#enough leander slander

[keri-mcberry]

Leander Prewett is such an underappreciated character. He’s TRYING.

Zenobia’s line still gets me though 😭

[awkwardauthorwrites]

Do It Like A Girl

Word Count: 2k

Themes: duelling, Leander slander, pining (in that order)

Summary: Y/N takes part in Lucan’s Last Man Standing tournament 

Warnings: Potential spoilers for HL. All characters 18+ and in seventh year. (ambiguous house, so feel free to pick your own)

(Edit; in typical me fashion, I forgot to add the song that I listened to on repeat while writing this. I hope you enjoy!)

Y/N squeezed through the crowd with Sebastian by her side, his hand gently gripping the back of her school robes so that he wouldn’t lose her. Considering the Crossed Wands was meant to be a secret club, the tournament that Lucan had organised this time had the largest turn out she had ever seen. Dubbed ‘The Last Man Standing’ (a name which grated Y/N just the tiniest bit), anyone could jump in and take part, with the only rule being that the winner stayed on until everyone decided they had had enough. Lucan had approached Y/N and Sebastian as soon as he had the idea, extending them an invitation to come and take part. Sebastian had nodded his head enthusiastically, but Y/N simply shrugged and said she would see how she felt on the day.

They finally made their way to the front of the group (being a seventh year had its perks) and watched through the bars that separated the clock tower from its courtyard. Leander Prewett was currently duelling a fifth year and showing no mercy as he shot a barrage of spells at the boy. The Ravenclaw could barely keep his shield charm up as Leander fired any and every spell he could think of at the younger student in an attempt to break through the hastily cast protego.

“This is brutal,” Sebastian muttered from next to her. Y/N hummed in agreement, a frown forming on her face as she watched Leander scowl and cast a particularly vicious bombarda at the Ravenclaw and finally shattered through his shield. The younger boy went flying, his wand leaving his hand, and Leander grinned and let out a victorious woop as he faced the audience that had gathered. The gate started to break open and Y/N quickly ducked underneath and made her way to the fallen student, a Wiggenweld potion in her hand as she knelt by his side.

“Are you alright?” she asked him gently, watching with a careful eye as he groaned and slowly sat up. His face flushed in embarrassment from the defeat, but he still nodded slowly and took the potion from Y/N. Lucan looked over worriedly, but Y/N gave him a thumbs up and helped the younger student stand up and walk towards the exit.

“Looks like Leander wins again!” Lucan called out. “Who wants to go next and see if they can beat him?” Y/N could see Sebastian grin wickedly and start to roll his sleeves up as he stepped forward.

“An actual challenge, please,” Leander drawled. “Not someone who fights like a girl.” Y/N shot the Gryffindor a scathing glare and was slipping her robe off before she could even process the decision.

“I’ll duel you.” Sebastian stilled in his spot, his hands still trying to roll his right sleeve up. His jaw was clenched in annoyance at Leander’s words, but the look on Y/N’s face was downright seething. He didn’t pity the man. Lucan looked at Sebastian, silently asking if he wanted to claim the spot, but he shook his head and took a step back, sticking his hands into his pockets. Leander sneered at her, twirling his wand in his hand. 

“Fine. Just don’t expect me to say sorry and wipe away your tears when I beat you.”

“I would rather skin myself alive,” Y/N hissed at him. “I’m not a fifth year you can push around, Leander - let’s make this interesting. How about a wandless duel?” She held her smile back as she watched Leander’s smug attitude falter for the briefest of seconds - his wandless magic was subpar at best, despite all their professors hounding them to pick the trait up in their final year. “You can always use your wand if you feel more…comfortable?” she asked innocently. Sebastian watched from the sidelines, a large grin of pride on his face as Y/N toyed with Leander. Y/N began to roll her sleeves up the way she had seen Sebastian do, a small smirk on her face as she waited for Leander to respond. If anything, that seemed to aggravate the Gryffindor even more, and he forcefully stuck his wand in his pocket as he glared at her.

“Let’s get this over with.” Leander held his hand out of him, bracing himself to cast the first spell as the gate slid shut once more. 

“With pleasure.” Y/N’s smile was near feral as she stood there, her hands casually hanging by her side. Leander cast the first spell, a poor excuse of confringo that sputtered out before it could even reach her. Y/N laughed at the shoddy cast and tilted her head to the side slightly, looking very much like a predator who was stalking their prey. “My turn.” Sebastian was too enraptured with her demeanour to focus as she (in startling quick precision) cast levioso, accio and confringo on Leander and blasted him backwards. The man barely had the chance to sit up before she was summoning him forward again and levitated him in front of her. 

“Put me down!” Leander snapped, flailing his legs. Sebastian couldn’t help but laugh, along with the rest of the gathered crowd, as Y/N left him floating for a few more seconds before she cast a descendo that was so powerful Leander winced as his rear hit the ground.

“Anything that you can do, I can do better,” Y/N leaned down to hiss in his face, yanking at his tie so that he would meet her eye. “You wish you could do it like a girl.” Water appeared underneath Leander as Y/N silently cast aguamenti before freezing it over with a glacius charm. She stood up and took a step back before casting depulso without using her words, wand, or even a gesture. Leander went sliding back along the ice and crashed into the wall behind him. “Come on, Leander, do you really want to say you lost to a girl in heels?” she mocked, her shoes clicking against the stone floor as she walked towards him slowly. “I’d love to see you try to fight like a girl - to do anything like a girl.” She summoned him once more, and he flinched slightly as his knees dragged across the floor until he was kneeling in front of Y/N. “Yield.”

“Never!” He tried to stand, but Y/N managed to keep him down with an unknown spell, as she refused to say her incantations aloud.

“Yield.” She repeated, a ball of energy forming in the palm of her hand. Sebastian couldn’t tell which spell she was holding from this distance but he could see the occasional swirl of fire, as well as Leander’s terrified look. 

“I yield! I yield!” He scrambled to get away from her spell and quickly got to his feet and took a couple of steps away from her. Y/N closed the palm of her hand, extinguishing the spell that had been sitting there and tilted her head to the side ever so slightly.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t quite catch that? Did you just lose to a girl?” Her eyes flashed dangerously and she raised an eyebrow at him. “Admit that you wish you could fight like a girl, Prewett. Admit I’m better than you.”

“You’re - ” Leander grimaced as the words caught on his tongue, and Sebastian could have sworn he stopped breathing as he leaned against the bars to watch as Y/N took an intimidating step in his direction. 

“I’m waiting.”

“You’re better than me!” He all but spat the words out, his face twisting in anger. 

“...and?”

“And - ” he growled in frustration before giving her the deadliest glare he could muster (not that it fazed Y/N in the slightest), “and I wish I could fight like a girl.”

“Good boy.” The smile she gave Leander thrilled Sebastian down to his very core, and he was left absolutely breathless as she turned to give him a wink. “I’m pretty sure that makes me the winner, Lucan.”

“Y-yes!” Lucan swallowed heavily and looked out to the crowd. “Our new winner, Y/N Y/L/N! Does anyone want to challenge her?” The crowd was silent as the gate slowly opened and Y/N watched in amusement as a few people took a step away from her. “Sebastian?”

“Oh, absolutely not,” Sebastian kept his gaze trained on Y/N as he spoke to Lucan. “I didn’t particularly like my chances against Y/N to start with, I think witnessing her brutalise Prewett may have just cemented that.” Y/N laughed quietly at his words, the anger that had been directed at Leander leaving her body as she grinned at Sebastian’s answer. “In fact, it doesn’t look like anyone fancies their odds against her. I think we’ve found your winner, Brattleby.” Y/N looked over at Lucan, her eyebrow raised in a silent question. The younger Gryffindor looked out over the crowd again before nodding slowly.

“Well, it looks like we have! Y/N Y/L/N, everyone! The first winner of our Last Man Standing tournament!” Y/N clicked her tongue in annoyance and let out a quiet sigh.

“I think it might be time to reconsider the name of your tournament, Lucan. Lest anyone else gets the same idea as Prewett and thinks that women can’t fight.”

“O-of course!” Lucan’s face flushed and with a wave of his wand the blackboard that held the name of the tournament amended itself to read ‘Last Person Standing’. Y/N nodded in approval and made her way to Lucan to collect her winnings, only partially aware of Sebastian sliding up to her, his arm pressed against her back gently.

“You’re breathtaking.”

“I know,” she smiled coyly up at him. He laughed quietly and placed a hand on her waist, tugging her towards him.

“I’m a little terrified to get on your bad side after witnessing that.”

“As you should be.” Sebastian laughed at this and pressed a kiss to the top of her head, his heart pounding in his chest. “Darling, save it for when we’re in private,” Y/N teased, swatting his chest playfully. He grabbed her hand and placed a kiss on the back, barely paying attention to Lucan as he handed Y/N her winnings. She turned her attention back to Sebastian, her arms slipping over his shoulders as if it were the most natural thing in the world. “Why are you looking at me like that?”

“Like what?” The corner of his mouth lifted slightly, his eyes sparkling with absolute adoration for the girl in his arms.

“Like I’ve hung all the stars in the sky and you’re dying to kiss me.”

“Maybe that’s just how I always look at you and you’ve only just noticed,” Sebastian lowered his voice considerably and slowly leaned in to press his forehead against hers. “I think I fell in love with you during that duel.”

“Oh? That’s nice.” He opened his eyes (when did he close them?) to see Y/N giving him a sly smile. “You should come back with that admission when you know and we’ll see how I respond then.” She tilted her head up slowly and watched in satisfaction as Sebastian’s eyes fluttered closed again in anticipation, as his grip on her waist tightened fractionally. She pressed a kiss to the tip of his nose, a wicked grin falling on her lips as she pulled away and watched as his eyes flew open. “Shall we go to Hogsmeade? First round is on me,” she patted the pocket where she had stored her winnings and started to walk away, only stopping to pick up her discarded robe.

“You’re going to be the death of me,” he said, his voice slightly hoarse as he watched the sway of her hips as she walked away.

“Probably,” she gave him a disarming smile over her shoulder and held her hand out to him. “Are you coming?” Sebastian didn’t even need to think twice before he took her hand in his, lacing their fingers together before playing a kiss on her knuckles. Merlin, the effect she had on him. He would follow her to the ends of the world if she asked.

“Lead the way, darling.”

[beezlub]

a scarf won’t hide much || S.S x MC

a/n: this is entirely unproofread so excuse that. this has been rotting in my brain for the last week or so, and i needed to get it out before continuing my other works lolol. it ended up being a lot longer than i expected but eh i’m not complaining

tags: slightly suggestive themes, sebs can’t apply makeup for sh!t, overall just very fluffy. seb and mc are in their ?? 7th ?? year? something like that idk i didn’t really have a year in mind but it’s def when they’re older than 17. leander slander (i’m sorry)(not really)

wc: 1.9k

likes and reblogs greatly appreciated :)

“seb, what’s on your neck?”

shit was the first thing that came to mind when he heard your voice in his ear. luckily, the great hall was mostly empty at this time, most students not wanting to get up so early in the dead of winter, wanting to savor the remaining bits of heat embedded in their blankets. you two, on the other hand, took this to your advantage. a quiet meal together in the mornings is just what you both needed more often than not with the chaos going around the school and hamlets, you off on your broom when you didn’t have classes, and sebastian in the undercroft or library, adding books to the every-growing list he thought you’d like.

“it’s, it’s nothing, love. how’s your eggs? they’re delicious today, oh and the sausage. if you won’t eat yours, i will, along with your pumpkin juice too,” sebastian could feel his cheeks burning, prying his gaze away from your curious one. he knew his sticks were limited; you could read him like an open book, and according to a tangent you’d gone on a few months back, rambling on about something insignificant was a key sign the teen was attempting to lie about.

“you’re a terrible liar, and a worse boyfriend for trying to lie to me,” you mused, a smirk coming to your face as you twisted around to get a better view of the awfully orange section of skin on his neck. as if he felt your eyes on his neck, sebastian brought his unoccupied hand up, covering his neck in a feeble attempt to hide the blotchiness. letting out a groan, you gripped his forearm, ignoring the heat coming to your cheeks as you felt the muscle underneath his robes flex from your touch as you tried to pry away his hand. “seb! let me see! please,” you pleaded with the brunette, continuing to tug what seemed like your whole body weight down on his arm, but to your dismay, he didn’t even budge a centimetre. “if it’s a bruise from quidditch, there’s nothing to be ashamed of, love. it happens!”

letting out a groan of his own, sebastian shook his head, his fingers clamped down on his scarf and around his neck, his other hand idly pushing around the breakfast on his plate as he tried to ignore your assault of questions and comforts. how could he even begin to tell you that the awfully covered bruises on his neck were from you. his hardworking, intelligent, sweet girlfriend. he couldn’t break it to you; if he knew you as well as he hoped he did after half a year of dating, you’d be mortified at your actions from last night. a hot and heavy make out session in the room of requirement led to more than tousled hair, unbuttoned, and untucked shirts. it had led to your lips on his neck, legs wrapped around his waist as he was just putty in your hands after not seeing him properly for almost a week. ‘sickeningly sweet lovebirds' is what ominis had called you two with a fake gag when you had first started going out, and the name only became more true as the weeks flew by. now, it seemed as if you couldn’t go more than a few hours without reappearing by the other’s side, glued at the hip. amit had said you guys were star crossed lovers long before an official confession was even made from you (who was tired of sebastian’s flirtatious banter and his lack of balls to ask you out properly. you threatened him that you’d go out with prewett if he didn’t cough up an answer soon enough), and there you were last night, too caught up in each other to realise the fog that had consumed both your brains.

“MC, it’s. it’s not from quidditch,”

“then what is it from? ominis finally rocked your world with his duelling skills?” you snickered as sebastian glared at you, only for it to soften as he saw the joy in your eyes.

“something like that, i suppose.”

“wait- it wasn’t from anne was it? was she sick of your awful jokes finally and decided to take revenge?” you faked a surprised gasp, erupting into a fit of giggles as sebastian elbowed you gently in the side.

“my joke are not awful, i’ll have you know. got professor sharp to laugh at one the other day!”

“yes, dear, i know. we’ve been in the same potions class for how long now?”

“when will you stop piercing this beating heart, oh love,” sebastian let out a theatrical gasp, his hand moving from his neck unconsciously as he clutched the fabric over his heart, his head falling back to match his dramatical action. taking the opportunity, you yanked down his scarf, a nasty shade line of purple and blue hues ran down the column of his neck, and you suppressed a gasp as you tenderly ran a finger down his neck.

“sebastian! who did this to you? oh, merlin, i’m going to have their chin at the end of my wand for hurting you like this!” the anger was evident in your voice, and as much as sebastian liked seeing this rare, possessive side of you, he couldn’t hold the truth back from you any longer. you were right, he was an awful liar, and even worse at keeping things to himself.

“MC, calm down, please,” he whispered, grasping your wrist gently as he looked around the hall, making sure nobody’s prying eyes were on the two of you before yanking you off the bench and dragging you to the floo flames. before you could spew more nasty things about yourself unknowingly, he had you both inside the room of requirement. turning to face you, he could practically see the steam coming out of your ears, and he bit down a smile at the pout you had on your face. “do you really want to know?” he asked you, watching you frantically bob your head up and down.

“what kind of question is that! yes, sebastian sallow, i would in fact, love to know who did this to you! fighting with wands is one thing, but getting into a physical altercation with another student is another thing! i should go to professor weasley about this, or merlin, even professor black! they should have a week’s worth of detention, or even expelled!” sebastian could only watch with an amused look on his face as you paced right in front of him, throwing your hands up in the air every once in a while while your boots clacked on the stone of the floor. once you seemed to get most of your anger out in a verbal way, he let out a laugh. “what’s so funny, sallow? being beaten up sure isn’t, and from the looks of it, you didn’t even put up a fight! your knuckles are perfectly healed, and you don’t have any breaks on your face like you’d had when i first came.”

“you’re right, love. i didn’t put up a fight. i actually enjoyed this assault,” he watched as your jaw dropped, a smirk playing on his lips. oh, it was truly amusing to see you being so naive and forgetful.

“sebastian sallow! have you finally lost what little brain cells you have left?” you stood on your tip-toes and rattled your knuckles against his forehead, internally relieved that his brain wasn’t missing.

“you see that couch over there?” he pointed at the leather couch you had, pushed against the wall, giving a good view of the christmas tree you’d set up in the middle of the room. nodding to his question, he continued. “that’s where i was assaulted, per se.”

“but- how? only you and professor weasley know about this place. and deek, but i doubt he’d do anything to you.” sebastian was having way too much fun with this, the look of confusion and worry etched onto your features only fueled the fire in him.

“it was this awfully pretty witch who did it. she had let her hair out of her bun, and i was completely thrown off by her, having never seen it down. and her hands were all over me too, never once leaving my body. sat on my lap and everything.”

“sebastian! not only did you get assaulted, you, you cheated on me?” maybe he pushed it too far now, realising the pain in your voice and the tears pooling in your waterline. sighing, he ran a hand through his hair before looking back at you.

“MC, you are dim. it was you, love. you are the witch who assaulted me, and supposedly should get a week’s worth of detention or even expulsion.” it took a few moments for the gears to turn in your brain before it all clicked, and sebastian had a front row seat to this show. your face turned scarlet in a few mere seconds, and you’d let out a series of incomprehensible words before covering your red face with your hands. a few apologies were strewn out too, though barely audible beneath your hands and you tried to hide yourself away from the man. laughing, sebastian grasped your wrists, prying them away from your face only to be met with your teary eyes and a furious blush.

“i’m- i’m so sorry sebastian! i didn’t mean to! i-i swear!” you hiccuped a few times, and it only made sebastian laugh more as he pulled you into his chest.

“oh, my sweet witch. whatever am i going to do with you?” he asked to nobody, wrapping an arm around your waist and the other around your shoulders.

“you-you aren’t mad?” you looked up at him, and his heart melted at your sorrowed expression.

“love, i am the furthest thing from mad. i quite enjoyed myself last night, and you seemed to as well, if those little breathy moans were anything to go by,” he shot a wink down at you, and you pushed his chest away from you, pouting once again.

“you aren’t funny, sallow.”

“i meant it dear. although, it would be nice for me to pay back the favor,” his voice lingered in the air as he withdrew his arms, instead interlocking your fingers together as he tugged you towards the couch.

“seb?..” you were confused, intrigued but confused as he plopped back on the couch, pulling you into his lap as you let out a yelp from the surprise.

“my little witch deserves some affection too, don’t you think?” his breath was hot on your neck, and any thoughts lingering in your brain vanishes as you felt his lips on your neck, peppering the skin in light kisses before they grew more hot.

“i-i hurt you, seb,” you breathed out, hand on his chest as he resumed his arms around your waist, bringing you closer to his chest, his lips not leaving your neck for a moment.

“quite the contrary, dear. if anything, i should be thanking you. finally got some fifth year off my ass because of your..handiwork, and i think i should return the favor, seeing how prewett has been eyeing you again recently,” you could feel the smirk on his lips as he spoke against you skin, and instead of arguing, you just nodded along. “good,” was all he said before a harsh nip came at your throat, finally understanding what he meant by him wanting to return the favor. “after i’m done with you, i’m afraid a scarf won’t hide much, MC.”

[sloanesallow]

The Call of the Void | Chapter 4

Shy girl meets distracted boy. Chaos ensues. This is my "canon" retelling of Siobhan Sloane and Sebastian Sallow's story. (full synopsis here. Chapter Summary: Sebastian finally notices the new fifth-year. This chapter features art by @puridewart 💛 3.5k words Chapter warnings: Mild Leander-Slander, but that's mostly because this is a Sebastian POV chapter. [Ao3] | [Wattpad] [PREVIOUS] | [NEXT]

IV: D u e l

Sebastian wakes up on Tuesday in a bad mood.

Only a week into the new school year and he’s already regretting the choice to overload his class schedule with extracurriculars, bringing the total to fourteen. Combined with his late-night research in the restricted section on possible cures for Anne, Sebastian is lucky if he sleeps for more than a few hours if he sleeps at all.

The previous evening was supposed to be spent in the library, but instead, he stays up writing forty inches on ancient runes, cursing under his breath at the absurdity of a professor assigning such a task the first week of school. He falls asleep before he can finish, slumped over his dormitory desk, quill in hand. When Ominis wakes him up the following morning, Sebastian’s neck is stiff, fingers stained with ink, and stomach rumbling. The clock in their shared room shows breakfast isn’t possible, not if he wants to be late for Defense Against the Dark Arts.

“Why didn’t you wake me sooner?” he grumbles, shedding the clothes he fell asleep in for a clean set as he weighs the pros and cons of skipping class in favor of leftover toast.

“I did,” Ominis counters, flicking his wand to remove the wrinkles from Sebastian’s uniform. “You told me to quote, eat runes and die.” He turns to leave. “At least, that is what I think you said—your sleep-deprived Gaelic needs some work.”

Sebastian rolls his eyes, securing the knot of his Slytherin-green tie as he follows after Ominis, the two walking in amiable silence from the dungeons to the western tower. His eyes are still heavy as he thinks about the day ahead, thankful there are only two classes to suffer through, with the rest of the afternoon and evening to do as he pleases. While sleep is preferable—and desperately needed—he still has several other assignments to work on, readings to complete, and projects to get a head-start on. Not to mention wanting to follow up on a promising lead for Anne, discovered while researching abnormal curses. There simply isn’t enough time in the day. 

He sighs, I’ll sleep when I’m dead.

“Merlin’s sagging arse, Sallow. You look terrible.”

Sebastian clenches his jaw in annoyance as Leander greets him outside the D.A.D.A. classroom. “Prewett.”

The Gryffindor certainly became bolder over the summer, likely due to the growth spurt that finally brought him to the same height as the other fifth-year boys. Sebastian doesn’t want to think Leander’s newfound confidence has anything to do with Miss Morrison—how the gangly redhead managed to woo her is anyone’s guess.

The statues framing the doorway blink as the two exchange similar scowls, only moving when Ominis sighs in the threatening way only he can achieve. Leander doesn’t let up, however, taking advantage of the fact Professor Hecat hasn’t arrived yet.

“Rough night?” he prods. “We missed you at Crossed Wands. Does that mean you’re too busy to defend your title?”

“Like hell!” Sebastian exclaims, catching the way Leander’s eyes widen in alarm, but it’s too late for Prewett to back down now. The reminder of what else he’s missing out on only adds to his stress. Sebastian rolls up his sleeves and brandishes his wand. “No time like the present.”

“Sebastian,” Ominis warns. “No.”

Sebastian laughs, “yes.”

Leander falters, stumbling as he barely deflects Sebastian’s first cast. “No fair, Sallow!” he complains, the two moving into taunting stances on opposite sides of the classroom. “I wasn’t ready!”

“You should know by now that I don’t play fair,” Sebastian counters with a sarcastic chuckle. “Stupify!”

The impromptu duel excites the rest of the class as they arrive, quickly gathering to watch as he and Leander exchange a flurry of spells. It’s frustrating how good Prewett is—he wouldn’t be a member of Crossed Wands otherwise—but Sebastian knows he is better—the best.

“Is that all you’ve got?” he taunts after blocking the redhead’s attempt to disarm. “Bombarda!”

Leander’s last-second shield charm doesn’t save him from the aftershock of the small explosion, propelling him backward into a large stack of books. His fellow Gryffindor, Cressida Blume, runs to help while the others cheer for Sebastian’s victory. He cockily grins until Professor Hecat appears in the doorway of her office that oversees the classroom. She sighs, shaking her head in disapproval before slowly descending the stairs.

“Perhaps I should be grateful you avoided the Hebridean this time.” Her ire shifts to Leander, who fails at shrugging off Cressida’s fussing. “I see a review in deflection is needed. Let’s begin with the known variations of Protego.”

There are a few mumbles and groans as the professor gestures for the class to cease their gawking. Sebastian slinks back to his assigned seat, noticing briefly that his deskmate is already there, focused and quiet as ever. Sloane—the new fifth-year. He waits to see if she will say anything as he settles onto the bench, but like every day since her arrival, she remains silent.

Odd.

It isn’t like he’s said anything to her either—he hasn’t had a reason to and isn’t one for forcing conversation, especially on an unwilling participant. What little he knows of the new girl is based on unreliable hearsay and his scant observations of her behavior in the last week. At least she seems a little less terrified than before, undoubtedly due to being rescued by Poppy Sweeting. He’d seen her small triumph at Summoner’s Court, but the use of Accio is hardly impressive. The conclusion Sebastian arrives at is that Sloane is not worth his time.

Under different circumstances, he might find it in himself to be cordial, or even friendly, but those carefree days are in the past. Of course, there is a small flicker of curiosity that anything new brings, but he quickly extinguishes the thought, steeling his mind. There is no time—Anne is his focus, and everything else is a temporary distraction.

He switches his attention back to Professor Hecat, even if today’s lesson is redundant, information he taught himself long before it was required. Instead of taking notes, or at least pretending to read along in the textbook, he fiddles with his wand, twirling it between the fingers on his left hand. He starts to imagine all the other things he could be doing right now, like finishing his Ancient Runes assignment or charming a Prefect to look the other way as he digs through Professor Sharp’s supply room, or—his stomach growls—eating breakfast.

Out of the corner of his eye, he notices Sloane glancing at him, her face contorted in concern. She parts her lips to speak, closes her mouth, and then repeats the action a few times, looking very much like a fish. He might have thought her mute if he hadn’t seen her talking with Poppy in class the day before. Her insufferable shyness reminds him of the first-years who are too nervous to ask him for the common-room password when they’ve forgotten. Mildly perturbed, Sebastian raises an eyebrow, turning his head to look at her directly.

“Can I help you?”

Sloane snaps her gaze back to her notes, scribbling her quill against the parchment, and he leans over slightly to see nonsensical squiggles rather than actual words. Realizing his sudden proximity, she flinches and he immediately pulls away, more perplexed by her demeanor than ever. What he should do is continue to ignore the strange newcomer, but between Hecat’s droning and the girl’s flustered state, he finds the latter more compelling. He continues to look at her, studying her profile and smirking when a flush of pink tints her cheeks.

Cute.

And she is cute, objectively speaking. Sebastian hasn’t given his preferences much thought before, but he isn’t blind. The sunlight spilling in from the windows illuminates Sloane’s ashen-blonde hair—she’s finally cut off the damaged ends, leaving behind a short and wavy crop. The yellow of her jacket makes her look golden, envying Ominis with how tidy her uniform is. She’s pale in a way that accentuates her blush and the dusting of freckles across her cheeks. There’s a faint scar on the bridge of her nose, and he wonders if the cause is magical or mundane.

Her eyes, however, aren’t as doe-like and innocent as he expects; rather, they are a stormy shade of grey with an unsettling depth. A well of sadness, one Sebastian has seen before in his own reflection. Sloane is a kindred spirit, or at least that’s what intuition tells him. His curiosity burns anew. 

He should say something.

Maybe.

Professor Hecat speaks first, preventing further rumination. “Since you were all so keen on using this space as a dueling hall, we will now practice these defenses with each other.”

Her announcement excites the class all over again, everyone moving to stand on either side of the room as Hecat moves their desks aside and raises the long dueling table. Cressida and Sirius Black are the first to demonstrate what they’ve learned, and it takes all but a few exchanges for Miss Blume to knock the Headmaster’s son onto his back. He sneers, flicking dust off his tailored jacket as Cressida flourishes under the attention and praise from her classmates.

Sebastian watches the matches intently, making a mental note to mention the outcomes to Lucan Brattleby at the next Crossed Wands meeting. Everett Clopton and Isaac Cooper are next, showcasing how they ought to stick to flying rather than spellcraft. They are shooed from the table when it becomes apparent they’d rather showboat than have a proper duel. Ominis and Adelaide Oakes follow, and their drastically different dueling styles cause Professor Hecat to declare a draw after five minutes. Thereafter, Aurthur Plummy loses to Grace, and Leander suffers his second public humiliation of the day when Imelda sends him toppling from the table and into the same pile of books as before.

While Cressida and Hecat check to see if Prewett is conscious, Sebastian sees Sloane in his peripheral, fidgeting with her wand. It dawns on him that they are the last pair to participate. She holds the same worried expression that she always does, her eyes wide with panic as they flick back and forth between him and the purple-draped table.

“Have you ever dueled before?” he asks.

Sloane hesitates before shaking her head.

“Well then,” Sebastian smirks as Hecat instructs them to take their places. Maybe the new girl will surprise him. “Time for a proper Hogwarts welcome.”

It isn’t until Sebastian turns around in his spot to face his opponent that his bravado fades at the sight of Sloane, her demeanor reminiscent of her arrival to the opening feast. Nervousness is one thing, but Merlin, she looks miserable and afraid, her petite stature doing nothing to help the situation. 

Pride won’t allow him to go easy on her—she has to learn somehow, right? Still, he hesitates, even as Professor Hecat allows them to begin. Sloane glances down at her hands before gripping her wand a little tighter, raising her arm defensively. Knowing she is unlikely to cast first, Sebastian flicks his wrist, almost thankful when she blocks the blast of magic at the last possible moment.

She stumbles backward, rebounding when she more easily deflects his second attack. Sebastian relaxes, wondering if the new fifth-year really is the prodigy rumors claim her to be and is hiding her talents behind a meek facade.

He tests this theory, casting with more conviction. “Stupify!”

Her shield charm appears without an incantation, and he’s stunned long enough that her basic cast slips past his Protego. Sebastian staggers, widening his stance to avoid falling over. He’s been hit by all sorts of spells in his lifetime, but whatever power Sloane possesses feels different—unnerving and pleasant at the same time.

The strange sensation doesn’t stop him from returning fire, the class collectively gasping as she fails to protect herself in time. Sloane takes the full brunt of his magic, yelping as she’s sent flying off the end of the table. Even though he’s just won the dual, victory feels hollow. Sebastian may have the reputation as Hogwarts’ best duelist, but he won’t be known as a bully.   

Before he realizes what he’s doing, Sebastian rushes down the length of the table, hopping off the edge in time to see Sloane slowly pushing herself off the ground, clearly dazed by the outcome. She rubs the back of her head, wincing in pain. Guilt churns his stomach and he reaches out, offering his hand.

“Here,” he murmurs, hoping he looks as non-threatening as possible.

Sloane stares up at him with glossy, storm-cloud eyes and the sight makes his chest weigh heavy with shame. He can’t tell if her unshed tears are from embarrassment or a bruised skull. She shakily reaches up and Sebastian can’t blame her hesitation, grasping her hand to hoist her upright. As soon as she is standing, her gaze darts away, and before he can ask if she’s alright he is being pushed away by another flash of yellow as Adelaide arrives to help.

“That is enough for today,” Professor Hecat announces, dismissing the class with a wave of her hand. “Please continue to review and practice your defensive spells without hurting each other.”

Sebastian frowns and looks down at his right hand, flexing his fingers as they tingle. He lingers, eavesdropping as Hecat offers some encouragement to Sloane before suggesting that Adelaide take her to the hospital wing for a quick exam.

“You as well, Mr. Prewett,” she says, just before the Gryffindor wobbles out of the classroom. He groans, rubbing his temple as Cressida happily offers to escort him. Just as Sebastian moves to leave as well, Professor Hecat clears her throat. “Mr. Sallow.”

He stops and slowly turns, attempting to charm the professor with a cheeky smile. She isn’t impressed, hands on her hips as she shakes her head. Perhaps one day, he won’t be such a disappointment.

“Yes, Professor?” he inquires, feigning innocence. Hecat rolls her eyes, unimpressed.

“I have a request for you,” she starts, clasping her hands. “It appears our newest student could use some help with her studies. Are you familiar with Miss Sloane outside of class?”

Sebastian wonders if Hecat is making the assumption based on his chivalrous behavior. He lifts a shoulder in a noncommittal shrug. “Not really,” he answers, even though the real answer is not at all.

“No matter,” she dismisses his response. “Perhaps you’d be willing to invite her to that little dueling club you think is a secret from the staff.”

“What?” he says, in disbelief, shaking his. “You have to actually be good at dueling to join Crossed Wands.”

“So that is what you call it,” Professor Hecat’s sly smile makes Sebastian nervous. “But that is exactly my point, Mr. Sallow. Miss Sloane needs to catch up with the rest of her peers, and what better way to accomplish that than to be tutored by the best?”

Sebastian should be flattered by the compliment, but he remains reluctant to agree. “Might I think about it?” he asks, unsure if even he has the time to attend Brattleby’s club, let alone take Sloane under his wing. Maybe he can set her up with Onai—she’s talented enough, and the two are more likely to get along.

“So,” he drags the word out in an attempt to change the subject, rocking back and forth on his heels. “Am I—”

“Still in trouble?” Professor Hecat finishes, and he swears she looks amused by the situation. “Yes.”

“But—”

“I warned you about using unsanctioned spells in my classroom, Mr. Sallow,” she reminds and he sighs, knowing she is right. “Not to worry, as soon as his head clears, Mr. Prewett will be spending the next several days organizing and repairing the books he damaged.”

It’s never been easy for Sebastian to apologize. “I—” he swallows thickly. “I’m sorry, Professor Hecat.”

She nods curtly. “Good. Now, run along. I’ll let Professor Binns know to expect you this evening.”

Detention—Sebastian’s mood worsens as he finally leaves the classroom. He should’ve gone to breakfast.

|_ | _ | _ | _|

After devouring his evening meal in the great hall, Sebastian begrudgingly makes his way to the dungeons, but instead of returning to the Slytherin common room for the evening, he diverts toward the familiar door at the end of a long hall. The detention chamber is a dark, cramped room, full of old desks and oddities from a bygone era. He eyes the stockade in the corner and shivers, grateful he didn’t attend Hogwarts when the torture of students was permitted.

Sebastian is surprised to see Professor Weasley instead of the ghostly Binns, and she greets him with a cordial smile, even as she confiscates his wand. It’s only for the next few hours, but the separation creates an uncomfortable knot in his chest. He sighs, flopping down into the least dusty bench, unceremoniously dropping his satchel on the desk in front of him. He waits to see if anyone else enters the room, but of course, he’s the only one with detention this evening. The school year has only just begun—this must be a new record.

He glances at the clock—three hours until curfew. Easy enough.

For the first hour, he finally finishes his assignment for Ancient Runes, pleased with the results. Next, he reads through an old tome, carefully moving the pages so they don’t turn to dust. Most of the text is in Sanskrit, which even Sebastian cannot begin to fathom how to translate. Still, there is much to be gleaned from the diagrams and drawings of ancient rituals depicting what he can only guess is dark magic.

“Mr. Sallow.”

Sebastian flinches, momentarily worried he’ll be caught with such an illicit book. He pretends to be taking notes as if it is just another one of his many coursebooks, anxiously glancing up as Professor Weasley stands to approach.

“I have a request for you,” she says and he nearly tells the professor to queue up behind Hecat. Instead, he neatly folds his hands over the tome in a poor attempt to disguise its true contents.

“What kind of request?” he asks, already suspicious.

Professor Weasley flashes another polite smile. “This concerns our newest student—”

“Sloane?” he confirms with a raised eyebrow. It has to be a coincidence.

“Why, yes,” the Deputy Headmistress replies. “You share many classes—are you—”

“Not at all,” Sebastian interrupts, biting his tongue when her expression falters. “I mean…” he taps his fingers against the desk. He and Sloane are in a lot of the same classes, but he isn’t interested in anything more. Especially after today’s events, he is likely a jerk to be avoided at all costs.

“I’d like you to escort Miss Sloane to Hogsmeade tomorrow afternoon,” she explains, ignoring his distressed state. “And before you worry about your classes, I have already sent an owl excusing your absence.”

Sebastian frowns. Why is he, out of all the students in the school, suddenly being trusted with such responsibility? “Are you certain?”

Professor Weasley nods.

“Is this punishment?” he asks next.

“No, do you think it is punishment?”

Sebastian doesn’t answer.

“You need a distraction, Mr. Sallow,” she sighs, and he realizes very quickly she—and perhaps the other professors—mean to keep him busy so that he stays out of trouble in his endeavor to cure Anne. Solomon—he grumbles to himself, knowing his uncle has something to do with this.

“You know the area, and understand how important it is to avoid danger,” Professor Weasley continues. “Victor Rookwood may be terrorizing the Highlands, but Hogwarts and the Hogsmeade village will be safe.”

Sebastian still isn’t convinced but doesn’t bother with arguing. He relents with a small nod, lips pursed in a straight line. “Fine.”

“I’ll have you know, Mr. Sallow,” the Headmistress speaks in a softer, kinder tone. “Despite your penchant for detention, you are one of the few students I can trust to be kind to the young miss.”

Ironic, considering what he’d done that morning. Kindness usually doesn’t result in concussions. Sebastian suddenly finds himself thinking about Sloane’s sad eyes and the sympathy he felt towards her at that moment. Maybe Professor Weasley is right, and he is kind, without even realizing it. His reputation could be worse, but first impressions are everything and he’d already made an utter arse of himself.

Tomorrow, he’d find out for certain.

Comments, likes and reblogs are appreciated 💛

[slythering-snake-boys]

It's Been Awhile Ch. 4

Characters: Sebastian Sallow x Reader/MC

Series Masterlist

Words: 3953

Warnings: fluffy fluff, some OCs, some cockblockers, Leander Slander

Taglist: @cloudroomblog

Sebastian was bouncing his leg as he drank another cup of Pumpkin Juice, brown eyes glued to the entrance. It had already been 20 minutes since he'd arrived and there was still no sign of you. He almost ignored whoever had taken a seat beside him until he heard his name being called. He'd recognise that voice anywhere.

The freckled man turned around in his seat, coming face to face with Ominis. He had grown taller than him and was a little paler than he remembered him, but he seemed to have gained some muscle and looked to be in good health. It felt quite awkward to suddenly be talking after all those years of radio silence. He cleared his throat before smiling tentatively.

"Oh... Hello, Ominis. Haven't seen you in a while."

"Indeed, neither have I. Not that I ever did, mind you." Sebastian guffawed before covering his mouth, seeing Ominis smirk. It reminded them of all those times when they'd gossip and laugh in the hallways between classes. "All jokes aside, how have you been?"

With that, the two of them talked. Tentatively and slightly awkwardly at first, but then they managed to get into a rhythm similar to when they were younger. They joked, laughed and even reminisced.

"I'm sorry for my behaviour at that time, Ominis. Truly." Sebastian said as he looked down into his cup with a sad smile. "You warned me and I'm sorry for not listening to you and MC. But you have to understand that at least in some regard, it was for Anne. I just wanted my twin sister to be back on her feet, healthy and with us." Ominis nodded. He'd also grown up and done a lot of thinking throughout the years, knowing that not everything was only good or only bad. Though he still believed the Dark Arts could push someone to become evil.

"I do understand your reasoning... I just wish you would have looked into other options before even thinking about the Dark Arts. But I understand."

"Thank you..." It was silent for a few seconds before Sebastian gulped. "So, any other news?" They both knew he was itching to ask about Anne. His voice tried to sound nonchalant, but they both knew better.

"Anne's okay, definitely better than before." Sebastian exhaled and deflated in obvious relief. "She's a fighter and she's lucky that the doctor who's monitoring her is well-versed in curses. From her letters, he's definitely helped her more than any other doctor before him." Sebastian nodded, thankful to know Anne was okay, even if she still refused to speak to him.

"Thank you, Ominis. I really appreciate you telling me this." His voice was quiet but sincere. Ominis was silent for a couple of seconds before talking quietly.

"She misses you. Despite everything. Tells me so in every letter." Sebastian only sighed before thanking him again. He missed Anne as well, but he would keep his distance if she wished him to, as much as it hurt him. "So? When are you going to get settled down?" Ominis' words made him almost choke on air before he turned to the blind man beside him.

"What?!" Sebastian almost screeched. He didn't, but his face got as red as a cherry. Ominis smirked, still knowing his best friend well enough to be able to tease him. "What are you talking about?" He almost hissed.

"I may be blind, Sebastian, but I can smell tension and sexual frustration from miles away. And you reek of it. I feel as if I'm back in fifth-year..." Ominis muttered as he shook his head in faux dejection.

"Sod off..." Ominis chuckled while Sebastian felt himself get even redder. It wasn't his fault he was still pining for you even after all those years. You were one of the very few who saw him in some of his most vulnerable moments and continued looking out for him and keeping him as safe as humanly possible, even after you'd stopped hanging out. You had been kinder than most he'd met throughout his life, doing things for others without any ulterior motive or expecting a reward. That's just who you were to him: kind, beautiful and perfect in his mind.

Sebastian glanced at the door just in time to see you walk in, dressed in fresh, clean clothes. You were looking around, somewhat nervous to see so many of your former classmates. Then you were swamped by friends, housemates and even a few current students. People were asking you questions, requesting your autograph, and you looked a little overwhelmed but happy to have so many faces surrounding you, both familiar and new. You were soon dragged to a large table by your friends and encircled by them, with Pumpkin Juice flowing and food appearing in front of you.

Sebastian watched with a fond smile as you stared at the plates filled to the brim with sparkling eyes, obviously hungry. He felt the same and his stomach reminded him so by growling. His cheeks turned rosy in embarrassment and he heard Ominis snicker from beside him before he playfully elbowed him in the ribs, making the blind man laugh a little more. Soon, most of the other seats were occupied and everyone started eating, a cacophony of laughter, chatter and utensils on plates filling the Great Hall.

He talked with Ominis and a few others, both from Slytherin and other Houses, laughing and talking about their current lives as adults. When there was a lull in the conversation, he glanced at you.

You were chewing slowly and looking up at the ceiling. Sebastian followed your gaze and watched as the enchanted ceiling, which was usually covered with floating candles, looked like a beautiful night sky. The twinkling stars and the few drifting clouds were a stark contrast to the depressing weather outside. You rested your chin in the palm of your hand and looked at the enchanted sky dreamily, unaware of his adoring staring or anyone else around you.

"Do you remember what that cluster of stars was called? The ones with the reflection nebulae?" You turned to your right, seeing Amit looking at you with a beaming smile as he ate beside you. You smiled back and hummed, looking up where he was pointing. It was a cluster of blue luminous stars with nebulae around some of them. You'd forgotten how beautiful the night sky could look and how much fun it was to look at it with your telescope.

"The Seven Sisters. I always searched for them when I had some time at night and I was out and about. All thanks to your telescope and your stories since fifth-year." Amit smiled and nodded, happy to know that you were still just as interested in the stars as he was. You continued to talk with him about his experience as a Hogwarts teacher until he got up to go to the restroom, at which point you finally glanced at Sebastian.

He was laughing as he told Ominis in particular about something before those around them also erupted into laughter, clapping and congratulating him. Sebastian laughed and smirked, happy to entertain others with his stories of the experiences he'd had as a Hit Wizard. You smiled fondly, relieved to see him and Ominis back on speaking terms, at least. They'd both grown and matured, enough to realise that they could try to be friends again.

Then he glanced at you and you froze, eyes wide and blinking in surprise at being caught staring before you felt your face and ears getting hotter. He smirked again and subtly winked at you, making you smile shyly before you waved back. A few others at his table looked at you and you quickly turned back to Amit as soon as he returned, asking him a few more questions to take their attention off you. Amit lit up and started speaking excitedly and gesticulating, engaging you in his story almost immediately.

When you'd all finished eating, some went to bed, others went outside to chat there, while a few others elected to linger in the Great Hall and talk some more.

You were left with Poppy, Natty and Imelda at the table, talking and laughing. You could see Sebastian and Ominis still at their own table, talking amongst themselves about something which seemed important.

"So, MC," Poppy's voice made you turn to regard her, "are you going to the Christmas dance with anyone?". She smiled while the other two watched.

"Oh, um, I don't know. I haven't thought about it yet. What about you?"

"I'm going with Samuel Fitzpatrick over there, from Ravenclaw. He asked me soon after it was announced here as well. He's a dragonologist, can you believe it? He's just returned from Finland where he oversaw the controlled breeding of an almost extinct species of dragon. Can't remember its name properly, unfortunately. It's in their native language." She seemed excited and you smiled, congratulating her. Then you looked at Natty who smiled proudly.

"I'm going with Robert Greyfield. He was in Hufflepuff. He told me he's a Lead Investigator, specialised in crimes against Muggles. He's already caught so many and plans on catching even more, especially those who hurt or kill Muggles for sport. We met at work when we had to deal with a few shared cases and when the reunion letter arrived, he sent me an owl to ask me to accompany him as his partner." You did remember Robert a little. Pretty shy guy, but apparently, there was something very brave about him that had attracted Natty. His job seemed to indicate as much. You all turned to Imelda, who only smirked.

"I'm not telling you guys a thing, so you can stop trying by now."

"Did anyone here ask you?" You asked.

"Or did you bring someone?" Poppy chimed in.

"You're going by yourself, right?" Natty asked as well, crossing her arms over her chest and smiling knowingly. Imelda said nothing and showed no reaction, the same infuriating grin still on her face.

"Not gonna work, I'm afraid." You blew a raspberry as you looked away in feigned frustration, making them laugh. "You'll see tomorrow." You three nodded at her words before you took a grape from one of the plates that still remained on the table. "Now, back to our star of the night." The three of them looked at you with grins and you swallowed the grape whole, gulping loudly and almost feeling like choking.

"I don't know, I told you. No one's asked me and I didn't ask anyone either..." You looked away, pouting a little. Now that you said it, it seemed almost pathetic.

"No one? Really? Cause I've had plenty of guys asking me if you were going with anyone." Imelda said with a wide smirk.

"Me, too."

"Same here. You're really popular and a lot of people would like to ask you to be their partner." Natty explained after Poppy, making you flush in embarrassment at being at the centre of attention...again.

You could remember all the love letters you'd received, especially after your fights with the poachers, Ashwinders and Ranrok's Loyalists. And even more started pouring in after the fights with Rookwood, Harlow and Ranrok. A few of your so-called admirers had sent Howlers and someone even sent you your favourite toffees laced with Amortentia. Luckily, you'd found it suspicious that they were just waiting for you on your bed after classes and decided not to eat them. Professor Sharp had helped you get rid of them and also discovered who had done it, having them properly punished for trying something so dangerous.

"They're all cowards if they don't have the guts to ask you directly, in my opinion." You chuckled at Imelda's jab towards your suitors. "Anyway, do you want to go alone? Or are you waiting for a certain Slytherin to make his move?" You blushed and looked down, eating another few grapes, just so you didn't have to answer anymore. Imelda smirked, glancing at Sebastian before resuming her staring at you.

"Imelda, stop being mean to her. Whether she wants to go with someone or not, it's her business. Stop pestering her." Poppy defended you, though she didn't mean it in a bad way towards Imelda. After all, they all knew of your past relationship with Sebastian but didn't know why you'd broken up. You had only told them that you had decided he was too immature then and you both had to grow up properly before attempting to be together again. But they could also see the way you were both looking at each other longingly when you knew the other wasn't looking.

"You don't have to go with anyone for that matter. We'll all be there." Natty squeezed your shoulder sympathetically.

"Yes, we'll probably ditch the guys at some point just so we can spend time together anyway." Poppy's words made you laugh and you nodded.

"If Imelda doesn't go with anyone, you can go with her."

"Nu-uh! Worst case scenario, Leander's going to ask her to go with him. Or any of the other cowards." Imelda then turned to you, looking a bit disgusted at what she'd just said. "No offence. But they've been eyeing you almost the entire night." You visibly winced, not wanting someone to go with you out of pity, but refusing to go with someone you had no interest in either. Especially Leander, who you just...couldn't really stand.

"Well, whatever, I guess we'll see tomorrow." You got up and stretched. "I'm beat. I'll see you guys in the morning, okay? Good night." The girls wished you good night as well before you left the Great Hall. You glanced at Sebastian, wanting to wish him a good night, but he was engaged in a deep conversation with Ominis and another classmate who'd joined them, so you decided to leave.

You bid a few of your former classmates good night as you passed by them before taking the stairs. You were a long way from the seventh floor. You could use Floo Powder to get there faster... But you felt like exercising a little to think was necessary. It was empty for the most part and quiet, which was perfect as you walked without even thinking, already knowing the way by heart.

"MC!" Just before you reached the second floor, a voice caught your attention. You turned around, only to see Sebastian running up to you. He stopped two steps below you, reaching your height as he smiled at you, looking just the slightest bit nervous and out of breath. "Are you turning in for the night already?"

"Yes, I'm really tired. I've had too much to talk about tonight and it's drained me completely. Sorry for not wishing you good night, but I saw you were talking and didn't want to disturb you." He chuckled along with you and shook his head, then looked at you.

"You can always come over and 'disturb' me. I don't mind, you know?" You chuckled and nodded, seeing him smile up at you warmly.

After a few seconds of silence and with a barely noticeable puff of his chest, Sebastian gathered the courage to slowly climb the other two steps, now standing right in front of you. There was a soft, but expectant smile on your face as you looked up at his form towering over you. Then, his hand went to the stone banister, the tips of his fingers nudging closer to your own. Your fingers subconsciously twitched, eager to feel more of his skin. You could feel the warmth he exuded and you only wanted to come closer.

"Can I...tire you out just a bit more by asking...if you'd do me the honour of accompanying me to the dance tomorrow night?" He asked in a quiet voice, his words for your ears only. You nodded eagerly and gave him a beaming smile while your eyes crinkled. Merlin, he loved that smile of yours - the one he knew meant you were genuinely happy about something. He hoped it was because of him.

"I'd love that." He grinned back, appearing cocky thanks to your answer. But you both knew he was just trying to mask his happiness so he wouldn't appear too eager - just in case anyone saw or heard you two. After all, he rarely wanted to appear vulnerable.

Your eyes went to his lips before going back to his brown eyes almost immediately, while his shamelessly remained glued to your mouth for a second longer. Then they almost reluctantly returned to gaze into yours, looking down at you through his long lashes as if contemplating if his next move was the right one. Sebastian finally decided on letting his hand cover yours completely before bending down a bit to be closer to your eye level. You lifted your head, lips parting and eager to touch his-

"If it isn't Sebastian Sallow and his little friend!" Sebastian allowed his body to dejectedly slump a little and hung his head, letting it thump gently against your shoulder. Your free hand went to his broad back, comfortingly rubbing it. He sighed loudly as you chuckled at his dramatic antics before looking up.

"Hi, Peeves. Haven't seen you in a long time." You said, hoping he'll leave the two of you alone for the night. The poltergeist was watching the two of you with a wide grin as he floated above.

"Little Sallowy loveeees to kiss MC! Mwah mwah!" Sebastian was shaking with impending anger already, from being interrupted for the third time that night, and turned around, getting his wand out. First Imelda, then Deek, now Peeves... He was close to ripping his hair out in clear frustration.

Peeves laughed and did cartwheels in the air, laughing madly. Sebastian still hadn't forgotten about the moment in the Library during your fifth-year when the mischievous poltergeist had ratted you out to Madam Scribner. Sebastian had gladly taken the fall for you then, opting to insist on having come alone since he knew how to deal with the old librarian. But now he was ready to get his revenge.

"Peeves, you damn-" Sebastian's stance was graceful as his hand moved, moments away from casting a spell. Your eyes widened, knowing that it would only serve to provoke Peeves even further.

"Sebastian, don't-"

"Glacius!" The spell missed and went right by Peeves, who only flew around like a maniac during a sugar rush while laughing loudly. Sebastian gritted his teeth, feeling you trying to calm him down. It might've worked, had Peeves not started getting even more on his nerves by taunting him.

"Ha! Can't catch me! Peevesy is too fast for you! Sloooooooow coach! Sloooooooow coach!" He tried again to hit the mischievous poltergeist with another spell, but was unable to as Peeves kept evading them or turned invisible. Sebastian was truly getting pissed off at the way the universe was getting in the way of him kissing you already, now apparently finding it hilarious to throw Peeves into the mix. Because why not, apparently?

"I swear to Merlin, Peeves, I'm gonna get the Bloody Baron if you don't come here!"

"Oooh, I'm so scared! You shouldn't even if you dared!" You could almost feel the tension rising. Peeves was about to do something to anger Sebastian even more and you knew you had to intervene.

"Hey, Peeves!" The poltergeist looked at you, ready to make you his target, before Sebastian got in front of you protectively, wand aimed at the offending poltergeist. Your head popped from behind Sebastian's shoulder, still looking up to make Peeves pay attention to you. "Did you know Leander is here as well? Heard him saying he wasn't scared of you anymore! Was bragging to everyone about it!" You saw Peeves' grin grow wider and more mischievous.

"Prewett is a scaredy cat! Peevesy will have to prove him that!" He disappeared through one of the staircases with a lasting burst of maniacal laughter and you both breathed a sigh of relief. Sebastian turned to you with a smirk as he put his wand back in his pocket.

"Leander said that?" You smiled nervously, feeling just the slightest bit bad.

"Maybe not..."

"You're such a bad girl, making Peeves go after Prewett... I expected better than that from you, MC." He continued smirking as he teased you and you felt your entire body flush, though you couldn't help smiling. Your hands flew to your face, covering it and groaning quietly, despite little giggles getting out. Sebastian chuckled before taking your hands off your face, holding them in his own. He was proud of your quick thinking. And it was even better that the infamous poltergeist's target would be someone neither of you really liked, for somewhat different reasons.

"I learned being like this from you, remember? You bad influence..." Sebastian chuckled and nodded in approval, feeling his chest warm up from your little jab at him.

"Fine, it's all my fault, I taught you how to be a rule-breaker. Happy?" You hummed, smiling when he pressed your hands to his lips to leave a few featherlight kisses. You gulped as his eyes stared into yours the whole time, the corner of his mouth going up in a knowing smile.

"Can you kiss me like that, too?" You asked quietly, feeling bold for a second. Maybe it was because you were tired or maybe you were sick of all this tension between the two of you. But you quickly realised what you'd said and went to retract your words when you saw Sebastian grin and nod. He surprised you when he let go of your hands to cup your cheeks instead. His thumbs swiped your cheekbones tenderly and you watched him, hands coming up to hold onto his wrists lightly.

"Do you really want me to?"

"I do... Do you?" With a twitch from the corner of his lips that made him smile even more, he leaned down and finally pressed his lips to yours hotly. It was almost as if he just didn't care anymore if there was anyone else around. He just wanted you. So badly.

You closed your eyes, enjoying the familiar feelings that seemed to rush in at the contact. You tried to focus on the good ones, coming closer to Sebastian as he did the same. He pushed you carefully until your lower back touched the stone banister and his hips kept you trapped there. One of his hands went to your hip, squeezing it while you pulled on his blazer to get him to lean down more. Your other hand went to the back of his head and played with the short strands of hair there, feeling how hot his skin was. Just as he was about to let his hands and lips indulge in your body some more, you both heard a high-pitched scream that made you two pull away and turn towards the source.

You saw Leander running away, with Peeves throwing what looked like juggling clubs at him. You felt bad, knowing it was because of you, although Sebastian only started laughing. But he stopped when Leander continued running straight towards the two of you, screaming for help (despite being in no real danger, except maybe a bruise or two).

Needless to say, you and Sebastian did your best to avoid getting hit by Peeves' clubs but had to eventually part ways so Peeves would have to choose only one of you three to pursue. Luckily, it was still Leander. You mentally apologised for what you'd done to him.

[bloofinntoona]

First of all, I don't owe anyone shit for liking Prewett.

But if you are curious, he's that funny mix of constant failure putting on a mask of bravado in an attempt to fit into his house. I never took offense at him taking a bite at Slytherin house nor Sebastian, because I can easily see him potentially slandering all the houses if he lost constantly to a student from there. He's all bark and no bite. And that's the mark of pure failure for any bully.

Leander's just really insecure at being average to below average at anything he does. But he's never cheated at any game from what I remember. He just fails. Fair and square. Over and over. And you know what? I respect that. I'd just stop playing if I kept failing as much as he does.

Far as I see, he's puffing himself up like a porcupine would. I've seen this guy fall off his broom attempting to get on it. He practically admits to you he sucks if you win against him in Summoner's Court and rebuff his latest attempt at masking his insecurity. I can't slander him. He does it for me without being asking to do so. And holy hell it's so funny.

Most importantly, so long as he isn't smarting at you winning against him, he's a rather decent person who I can see caring for people and even coming to their aid even if it means he gets his ass kicked. Even if he dies for it. And that might be why he was sorted into Gryffindor, despite his constant cringe failing. Man desperately needs to find confidence in himself so he can finally put the dumb bravado mask down. Prewett just suffers the same issue most minor characters have in Hogwarts Legacy: not enough screen time or care for a character arc.

I see his potential for a character arc, just as I wish we could optionally spend more time with other characters like Nerida Roberts and *gasp* Everett Clopton. We just weren't given that time and care Sebastian, Natty, and Poppy got with their quest lines.

I like Leander Prewett and love both his and other minor characters' potential with what little the game gives on them. You will never change my mind on this.

Thanks for sending this long explanation! Honestly it’s all valid. Actually it’s beyond impressive to see you stand your ground since a lot of people in the fandom (including me ngl) are not a big fan of the character.

PERSONALLY, I enjoy my Slytherin play through the most and I really like Sebastian, so I automatically not enjoy being around Leander in the game.

I 100% agree that the characters in the game are gold mines of stories, especially knowing that us, as a player, want to form connection with our fellow student. But it probably would take the game devs YEARS to build them *cough* RDR2 *cough*

Like in the beginning I was sooo annoyed with Imelda, but I feel like at the end you get this particular dialogue that alludes a fun competitive friendship with her that made her character likable for me. But I have yet seen that with Prewett.

I wish someday in the future they’ll come out with a dlc covering the “”””side”””” characters since it’ll be so fun to get to know them more.

Power on, anon, and I’m not slandering you (and others) who like him. I genuinely wanted to pick your brains. Thanks again for answering! 🖤

[underthenightskydreamsneverdie]

Introduce Yourself

Thank you @pugsnotdrugs92 for tagging me 💜😚

My MC is named Aldora Stone, and aside from the name and her purple hair she's just like me, a proud Hufflepuff 🦡💛 She is an American muggle born, her parents jobs move them to London when she was eight.

Now on to me! *Evil laughter*

Favorite Character? I feel like this is obvious, but, Sebastian Sallow has my entire heart and I'll never ask for it back.💚 Fun fact: I played the game on my boyfriends Xbox (which he lovingly let me borrow for an entire month) So naturally I started playing the moment he got it hooked up to my tv. He sat next to me the first time I saw Sebastian, and laughed when I said "He's my new Hogwarts boyfriend" after kicking Sebastian's butt in the duel. He later confessed he knew I would say that, and was only a tiny bit worried I would leave him for a fictional video game character because I talked about him so much. And now we're here. He 100% supports me writing smutty filth about Sebastian because 1.) he's amazing 2.) he knows he's my real life Sebastian, and 3.) he knows that I base 90% of my version of Sebastian off of him.

Least Favorite Character? I want to say Leander, but Everett is starting to surpass him as my least fav these days. But I will always be down for some Leander Slander. ALWAYS.

Favorite Professor? Hecat, she's a badass babe and I wish we could have more time with her.

Least Favorite Professor? I'm going to say Sharp, purely because I feel they could have done so much more with his class and he's so distant with us. He could have been a great side mentor for MC.

Favorite Questline? I'm just going with Sebastians questline because it was nice to see his story progress, but also because I giggled like a moron whenever I was around him, even when he was being a buttface.

Least Favorite Questline? Probably the Dedalian Keys. Just give me the super cool robe, I don't want to work for it! Who do I have to kill to make this happen??

Favorite Beast? I love the Fwoopers, they're so precious and beautiful, but then so are the Jobberknolls, and the Phoenix. I have a weak spot for the birds, I guess.

Least Favorite Beast? Giant purple toads. I absolutely hate toads and frogs. They are my oldest fear and they make apparencies in all of my nightmares.

Favorite Spell? Diffindo! I love slicing my enemies to bits from 50 paces away. That sounded super violent, and I liked it. I also love using Bombarda when I'm right in front of someone...

Least Favorite Spell? I'm gonna go with Descendo because it wasn't violent enough for my taste. None of those flip, slam, push spells were IMO.

Alrighty then, that was fun! Hopefully you guys don't think I'm crazy now 😳🤪

Tagging: @freesiriusblack , @accioquill , @roohuh , @cranetreegang

[firstumcschenectady]

“The Merciful” based on 1 John 3:1-3 and Matthew 5:1-12

There is a timelessness to All Saints Sunday, similar to the spacelessness to World Communion Sunday.  On World Communion Sunday, as the Table of Christ feeds people around the whole world, we are able to connect to our siblings in faith without distance separating us.  On All Saints day we connect to those who went on before us, blessed us, and entered the great cloud of witnesses.  I often think of the great cloud of witnesses as being not just around us, but under us – they are the ones on whose shoulders we stand.  

Some of the saints we knew well, some of their names will be read today, some of them predated us by too many years for us to know them by name, and yet they form the great cloud of witnesses.  This reminds us, as well, that we are here only for a brief period of time in the work of the church.  Someday, we too, will be part of the cloud.  The generations march ever onward.  The cloud will someday include us, and those who aren't even here yet!  The generations march ever onward.  Today is a day of timelessness.

It is also a day of timelessness in that grief slows down time, and time can feel relentless.  On All Saints Day we don't JUST remember those who went on before us, and take a moment to acknowledge them, we also notice the heartbreak of grief and attend to each other in our heartbreak.  While it is wonderful to have a great cloud of witnesses around us, most of us would rather have those we love right here with us!  We are thankful to God for their lives, but usually we really wish we were able to share more time with them!

There is a deep holiness to the All Saints celebration, deep enough that there is mystery in it as well.  In seeking to be faithful to the lives of the Saints, the lectionary has given us rather mysterious text as well.  It seems simple, until you try to make sense of it! Here are the useful bits I've learned about these so called Beatitudes:

The verbs really matter.

A bunch of the individual “blessings” are quotes from the Hebrew Bible.

A lot of explanations exist to solve seeming contradictions

I'm gonna explain each.  First of all, the verbs.  Those who speak Greek say that a whole lot of effort is made into having the verbs be in the form they're in.  Namely, that the statements say blessed ARE, but then indicate a future reality (mostly).  Furthermore, they aren't commandments, they are stated as facts.  Finally, according to Feasting on the Word, “In Psalm 1 the Hebrew word translated in our English text by our word 'blessing' is the word 'ashar, which means in its literal sense 'to find the right road'. … This is the meaning of 'ashar in the nine uses of 'blessed'” in the Beatitudes.”1 That means that these mean something like “You are on the right road when you are poor in spirit.”2 Or, perhaps, “You who are merciful are on the right road, you will receive mercy.”  So each line says “this group of people is on the right road – and this is where it will lead them in the future.”  These aren't particularly normal verb constructions, which is why they're worth mentioning.

Now, the Jesus Seminar thinks there is evidence to suggest that Jesus likely said 4 of these blessings – because they show up in Luke and Thomas.  Those are: the poor in Spirit, those who grieve, those who hunger and thirst (for righteousness), and those who are persecuted. They think Matthew filled in the rest as a way to uphold the early Christian Community.3 In both cases, the blessings have striking Hebrew Bible roots.  

First off, this text seems to be a reworking of Psalm 1, that being a Psalm that talks about blessed people rather extensively (in the “to find the right road” meaning).  Regarding comfort to mourners, which the Jesus Seminar thinks goes back to Jesus, that sounds a whole lot like Isaiah 61:1-3, “The spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me; he has sent me to bring good news to the oppressed, to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and release to the prisoners; to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to provide for those who mourn in Zion—to give them a garland instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the mantle of praise instead of a faint spirit.”  Regarding meek inheriting, which the Jesus Seminar thinks Matthew created,  we hear it in Psalm 37:11, “But the meek shall inherit the land, and delight in abundant prosperity.”

As a whole, the lists of qualities of people sound like lists in the Hebrew Bible that relate to who can enter the temple!  There are moral standards being held here, and they reflect the tradition they grow from.  For example,

Psalm 15:1-5

1 O Lord, who may abide in your tent?    Who may dwell on your holy hill?  2 Those who walk blamelessly, and do what is right,    and speak the truth from their heart;  3 who do not slander with their tongue,    and do no evil to their friends,    nor take up a reproach against their neighbours;  4 in whose eyes the wicked are despised,    but who honour those who fear the Lord; who stand by their oath even to their hurt;  5 who do not lend money at interest,    and do not take a bribe against the innocent.  Those who do these things shall never be moved.

Psalm 24:3-6 does the same.  So, Jesus is REWORKING, or REMOLDING his own tradition, and then Matthew is doing the same.   Given those realities, the really interesting pieces may be in what finally gets included and excluded?  Why were the poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, and those who are persecuted for righteousness the groups of people who fit?  Is it because things were hard for peasants and things were hard for early Christians?  Or is there something deeper?  (I don't know, I'm just wondering.)

Finally, people have done a lot of work to try to understand this passage, as it is one of the best known parts of the Bible while being rather obscure.  The New Interpreter's Bible has points out, “Peacemakers does not connote a passive attitude, but positive actions for reconciliation.”4 (180, NIB)  Marcus Borg explains some of the others:

“'Poor in spirit' almost certainly does not refer to well-to-do people who are nevertheless spiritually poor, but to people whose material poverty has broken their spirit.  Moreover, 'righteousness' in the Bible and Matthew does not mean personal rectitude, as it most often does in modern English, but justice.  'Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness'  likely means 'those who hunger and thirst for justice.'  The meaning of Mathew's wording is thus similar and perhaps identical to what we find in Luke, for it is the poor and hungry who yearn for justice. In short, like the Lord's Prayer, the Beatitudes confirm that the kingdom of God is both religious and political: it is God's kingdom, and it is a kingdom on earth that involves a transformation of life for the poor and hungry.”5

Perhaps that's why these groups were included!  Taken together, the work of scholars establishes that these are meaningful phrases that fit into the rest of Jesus' teaching, and that they aren't meant to just be a mystery!

So, these really are powerful teachings.  As one scholar puts it, “In none of the beatitudes is advice being offered for getting along in this world, where mercy is more likely to be regarded as a sign of weakness than to be rewarded in kind.”6 “Christianity is not a scheme to reduce stress, lose wight, advance one’s career, or preserve one from illness.  Christian faith, instead, is a way of living based on the firm and sure hope that meekness is the way of God, that righteousness and peace will finally prevail, and that God’s future will be a time of mercy and not cruelty.”7 The Beatitudes continue in the tradition of differentiating the ways of God – justice, righteousness, peace, well-being for all – with the ways of the world.  The values the Beatitudes celebrate are not at all the ones the world seeks, but they are the ones that build the kin-dom.

On All Saints we remember those who went on before us, and we remember the ways that their lives followed God's ways.  On All Saints we remember that they have shown us the right road, and that in doing so they made it easier for us to travel it.  We also remember that the roads that we choose matter: they matter for the kin-dom itself, and they matter for those who will come after us.  

It is a good road, this one that Jesus describes, it is a very different road than others we could also choose to walk.  It is a good thing we have models who have walked the road ahead of us – and continue to walk it with us as the great cloud of witnesses.  Amen  

-- 

1Earl F. Palmer “Pastoral Perspective on Matthew 5:1-12” in Feasting on the World Year A Volume 4, David L. Bartlett and Barbara Brown Taylor, editors (Westminster John Knox Press: Louisville, KY, 2011) 238.

2Palmer, 238.

3Robert W. Funk, Roy W Hoover, and The Jesus Seminar, The Five Gospels: The Search for the Autthentic Words of Jesus (HarperOneUSA, 1993), page 138.

4M. Eugene Boring, New Interpreter's Bible Volume VII: Matthew Leander E. Keck editorial board convener (Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1995), page 180.

5Marcus Borg, Jesus: The Life, Teachings, and Relevance of a Religious Revolutionary (HarperOne: 2015), 190-191.

6Boring, 179.

7Boring, 181.

Rev. Sara E. Baron

First United Methodist Church of Schenectady

603 State St. Schenectady, NY 12305

Pronouns: she/her/hers

http://fumcschenectady.org/

https://www.facebook.com/FUMCSchenectady