Practicing my digital drawing and couldn't help but draw up this little image of Ominis thinking about an incident with my MC Lessie Aspen. This scene is from an unreleased chapter of my story; Between Comfort and Chaos, available on AO3/Wattpad.

:)

Between Comfort and Chaos: CH 4

Link to the Previous chapter below!

Also Available on AO3/Wattpad

OminisxMC- Slooooowwww burn, Angst

Word Count: 3,241

CH 4- Magical Mishaps

Lessie POV

Garreth Weasley was at it again. His cauldron had the faint aroma of candied apples and was spewing forth a cloud of the most vibrant green smoke I had ever seen. To be honest, I found it quite impressive. Never had I witnessed someone so innovative. There were, however, others that did not appreciate his pioneering abilities.

“Honestly, Professor I did follow the recipe I promise!” His tone came off as less than trustworthy. This would be the 10th time this excuse had been used in the span of a month. None of them convincing.

“Mr. Weasley, I am beginning to suspect that you not only lack the ability to comprehend the meaning of that word but also lack the facilities to read as well. It seems that detentions are not sufficient, maybe a discussion with the Deputy Headmistress may be in order. Hmm?” A black brow raised quizzically.

“NO! No, please. I think I know what went wrong I can explain!” He backpedaled and I couldn’t help but shake my head.  

I looked across to my tablemate Leander and he smiled at me knowingly, his blue eyes lighting up with mirth. We had a running bet on if Garreth would make it to the end of the semester or if Professor Sharp would transfigure the boy into a toad. So far, the results were out, but it appeared to be leaning in my favor.

Professor Sharp on the other hand was past the stage of rebuke and was trying to have the Weasley boy walk him through the process step-by-step of how this could have possibly happened. His irritation was becoming more apparent with every word Weasley spoke. We were supposed to be brewing a simple Erudus potion, and it only contained two ingredients. Two! How could he possibly think Sharp wouldn’t notice? The two potions looked nothing alike and a misstep this vast could only be caused by someone tampering with it or Weasley himself experimenting, which was likely the case. Neither option would play out in his favor.

Leander leaned over, whispering “At this rate, I am going to have to buy the whole of Honeydukes for you.”

“Yeah, maybe.” My voice came out a bit despondent.  

I would normally be laughing right along with the rest of the class, but I had been worried about the fact that our third tablemate, Ominis had not shown up for class. He was never late, let alone skipped. More so than not he was always the first one here. The only other time this had happened was when Leander hid his wand in the girl’s lavatory towards the end of 5th year. Ominis, with his gentle nature, had simply refused to go after it stating something or other about propriety. We had all matured since the incident, so I didn’t suspect bullying. Plus, the culprit was right across from me laughing. Leander had matured since then and I counted him among my friends. His past snobbery forgotten.

“Is there something on your mind? Usually, you’d be one of the first to crack a joke at Garreth’s expense?” Leander asked with concern as he handed me a shaggy gray mass.

I gave him a shrug and took up my scissors, cutting off a patch of mongrel fur from a hide we were sharing. It was softer than usual as I had taken extra care to prepare it well with the help of our groundskeeper. The man was a genius with hide preservation and fresh ingredients were always best after all.

“I suppose you could say so. I find it rather odd that our third hasn’t shown up to class.”

Leander leaned over his cauldron to keep his voice to a whisper. “Ah, well I did see him while I was walking over here.”

“Did you now?” My eyes lit up and I leaned closer.

He flashed me a handsome smile that reached his eyes. “I did, and it’s all rather scandalous.”

“Oh, come now. Ominis and scandalous hardly belong in the same sentence. Where did you see him?”

“Uh-uh, tit-for-tat dear. I can’t tell you without the promise of a reward. After all It seems this is very valuable intel for you.”

I gave his shoulder a playful smack but leaned in closer, meeting his eyes.

“Alright, and what would you like in exchange?”

His hand reached out and tucked a stray curl behind my ear, never breaking eye contact. There was a shift in his gaze as his pupils constricted.

“I will have to think on that. Can’t say there’s much I could ask of you currently.”

“Very well. You can redeem it at your leisure. Now, where did you see Ominis?”

Leander let out a laugh as Sharp smacked a book on a desk by the Weasley boy.

“He was asleep, on the floor by the large atrium window.”

I nodded and we resumed our work. So much for precious intel, that was normal behavior on Gaunts part. He reminded me of the cats that roamed the school, always finding a little place to bask in the sun for a quick reprieve. I threw the ingredients into my cauldron and leaned back stretching looking over at Sebastian’s workstation. His potion was already neatly bottled and set aside. As always, he was one of the first done. His lips were upturned into a smirk as he relished in the delight of Garreth getting chewed out. We locked eyes briefly and he waved his hand, beckoning me over to him.

With a quick request for Leander to watch my potion, I got up and walked to the other table.

“Listen, I know I shouldn’t be asking you this since you have that date planned for later…”

My face lit up with a blush, “For the last time Sebastian, stop calling it a date. We are going to do a bloody Merlin Trail!”

“Right, right. Just a friend, who you are going on an overnight trip with… just remember that Ominis talks in his sleep. It can get kind of bothersome since he’s a clinger too, from what I remember.” He poked my shoulder playfully shooting me a cheeky wink.

I palmed my face in frustration before replying. “You and I have had plenty of overnight trips together. Yet here we are, just friends. Honestly, this isn’t the muggle world guys and girls can be just friends. It isn’t that deep.”

He frowned slightly at the first part but quickly corrected his features. If I didn’t know any better, I would think he was jealous. Surely not, we had spent nearly all summer together. He cleared his throat, eyes downcast. 

“You’re right it isn’t.” He took a breath and then looked into my eyes, serious demeanor returning. “I have a favor to ask. It shouldn’t take too long but I would greatly appreciate the assistance.”

The way he was dragging this out was starting to make me suspicious. Usually when he asked favors of me, they fell into two categories. The first, innocent and often simple things he could do on his own but just wanted company. The second, dangerous and deadly, often resulting in at least someone getting maimed or worse, dying. I was really hoping it was the first one as I wanted to start my weekend off on a high note.

“Spit it out!” I commanded impatiently, not wanting to face Sharps’ ire for being out of my seat. Luckily, he was still distracted with the disaster across the classroom. Garreth had begun to debate the benefits of experimentation vs. following recipes. I was going to win that bet.

“I was in the Three Broomsticks a couple days ago, just sitting in the corner next to the fire. Having myself a nice pint of butterbeer, listening to conversations like I usually do when these three blokes come in. Lessie, when I say they looked wild I mean it with every essence of the word! They were dressed head to toe in dragon skin. I’ve never seen anything like it.” 

“I mean I have,” I quipped with a smirk.

“Oh, hush we can’t all have whimsical childhoods.”

One of the downfalls of Sallow telling any story was that he had the disposition to turn into a bard, stretching out the tale and embellishing it to try and get your attention so you’d be eager to comply. It was a manipulation tactic that in the past I never really picked up on. I honestly just thought he was charismatic. He was, no doubt, but his voice often took on a specific undetectable tone when he was weaving in his desires for cooperation. He was hiding something, that much was obvious.

“Just get to the point, I don’t need the whole fairy tale.”

He furrowed his brows in annoyance giving a pout and then carried on, “As I was saying…...well turns out they’re dragon dealers, and not the sanctioned kind. They were due to unload some ‘cargo.’” He gave me a wink signaling that the cargo was in fact not merely cargo. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t intrigued with dismantling a poacher ring.

“After a few rounds they started talking about the Northford Bog and which cave would best suit their needs for this large cargo. They mentioned one just west of the hamlet.”  

He ended his commentary, and I waited a full 30 seconds, as we just stared at each other. Me thinking that he was about state his reason as to why this warranted my help and him thinking that I was mulling over the information. The gleam in his chestnut eyes were laced with mischief, had I not mentally grown over the summer spent with him I would have immediately agreed with no questions asked. However, based on the information, things weren’t lining up. I knew the boy in front of me like the back of my hands. Living in close proximity had given me insight to every nuance about him.

“What’s the reason you want to get involved Seb?” I crossed my arms over my chest looking down at him. He rearranged his face into a mask of innocence.

“I want to help the dragons?” It came out as a sarcastic question. I was wholly unconvinced but didn’t have time to respond before I felt a looming presence behind me.

Fuck.

“Ms. Aspen, it seems Mr. Sallow has already completed his potion and doesn’t require your assistance. I would recommend you follow suit unless you would care to join Mr. Weasley in detention.” Professor Sharp tutted before walking back to his desk. I scowled at Seb, mentally signaling that the conversation wasn’t over and we would discuss this after class. I walked back to my station and began hastily finishing my brew. 

Dragons?! What could he possibly want with Dragons?

I didn’t have long to wait as twenty minutes later the bells began to toll signaling the end of class and the beginning of what I assumed would be an eventful weekend. We handed in our potions and made our way out of the classroom. We walked in silence for a bit until finding a bench in one of the more hidden spots in the viaduct courtyard. Sebastian faced me, taking both of my hands into his and gave me a half serious pleading face. I couldn’t keep from laughing at the absurdity of it all. It looked like he was about to propose, not request my help.

“Go on Sallow, grovel.”

His demeanor became childlike in his attempt to placate my demand. One of his better qualities was how goofy he could get on occasion. It made my heart warm seeing him be able to act in this way after all the heartache. It was a sure sign of healing.

“Oh please, please Lessie you’re so strong and smart and amazing and I don’t know how I could possibly endure without your magical prowess assisting me!” At the last part he dramatically leaned back in a mock faint. I let out a mirthful laugh.

“I could see myself helping you, however the question still remains as to what exactly you plan on using that help for.”

“How do I put this…” He took a moment to pause and crossed his legs, face returning to a serious visage. “With everything that happened last year, and my uncle….” He gulped his Adam’s apple dancing in his thick throat as one hand absentmindedly began to twirl a lock of his shaggy hair. “My O.W.L.S were less than exceptional. Headmaster Black decided that due to the circumstances I could retake them over Christmas break since I would be staying here anyways….”

I had forgotten about the boy’s massive failure with the O.W.L.S with everything else that had been going on. Sallow was a brilliant wizard and it made sense why they would attribute the failure to the tragedy of his uncle’s passing. What I couldn’t understand was how dragons had anything to do with it… what use would stopping a poaching ring have in terms of studies?

None of this makes any sense!

My mind kicked into over drive trying to remember every potential use and spell for dragon anatomy. There was a lot to be honest, they were fearsome but very valued creatures for a reason. Albeit a tad misunderstood.

Eyes for prophecy…. Teeth for bravery…. scale for protection…... claw for endurance…. Wait, claws… there’s a dual purpose for claws, what was it again?

Like a wall of bricks, the realization snapped into place…. Sebastian didn’t care too much about stopping the poachers. He wanted the dragon…. Or at least a particular piece of the dragon. The poachers would just be collateral damage. I looked at the boy in front of me, unease and worry weighing in his features. He wants to make a potion. He wants to guarantee a solid score on these exams so as not to let down the faculty that had stood by him not knowing the full story of his downfall. Ever since day one, the most affronting quality about Sebastian Sallow was his unrivaled pride. His curse.

Oh Seb, why does everything revolve around pride for you?

He could see the conflicted look on my face and began to grasp for anything that might help him to get me to agree. He knew for a fact that I wasn’t stupid enough to go toe to toe with a beast who had probably been tortured to the brink of insanity, especially one as deadly as this.  

“I just need a few claws! Nothing more, I’m not stupid enough to think that we could fight a dragon!”

“Sebastian, is a potion that lasts for all of a few hours really worth putting not only my life, but your own at risk? Are you still so foolish? Have you learned nothing?” I didn’t mean to sound as annoyed as I was, however, he was doing what he did best, being a complete and utter idiot.

“I know what you’re thinking, but can you really stand by and let these poachers get away with this. We may not mean to kill the dragon, but I know for a fact that they do. Plus, it’s not just one dragon…. Its… well they have hatchlings as well, Lessie.”  

The look he gave me sent chills down my spine. He knew the mention of hatchings would cause me to reconsider. When my parents had died, I had moved in with my Uncle Barnabas, a renowned Dragonologist who had a hobby of rescuing and taking in hatchlings. Making sure that they were big enough and strong enough before releasing them back into the wild. The years spent with him were one of my most cherished memories. Helping rear the small soot bags had allowed me to process the trauma in a healthy manner. Now it was being used against me and it left a chalky feeling in my mouth.

I was lost in thought, trying to figure out a plan to placate the man without it resulting in our deaths, and didn’t even notice the squealing in the bush behind us as a blur of blacks, yellows, pinks, and greens rose to the surface causing Sebastian to fall from the bench with an undignified scream. There in all her leaf covered glory was Poppy Sweeting, Puffskien cradled peacefully in her arms, as she launched into an excited flurry.

I came back from the shadow realm with a look of dread, realizing that I no longer had a say in whether I went or not. If Poppy had overheard our conversation, which I was 99% sure she had, I didn’t stand a chance of talking her down. The girl could be more ruthless than Sallow when magical beasts were involved.

“HATCHLINGS?! Real-life dragon hatchlings? Do you know which breed they are?” Her voice was shrill with excitement.

I groaned, raking my hands through my hair, and gave her a look of discomfort. Sebastian had managed to recover from the shock and was standing as if he had never been bothered, but with a knowing smirk on his face. He knew this was the key to getting the upper hand. I could see the gears turning in his head on how to spin his little web.

“Poppy, why in Merlin’s beard were you lurking like a matagot in the bushes?! How long have you been there?” I asked.

“There are more important things to discuss! SHHH!” She turned away from me staring down at our dark-haired friend. I was in shock. Never had I been told to be silent in such a manner.

“Hatchlings, you said Sebastian?”

Her focus left me and instead took in the Sallow boy, as a Cheshire grin lit her face. The Puffskien she was cradling looked unplussed, used to her exuberant behavior. I let out a frustrated groan. Of course, I couldn’t have a nice relaxing weekend. There was always something going on, someone who needed help, something that needed saving, and here I was incapable of saying no. The two went back and forth exchanging all the information relevant to this new ‘mission’. Sebastian occasionally flicking a glance my way to gauge my reaction. Finally in agreement they both turned towards me. It was like staring down a basilisk knowing full well I wouldn’t stand a chance.

“We have no time to waste, let me put Persephone back in her pen and we will set off at once!”  Poppy’s commanding tone brokered no resistance. My fate was sealed, and I had no say. She turned on her heel and started striding away. Sebastian threw his hands up as if stating he had no part in this. I scowled with obvious displeasure.

“Let’s go rescue a bloody dragon then.”

“That’s the spirit Lessie! I knew you’d come around!” He wrapped an arm around my shoulder as we turned to follow the short brunette out of the courtyard towards the beast pens.

Every damn time! One of these times Sebastian is going to get me killed.

The thought left a chill in my bones. I pushed it down and tried to focus on the task at hand. At least I was familiar with this type of beast. It should be quick work and maybe even a way to get back into Uncle Barnabas’ good graces. There was always a silver lining. 

Between Comfort and Chaos: CH 3

Link to Chapter 2 Above

Also Available on AO3/Wattpad

OminisxMC- Slooooowwww burn, Angst

Word Count: 3,394

Unsettled Feelings

Ominis’ POV

The next week flew by with Lessie dividing her time between myself and her babysitting duties as we had affectionately dubbed her time spent with Sebastian. As a result, it seemed that my poltergeist appeared less often and mostly at a distance. When he did attempt to converse a swift unseen flick of my wand would cause the idiot to stumble and trip. In his haste to stand I could swiftly get away. In a way it was much like the game I would play with my younger sister. She had started her studies at Hogwarts the previous year and as much as I tried to act the part of the doting older brother, she refused the association. In retaliation I took to using the tripping jinx on her at the most opportune times. Never hurting her, but more so just letting her know I was there if need be.

Although Lessie and I had the majority of classes together, we rarely spoke in them, simply preferring the conversations in the passing corridors or nights spent planning adventures in the undercroft. My mood had improved leaps and bounds and I was starting to feel like myself again, the anger bottling itself back up and nestling away into the compartment of my mind where I kept all the other unpleasant things confined. I attributed this mostly to the fact that today after classes were through, we would be headed to Cragcroftshire to finish the last of the Merlin Trials. I was excited to spend the time with her adventuring as well as attend the Halloween feast together the following night. It was the small triumphs that made me smile, or maybe it was her.

The lines of our friendship had started to blur in my mind, and I was unsure of how to proceed. I had always had a fondness for her, but for a reason I couldn’t place it felt different now. More pronounced. More evolved. Everytime she casually brushed my hand or said my name I could feel a swarm of fluttering in my stomach. It was a pleasant sensation, that had my emotions conflicted. What could I possibly hope for? What kind of future could I give someone who put the sun to shame?

She treats everyone like this. You’re no different. Don’t hope for something that can’t be.

I shook the unproductive thoughts from my head, as I slid down to the floor in one of the open atriums. There was no use dwelling on them, we were friends and that was that. She could never be with someone as tainted as I was. It didn’t matter how I felt.

It never does.

The cool stone beneath me helped to settle my nerves. My fingers traced our names absent mindly on the smooth marble. Exhaustion took over, and I realized just how worn out I was from the late nights with her. Usually, I followed a pretty stringent sleep schedule being safely tucked into bed by 10:00pm on the dot, but had been making an exception to meeting up with Lessie in the Undercroft all week. We’d stay there until the early morning hours, just talking about everything and nothing at the same time. A yawn escaped my mouth. Many might laugh but, it was such a long walk back to the common room, but if I stayed right here, I could take a quick nap and then head over to my last class of the day.

Alright, just 10 minutes or so then off we go.

The hall was relatively quiet, with groups of students buzzing around here and there, and I shut my eyes. Behind my eyelids was a swirling darkness mixed with soft pin-pricks of random light. It felt like I was floating much like that day over the lake…My last though before succumbing to the sweet embrace of unconsciousness was the subtle scent of lilacs and ghosting feel of callouses.

                                                            …………………………………………………………………….

The chill of the glacial air was seeping into my bones, and I found myself a bit disoriented to my surroundings. Where was I? I tried to blink away my confusion, but nothing became clear until I heard a familiar voice.

“I won’t cast it on you Sebastian, you’ll have to cast it on me.” The sound of shoes scraping on stone, widening into a spaced stance. They sent echoes about the room, giving it a distinctly haunting atmosphere. Everything felt heavy, as if a boulder had been placed on my chest. My heart began to race, sweat pooling on my brow causing my hands to start shaking.

It was Lessies’ voice but…. But what was she talking about?

“Fine. If that’s what you want…” Sebastian’s lilting voice held no remorse. It took only a split second to realize that I was back in the scriptorium. I had to stop him.

NO! Nooooo! No!

I couldn’t scream out; it was like an iron band had been secured against my throat. Choking out any sounds that would attempt to stop the depravity before me. I began wildly thrashing, trying to reach them but everything was dark and cold, and I couldn’t move from where I stood. This felt all wrong, I was trapped in my body, and I couldn’t reach her. I couldn’t save her.   

“CRUCIO!”

Before the last syllable was uttered my blood went cold, draining. Instantly the hall was filled with the desperate cries of my friend, begging and pleading for release. I could hear her body collapse. The gravel crunched as she writhed on the floor, no longer in control of her body. Her feeble pleas falling on deaf ears, as Sebastian moved, stone scraping under his feet as he moved toward the opening door. He didn’t care that she was in pain. That she was begging for help. The door was open, why couldn’t he end her torture?

The sounds of torment too great to be contained in such a small frame sent electrical waves through the space, causing a release of static. It bit at my skin, causing me to call out once more.The sounds of anguish sending me into a spiral.

“Are you alright?!?”

There was an overwhelming sense of nausea. Her crying pierced my ears cracking every nerve in my body. Tarnishing my very soul. I couldn’t get to her, I couldn’t make it stop. It hurt. It hurt so much.  

Lessie, No. Please, please, make it stop!

                                                            ……………………………………………………………………….

“LESSIE!” Her name clawed its way out of my throat leaving a taste of iron and bile as I jolted awake. The amount of damp cloth clinging to my skin indicated that I was sweating profusely. I ran my hands through my hair, disheveling it in the process trying to block out the lingering screams. My heart rate was erratic, and I started to gulp for air as I heard footsteps approaching. I reached for my wand and sent a pulse out as I struggled to gain my composure and gain some orientation. My lungs were burning, as if I were drowning on land. My mind went into survival mode repeating my mantra for times like these.  

It’s just a nightmare. It’s just a nightmare. It’s just a nightmare.  

“Ominis? Are you okay?” It was a familiar voice, but in my haze, I couldn’t place it. Everything felt wobbly, and surreal.

I heard the scrap of shoes on stone as the girl crouched down next to me concern lacing her voice. I didn’t answer and instead continued to focus on my breathing.  

1….2….3….4…. Exhale….1….2….3….4…. Inhale

“Are you hurt? Have you fallen.” The concern increased and I could sense the undercurrent of panic from the girl. I must look a sight to her. Hyperventilating on the floor, wet and erratic in the midst of a panic attack. The pain was palpable causing radiating stabs throughout my chest, as if someone was stabbing me with pins. My head was swimming, making the panic intensify.

I need to breathe. Breath, please… oh gods…. 1…2...3…4…

The air shifted and she reached her hand out, offering it. Without thinking my hand reached out smacking it away defensively. A shocked gasp escaped from her lips. This didn’t deter her and instead she went from crouching to sitting next to me. There was some shuffling in what sounded like a bag of some sort and the ping of something metallic being pulled out. The girl shifted again, and the sound of a cast.

“Aguamenti”  

The tinkling of water hit the metallic vessel and then stopped just as fast. My heart rate had started to decrease as my breathing slowed. In the midst of my panic, my knees had come up to my chest, and I found myself rocking slightly. A throbbing headache took up residence behind my eyes and I winced in pain. It brought with it a smidgen of clarity. 

You’re safe Ominis. You. Are. Safe. No, one can hurt you. Breathe.

“Here you look like you need this. It’s just water, I promise.” The sound of a metal bowl gracing the floor within arm’s reach of me sent out some vibrations. She was afraid I would smack her away again. My hand reached out, searching the area until I found the vessel and hurriedly brought it to my lips gulping it down eagerly. The taste of iron lingered coating my mouth like a thick film. I took a few more moments to breathe, putting the bowl back down where I had retrieved it.  

“T-Thank you Poppy. I’m sorry to have frightened you.” I gave a small apology hoping the girl wasn’t too upset.

“You didn’t frighten me. I should have approached you slower. You don’t just grab a graphorn by the leg, do you? No, I’d say that your reaction was justified.” She let out an uncertain laugh. “I do apologize however, the only thing I had was Persephone’s water bowl.” There was a matter-of-fact air about her. As expected, she was treating this like a close encounter with one of her beasts. To be fair I felt like a beast. If I hadn’t been in such a state, I would have berated her for giving me an animals’ dish as a cup. Instead, I ignored the statement, not wanting to dwell on trivialities.

“Regardless, I do apologize.” I took another stuttering breath and then turned to her. “A-are there quite a lot of people about?” My anxiety of being seen as the delicate blind boy bubbled to the surface once more. I could hear the rumors swirling around already about my embarrassing display. Behavior unfitting of a Gaunt. I flinched reactively knowing the backlash I would receive once again for tarnishing the family name.

“Students? Oh no everyone’s in class.” There was a nonchalant attitude to the statement as if that should have been common knowledge.

“WHAT?! In class? What time is it?” I groaned audibly, pushing my fingers to the bridge of my nose. How had I managed to make an even bigger mess? Professor Sharp already had an immense dislike of me for my poor crafting abilities. Throw in the fact that I had essentially skipped his class to take a nap. Why had, I decided to take the damn class this year too? I could already hear the lecture.

Poppy laughed beside me. A swift annoyance edged into my voice. This was not a funny situation. It was demoralizing! How dare she laugh at me.

“I don’t think you have the right to be laughing at my situation while it appears that you also skipped your class.” 

She stood up next to me. The sounds of her smoothing the fabric of her skirt drifting down.

“I’ll have you know that I am in my elective period, which consists of beast care. I have free roam of the campus!”

She extended her hand once more, no condescendence in her voice.

“Now, up you go. You can come along with me and I will have Professor Howell write a note that you were helping me round up the puffskiens that got loose. There are at least three more roaming around the first floor.” 

Refusing her hand, I pushed myself off the floor and stood up, the tremors having not left my body. A wave of panic and nausea forced me to let out a distressed grasp. I could hear her shuffle her feet, unsure of how to assist. I felt raw and did not think I could face lying to Professor Howell in this state, let alone chasing beasts. Her offer was tempting and kind. However, I feared that a trip to the nurses was in order.

“I appreciate the kind offer, however I am on my way to the hospital wing.” Without waiting for a response, I shakily re-drew my wand and began to slowly wander away down the corridor.

“I’ll come with you! Just to make sure everything is okay!” There was no use arguing with a Hufflepuff on matters like these. I did not have the energy to argue nor field a million questions that she would inevitably ask. I kept my lips tight as we walked side by side toward the faculty tower. Poppy seemed to be bouncing instead of walking deciding that If I would not speak, then she would fill the space.

“Any big plans for this weekend?” It was a genuine question. My head was still swirling, and it took a great effort to form a coherent reply.

“No.” I could tell she wanted more than that. She continued to prob, but I kept shutting her down. She didn’t seem to mind and launched into a diatribe about her upcoming activities and how exciting it was to be able to have a chance to leave the school grounds. To my ears her senseless droning sounded like a swarm of bees I wanted to extinguish. It only escalated the tumultous throbbing in my skull. Thankfully we were at the stairs leading up to the hospital wing and I hastily gave my goodbyes as I ascended the staircase. Poppy took the hint and scampered off to do whatever she did with her beasts.

Merlin’s Beard, can she prattle on!

My wand guided me to a familiar door and the scent of antiseptic and cotton flooded my senses. It didn’t sound as if any other students were in the room. I tucked my wand into my sleeve and walked down the center. Having been here frequently, I knew that the layout never changed. It was comforting. I could hear the scratching of a quill and Nurse Blimey’s foot tapping rhythmically under her desk.

“Mr. Gaunt, what a pleasant surprise. I was wondering when you’d next visit. How are your nerves my dear?” She put her quill down and strode over to a cabinet, intrinsically knowing the reason for my sudden appearance. The sound of the keys jangling on her chatelaine came to a stop as the sound of a door opened and a glass vial was pulled out. 

“I seem to be having the nightmares again….” I took a deep gulp, my hands shaking “This time in the middle of the day.” I fumbled with the sleeve of my robe, feeling slightly embarrassed to admit that I had inadvertently skipped class. She strode towards me and I felt the press of the glass vial in my hand. It was larger than the usual one she supplied when my nerves were in disarray. I screwed my face up in confusion.

“It’s a double draft. In most cases, where trauma is suppressed you’ll find that more drastic measures are needed in order to make the individual comfortable.” She stated this in motherly tone as her hand gave my shoulder a quick pat. “As for your delinquent behavior, it seems that classes are about to release for the day, there would be no point wandering there now. I can send an owl to your professor informing him that a medical necessity came up. No need to worry further.”

She led me to have a seat on one of the nearby cots. The thin mattress creaking underneath. It was a deep contrast from the stone floor I had been on minutes before, as well as the one in my nightmare. A shiver came over me at the thought. My hand rattled the bottle.

“Your Aunt used to have episodes much like these, you know.” Her voice was filled with nostalgia. The hint of sorrow lingering in its tones. The fact that Noreen Blimey had been a classmate and very close friend of my favorite Aunt was one of the reasons I felt comfortable coming to her with issues such as these. Issues my own family would see as a weakness.

“I never knew her to be similar in this way. Most of my memories of her are full of warmth.” I was quite taken aback to learn this new bit of information. We had had many prior conversations about Noctua Gaunt, but this was the first time I had heard she also suffered from a disorder of the nerves.

“Oh, yes. It wasn’t as frequent as your episodes seem to be but she did have them. All I could do was comfort her until she was over the worst of it. I would give her some of my violet syrup and rock her back to sleep.”

“I am so sorry to hear that.” I wasn’t sure why I was apologizing, but it seemed as if it needed to be said. Kindness deserved reciprocation.

At that she gave a weak laugh but then took on a serious tone once more.

“What I mean to say Ominis is that I may not fully understand the causes of your particular condition, but I have known your family all my life and I can sympathize through having seen the pain she endured. No one will ever be able to completely understand your internal battles. They can’t see what you had to put yourself through to heal from it and grow. They can’t see all the wars you fought within yourself in order to make it here today. You should be proud of how hard you fought to save yourself and how you continue to do so every day. Be proud of the way you survived and the joy you can bring others.”

I could feel the tears welling in my eyes. I don’t know what I had expected Nurse Blimey to say, but it wasn’t this. It had been so long since someone has been able to encourage me in this manner. The only other person who knew all the sordid details of my family life was Sebastian, and he only knew a surface layer.

“You sound almost as if you were her.” I whispered as the first tears fell. They weren’t overwhelming, just a silent release of the anxiety that had built up. I let them fall, unashamed.

“That’s because they are, she said almost the exact same thing to me once. Now it’s my turn to honor her and impart them to you.” She made her way back towards her desk. “Now, enough of this, we can have a social call another day. Drink your potion and then enjoy your weekend. The weather is supposed to be grand!”

The sounds of her quill began again as her chair creaked. I let out a sigh of relief as the tears began to stop and uncorked the bottle, bringing it to my lips, taking a quick sip. The taste of peppermint caressed my tongue, instantly relaxing my shoulders and sweeping away the iron taste that had taken residence in my mouth. I recorked the vial and put it in the front pocket of my trousers. It would be good to have on hand.

“Thank you, ma’am. I do appreciate your kindness.”

The quill stopped and I could feel her eyes on me. There was a smile in her voice.

“Of course, young man. Now run along and if you should have further need, please feel free to find me.”

With that dismissal, the quill resumed its scratching and I walked towards the exit feeling ready to forget about my misadventures in napping and fully enjoy the field trip I was about to go on with Lessie. Everything was going to be fine. I was safe here.

Between Comfort and Chaos: CH 2

Link to CH 1 Above ^^^^^^^

Also available on Wattpad/ AO3

OminisxMC- SLOWWWWWW BURN

Word Count: 3,124

Butterflies

Lessie's POV

The wind whipped my face causing strands of auburn hair to dance out of its braid as I took a sharp turn towards the outer walls leading towards the Black Lake. The air was mostly calm at this altitude but had a slight chill. There was a tightness in my cheeks and nose, and I knew for a fact I would have a nice bout of wind rash. I mentally cursed myself for not switching out of my school robes into my woolen cloak. It was not unbearable due to the man gripping my waist with the ferocity of a Chinese chomping cabbage.  At least he was safe from the wind. His head had finally moved from its position on my neck.

THANK THE GODS.

He had always had an effect on me, and with this close proximity it sent little heat waves through my blood. Luckily my heart rate could be attributed to the feat of maneuvering the air current. I swiveled my head to look back briefly. He was being too quiet, probably still brooding.

“How goes it back there?”

Ominis had a look of contentment on his face. Not quite a smile but I could most certainly change that. His eyes shone causing the shadows to leave his face. He was perfectly beautiful, and I couldn’t understand how his hair was not damaged by the high speed of air movement. Blast him and his stupidly perfect hair. It was unfair.

Hmm…  Let’s see if we can fix that.

“This is lovely, just what I needed,” He called out.

His mirth made me want to pull more emotions out of him. I angled the broom downward descending into a steep drop. The sudden decrease in elevation caused the birds nest attached to my head to smack my face relentlessly, obscuring my vision. I swear one of these days I’m just going to cut the nuisance off, decent society be damned. I quickly brushed it away as we were riding just above the surface of the lake. Slowing down mildly and tilting to the right I called back over my shoulder.

“Stick your right hand downward.” 

He did as instructed without question and I couldn’t help but smile when he gave a hoot, causing me once again to swivel my head in his direction. Good thing Madam Kagawa wasn’t here. I could just hear her chastisements about responsible flying. His eyes lit up as his fingers skimmed the cool surface causing little rivulets to jump and pop as we sped by. His lithe fingers were dancing in and out of the water. It was euphoric how much glee he was expressing. I wondered what the sensation must feel like to him. His other hand was gripping tighter around my waist in an attempt to counterbalance. My heart swelled. If only he could always be this carefree. He began to laugh as we sped up once more, moving the arm back to connect with its pair.

There we go, less grumpy.

“As you can probably tell, we are currently above the lake. We are going to continue on southward towards Lower Hogsfield. Shouldn’t be more than 5 minutes at the most.” My voice seemed to carry on the wind giving it an echo-like quality. There was a slight shift behind me. I felt the warmth back on my neck as Ominis pressed his lips close to my ear, head almost nuzzling into me. My grip tightened on the broom handle.

“Wonderful, I can’t wait to find out how this adventure unfolds.”

A chill overtook me as my heartbeat a bit louder following suit with the one pressed against my back. His voice had been barely a whisper, but it caused a fluttery pang in my chest. The hot breath in my ear and the press of my friend behind me felt almost indecent. I was enjoying this a little too much.

Concentrate on flying you baboon!

We crested over the last crops of trees, my eyes trained on the grown over stone circle about a kilometer ahead. As we began to make our descent, I took a quick peak back at my companion once more. His eyes were closed, head tilted back facing the sun. My heart warmed, knowing that I had helped bring a bit more solace to the sullen man. It was a shame to have to bring him back down to Earth... literally.  

“Hey Ominis!”

“Mmmh?” His head tilted back forward, eyes opening.

“We are just about there. I am going to start bringing us down. Make sure you extend your legs for the drop.” I gave the instructions as he obeyed.

As we touched down and dismounted, I took my wand out once more casting Reducio, and put my now toothpick sized broom in my pocket. Hopefully, this time I won’t misplace it. The number of times I had to buy a new broom in the past year was too high. I could have funded a whole quidditch team with the amount of galleons I spent at Spintwitchs’.

“I was wondering how you were storing that thing.” The blonde stated as he came to stand beside me.

“Comes in quite handy, for a number of items if you don’t have a nab-sack.” I smiled before setting off at a brisk pace toward the stone circle. “Speaking of things that can come in handy, I need your help with something.”

Ominis trailed behind, wand pulsing as he went. “How can I offer my services, Ms. Aspen?”

I went on to explain about the different Merlin trials that had been left behind by one of Slytherin’s more notable members and how you had the privilege of being let in on the secret by none other than the Nora Treadwell. Ominis listened, enraptured by the tale, patiently waiting until the end to ask his queries. 

“So, you are telling me that even with everything going on last year you somehow had time to gallivant all across Scotland to participate in these…... trials?” His eyebrows were raised in astonishment. He seemed genuinely surprised.

I shuffled from foot to foot. It felt like a rebuked, even though I could tell he was in awe.

“Well, yes, and I only have three left to do before I complete them all. Two of which are in this area.”

A wide smirk turned the corners of his mouth up as excitement played up his features. He crossed his arms and took a defiant stance, slowly tapping his foot. “I suppose you would like me to help you solve these last puzzles?”

It was more of a statement than a question and I nodded. “Yes, if you wouldn’t mind. The first one is rather simple. However, the second is a bit more challenging, so if you aren’t up for it I completely understand.” 

“Come now. When have I ever turned down a challenge.” He let out a haughty breath and then waved his hand commandingly. “Lead the way.” 

We approached the circle, and I reached back into my pocket, this time taking the small burlap bag I kept herbs in and pulled the drawstring out of its knot, allowing me access into the pouch. I fished out a handful of pungent leaves, turning back to my companion.

“All right, for this trial we are acting as butterfly catchers. It’s rather simple as I said before. We just need to locate them, which I can do with Revelio however sometimes they are in awkward places.”  

He lifted one of his eyebrows questioning, “Awkward places? Meaning places, you think would be difficult for me to get to?”

I let out an exasperated sigh, “Honestly, Ominis? No, awkward as in once I had to run away from two dunbogs at once while keeping Lumos cast so I didn’t have the find the bloody things again. We aren’t by a river, so I think we’re safe from that aspect. However, I would prefer not to put you in harms way.”

“Ahh, well then. Butterflies….” He tutted with satisfaction.

“Yes, butterflies. When I toss this mallowsweet into the stone circle there are three pillars around it with  bright crystals inside them that glow. We need to locate the butterflies, cast Lumos to act as a beacon for them and then lead them to a pillar. Release your cast and they should go into the pillar. Once all three pillars have their bugs, we complete the trial and a large pagoda-like arch covered in vines appears on top of the stone circle and the mallowsweet leaves transforms into a hallow statue of Merlin. Its quite simple.”

I looked over at him, reading the amusement on his face. His stance had changed from a guarded one to an easy one. Legs shoulder width apart and hands at his sides waiting for further instructions.

“Ah, easy. Just catch a flock of butterflies and lead them home. Brilliant!” The familiar sarcasm was returning. Good.

“Are you ready?” I asked tentatively.

“Yes, let’s begin shall we.”

I brought my closed fist to the center of the circle and released the herbs, watching as the leaves began their lazy journey to the ground. They spiraled down as a tendril of magic began to emanate from the stones. There was a familiar tinge of ancient magic that thrummed in my veins. The ground began to shake slightly, and I looked at the concern on Ominis’ face. I mentally chastised myself for leaving that part out. This was a new sensation for him and one that he wouldn’t likely forget. It was nice to make memories with him like this. I had felt I had neglected him over the summer and was vying to make up the lost time. The vines around the stone pillars began to retract back into the ground. The shaking stopped and surrounding us were the eerie cerulean lights of the crystals snug inside their pillars.

“Revelio!” With my wand straight in the air I cast the spell and was soon greeted with the illumination of three kaleidoscopes relatively close. One on top of a ledge, another further down the path to the right and then one straight ahead in the open field. I turned to my silent companion.

“Are you able to locate them by casting Revelio as well, or should I describe the locations?” It was a genuine question. I genuinely had no idea how his wand worked and at this point felt it would be an unwelcome question. I often played over the idea that it was like a bat’s echolocation.

“Could you describe the locations for me?” He asked, expression unreadable.

I could detect a slight hint of amusement in his voice, and he twirled his wand between his two hands, heels rocking.

“Well, you have three options. The first one is about 10 meters straight in front of you. The terrain is mostly flat and it’s in an open field so you should be able to hear the flutter of their wings well. The second one is to just a stone throw down the path to my right. Slight incline, easy grab.”

“And the third one is…. awkward?” He tilted his head bearing a wicked smile. I rolled my eyes.

“You could say that. The real question is are you fine with potentially ruining your trousers?”

“E-excuse me? Ruin my trousers?” A vibrant blush began to spread across his cheeks reaching up to his ears.

“The third one is directly behind you, about 100 meters up on a ledge. So, unless you’re an Animagus as well as a Parselmouth. I can’t see you directly scaling it, which leads to the option of taking the goat path through a batch of brambles.”

There was a prolonged silence. I started second guessing my approach to this.

“Wait…. Are you also an Animagus?” I questioned.

Ominis let out a laugh, placing his hands on his knees as it took over his body. It was quite infectious and soon I was also laughing. “Don’t be daft! You’ve seen me in potions class, correct? I dear say Sharp would have some questions when I can barely get a wiggenweld to turn out correctly.”

The reality of the question was completely absurd. I wiped a tear from my eye. My sides were beginning to hurt. “I do recall J. Pippins’ suspiciously running out of a number of vials near the end of term. I assume that was your handy work?”

He wiped his eyes and straightened his wand arm out. The tip pulsing, “I may be a Slytherin but, I do not kiss and tell Aspen.” He turned around facing the ledge after giving me one of his snarky smiles. “And as far as my trousers are concerned, how I chose to ruin them is my choice. Now, you go catch your butterflies and I shall catch mine.” With that he set off up the embankment.

Smart-ass. I hope you do ruin your trousers.  

Turning on my heel, I set off to collect the first set of butterflies. Ominis was self-sufficient and for all his miserly behavior I knew he would most likely get done before I had even gotten back with one of my kaleidoscopes. I cast once more and saw the first set ahead. I jumped off the rock I was standing on and broke off at a leisurely pace. This area of lower Hogsfield was breathtaking in the early fall. The grass had died away under the shadow of the mountains causing the once verdant valley to become a smoky straw color. Standing in the open plain you could see clear down to the other side of the valley, smoke rising from the small villages on either side of the great expanse. It was like looking at the underpainting on an artist’s canvas, all sepia and burnt umber tones. Now was not the time to get distracted by scenery, however, we were on a time limit.

I hopped onto a rock right in front of my target and did a quick 360 breathing in the fresh air. Scanning for threats and seeing none I leapt down and landed within the fluttering mass. I felt the small kiss of wings fluttering against my exposed skin as I summoned the light to the tip of my wand. In a quick swoosh they flocked to the light, and I made quick work bringing them back to the pillar. Releasing the spell, in front of it, they converged into the crystalline center.

My eyes travelled up the path Ominis would have taken, scanning for him. He was nearly at the top now and looking wholly intact. The brambles must have set him back in pace. I smiled to myself and turned back to get the second target. The path to the right was quick and within the span of a minute or so I was walking back to the pillar. I release the second cluster of butterflies and turned just in time to see the blonde coming down the side of the path a triumphant smile gracing his features. He exuded an air of confidence as he walked up to the final pilar, not a hair out of place and clothing intact.

“Nox.” The confidence extended to his voice, and he beamed. The aura radiated true satisfaction and I couldn’t help being infected by it as the last of our charges found their home. A rumbling filled the area and within seconds the before mentioned pagoda appeared. Vines wrapped around the arbor creating a very aesthetic shelter. The mallowsweet version of Merlin stood in the middle and I quickly grabbed Ominis by the wrist, pulling him forward to touch the leaves before they disintegrated. He quickly righted his balance and caressed the barely-there visage. As if it had never been the leaves dropped to the ground as quickly as they came.

He turned and looked at me, eyes soft, hand still out, his voice coming out in a laugh.

“To be honest, it just felt like a pile of leaves.”

His hand was still hovering where Merlin once was. I took it in my hand and brought it down, interlacing mine with his and smiled widely.

“We make a great team.” His body shifted but he didn’t pull away.

“I would have to agree.” There was a brief moment of awkwardness and then he carried on, “Now you said that you had two more trails left until you were complete.” He raised his eyebrow inquiring.

“ Yes, the one close to here has a timed jumping mechanism that I can’t seem to get quite right. I would love to get your perspective on it.”

“And the final one?” He asked, running his thumb over the callous on my palm once more. This time the insecurity died down. I had always hated how rough my hands were, but somehow in his hands they felt like less of a burden. The movement stopped and I looked up at his body close to mine.

“Did you hear me?” He asked once more, tilting his head to the side.

“W-what?” I stuttered lost from the sensation of his ministrations.

“What is the final trial?” He repeated with manicured patience as if speaking with a child.

“Oh, yes, that!” I drew in a breath retracting my hand to avoid continued distraction. “Mhm, that one is more of a day trip. I would have to travel all the way to Cragcroftshire. I meant to get it done this summer, but as you know I was babysitting.” I stressed the emphasis on babysitting, earning a chuckle from my companion.

“ Well, when you do plan on going I would be more than happen to accompany you.” The slight blush was back and I couldn’t help but smile at the prospect of spending the whole day with the man in front of me. The sun was starting to wane, and we only had about an hour before the dinner bell would sound.

“I would love for you to come if it isn’t too much of a burden.”

“You are never a burden.” He stated without hesitation.

It was my turn to blush as my brain short-circuited trying to formulate coherent sentences. I managed to choke out the semblance of coherency.

“Perfect! Well, shall we scurry over to the next trial and plot our conquest?”

He nodded and I pulled the toothpick sized broom out of my pocket once more tossing it to the ground as I unholstered my wand to cast the enlargement spell.

“Engorgio!” With a static crack the broom grew back to its original size.

“Shall we?” I asked, extending my hand and within seconds his hand was once again in mine ready for another adventure. 

Between Comfort and Chaos: CH 1

OminisxMC- Slow burn

Word Count: 2,980

Lilacs and Rot

Ominis’ POV:

               The cool crisp smell of autumn had begun to permeate the castle grounds with a slight tinge of rot and sugar mixed together, this always had me alternating between joy and disgust. The sound of the trees shedding their leaves was much like someone mixing dittany in a mortar, soft and pleasant. It was the slow petrification of those leaves once they landed that was the worst of it all. The part I hated most, large piles where the underlayers decomposed with the drippings of run off and rainwater. My overly sensitive nose chose to betray me at the worst possible moment deciding that the rot of vegetation was the preferable scent. It was an acidic sort of odor that would cause a headache if I lingered too long, which luckily was not the plan. Regardless of which smell was more prevalent It was always in moments like these that my body decide to betray me, always. I walked a little faster, wand hand outstretched with the tip gently pulsing as I maneuvered around the various piles of leaves strewn about the breezeway.

All Hallows was a week away and most of school was buzzing with excitement about the upcoming feast. It had been two months since the start of our 6th year and already I was being harassed. Usually, this was one of my favorite times at Hogwarts. Warm cozy fires, excited chatter, and dozens of activities to partake in. This year, however, was soured by the fact that Sebastian Sallow had taken up the mantle to act as my own personal poltergeist. Always appearing and acting as if a rift had never been created and having to be chased off with vague threats. At breakfast, in the corridors, in the common room, and once he even had the gall to follow me into the lavatory, stating that he wasn’t following me he just had to use the facilities. He made Peeves seem docile in comparison. It was exhausting! His attempts at contrition were hallow and I simply refused fall back into the familiar pattern of feeding a mongrel who would continue to bite my hand.

The ripple effects of 5th year still echoed like a wound that refused to heal. As soon as we had stepped foot onto the campus grounds Sebastian had hunted me down demanding to know why he was given another roommate, as if he had not betrayed me, cast an unforgivable curse on our friend, nor killed his uncle in the madness that was his pride. He had lost everything due to his own folly, and yet still acted as if in some way he was also the victim. Never once stopping to ask if anyone else felt the fallout. Never once asking me how I was holding up. I had given way to his narcissistic tendencies for far too long. I had told him in the scriptorium and again here that you always have a choice. He chose the dark arts over our friendship. It was that simple… or at least I comforted myself saying that. He was a man now, and I was no longer willing to hold his hand through his self-sabotaging schemes. I had my own problems to worry about. A change in sleeping quarters might in fact help him make new friends instead of constantly chasing after a connection that was no longer there, and I could finally have some peace. Everything was still so raw, and after the horrid summer I had endured, seeing him again was like pulling the edges of that wound farther apart.

His summer had consisted of sporadic visits from our new 5th year friend, while mine was spent in torment at the Gaunt Manor, waiting on an owl full of apologies or invitations that never came. He was showered in attention and kindness whereas I was thrust into the hell hole I had desperately strove to escape. It should have been me spending leisurely time at the seaside and amongst the fields of Feldcroft, not in the cold dark hall were cries of pain could be heard at all hours of the day, constantly on edge, playing the ghost so as not to become a target. Yes, I was bitter, but I wouldn’t allow him to see that. I would simply let my silence drown him slowly, as his had done to me. It felt like a fitting punishment, if not a bit immature. Being back at Hogwarts finally allowed me to have autonomy again and I would be damned if I would let him drag me back down into his lunacy. Passing through more cold stone arches I found myself walking to a place no one would ever think to look for me…. The outdoor beasts classroom.

The clouds parted and the sun came out to caress my face with its gentle rays as I took up a seat next to the pen of kneazles. There soft mewling was calming, and I found myself turning my face upward and closing my eyes. The sounds of their tiny nails digging into the dirt gave a nice vibration to my ear drums. I took a deep breath and let it out, the tension slowly ebbing from my face as I let my body relax, the sun kissing my eyelids. I could sit here for hours, mind slowing down to just focus on feeling the warmth. As time began to pass my thoughts started to wonder.

 Maybe in my next life I could come back as a snake and just bask on a rock. A smooth, warm rock. Quiet. Calm. Peaceful. What a pleasant idea that would be. No worries about magic of any kind, light or dark, just a simple sleepy life.

As my thoughts and the relaxing embrace of the sun began to lull me into the gentle arms of sleep a breeze started to pick up. The resounding smell of rot and sugar wafted together creating a scent that was somewhat delightful, and just slightly adjacent to the previous one of acidic decay. Hmm, there was another note, something floral and out of place for the time of year. Inhaling deeply, I tried to pinpoint the new additive.

 Lilacs? It’s the middle of October…. where did we have lilacs?

I wasn’t the best at herbology, but I did know for a fact this was a species that only bloomed in the early summer months, barely lasting, and a hard scent to replicate. It was very out of place in the midst of the highlands. My eyes slide open, and I straightened up to the sound of gravel crunching as the new student from last year, my remaining friend Lessie Aspen began to approach, the gait of her steps giving her away.

“I thought I’d find you out here. Hiding from Sallow again?” She let out a chuckle.

The smell became almost overwhelming, and I was developing a heady feeling. The usually delicate scent of the lilac was aggressive, as if she herself had become one of the bushes. The thought of Lessie suddenly becoming a dryad was amusing. I wasn’t entirely sure what she looked like, just the notion of annoyingly unruly hair, but the very idea of her arms sprouting the delicate blooms was amusing. This was a drastic turn from her usual smell, which often consisted of an earthy scent much like the petrichor after a fresh fallen rain, mixed with a delicate echo of amber. If my hearing wasn’t what it was, I don’t think I would have been able to identify her right away. That was a very unsettling thought.

“You smell of lilacs, it’s quite nice. A bit strong but nice.” I let out an exaggerated breath and avoided the question.

“Avoidance, and here I thought we were all adults now,” She gave a reprimanding tut at the unanswered question. “Thank you, though. It’s a new perfume we made this summer.”

“We?” I knew who she meant, but for reasons beyond my control my mouth betrayed me. It had been doing that a lot lately and it was getting insufferable. I would have to work on that. I could hear her swishing her skirt and her hands began to move animatedly.

“Yes, Sebastian and I. Really Ominis, I did send you owls all summer about my travels. It was one of our first activities to you know…. try and sort him out. It was meant to be a gift for Anne, but she’s still refusing to speak with him, so he gave it to me as a thank you for showing him the process. It’s a very interesting process actually… first you have to harvest the fresh petals and then you boi..”

I cut her off as my blood pressure starting to rise. Yes, I had received her owls. They were a spot of sunshine in my otherwise gloomy summer. However anytime the mongrel was mentioned I had found my eyes skimming to the bottom, not wanting to sour the image I had of her. Why did everything have to revolve around Sallow? It was like whatever I did, his grubby little finger prints were on everything spoiling it! Couldn’t I just have one day of peace without his interference? Without thinking my mouth started to move, vitriol spewing forth.

“A very interesting process indeed. One that I am not likely to pursue nor inclined to hear about.” I could hear her sharp intake at the curt remark and knew it must have stung. I could just imagine her face, brows furrowed and eyes wide. I was usually so careful with my words, yet today It seemed every little thing way getting under my skin. The regret came almost at once, and I rubbed my face while standing up to look in her direction.

“I sorry Lessie, that was harsher than I meant it. I’m sure it was an enjoyable pursuit, truly. It seems I have been having a trying day and am not quite myself. Please do forgive my outburst.”

She stepped closer, and true to her people-pleasing nature, accepted my hasty apology. A lingering hint of concern lilted her tone.

“If something is bothering you Ominis, you can talk to me about it. I know Seb has been relentless in trying to make amends with you and if you need more time I can try to get him to let up a bit. From our earlier conversations about your summer, I can understand how his attitude could be making things difficult for you. You deserve to feel safe here.”

I could feel my face soften. She was always so giving, too giving, willing to help everyone but herself. A blessing and a curse. Her best and worst trait as it would seem since she had readily welcomed the turncoat back into the fold. It was like she enjoyed pain. Something, I could not abide. I wasn’t sure if that was what was making this whole situation harder. It had been nearly lethal watching Sebastian destroy himself in the aftermath of the Solomon’s’ death. However, watching Lessie continue time after time to bring him back from the edge at the expense of herself had left a festering wound in my heart. The thought of him hurting her again made my blood boil. She was almost as stupid as him. Almost.

“I can’t forgive him. I don’t know if I ever truly can. This constant pestering isn’t helping the matter either. It is suffocating. I feel as if I can’t breathe. I-I-I still have nightmares about it all. Sometimes it feels like we’re still in the catacombs and all I can hear are your screams. And then this summer… not once did he write…. I waited…. but” My eyes start to water as I forced back the tears, voice catching in my throat. I couldn’t do this here, not now. Not out in the open where anyone could walk by. I could only imagine the rumors it would create.

Without hesitation Lessie came over and wrapped her arms around me, pulling me close. My first hug in almost 6 months, the last one having also been from her before departing for the summer holiday. A shiver runs through me as I realized how truly touch-starved I was, and I could slowly feel my shoulders relaxing. We stand like that for a minute or so while I regained my composure. This was not the time nor place for such a conversation. I could feel her hand patting my back as if I were a child, whispering soothing words over and over again into my ear.

Breathe in. Breathe out. Breathe in. Breathe out.

My hands reach for her shoulders, putting her an arm’s length away. Her perfume not helping with attempts at breathing properly.

“Thank you. I needed that.” It comes out as a shaky whisper, and I find I am at a loss on how to proceed after that embarrassing display. I have never not been in control of my emotions and this whole process seems very foreign.

“I will always be here for you, I promise. Even if I have to fight off a whole horde of goblins with one arm.”    

 Her voice gets slightly lower as mischief laces her words. I can hear the smile on her lips, as the delicate scent of lilacs began to engulf my senses. The warm imprint of her body against mine lingering. I usually loved the smells of these blooms, but they seemed tainted now. A small frown creases my face as she speaks again.

“You know Ominis, I have something that might help clear your mind.”

“Mhm, Is that so?”

“If you’re up for a small adventure that is.”  

There was a whooshing sound, and it took a moment to place as I realized that she was on her broom and mounted hovering a few feet above the ground. Had she had that this whole time? Where was she storing it?! Regardless of what she had planned, it was obvious what my answer would be. I had never turned down a request from her and I didn’t plan on changing that anytime soon. Besides, if she had her broom that meant it was further than walking distance, which in turn meant no chance of stumbling upon my brown-haired poltergeist.

“We do have a couple hours before dinner.” I gave an attempt at a smile as she extended her hand and helped me on the back. A spark of static ignited as our hands touched, causing the both of us to pull back and start laughing. I wanted to make a joke about her ancient magic acting up again, but my brain had exhausted all executive functions. Instead, it went into tactile overdrive. Her calloused hands were not those of an amateur. I had always know she was adept with a broomstick, but her hands gave the impression that more often than not she was in the sky. My fingers lingered in her palm as I settled myself behind her. I gently traced over the callouses, circling the largest by her ring finger. It was hard and rough with a bit of flanking skin. Usually, something like that would repulse me, but on her it just seemed right. What must it be like to fly any time you wanted? I felt a pang of jealousy. She lowered my hands to her waist with a huff, making them connect to create a human belt against her.  

“I know, I know I should take better care of my hands. They make riding gloves. I have heard it all.” This seemed to have struck a chord. An insecurity I didn’t know about.

Hmm, I will have to write that down later.

“Actually, I was admiring them. Flying is a skill not everyone is able to afford. One must practice in order to be proficient, and I can tell you may be closer to mastery on the subject.”

 I couldn’t quite tell but it seemed as if that had soothed the nerve. Her voice became sweet again.

“Make sure to hold on tight.”

               It may have been due to the heightened emotions of having to actively avoid Sebastian or the knowledge that I would soon be floating through the sky, which was a rare occurrence in itself, but a gentle fluttering began in my stomach much like a kaleidoscope of butterflies. The heat radiating off of Lessie’s back coupled with the strong scent of the blasted lilacs was having an intoxicating effect. This was much better than sitting with the kneazles. Without realizing it my grip tightened as my forehead found a resting spot on her neck.

She drew a slow breath as we started to float a bit higher.

“Are you all settled?”

I opened my mouth to respond, sending a huff of hot air onto her neck. She shook ever so slightly, her pulse spiking with an inhale. I wasn’t sure if I had caused her sudden spasm or if it was from the wind, but I nodded in agreement.

 “Yes, lets start this adventure you promised.”

               Within seconds, the earth disappeared beneath my feet and the wind whipped around us, causing the loose braid of Lessie’s thick hair to go every which way. It must have been a sight to behold. The feeling of being safely tucked against her as we propelled through the nothingness was indescribable. Terrifying, yet exhilarating. To be honest, she was possibly the only one I trusted enough to be this vulnerable with, knowing should I lose grip and fall, she would most certainly catch me. The further away from Hogwarts we went, the more my anxiety receded. Whatever this adventure held, it was going to be a good one and I was thankful to at least have one friend willing to stand by my side.

Chapters: 9/? Fandom: Hogwarts Legacy (Video Game), Harry Potter - Fandom Rating: Not Rated Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings, Underage Relationships: Ominis Gaunt & Original Female Character(s), Sebastian Sallow/Original Female Character(s) Characters: Sebastian Sallow, Original Female Character(s), Leander Prewett, Garreth Weasley, Aesop Sharp, Poppy Sweeting Additional Tags: Angst, Fluff and Angst, Mutual Pining, Emotionally Repressed, Touch-Starved, Ominis Gaunt Needs a Hug, POV Ominis Gaunt, Spoilers for Hogwarts Legacy (Video Game), Female Player Character (Hogwarts Legacy), Hogwarts Sixth Year, Hurt Sebastian Sallow, Redemption, Sweet Ominis Gaunt, Childhood Trauma, Hurt/Comfort, Merlin Trials (Hogwarts Legacy), Hurt Ominis Gaunt, Dragons, Miscommunication, Panic Attacks, First Love, First Kiss, Fluff, Eventual Relationships, Eventual Smut Summary:

"The ripple effects of 5th year still echoed like a wound that refused to heal. As soon as we had stepped foot onto the campus grounds Sebastian had hunted me down demanding to know why he was given another roommate, as if he had not betrayed me, cast an unforgivable curse on our friend, nor killed his uncle in the madness that was his pride. He had lost everything due to his own folly, and yet still acted as if in some way he was also the victim. Never once stopping to ask if anyone else felt the fallout. Never once asking me how I was holding up."

In the fallout of previous event, we follow our Trio through the ups and downs of 6th year. Feeling are strained and repressed, will we ever get a redemption arc? Read and find out!

I update weekly on Sunday at 9pm Korean Standard Time (UTC 9+) Also available on Wattpad. This is my first story. Please be kind :)

Between Comfort and Chaos (on Wattpad) https://www.wattpad.com/story/339032480-between-comfort-and-chaos?utm_source=web&utm_medium=tumblr&utm_content=share_myworks&wp_uname=FroggyinAspen&wp_originator=ielSOtNITp1NVCccv7XasL4KCt7twIPCfdbJG3rOWtKjryKsWoYFu1xHDFMjhT2UcbStIqghFFDx8BEdKRyzXKzL3o9%2Fpy0R%2Bd6%2FXDWTdaeLa3g2Y%2FSukJQ2hZ%2FZfkw0 "The ripple effects of 5th year still echoed like a wound that refused to heal. As soon as we had stepped foot onto the campus grounds Sebastian had hunted me down demanding to know why he was given another roommate, as if he had not betrayed me, cast an unforgivable curse on our friend, nor killed his uncle in the madness that was his pride. He had lost everything due to his own folly, and yet still acted as if in some way he was also the victim. Never once stopping to ask if anyone else felt the fallout. Never once asking me how I was holding up." In the fallout of previous event, we follow our Trio through the ups and downs of 6th year. Feeling are strained and repressed, will we ever get a redemption arc? Read and find out! I update weekly on Sunday at 9pm Korean Standard Time (UTC 9+) Also available on A03. This is my first story. Please be kind :)