Percy
After a whole month being stuck at Hogwarts during the Christmas break, Percy found himself back in his room, staring out of the window as the snow fell gently outside. The castle was slowly filling up again as students returned, but his section of the Slytherin dormitory was still quiet. He was flipping through the pages absentmindedly when he heard a knock on his door. It was a sharp, enthusiastic knock, the kind that could only belong to one person.
"Percy!" came a familiar voice from the other side. "Open up!"
He got up, a smile spreading across his face as he opened the door. There was August, her short blue hair still vibrant despite the gloomy weather. She was holding a large basket filled with snacks, her face lit up with excitement.
"August," he said, stepping aside to let her in. "What are you doing here? I thought you'd be busy catching up with your Hufflepuff friends."
August grinned and practically bounced into the room, her energy infectious. "I had to come see you first!" she replied, setting the basket down on his desk. "Besides, I brought you some of your favorites. It's a 'welcome back to the world of the living' kind of thing."
Percy couldn't help but chuckle as he looked through the basket. It was filled with all sorts of treats—chocolate frogs, pumpkin pasties, Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans. Everything he could possibly want after a long break. "Wow, you really went all out," he said, pulling out a package of licorice wands. "Thanks, August."
She nodded enthusiastically, her eyes scanning his room. "So, what did you do during the break?" she asked, plopping down on his bed without hesitation.
Percy shrugged, a hint of humor in his voice. "I mostly just wandered around," he replied. "It was pretty quiet."
August nodded, her playful grin returning. "Well, don't worry, because I'm back, and we're going to have the best term ever," she said with a dramatic flourish. "I've got all sorts of ideas for things we can do. You know, to liven things up a bit." She looked around his room again, "Why is your room so scary?"
Percy raised an eyebrow, taken aback by her comment. "Scary?" he echoed, glancing around his room. To him, it was just a typical Hogwarts dormitory—stone walls, wooden furniture, and a view of the grounds outside. But August seemed to see something different.
"I don't know," he replied, scratching his head. "It's just a room, isn't it?"
August looked around his room again, taking in the dark green tapestries, the old wooden furniture, and the dim lighting."It's like you've been living in a cave or something."
"Yeah, it's part of the whole Slytherin vibe," he replied, shrugging. "They like things dark and brooding. It grows on you after a while."
August raised an eyebrow, her blue hair catching the dim light as she tilted her head. "Grows on you? That's not exactly a glowing recommendation," she said, her tone playful. "Don't you ever think about redecorating? Maybe add a splash of color or, I don't know, some actual light?"
Percy chuckled, shaking his head. "I kind of like it this way. It's quiet, and nobody bothers me."
August rolled her eyes, a grin tugging at her lips. "Yeah, I guess it's the perfect place to plot your evil schemes," she teased.
Percy caught the chocolate frog and gave August a mock frown. "Evil schemes? C'mon, I'm not that bad," he replied, unwrapping the chocolate and popping it into his mouth. "And I'm not plotting anything... today, anyway."
August laughed, shaking her head. "Sure, sure. Just don't go turning into your granddad on us, okay?" she said. It was clear she was joking, but Percy knew that there were still people at Hogwarts who thought he was a ticking time bomb, however, August was the only person who he allowed to joke about it.
"Don't worry, I'd make a terrible Dark Lord," Percy replied with a grin. "Way too much stress and not enough snacks." He took a bite of the chocolate, finding it easier to relax.
August tilted her head, squinting at him with a playful expression. "Wait, did you get taller?" she asked, leaning in to get a better look. "You seem taller. Is this what happens when you spend a whole month locked in a castle? You grow like a beanstalk?"
Percy laughed, shaking his head. "I don't think that's how it works," he replied, amused by her observation. "But maybe you're just standing in a weird spot, or you're slouching more than usual."
August frowned playfully, then straightened her posture, rising to her full height. "Slouching? Me? Never!" she declared dramatically, but then laughed and slouched again, her natural posture more relaxed. "Beanstalk! That's your new nickname! But don't worry, I'll only use it when I need to get your attention. You know, like when you're too lost in your own head to notice anything around you."
Percy chuckled and nodded, "Fine, if that's what makes you happy" he said, his tone warm. He settled into his desk chair, leaning back as he listened to her recount her Christmas break.
"Okay, so get this," August began, her eyes lighting up with excitement. "My dads went all out this year. I mean, they really went for it. We had this huge Christmas tree, like, I swear it touched the ceiling, and the whole house was decorated with tinsel and lights. It was like living inside a Christmas card."
"Sounds like they went big," he replied.
"Totally," August agreed. "We even had a family talent show on Christmas Eve. My dads did this hilarious skit about a wizard who couldn't remember his own spells. You would've loved it. I was the judge, and I gave them both ten points for creativity."
Percy chuckled at the mental image, "What about you?" he asked. "Did you perform anything?"
August shook her head, a playful grin spreading across her lips. "Nah, I prefer to be in the audience. But my cousin did this insane dance routine. I don't know where she learned to move like that, but it was pretty cool. She almost knocked over the tree, though, which would have been a disaster. We also went sledding, like, every day. There's this big hill near our house, and we spent hours out there. My dad had to drag me inside because it was getting so cold, but I didn't care. It was awesome."
"Sounds like you kept busy," Percy managed to comment between August's rant.
August nodded enthusiastically. "Oh, and in new years we saw fireworks. My dads know a guy who puts on a huge show every year. It's like a tradition now. We all went out and watched from the back porch, and it was amazing. You should've seen the colors—it was like a rainbow exploded in the sky. My little brother was jumping up and down the whole time."
Percy listened, feeling a mix of happiness for her and a sense of longing for the kind of family gatherings he used to have. It was nice to hear about someone enjoying the holidays, even if his own experience had been less than ideal.
August continued, "But yeah, that's pretty much it. A lot of family stuff, a lot of food, and a lot of snow. I missed you, though. It wasn't the same without you around. I was telling my dads all about Hogwarts"
Percy smiled, feeling a warmth in his chest at her words. "I'm glad you're back," he replied. "It's been pretty boring here without you"
She nodded, "Yeah I can imagine. Anyways cmon! The welcome back dinner probably started already!" She stood up from his bed and headed towards the door.
Percy followed her confused, "Wait, they do that?"
August glanced back at him, her eyes bright with excitement. "Of course! It's like a mini-Feast to kick off the new term. There'll be loads of food!"
Percy shrugged. It wasn't like he had many other plans. "Okay, okay, let's go," he said, his curiosity piqued by the thought of seeing the Great Hall bustling with students again.
They made their way through the castle, the corridors filled with students reuniting with friends, their chatter filling the air. It felt different from the quiet emptiness Percy had grown accustomed to.
As they entered the Great Hall, August grabbed him by the arm, guiding him toward the Slytherin table. "C'mon, let's grab some food before it's all gone!" she said, her enthusiasm infectious.
Percy let her drag him along, but his gaze wandered across the hall, taking in the familiar faces. That's when he saw Valerie at the Ravenclaw table, laughing with her friends. She looked relaxed, her brown hair tied up in a casual ponytail, and she was wearing a warm smile that lit up the room. It was the first time he'd seen her since before the break, and something in his chest tightened at the sight of her.
He quickly looked away, focusing on the food in front of him. He wasn't sure why it bothered him that Valerie hadn't spoken to him in weeks. They had been friends, or at least he thought they were, but something had changed. Maybe it was the rumors, or maybe it was just the way things were. He wasn't sure, but he knew it left a weird feeling.
August was a flurry of energy, chatting a ton. He appreciated her enthusiasm, but his attention kept drifting back to Valerie. She seemed to be having a great time with her friends, her laughter ringing across the Great Hall. He wondered if she even noticed him, or if she was too caught up in her own world.
August raised an eyebrow, her playful grin returning. "Hey Beanstalk! Stop thinking and start eating! You're missing out on all the good stuff!" she said, gesturing to the table filled with food.
Percy chuckled, trying to push his thoughts aside. "You know damn well I don't like... Hogwarts food," he said, attempting to sound casual.
August gave him a mock-serious look. "C'mon, Percy. You can't survive on attitude alone! You need actual sustenance, or you'll turn into one of those grumpy old professors who only drink tea." She leaned in, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "Plus, if you don't eat, I'll have to eat all this food by myself, and then I'll be the one who gets grumpy."
Percy smirked, appreciating her effort to lighten the mood. "Fine," he replied, reaching for a piece of bread. "But if I start feeling sick, I'm blaming you."
August shrugged, her playful grin never leaving her face. "Deal," she said, grabbing a plate of pastries for herself. "Besides, you can't be the only person in Hogwarts history who doesn't like the food. You're so American"
Percy rolled his eyes, picking at the bread. "Well, I do miss a good cheeseburger," he said, his voice laced with a hint of nostalgia. "But I guess I'll settle for whatever this is," he added, gesturing to the assortment of food on the table.
August laughed, her energy infectious. "You're missing out! House-elves make the best pumpkin pasties in all of Hogwarts," she said, taking a large bite of one. "You've got to at least try it. It's like heaven in pastry form."
Percy took a small bite, and to his surprise, it wasn't half-bad. August chatted more animatedly and he listened, nodding along and adding a comment here and there, but his mind kept drifting back to Valerie. It was hard not to, especially when she was just a few tables away.
After the dinner was over Percy said bye to August and headed up to his room. After the dinner was over, Percy said goodbye to August and headed up to his room. He navigated the crowded corridors, the chatter of returning students filling the air as everyone caught up with friends. The atmosphere was lively, but Percy felt strangely detached from it all.
Once he got to his room he threw himself on his bed and let out a heavy sigh. The silence in his room was different now—it wasn't the same oppressive quiet from the break. It felt more like a pause, a moment to gather his thoughts before diving back into the chaos of Hogwarts life. As he worked through his thoughts, a sharp knock on his door startled him. He sat up, frowning. He got up and opened the door, surprised to find Audrey standing there. She looked a bit nervous, her eyes darting around as if she was checking to make sure no one saw her.
"Audrey?" he said, genuinely surprised. "What are you doing here?"
Audrey stepped inside quickly, closing the door behind her. "I need to talk to you," she said, her voice low and urgent. "It's important."
Percy was taken aback. The last time they spoke, it ended in a heated argument about the rumors and Draco's jealousy. "Okay, talk," he said, crossing his arms and leaning against his desk. "What's so important?"
Audrey took a deep breath, trying to find the right words. "I... I heard something over the break," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "At the Malfoy manor. About the murders."
Percy's eyes narrowed. "What did you hear?" he asked, his tone sharp. He wasn't in the mood for games.
Audrey seemed uncomfortable, shifting her weight from one foot to the other. "Draco's father—Lucius—he was having a meeting with some people. I wasn't supposed to hear anything, but I did." She paused, glancing at Percy, as if gauging his reaction.
"Go on," Percy urged, feeling a mix of curiosity and suspicion.
Audrey hesitated, her fingers twisting together anxiously. "They, um, they mentioned the murders," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "They said... they said they'd heard rumors. About a... a monster, or something."
Percy's expression hardened. "A monster?" he repeated, keeping his voice steady despite the alarm bells ringing in his mind. A monster wouldn't attack wizards; it wouldn't make sense.
Audrey nodded, her gaze darting to the closed door as if someone might be listening. "Yeah, but it was weird," she said, her voice low and hesitant. "I mean, monsters? Actual monsters? That's not supposed to exist, but the way they were talking about it... it was different"
Percy stared at Audrey, his thoughts racing as he processed her words. Monsters didn't attack wizards—it didn't make sense. He knew that monsters could cross the field, but he had only come across two of them. Monsters from his world, the ones that hunted demigods, wouldn't target regular people. So why would Lucius Malfoy be talking about monsters in relation to the murders at Hogwarts?
"A monster?" Percy repeated, keeping his voice low. "Are you sure that's what they said?"
Audrey nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. "Yes, that's what I heard," she said, her tone serious. "It didn't make much sense to me, they said something about it being old," she replied, her voice trembling slightly. "Like, ancient. Lucius mentioned a book that had been taken from the Ministry's restricted archives, something that spoke of ancient creatures. I couldn't hear everything, but he seemed concerned." She hesitated, glancing at Percy. "But, monsters? how could that be?"
Percy's mind raced with questions, his thoughts spinning as he tried to make sense of Audrey's revelation. Monsters were a part of his world, but for wizards like Audrey, monsters were nothing more than bedtime stories, creatures of fantasy and legend. He had to make her believe the idea of a monster being involved in the murders at Hogwarts was absurd.
Percy's mind raced with questions, his thoughts spinning as he tried to make sense of Audrey's revelation. Monsters were a part of his world, but for wizards like Audrey, monsters were nothing more than bedtime stories, creatures of fantasy and legend. He had to make her believe the idea of a monster being involved in the murders at Hogwarts was absurd.
He struggled to find the right words, his mind racing to come up with an explanation that wouldn't reveal too much. "Audrey, you know how people love to gossip," he started, his voice calm and measured. "They hear a rumor, and suddenly it becomes the truth. Maybe Lucius and his associates were just speculating, trying to make sense of something they don't understand."
Audrey's eyes widened, her expression uncertain. "But... what if it's true?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. "What if there really is a monster out there, killing people?"
Percy shook his head, trying to reassure her. "There's no such thing as monsters, Audrey," he said, his tone firm. "It's just a story, nothing more. We live in a world of magic, yes, but that doesn't mean everything fantastical is real."
Audrey seemed unconvinced, her brow furrowed in thought. "But what if there's something we don't know?" she pressed, her voice trembling slightly. "What if there's a reason why they're talking about it? What if... what if there's something out there, something dangerous?"
Percy hesitated, his mind racing as he tried to come up with a response. He couldn't tell Audrey the truth, not without risking everything. "Audrey," he said, keeping his voice steady, "even if Lucius Malfoy mentioned monsters, it doesn't mean they exist. Maybe it's a metaphor, or they're just using the term to describe something else. It could be a code word for a criminal they're hunting or some new threat they don't understand. You know how these things get blown out of proportion."
Audrey bit her lower lip, clearly torn between believing Percy and following her instincts. "I guess you're right," she replied, her voice softening. "But it just seemed so strange, the way they were talking. Like it was real." Audrey hesitated, her gaze flickering between the floor and Percy. "I know we haven't been... well, I know things have been complicated," she replied, her voice softening. "But I couldn't ignore what I heard. I know you're trying to clear your name, and I thought this might help. And, well, despite everything, you're still my friend, right?"
Percy felt a pang of guilt as he looked at Audrey, her eyes searching for his reassurance. It had been a while since they last spoke, and he didn't expect Audrey to come to him, especially after the argument they had at the Yule ball and before the break.
"Yeah, we're still friends," he replied, his voice softer. He took a deep breath, considering his options. He couldn't tell her about the monsters that he knew existed, but he also couldn't ignore the fact that something dangerous was happening at Hogwarts. "I'll look into it, okay? Just... don't worry too much. This whole thing might be a misunderstanding."
Audrey nodded, but her uncertainty was palpable. "Okay," she said, her voice barely audible. "But, Percy... if you find anything, you'll let me know, right? I just don't want anyone else to get hurt."
Percy nodded, though he wasn't sure how much he could share with her without risking everything. "I'll do what I can," he said, his tone reassuring. "But you shouldn't worry too much about it"
"Thanks, Percy," she said, her voice soft. "I know I've been distant, but... I'm glad you're still around." She paused, her gaze lingering on him for a moment before she turned toward the door. "I should go. Draco's probably wondering where I am."
Percy nodded, watching as Audrey left his room, the door closing softly behind her. As soon as he was sure Audrey wasn't in the hallway, he wasted no time heading out to the Chamber of Secrets. The corridor was quiet, the usual hum of Hogwarts subdued, but his steps were purposeful as he made his way through the castle's hidden passageways. The entire conversation with Audrey replayed in his mind, each word a puzzle piece that needed to be connected.
If there really was a monster attacking people at Hogwarts, everyone was in danger. He needed to find out more about the book that Lucius Malfoy mentioned—something about ancient creatures from the Ministry's restricted archives. It was the best lead he had, though it wasn't much. The idea that there might be an ancient monster roaming the school sent a chill down his spine. Monsters were a demigod problem, not a wizard one. If this was true, something was seriously wrong.
Percy reached the entrance to the Chamber of Secrets and took a moment to ensure no one was watching. It was a narrow tunnel behind a loose stone, leading down into the depths of the castle. As he descended into the Chamber, the familiar dampness and echoing sounds greeted him. Percy had spent the break mapping out the area and creating his evidence board. It was a tangle of notes, maps, and diagrams, each one connected by strings and pushpins. He approached his evidence board, scanning the various connections he'd made. He scrutinized the board, his eyes moving between the photos of the victims—Simon Yaxley, Chloe, the fisherman, and Pansy Parkinson. What could possibly connect these people? The locations of the murders seemed random along with the timeline of events. He had notes on the victims and the clues he'd gathered, but there was still so much he didn't know.
He paused, feeling a surge of frustration. This wasn't supposed to happen. He'd come to Hogwarts to escape the chaos of his demigod life, but now it felt like it had followed him here. Monsters shouldn't be targeting wizards; it didn't make sense. Yet, something in the back of his mind made him doubt.
Valerie
Valerie walked through the bustling corridors of Hogwarts the next day, feeling the familiar mix of excitement and dread that always came with the start of a new term. It was a chaotic kind of energy, the kind that could be exhilarating or overwhelming depending on her mood. As she made her way to her first class of the day, her mind drifted to Audrey. They hadn't spoken since before the Christmas break, and it bothered Valerie a lot. Valerie walked into the classroom, her eyes scanning the room for Audrey. She spotted her near the back, but to her surprise she wasn't seated with Malfoy.
She felt a surge of anger rising within her. Audrey had ghosted her, not responding to any of her letters, and she had no idea why. If it was any of her other friends Valerie would have left it alone, but this was Audrey for fuck's sake; the girl was like her sister. Valerie sat down next to her, glaring in Audrey's direction, the annoyance bubbling up inside her. She wasn't someone who got mad easily, but Audrey's silence over the break was unacceptable.
Audrey glanced up, her eyes widening slightly as she noticed Valerie's presence.
"Valerie," Audrey said, her voice cautious. "Hi."
Valerie narrowed her eyes, her jaw clenched tight. "Hi," she replied curtly, her tone icy.
Audrey shifted uncomfortably in her seat, a hint of guilt flickering in her expression. "Um, how was your break?" she asked tentatively, clearly trying to diffuse the tension.
Valerie scoffed, her frustration bubbling to the surface. "Don't play dumb, Audrey," she snapped, her voice sharp. "You know exactly how my break was."
Audrey flinched at Valerie's tone, her gaze dropping to her hands in her lap. "I... I'm sorry, Valerie," she said quietly, her voice barely above a whisper. "I know I should have responded to your letters, but I... I couldn't."
Valerie's anger softened slightly at the genuine remorse in Audrey's voice, but it wasn't enough to quell her frustration. "Couldn't or wouldn't?" she retorted, her tone accusatory.
Audrey looked up, meeting Valerie's gaze with a pained expression. "Both," she admitted, her voice trembling slightly. "I wanted to respond, I really did. But... Draco kept me real busy and every time I tried to write to you he would appear and distract me...it was a whole thing. And now I feel really bad and im so so sorry"
Valerie crossed her arms, her frustration still simmering. "And you couldn't find even a minute to send me a single word?" she replied, her voice filled with irritation. "You know how worried I was? I thought something happened to you!"
Audrey's eyes filled with regret, her shoulders slumping. "I know, I'm really sorry," she said, her voice filled with remorse. "I didn't mean to make you worry. I just... it was a rough break, okay? Draco was being intense, and I felt like I was always being watched. I know it's not an excuse, but it was really hard to do anything without him being there."
She knew Draco Malfoy had a reputation for being possessive, but she didn't realize it had gotten to this point. "Audrey, that's not okay," she said, her voice softening slightly. "If Malfoy''s being like that, you need to talk to someone. You can't let him control you like that."
Audrey nodded, her gaze dropping to the floor. "I know," she said quietly. "But it's complicated, you know? I... I thought I could handle it, but... it was just a lot. And he's even mad at me right now"
Valerie sighed, letting the weight of her anger settle. "Well, you know how I feel about your relationship with Malfoy. I don't think I have to tell you again," she said. It wasn't just the lack of communication over the break—it was the way Audrey seemed to handle herself every time Malfoy was there.
Audrey nodded, her eyes filled with regret. "I know," she said quietly, her voice barely audible. "I just thought it was... you know, a phase. But it's been harder than I thought. I feel like I can't do anything without him getting upset, and I love him so much I can't afford to lose him"
Valerie's anger simmered, but she knew Audrey wasn't someone who easily admitted weakness. "You can't live like this," she replied, her voice softened by concern. "If he gets mad every time you try to do something on your own, that's not love—that's control."
Audrey's gaze fell to her hands, fidgeting with her bracelet. "I know. I just—it's complicated," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I thought things would get better, you know? Like maybe he was just stressed or something. But it's been one thing after another. Now he's all upset because of those rumors about me and Percy, and I... I don't know what to do."
Valerie felt a pang of discomfort at the mention of Percy's name, her shoulders tensing involuntarily. "Well, those rumors were just that—rumors," she replied, "You know how people like to talk."
She had been trying to push him out of her mind, to distance herself from him ever since the rumors started circulating. It wasn't that she didn't like Percy—on the contrary, she found herself drawn to him in a way she couldn't quite explain. It was the uncertainty of it all—the fear of what she might feel if she got too close to him, and the possibility that those feelings might not be reciprocated. Besides, he was Voldemort's grandson, her family would quite literally kill her. Whatever she was feeling she had to put a stop to it.
Audrey gave her a curious look, "Yeah, I know," she said slowly. "But it's not just the rumors. Draco's always been very jealous, and now he's convinced that something's going on. I keep telling him it's not true, but he doesn't listen."
Valerie shrugged, her expression guarded. "Well, that's on him, not you," she replied, trying to sound indifferent. "If he can't trust you, then maybe you need to rethink things. And as for Percy, he's got enough on his plate. He's been through a lot, so maybe it's better to just leave him alone."
Audrey looked at her with a smirk, "Oh is that what you're doing?"
Valerie bristled at the implication, "I'm just focusing on myself" she replied, trying to keep her tone neutral.
Audrey's smirk widened, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Really? Because it seems like you've been avoiding Percy," she said, her voice light yet probing. "I mean, it's pretty obvious. You used to hang out all the time, and now... you don't. So, what gives?"
"I haven't been avoiding him," she insisted, though the slight edge in her voice betrayed her nervousness. "We've both just been busy. Besides, he's been going through a lot with all those rumors and accusations. I figured he needed some space."
Audrey raised an eyebrow. "Right but isn't he our friend? '' she said, her voice gentle. "You don't have to stay away from him just because of the whole murder thing. He could use someone to talk to, you know? Someone who doesn't treat him like he's Voldemort's grandson."
Valerie nodded, "He's not alone. He's always with that Hufflepuff girl, August Garcia"
Audrey tilted her head, "Who?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.
Valerie rolled her eyes, "You know, the girl with the bright blue hair," she explained.
Audrey's smirk widened, "Oh, I know August," she replied, "Didn't she throw a notebook at a professor second year?"
Valerie's lips twitched into a reluctant smile at the memory. "Yeah, that's her," she admitted, her tone fond. "She's... something else, that's for sure. But she's always nice to everyone"
As Audrey continued talking, Valerie couldn't shake the feeling of unease gnawing at her insides. She knew Audrey was right—she had been avoiding Percy, and she couldn't deny the guilt weighing heavily on her conscience. But the thought of facing him, of confronting the tangled mess of emotions swirling within her, was daunting. She needed more time to sort through her feelings, to figure things out. But until then, she would keep her distance.
Percy
Percy was not in the mood for more trouble. After the break, the rumors, and the unsettling discovery about the murders, he just wanted a normal day at Hogwarts. But it seemed like Hogwarts had other plans. He was on his way back from Charms when he saw Audrey standing outside an unused classroom, her expression a mix of confusion and concern. As soon as he saw her he was about to turn around when suddenly,
"Percy!" she called, waving him over. "Come here, I need help with something."
He hesitated, considering just walking away, but he couldn't just ignore her. "What's up?" he asked, approaching her with caution.
Audrey bit her lip, her eyes darting around to make sure no one was listening. "Okay, so you know the Potions project that's due tomorrow?" she said, her voice low. "I, um, need a rare ingredient, and it's in the Restricted Section. I was hoping you could help me get it. I can't do it alone, and Draco's really mad at me right now, and I don't want to ask him for help."
Percy raised an eyebrow. "The Restricted Section?" he repeated, frowning. "Audrey, that's not a place you can just walk into. Why don't you ask Professor Snape for it? He's in charge of the Potions storeroom."
Audrey shook her head, her expression tense. "I can't," she replied, her voice filled with desperation. "Snape's not exactly my biggest fan, and I can't risk getting detention. Pleaseee, Percy, you're the best at Potions. I wouldn't ask if I wasn't desperate, I can't fault this class again"
Percy sighed, feeling a sense of obligation. "Fine," he said, trying to sound casual. "But if we get caught, I'm blaming you."
Audrey's face lit up with relief. "Thank you," she said, her voice filled with gratitude. "I promise I'll make it worth your while. It's just one ingredient. It'll be quick, I swear."
Percy nodded, already regretting his decision. Entering any restriction section at Hogwarts was a bad idea, the last time he entered one he almost got killed by Snape's sectumsempra spell. He gestured for her to follow him, and they made their way toward the library, taking a circuitous route to avoid anyone seeing them.
As they walked, Audrey explained the ingredient they needed—a rare herb that was used in advanced potions. It wasn't something a typical student would need, which made it even more suspicious. But Percy kept his questions to himself, focusing on the task at hand.
When they reached the library, Percy led Audrey through a hidden passageway behind a bookshelf, a route he had discovered earlier in the year. It wasn't widely known, but it provided a discreet way to access the Restricted Section without alerting Madam Pince, the librarian with a penchant for strict discipline.
"Okay, here's the plan," Percy said, keeping his voice low as they entered the hidden passageway. "We go in, grab the herb, and get out. No lingering, no touching anything else. Understood?"
Audrey nodded, her eyes wide with a mix of excitement and nervousness. "Got it," she replied. "Quick in and out. Easy enough, right?"
Percy chuckled, knowing that things were rarely that simple at Hogwarts. They reached the entrance to the Restricted Section, a large wooden door with intricate carvings. He pressed his ear to the door, listening for any sounds of movement. It was quiet, which was a good sign.
"Okay, let's go," he whispered, pushing the door open gently. The Restricted Section was dimly lit, the rows of ancient books casting long shadows. Percy led Audrey through the narrow aisles, his footsteps silent on the stone floor.
They reached the section where the rare potion ingredients were kept, a locked cabinet with a complex magical seal. Percy had prepared for this, knowing that simple spells wouldn't work. He took out his wand and muttered a series of incantations, watching as the seal slowly dissolved, allowing them access to the cabinet.
"Here it is," Audrey said, pointing to a small vial filled with a dark green substance. She reached for it, her fingers trembling slightly from excitement.
Percy placed a hand on her shoulder, stopping her. "Wait," he said, his voice calm but firm. "Let me do it. We don't want to set off any alarms."
He carefully removed the vial, making sure not to disturb any other items in the cabinet. Once he had it in his hand, he gestured for Audrey to follow him. They retraced their steps through the Restricted Section, moving quickly but quietly to avoid detection.
As they exited the library, Audrey let out a sigh of relief. "Thank you, Percy," she said, her voice filled with gratitude. "I couldn't have done this without you."
Percy shrugged, "Just don't make a habit of it," he replied.
Audrey nodded and smiled "But seriously, Percy, you're a lifesaver. I owe you one."
"You definitely do" He nodded as he walked away towards his room. He couldn't shake the feeling that someone had been watching them in the Restricted Section. It was probably just his imagination, or maybe the stress of the whole situation, but it felt unnerving. As he went up the stairs towards his room, he noticed a small, unmarked package on the ground just outside his door. It was wrapped in plain parchment with no name or identifying marks. Percy bent down to pick it up, feeling a sense of curiosity and caution. Who would leave something here, and why?
Once inside his dormitory, Percy locked the door and pulled out the package. He examined it carefully, noting that it was neatly wrapped but with an unusual sense of urgency, as if the sender had rushed to get it to him. He slowly opened it, revealing a folded note and a small vial containing a dark liquid. The vial had no label, and the liquid seemed to swirl with an unnatural energy.
The note was brief and handwritten in a precise script:
"Perseus,
There is more to the murders at Hogwarts than you realize. This vial contains a potion that may help you understand the connection between the victims. Use it wisely, but be cautious—there are those who would do anything to keep the truth hidden.
—A Friend"
Percy felt a chill run down his spine as he read the note. A friend? He carefully placed the vial on his desk, unsure what to make of it. The note suggested that the potion could reveal connections, but how? Would it work like Veritaserum or some kind of truth serum? Or was it a clue to something else entirely?
He picked up the vial and held it up to the light, watching the dark liquid swirl and shift within the glass. It seemed to react to movement, almost as if it were alive. He'd never seen anything like it, and he didn't know whether to be intrigued or alarmed. The possibility of it being a trap crossed his mind, but he couldn't just ignore it. He set the vial down and carefully folded the note, placing it in his pocket. He needed to think this through. He knew he couldn't ask any of his professors about it without risking exposure. If he wanted answers, he'd have to find them himself.
He thought back to the note: "There is more to the murders at Hogwarts than you realize." What could he be missing? He had mapped out the locations of the victims and compiled everything he knew, but he was still missing the key to connect it all. He remembered hearing about potions that could reveal hidden patterns or unlock secrets, but those were often advanced or restricted to high-level magic.
The note mentioned using the vial wisely, which meant that it had to be approached with caution. He couldn't just drink it without knowing its effects. Perhaps it wasn't meant to be ingested but rather used in a different way—applied to an object or activated with a specific spell.
As he paced his room, Percy noticed the flickering candlelight reflecting off the vial, casting strange shadows on the walls. An idea formed in his mind. What if the vial's contents were intended to be used in low-light conditions? Some potions worked by revealing hidden symbols or patterns when exposed to specific lighting. He turned off the main light and focused on the candle's dim glow, watching the liquid in the vial react to the change.
It began to shimmer, the dark color lightening slightly as if it was responding to the absence of bright light. Percy grabbed a piece of parchment and carefully opened the vial, letting a single drop fall onto the paper. It spread slowly, forming a pattern that seemed random at first but began to resemble a complex magical rune. He felt a surge of excitement—the vial was revealing something, a pattern or a symbol.
Percy studied the rune, his mind racing as he tried to decipher its meaning. It was intricate and detailed, with curves and angles that hinted at ancient magic. This wasn't the kind of thing that came up in standard Hogwarts coursework. It was deeper, connected to something far older and more complex.
He made a quick sketch of the rune and carefully sealed the vial, ensuring it wouldn't leak. This was the clue he needed, the piece of the puzzle that could lead him closer to the truth. The murders weren't random—there was a pattern, a connection that he needed to uncover. The adrenaline rushed through him as he considered his next move. He needed to find out what the rune meant and how it connected to the murders. This would require research, but he had to be discreet. If anyone found out he had this information, it could lead to more trouble. The stakes were high, and he couldn't afford to make a mistake.
Later that night, Percy headed to the library, his steps quiet and deliberate. The library was mostly empty at this time, with only a few students studying for exams or catching up on their reading. Madam Pince was at her desk, flipping through a massive tome, but she didn't seem to notice him slip into the farthest corner of the library.
He pulled out a few dusty books, each one focused on ancient runes and symbols. He flipped through them quickly, searching for anything resembling the pattern he'd drawn. Most of the runes were simple, straightforward, and had clear meanings. But there was nothing like the complex design on his sketch.
Percy felt a surge of frustration.He made his way to another section, carefully scanning the titles on the shelves. The books were old, some with frayed edges and cracked spines. He picked out a few that looked promising and sat down at a secluded table, away from prying eyes. The books contained information on ancient magical rituals, forgotten potions, and obscure charms, but the rune remained elusive.
As he read through one of the older books, Percy found a reference to a ritual involving ancient runes. The ritual was used to invoke a powerful force, one that could be used for both creation and destruction. The description was vague, but it mentioned that the ritual required a specific set of runes, arranged in a precise pattern.
As Percy flipped through the dusty pages of the ancient book, the dim light of the library cast shadows over the faded ink and crumbling paper. He scanned each page, looking for anything that resembled the sketch he had made of the rune. The library was eerily quiet, with only the occasional creak of the floorboards or distant whisper from another student.
He was about to close the book and move on to the next when he saw it—a symbol that bore a striking resemblance to the one in his sketch. His heart skipped a beat as he traced the familiar curves and angles with his eyes. It was an intricate pattern, almost hypnotic in its complexity, but he recognized it all too well.
It was the Ancient Greek symbol for danger—more specifically The Chthonic Trinities. Percy felt a cold chill run down his spine. The Chthonic Trinities were not just any monsters; they were ancient, powerful, and feared throughout Greek mythology. They were creatures of immense darkness and chaos. If they had anything to do with the murders at Hogwarts everyone, including him, would be completely fucked. They were said to be the manifestation of primal fear, born from the deepest parts of the underworld. The book mentioned that these symbols were often used as warnings, indicating that a great danger was near. Percy knew that monsters like these should be confined to the demigod world—why would they be involved with wizards at Hogwarts? Was it because he was here? Did Hades send them as a punishment for Hecate?
Lost in thought, he didn't notice the faint creak of his door as it slowly opened. The sound startled him, jolting him from his thoughts. Percy spun around, his heart racing, his hand instinctively reaching for Riptide. To his relief, it was just August, her blue hair peeking through the crack in the door. He quickly shut the book and slid the vial in his pocket.
"Percy!" she exclaimed, her voice full of excitement. "You won't believe what I just heard in the common room! You—" She paused, noticing the alarmed look on his face. "Whoa, you look like you've seen a ghost. What's wrong?"
Percy forced a smile, trying to calm his racing heart. "Nothing," he replied, his voice strained. "Just... deep in thought."
August tilted her head, her playful grin never fading. "Deep in thought? About what? You're not getting all beanstalk on me again, are you?"
Percy chuckled, trying to regain his composure. "Nah, just... you know, school stuff," he said, gesturing vaguely toward the books on his desk. "What were you saying about the common room?"
August raised an eyebrow, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Oh, right! So, apparently, there's a secret party happening in the old Divination tower tonight!" she announced with enthusiasm. "Everyone's talking about it. I heard some Slytherins are setting it up, and it's going to be huge. You should totally come!"
Percy hesitated. A party was the last thing on his mind with all the chaos and uncertainty surrounding him. "Can't do it," he replied, his voice cautious. "I have a lot to do tonight."
August pouted, her playful demeanor turning to mock disappointment. "Oh, come on! You need some fun in your life. You can't just keep hiding out here like you're in some secret hideout."
Percy chuckled drily, "August, sorry no, I really can't I have too much going on."
August sighed. "Come on, Percy, you need to relax! It's just one night. You can't be all work and no play all the time. Besides, If you're seen at a party, it might help people think he you're just a regular student, not some mini Voldemort accused of murder," she added with a wink.
Percy chuckled. August had a point, but he just wasn't in the mood for a party right now.
August walked towards him, her eyes pleading. "Please, Percy, it's not just for you—it's for me too. I need my party buddy! Don't make me go alone with all those people. They're intimidating," she said with a dramatic shiver. "Plus, I promise I'll get you something from the kitchen after. You know, since you hate the great hall food" she sighed, "Plus you've seemed so sad lately... sadder than usual"
Percy sighed, running a hand through his hair as he considered her request. He had a million reasons not to go, not the least of which was the potential danger that seemed to be following him around. But August's pleading look, combined with her offer of food from the kitchen, made it hard to refuse.
"Okay, fine," he said, raising his hands in mock surrender. "But I'm not staying long, and if this party gets out of control, I'm out of there."
August's face lit up with excitement. "Yes! You're the best, Percy," she said, clapping her hands together. "Don't worry, it'll be fun! You won't regret it."
Percy wasn't sure about that, but he couldn't help but smile at her enthusiasm. It was a refreshing change from the usual gloom that seemed to hang over Hogwarts. Besides, maybe a party would help him clear his head and take a break from all the stress.
"Okay, what time?" he asked, leaning back against his desk.
August grinned. "Around 11 p.m. Don't be late!" she replied. "And don't worry, I'll find you when you get there. We can stick together, so you don't have to deal with all the craziness alone."
She gave him a quick nudge and skipped out of the room, her excitement palpable. He put the books away before heading back to his room. He glanced at the vial in his pocket, a reminder that he still had much to unravel. The mysterious friend, the connection between the murders—it all felt like pieces of a puzzle he had to solve.
A few hours later, Percy sat at his desk, watching the clock tick closer to 11 p.m. He wasn't really in the mood for a party, but August had a way of pulling him into things, whether he wanted to or not. He glanced at the vial again, considering if he should take it with him. He didn't want to leave it out of his sight but bringing a vial of mysterious liquid to a party seemed like a recipe for disaster, so he decided to leave it behind and put it in a safe space.
As the time approached, Percy made his way through the castle's winding corridors, keeping to the shadows to avoid drawing attention. The Divination tower was at the far end of Hogwarts, and it was known for its strange architecture and dark decorations. It was the perfect spot for a secret party—away from the main areas of the castle and with plenty of space to hide if things got out of control like they usually did.
When he reached the tower, the music and laughter were already filtering down the stairway. He climbed to the top, the sound growing louder with each step. The door was ajar, and he could see flashes of light and color coming from inside. He hesitated for a moment, feeling the familiar pang of anxiety. Experience taught him that parties were absolutely not his thing. But he was here, and he couldn't back out now.
He took a deep breath and stepped inside, the noise immediately engulfing him. The Divination tower had been transformed into a vibrant party space, with floating lanterns casting colorful lights across the room and enchanted streamers swirling in the air. If there was something the Slytherins knew how to do, it was throwing a party
Percy scanned the room, trying to find August among the crowd of students. It wasn't hard to spot her—she was in the corner of the room, next to the food and drinks table, her blue hair glowing in the lantern light. August spotted Percy and waved him over, her smile wide. "Hey, you made it!" she shouted over the music, "Welcome to the party! Isn't it awesome?"
Percy nodded, though the noise and energy were a bit overwhelming. "Yeah, it's something," he replied, trying to find a place where he wouldn't be in the middle of the chaos. As he settled into a corner with August, she handed him a drink. "Here, try this! It's Butterbeer, but with a twist," she said with a wink. Percy took a cautious sip, relieved to find that it was just regular Butterbeer with a hint of cinnamon.
As Percy and August chatted, Percy couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. He scanned the room, trying to identify the source of his unease. That's when he noticed Valerie across the room, her eyes fixed on him with an intensity that made him shift uncomfortably. He wondered what she was doing at the party, especially considering how she had been avoiding him lately. Their eyes met briefly before Valerie turned away, disappearing into the crowd. Percy felt a pang of disappointment but pushed it aside quickly.
August leaned in, her voice raised over the music. "So, are you having fun yet Beanstalk?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Or are you still thinking about potions and schoolwork?"
Percy chuckled, glancing around the crowded room. The music was loud, and students from all four houses mingled, talking and laughing. It was a good distraction from everything else going on at Hogwarts. "I'm not really a party person," he admitted, taking another sip of the Butterbeer. "But it's not as bad as I thought."
He took a seat on one of the cushions in the corner, watching as the party grew louder and more energetic. August had a way of blending into the chaos, weaving through the crowd and greeting everyone like they were her best friend. Percy admired her ability to make friends so easily, something he struggled with since he came here. She returned to his side, grinning as she handed him a plate of snacks. "Eat up! You look like you haven't had a decent meal in days."
Percy chuckled, taking a bite of a pastry. "Thanks," he replied. August chatted on, pointing out the various students who'd shown up, including a few Ravenclaws and Hufflepuffs Percy didn't recognize. It seemed like everyone was trying to let off steam after the break, and the party was in full swing. As Percy stood there, he caught sight of Audrey across the room, deep in conversation with a group ofGryffindors. Draco was nowhere to be seen, which was a small relief. Audrey's eyes met his, and she gave him a quick nod, which Percy returned.
August nudged him, "Beanstalk! You're not paying attention to me!"
Percy looked at her, not realizing she was even talking. The thing is, August talked so much that he had learned to tune her off. "Yes I was," he nodded.
August tilted her head in a way that let Percy know she knew he was lying, "As I was saying..."
Percy refocused his attention on her, trying to act interested in whatever she was saying. But his eyes kept drifting around the room, noticing how everyone seemed to be having a good time. He tried to find Valerie again, but to no avail, she was nowhere to be seen.
"...and then I told him, 'No way you're putting that toad in my bag!'" August finished her story, laughing as if it was the funniest thing she'd ever heard.
Percy chuckled, even though he hadn't heard half of what she said. "Right, toads in bags. Classic," he said, trying to sound engaged.
August rolled her eyes. "You have no idea what I'm talking about, do you?" she asked, her tone light but teasing.
Percy grinned. "Not a clue," he admitted. "But it sounds interesting."
August shook her head, laughing. "You're hopeless, Beanstalk. Absolutely hopeless." She tilted her head and pointed at right arm, "What's that?"
He looked at where she was pointing and tried to cover it, "A tattoo"
August's eyes widened with interest. "A tattoo? Seriously? I've never seen it before. Let me see!" She tried to grab his arm, but Percy quickly pulled it back. The last thing he needed was August asking questions about his SPQR tattoo.
"It's nothing special," he said, hoping to redirect her attention. He couldn't risk anyone finding out about that.
August pouted but didn't press the issue. "Oh, come on! If you're going to be mysterious, at least give me a hint. Does it involve a snake? A skull? A—"
Percy interrupted her with a laugh. "It's just a personal thing. Maybe I'll show you some other time," he said, hoping she wouldn't keep asking questions.
August rolled her eyes. "Fine, keep your secrets. But you owe me a proper story later. None of this vague mysteriousness," she teased, leaning back against the cushions with a huff of mock indignation. Percy was grateful that she didn't press further. If anyone found out what the SPQR tattoo meant, Hecate would literally kill him.
The music was getting louder, and groups of students were starting to form in the corners, whispering and occasionally glancing toward him. He felt a chill run down his spine. It was like a storm was brewing, and he was at the center of it.
"Percy!" August's voice snapped him back to the present. "You're doing it again. Stop zoning out!" She said as she grabbed him and shook him.
He chuckled, "Sorry," he said, shaking his head. "Just a lot on my mind."
"Well, how about you take a break from all that thinking and enjoy the party?" August suggested, pulling him to his feet. "Come on, let's go dance or something. You look like you need to shake off the dust."
Percy hesitated, but before he could respond, a loud crash echoed through the room. Everyone fell silent as a group of Slytherins barged into the tower, led by none other than Draco Malfoy. His eyes were cold, and his expression was tense as he surveyed the crowd. He stepped further into the room, flanked by several other Slytherins, each of them with matching expressions of disdain. Malfoy walked straight towards the Gryffindor crowd, pushing Harry Potter and grabbing Audrey's arm.
He clenched his fists, his instinct to defend his friend kicking in. But before he could react, August's hand tightened on his arm, holding him back.
"Wait, Percy," August whispered urgently, her eyes wide with caution. "Don't do anything rash."
"Let me go," Percy muttered, trying to pull his arm free from August's grip. "I'm not just going to stand here and watch this"
August tightened her hold, her eyes narrowing with concern. "You're not thinking straight," she said in a low voice. "You go over there and cause a scene, and it'll just make things worse. The last thing you need is to be the center of more rumors."
Percy gritted his teeth, feeling a surge of anger as Malfoy yanked Audrey's arm, pulling her towards the exit. "But he has no right to—"
"I know," August said, her tone firm but calm. "But there's a time and place to confront Malfoy, and this isn't it. Everyone's watching. You go over there and start a fight, and it'll only give people more fuel to use against you."
Percy glanced around, he knew August was right; if he reacted now, it would only escalate things and draw more attention to himself, something he couldn't afford.
"Fine," he said through clenched teeth, still not quite relaxed. The party began to pick up again, and the tension in the room gradually eased as the Slytherins left, taking Audrey with them.
The party gradually picked up again, but Percy couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong. The look that Audrey had when she saw Malfoy was definitely not good. Audrey had her issues, sure. But he still considered her a friend, and even if their friendship was rocky, he still considered himself decent enough to still worry about her. August tried to distract him, cracking jokes and making small talk, but he kept his eyes on the door, half-expecting Audrey to burst back in, half-worried that she wouldn't. The way Malfoy grabbed her arm didn't sit right with him.
"Dude, relax," August said, poking him in the ribs. "It's a party, remember? If you keep glaring at the door, someone's going to think you're waiting for a Dementor or something."
Percy forced a weak smile. "Yeah, sorry" He sighed, "I dont think I'm gonna be much fun tonight, I'm gonna go okay?"
August raised an eyebrow but nodded. "Alright, Beanstalk, but don't go brooding off into the night. You're not Batman." She winked, trying to lighten the mood. "If you need me, you know where to find me, okay? And don't do anything stupid."
Percy nodded, giving her a small wave before slipping out of the tower. The noise of the party faded behind him as he descended the stairs, the cool night air washing over him like a soothing balm. He took a deep breath, trying to clear his mind. The hallways were quiet —too quiet, with only the occasional flickering torch lighting the stone walls. He kept his footsteps light, not wanting to attract the attention of Filch, the caretaker, or Mrs. Norris, his cat. The hallway ahead stretched into darkness as he glanced over his shoulder, half-expecting to see someone following him, but there was no one there.
He glanced at the portraits lining the walls, their eyes following him as he passed. Normally, he found comfort in their silent presence, but tonight, they felt like judgmental spectators, watching his every move.
Percy pushed open a heavy wooden door and stepped out onto a balcony overlooking the grounds. The night air was cool against his skin, carrying the scent of grass and damp earth. He leaned against the stone railing, staring out at the dark expanse of the Forbidden Forest. In the distance, he could see the lights of Hagrid's hut flickering through the trees. He thought about going there and talking to him, but after what happened with Pansy and what he told the ministry, he wasn't sure to trust him.
As Percy stood on the balcony, the cool night air brushing against his face, he scanned the grounds and the outline of the Forbidden Forest. He felt a shiver down his spine—the forest always seemed darker at night, its ancient trees looming. Yet something drew his attention. Movement. Two figures emerged from the trees, one dragging the other. Percy squinted, trying to get a better look. As the figures moved into a shaft of moonlight, he recognized the telltale platinum blonde hair of Draco Malfoy. But it was the person he was dragging that sent a chill through Percy's veins. It was Audrey.
She stumbled and fell to her knees, looking too weak to stand. Malfoy yanked her to her feet, his grip tight on her arm. Audrey seemed barely conscious, her head lolling as Malfoy pulled her deeper into the forest. He didn't think; he just acted. Leaping over the railing, he landed on the grass below and sprinted toward the forest, his heart pounding. He ignored the searing pain in his legs from the impact.
Percy reached the edge of the forest just as Malfoy pushed Audrey to the ground, her body crumpling in a heap. Percy's heart clenched with fear as he rushed forward, his mind racing with thoughts of what Malfoy might do next.
"Malfoy, what do you think you're doing?" Percy's voice rang out, cutting through the silence of the night.
Malfoy jumped and spun around, surprised by Percy's sudden appearance. His pale face went even whiter, and his grip on Audrey loosened as she slumped to the ground.
"What are you doing here, Jackson?" Malfoy snapped, though his voice lacked its usual arrogance. He took a step back, glancing around as if looking for an escape route. But there was none—Percy was between him and the castle, and the forest stretched out behind him.
"What am I doing?" Percy stepped closer, his eyes locked on Malfoy's. "I'm stopping you from whatever twisted thing you were planning to do to Audrey. That's what I'm doing."
Malfoy glanced down at Audrey, who was groaning weakly on the ground. "She was just drunk. I was helping her back to the castle," he said, trying to sound casual. But his voice quivered, and he was sweating, even in the cool night air.
"Drunk? In the middle of the forest?" Percy raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms over his chest. "Try again, Malfoy."
Malfoy took another step back, glancing around as if looking for backup. But no one came. The forest was silent, the trees casting long shadows that seemed to reach for him.
"Listen, Jackson, you don't know what you're talking about. This doesn't concern you," Malfoy said, his bravado fading as he backed away.
Percy took another step forward, his gaze never leaving Malfoy's trembling form. "It concerns me when I see someone dragging a barely conscious girl into the Forbidden Forest in the dead of night," he said, his voice low and cold. "What were you planning to do, Malfoy?"
Malfoy's eyes widened and he stumbled backward, his back hitting a tree trunk. "N-nothing! I swear, I was just—just trying to help," he stammered, his voice shaky.
Percy narrowed his eyes, not buying Malfoy's feeble excuses. "Help? By dragging her out here where no one could see?" he growled, his anger simmering just beneath the surface.
Malfoy swallowed, clearly nervous. His usual air of superiority had vanished, replaced by a look of desperation. He glanced around, his eyes darting between Percy and the dense forest behind him. "It's none of your business," he muttered, but his voice lacked conviction.
"Wrong answer," Percy replied, taking another step forward. He could feel the surge of power in his veins, each second making it harder for him not to lose control.
"Okay, okay," Malfoy said, raising his hands in surrender. "I-I was just—"
"Shut up," Percy snapped, his voice like ice. "You think I'm stupid? You think I don't know what you were up to? I've got news for you, Malfoy—I'm done playing nice."
Percy took another step forward, his fists clenched at his sides. The wind rustled through the trees, and a branch creaked above, but nothing distracted Percy from his target. Malfoy had crossed the line, and he wasn't about to let him get away with it.
"Here's how it's gonna go down," Percy said, his voice calm but filled with menace. "You're going to leave. Now. And you're not going to bother Audrey again. Not tonight, not ever. You do so much as look her way, and you'll have me to deal with. Got it?"
Malfoy nodded quickly, "Yeah, yeah, okay," he said, stepping away from Audrey's limp form. "I-I didn't mean anything by it. I was just..."
Percy didn't let him finish. "I don't care what you meant," he said, his eyes blazing with fury. "Just get out of here. Now, before I get real angry." He didn't need to say it twice. Malfoy turned and stumbled through the trees, almost tripping over roots in his haste to escape. He didn't look back as he disappeared into the shadows, leaving Percy alone with Audrey.
He knelt beside Audrey, who was still groggy and barely conscious. "Hey, Audrey," he said gently, checking her pulse. It was steady but weak. "It's Percy. I'm gonna get you back to the castle, okay?"
She groaned softly, her eyes flickering open for a moment before closing again. Percy carefully lifted her, supporting her as he walked back toward the castle. As he entered he kept to the shadows, avoiding the patrolling staff and students. Thankfully, he was already an expert in dragging Audrey unconscious across the castle. He reached the entrance to the Gryffindor common room and gave the password, which Audrey gave to him after the yule ball, in case it ever happened again she wouldn't have to sleep in Percy's room. The Fat Lady from the entrance swung open, and he stepped inside, keeping Audrey steady. He was pretty sure some students saw him enter, but no one said anything. Percy knew the rumors would spread soon enough.
Thankfully, Audrey's room was on the first floor, so there were no slippering stairs. He quickly went in and sighed in relief when the room was empty. He laid her in one of the beds, hoping it was hers. He wasn't really sure. He covered her with a blanket as she mumbled something incoherent but didn't wake up. He sat beside her, keeping watch to make sure she was okay. After a few minutes he stood up, he knew he couldn't stay here all night—someone would eventually come in, and he couldn't risk being found there.
He left the room as quietly as he could, closing the door behind him without a sound. The common room was still and quiet, with only the faint crackle of the dying fire in the fireplace. Percy moved, his footsteps light against the stone floor. He needed to find a safe place to think, somewhere he wouldn't be interrupted or overheard. He had to be ready for whatever came next.