted to see her happy," Ivy said softly, giving him a faint smile.

His chest tightened as a sliver of worry crept up his spine. "You must be quite delusional, Miss Potter," he said with a harsher tone than he intended, "to come up with something so idiotic."

Ivy's expression hardened, her voice steady despite his glare. "Why do you always degrade people like that?" she asked. "Is that why you called Hermione what you did? You couldn't stand seeing her with us, so you decided to crush her by calling her a mudblood?"

The word made Jakob take a sharp step forward, his glare darkening into something murderous. "Don't speak of things you don't understand," he hissed. His voice was low, dangerous, as he leaned toward her. "I told her that she could never—"

He froze mid-sentence, realisation dawning too late. The words had already slipped from his mouth, and his mask had cracked.

Ivy's lips twisted into a victorious smirk, her eyes alight with triumph. "Got you," she said, her tone brimming with confidence.

The smugness in her expression sent a wave of fury through Jakob, and for a moment, his hand twitched toward his wand. But he caught himself, taking a steadying breath as he forced himself to rein in his emotions.

He couldn't curse the Potter girl. If anything happened to her, there was no way he'd escape the consequences. The Quade name might shield him from Azkaban, but the light side would never let him out of their sight. The sister of the Boy Who Lived was untouchable.

Still, if she wanted to paint him as some tragic hero, perhaps he could play that card back at her.

"Miss Potter," Jakob began, his voice adopting a more calm and measured tone, "now that you know the truth, would you like to hear why Hermione and I kept our friendship a secret?"

Ivy's eyes lit up, her curiosity burning brighter than the chill in the air.

She nodded so eagerly that snow tumbled from her hair, her posture shifting as she leaned forward. After months of trying to extract this information from Hermione, it was Jakob, of all people, who was now offering it to her.

"Yes," she said quickly, taking another step closer.

Jakob leaned in slightly, lowering his voice just enough to make her strain to hear him. "If my father ever found out," he said smoothly, "he'd kill me. And Hermione. Maybe even her family."

Ivy's brows knit together, confusion and disbelief warring in her expression. "Are you joking? Do you really expect me to believe that?"

Jakob's smile faded, replaced by an unflinching seriousness. "Miss Potter," he said, his tone sharpening, "my father beat me to the ground and nearly disowned me after that meeting with the headmaster last year. All because I told him that a muggle-born had bested blood traitors."

He took a step closer, his voice colder now. "If he'd do that to his own son because of that smallstatement, imagine what he'd do if he found out I'd been secretly friends with Hermione for over a year."

Ivy's confident stance faltered. She stepped back, her arms crossing again—not in defiance this time, but to shield herself from the biting cold.

Jakob's expression softened as he noticed her shiver. Without a word, he unfastened his pelt and draped it over her shoulders. She flinched at first but relaxed as the warming charm began to work, enveloping her in comforting heat.

Jakob stepped closer again, securing the strap to ensure it wouldn't slip off. Ivy looked up at him, stunned by the unexpected gesture.

"Ivy," he began, his voice dropping to a softer tone, "I'm a pure-blooded Slytherin from an ancient, noble house. I never chose this life, but if I don't play my part, I won't live long enough to escape it." He paused, his gaze cutting through her as if he could see into her very soul. "What I said to Hermione—it was to protect her. She knew the risks. She knew everything."

Jakob finished it all with a sad, reluctant smile and turned away, his boots crunching against the snow as he strode toward the stone steps leading to his cabin.

Call me back, he thought, each step purposeful as he ascended. Call me back.

"Wait," Ivy called suddenly.

Got you. Jakob smirked to himself before turning, his expression carefully neutral as he faced her once more.

"I knew you weren't all bad," Ivy said softly, her voice carrying an unexpected warmth. "I swear I'll never tell anyone about this."

Jakob paused on the steps, turning to face her with a steady, unflinching look.

"You can't tell Hermione," he said firmly, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Ivy blinked in confusion. "Why? Why does it matter if I talk to her—"

"Because if you do, you risk exposure," Jakob interrupted in a low voice but insistent voice. "Someone might overhear."

"No one would hear. I'd be careful," she countered, crossing her arms as if to defend herself.

Jakob let out a low chuckle, his smile spreading in a way that was strangely infectious as he shook his head, the sound catching her off guard.

"What?" Ivy asked, her lips curving into an involuntary smile as she watched him. She couldn't remember ever seeing him laugh like that before.

"Hermione said those exact words once," Jakob explained, shaking his head slightly. His voice dropped, carrying a weight Ivy hadn't expected. "And now she can't even stand to look at me."

Ivy's smile faded slightly, replaced by something more subdued.

Jakob's brow furrowed as he noticed the hint of sadness in her smile. "What is it?" he asked, his voice quieter now.

"I can't even imagine the life you must live," she said, glancing away. "Hurting the people you care about… just to protect them."

Jakob held her gaze, his mind racing. This was it—the moment that would reveal if he'd played his cards right if he'd truly secured her trust. He could see the conflict in her expression, the weight of the decision she wrestled with. Everything hinged on this.

With a soft exhale, Ivy closed her eyes for a brief moment.

"I promise not to tell a soul," she finally stated in a steady voice as she met his gaze with a resolute nod.

Jakob searched her green eyes, and for the first time, he found nothing but sincerity staring back at him.

He had won.

Though he felt like he wanted to laugh in relief, he didn't show it. Instead, he gave her a small smile.

"Thank you, Ivy," he said, nodding.

Turning, he strode up the steps, his movements steady despite the relief that made him feel a bit light-headed and wanting to sit down.

"Your pelt!" Ivy called after him, clutching the fur around her shoulders.

"Keep it," Jakob replied without looking back. "As a token of my gratitude."

He disappeared inside, the door closing softly behind him.

Ivy stood in the snow, clutching the pelt tightly to her chest like a priceless treasure. A soft, almost disbelieving laugh escaped her, tears forming at the corners of her eyes.

"Hermione," she murmured, her voice carrying a mix of warmth and wonder as a faint smile curved her lips. "I think I'm starting to see what you see in him."

The creak of the door opening pulled Ivy from her thoughts, and she turned to see her mother stepping onto the porch

, a shawl wrapped tightly around her shoulders.

"Ivy, come inside," Lilly said with a worried frown. "You'll freeze to death out here."

"Yeah, Mum, I was just..." Ivy's voice trailed off as her eyes dropped to the pelt draped over her shoulders, its warmth pressing comfortingly against her skin.

Lilly's eyes landed on the fur, her brows lifting in surprise as recognition flickered across her face. "Ivy, where did you get that pelt?"

A faint blush crept into Ivy's cheeks as she avoided her mother's gaze. "Oh, just some random witch," she said quickly, her tone light but hurried. "She thought I looked cold and gave it to me." Without waiting for a response, she stepped past her mother and into the cabin.

Lilly's head tilted slightly, a curious smile softening her features as she observed that it was indeed the Quade boy's pelt draped over her daughter's shoulders. "Well, that was very kind of her," she said, closing the door gently behind them.

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