Sebastian Sallow: Duel of Hearts

Chapter One

As the clock ticks towards 11:00 am, the bustling Platform 9 3/4 is filled with excitement and anticipation as new and current students prepare to embark on their journey to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The air is filled with the buzz of conversation and the nervous energy of first-year students clinging to their parents for comfort and reassurance. The aroma of Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Beans and Chocolate Frogs fills the air, making my mouth water. I take in the colourful banners of each Hogwarts house adorning the platform, each one proudly displaying its distinctive crest.

Amidst the chaos, the familiar sounds of trunks being dragged, and owls hooting can be heard. The Hogwarts Express gleams in the sunlight, its crimson steam puffing out of the engine. As I push my trolley towards the designated area to leave my belongings, I can't help but feel a sense of excitement mixed with anxiety.

With a deep breath, I climb aboard the train. As soon as I found an empty carriage, I sat next to the window taking in the scenery of the platform is buzzing with activity, as families and Hogwarts students bid their farewells to loved ones before we embark. It is a heart-warming sight, but also a reminder of my own loss.

As both my parents passed away, I have been looked after by my parents' close friend, Amelia. I feel grateful for her care and support, but also a sense of loneliness that comes with being an orphan. Losing my parents was tough, but I know they would be proud of me for making it to Hogwarts.

Last year's events still weigh heavily on my mind, remembering the promise I made to Professor Fig and the Keepers of keeping the Repository of Magic a secret. I feel a sense of duty to uphold that promise.

Despite the challenges that had come my way, I was proud of what I had accomplished. The Repository was still safe, and the magic it contained remained protected from those who would seek to misuse it. Sebastian had been my companion in this endeavour, and I was grateful for his support. He was the only other person who knew about the Repository, and I trusted him completely.

I've kept in close contact with my friends Ominis and Sebastian sending my owl over the summer. Especially Sebastian, he needs my support as he grapples with the guilt of killing his uncle and the strained relationship with his twin sister, Anne. Despite my efforts to keep him at bay, I find myself closer to him more and more each day, and I can't help but worry about what the future holds for him.

After the chaotic events at the end of our 5th year, I was pleased to hear that Ominis and Sebastian had reconciled during the summer months. It had taken a great deal of effort and persuasion on my part to convince Ominis to forgive Sebastian, but I had finally succeeded. I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace knowing that Ominis and Sebastian had mended their broken friendship.

During the summer, Sebastian's attention was fully drawn to finding a cure for his sister's curse. He was determined to make amends and gain her forgiveness. In his quest, he became completely consumed, following in his parents' footsteps as he pored over countless books, scrutinizing every page and detail of ancient texts and rare tomes. Sebastian hoped that the answers he sought would be hidden within their pages, bringing him one step closer to finding the cure he so desperately needed.

Despite his single-minded focus, Sebastian never lost touch with me. He would send regular updates on his progress, sharing his latest theories, ideas, spells, and potions that he had discovered. Even though he was miles away, his passion and drive were palpable in every message he sent.

As I read his updates, I could sense the desperation and fear in his words. It was clear that the fate of his sister weighed heavily on him, and he would stop at nothing to find a cure. I couldn't help but admire his unwavering determination and loyalty to his family, and I knew that he would do whatever it takes to protect those he loves.

My feelings for Sebastian were still as strong as the first time we duelled together and continue to grow with every letter he sent. I could feel his intelligence and creativity seeping through every word, and it was impossible not to be drawn in by his passion for magic. Despite the weight on his shoulders, Sebastian always maintained his sense of humour and wit, and his messages were filled with playful banter and clever jokes. It was clear that he was not just a brilliant wizard but also a kind and caring friend.

As the train chugs along, I can feel the weight of responsibility settling on my shoulders. The stakes are higher than ever, and I know that I'll need my friends by my side if we're going to make it through the year in one piece. But with secrets and danger lurking around every corner, I can't help but wonder if we're truly ready for what lies ahead.

I look out the window, watching as the familiar turrets of Hogwarts come into view. The excitement and anticipation I feel is almost overwhelming as I change into my Slytherin robes, eager to start another year at this magical school. As the train comes to a stop, I gather my things and make my way out into the crisp autumn air.

Suddenly, I heard a voice calling out, "First years, this way!". Mr Moon was standing at the entrance of the platform getting ready to lead the first years to the castle. As I start to make my way up the bending path towards Hogwarts following the other current students, I heard someone call for my name.

I turned around and saw them approaching, and my face broke into a wide smile. Poppy, Natty, and Gareth were all there, and I couldn't be happier to see them again. "Hey guys, it's great to see you all again," I said, smiling broadly at my friends. Poppy, Natty, and Gareth had all grown over the summer. I couldn't help but feel a sense of joy and comfort as I hugged each of them in turn, basking in their warmth and laughter.

We chatted about our summer break as we made our way towards the castle, and I felt my excitement grow with every step. Hogwarts was my home away from home, and I had missed it dearly over the past few months. "Can you believe we're back?" I said, grinning from ear to ear.

Gareth was practically bouncing with enthusiasm, "I can't wait to create more of my amazing concoctions," he said, "I had been in trouble with my parents a few times for trying to perfect my Fizzing-Whiz Beer over the summer and hoping to improve this year." Natty, Poppy, and I all chuckled at Gareth's remark.

As we walked, I couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of the Hogwarts grounds. The trees were just starting to turn colours, and the castle loomed in the distance like a magical fortress. Despite the splendour of my surroundings, however, I couldn't shake off a niggling sense of anxiety. I was eager to see Sebastian Sallow, the boy who had stolen my heart last year.